The USGP of Cyclocross has brought an increased level of professionalism in the organization of US
cyclocross. Many of the discussion in the "Reflections & Implications" pages written in 2005 have been incorporated into
the USGP and were evident in the 2007 version in Mercer County Park, New Jersey, November 17-18, 2007.
The web page for this specific weekend of the USGP series is:
One of the first steps to professionalism is a technical guide which is available to competitors,
teams, managers before the race. As seen at pro road events, the organizers of this event had draft versions of this
technical guide under review in July, 2007, four months prior to the event. With the advent of the internet, these are easy
to publish:
The professionalism noted on this webpage should not be a surprise for those who know the principles involved
with organizing this venue, who have decades of pro race organization and team management experience, on both sides of the
Altantic: USGP team as well as G4 Productions.
As seen in the Belgian cross races, course security was well done and well manned. The USGP had emulated the same
level of security and course access, with well designed and placed course crossings. The course was planned with spectators
in mind.
Volunteers course marshalls were covered in a lime green vest so that all could see that they held an official function.
They were also well fed from a special tent dedicated for support crew.
Course crossings from spectator parking to race
Note the dual crossing guards in green. This is early in the day. These were busy in Elite races.
Course Crossing Near Starting Grid
Note crossing guards on both sides & entire area after the starting grid is sealed by fencing.
Hemetically Sealed Fnish Line Area
Same level of protection for finishing area seen at US pro road races. No one gets in.
STARTING GRID LOGISTICS
As noted from the Belgian race descriptions, the starting grid area is essential to contain and regulate. Both
this event and Granouge (Wilmington, Delaware) have levels of starting grid controls near the same as noted in the Belgian
races.
In both situations, the organizer takes control of putting riders in a penned area outside of the grid -- and the grid
is totally sealed on all four ends with fencing (not tape).
View from 100m away from starting grid
Note fencing all around grid area & convenient covered area for riders to stay out of rain.
Calling up riders into the grid
Can you recognize who this is? Hint, look at Hommage to EuroCamp page.
OTHER PROFESSIONAL ELEMENTS
Double Pit
Note: fully fenced, controlled on both ends, 10 boxes, wide lanes.
Water Truck with Power Washers
Nomad Washers sponsored truck, which was needed due to the rain/sleet on day 2.
Example of Bilingual Signage
One of many which told you where critical areas of race operation were located
Pre-Podium Tent for Top 3 Rider Preparation
Similar to tents in Belgium. Nice touch, Heaters and hot water would be good touches in future.
The Podium
Big enough to host an Elvis Presley concert
The "Flyover"
Unforgettable experience for all the riders. USGP is the first implementation of flyovers in the US
At the end of the day, organization of cyclocross is a labor of love.
