First off - best of luck to Nathan Hobson's well run Mt Tabor racing tomorrow followed by the ever splendid Willamette Valley Cycling Team hosted TTT which as Tim Schaur mentioned is indeed one of the best photo ops of the year. Nothing says team spirit and pride like the BANNER size photo of the rolling power of a good-looking uniform-matching crack-squad of racers zooming along. Good luck and have fun.

Meanwhile - back at the ranch some important updates: 

Making a game day decision about racing a one day event sometimes happens, but as Matt and Chad noted, when it happens in quantity, it can place events in jeopardy. Elkhorn racing rolls off the starting line in 28 days. That's 4 weeks from today. Don't delay - send your registration on its way!!!!

We have answered the call of women racers for number of fields, scoring, housing, and payouts. However, we only have 14 women signed up and unfortunately as noted by the amazing folks at Mt Hood Cycling Classic, waiting can make the future of this field (or any one for that matter) uncertain. Please pass the word to sign up and come on out for another amazing year. 

Last year, we experienced over 250 riders trying to register in the last 10 days. Whew!! Great numbers, but some fields closed, waiting lists started and folks were working to make last minute adjustments. Be a planner :) Final payouts will be adjusted and pro-rated based on schedules and final rider numbers. With trophies ordered and bottles getting printed - oh my. Here we go.

Each year we have built on the prior year to make changes, smooth the process, and develop an increasingly better race. The work of the community of Baker City, and our OBRA officials reflect that effort and were therefore so pleased to be included as one of the top VeloNews recommended stage races in the U.S. following in and joining the hallowed footsteps of MHCC and the Cascade Cycling Classic. Humbling to be in such quality company. So pass the word that signing up earlier helps us out later.

Registration increases as of 12:01am Tuesday June - 1. Pre-registration closes the Monday prior to racing. We are looking into an unheard of "day of registration option" for Elkhorn for fields that are not full, but why do that when you can save some money, time, worry, and everything else and instead sign up early.

Team registration and discounts are available. Housing options are very limited but has become a very attractive option for teams, groups, couples, and even individuals looking for something different than just traditional lodging. Why and how has this been so popular? Because the community loves Elkhorn for the value racers, teams, and support bring in, and for the respect, professionalism, and kindness we return. It is something we should be proud to be a part of.

So pass the word, make your plans, and sign up now. Thank you OBRA - for nine year of wonderful help and support. We're proud to we're a part of OBRA - "The Power behind Oregon Racing"

Good luck this weekend!!!

Safe and fun riding,

Ernie.

Ernie Conway | Race Director | Elkhorn Classic Stage Race | Baker City, OR | June 18 - 20, 2010 | www.ElkhornClassic.com