A Look Back, Koksijde 'Cross the pond VI

It's a beautiful, snowy day here in Minnesota. As I reflect on my trip to Europe, my 6 week stay in Europe was concluded by staying a week longer than Gavin and Dad, and attending the Koksijde World Cup.

Set on a air force base hugging the North Sea coast, this course boasts long stretches of deep, beach-quality sand dunes spread across climbs, descents, endless off-cambers and 180 degree turns. When the weather is dry the sand is loose and deep, causing ruts that change without notice, stopping wheels cold and bucking riders. When it’s wet, the sand clumps together, sucking energy out of your legs. Regardless, Koksijde provides racers with one of the most technically difficult courses on the world circuit. There is nothing like this in the US, it's a Belgian centric course that is often described as a "specialist course" so I was happy about having one of my better races at 21st. It must be all the snow riding I do in Minnesota. 

Now I'm back in home training in the sub zero temperatures. Gearing up for my next adventure in Belgium, as I have received the honor of being selected for the prestigious eurocrosscamp. This is a very expensive trip, so any help by donating or buying a T-shirt is really appreciated!

Thanks so much to the Segers family for being my everything over in Europe and hosting me for two weeks. You guys are the best! Thanks to RedZone Cycling for all the support this year, and huge thanks to the sponsors who have made this trip possible for Gavin and I. Lastly, thanks to all those who have and are yet to donate.

Descending the dunes Photo credit Jack Chevell

Not everything was sand, the rest of the course was dry and fast Photo credit Patricia Cristens