Dec 10, 2025 - Things to Do

National cyclo-cross competitors roll into Fayetteville

Worth Sparkman

A cyclist covered in mud carries their bike on their shoulder while wearing a blue helmet and racing gear during a muddy cyclocross event. Trees with green and orange foliage are visible in the background. — A competitor in the 2021 cyclo-cross World Cup event. Photo: Worth Sparkman/Axios

The USA National Championships for cyclo-cross fire up today in Fayetteville, attracting hundreds of athletes, support crew and fans.

Why it matters: USA Cycling events bring international attention to NWA as a cycling destination and make use of the city's Centennial Park, built for similar competitions.

The U.S. Pro Cup held there in April 2024 drew about 1,200 racers and staff, and generated an estimated $3 million in economic impact for Fayetteville.

Context: Cyclo-cross is not to be confused with mountain bike races, which are occasionally held at the park.

Competitors ride rain or shine and shoulder their bikes up Centennial Park's steepest feature before riding off its steep edge.
Check it out: A beginner's guide video.

State of play: Races begin at 10:20am Wednesday with a round for men ages 65–69 and run through 5pm on Sunday, with the final awards ceremony.

Men, women and junior elite cyclists begin competition on Friday.

What to know: The weather forecast looks great for spectators — sunny and in the 50s — but a slight bummer for the riders. They generally like the track to be a little sloppy so there's some extra traction.

There's no seating and you can watch races from many spots around Centennial Park.

Loud cheering and cowbell ringing are encouraged.

Or, you can stream the races on FloBikes.

What's next: Fayetteville will host the championships next year too, scheduled for Dec. 9–13, 2026.

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National cyclo-cross competitors roll into Fayetteville

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