Steep hills to climb, beautiful forestry to ride through and a great downtown area to finish at are all reasons the annual Jingle Cross race is such a success in Iowa City every year.

Now, the city wants to add an even bigger event to its resume.

A delegation from Iowa City made the long trip to Koksijde, Belgium in October and submitted a bid to host the 2016 World Cup of Cyclocross.

The city is hoping the success of their annual Jingle Cross race, which takes place this weekend, can convince the decision-makers Iowa City is worthy of hosting the race.

Jingle Cross is one of North America's most popular cyclocross events.

The World Cup of Cyclocross takes place every September.

A decision will be made by January.

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