Save the Date for GO Cross

Bikes, beer and plenty of shenanigans.

Whether you plan to race or spectate, that’s what you can expect at Virginia’s Blue Ridge GO Cross Presented by Deschutes Brewery on Labor Day Weekend.

Cyclocross can be described as a bike race in a steeplechase format with riders that hop on and off bicycles while leaping over barriers and sloshing through mud, navigating gravel pits, stairs, and barriers.

GO Cross is an official USA Cycling race, which will draw professionals from all over the country. The Roanoke Outside Foundation and Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge are organizing GO Cross on Sept. 1-2.

If you’ve never raced cyclocross before … that’s ok. GO Cross is perfect for first-timers, but also has a $10,000 prize purse for elite riders. So even if you are new, you’ll get to ride the same course as the pros.

There are categories for riders of all levels and thanks to East Coasters Bike Shop, women get free entry. Just register online by Aug. 29th at 8pm.

RACERS REGISTER HERE

For Spectators and Runners

GO Cross will be a lot of fun for spectators as well. Did you know it’s common to heckle riders at a cyclocross race? So bring a cowbell and cheer on riders in your own special way.

There will be plenty of food and beverage on site as well. Deschutes Brewery will be providing beer for sale and a there will be food trucks with plenty of grub.

Bonus event: Runners can tackle the course as well. RunCross will precede the main event on Saturday, Sept. 1. Runners will takes as many laps around the cyclocross course as they can – obstacles and all – in one hour. The course is roughly 1.5 miles with a grass course, short barriers, tight turns, a sand pit, and even the famous Avis Construction GO Cross flyover.

RUNNERS REGISTER HERE

Volunteers Needed

It takes a village to put on an event like GO Cross. Spend the day with us and consider picking up a volunteer shift. (It’s the best way to be close to the action.)

This race will attract riders from all over the country, help us show them what a great venue and event we have in the Roanoke Region.

Volunteer needs include everything from pouring beer to helping get cyclists registered to setting up and taking down the event. Shifts are available beginning Thursday, Aug. 30 through Sunday, Sept. 2.

SIGN UP TO VOLUNTEER HERE

GO Cross

• When: Sept. 1-2
• Where: Fallon Park
• Schedule: Online
• Cost: Free for spectators, riders can register online