Cyclocross Weekend Preview: International, North American, and Velogames – 10/21

2010 NECCS #8 - A. Myerson

Photo by Natalia Boltukhova/Pedal Power Photography/2010

North America

Downeast Cyclocross (C2) - For the first time in over a month, there’s only one UCI race in the US, Downeast Cyclocross in New Gloucester, ME. With several riders deciding to use this weekend as a much needed break, all eyes will be on Justin Lindine (Bikereg/Joe’s Garage) as he attempts to win his fifth straight UCI race on Sunday. Lindine picked up a pair of wins in Providence, followed by a pair in Granouge this past weekend. Trying to stop Lindine will be the usual mix of New England talent and strong Canadian riders. Two riders to keep an eye on are Josh Dillon (RGM Watches/Richard Sachs) and Adam Myerson (Smartstop/MOB p/b Ridley). Both riders have been riding strong these past few weeks and would love to pull of an upset.

Europe

VIII Cyclocross de Medina de Pomar (C2) - As was the case last weekend, this Spanish race should see an influx of a few Belgain riders. Many of the top names who are not racing the World Cup are heading to Switzerland or Luxembourg, which means this race could one for the Spanish. The past few weeks have been dominated by Vincent Baestaens and Sven Beelen. However, both riders are headed to Tabor for the World Cup. Look for Javier Ibanez to finally pick up a victory in his native country.

Internationales Radquer Uster (C2) - Swiss native Lukas Fluckiger will be among the favorites on Sunday in Uster. Fluckiger hasn’t raced much this year, but finished third a few weeks ago in Baden. Due to the World Cup race, there’s a slew of international riders looking to race and they all seem to be heading to Switzerland. Belgian Kenneth Van Compernolle is the highest ranked rider in the field, despite not racing since February, he could be a big threat. Laurent Colombatto finished a very distant 53rd last weekend in Plzen, but the Frenchmen could rebound very nicely in Uster.

GP de la Commune de Contern (C2) - Despite being up against the World Cup race in Tabor, this C2 race in Luxembourg will have a very strong field. Rob Peeters looks to be the man to beat in Contern. Current Belgian U23 champion, Joeri Adams will look to keep Peeters in check and possibly pick up the victory. The real surprise could come from Jan Denuwelaere, who rode a very defensive race en route to a victory in Contern last year.

Velogames:CX

Pavé LeagueVelogames, the site that lets you pick a fantasy cycling roster composed of riders who score points based on their real-world results, has expanded into cyclocross. Sign up, pick your team, and join a league that one of Pavé’s readers started for our community. The league code is: 20033937, and, of course, remember to check back here frequently for tips, picks, and power rankings that will help inform your choices.

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