I’ve come around to the view that Cyclocross (Euro ‘cross really) is the most watchable cycling competition, and the most suitable to broadcast on television or internet for the mass consumption of cycling fans the world over. Cyclocross has it all: rowdy crowds, sponsor banners, a relatively short, closed course that allows for cameras at all critical junctures. There’s even drone footage of the race now.
There are also crashes, strategy, insane bike skills, power, sprints, teamwork. Somebody tell me what it’s missing. I have resolved to watch more and more often. I’m nothing like an expert now.
What we got was a 1-2-3 sweep for the Dutch women, although Fem van Empel did get the alone-in-photo, first place finish. On the men’s side, van der Poel and van Aert battled most of the way, only for a brief moment of concentration lapse to decide the race.
Agree CX is a blast to watch! The CXNATs in Connecticut were raced in brutal conditions. And Curtis White finally won!!! (Grew up in the next town west of me and his mom taught my daughter in 3rd and 4th grades!)