Swedish 'cross moves forward

Swedes who want to have fun on a 'cross bike this fall will be pleased with the national series, the Northwave CX Cup, featuring eight races plus the national championship.

The first leg of the series was held in Norberg, with Jens Westergren (Falu CK) winning ahead of club mate Magnus Darwell. Fredrik Ericsson (Team Cykelcity) took third. Fredrik won the series last year but might not have quite adapted from his fine road season yet, having finished 20th in the world championship time trial.

The women’s field had no less than 13 participants and ended with Kajsa Snihs (IK Jarl) road pro Sara Mustionen (CK Valhall) and Hannah Myerscough (Trosa Vagnhärad) on the podium. Last year's series winner Alexandra Engen (Jönköpings CK) punctured right after the pits and had a long way to run to get a new bike, finishing in sixth place.

More classes of racing are likely as the interest in the Swedish cross scenes has risen rapidly. This fall there will be a 'prestige' class for men and women, aimed at those riders that want to compete against the elite. For those with more humble ambitions, but still love their 'cross, there are the senior and veteran men's categories in addition to a sports class for men and women wanting to try 'cross on any type of bike. Most events will also have youth classes. [ Courtesy Tomas Nilsson]