Cyclocross Racing - It's NOT just a short MTB race, right?

Here in CO it seems like the majority of race courses are lots of single-track mixed with some 'jungle-cross' type features. I'm the first to admit that I'm not the greatest bike handler, and these types of courses really annoy me, but that's probably because when I want to spend an afternoon riding single track, I take my mountain bike. Is there anywhere in the country where you're actually rewarded for riding a cross bike? What are the courses like in your part of the world?

Grassy. It's like riding on velcro. Learn to appreciate your local scene.

Waaaaaaaah! Bike racing is hard!

Lot's of mud around here.

Check out some great photos:

http://www.pdxcross.com

there is a course we are on next weekend that is very NON techinical. it definetely favors the fit riders as opposed to the more technical riders. its has long low grade uphill sections, very wide turns and simple barriers.
a mountain bike would slow you down too much on the hills and not give you an decending advatage.

the 2 race courses i've ridden so far haven't been very technical, but the next one is designed by an mtb guy so it's going to be technical.