Crosstober Flash Back to 1994 and 1996

This year's Crosstoberfest is in some ways a return to a classic venue.  Thanks to ASC, we've had one Cross race there this season and thanks to DocKore and Wick, we've all been out there for a few races here and there lately.  Yet, I wager not many folks out there in the Cross community know the historic significance of this park.

Not so long ago in 1994 and in 1996, North SeaTac Park hosted the US National Cyclocross Championships.   I know, I know some of you hard-core "mature" racers out there either raced these race and others of you showed up with cowbells and galoshes to witness the greatness that is a national championship.  I  admit, , that I did not know about cyclocross in 1994 and so am among the least qualified to write a flash back to 1994 and 1996- BUT, I did some digging and found some interesting facts (well, facts until someone else in the know chimes in): 

• In 1994 and 1996, the US National Cyclocross Championships took place at North SeaTac Park
• In '96 here was some hub-bub in the cross media about a hoped for battle between Dale Knapp and Craig Undem (those names sound familiar?)
• Speaking of names, Dan Norton crushed his category taking first in Master's Men 45+ in '96.  Selected results here.  Tim Rutledge did the NW proud too!
• In '96 racers had to deal with true Northwest Cross weather; rain and 45 degrees makes for one muddy, slippery, wet, cold race.   Bring it.
• The 1996 race was Allison Dunlap's fourth cross race and she finished third.  I recognize a couple other women on these results:  Beth Lyndon-Griffith and Ann Knapp to be specific!
• Jonathan Page won the Junior men's under-23 title in 1996. 
• If music were played during the 1996 race, we'd all be listening to No Diggity, The Crossroads, the Macerena and California Love.  Some might say these tunes would have been a step up from 1994's I Swear (All 4 One) and Ace of Base classics All That She Wants, The Sign and Don't Turn Around.

If you have photos and/or stories about some old school racing at North Seatac, either post them on the comments or just post a note that you want to post them and we'll be in touch.