Props to Jeff for treading new water which should be a great addition to the series put on by Portland racing, family friendly, festival style. I might be inclined to agree that maybe the 11 minute lap times are less fan friendly, with larger fields this won't be an issue. So to all those that chose the AFC-NFC champs over this early season flat ground challenge don't make the same mistake twice. Next week we'll be there and hope th rest of OBRA land makes it especially those with kids and juniors. See you at the races
From: rondot@spiritone.comTo: TSchauer@mackaysposito.com; obra@list.obra.orgDate: Mon, 21 Jan 2008 15:30:27 -0800Subject: Re: [OBRA Chat] Vanport Kermesse
I second Tim on his post. Jeff and company are treading new water (or ice depending on conditions this time of year). I am not a roadie but really appreciate the tactics and equipment choices made by riders in my race. Drafting and light (non fendered) road bikes as well as the higher level of conditioning opened my eyes to the speed of road racing. At this point I do have to point out that Potestio was on a cross bike like myself and he blew me away. I had on road tires and he had on some type of knobbies. I say Rick! You were NOT sprayed with enough beer at the Crusade races this year!
I think that having a closed course where you can go ride hard for three Sundays in the middle of our winter season is worth supporting. The gravel was the most fun for me. If the weather/surface conditions were more toward the slick side, it might even be the least dangerous section of the course. I do not know all the intersecting roads out in that area, but I think it would be better for spectators if there was a way to bring the riders back close or through the start/finish more often. That may not be possible, but it would be more like a cross race where folks could maybe see more of the course. Get more spectators? This idea may not be what this type of racing is about so "just know I am not criticizing". I am planning on doing the next one and being just about as slow as yesterday. Yes it is winter, snow is in the mountains and the warm house sure feels good, but I sure hope this series can catch on and folks come out and have fun. I am going to have more fun this next time even if I finish last again. I know there are some 50+ riders out there that can blow me away on this course... even without drafting!!!! Come on out and burn those lungs!
Thanks again Jeff-n-Crew and OBRA.
ron
----- Original Message -----
From: Tim Schauer
To: obra@list.obra.org
Sent: Sunday, January 20, 2008 7:55 PM
Subject: [OBRA Chat] Vanport Kermesse
I just wanted to extend some props to Jeff Mitchem for putting on a great new race. Keep up the great work Jeff. I hope more people come out to support this race. The Kermesse was a blast. If you are not afraid to ride your road bike on some gravel roads along with a new smooth as glass PIR track, you will love this race series. I think this would be a good race alternative all year long. The course conditions would change during the summer and suit different types of riders. Also, if you dont like climbing races, this is for you too! The big fire pit for warming up before and after and the food (coffee, soup, chili, etc) was a welcome benefit as well.
Tim Schauer
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