Cyclocross event at Shoreview Park - "It's all hard"

The Shoreview challenge was the first of four events.

Story & Photos by David Carlos

On a sunny, pre-Autumn Saturday with temperatures between 65 and 70 degrees, bike riders were up for the challenge at the Northwest Grand Prix Shoreview.

All the riders chose to walk up the stairs

The event was held from 9am to 4pm on Saturday September 5, 2026 at Shoreview Park, 17229 3rd Ave. NW in Shoreline. The course incorporated several areas of the park and included stairs, sand, grass and sloped terrain.

Obstacles

Cyclocross riders complete multiple laps on a short course featuring a variety of surfaces and obstacles. Depending on the terrain, riders may need to dismount, carry their bicycles and run through certain sections.

The course featured steep hillsides and sharp turns

I spoke with one rider as he watched the other competitors while drinking bottled water. When asked about the most challenging part of the course, he said, “You know, it’s all hard. I’m more of a fitness person, not the technical stuff.”

The ankle bracelet holds a timing chip 

When asked what he meant by the technical portions, he pointed toward a hairpin turn.

“This turn right here,” he said. “That’s hard. I saw some people get off and walk.”

Where did he find himself out of breath?

“Everywhere,” he replied. “See, there are also the stairs right here. Some people run them.”

When asked whether he planned to race again that day, his answer was brief: “No.”

The course was set up with different start time for each category of rider

The event included divisions for beginners, juniors, masters, women, men, nonbinary riders, single-speed riders and elite competitors. No USA Cycling license was required. Junior races were free, while adult registration was $45, with an additional race available for $20.

None of the course was easy

The Shoreview race was the first event in a four-race Northwest Grand Prix series organized by Lemon Peel Productions. The remaining races are scheduled for Squalicum on September 19, Lake Padden on October 3 and Steilacoom on October 10.

The right gear is important

According to Lemon Peel Productions, the series combines elements of European cyclocross course design with the distinctive features of venues in the Seattle and Bellingham areas. The Northwest-based event production company specializes in cycling races and promotes inclusive events for competitors of all experience levels.