November 5, 2009 (Northampton, MA) – With only days left until the Verge NECCS returns to action, organizers of the Cycle-Smart International are putting the finishing touches on what will be a great weekend for both racers and spectators alike. The 19th edition of the race will be held this weekend at Look Park in Northampton, MA and comprises rounds nine and ten of the Verge New England Championship Cyclo-Cross Series.

With over twenty years of cyclocross experience between them, course designers JD Bilodeau and Adam Myerson have created a course that takes advantage of Look Park’s challenging features. As in years past, this will be a fast and technical, “traditional New England-style course.” The hallmarks of this course – the steep run up and ride up will make an appearance, as well as the drop off and several raised train track crossings. New for this year, the finish will be moved to the lower level, near the main parking, bringing the action into plain view and making the race much more spectator friendly.

With the relocation of the finish line, the expo area has also moved to the lower level. Given this new space and increased visibility, the exhibitor list has grown; confirmed exhibitors include Mavic, Spooky Bikes, Van Dessel Bikes, Hotshot Café, Northampton Cycling Club, October Handmade Bikes, Ryders Eyewear and Gentle Giant. Also exhibiting will be The Brewmaster’s Tavern of Williamsburg, MA who will be giving away beer to all USAC members who present their licenses or race numbers. Provided, of course, that they’re over 21.

The expansion of the Cycle-Smart International would not have been possible without the help of generous sponsors. Local bicycle shop owner Joe Mai of Joe’s Garage has been instrumental in drumming up community support for this year’s event. Sponsorship for this year’s event comes from Cycle-Smart, Joe’s Garage, Northampton Cycling Club, Ride Noho, Northeast Paint, Litmus Designs, Northampton Coffee and Bueno y Sano.

A final reminder, registration for the Cycle-Smart International closes on Thursday afternoon at five o’clock. There is absolutely no day-of registration so now is the last chance to get a spot on the start line at this New England classic. Registration has gone over a thousand for the weekend and is poised to break the record set last year. Registration is here.

Also, don’t forget about the Cycle-Smart Pick Up Party! This Friday at Cycle-Smart Headquarters in Easthampton, there will be a reception from six until nine pm. There will be drinks generously provided by Ramadon’s Package Store in Three Rivers, MA as well as snacks, friends, pros and cyclocross. Details, including directions and witty banter can be found here.