Go Cross Draws Cyclists from 14 States

It was muddy, but that added to the fun of the Go Cross Cyclocross Race Presented by Deschutes Brewery on Nov. 14-15.

The two-day event at Fallon Park in Roanoke looked a little different in 2020, but was met with a positive response from participants eager for an in-person cycling event.

There were 399 registrants. Riders came from 14 states — Arizona, Washington DC, Delaware, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maryland, North Carolina, New Hampshire, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. Fifty-eight percent were from outside Virginia.

The race, put on by the Roanoke Outside Foundation, is based on the same model as the Blue Ridge Marathon. Go Cross attracts tourists and more importantly, enhances the region’s national image, gives our community something big to be a part of, and shows people there is something special about the beauty and lifestyle of the Roanoke Region. (Did you know that the cyclocross course at Fallon Park is the only permanent course in Virginia?)

“All riders and spectators happily followed safety protocols and wore masks and remained distanced,” said Julia Boas, events director for Roanoke Outside. “We did a COVID pre-screening questionnaire 48 hours in advance. All feedback we’ve received has been very positive and riders stated how safe they felt. They also have expressed gratitude for being given their only opportunity to race this year.”

Local professional cyclists Kerry Werner took the men’s podium both days and his wife Emily took second both days. The Werners relocated to Vinton this year because of the region’s active cycling culture.