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MWI Cross cyclists prepare for the start of the race. (Photo by Colleen Herrmann)
Cyclocross racers carry their bikes up stairs. (Photo by Colleen Herrmann)
More than 100 cyclists, from kids as young as 10 to professional cyclocross racers participated in bike races, workshops, health screenings and other outdoor activities at Mitchell Park recently.
“Cross the Domes,” a free event to promote healthy, active lifestyles, was organized by the Clarke Square Neighborhood Initiative, an organization committed to improving the quality of life in the historic Clarke Square neighborhood. Part of that commitment includes promoting physical health through activity and working toward a more bike- and pedestrian-friendly community.
This was the second annual Cross the Domes event in which the Clarke Square Neighborhood Initiative partnered with MWI Cross, a group of cyclocross race enthusiasts.
Unlike regular bike races, cyclocross races incorporate obstacles such as stairs, mud and rocks on the racecourse.
“We hope that this is going to be a yearly event,” said Veronica Ortiz of the Clarke Square Neighborhood Initiative. “Working hand in hand with MWI Cross makes it a great event. There is something for every member of the family.”
Last year’s event emphasized fundraising with the funds raised dedicated to adding speed bumps on streets where speeding is a problem. This year, the focus was on building the relationship with MWI Cross and promoting an active lifestyle, Ortiz said.
Ortiz noted that it is important to counter the trend of children spending so much time playing video games inside, rather than doing active things outside. “An inactive person is an unhealthy person. We don’t want to create an unhealthy America.”
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