What was our New Year’s resolution? Race our bikes, of course and we didn’t waste any time getting at it.
This year’s inaugural Chicago Cross Cup’s New Year’s Resolution race was held in Bloomingdale, IL on December 31st 2011 and January 1st 2012.
The course was completely exposed with no tree covering and only one significant elevation gain which riders tackled twice per lap. Rain the preceding days made the course unbelievably muddy and cold temperatures made it a tough race.
In the Masters race, Dave Eckel had a tough day finishing 21st and decided to not race on Sunday to prepare for nationals the following weekend. Joseph Maloney had 2nd row starts both days which allowed him to get into the lead group on Saturday. He finished 2nd that day.
On Sunday, a first lap crash gave Maloney a 10 second gap which quickly stretched out to 30 seconds. Austin Vincent, Saturday winner began to chase. In an exciting last lap Austin made contact and the two rode together for a few minutes. In the final deep mud pit Joseph bobbled and lost Austin. He gave chase but it proved to difficult. Joe rolled in for another fine 2nd place result.
Maloney Second Place Chi-Cross Cup New Year's Resolution
Next weekend is Cyclocross Nationals right here in our backyard. KS Energy Services/Team Wisconsin will be there in force with a full tent and many racers. Come out and cheer on your favorite racers at Badger Prairie in Verona January 4 through the 8th.