XC Racing Schedules

At one point in the distant past, the NORBA series of mtb races ruled the world. The European riders came HERE to race the best. And we were the best. So while this series, now called the PRO XCT is the premier U.S. series, it no longer commands the best of the best. That is reserved for the Euro-centric World Cup.

But, there are plenty of talented and die-hard racers who race many of these and truly love the sport.

USA National Championships

• So many dates!

Kind of crazy, but the US champs races for cycling started back in February! There are races basically all year long. For 2023 the XC races all happened on July 10 in Pennsylvania. Click here for the official page for the XC events.

By now you probably know that Christopher Blevins brought it home and is the 2023 Champion in the Short Track. The two Rileys took the rest of the podium. But what caught my eye is Casey Hildebrandt from Wisconsin! He’s a top Pro finisher in the WORS series that I attend all summer long. In fact, he just got 5th place at the XCO race a few weeks ago at the Red Barn Classic at Trek headquarters.

So to go to the Nationals and grab a 5th place against the nations best is awesome. Congrats!

Pan American Cross Country Cup

• April 2023

A great regional race, now in it’s 26th year! US racers typically do quite well.

2022 Epic Rides Series

A great series of very tough challenges throughout the year and at several locations.

Leadville Race Series

• There are seven qualifying races before the official Leadville Trail 100 race, starting in March. Click here to learn more.
• Leadville Trail 100 MTB Race – August 12, 2023 – Leadville, CO

Chequamegon 40

• September 16, 2023 – Hayward, WI

One of the oldest organized MTB races in the country. This race has legendary status for us midwestern old-timers. I finally took a shot at it for the 25th anniversary race. Greg Lemond came over from Minnesota and rode the race with his son. I loved it, and had probably one of my best days on the bike for some reason. I hammered the entire 40 miles.

My goal is to return for another try in 2024. Some pretty big name US racers will be at the front once again.

Iceman Cometh Challenge

• November 4, 2023 – Traverse City, MI area

Another upper midwest classic. This race along with Chequamegon has been a must-do event for many years. It draws some pretty well known US professionals every year.

I did this one time back in 2016 and unlike the best day on a bike at Cheq, this was my worst day. I was out of shape, and the weather was so bad I ended up taking 5 hours to do a 3 hour and under race.

I have signed up for this year’s waiting list, if I don’t get in, I’ll try again next year. I must have my revenge.

WORS (Wisconsin Off Road Series, USA)

• May – August each year

One of the oldest state series in the U.S. I started driving the 2-3 hours north a few years ago because I realized how awesome these races are. Very well attended. They have a huge NICA school-age racing program that is paying off. At least half of the racers on any given race day are under the age of 19. Grade school, high school and all the families come out to race XC. It’s extremely cool for an old guy like myself to see this happening. We desperately need young racers to help keep the sport moving forward. There are only so many old people that can keep this going!

And, Trek bought the series from the long-time owner and has really taken it up a notch.

• Throughout the Summer in Switzerland

Since so many of the top Elite racers hail from Switzerland, these races are often just like world cups. They can be found streaming online if you look hard enough.

• June and beyond

Another great world cup level race. Many of the top racers try to grab the jersey each year. Some of the best racers also sit this one out depending on their yearly goals. But always great to watch.