Advertisement

Erwin Vervecken leading the 2009 Roubaix World Cup. © Joe Sales

Erwin Vervecken leading the 2009 Roubaix World Cup. © Joe Sales

In a move that is sure to build even greater interest in the largest cyclocross race in America, organizers of CrossVegas are announcing the participation of three-time World Champion Erwin Vervecken.  Vervecken has been one of the Belgian strong men of cyclocross worldwide taking the title in 2001, 2006 and 2007.

In addition to multiple World Cup podium spots,  Vervecken at 37 years old was the strongest man in the Roubaix World Cup last season, taking a clear victory in the penultimate race that finishes on the famous velodrome used in the Spring Classic.

Vervecken commented on his appearance, “ I’m very happy to race in CrossVegas.  I’ve already raced a few times in the States and always like to come back.  When I saw the pictures and videos on the Internet of CrossVegas, I really was excited and hoped to be invited one day.  I like the atmosphere of racing with a lot of cheering spectators around.”

Predicting how CrossVegas will play out brought this response from Vervecken, “I think it’s going to be a tough race with all the Americans who like this kind of racing with a very fast but hard track. The decision is probably going to be made in the final lap but that’s what I like.”

Joining Vervecken on his American road trip will be fellow Belgian and Team Revor rider Ben Berden who has enjoyed a long and successful career that includes multiple podium spots including a World Championship Bronze medal in the U-19 category early in his career.

”Through our sponsorship of one of Belgium’s leading cyclocross squads, Team Revor, we’re incredibly excited to have Erwin and Ben racing at Cross Vegas,” said Charlie Issendorf, Champion System’s Vice President of Sales and Marketing.  “Supporting cyclocross in the U.S. is priority for us and what better way than to have a three-time world champion and a legend of ‘cross competing in America’s premier cyclocross race.”

CrossVegas promoter Brook Watts echoed that sentiment saying “Erwin is a great competitor and an ambassador for the sport we are so passionate about. I’m sure we’ll see many more fans pour out to watch CrossVegas with a field that includes a multi-time World Champion.”  Watts credited Champion System for bringing Vervecken to the U.S. for what is supposed to be his final season,  “Charlie and I have been working on this for some time, it’s great to finally break the news.”

Regarding his final season Vervecken said “It is going to be my last season as professional rider so I didn’t want to miss this event.  It’s my first big goal of the season and I hope I can put this one on my list of career wins.”

Watts concluded by saying, “To have Erwin join us in Las Vegas means we are continuing to grow as an international race.”

Heading into its third year, CrossVegas has become a fixture on the U.S. cyclocross calendar attracting almost 10,000 spectators to the stadium setting of Desert Breeze Soccer Complex in Las Vegas.

The 2009 edition of CrossVegas is scheduled Wednesday Sept. 23rd in Las Vegas following the first day of the Interbike show.

Tickets for CrossVegas are available in advance at BikeReg.com. Avoid the crowds at the gate and purchase tickets in advance for pick up at Will Call:  http://www.bikereg.com/