We arrived earlier today to check out the 2013 UCI Cyclocross World Championships in Louisville, KY and here are some initial impressions.

It is actually quite an honor that a US city finally gets to host this prestigious event, and indeed since these World Championships started in 1950 only European countries had managed to be involved.

In addition to the various Elite races which are yet to come, there is also an ongoing Master Cyclocross World Championship event, but the racing action there is about half a mile away in a much muddier area.


All images © Herbert Krabel / slowtwitch.com

The WD 40 power wash station was very busy the last couple days.

At 2pm the Elite/U23/Junior World Championship course finally opened for official training.

All the Belgians looked very comfortable in the long sand pit.

No problem at all.

A quick tire pressure adjustment early on.

With utmost focus.

There are quite a few off camber sections to navigate.

Not many folks managed to ride the stone steps, but quite a few folks made attempts.

Sven Nys opted to run this section and we would guess he will do so in the race too.

It is smart to pay attention to the experienced riders.

But try and try they did.

Sven Nys uses a bit of body English on this cambered section.

A popular man wherever he goes.

Action during the Women's Master race.

The hard working machines now await tender care and a lot of water..

Meanwhile at WD 40 the action is still hot.

The tight battle in the Master 60-64 event on a very muddy run-up.

The registration was still busy late in the day.

Richard Fries is the voice of US cyclocross and he is stoked for this race to be in the USA. He will emcee this race.

Some go to the left, the others go right.