Spectator Info

Spectator Info

Do you want to watch your friends pedal in large circles over grass and gravel, through sand and mud? What if we make them run up a flight of stairs while carrying their bike? Or dismount to hop over wooden barriers or some other seemingly-unnecessary-but-intentionally-placed object? While you (encouragingly) taunt them from the sidelines, incessantly ringing a cowbell?

Welcome to cyclocross.

Mountain biking meets criterium racing meets an obstacle course in this spectator-friendly form of bike racing. Racing takes place on a mostly off-road, short course featuring grass, dirt, mud, gravel, sand, and sometimes pavement with obstacles thrown into the mix that force a rider to dismount and carry their bike. Racers do multiple laps of the course for a set amount of time, usually 30-60 minutes. Cyclocross is a fall/winter sport, so expect cold, wet weather (but that’s part of the fun).

Where’s the best place to watch?

Because we change venues for each race, the courses and best spots to watch change too. Courses are usually less than 2 miles and wind around a central location, so look for a spot along the course with an interesting feature (i.e. sandpit, barriers, staircase, mud) and post up.

What should I bring/wear?

A cowbell.
Beer.
Friends.
More cowbell.
Hot chocolate.
Coffee.
Snacks for you, handups for racers (see next section).
Wear warm layers, and something waterproof if it’s raining.

Handups

Handups are a time-honored cyclocross tradition, and a fun way for spectators to be a part of the race. How it works: hold out an item (a dollar bill, small cup of beer, bacon, red vine, donut hole…you get the idea) at a random place along the course, and racers can choose to grab them as they go by.

Where should I park?

Please follow the same directions & parking instructions available for racers.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes! We love seeing four-legged furry friends at our races. Please be respectful of racers and other spectators by keeping your dog on a leash at all times.