Fischer, Jim E (Corvallis)
Mike,
I'm replying to your request for longer SS courses.
When SS was first introduced, we thought, as you suggest, that the SS
racers were simply the hardcore XC racers looking for a challenge. They
wanted longer courses, so we had them race the long course.
After a year or two, other racers in the less competitive geared fields
wanted to try it, but were daunted by the longer brutal courses. So we
shortened the courses in general and had the SS race with the sport
class.
Then, since the original group didn't like that, we added both - short
and long. The shorter course is for the newbie SSers who want to cut
their teeth on a shorter more friendly course.
The real SSers still race the longer Expert loops. The course distances
used to be simply three lengths - Beginner, Sport and Expert (incl
pro/semi-pro/elite).
So I think, in effect, this is still the plan. Some promoters may
deviate from this, since it's not a rule nor even really a guideline.
Thanks for your input.
Regards,
Jim Fischer
OBRA ATB Representative
Date: Thu, 10 Feb 2005 11:41:39 -0800 (PST)
From: Michael Benno <mbe-@yahoo.com>
Subject: Re: [OBRA Chat] who exactly has a problem with our mt bike
series?
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I really have enjoyed the MTB series that I have done here so far, just
wish more people showed up.
However, I would recommend that you have a single-speed (SS) class in
the Elite rather than Expert. In my experience racing single speed in
the North Central region (MN,WI). We see single speed fields of 15-30
riders. Most of these riders in SS are former hardcore racers that are
looking to do something different. We prefer the longer distances
because then SS become more competitive againts the geared bikes. So my
suggestion to you is to consider moving the Expert SS into the Elite
race/distances. You may even consider moving the sport SS into the same
race. You may find you get more turnout for SS class this way.
Also, I would recommend awarding prices for overall race ranking rather
that just within the respective class. Nothing is more satisfying
beating a bunch of geared bikes with only one speed.
Just my .02.
PS, I really have enjoyed the MTB series that I have done here so far,
just wish more people showed up.
Mike Benno