Frost Bitten

Frosty Cross started in 2011 and has run annually ever since. Race Director Mark Strub, from Bike Central in Le Mars, explained, "We started with about 30 entrants and have grown to 140 registrations last year. We are proud of that steady growth and grateful to those that have attended in the past. I have been associated with the race every year and have watched it get better and better. We didn't have a clue what we were doing that first year, then we sanctioned the race with USA Cycling and it really took off.

"Our races are at the Le Mars Municipal Park. The building we use for registration is a recently remodeled 1930s stone Work Project Administration project. It sits in the middle of our race course and allows spectators to see 90% of the race from one spot. the park has some ups and downs, plenty of open space, and some wooded areas that we use as part of the race course. It's a beautiful park adjacent to the municipal golf course."

This year organizers have inserted new stairs into the bank of a steep hill. With the remodeling of the shelter and parking area, access to the shelter will be different but will be clearly marked so everyone can find their way. Beyond that, says Strub, "We don't usually publish the new quirks of the course. We like to surprise everyone!"
 
Frosty Cross is stop 13 & 14 of the IACX series, the last weekend of events before the finale at Twisted Cross in Cedar Falls. "We are very happy and excited about that, especially because at Frosty Cross racers get double the points for the series! Hopefully that means more participants and even more competitive races. 

"We try not to target one specific group. The junior races have been great. We added fat bike races last year which was awesome. We hope to appeal to the beginner as well as the experienced racer. We have races for men, women, boys, and girls of all ages. We have competitive races and treat the participants and their friends that come with gratitude and respect. We have a great community here in Le Mars with great support locally for Frosty Cross."

Frosty Cross gets a lot of support from area businesses. The Baymont Inn in Le Mars (712-548-4910) offered a block of discounted rooms for participants who made reservations by the 5th of November. Give them a call even though that deadline has passed -- if rooms are still available the discount will apply. As for food, Strub said, "P's Pizza House has been a supporter since 2011 and offers a fun environment and more than just pizza. Other great restaurants include Archie's Waeside, with the best steaks in Iowa. And 4 Brothers is also a great place. And don't forget the Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor. After all, Le Mars is the Ice Cream Capital of the World and headquarters of Blue Bunny Ice Cream."
 
Le Mars is a ways from Iowa City--nearly 5 hours of driving. But Frosty Cross is quite an attraction, with a strong juniors showing thanks the Central Juniors Cycling Development Team and a level of competition strong enough to attract racers from South Dakota, Nebraska, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and throughout Iowa. Do your best to make it up there!
 
John Stonebarger
Originally published by Goosetown Racing Club