Cyclocross Returns to Rocky Hill

For the third straight year, Cyclocross has returned to Elm Ridge Park on Tuesday nights.

Similar to steeplechase, Cyclocross is becoming very popular in the United States and has gained a number of new fans since Elm Ridge Park began hosting races in 2009.

The bicycles used for Cyclocross are specially built and a cross between a traditional road bike and mountain bike. Courses are fixed across a variety of terrain and designed to test the rider’s bike handling skills.

Riders are frequently required to dismount from their bikes and navigate obstacles known as hurdles. The races are intense affairs that can last for up to 45 minutes with little rest.

Elm Ridge Park’s Cyclocross season officially began on Sept. 13. The park hosts a and b division races, which are for seasoned professional riders, beginners and children. The cyclists competed in a course set up in the fields around Veterans Memorial Amphitheater with the course occasionally crossing into the woods.   

The top racers compete in the a division where Jesse Quagliaroli opened the season with the victory. Philip Gartlant finished second and Gabe Jiran finished third. Overall, there were 70 competitors between the three divisions.

For rider Cliff Kenyor, the season opener was a great introduction to the sport.

"This was my first time riding cycleocross, and I thought it was a great hybrid,” he said. “The course had a mix of everything with the tight corners, the flats, and the mud. I plan on riding cycleocross as much as I can.”

Cyclocross at Elm Ridge Park will be held every Tuesday at 6 p.m. sharp and is expected to end sometime in December. The races are open to all residents of Rocky Hill and surrounding towns.

All proceeds from the events will go to the Rocky Hill Dog Park fund. The races have raised over $6,000 since first being held.

For more information, contact cross4k9@cox.net for any additional information.