WCA #1: CZ Velo/Moe's Burrito Cross. Lapham Peak State Park, Delafield WIby David Thomas for CyclocrossElements Sunday October 2nd ushered in the start of the Wisconsin Cup Cyclo-Cross Series. Held at racer and spectator favorite for the third year running, Lapham Peak proved the ideal setting for the series kick-off. With temps in the seventies and a sunny sky, it seemed more like a road race then a 'cross event.
This year's course abandoned the usual run up with barriers, instead Race Director Chris Setter opted for an off camber hairpin down the hill, then the hill itself: for a new grass run up. Climb, Descend, Run. A better triathlon?
CZ Velo did a great job setting the stage and the racers did a great job of filling the results.
In the Men's A race, Trek VW-Midwest rider Tristan Schouten fought great race with Alan Factory's Matt Kelly. The two men stayed together nearly all race, until Schouten pulled ahead 
on the bell lap. Both riders looked great on the course, not running the two sets of barriers, preferring to bunny hop fight over them. As for the steep grassy run up, shall we say, crank up?
If we great races like this one all season, we're in for one premier WCA line-up.The Women's A race Kristen Wentworth (Nova/IS Corp) almost caught Team Wisconsin's Patt Kaufmann in the latter laps. Both women were in great form, but Wentworth was not as proficient on the barriers, and Kaufmann looked better on the run-up. Not bad for a first try at 'cross, Kristen.
More WCA action next on October 15 and 16 at Yellowstone SP and Badger Prairie CP, both outside of Madison.Thanks to Chris Setter for the results
For more information about the WCA Cycloross Series, please visit the Madison Cyclocross web page @ www.madcross.org
