The 2013 season is already underway, and the first ‘cross race will kick the season off in style. 

The second year of Inside/Out Cross looks to have steadily increased interest around the state, and the first stop of 2013 should be interesting. Riders in the area and from abroad will unhitch their bikes from trainers to do some early race preparation.

While the January 13 date is too early for some, other are looking at it as a chance to build for the early season races in March and April. With a Michigan race calendar that now stretches nearly year round, riders have the opportunity to target specific times of the year. Of course, it’s also just a ton of fun.

Last year some Grand Rapids heavyweights made starts, including Dan Korienek and Craig Gietzen. The series will certainly retain a number of big names from GR, but the success of last season has drawn more riders from around the Mitten to Greenville. Riders from Detroit, Boyne City, Cadillac and Traverse City will all venture south, making Inside Out CX an increasingly tough event for beginners and the elite alike.

Racing starts at 2 pm with a C race, joined by a fat bike division. The A and B race are directly afterward. Day-of registration only, so race predictions are impossible, except to say that Yours Truly probably won’t win.

Best of luck to everyone racing, and of course, check back for a recap, gallery and GoPro footage courtesy of the kolo kam.