The 2019 Pan-American Championships alternated between wildly technical, muddy sections of Little Lake Park in Midland, Ontario, with fast, flat sections that left riders physically and mentally exhausted. Maghalie Rochette (Specialized/Feedback Sports) retained her Pan-American title in the elite women's race, followed by American Clara Honsinger, who's having a breakout season. Becca Fahringer rounded out the women's podium. In the men's race, Kerry Werner took his first title jersey with the win over defending champion Curtis White. 

Scroll through the photos from the cold, muddy racing from on-the-ground reporter Molly Hurford.

Curtis White leads the charge with Kerry Werner and Grant Ellwood close behind.

US National Champion Stephen Hyde had a rough start, working to stay connected to the main pack.

Longtime racer Jamey Driscoll's long legs helped on stairs.

White and Werner were the clear frontrunners.

Werner finally got a gap on White in the last quarter lap of the race to take the win.

Maghalie Rochette decided on her strategy early on: Go hard and get a separation early. 

Rochette did have competition in the form of Clara Honsinger.

Rochette's gap steadily grew, and Honsinger was forced to start considering the fight for second and third with Becca Fahringer. 

CX newcomer Raylyn Nuss handled the slick terrain for a sixth place finish.

Sammi Runnels is having a fantastic season, racing her way into seventh place.

Courtenay McFadden had a rough year in 2018 but she was back on form this weekend in fourth place.

Rochette on her way to the finish line.

The full podium of junior, U23 and men's and women's Pan-American champions.