Sandpoint Cyclocross race a huge success

 SANDPOINT — The first-ever Sandpoint Cyclocross Fall Classic was a huge success recently for local racers as well as for the University of Idaho Vandals.

The event drew more than 100 riders to the new course at the University of Idaho property on Boyer, which also includes an 18-hole disc golf course.

Cyclocross is a fall tradition closing out the road bike race season with some fun in the mud on a road bike. Combining road riding with trail handling skills, Cyclocross takes riders through a mixture of obstacles and mazes for a fun and spectator friendly event.  

The University of Idaho Sandpoint’s tree research projects of the past provide a colorful and challenging course for all levels of riders.

The race attracted 108 riders, including 46 local participants. Noteworthy finishes of local riders who placed highly included: Wayne Pignolet, 2nd Master Mens 50 plus; Julie Meyer 2nd and Arlene Cook, 3rd Women Masters 40 plus; and Justin Jensen 3rd Men Category 4.  

The University of Idaho Collegiate Team fared well including: coach Matt Mora, 1st Master Men 50 plus; T.J. Anderson and Neal Joslyn finished 1st and 3rd; with WSU Cougar racer Ryan Bibko in between finishing 2nd.

 In Women Collegiate, Vandal Andi Oden bested the field for first place. Complete results, including many other locals, are posted online at “www.Emdesports.com.”

Local enthusiasts created the course at the Sandpoint campus located on North Boyer. The Cyclocross course is open for riders to try at the multi-use facility located on North Boyer near the Sandpoint airport. Signs direct riders around the course.

The race benefited Team Autism 24/7. Organizers would like to thank University of Idaho, Sandpoint as well as local event sponsors Pend d’Oreille Winery, Eichardts Pub and Grill, Competitive Instincts, Outdoor Experience, Greasy Fingers, Sandpoint Sports, Sports Plus, Schweitzer Mountain Resort, Safeway and KFRY.