Don Hanson

I wish there were more events like this in the US. I understand
that in the "Rest of the World" they often have these events (Cycle
Sportifs (?)) that are run in conjunction with/over the same stages as many
of the stage races and one day classic races. There seems to be
some similar events starting to 'evolve' here-maybe this Tour da Hood could
be ridden like that, too.

What a great idea, giving riders who may not be quite ready to enter a
real super-competitive race the chance to compare themselves to actual
racers on the same course, same day. I've ridden these routes, including
the WyEast course, numerous times, in other races and in my normal (I live
near Hood River and The Dalles) training and I have to say..You won't find
any better riding anywhere. {I am not affiliated with the organizers.}
If I'd never done the routes before, I'd pony up the bucks to have all
that support and on-course preparation done for me..and I would gather a
bunch of fast-riding buddies to see how fast we could cover that
ground...fun stuff. Or just ride out on course and watch, then cruise on
around the routes.
The Sunday downtown crit is great spectating in Hood River..

Don Hanson