We’re pleased to let you know that the 3rd annual Hydra Cross p/b Open Square, an official NCC event, is back this year, in Holyoke’s gorgeous Pulaski Park. Same great race, venue, and grassroots atmosphere, with some new improvements and changes to keep it fresh. This year’s edition will be held on Saturday, September 3rd.
Find this year’s race registration on BikeReg. NCC members can take $10 off by using the code on the discount page. Sign up to volunteer (more info below) and you can race for free.
So, what’s new?
The River Valley CX Series, presented by Shimano
We’re excited to be part of the newest cyclocross series in New England, joining forces with three of the best events in Western Mass–Blunt Park (8/28), Tree House (9/18), and Ghosts (10/2). See attached flyer and follow @rivervalleycxseries on Instagram for more updates and series standings! Winners jerseys will be awarded in all series categories, from juniors to women’s masters’ categories. Follow us on instragram to learn more.
Intro clinic
This year our intro clinic and course recon will take place at 8 am, before the races start, so your guides Emily Curley and Mark Hewitt can take novice racers out on the course. Please spread the word to interested friends and family that Hydra Cross is a great, low-pressure way to learn more about the sport and try it out.
Kids’ race (ages 3-12)
Hydra Cross is a Northampton Cycling Club (NCC) production, and this year NCC will be bringing its fantastic kids cross program to Hydra, with a free race for kids ages 3-9 on a smaller, kid-specific course at noon. You can sign your kid up at the race or on our bikereg page. This is the same kids’ race as at Northampton International.
Better turns, a little more power, challenging off-cambers, and a run-up!
This year we’re upping our course design game and we’re excited to carve some new features and lines out of our riverside venue. You’re not going to want to miss what we’ve got in store for you.
More reasons to volunteer
Our race isn’t possible without volunteers, and we have lots of ways for you to get involved. This year we’ve got more incentives and rewards for our volunteers–including free race entries, free food, and free beer. Read more about the details and please consider signing up for a small job. Got questions about volunteering or incentives? Don’t hesitate to email Justin at eichenlaub@gmail.com. Volunteering at Hydra Cross counts toward your racer rewards if you are participating in that program.
We can’t wait to see you early next month.
