CX races to watch in the UK?

[figbat]

Over the festive period I got quite into watching the CX races from the Netherlands and Belgium. They looked like quite fun things to attend as a spectator.

Do such races happen over here, in a similar vein? I’ve tried searching but generally find club CX races to enter rather than spectator events.

 

[JonBuoy]

At the club CX races you can usually just turn up and spectate. I am helping out at one this weekend where we expect a couple of hundred competitors of all ages and spectators are welcome. Don't forget to take your cowbell with you!

 

[figbat]

Thanks, I might check out what’s local. I just like the idea of seeing the likes of MVDP and FVE etc plying their trade with a big, enthusiastic crowd and a beer in my hand!

 

[HarryTheDog]

Having raced at regional level in the past for a few years, you may get a cup of tea but no beer unless you take your own. Also the spectators are likely to be just friends and family and the odd dog walker who has stumbled across it who usually applaud politely. I used to take my daughter racing in Belgium and it was like a carnival, a fair, beer tents etc in the uk more like a very very small village fete with tea and buns.

 

[Jameshow]

Thanks, I might check out what’s local. I just like the idea of seeing the likes of MVDP and FVE etc plying their trade with a big, enthusiastic crowd and a beer in my hand!

Prob not in UK!
Must get a bit boring MVP winning every race!
But pidcock and wva falling off might add excitement!!!

 

[BrumJim]

Over the festive period I got quite into watching the CX races from the Netherlands and Belgium. They looked like quite fun things to attend as a spectator.

Do such races happen over here, in a similar vein? I’ve tried searching but generally find club CX races to enter rather than spectator events.

Sorry - didn't see this.

There are local races as part of local leagues. Very much that almost all spectators are related to the competitors, and all ages covered, from 6 year olds to those in their 70s and above. Early morning for the little kids, and later for the adults.

There was an App where you could find the local league, but that only lasted for one year. I think Wessex league covers your area best.

But it is nothing like the races in Netherlands and Belgium. If World Cup races are equivalent to Premiership races, then Wessex League is probably equivalent to the Wessex Football league. You might have to pay for parking, and there are no spectator provisions, but there should be a couple of food outlets (coffee/cakes and hot dogs/burgers). Some races have commentry, most don't.

Above that is the National series, held over 2 days. Saturday is the young things and oldies. Sunday is the Juniors and Elites. Again, no charge for entry, bigger choice of food, and bigger races. You will probably see the almost the best of British cyclo-cross racers (e.g. Thomas Mein, UK's #2 races, Cameron Mason, UK's #1 doesn't). Nearest race to you was Clanfield, just North of Portsmouth. Otherwise, Torbay or Gravesend. British Cycling website will give you the details. About 5 races per season.

And then on to the National Championships. One every year, with the same structure as the National Series, but all the best will be racing, and the winner of each race gets to wear the National jersey, as well as getting a trophy and a medal. This year it was at Gravesend. Next year it is rumoured to be at South Shields, just outside Newcastle. These are the biggest and best supported events in the country.

Bad news - the season is almost over. National champs has finished, as has the national series. Some local races are still taking place.

Summary - if you are expecting something similar to the CX races you see on telly, you are going to be very disappointed. But you will be very welcome.