Kinsmen Park on a rainy Saturday set the scene for some exhilarating bike action called Cyclocross that originated in Belgium, and it is the fastest growing sport in the world of bike racing. The muddy conditions added to the excitement of watching racers maneuver this already challenging course. Cyclists raced up and down hills, on grass, mud, paved pathways and even jumped barriers using special hybrid bikes that use knobby tires on a road bike frame. Some of the course requires the racers to jump off their bikes and run with them. The competitors loop this course and each race lasts anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour. Okotoks is the first stop in the Alberta Bicycle Cyclocross Cup for 2015 and the second annual Natural Cyclocross High held here at Kinsmen Park.

Categories include novice first time racers, kids and even elite level pros who've represented Canada at World Cup events. Proceeds from the event go to help KidSport in Okotoks. Rebel Coffee were serving up their special victory blend. Rylie's Cattle Barn and Cobs Bread teamed up to provide beef on a bun. These proceeds, along with the entry fees from competitors, will be donated to KidSport in Okotoks. Last year, racers donated $1500 to this local charity. With 130 competitors this year the organizers are hoping to raise $4000. We hope they reach their goal and more.