Canada’s cyclocross team is gearing up for its annual Christmas Cross stint in Belgium, with the block of races kicking off December 17 and running through January 5.
It’s known in CX as the Belgian kerstperiode — the cluster of World Cup and top‑level races that run through Christmas and New Year. Riders and fans alike look forward to this stretch because several big races happen close together on the calendar and geographically near each other, making it one of the sport’s most intense holiday periods.
Junior Émilien Belzile on the shock of first Euro ‘cross races
For Canadian riders, it’s a chance to test form, gain European experience, and ride against the sport’s best before the second half of the season. For several years, Cycling Canada has been sending riders to get invaluable experience in the tough Euro races.
The team will face five World Cup events, including Antwerpen, Koksijde, Gavere, Dendermonde, and Zonhoven. They will also race several UCI C1 races like Superprestige Zolder, Diegem, X²0 Baal, and Gullegem.
Junior Rafaelle Carrier continues to impress – against the elites
The roster blends experience and fresh talent. Returning riders will guide newcomers through technical European courses, night races, and fan-packed venues that have made the holiday series a staple on the cyclo-cross calendar.
Cycling Canada’s ‘cross coach, and former racer himself Michael Van Den Ham said, “We’re excited to watch each of them compete against the best in the world. Many are racing in Europe at a World Cup level for the first time, and, as always, Christmas Cross is a chance to grow and come back stronger.”
Team roster:
Alexa Haviland, Claire MacKinnon, Clare Hauber, Elly Moore, Émilien Belzile, Evan Moore, Farland Lamont, Grayson Franks, Nico Knoll, Rafaelle Carrier, Remi Brisbois
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