By Jason McDowell Creative Director Published Aug 21, 2023 at 12:56 PM Photography: Zachary Seib Photography

Hill Bill: Volume 3 returns to the Rock Snow Park (sans snow this time of year) on Sunday, Sept. 17 as a part of the Wisconsin Cyclocross Series

Cyclocross (also shortened to "cross" or “CX”) is a type of short-form bicycle race that sends riders on laps that weave and turn over mixed terrain – such as grass, mud, pavement and sand – and often include other obstacles that require participants to dismount and carry their bikes. You might imagine a combination of road biking, mountain biking and a mud run.

Recap from Hill Bill: Volume 2

Hill Bill has become renowned for its toughness, but the race course will continue to evolve to add more distance and a few more twists and turns to each lap, take advantage of more of the features in the area and provide a few more seconds of respite between each of the challenging hill climbs.

Several women competing in a cyclocross race.X

Like the previous two iterations, Volume 3 will feature fun for riders and spectators alike, with plenty of challenging racing throughout the day for all ages and skill levels. Participants can compete for points or prizes, challenge their friends or just race for the fun of it. There are 18 different categories, each divided by age, skill and gender, so participants can choose which race they are most comfortable in, including an introductory under-9 cyclo-tots course.

Plus, there's the return of the Hugh Jill Fat Bike race – made possible through a partnership with Wheel & Sprocket

Cyclocross racers struggling up a run-up.X

Spectating is free. Onlookers can walk the course, enjoy the view overlooking the root river and see the action from virtually any angle on the course. 

Participants can save $10 on their entry by pre-registering. ZOA Energy Drinks will be sampling at the event and Chiros in Motion will offer a variety of on-site massages, manipulations and treatments. Taco Barrio will be on hand to purchase, and additional beverages can be purchased at the Rock Snowpark ski lodge. 

Youth cyclocross racers turn around a switchback.X

Races for all ages, genders and skill level happen throughout the day. New participants will want to choose amongst the Junior or Category 5 races. Almost any style of bike is welcome. Lycra not required. For more information, visit wicxseries.com.

About Wisconsin Cyclocross Series 

The Wisconsin Cyclocross Series is organized under the Wisconsin Cycling Association and USA Cycling and strives to create a unified series of autumnal, unique off-road racing for all ages and skill levels. For more information, visit wicxseries.com.

Jason McDowell Creative Director

Jason McDowell grew up in central Iowa and moved to Milwaukee in 2000 to attend the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design.

In 2006 he began working with OnMilwaukee as an advertising designer, but has since taken on a variety of rolls as the Creative Director, tackling all kinds of design problems, from digital to print, advertising to branding, icons to programming.

In 2016 he picked up the 414 Digital Star of the Year award.

Most other times he can be found racing bicycles, playing board games, or petting dogs.