On Sunday Woodland Park was transformed into a long, muddy and windy course for the final MFG cyclocross event of the season.

The Woodland Park Grand Prix race is the biggest event of the MFG series with 777 registered racers and around 1,000 spectators.

Originated in Belgium, Cyclocross is a form of bicycle racing which takes place on wooded trails and muddy passes with steep hills, sharp corners and lots of muck. Often the racer is required to dismount from their bike and run across obstacles while carrying the bike. The races are between 30 to 60 minutes in lengths and take place in fall and early winter. Given its origin in Belgium, beer plays a big role after (and sometimes during) the events. Often beer is given out as a price to those who win in the various categories.

The Woodland Park GP was no exception. Twenty lucky pre-registered racers were awarded 6-packs of Deschutes Black Butte Porter or Inversion IPA.

Nonetheless, the event was a family affair with the junior category featuring 12-year-old racers and a fun Under 10 race which brought out 40 future racers.

MFG has only been in existence for two years and with the Woodland Park GP they’re finishing up a second succesful year.

MFG Registration official Ken Hillyer said that they’re trying to organize races close to the city and that Woodland Park offers a great location.

“Being close to the city brings out more spectators,” he said. “As a racer it’s fun to have a lot of spectators shouting at you.”

While the cyclocross season only runs from September to November, Hillyer said it takes year-round planning to make the MFG series happen. In a few months they will announce the schedule for the next season.

“We’re hoping for bigger, better, faster , and more next year,” Hillyer said.

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