Three New Champions Named in the 2012 UCI Masters Cyclocross World Championships – Women 55-59/60-65/65+: UPDATED Photos, Report, Results

Wells-Hamilton, Lockhart and Savary. ©Brian Nelson

For full coverage, schedules and information on the 2012 UCI Master’s Cyclocross World Championships in Louisville, Kentucky visit our 2012 Masters Cyclocross World Championships homepage.

by Grant Berry

LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY — As the sun began to warm up the air and thaw the course, conditions were starting to change. Kathy Sarvary (USA) would grab the holeshot in the next race of the day and was followed closely by Bridget Zolman (USA) and Diane Ostenso (USA).

“My coach told me to get the holeshot, and control the pace so that I had first choice on what line to take and didn’t have to follow anyone and so I could hopefully stay out of trouble,” Sarvary explained.

Elizabeth Heller (USA) looked to have a slow start, but half way through the first lap she was making up ground quickly and was about to make contact with Sarvary when she crashed heavily in the corner leading into the sand pit. She then entered the pit to change machines, but had another miscue and rode by her waiting crew.

“I had some issues in the pits after I crashed, as it is my first UCI race and only the second time I have ever had to change bikes. Live and learn I guess!”

With two laps to, Sarvary was clearly in control, and riding comfortably ahead of Heller and Ostenso. Ostenso was trying to make contact, but dangled just a few seconds off Heller’s wheel. She was riding smoothly, and was showing big determination to grab the silver winning position but would run out of time. Sarvary won in dominating fashion, as the remaining podium spots went to Heller and Ostenso.

Sarvary was very pleased with her ride, and also with the conditions: “It was really tough out there; but an awesome course for sure. There was mud, ice, ruts and lots of challenges. This course really is what a World’s course should be; a challenge.”

Regarding the venue at Eva Bandman Park, Sarvary had this to say: “The course here is good; but the venue and the infrastructure need some work. I am glad they had Master’s Worlds here first as it is a great way for them to cut their teeth and work out the bugs before bringing the Elites here. There is some work to be done.”

Karen Wells-Hamilton (USA) won the women’s 60-64 race, and Julie Lockhart added another World Championship title to her previous wins by taking the women’s 65+ victory.

Rider diaries, videos, photos, reports and all things veldrijden will be pouring in this weekend for the  2012 UCI Master’s Cyclocross World Championships in Louisville, Kentucky. To see them all, visit our 2012 Masters Cyclocross World Championships homepage.

Photos — Brian Nelson

Full Results:

55-59:

60-64:

65+: