While much of the active world is unwinding after the holiday season or driving to the ski slopes for some powder runs, many bicycling enthusiasts will be heading to Longmont, Colorado for the Altitude Adjustment Cross race on January 4th and 5th. While the road cyclists of the summer relax and recharge during the winter months, cyclocross racers are at the peak of their busy race season.
With the Cyclocross National Championships scheduled January 8th – 12th in Boulder, the timing of Altitude Adjustment is perfect for fine-tuning of fitness for the Colorado-based racers. It also offers a great way for out of town visitors to get used to the almost mile-high altitude of Boulder County. The two days of racing also serve as a last chance for competitors to gain all-important ranking points in advance of Nationals.
Watts Marketing of Longmont, who also produces the two nationally recognized events, Clif Bar CrossVegas and Gateway Cross Cup, is producing Altitude Adjustment Cross. Race Director Brook Watts commented, “I wanted to bring some racing to Longmont to show the world that despite the damage we sustained in the September floods our town is doing well and welcomes visitors.”
The two days of cyclocross racing will be a first for Sandstone Ranch Park located just a couple of miles east of Longmont on Highway 119. The multi-sports facility offers a range of terrain from fast flat sections, uphill runs and a punchy climb that will test the racers’ legs, with sweeping views of the 14,000-foot Longs Peak. Watts described the course as, “another example that even an innocent soccer complex can create a fun, flowy course that will delight racers and spectators alike.”
In addition to the racing, participants and spectators can enjoy Oskar Blues beers in the Can’d Aid Beer Garden; with proceeds benefiting Colorado flood relief efforts. The Oskar Blues Bone Wagon will be on-site at the race daily beginning at lunchtime offering a great selection of foods.
To add to the fun, there will be Attitude Adjustment parties at CyclHOPS Bike Cantina in Longmont each night. For complete party details follow @AltitudeCross on Twitter.
Categories of racing are available for all ages and abilities. Complete information is available at www.altitudeadjustmentcross.com. Online registration is open through January 2nd at BikeReg.com.
First time spectators will be certain to be impressed by the thrill of cyclocross racing in their own backyard. Local organizations and individuals interested in sponsorships or volunteering are welcome: there’s always a need for help in advance of the race and race day. Please contact [email protected].
Sponsors include Oskar Blues Brewery, The Plaza Event Center, The City of Longmont and 303 Cycling News.
