E. Conway

Just a quick note to say thank you to all who came out to race. The weather was perfect and everything worked out in the end.

First the hand slap - there were a couple of reports of racers riding 2 or even 3 abreast on the way downhill. The issue seemed to be not so much riding in a group, but that riders were not acknowledging the vehicles behind them or in some cases moving over to help them pass. Also there were a couple of reports of rolling through the stop sign at the intersection of Larch Mtn Rd and Columbia Scenic Hwy. The Fire Department safety patrol was called out. Perhaps it was racers, perhaps weekend riders, but again, we are ambassadors to the sport so hold yourself, other racers, and even just riders accountable for their actions because what each us of does reflects on everyone. Plus the magic permits rely on that. But that was the worst we heard so good job as well!

Enough of that - the good stuff, we are an interesting group, bent on how light one thing weighs, but willing to carry the fanciest gizmo at the same time to beat the other racer yet willing to help that opponent without question. At the start someone had a flat and needed a spare; a tube showed up in moments. Another rider had a wheel with a giant bulge. Someone noted they had a flat wheel and promptly loaned them the tire that went with it noting they couldn't use it. Someone else was helping explain how the starting time worked to a couple of first time riders.

The Team Oregon volunteer corp, along with CMG assistance of Sara Woodcock, Richard Anderson, and the Anderson family were out in full force making one of the smoothest setups we've had and registration was just as smooth. Awesome is not enough.

There are those who promote races, and those who attend races, but neither would be possible without the help and support of those who give up their chance to race by volunteering and officiating. We are a fortunate family in that regard to have such a great group of people who are willing to sacrifice a chance to race so others can. I've said it before, but after Elkhorn last month and now OUCH, believe it should be said again -

thank you volunteers, support folks, family, friends, and officials who help make OBRA possible... you are the best!