Montrose Harbor, Chicago

Sunday, December 2, Montrose Harbor is the last event in the Chicago Cross Cup and serves as the Illinois State Championship. No small part of what makes the race a highlight, though, is the venue itself. Mark Zalewski of Spidermonkey Cycling explained: "The sand dunes unique to the area make it different than the rest of the CCC series and many other events in the region. Also, on the lakefront in December the weather is a significant factor — no year is ever similar because of this. In 2014 it was 62 degrees and sunny, while in 2016 snow started after the second category and it became a muddy/sandy wonderland. Plus the city skyline as a backdrop is hard to match!"

When the skies are clear, the views of Chicago from the top of Cricket Hill are unmatched.

Montrose kicks off with the Masters fields breaking in the course for the rest of the racers.

The beachfront cx course offers riders and spectators a unique view of the Lake Michigan shoreline.

In years past course obstacles have included a Hot Tub CX Machine.

Though the course is redesigned each year, you might find barriers set on the uphill for 2018.

Montrose is the Koksijde of Chicago Cyclocross with sand being the dominant feature in most years.

The Cat 4 and Cat 4/5 races are often the highlight of the day as racers and fans line the course to offer encouragement.

8:30am to 4:30pm the Chicago Cross Cup race at Montrose Beach offers 14 categories of great cx competition.

The Chicago Cross Cup is proud to have some of the deepest women's fields week after week.

The Junior fields are among the most competitive in the country.

Cricket Hill offers up just enough elevation each lap to make your legs burn.

The best seats in the house can often be found in the hot tub.

Moscow Mule hand-up anyone?

Winner winner chicken dinner!

The 2017 course amenities included a heated swimming pool.

On a beautiful day you can see for miles across the lake.

Photos and captions thanks to SnowyMountain Photography.

"For this year the course will again feature many of these highlight features, but with a couple of specific items added to mimic the Nationals course in Louisville, since many from our region are planning to attend Nationals two weeks later."

Next year another race will serve as Illinois State Championship, but Montrose Harbor will remain the Chicago Cross Cup Series finale and will still garner plenty of interest. "This year only two categories are locked-up before the race, with some categories separated by only a few points, which will make the race even more exciting. We are also working in a few ideas to make the race even bigger."

Montrose Harbor is 4+ hours driving from eastern Iowa. Current weather forecasts are for temps in the low 40s and light rain. For the latest info check the CCC website. Register online at BikeReg.com.