Elkhorn Classic Stage Race

Elkhorn Press Release #5 - May Updates
For Immediate Release:

Welcome to the 8th Annual Elkhorn Classic Stage Race - Update #5

Elkhorn World Headquarters - Baker City, OR - 20 May, 2009 - www.ElkhornClassic.com:

Yes Virginia, the latest report from the local riders training daily on Dooley Mtn is in and as noted "Well the snow on the side of the road might not have gone down, but it didn't go up either."  But by the time the 8th riding of the 2009 Elkhorn Classic Stage Race takes place June 19 - 21 in Baker City, Oregon things will have heated up all over as riders make their final preparations for another Elkhorn Classic.

First off a course change! Thanks in no small part to the efforts and coordination with ODOT, Baker County Sheriff's deputies, Baker City Police Department, city officials, Baker Loves Bikes, and volunteers we are VERY pleased to announce that we are finalizing plans for Saturday morning's Stage-2 Pleasant Valley Time Trial to start and finish in downtown Baker City!!!! Those familiar with the race know that for several years the stage was run on the NW edge or town and more recently approximately 10 miles south of town at the Thunder Mountain Speedway along Old Hwy 30. The new course change will allow racers to setup trainers along Main St  right across the street from the finish watching other racers cross the line before soft pedaling just 2 minutes East to the Start House. Riders will proceed on Elm St then to the out and back turn around in Pleasant Valley still along Old Hwy 30! With spectator friendly room along what will a few short hours later be the afternoon criterium course, friends and family can jump for joy at their racers, before settling in for the 12:30pm Leo Adler parade. This gives the Pleasant Valley Time Trial a whole new meaning!!! A special thanks to the local law enforcement officials who are working to make this happen.

Another course note: Due to ODOT schedules and grant programs, the Dewey St underpass of the Southern Pacific railroad lines will be closed and require use of an alternate path out of town on Sunday morning's Stage-4 Dooley Mountain Road Race. A neutral start will be enforced until the city limits sign to avoid traffic congestion and road construction.

Though Elkhorn is sanctioned by the Oregon Bicycle Racing Association, over half of our riders attend from all over the Western United States, and Canda. That said, we'd also like to remind riders that while many people are unsure about their 2009 race schedule, there is still a field limit for all categories so don't be left out by waiting until the last minute. Traditionally, most Elkhorn riders register within one month of registration deadline, but both the Masters, and Cat 4/5 fields tend to fill the quickest and are leading the way again.  Team discounts are still available for men-only, women-only, and mixed-gender teams all donning the same uniforms and with an improved team signup it's even easier. Several teams and groups have inquired and found host housing or rentals in order to stay/room/bond/plan/strategize, or watch TV together. Let us know if you need help finding lodging. The RV park, school grounds, and school gymnasium offer affordable options along with the traditional lodging options in and around Baker.

We are again proud to remind not just bicycle racers, but cyclists of all kinds that the efforts of the local community to help embrace and expand cycling of all disciplines is demonstrated no where better than the establishment of Baker Loves Bikes. Created by local community and business members, this grass roots effort currently awaiting 501(c)3 status approval is dedicated to helping cycling in all forms in and around Baker County with it's flagship event the Elkhorn Classic helping to raise awareness and education of all things cycling. As any community project leader knows, without local volunteers many events would not have the caliber, quality, reputation, and enjoyment, let alone even exist - without their help. The Elkhorn organization, is humbly indebted and honored to be a part of this community.

A reminder that Elkhorn is hosting the 2009 OBRA Stage Race Championships with all OBRA season license holders eligible. The medals will be offered for: Men Cat 1/2, Men Cat 3, Men Cat 4/5, Men Masters 40 - 44, Men Masters 45 - 49, Men Masters 50 - 54, Men Masters 55 - 59, Men Masters 60+, Women Cat 1/2, Women Cat 3, Women Cat 4, Women Masters 40 - 44, Women Masters 45 - 49, Women Masters 50 - 54, Women Masters 55 - 59, Women Masters 60+.

Details of the championship entry: Men are eligible to win the category or Masters field they enter. To assist, encourage, help, aid, grow and confirm Elkhorn's commitment to women's racing, we are offering a unique option for women.  Senior women will be eligible for medals in their respective racing category. As their is no actual women masters field, masters women will be eligible for medals in their respective racing category and as a bonus will also automatically be scored in their age category for the sake of championship scoring. Note: Should a masters age women be eligible for multiple medals, the racing category award will take precedence over the masters category award.

As recent OBRA discussions reflect, there is a dedicated effort to discuss, help promote and advance women's racing at all levels. Elkhorn continues to be part of that by asking what can we do to help make it better and listening to your suggestions. A reminder that while Elkhorn breaks down scoring into Pro/1/2, Cat3, and Cat4 divisions, due to the number of entrants we will start all women competitors in one peloton. Officials and support plan for possible field splits in an effort to offer the most support and coverage, but this format has been the most popular according to feedback and suggestions.

A reminder that along with free host-housing to women only racers and teams, and matching payouts and awards, and multiple scoring options for the OBRA stage race championships, Elkhorn has something to offer women of all ages and abilities. We would like to recognize local community cycling advocate Beverly Calder of Bella in Baker City for once again matching the equity of GC payouts. So many do so much to make these things happen.

We are honored to try and do our part to help women's racing and cycling awareness but as noted by other race promoters, this does not come without a price. The work, sacrifice, and commitments of time, energy, and sponsorships by all those involved are the efforts of far more than just the promoters. Please remember to thank all the volunteers, drivers, feedzone help, registration, spectators and fans, who have allowed our sport go grow as good as it has.

We are currently looking for photographers, videographers, and anyone interested in sending a daily recap to VeloNews.com along with a photo.  VeloNews would be happy to provide photo credit and a byline to the exciting Elkhorn story!

Registration continues at a steady pace and things are falling into place as the race draws near.  Thanks to everyone who is helping to make this race possible!

Ride safe, have fun, see you in Baker City!

Ernie Conway | Race Director | Elkhorn Classic Stage Race | Baker City, OR | June 19 - 21, 2009 | www.ElkhornClassic.com