And here is the final revision. A great shout out to Jeremy Haynes and Boss Cross. I've known Jeremy for years and I believe he was a key instigator of the entire Cyclo-cross (CX) scene here in the KC, Lawrence, Topeka area. Anytime there's an "underground culture" movement, you can usually trace it to a few and incredibly enthusiastic people who not only liked to watch and participate themselves, but who are able to impress this excitement upon others. This charisma and ability to influence others intrigues a few, who spread it even more. Such was the case when CX was in its infancy in KC back in 2000 (at least in my world). All that I know is that I went from riding long rides in the cold to riding long rides in the cold and then racing this "new" discipline. And now, there's a full schedule of CX events within 50 miles of my house!
In contrast, other areas are just getting started in CX. Still others have not yet had the necessary catalysts step forward.
Thanks to Jeremy and others like Mark Thomas (the man behind the 2000 CX Nationals in KC) CX is here for a long time... Who knows... these two could have influenced those in Lincoln and Omaha, Nebraska and begun the CX craze there too.
