‘Cross nats to Bend in 2009, ‘10

The 2009-10 USA Cycling Cyclocross National Championships have been awarded to Bend, Oregon, the national governing body announced Tuesday.

The ‘cross nationals were last held in the Pacific Northwest when Portland hosted the 2003 and 2004 editions. Since then, the event has been held in Providence, Rhode Island (2005-06), and Kansas City, Missouri (2007-08).

The Bend races are slated for December 10-13 in 2009 and December 9-12 in 2010. Next year, 35 national titles will be on the line throughout several categories, including junior, U23, collegiate, masters and elite divisions for men and women. 
 
“Bend is a special place and our entire community is honored to host the cycling world for the USA Cycling Cyclo-cross National Championships,” said Doug LaPlaca, president and CEO of Visit Bend and co-chair of the local organizing committee.  “Anyone who has visited Bend understands the enormous enthusiasm and opportunity here – not just for cycling and cyclo-cross, but for sports and recreation in general.”
 
Bend also hosts the Cascade Cycling Classic, a USA Cycling National Racing Calendar event.