Attention darkarazzi! Prizes and a part in a group exhibition for those able to capture the excitement of DarkCross.
Winnipeg, MB, September 5, 2012. Like a human-powered steeplechase, the carnival that is cyclocross has held generations of Europeans in thrall and is now one of the fastest growing sports in North America. Not only is it fun to race, but with its rabid, cowbell-toting superfans, it’s also a blast to watch. Last year’s inaugural Dark Cross race was described by one attendee as ”the best cycling event in Manitoba in 20 years, maybe ever,” and this year’s looks set to eclipse it.
Of the many different forms of bike racing, there are plenty who will argue that cyclocross is by far the most photogenic. Professional cyclocross photographer Joe Sales puts it this way: “for me what is great about cross, more than anything is the proximity of the riders to the spectators and the relationship and vibe that develops between them over an hour long race. I love this aspect of cross.”
DarkCross takes that proximity to a whole new level with the Wallace + Wallace Grandstand Run-Up. Throw in the new Qualico Homes Flyover, all-out high-speed racing, some barriers and a rock garden, not to mention the cover of darkness pierced by Christmas lights and bamboo torches, and you have the perfect recipe for some spectacular photos.
We’re inviting you to submit your best pics to Shot in the Dark, the first annual DarkCross photo contest. You don’t have to be a professional – and it doesn’t have to be perfect – it just needs to capture the wickedly fun and unique spirit of the event. Races begin at 5:00PM, with the elite mens race starting at 9:30PM. Directions and more information available at the DarkCross website: http://www.darkcross.ca
To enter the contest, simply submit your photos after the race to [email protected] with the words “Photo Contest” in the subject line. Photos should be submitted as jpeg files, no larger than 2mb.
A Photo Contest Podium featuring the top three finalists will be selected by our expert panel of judges – all pro photographers. The grand prize for the first place photo is a Countour GPS video camera ($300 value), generously donated by the fine folks at Don’s Photo. The second and third place finishers will each receive a $100 gift certificate to Don’s Photo. In addition, all the top photos will be on display at the official DarkCross coffee shop, Parlour Coffee.
Joe Sales will be joined by a couple of other fine professional cycling photographers: Chris Milliman and Kristof Ramon. Check out their websites to see just how awesome cyclocross photography can be.
