Kings CX in Mason: A Thrilling Day of Cyclocross Champions!
The air was electrifying at Kingswood Park in Mason, Ohio, as the cyclocross community gathered for an exciting day of races at the Kings CX event. This was no ordinary day; it marked the seventh round of the 2025 North America cyclocross calendar, and the competitors were ready to battle it out on a challenging course filled with twists and turns.
Riders in Action
The spotlight shone brightly on Lizzy Gunsalus from Marian Cycling. She showed everyone she means business by leading a trio of riders into the final lap and sprinting to victory. With just four seconds to spare, she crossed the finish line ahead of Lauren Zoerner of Competitive Edge, who took second place. Zoerner’s teammate, Mia Aseltine, had a bit of an adventure downhill and managed to hold on for third, even after a small mishap. Meanwhile, Emily Shields and Amelia Shea finished closely behind in fourth and fifth.
Gunsalus, the reigning U23 women’s national cyclocross champion, proved she’s a force to be reckoned with. Just last month, she clinched a stage win at the Green Mountain Stage Race for her road team, CCB by Levine Law Group. Clearly, she’s carrying that momentum into the cyclocross season!
In the men’s race, Jules Van Kempen celebrated his debut C1 victory with a dramatic sprint to the finish. He edged out Canadian rider Tyler Clark of Caledon Hills Armada by just two seconds! Briton Tom Scott followed closely behind, rounding out the podium. Calvin Conaway and Ryan Drummond took fourth and fifth, respectively, delivering solid performances.
A Course of Challenge and Excitement
The King CX course was not for the faint-hearted. Spanning 2.8 kilometers, it offered rolling terrain and various challenges, including tricky off-camber turns, a steep run-up, and even a sandy section that tested the riders’ skills. The Cincinnati Cyclocross Festival welcomed cyclists and spectators alike, celebrating one of the oldest cyclocross race weekends in the Midwest.
With the day showcasing such thrilling races, it’s hard to believe the excitement is just getting started! Sunday will bring more races as the weekend concludes with C2 competitions, giving riders another shot at glory.
Tips for Cyclocross Enthusiasts
If you’re inspired by the fierce competition at Kings CX, why not take your bike out for a spin? Cycling is not just about speed; it also requires technique, especially in handling tricky terrain. When tackling a technical section, keep your weight centered and be ready to shift your balance quickly. And don’t forget the basics: a well-fitted helmet is a must for safety.
Conclusion: Keep Riding, Keep Shining!
As the dust settles on this exciting day in Mason, it’s clear that the spirit of cyclocross is alive and kicking. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just thinking about hopping on a bike, remember that every pedal stroke counts. Find your groove, embrace the challenges, and who knows? Maybe one day you’ll be standing on the podium celebrating your victory!
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