Cyclo-cross returns!

As the long hot summer draws to close and road racing events wind down for the year, the cycling calendar turns to cyclo-cross. A very popular discipline among PPYCC riders (including a few parents), the cyclo-cross season starts at Stanmer Park on 6th September Park, just outside Brighton.

Cyclo-cross is racing on drop handlebar bikes with knobbly mud tires on a tight circuit with a variety of surfaces – dirt, tarmac, gravel, grass and mud (from October onwards, there is always mud!). It is amazing fun and available to all ages, from under 8s upwards.

Any bike is fine, as long as it has grippy tires (so no slicks), including mountain and hybrid style bikes. Most cyclocross riders start on flat handlebars before moving onto drop bars (at under 8s level the majority of riders use mountain bikes).

Races local to Brighton are organised by the Challenge Tires London and South East Cyclo-cross League, with a full calendar of races taking place between September and February (including a race at Preston Park on 3rd January). Races are great value at just £4 per event.

You can can sign up for Sunday’s race here. Please note that riders will start the season racing in the category one year ahead of their current category (so second-year under 12 riders will race as first year under 14s, etc). This is to avoid riders moving category mid-season. The entry system will advise you as to the correct category if you make a mistake, so don’t worry if this is confusing.

If you would like any advice on getting your child involved in cyclocross racing, then please speak to any of the club coaches or email the chair. We have a couple of bikes available for loan, including a bike suitable for younger riders.