Jamie Driscoll leads the charge. Photo: Todd Prekaski.
The USGP of Cyclocross continues this weekend with a stop in Louisville, Kentucky. All eyes will not only be on the racers, but the course itself as the world gets a look at the venue that will play host to the World Championships in February. With a C1 race on Saturday and a C2 race on Sunday, this weekend is a pre-Worlds tune up for all involved. As far as the racing goes, Jeremy Powers has a commanding lead over Ryan Trebon in the series and will look to keep growing that lead. Chris Jones, Ben Berden and Tim Johnson are all on the outside looking in. A solid result from any of those riders could catapult them into contention for the overall. Here’s how I think things will play out:
USGP of Cyclocross – Derby City Cup Day 1 (C1)
The Winner
Jeremy Powers – out of the six C1 races held in the US, Powers has won five. The only one he didn’t win (Harbin Park), he wasn’t even there. Powers seems to be on another level this year and looks destine for a win in Louisville. I’m going with my gut and sticking with the heavy favorite.
The Podium
Ryan Trebon – Trebon has had a solid season and is always in contention for the win. Last year he nearly beat Powers on day one and could do the same on Saturday. While it wouldn’t shock me if Trebon won, I think Powers is till one step ahead.
Jamie Driscoll – after capping off a solid weekend in Cincinnati with a win at Harbin Park, Driscoll looks like he’s on some good form. I expect him to ride well this weekend and should podium on Saturday.
USGP of Cyclocross – Derby City Cup Day 2 (C2)
The Winner
Jeremy Powers – last year in Louisville, Powers went two-for-two en route to a USGP overall title. While he’s not unstoppable, I expect Powers to be victorious both days this weekend.
The Podium
Ryan Trebon – Trebon suffered a knee injury in Louisville last year that cost him the overall title and nearly cost him his season. With that bad luck behind him, look for Trebon to land on the podium again on Sunday.
Ben Berden – the veteran Belgian cross racer finished just off the podium last year in Louisville. With the strong season he’s having I expect him to do a bit better this weekend and finish on the podium on Sunday.