ROUND TWO – Een Tweede Ronde aka Xan Crees’ Second Year

Much has changed in the year since cyclo-cross champ Xan Crees launched her own team; much has stayed the same. And the pressure remains. Peter Barnes brings us up to speed…

Originally launched as OGT p/b USE, Xan Crees’ team is undergoing a rebrand. Xan Crees Racing (or X.C Racing for short) is heading into its second season – and looking ahead to the fruits of their labour.

Crees – who is also a gravel champ – is now riding full-time thanks to the support of the team’s sponsors. And, of course, that brings growth opportunities, although the pressure of running her own team remains.

In the future this will continue to grow as Crees is looking to expand the team to bring in additional riders alongside herself, and to give the same opportunity to ride a full-time cyclo-cross season, from which she is currently benefiting.

On Saturday 3rd October, the second season was launched at an exclusive event – a time to reflect on the previous season, riding as national champion and defending the jersey in South Shields (where she came second), with a chance to look forward to the upcoming season.

And there will be many races to come, from the National Trophy in Derby, to races in Europe including the World Cups. The season will even feature a World Cup in the UK, as Glasgow will host one of the rounds.

Xan Crees will critically have the support of returning sponsors HUNT (wheels), Van Rysel/ Decathlon UK (bike) and Worx. Also joining the sponsor roster are CAMS, Gobik and Yelo Bike Club, as well as technical partners USE, Exposure Lights, Lake Cycling, FlyCarb and HJC – all providing essential support to the team.

Shortly before the launch, we spoke with Xan Crees:

“The last year has been a whirlwind! It’s been a challenge, but over the last 12 months I’ve reached a point where this is now my full-time job! I’m incredibly optimistic with the step-up in the set-up this year, and I intend to keep building the set up to be able to support another rider!

With the return of the World Cup series to the UK at the Glasgow World Cup, it’s an exciting time for cyclo-cross in the UK. I cannot wait to race in front of a home crowd!”

For fans of cyclo-cross, the Derby round of the National Trophy will be featured shortly after it takes place on 18th October.

Photos: Xan Crees