David Krause

This is to follow up the last post on this topic from Steve,

Steve, I completely agree with you. I think you were referring to me however, with your comment about " please don't do what one poster suggested..." Just to defend my parenting here, and clarify my comments: yes, I was concerned about my son on his first race as any parent would be, but before I sent him out, I did several trail rides with him of greater distance and difficulty than the race course, he had changed numerous flat tires, and I had been guiding him through most of his own bike maintenance for years. Living in bend, he even had the opportunity to participate in mountain bike camps for several previous summers. We went through all kind of scenarios and "what do you do ifs?" before the race. I knew he was ready. My comment about other beginner category riders being helpful was just to say that it gives me some peace of mind knowing we have a great, supportive community of racers. (Not that I was expecting someone else to fix his flat or bail him out) Your kid will hear lot
s of "your doing great!" And "good job! Keep going!", etc. out on the course.

I guess my main point was just that it has been our philosophy to wait until I knew he was ready and would have a good experience before letting him race (solo) rather than shadow-ride. But I have no problem with guys shadowing their kids on their first few races if that is what makes the most sense for your family. The most important thing is that kids have a good first experience, and are able to cross the finish line with pride and a big smile on their face. Once they get a taste of that, they could be hooked for life...