Photo: Luke Seemann

– Thanks again to Chris Henning, Jason Meshberg, Flatlandia, and the Northbrook Garner Bicycle Club for another successful and fun CCC race at the Decoma Day Camp in Northbrook. Chris/Jason and crew have some changes in the works for next year, but we’ll get to that next November. Thanks also to everyone who came out to race and video/photo the event. There are usually quite a few cameras with budding photographers attached to them running around, but we’ve never seen so many as this past weekend, which was great to catch all the action… which leads us to…

– Weekend Update: The usual cast of characters showed up early and pedaled their bicycles fast… then Sam Schneider won the W1/2/3 race, jumped into a car, drove to WI, and had enough left in the tank to win her state championship (congrats Sam). The Cat 3’s are shaping up to again be the closest overall competition of the series, and if Northbrook was any indication there will be fireworks at Montrose. The Women Cat 4’s had a very close race, mixed with some breakdancing, and the Juniors again battled it out to the finish line. Mike “Cupcake” Sherer gave the Cat 1/2/3’s a tutorial on bunny hopping (now, if he could just learn to pin his number on right side up), while The Hemme showed off his newest Blue Steel, and Brian Conant ascended into CX heaven to seal up the CCC overall title. Then the Cat 4’s started… oh man… some people can make it look pretty, but let’s just say we’ve never heard the term carnage used so many times in such a short span. While the rest of us were watching the sand pit, there was some action at the bunny hoppers. Dave Knauff again won the best Thanksgiving themed costume. From the WTF files… we’re still trying to figure out this, this, this, this, and this… and we’re not sure if this junior stopped to do a few push-ups… but we definitely know that Nick Guy_F_Ski knows how to catch some serious air… Jon Fairman too… as does Chris Jensen… but in all fairness his wheels do have anti-gravity devices in them (but what can you do?). That’s right, Ken Mitchell was in attendance… Audrey won a trainer, and Super Mario collected a few more golden coins. Sister Sprocket was up to her mischievous ways again, Super Girl took on Bryan Lee for best game face, and Greg T & Flannel Mike were back in action. Katie Isermann decided to shut down her hedge fund since she makes more money grabbing hand-ups in the 4B’s and junior Joe Sullivan won this week’s Flying Pig Award. And lastly… this makes us and Ted Berger happy.

– Psimet  Custom Wheels made it on to the SRAM Road Diaries.

– Lots of new USAC rules for next year, many regarding CX.

– Up next weekend… the CCC takes a breather (can you believe its been since the weekend before Elvis Cross since the CCC has had a weekend off?) and lets our friends to the West (i.e. Iowa) host their annual mudfest… Jingle Cross. We heard JC has a flyover this year, so all you CCC’ers should be well practiced. For those not racing… have a great holiday weekend.

– Two weekends from now the CCC returns for its final race of the year which also serves as our Illinois State CX Championship as Turin Bicycles hosts stop 12 of the CCC at Montrose Harbor. Yes, we will open the Cat 4’s fields up to 100 riders, but we have to take care of the paperwork first… stay tuned.

– Turin needs volunteers to help out at Montrose. Please contact George Vargas at [email protected]  if you would like to help out.  George will tailor your volunteer assignment to fit with your other plans for the weekend.  Who knows at this point what the weather will be like,  but the laughter, excitement, and fun will surely warm you. Bring your friends, family, neighbors, co-workers, … make a party out of it.  Opportunities to help out include:
· Set up, either Saturday afternoon/evening, 12/4
· Course marshals during the day on Sunday (shifts are either 8:30 to 12:45 or 12:30 to 4:15)
· Floaters (do rounds and substitute while course marshals take short breaks)   (shifts at 8:30 to 12:45 or 12:30 to 4:15)
· Registration during the day on Sunday (shifts are either 8:00 to 12:00 or 11:45 to 3:45)
· Tear down/clean up after the last race on Sunday afternoon (4:00)

– And if you’re still looking for a party… the evening after the Afterglow… Orange Shoe Fitness‘ Newt Cole and Los Borrachos will be rocking a Christmas Spectacular again at The Elbo Room some time in the evening. We’ll go ahead and call this the 2010 CCC end of year Christmas Holiday Party. Red Sweater Vests get half price at the Door. Give aways too… not sure of the specifics but maybe a Piñata filled with Enzo’s and gel shots?

– Tickets will be on sale later this week for the CCC Awards Dinner. We’ll again be at EJ’s Place in Skokie from noon until 3 or 4pm on Sunday January 9th. Please reg/buy your tickets ahead of time to help us and EJ plan for the event. We hope to see everyone there for a great wrap up of the season.

– The CCC made it to VeloNews… sort of.

– And finally… we here at the CCC know we’re very fortunate to have such a great CX community of racers, spectators, friends, family, hecklers, promoters, sponsors, and everyone in between. We’re very, very, very thankful that all of you come out every weekend to spend a few hours with us at our little party, and at the end of the day we may be tired but are already looking forward to the next weekend when we get to do it all over again. Because of all of that, we at the CCC wish everyone and their families a very safe, healthy, and happy Thanksgiving… one of the truly great and unique American holidays… no coincidence at all its during CX season!

Photo: Chip Williams

– Double thanks again to the South Chicago Wheelman for a great duo weekend at the Indian Lakes Resort. What a difference 24 hours can make. From upper 50’s and rain on Saturday to lower 40’s and wind and sun (and more wind) on Sunday… a true cyclocross weekend.

– Up next the penultimate race of the CCC series, the Northbrook Swansong hosted by the Northbrook Garner Bicycle Club and Flatlandia. Lots of details to come, so check back at 9am on Thursday for the course preview.

Weekend Update: Congratulations to Chris Lombardo from Verdigris who has earned enough points to lock up the overall in the Masters 40+ category. Chris must have been so happy he gifted the win on Sunday to his teammate Erik Enyedy (who had a great ride regardless). The Hemme is back (!) and hit the podium on Saturday while Brian Conant won on Saturday and was 2nd on Sunday, adding to his lead in the Cat 1/2/3 overall. We wonder what the juniors think about the 1/2/3 race? In the ladies races, Sam Schneider from Team Tibco swept both days in the W1/2/3, while Eleanor Blick from Johnny Sprockets and Christina Peck from the Cuttin’ Crew battled out wins in the Women Cat 4 races.  Danny Warner from Verdigris swept both Masters 50+ races (and brought his kids along for the ride on Sunday) as did John Kurtz from Flatlandia in the Cat 3’s. Meanwhile Lou Kuhn from The Pony Shop and John Gatto from Twin Six battled it out in the 30+. The Juniors were exciting all weekend long as the mob squad Team Expo swept the podium on Sunday. But as we all know, the real action (see above) is always in the Cat 4’s. The Bike Crusher did his job, Tati won some MAE, while Magnum PI was wondering why he left Hawaii. Still not sure what to make of this, this, this, this, or this…  but we’re pretty sure Quarter Acre could tell us. Yes, there is a person in there. Sister Sprocket got sneaky (so did Thom the elder), and original CCC series director Joe Doyle helped out a little. Megaphone wars, Musettes were handed out, beverages were wasted, and Bacon Alley reared its ugly head again. Brian Lee had his game face on (again), Supergirl and Rob Curtis… well… nevermind, 1/4 Acre and Noah duked it out in the 4B’s, and Natalie got a treat! And lastly, a special shout-out to Mike Young, West Town Bikes, and Ciclo Urbano for coming out, racing, cheering, and finding out how great cyclocross can be.

– Thought You Knew will be at Northbrook to cheer on everyone, especially their pin-up girls. But if you want to get a head start, on Nov 19, 6–10pm the Pin Up Calendar Gala Launch Party takes place at the COOP, 845 West Fulton Market. Free admission. Calendars on sale for $20, 100% sales go to The Chicago Women’s Health Center. Then on Nov 20 at noon TyK hosts their Sadie Hawkins Style Ride starting at the Blue Frog, 676 N LaSalle. $20 per Couple. The Sadie is a treasure-hunt bicycle ride benefiting the Chicago Women’s Health Center. Information and pre-registration at chicagosadiehawkins.info.

– Update on 2010 CX Nationals, concerning tire widths, registration discounts, and more.

– Registration for Half Acre & the Cuttin’ Crew’s Afterglow race is now open on BikeReg.com.

– REKLAIM has the 2010 CCC series t-shirts. Make sure to pick up yours at Northbrook or Montrose. As a reminder, all proceeds go directly to WBR.

– Our friendly USAC officials have asked us once again to remind you how to correctly pin and place your number. Doing so will help them immensely when scoring your race.

– And finally… We’ve asked and asked but some of you still don’t seem to understand that when pre-riding the course you may NOT ride in front of others still racing. This seems to be happening the most as the Women 4 and Juniors are finishing up. When we open the course up for pre-riding after the first racer has finished that means the last racers are still on course. Just because they aren’t winning doesn’t mean they are not working just as hard for their placing. So please, when checking out the course, please enter the course from the designated area (usually just past the finish line) and if you catch someone still racing… DO NOT ride in front of them. Thanks!

Earlier this year as we at the CCC started planning out the 2010 season we decided we wanted to offer more to our riders but needed a little extra cash to pay for things like stakes (which you all love to break hundreds of every year), course tape, flags, bib #’s, music, more flags, more stakes, Snuggies, and a few other items we haven’t yet revealed. But when we put together our sponsorship proposal we weren’t sure what kind of response we would get… if any at all. Luckily for everyone we have a great community of not only racers, promoters, spectators, and hecklers… but of series sponsors as well. At the top of that list for 2010 is Brandon Elliott, who literally called us the day we posted the series sponsorship proposal and said he wanted to make Iron Cycles the 2010 CCC Series Title Sponsor.

We recently sat down with Brandon to find out a little more about him, Iron Cycles, and what’s behind those flashy orange & black skinsuits.

Photo: Chip Williams

Q: Everyone involved with the series greatly appreciates Iron Cycles stepping up to be the 2010 CCC series title sponsor, what inspired you to step up in such a big way?

A: Working in a shop doesn’t allow me a ton of free time in the summer months when everyone else is racing road, tri, crits, etc.  Long training weeks aren’t all that easy in the summer either, so getting in short and intense training rides fit my schedule.  I got into bike racing with some of our teammates on mountain bikes.  Unfortunately hitting the trails can’t happen all of the time, so cyclocross filled that dirtless void.

When I thought about it, I could train through the summer pretty appropriately for cyclocross, then actually have time to race in the fall, it all made sense!  Pretty much everyone at Iron Cycles is racing in the 2010 CCC series, we’re all addicts, and spend all week turning wrenches while talking ‘cross.

Q: In what ways do you see a return for your investment into this growing sport?

A: Honestly, sponsoring the CCC wasn’t an ROI kind of proposition.  Seeing all cycling events succeed does help my business, but there are plenty of other events and causes we could have sponsored.  I wanted to sponsor the CCC because I knew it was my main focus, all of my cycling friends would be there, and it promotes a very healthy and competitive environment.

Q: As a new(ish) shop, you have built a great following in a short period of time, what do you owe that to?

A: I’d like to think the enthusiasm we have for bikes shines through.  While all of us at the shop do or have raced, we all regularly bike-commute as well.  Being able to sincerely share our passion with everyone who comes through the door seems to really show that we practice what we’re preaching. Before Iron Cycles, and since then really, I’ve been into a lot of shops where it was painfully obvious the people there didn’t ride, WE DO RIDE! Not that there is anything wrong with that, but when someone is trying to sell me bikes or gear I want to know that they are out there using what they are selling. We don’t spend a lot of time talking about building wheels or gluing tires without showing up to race on them, and I think people notice that.  Cusomters know if I’m gluing up some tubular tires onto my Zipp wheels, I’m going to be racing, not just talking about it.

Q: There are lots of great bike shops in Chicago. Do you interact with other shops? Trade techniques, product reviews etc?

A: HA!  I can’t help but to assume there are a couple of shop owners out there tired of hearing from me!  I’ve done my best to be as upfront and honest with other shop owners who show the same respect to me.  Chicago is a big city and there is a lot of business to go around, so I’ve worked hard to build relationships with other local shops.  I feel there are a few who have been especially respectful with territory lines, ideas, and support.  Lou (The Pony Shop), Manuel (Johnny Sprockets), and Amy (MOX) have all been especially supportive.

Q: What has been the more memorable experiences you have had in the CCC series over the past few seasons?

A: Going 12 rounds wrestling my bike a couple of weeks ago rings a bell!  That photo has found its way onto the CCC website as well as a few email strings I’ve been included on.  I doubt I’ll forget going should-to-shoulder with a xXx’er in Northbrook last year through the sand, mostly because he edged me out at the line! At the top of the list though was getting my first top-10 this year and when I crossed the finish line saw my little baby there waiting!

Q: You not only own and run Iron Cycles, but you also race (quite well) every weekend have a little one at home, and just bought a house. What’s your secret to fitting it all in?

A: I wish I could say it was all my doing, but it’s my support crew.  First and foremost is my wife who lets me sneak out for long weekend rides all summer and doesn’t complain when the alarm goes off at 5 am.  She takes care of the 70% of my life outside of work.  She does all of the tough stuff and just lets me do my thing.  I get to come home beat up from riding or working and play with my awesome baby girl, who is always happy because my wife is taking care of her.

After her come the guys at the shop.  I know if there is something I need done, they can be trusted to do it well.  Chase and Steve are both there not only doing their jobs, but coming up with new and creative processes and equipment we can implement.  They know bikes, equipment, and how to fix them both.  I’m also lucky enough to have a few guys from the team who were enthusiastic to work in the shop as well, and while they aren’t working full-time, they are worth their weight in gold when it comes to getting all of the loose ends tied up at the end of a busy day.

Following close on their heels are my parents an in-laws.  My dad has a great business mind, my mom helps me with my people skills.  I call them pretty much daily with questions or looking for advice and ideas.  My in-laws have helped calm Nisha’s nerves about me being self-employed and have supported us as a family.  Without a solid home life, the professional life would be too tough.

After them comes Brian Conant.  But why thank him, he’s coaching all of my competition as well!

Q: What special services/products does Iron Cycles offer to the cross community that may be unique or some people may not be aware of?

A: A big avenue for us has been our training studio, which isn’t the most common thing for a shop to have.  I’ve been a certified personal trainer since college, adding a fitness portion to the bike shop was always part of my plan.  When we made the move into our new store I decided to take it by the reigns and do something different.  It’s not a huge profit center for us, but it’s something we get to use personally very often and a few select members get to use as well.  Having a group of 5-6 friends to ride with indoors seemed to be much more productive than jumping on a trainer in the basement solo.

A lot of people don’t like trainers, but I’ve learned to be friends with it.  The Computrainers allow you to get in a very specific workout and know that you’re not slacking, which is pivotal to time-crunched athletes.  Time well spent on the trainers will allow you to dial in your fitness.

Q: What is one of the more important necessities for your race daily routine?

A: Caffeine.  And a good warmup.  Last year my fitness wasn’t even close to race-worthy, so my warmups were weak in fear of tiring myself out before the whistle was blown.  This year is very different (again with the BSC Coaching!), and a good warmup now will make or break my result. Oh, and tire pressure.  It’s amazing how much 1-2 psi can mean to your race.  My dad was my pit crew in Campton and he scoffed at me when I said “30 psi front, 31 psi rear.”  He couldn’t believe there would actually be a noticeable difference.  I promise you, there is.

Q: What is your best cross specific tip for bike set up?

A: It’s all about the tires. Light wheels are great too, but the wrong tires will make your race miserable.  Once you have the tire issue under control, look to your brakes.  Cyclocross bikes are notorious for brake chatter, I see it every weekend.  But the right combination of brake setup, pads, and rims will all but eliminate that.  No brake chatter will lead to much more confident riding.  I don’t want to jinx myself, but my Focus has yet to chatter, not once!

Q: What are your thoughts on handups? Are you more of a cash, food, beverage, or anything goes kinda thing?

A: I wish I could say I had a strong opinion, but no one is ever giving handups during the 30+ races!  Going off with the 30+ guys at 9:45 means most people haven’t even arrived yet, so we don’t get anything handed up. If I had to side one way, I’d say handups are a go as long as they don’t provide an unfair advantage to any one racer.  Dollar bills, twinkies, bacon, spaghetti, fire away!

Q: One of your women riders was the subject of the CCC’s 2010 billboard. What went through your mind when you saw that picture? Have you found the billboard for yourself and had your picture taken in front of it?

A: First thing I thought, “Why am I not the one on there?!”  Then I realized there are about 500 other racers each weekend that would make that billboard much more attractive than I!  Kristina sure has drawn a lot of press for us with the billboard and magazine cover, so she deserves a special shout-out on that front.  I was really excited to see it, something like that adds legitimacy in my eyes to what I’m doing at Iron Cycles.  Sometimes I get caught up in the little details, but a billboard makes you step back and just sort of smile.

It took me a bit to get down there, but I finally made it last week.  My wife went by, actually she passes it every day on her way to work.  My parents came into town and went down there, they are always happy to see something new for Iron Cycles, I think they might have been the most excited out of everyone!

Q: What is in store for Iron Cycles in 2011?

A: We just started carrying Felt bikes, and the 2011’s are just coming in.  Team Iron Cycles is growing and branching out, so watch out for them.  We’re looking forward to another great indoor riding season in the training studio, the weather is just now coming around for that. I have a few other things that’ll be coming around soon that I won’t mention quite yet.  And hopefully 2011 will allow us to sponsor the CCC again!

So there you have it. Look for Brandon and the rest of the Iron Cycles cyclocross team at the next race and swing by and say hi.

Photo: John Wrycza

– Thanks to Dr. Jim Kearns & the crew from Psimet Custom Wheels for yet another great race in Woodstock. We were so concerned with the hills we forgot how bumpy the course can be, and that there is sand out that way.

– Weekend update: Lots to talk about from the weekend, but we think the 74 comments on the Pix, Vids, & Race Reports post sums it all up rather nicely. We all show up and race each week for a reason… some do it for the competition, some for personal goals, some don’t even know why. Cross is hard, even painful at times… but its always fun in the end.  In other news… #700 flew in from Albeqwerky and got a call up in the 4A’s for correctly identifying a song on the CCC race playlist. Yeah, you’re going to need some help with that. Here, let Tati show you how its done. Brian Lee & Dave Lombardo duked it out again in the 4A’s while Flannel Mike & Greg T had a stare-down contest before the 4B’s even started. Supergirl was flying, while Kirby’s bike went flying… and so did Scott’s. Sister Sprocket could be found doing what she does best and the first women ever won the Flying Pig Award. Janette is back and so is The Hemme! Luke lost a toof and… holy cow… Rich looks so pro!

– Up next the CCC’s 2nd double weekend at the Indian Lakes Resort (ILR) hosted by the South Chicago Wheelmen. The SCW have secured discounted hotel room rates of $79 per night for up to 4 people.  For reservations call 630.529.0200 and for general  info visit IndianLakesResort.com. We’ll have more in the Thursday preview, but just to whet your appetite (literally) ILR will have a breakfast buffet from 6:30 am to 11 am and an all-you-can-eat lunch/dinner buffet from 11 am til 6 pm, both for just $12.95 per person Saturday & Sunday. Remember online pre-reg closes a day early this week (at Midnight on Wednesday… that’s tomorrow night) so the SCW can get all the binders put together. Look for more details and course preview Thursday at the regular time (9am for those not paying attention).

– The Cuttin’ Cruiser has been MIA from most CCC races this year, but makes its triumphant return Friday (and Saturday) night at the Cave Catastrophe Continued. You won’t want to miss these parties.

– If you’re spending Saturday night at Indian Lakes and want to chat with the CCC directors about what’s on tap (no, not Fat Tire Ale) for next year… we’ll be hosting a very impromptu fireside chat (location TBD) to discuss ways to make the CCC series better and get ready for CX nationals in Madison in January 2012. We’d love to get your feedback/input, so please swing by and get involved.

– Speaking of save-the-dates… the CCC awards dinner will be held on Sunday, January 9th at EJ’s Place in Skokie. More details to come, but we look forward to seeing everyone at EJ’s to wrap up the season, and to chat about what’s to come in 2011!

– Don’t forget our friends at REKLAIM Apparel have the 2010 series t-shirts printed and will have all pre-orders available for pickup at all remaining races. Its easier on everyone to pre-order and pay online, but REKLAIM will also be selling t-shirts at races (where park rules allow). Shirts are only $15 and all proceeds go directly to World Bicycle Relief!

– Just a reminder to the Juniors and 50+ Masters. Since both of your groups start behind the ladies, please be courteous and let them know when you are about to pass with a simple “On your left/right”.

– Check it out… tthe ICA is taking a survey.

– Looks like some of you are already making travel plans for this year’s CX Nationals in Bend, OR.

– Series sponsor Rapid Transit Cycleshop is getting a website makover to compliment their new(ish) shop on Halsted near UIC’s campus. Check out the preview and the shop’s many bicycle maintenance classes (and monkeys on bikes).

– #532 gets even more Internet time on The Bonebell.com.

– And finally… feeling unfulfilled? Half Acre and the Cuttin’ Crew would like to help and will even call you in the morning.

– Back for his 3rd year in a row Dr. James Kearns along with the crew from Psimet Custom Wheels brings us this year’s 8th stop in the Chicago Cyclocross Cup at Emricson Park in Woodstock, IL. The race’s full name is actually the Ed Brophy Memorial Cross for Life race in memory of Ed Brophy who lost his battle with cancer. 100% of all proceeds from race entries go towards Leukemia and Cancer Research.

– Just a reminder that Dr. Kearns is a naprapath which is a doctor that specializes in treating muscle and skeletal pain. So if you’re hurting after Sunday’s race, see the Dr’s website.

– We’ve received reports there is a bit of construction on Rt 47 through Huntley. Dr. Kearns tells us the best bet is to exit I90 on Randall Road (North), left (West) on Algonquin Rd, right (North) on Route 47 into the town of Woodstock. A left on Lake Ave and another left on South St should lead you right to Emricson Park (on your right). Once you get to the park, there is plenty of parking (see map below) so please use it.

– Please pay attention when you are racing and entering the park in your car. There are 4 (four) road crossings on the course and while there will be course marshals at each crossing, but please look both ways before crossing. Better safe than sorry.

– Registration this year will again be in a tent next to the Start/Finish. There will still be heated restrooms in the warming hut, but Dr. Kearns has added two porta potties near the main parking lot next to reg/start/finish for all your “last minute” needs. The food tent will also be back again with pizza will be served from 11am to 3pm.

– Dr. Kearns reminds us again that alcohol is prohibited in Woodstock parks, so if you’re going to sneak it in, keep it under wraps. We don’t think anyone wants the CCC to lose a venue because of a silly thing like a can of Old Style. So please be on your best behavior… which also means do NOT leave evidence like a mini keg on the ground next to the trash can… take it home and recycle it!

– We’ve already had out little chat about hand ups, so we won’t discuss it again here.

– The weather forecast looks exceptional again, so don’t forget your sun screen! However, remember to change your clocks Saturday night before you go to bed. With going off of day light savings the sun will set in a real hurry after the 4B’s race… so we ask that if you’re just hanging around after the race, please help us tear down the course so we’re not cleaning up in the dark.

– Congratulations to Magnum PI Dan Pollard for being the first person to have his picture taken in front of the CCC’s 2010 billboard. Dan races in the 4’s and will receive a call up after the top 10 in the overall standings. Big thanks again to Van Wagner, Chip Williams, Luke Seemann, and of course the lovely Kristina Young from Iron Cycles for letting us use her picture on the billboard.

– We’re still collecting donations for World Bicycle Relief on each race’s BikeReg.com page… but if you have even more extra change stuck in your couch, check out the WBR Superbike Raffle. Just $5 puts your name in the pot to win this sweet ride, the winner of which will be announced by Johan Bruyneel on Twitter this Saturday, November 6th from Zambia. All proceeds go (of course) to WBR.

– Speaking of proceeds going to WBR… yes, we’ll have the 2010 series t-shirts at the race this weekend. REKLAIM Apparel will be on site distributing shirts for everyone who bought them online. Our friends at RELKAIM are donating 100% of all profits to the CCC’s WBR donation drive.

– The Course: The Woodstock course the past two years has been very spread out, basically tracing the outline of Emricson Park. For 2010 we’ve taken steps to keep the course more contained and spectator friendly but removing the NW and NE sections of the course. However, with so much delicious terrain (read: hills) it will still be a suffer-fest. We’d like to remind everyone that there are some sections on the far West side of the course that are quite a ways away from everything else… so CX rules still apply. If you suffer a mechanical you must go forward on the course and you cannot cut across the park. The wheel/bike pit will be in the same location as last year… just beyond the S/F, and the course will still run clock-wise (so numbers on the left). The course now also has a double sand pit, and potentially and off camber toilet bowl/spiral. The last 1/2 mile or so should again provide the most excitement for spectators with the up hill barrier(s), lots off-camber sections, twists, and turns, and yes… HILLS! As always, the course map below is subject to change on race day.

We’re at it again!

Special thanks to our friends at Van Wagner for the ad space, Chip Williams for the fantastic photo, Luke Seemann for the late night design work, and of course Iron Cycles for being the 2010 series title sponsor and having (many) riders in our races to take pictures of.

Just like last year… the first person to post a photo of themselves (in the comments below) with the billboard in the background gets a special call up at Woodstock. Don’t just write in the intersection… go take a picture! Be safe (that means take the picture standing on the sidewalk… NOT riding your bike through the intersection) and good luck!

Also at Woodstock… REKLAIM apparel tells us the 2010 series T-shirts are ready and will be distributed!

Photo: Luke Seemann

– Thanks again to Rob Kelley and Bicycle Heaven for upping the ante another year at Campton Cross. A slightly new course used many of the favorite and classic parts of the park, while a few new sections challenged and delighted… as did the bag piper! There were costumes in nearly every category, and 454 racers toed the line. Rob and Bicycle Heaven also chipped in an extra $500 to the WBR pot, helping us get even closer to our season long goal of raising $5k!

– Weekend Update: We’re sorry we can’t find links to everyone’s costumes… but you all looked amazing… much better than these people! Sister Sprocket got knocked up, while ghosts roamed the course. We’re not sure what happened to this guy, but you really don’t want to know what’s in that bottle. Luke Skywalker (above left) showed up and won the best costume award (thanks for making sure Yoda was safe with a helmet) and we heard he was headed to the Death Star Canteen shortly afterwards for some Penne alla Arrabiata. Frenchy upgraded and went straight to the front middle of the Cat 1/2/3’s, while eventual race winner Mike Phillips showed off his mtb skills by bunny hopping the barriers! The Hemme is back and showed Rassi how’s to show off Blue Steel. Brandon Leach made his final CCC appearance before shipping off to Norway (we’ll miss you B!) and Soda Popinksi fought his way to his first CCC Cat 3 podium. Gumby stayed at home, but Pokey made it to the race. Buzz Lightyear flew to the top of the juniors podium, even after a 2nd turn tumble… but this weekend’s sportswomanship award definitely goes to Tess Anderson… check out Spin Doctor Cyclewerks’ FB page for the reason why. Meanwhile an Ooompa Loompa was dancing through the Women 1/2/3’s but couldn’t quite make it to the podium to enjoy a CCC Snuggie! The scarecrow used his brain to win some Mad Alchemy and Tati-bot made his debut. Nixternal is always willing to lend a hand to the 4B’s, even if its only a liquid bandage (when is someone going to bring score cards for face plants??)… but Dave Knauff is a true man for others. As far as we know, #532 kept his cookies down… but it looks like he had some trouble with another sensitive area. Magnum P.I. flew in from Hawaii, but still couldn’t win the heaviest bike award… which went to Junior Ryley Zeller.

– Up next this coming weekend, the CCC heads North to Woodstock where Dr. Jim Kearns and the crew from Psimet Custom Wheels have a few new tricks (and maybe treats) up their collective sleeves. Just a reminder that alcohol is “NOT allowed” in Emricson Park. We know some of you will still sneak in an Old Style or PBR… so please be on your best behavior and clean up after yourselves. Look for the course preview on Thursday at 9am.

– There’s quite a spread in the November Chicago Athlete about the CCC… in fact we’re on the cover! Gihugimous thanks to ABD’s Gina Kenny for helping with our response to the magazine.

– For those of you into photography and bikes (we think there are a few of you out there) Thought You Knew has shot and will be selling their TyK 2011 Men & Women PinUp calendars soon. Check out the FB page here. As the name implies, these aren’t your typical pin-ups and Johnny Sprocket‘s own Becky Welbes is Ms. October. 100% of sales go straight to the Chicago Women’s Health Center in Wrigleyville, a non-profit health care and education center that  has been providing sliding scale care to women since 1975. TyK’s Gala launch party will be held at COOP on Fulton Market on Friday November 19th, followed by a Sadie Hawkins Style Ride on Saturday, and then Bike Polo Friendlies in Garfield Park late afternoon Sunday. So if you’re stuck in the city and not able to race Northbrook, swing down and say hello to TyK.

– In case you were living under a rock last week, we’re sure you’ve all heard that the USAC CX national championships will be held just North of the Cheddar Curtain in Madison, WI in 2012 & 2013. Nationals are also being pushed back to January (they are currently held in December). 2012 races will be held January 4th-8th in the Badger Prairie/Reddan Park. We’re not yet sure what that means for the CCC, but if we were betting people (we’re really not) we’d bet there might be a few more races in the Chicagoland area in December and January to keep everyone’s CX legs sharp and entice non-locals to see how we roll here in the Midwest. More to come later.

– VeloNews recently ran a great article from Leonard Zinn on fork chatter and cantilever brake set-up (specifically series sponsor Avid’s new Shorty Ultimates). VeloNews and others also ran an article detailing a bunch of changes being made to the USAC rulebook. Juniors, Helmet Cam-er’s and Single Speeders will want to take notice.

– And finally… speaking of USAC rules… let’s have a quick chat about hand-ups. Our USAC officials have asked us to remind you that food and drink hand-ups are technically considered feeds in CX, which are specifically forbidden in the USAC rulebook unless allowed and announced by the chief referee prior to the race start due to high temperatures. However we all know hand-ups happen in the CCC and we’re not naive enough to pretend the CCC’s success in the past few years isn’t owed in at least some way to the fun, excitement, and shenanigans that the 4B’s bring to each event.

We here at the CCC think know that cyclocross is supposed to be hard yet fun at the same time… but there always needs to be a good balance between the two to ensure rider safety and to make sure no rider is given an unfair advantage. However, that balance doesn’t necessarily need to be the same in every category due to the speeds (or lack there of) involved. So how do we justify letting Cat 4’s take hand-ups but not the Cat 1/2/3’s? We think neither the “rider safety” nor the “competitive advantage” issues are being violated in the less experienced categories and we and the USAC officials are usually watching closely to make sure things don’t get out of hand… and quite frankly you all do a great job of policing yourselves anyway.

So for those people who may gripe about not allowing illegal hand-ups in the Masters, W123, 3’s, and Men 1/2/3’s… we’ll remind you first that our USAC officials don’t have to allow them at all in any race, and 2nd, there are many races around the country where hand-ups are not allowed at all… even in the 4’s… so we’re all pretty lucky here in Chicagoland. We’ll also remind everyone that non-food hand-ups are technically not illegal (since just about anyone would have a hard time reasoning that a dollar bill is considered a feed)… and from some other grumblings we’ve heard, we’re pretty sure the fast guys and gals would appreciate $20 and $50 hand-ups anyway.

So, to be clear as mud…
Categories higher than 4 = hand-ups not okay
Cat 4 = what hand-ups… we didn’t see any hand-ups…

Great… now that we have that out of the way… let’s go race our bikes and have fun!

– Double thanks to Ted Schweitzer, Verdigris, Jeff Provisor, Main St. Bikes, North Branch Cycling, and everyone else who made this past weekend’s double header a success. The two races were vastly different, but if the comment sections have been any indication, equally fun and enjoyed by all. Carpentersville even got some press in the Daily Herald.

– Notes from the weekend… Johnny Sprockets got new skinsuits, Flannel Mike and Greg got callups, as did guys with helmet cameras, and the racing was exciting all weekend long. Cookie hand ups returned (and were then promptly tossed), as did twinkies and dollar bills. Dave Lombardo finally got that elusive win in the Junior 15-18’s, and Walid hit the podium twice with his uber secret Cannondale prototype. After taking commanding wins in the Cat 4’s on Saturday, we had two riders (Liz So & John Kalnins) cat up and join the Cat 3 ranks overnight… and they road fantastic on Sunday, as did everyone else… which just goes to show that in CX, we’re all winners. Trackies and others still need to work on their handling, as do a few 4B’s, while the juniors showed off their mad BMX skillz, and lest we forget… firemen are strong. And Brian Conant may be the best CX coach in the land, but we bet he can’t dance like this!

– Up next this Sunday is another classic CCC course in Barlett’s Sunrise Park hosted by Athletes By Design (ABD) and promoter Jim Nowak. ABD is increasing the payout, but we all know the real glory is at the top of the original Heckle Hill. As always, look for the course preview Thursday morning.

– Chicagoland local rider and one time CX racer Bill Hatch is battling cancer. The Colavita Cycling Team is holding a fundraiser for Bill on Thursday October 28th at Flatlanders Restaurant and Brewery. Check out the Facebook page for more on how you can help.

– This just in from series sponsor Tipping Point Photography… Any cross racer/cross family/dedicated cross spectator who books a portrait session of 2 or more hours with Tipping Point Photography between now and December 31, 2010 will get a free matted 8×10 of the photo of their choice from that session ($45 value). We are pretty loose in our interpretation of “portrait session”: it could be you with your spouse/partner/betrothed; your children; you and your children; your pet(s); your extended family; or just awesome and fantastic YOU! With your bike, if you like! We are open to just about anything you have in mind that fits this description. (We don’t consider weddings and other celebratory events to be portrait sessions, but we do offer services for these kinds of events, too. Contact us for more info.) Send an e-mail to liz -AT- tippingpointphoto.com to talk to us about what you have in mind, and we’ll pull together a custom quote for you. Make sure to mention this special offer in your message! Check out our Portraits + Stories and our Weddings + Celebrations collections for some inspiration. Gift certificates are available, too, and make great holiday presents, though this offer does not apply for sessions booked with a gift certificate.

– Do you ride a bike on more than grass and dirt and drive a car? Illinois now has permanent, year-round “Share the Road” specialty license plates! Find more details here.

– And finally… for those of you not traveling to Louisville or Wisconsin this Saturday, Burnham Racing is hosting their annual Demilitarized Donut Ride / Apple Haus World Championship this Saturday (10/23) at 7:55AM leaving from Wicker Park in Wicker Park (if water is not falling from the sky). The ride is about 60ish miles with a turnaround and face stuffing feast at the Apple Haus in Long Grove. Leave your knobbies at home and join the Burnham boys on their annual trek to the Northwest for AppleCider Donut bliss.

– Back for their 2nd year, the fun loving crew at Beverly Bike-Vee Pak (who brought you such memorable characters as Geisha) with some help from Psimet Racing (how do you say that anyway?) bring your the rebranded Elvis Cross at Dan Ryan Woods. BBVP tells us the best entrance is off either 83rd street (just East of Western) or 85th and Western. All parking lots will be open.

– Please remember the Chicago Marathon is being run this weekend and starts at 7:30am… so if you’re traveling out of the loop to get to DRW give yourself some extra time. See the course route here.

– Why Elvis? We’re not quite sure ourselves, but BBVP is offering $5 off registration for anyone dressed like Elvis. BBVP didn’t say whether or not you need to dress like young Elvis, in the army, “The King” in his prime, or on his downward slide… but apparently the only rule is this means more than just hair and glasses. The CCC and USAC officials also require that you can see through any eyewear, and can pedal your bicycle without capes, leis, jumpsuits, etc getting stuck in your gears.

– Free fried chicken and peanut butter & banana sandwiches for everyone (while supplies last). The hunka-hunka love would have been so proud!

– Its not quite Memphis, but the weekend weather forecast is calling for sunny skies and 74 degrees. Leave your MAE Madness at home.

– Please remember this race takes place within the boundaries of the city of Chicago which means open containers of alcohol are not permitted… and the friendly park service law enforcers will be there. So remember to use good judgement so that the CCC can return to Dan Ryan Woods next year and for years to come.

– Please remember that the CCC standard payout goes 5 deep. There were several of you who didn’t pick up your cash at Hopkins Park. We’ll have it for you at Elvis CX, but if you don’t pick it up we’ll send it back to Dekalb or donate it to WBR.

– Online pre-reg on BikeReg.com closes tonight at midnight. The 4’s are full (again) but we’ll run wait-lists starting Sunday morning. There’s still plenty of room in all other categories though. Thanks to the 16 of you (so far) who gave a little extra and donated to WBR while registering online.

– If you’re getting to the park early Sunday morning, please let the 40+ racers get their numbers first so they can take their geritol, rub in their bengay, and get warmed up for their race (which starts at 8:45am). The 30+ are next and the rest of you should have plenty of time to get reg’d and warm up.

– The name might have changed but the course is for all practical purposes the same. A lung busting hill, lots of long power straight-aways, and a few off-camber turns to spice it up. The course runs clockwise. Please note that from here on out, to get to the individual race maps (like the map below) from the main CCC map of races you’ll need to click on one of the blue balloons and then the link for “Detailed Map”.