US Cyclocross Nationals: Spranger bests Zakrajsek in U23 men's title race

Jack Spranger takes the win in the men's under-23 race at the 2023 USA Cycling Cyclocross National Championships (Image credit: SnowyMountain Photography)

Jack Spranger (Bear CX) claimed the men's under-23 title at the USA Cycling Cyclocross National Championships in Louisville in a heated two-man battle on the closing lap.

Spranger and Dylan Zakrajsek (FSA/Van Dessel) traded blows with Spranger taking the lead on the limestone steps before Zakrajsek took over across the barriers. Then, in a series of tight turns, Zakrajsek passed in one turn and Spranger returned the favour, taking a tight inside line to make the pass, forcing his rival into the course tape where he got tangled on a post.

Laura Weislo has been with Cyclingnews since 2006 after making a switch from a career in science. As Managing Editor, she coordinates coverage for North American events and global news. As former elite-level road racer who dabbled in cyclo-cross and track, Laura has a passion for all three disciplines. When not working she likes to go camping and explore lesser traveled roads, paths and gravel tracks. Laura specialises in covering doping, anti-doping, UCI governance and performing data analysis.