(but it’s not all good)
Cyclo-cross has a very rich history in the Kansas City metro (and the nearby region). We’ve hosted the National Championship three times since 2000. We’ve held seasons with over 20 races within an hour drive. There have been instructional clinics led by top tier talent. And of course we have the priceless Donderdag! Youth program.
Cyclo-cross needs space. How much? Depending on course design as little as five acres OR much much more. Venues require space for a course plus parking, registration, shelter, and (hopefully) spectators.
Public parks have been essential venues locally (and across the U.S.). In the past races were welcomed (or tolerated) by Parks and Recreation Departments in Kansas City, MO and Kansas City, KS as well as Leawood, Overland Park, Parkville, Platte County, and Shawnee. In 2023 a substantial number of the former venues are no longer available for cyclo-cross. Why? In general it’s cost. Either the rental/production fees are beyond the means of grass-roots racing or the Park staff find any potential damage too costly and deny access.
Spread out. Because of the lack of venues ‘close in’ to metropolitan KC we are seeing a schedule requiring longer drive times. And yes, a few of these races are not new (Joules CX, and 360 Cup in Lawrence). We also have a reduced schedule compared to pre-pandemic (but expanded from 2022).
This year’s schedule as current on the KCA Calendar:
Sept. 10th Quirk Hard CX at Donderdag Park Shawnee KS
Sept 23 Joules CX (followed by MTN bike racing the next day) Lawrence KS
Sept 30th Muleskinner CX Lone Jack, MO
October 7th/8th 360 Race @ Perry KS
October 29th Boulevard Cup Olathe KS
November 11th/12th 360 Cup Lawrence KS
We haven’t confirmed, but there may be racing at the Snake Farm property (outside of Lawrence KS) and there is a possible late November race (hosted by Localcycling.com).
So, yes we have a reasonable schedule of events, but there are challenges. We need more venues, we need more interested promoters, and we need more interested riders. And we need a different direction from USAC cycling. We are starting with fewer competitors going into this season. Prior to 2020 it was rare for an event in even the most foul weather to draw less than 100 racers. Here is a link comparing increases in SOME of the fees USAC requires. It’s only a part of the economic story.
Most local events can be found here (including some non-USAC CX): BikeReg.com (searchable by state).
We do our best to post updates with clinics/training rides/races at our Localcycling Facebook page.