ELKTON, MARYLAND — First State Velo and the DCCoD (Delaware Cross Coalition of Delaware) are pleased to host round 10 of the Mid-Atlantic Cyclocross Series on Saturday, November 12 at the Fair Hill Natural Resource Center. Centrally located within the Mid-Atlantic minutes from Newark, Delaware, Fair Hill features famous mountain bike events and races that are part of the Mid-Atlantic Super Series.
Fair Hill represents the best of grass roots racing, with the dedicated cyclists of First State Velo Sport (FSVS) Racing and the DCCoD joining forces to produce this event. Promoter Mike Czupryna of FSVS says, “There would be no race without DCCoD, an unofficial group of racers and riders across numerous established teams that happen to live in and around Delaware who train together, race each other, and most importantly support each other, especially when it comes to volunteering at the local races.”
In addition to cycling, the Fair Hill venue hosts a variety of equestrienne events, including Steeplechase, a discipline analogous to cyclocross. Past races have taken riders over logs, through horse stables, and across sand pits.
Czupryna says of this year’s course, “We hope to be able to incorporate a ‘pit of doom’ into the course this year. Last year officials deemed it too dangerous for the beginner groups but we’re hoping to have it sorted for Saturday.”
The technical course offers excellent vantage points for spectators who can enjoy tasty treats courtesy of Cafe Gelato of Newark who will provide food for the venue. Additionally, cross-specific vendors will be on hand and Czupryna reports there’s a “high likelihood of a mini-beer garden thanks in part to State Line Liquors in Elkton.” What could be better?
Expect defending MAC champion Laura Van Gilder (Mellow Mushroom p/b C3) to put in a great show in the Elite women’s race after her second place finishes at both days of the 21st Annual Cycle-Smart International behind winner Katerina Nash (Luna). A perennial favorite who always puts up a great fight, Van Gilder now leads both the MAC and Verge New England Cyclocross Series.
