LONGMONT, Colo. (BRAIN) — Two-time world champion Sven Nys will defend his CrossVegas title this year at the Las Vegas race held during Interbike.
Race organizers announced Tuesday that Nys has committed to attend the event. Last year he won while wearing the world champion's rainbow jersey. While he is not the world champ this year, he will race in the Belgium champion's jersey.
"I had a great time racing CrossVegas last season, I was pleased to win but more than that I enjoyed the exciting atmosphere and the big crowds. It is a great spectacle for our sport and an important early season race on the world calendar, " Nys said.
The race is Sept. 10. Nys expects it to be his only U.S. appearance this year. He will return to Belgium immediately after CrossVegas to start the European season.
"CrossVegas presents a great version of our sport that is perfect for the time and location. I understand there are some new course elements proposed for this year that should make it even more challenging," he said.
Nys will be joined again by his Crelan-AA Drinks teammate, Sven Vanthourenhout, who placed 36th at CrossVegas last year.
Race director Brook Watts said that additional rider announcements will be made in the coming weeks in both the men's and women's fields.
