The World Cup Comes Close to Home

Caelyn Bailey's favorite thing about the World Cup races at Jingle Cross and the Trek CXC? "The experience of being on the same course as the professionals."

Caleyn should know. At a 'cross racing age of just 13 she's already raced at Jingle Cross and Trek CXC three years running.

"If you are just starting out, I would recommend starting in a more local race," says Spin Devo's Junior racer, "because most people that race in a World Cup event have had more experience. However, World Cup events help fully embrace the cyclocross atmosphere. Local races are easier but you can always learn something new at a world cup event."

Caelyn's mother, Brooke Bailey, was a founder of the Spin Devo development team in Mason City. She also races single speed and masters.

"We absolutely love the World Cup events and we feel very fortunate to have two right in our backyard," said Brooke. "I don’t know of any other sport that is so friendly; where pros and amateurs commingle.
"Our Juniors seem to thrive in these environments! The stories about eating breakfast with Wout and sharing pizza with Katie Compton and Katie Keogh resonate all year, if not through their lifetime."

"The Compton/ Keogh camp is one of my personal highlights of Trek," said Caelyn. "I always learn something new.  The competition at a world cup event is much different then a local race. The atmosphere and race brings a closer experience to nationals than any local race."

"The kids are on the edge of exploding," said Brooke. "They look forward to these race weekends all year, a great time with the team and a time where they feel 'so close to pro.' To me, that is what it’s all about: fostering a wonderful environment where the kids can bloom."

"In my opinion, these events bring the future of cycling and cyclocross to light. I love when a bystander asks about this 'cycling thing.'  It’s clear that opportunities in cycling are spreading in the US, and it's rewarding to be on the brink of that movement!"

Trek CXC is run on the company's factory grounds. Their "Factory Hill" does not lie.

There's still time to register for both Jingle Cross and Trek CXC, whether you're a Junior, a Cat 5, a wannabe pro, or a Masters racer. Then again, you can also just come watch and cheer us on.
If you're in the Iowa City area, Jingle Cross is still looking for volunteer help this week and through the race weekend.  Come help make it happen!