Brunner and Bakker Claim Victories at Rochester Cyclocross
Rochester, NY – Eric Brunner and Manon Bakker emerged victorious in the elite C1 races at the Rochester Cyclocross on Sunday, marking the second round of the US Cyclocross Series. Brunner (Easton/Savege New England/Quintessential) bested US cyclocross champion Andrew Strohmeyer (CXD TREK Bikes) by 11 seconds, while Tyler Clark secured third. Bakker’s win further solidifies her position as a dominant force in the series.
The rochester Cyclocross, a key event in the US Cyclocross Series, draws top riders vying for valuable UCI points and series rankings. These races are crucial for determining national championship seeding and potential international team selections. With the series continuing next weekend,these results set the stage for a competitive battle throughout the season.
Brunner and Strohmeyer moved clear of the field, with former Canadian U23 champion Tyler Clark chasing solo.A chase group including Scott, Kerry Werner (VeloMafia), Zakrajsek, and Tofik Bashir (CXD Trek Bikes) fragmented under the pace.
With three laps remaining, Brunner attacked through the start-finish line as Clark threatened to close the gap. In the final two laps,Brunner and Strohmeyer exchanged surges,maintaining their lead. Brunner ultimately created a small gap on the bell lap, carrying it to the finish line. strohmeyer finished second, 11 seconds behind, and Clark rounded out the podium.
