2010 Kansas Track Championships
’Crossers around the country spend the offseason searching for a way to fill the void. Many settle for the obvious outlets of road and mountain bike racing. Some put the recliner within reach of the fridge and settle in for a well-deserved rest. But for others, these pursuits do not provide the same adrenaline rush that the flurry of the ’cross races in the winter do. These hardy souls, clustered in small groups across the country, find empty fields, lay out a simple oval and have at it. Welcome to grass track.
Part ’cross insanity, part velodrome intensity, grass track is a niche within a niche within a niche. Pushing both bike and rider to the limits of handling, traction and oxygen-debt, grass track is a thrill many have never conceived of and fewer have tried. Tearing around a flat, grassy oval isn’t for everyone, but if your anywhere near Kansas this weekend, you can find out if it’s for you.Grass Velodrome Championship for Kansas
The Kansas track racing championships will be held on a new grass bicycle velodrome on Saturday July 24th, 2010. The Kansas City area has a rich history of bicycle track racing, but lack of facilities in recent years prompted area riders to construct a venue for 2009 in Shawnee and an improved site for the 2010 Championships. The 333-meter track is located just west of Lawrence, Kansas, on the property of cycling enthusiast Steve Schwada. The facility has been groomed and prepared by a group of local racing enthusiasts led by Bill Anderson and Mark Thomas.
Competition begins at 11 a.m., with races in a variety of categories for men, women and Juniors. Races include 500 and 1000m individual time trials and a scratch race. Medals will be awarded to the top three (Kansas) winners in each division with a valid racing license. Out-of-state winners will receive merchandise awards. The races are part of the KBAR and KABT competitions.
Two track familiarization/safety sessions will provide riders with an intro to the course and the racing, and give an opportunity to upgrade prior to the championship.
For more information about the competition, go to www.localcycling.com or call Mark Thomas at 913-248-0709.
Everyone involved in the championships would like to thank the sponsors for their support: Anderson Rental, Localcycling.com, Vitoria Tires, Volker Bicycles
2010 Kansas Track Championships
Saturday, July 24th –Lawrence, KS
Hosted by Slimen ünd Grossen Cycling Club
Start Times: First rider starts at 11 AM. Start times will be assigned on a first come-first served basis.
Registration: Race day registration from 9:30 AM until 30 minutes before race start.
Classes: Men and Women Cat 1/2, 3 and 4; Men Cat 5; 5 year age groups from 30-34 to infinity; Juniors All Championships
Fees: All events $20. Entry fee includes $3 USAC insurance and $1 KCA surcharge.
Directions: The venue located on Farmers Turnpike (County road 438) approx 1.5 miles EAST of the K-10 exit on I-70. Farmers Turnpike (438) is North of I-70.
All USAC TRACK rules apply: CPSC approved helmets required. Promoter reserves the right to adjust time & distances, alter or change course, cancel and/or combine categories & prize lists
Important: This is a special event with unique challenges. Be prepared for alterations of the schedule. Stay tuned to localcycling.com for changes/details. HINTS: Big Tires, No brake levers or brakes, fixed gear only. Drop bars for mass start. Check out Volker Bicycles for appropriate equipment help. Must be appropriate category for mass start (see the rule book at www.usacycling.org). Bring water. Portapotties provided.
