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CrossVegas, the Largest Cyclocross Race in the United States, Returns to Las Vegas for 6th Year

CrossVegas, the biggest cyclocross race outside of Europe, flies through Las Vegas with International racers displaying unbelievable athleticism in the pursuit for the top spot. More than 10,000 spectators watched in amazement in 2011, and CrossVegas expects the numbers to grow this year as this event marks the kickoff to Interbike 2012, North America’s largest bicycle trade event and show. The race takes place Wednesday evening, September 19 from 4 p.m. till 11 p.m. at Desert Breeze Soccer Complex, 8275 Spring Mountain Rd.

Cyclocross is a growing niche of competitive cycling combining the speed of road bike races with the terrain of mountain bike events. Riders in cyclocross jump on and off their specially made bicycles and carry them over barriers and obstacles, all while racing for the best time. The setting of Desert Breeze Soccer Complex provides the perfect venue to display the skills required to master this sport.

2011 CrossVegas champion Lars van der Haar of The Netherlands returns to defend his title in the Elite Pro race. The men’s field will feature cutthroat competition from 80 of the world’s best cyclocross racers from more than a dozen nations. The women’s field at CrossVegas will be the biggest and best outside of the World Championships featuring two-time winner Katerina Nash of the Czech Republic facing Katie Compton of the United States, who is also a two-time winner. Both ladies are medalists at the World Championships. 50 women representing eight nations will race to an exciting finish for the title.

The schedule for race day is as follows:

• 5 p.m. – USA Cycling race for developing men and women.
• 7 p.m. – “Wheelers & Dealers” race for attendees of the Interbike bicycle trade show
• 8:20 p.m. – Elite Women
• 9:30 p.m. – Elite Men

Doors open at 4 p.m. and the event concludes at 11 p.m. Tickets are on sale now and are $8, children under 12 are free. Food and beverages will be sold on-site. For more on the race, qualifications and registration information or to purchase tickets visit the event website at www.crossvegas.com