GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. — The third annual Grand Valley Cyclocross Series will kick off with amateur races 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 22. at Sherwood Park. Local pros will head out starting at 11:15 a.m.

Cyclocross has become a very popular form of bicycle racing across the U.S., according to local cyclocross organizer Kristy Driver. Races usually consists of many laps around a short course featuring pavement, wooded trails, grass, steep hills and obstacles requiring the rider to quickly dismount, carry the bike while navigating the obstruction, and re-mount.

This weekend's course starts at the south shelter and weaves around the park for 1-2 miles.

Organizers expect the Grand Valley Cyclocross Series to draw more than 500 competitors from western Colorado. Athlete categories are Men's, Women's, Masters (40+), 4 Person Teams and Juniors. This year, Livetrainrace.com and Chamberlain Architects will sponsor all Junior racers with free admission. Pro racers Conor and Kevin Mullurvy will be hosting a 20-minute cyclocross skill clinic at 9 a.m. prior to each race in the series.

The five-race series schedule with start times can be found at www.livetrainrace.com.

For more information, call LTR Sports at 970-257-7678. Racers are encouraged to pre-register as space in each category is limited.

GO&DO WHAT: Grand Valley Cyclocross Series kick-off WHEN: 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 22 WHERE: Sherwood Park INFO: www.livetrainrace.com, 970-257-7678