Evans Manchester Go Race CX Series – review

This was a new Cyclo Cross series run by Manchester Cycling Development with support from Evans Manchester staff and local volunteers. The newly refurbished Clayton Vale Visitors Centre was opened by the Friends of Clayton Vale to act as Headquarters, with coffee and bacon butties on the menu.

The series aimed to create a chance for new riders to try the sport in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Experienced riders were made welcome, but the emphasis was on fun and encouragement, with lots of riders entering who were new to cycling entirely and new to cyclo cross.

Round 1 started with a very basic course around a field close to the centre. With a dry day forecast the only challenges were some off camber paths and the specially build Evans Planks. Around 40 riders in total tackled the course, with everybody finishing the 30 minute senior race a little red in the face thanks to the hot weather.

Round 2 saw a more adventurous course taking in a long uphill drag, some fast tarmac and a specially built short downhill single track section. The infamous planks were back in action, with the special prize still standing for the first rider to bunny hop them both. Everybody from riders to marshals and parents earned their coffee and cake before the prize giving. Fewer riders showed for this event but there were as many new faces which was positive.

For the final round something special was needed, and the course didn’t disappoint. A motley crew of experienced cross racers, single speed mountain bikers and even a fixed gear rider set off to tackle 32 steps, a fast upper section and a rolling downhill. It was perhaps the furthest from a classic cross course used, but most of the 60 plus riders seemed to enjoy the chance to test their handling skills.

Special thanks are owed to everybody who came to ride or support. The more riders who come down, the more likely we are to gain further sponsorship in the future. Evans Manchester’s Marc T was the driving force behind the series, starting from wishing for a ride with some mates, and ending up with a 3 race series to organise. Next year he’ll keep quiet!

Evans generously donated over £300 in vouchers as prizes, built the planks, hired a van and organised all the little extras that take time to arrange, plus staff to build the course, marshal and provide mechanic support.

Also many thanks to Groundwork and Medlock Valley Community Trust for granting the use of the park free of charge.