Christian County High School sophomore Nolen Long recently competed in the prestigious Bommarito Audi West Gateway Cup, a major event in the national cycling circuit held in St. Louis. Known for attracting elite junior cyclists from across the country, the Gateway Cup spans four days and features different challenging courses, each set in various neighborhoods around the city.
Long demonstrated his determination and talent by competing in all four races, going head-to-head with some of the nation’s top junior cyclists. In a highly competitive field of 80 riders, he delivered impressive performances, finishing 15th, 18th, 18th, and 28th over the course of the weekend. His consistent results and ability to maintain endurance throughout the demanding series earned him well-deserved recognition.
The Bommarito Audi West Gateway Cup has been a cornerstone of American road racing for 39 years, making it one of the most anticipated races on the national calendar. The event features a variety of fast-paced courses, including urban circuits that test riders’ technical skills, stamina, and strategic racing ability. Long’s performance in this historic event is a testament to his growing potential as an elite cyclist.
As Long wraps up his road racing season, his focus now shifts to preparing for the upcoming Cyclocross National Championships in December, set to take place in Louisville. Cyclocross, a grueling hybrid of road and mountain biking, presents a different kind of challenge, requiring riders to navigate off-road terrains, including grass, dirt, mud, and obstacles that require them to dismount and carry their bikes. Long has already begun his training for the national event, where he will once again compete against some of the best young cyclists in the country.
In addition to his cycling pursuits, Long is also an accomplished athlete in other sports. He runs cross country for the Christian County Colonels, demonstrating his endurance and versatility as an athlete. His commitment to both cycling and running showcases his dedication to maintaining peak physical fitness across multiple disciplines.
At just 15 years old, Long is already making a name for himself in the competitive cycling world. As he continues to grow as an athlete, his potential is undeniable. His family, including his parents Mike and Mindy Long, have been steadfast supporters of his athletic journey, providing the encouragement and resources needed for him to compete at such high levels.
With the Cyclocross National Championships on the horizon and the promise of more racing seasons ahead, Nolen Long’s future in the world of competitive cycling looks bright. The Christian County community will no doubt continue to cheer him on as he trains for new challenges and represents the region on the national stage.
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