OBRA History and a little comparison

eric aldinger

2013-02-09

I know for a fact Kenji is earning six figures from his OBRA salary.
Granted most of those digits are on the right of the decimal, and there is
a negative sign in there somewhere.

On Thu, Feb 7, 2013 at 9:03 AM, Seth May wrote:

> As some of the numbers I put together for the officials training, I also
> do a comparison of OBRA and USAC numbers. These are for 2011, since 2012
> isn’t available yet for everyone.****
>
> ** **
>
> Nationally, OBRA Accounts for (2011):****
>
> 7.7% * of all registered racers****
>
> 13.8% of all cycling events****
>
> ** **
>
> * OBRA is likely higher since OBRA is reporting unique riders purchasing a
> yearly license. The USAC counts are non-unique, meaning that a rider is
> double counted if they register for a mountain and road license. ****
>
> Source: OBRA Statistics from Candi/Kenji, USAC 2011 Annual Report****
>
> --****
>
> Seth****
>
> ** **
>
> *From:* obra-bounces@list.obra.org [mailto:obra-bounces@list.obra.org] *On
> Behalf Of *Candi Murray
> *Sent:* Wednesday, February 06, 2013 9:15 PM
> *To:* obra@list.obra.org
>
> *Subject:* [OBRA Chat] OBRA History and a little comparison****
>
> ** **
>
> ** **
>
> ** **
>
> I was asked by a couple of riders to detail the history of our
> organization. I have put the following together. There are a few riders,
> older than I that might be able to add to it.****
>
> ** **
>
> The Oregon Bicycle Racing Association (OBRA) was started in the late
> 1970s. Called the Oregon Cycling Association (OCA), it was then the
> district association of USCF clubs. The name was changed to the Oregon
> Bicycle Racing Association several years later to avoid confusion with the
> political group, the Oregon Citizens Alliance which was getting much
> negative media attention.****
>
> There was not much activity for the first few years after OCA was formed.
> When Steve Scarich became the USCF District Representative he pushed to
> increase the strength of the organization. Organization was improved and a
> system of collecting fees from races was established. A few years later
> Mike Murray was elected to the board. Murray wanted more racing in Oregon
> so he turned the focus of the group toward making it easier to produce
> quality events. He bought traffic signs, photo finish equipment, PA
> systems, CB radios and more. Since then OBRA has purchased 3 vehicles,
> multiple trailers, 2 Finish Lynx Finish Line systems and much more. There
> are now supplies of equipment stored in Eugene, Medford, Bend in addition
> to Portland.****
>
> Separation from USCF****
>
> Dissatisfaction with the United States Cycling Federation came on slowly
> and climaxed in December 1998 when they fired all 50 Regional
> Representatives in favor of a plan to only utilize 10 people nationwide to
> service the membership. At this same time alternatives to the insurance
> provided by the national governing body became more readily available and
> the question was asked, 'What is OBRA getting back for the dollars that are
> sent to Colorado Springs?' An annual USCF membership ranged at that time
> from $35 to $50 and then the charge for insurance was about twice what was
> available commercially. OBRA figured that Oregon alone was sending about
> $200,000 annually to USAC in USCF and NORBA membership fees and race
> permits and surcharges.****
>
> In exchange OBRA received little in the way of services and now there
> would not even be a local representative. The straw that broke the back was
> when USAC doubled the permit fees for the weekend day series races. To send
> a message to Colorado Springs the series promoters choose to insure with an
> insurance plan purchased by OBRA and to forgo USCF sanctioning. Letters
> were sent to every USAC board, director and staff member explaining why
> OBRA were doing this and further explaining that it was likely that all
> Oregon events would do this unless USAC made changes to address concerns
> over the diminishing level of service. Only one response was received.****
>
> In the fall of 1998 there was a vote of member clubs that was unanimous
> that the OBRA insurance plan would be offered at all events.****
>
> Success****
>
> OBRA membership has swelled to the highest levels ever when David Beede
> contacted OBRA about branching out into mountain bike racing. The
> dissatisfaction among NORBA members was even greater than that from the
> road/track side. They were able to organize a race series amongst the
> mountain bike races and added them to OBRAs email network. This has given
> them a voice that they have not experienced before.****
>
> The OBRA 2012 calendar had over 338 days of racing, offering discounted
> membership to juniors and strongly suggest that the race organizers reduce
> entry fees for those under 18. The Best All round Competition has expanded
> to recognize the outstanding performances in each discipline , a Women’s
> Series was created and Oregon Cup.****
>
> ** **
>
> According to OBRA statistics, membership has grown dramatically since 2000.
> ****
>
> 2000- 1738 members****
>
> 2001- 1741 members****
>
> 2002- 1978 members****
>
> 2003- 2335 members****
>
> 2004- 2760 members****
>
> 2005- 2828 members****
>
> 2006- 3296 members, 1014 1-day additional memberships****
>
> 2007 -3452, 2157 1 day****
>
> 2008 – 3900, 2187 one day****
>
> 2009 – 4442, 2230 one day****
>
> 2010 – 4909, 3205 one day****
>
> 2011 – 5004, 4018 one day****
>
> 2012 – 5019m 3531 one day****
>
> ** **
>
> According to Velonews (2006)****
>
> Oregon was ranked #2 in the number of cycling events, only 8 races behind
> California.****
>
> Oregon was ranked #3 in the number of amateur racers, behind only
> California and Colorado.****
>
> Oregon was ranked #1 in terms of the percentage of riders vs. state
> population with Colorado coming in over 50% lower in 2nd place.****
>
> ** **
>
> Organization****
>
> ** **
>
> The Oregon Bicycle Racing Association is an Oregon Non Profit Corporation
> that has its Constitution and Bylaws on file with the State of Oregon. The
> business and affairs of OBRA are managed by its Board of Directors. There
> are six members of the Board of Directors. Each director is elected to a
> three year term by a majority of club representatives at an annual meeting.
> Two directors are elected each year.****
>
> ** **
>
> There are five paid positions:****
>
> Executive Director****
>
> Webmaster****
>
> Assistant Director****
>
> Membership Coordinator****
>
> Equipment Manager****
>
> ** **
>
> Fee Comparison****
>
> OBRA****
>
> USAC****
>
> Race Application****
>
> 35****
>
> 25-50 per day + 7% when prize list is over $2000****
>
> Additional Insured****
>
> 5****
>
> 10****
>
> Enndorsements****
>
> 0****
>
> 75****
>
> Insurance****
>
> 1.25****
>
> 3****
>
> Equipment Surcharge****
>
> 0.5****
>
> includes use of all equipment****
>
> n/a****
>
> Admin Surcharge****
>
> 0.6****
>
> na/****
>
> Adult Membership****
>
> 20****
>
> 60-90****
>
> CCX Only Adult****
>
> 15****
>
> n/a, must purchcase full license as above****
>
> Jr Membership****
>
> 5****
>
> 30-60****
>
> CCX only Junior****
>
> 0****
>
> n/a, must purchcase full license as above****
>
> One Day****
>
> 5****
>
> 10****
>
> Team Membership****
>
> 100/35****
>
> $65 refunded if race put on or volunteers****
>
> 150****
>
> Race Director****
>
> 0****
>
> 150****
>
> Mechanic****
>
> 0****
>
> 150****
>
> Coach****
>
> 0****
>
> 150****
>
> ** **
>
> ** **
>
> _______________________________________________
> OBRA mailing list
> obra@list.obra.org
> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org
>
>

--
Eric Aldinger


Seth May

2013-02-07

As some of the numbers I put together for the officials training, I also do
a comparison of OBRA and USAC numbers. These are for 2011, since 2012 isn't
available yet for everyone.

Nationally, OBRA Accounts for (2011):

7.7% * of all registered racers

13.8% of all cycling events

* OBRA is likely higher since OBRA is reporting unique riders purchasing a
yearly license. The USAC counts are non-unique, meaning that a rider is
double counted if they register for a mountain and road license.

Source: OBRA Statistics from Candi/Kenji, USAC 2011 Annual Report

--

Seth

From: obra-bounces@list.obra.org [mailto:obra-bounces@list.obra.org] On
Behalf Of Candi Murray
Sent: Wednesday, February 06, 2013 9:15 PM
To: obra@list.obra.org
Subject: [OBRA Chat] OBRA History and a little comparison

I was asked by a couple of riders to detail the history of our organization.
I have put the following together. There are a few riders, older than I that
might be able to add to it.

The Oregon Bicycle Racing Association (OBRA) was started in the late 1970s.
Called the Oregon Cycling Association (OCA), it was then the district
association of USCF clubs. The name was changed to the Oregon Bicycle Racing
Association several years later to avoid confusion with the political group,
the Oregon Citizens Alliance which was getting much negative media
attention.

There was not much activity for the first few years after OCA was formed.
When Steve Scarich became the USCF District Representative he pushed to
increase the strength of the organization. Organization was improved and a
system of collecting fees from races was established. A few years later Mike
Murray was elected to the board. Murray wanted more racing in Oregon so he
turned the focus of the group toward making it easier to produce quality
events. He bought traffic signs, photo finish equipment, PA systems, CB
radios and more. Since then OBRA has purchased 3 vehicles, multiple
trailers, 2 Finish Lynx Finish Line systems and much more. There are now
supplies of equipment stored in Eugene, Medford, Bend in addition to
Portland.

Separation from USCF

Dissatisfaction with the United States Cycling Federation came on slowly and
climaxed in December 1998 when they fired all 50 Regional Representatives in
favor of a plan to only utilize 10 people nationwide to service the
membership. At this same time alternatives to the insurance provided by the
national governing body became more readily available and the question was
asked, 'What is OBRA getting back for the dollars that are sent to Colorado
Springs?' An annual USCF membership ranged at that time from $35 to $50 and
then the charge for insurance was about twice what was available
commercially. OBRA figured that Oregon alone was sending about $200,000
annually to USAC in USCF and NORBA membership fees and race permits and
surcharges.

In exchange OBRA received little in the way of services and now there would
not even be a local representative. The straw that broke the back was when
USAC doubled the permit fees for the weekend day series races. To send a
message to Colorado Springs the series promoters choose to insure with an
insurance plan purchased by OBRA and to forgo USCF sanctioning. Letters were
sent to every USAC board, director and staff member explaining why OBRA were
doing this and further explaining that it was likely that all Oregon events
would do this unless USAC made changes to address concerns over the
diminishing level of service. Only one response was received.

In the fall of 1998 there was a vote of member clubs that was unanimous that
the OBRA insurance plan would be offered at all events.

Success

OBRA membership has swelled to the highest levels ever when David Beede
contacted OBRA about branching out into mountain bike racing. The
dissatisfaction among NORBA members was even greater than that from the
road/track side. They were able to organize a race series amongst the
mountain bike races and added them to OBRAs email network. This has given
them a voice that they have not experienced before.

The OBRA 2012 calendar had over 338 days of racing, offering discounted
membership to juniors and strongly suggest that the race organizers reduce
entry fees for those under 18. The Best All round Competition has expanded
to recognize the outstanding performances in each discipline , a Women's
Series was created and Oregon Cup.

According to OBRA statistics, membership has grown dramatically since 2000.

2000- 1738 members

2001- 1741 members

2002- 1978 members

2003- 2335 members

2004- 2760 members

2005- 2828 members

2006- 3296 members, 1014 1-day additional memberships

2007 -3452, 2157 1 day

2008 - 3900, 2187 one day

2009 - 4442, 2230 one day

2010 - 4909, 3205 one day

2011 - 5004, 4018 one day

2012 - 5019m 3531 one day

According to Velonews (2006)

Oregon was ranked #2 in the number of cycling events, only 8 races behind
California.

Oregon was ranked #3 in the number of amateur racers, behind only California
and Colorado.

Oregon was ranked #1 in terms of the percentage of riders vs. state
population with Colorado coming in over 50% lower in 2nd place.

Organization

The Oregon Bicycle Racing Association is an Oregon Non Profit Corporation
that has its Constitution and Bylaws on file with the State of Oregon. The
business and affairs of OBRA are managed by its Board of Directors. There
are six members of the Board of Directors. Each director is elected to a
three year term by a majority of club representatives at an annual meeting.
Two directors are elected each year.

There are five paid positions:

Executive Director

Webmaster

Assistant Director

Membership Coordinator

Equipment Manager

Fee Comparison


OBRA

USAC

Race Application

35

25-50 per day + 7% when prize list is over $2000

Additional Insured

5

10

Enndorsements

0

75

Insurance

1.25

3

Equipment Surcharge

0.5

includes use of all equipment

n/a

Admin Surcharge

0.6

na/

Adult Membership

20

60-90

CCX Only Adult

15

n/a, must purchcase full license as above

Jr Membership

5

30-60

CCX only Junior

0

n/a, must purchcase full license as above

One Day

5

10

Team Membership

100/35

$65 refunded if race put on or volunteers

150

Race Director

0

150

Mechanic

0

150

Coach

0

150


Stewart Campbell

2013-02-07

Thanks Candi for this history!!!

Sure, kudo's to our leaders, but also kudo's to all of us!!!

I've been with OBRA for 5 years now, and to see 5000 ppl all get along (for the most part) is truly amazing!  We have to remember that most of us are out there because it is a hobby, a passion.  So lets all try to do our part when we can, weather it be an official, a volunteer, trail building, etc.  Lets just try to keep going what our leaders have created for us!!!

Thanks OBRA (leaders and members) for everything! 

________________________________
From: Candi Murray
To: obra@list.obra.org
Sent: Wednesday, February 6, 2013 9:15 PM
Subject: [OBRA Chat] OBRA History and a little comparison

 
 
I was asked by a couple of riders to detail the history of our organization. I have put the following together. There are a few riders, older than I that might be able to add to it.
 
The Oregon Bicycle Racing Association (OBRA) was started in the late 1970s.  Called the Oregon Cycling Association (OCA), it was then the district association of USCF clubs. The name was changed to the Oregon Bicycle Racing Association several years later to avoid confusion with the political group, the Oregon Citizens Alliance which was getting much negative media attention.
There was not much activity for the first few years after OCA was formed. When Steve Scarich became the USCF District Representative he pushed to increase the strength of the organization. Organization was improved and a system of collecting fees from races was established. A few years later Mike Murray was elected to the board. Murray wanted more racing in Oregon so he turned the focus of the group toward making it easier to produce quality events. He bought traffic signs, photo finish equipment, PA systems, CB radios and more. Since then OBRA has purchased 3 vehicles, multiple trailers, 2 Finish Lynx Finish Line systems and much more. There are now supplies of equipment stored in Eugene, Medford, Bend in addition to Portland.
Separation from USCF
Dissatisfaction with the United States Cycling Federation came on slowly and climaxed in December 1998 when they fired all 50 Regional Representatives in favor of a plan to only utilize 10 people nationwide to service the membership. At this same time alternatives to the insurance provided by the national governing body became more readily available and the question was asked, 'What is OBRA getting back for the dollars that are sent to Colorado Springs?' An annual USCF membership ranged at that time  from $35 to $50 and then the charge for insurance was about twice what was available commercially. OBRA figured that Oregon alone was sending about $200,000 annually to USAC in USCF and NORBA membership fees and race permits and surcharges.
In exchange OBRA received little in the way of services and now there would not even be a local representative. The straw that broke the back was when USAC doubled the permit fees for the weekend day series races. To send a message to Colorado Springs the series promoters choose to insure with an insurance plan purchased by OBRA and to forgo USCF sanctioning. Letters were sent to every USAC board, director and staff member explaining why OBRA were doing this and further explaining that it was likely that all Oregon events would do this unless USAC made changes to address concerns over the diminishing level of service. Only one response was received.
In the fall of 1998 there was a vote of member clubs that was unanimous that the OBRA insurance plan would be offered at all events.
Success
OBRA membership has swelled to the highest levels ever when David Beede contacted OBRA about branching out into mountain bike racing. The dissatisfaction among NORBA members was even greater than that from the road/track side. They were able to organize a race series amongst the mountain bike races and added them to OBRAs email network. This has given them a voice that they have not experienced before.
The OBRA 2012 calendar had over 338 days of racing, offering discounted membership to juniors and strongly suggest that the race organizers reduce entry fees for those under 18. The Best All round Competition has expanded to recognize the outstanding performances in each discipline , a Women’s  Series was created and  Oregon Cup.
 
According to OBRA statistics, membership has grown dramatically since 2000.
2000- 1738 members
2001- 1741 members
2002- 1978 members
2003- 2335 members
2004- 2760 members
2005- 2828 members
2006- 3296 members, 1014 1-day additional memberships
2007 -3452, 2157 1 day
2008 – 3900, 2187 one day
2009 – 4442, 2230 one day
2010 – 4909, 3205 one day
2011 – 5004, 4018 one day
2012 – 5019m 3531 one day
 
According to Velonews (2006)
Oregon was ranked #2 in the number of cycling events, only 8 races behind California.
Oregon was ranked #3 in the number of amateur racers, behind only California and Colorado.
Oregon was ranked #1 in terms of the percentage of riders vs. state population with Colorado coming in over 50% lower in 2nd place.
 
Organization
 
The Oregon Bicycle Racing Association is an Oregon Non Profit Corporation that has its Constitution and Bylaws on file with the State of Oregon. The business and affairs of OBRA are managed by its Board of Directors. There are six members of the Board of Directors. Each director is elected to a three year term by a majority of club representatives at an annual meeting. Two directors are elected each year.
 
There are five paid positions:
Executive Director
Webmaster
Assistant Director
Membership Coordinator
Equipment Manager
 
Fee Comparison
OBRA USAC
Race Application 35 25-50 per day + 7% when prize list is over $2000
Additional Insured 5 10
Enndorsements 0 75
Insurance 1.25 3
Equipment Surcharge 0.5 includes use of all equipment n/a
Admin Surcharge 0.6 na/
Adult Membership 20 60-90
CCX Only Adult 15 n/a, must purchcase full license as above
Jr Membership 5 30-60
CCX only Junior 0 n/a, must purchcase full license as above
One Day 5 10
Team Membership 100/35 $65 refunded if race put on or volunteers 150
Race Director 0 150
Mechanic 0 150
Coach 0 150
 
 
_______________________________________________
OBRA mailing list
obra@list.obra.org
http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org


Dave Campbell

2013-02-07

Yeah!

Sent from my iPhone

On Feb 6, 2013, at 9:15 PM, "Candi Murray" wrote:

>
>
> I was asked by a couple of riders to detail the history of our organization. I have put the following together. There are a few riders, older than I that might be able to add to it.
>
> The Oregon Bicycle Racing Association (OBRA) was started in the late 1970s. Called the Oregon Cycling Association (OCA), it was then the district association of USCF clubs. The name was changed to the Oregon Bicycle Racing Association several years later to avoid confusion with the political group, the Oregon Citizens Alliance which was getting much negative media attention.
> There was not much activity for the first few years after OCA was formed. When Steve Scarich became the USCF District Representative he pushed to increase the strength of the organization. Organization was improved and a system of collecting fees from races was established. A few years later Mike Murray was elected to the board. Murray wanted more racing in Oregon so he turned the focus of the group toward making it easier to produce quality events. He bought traffic signs, photo finish equipment, PA systems, CB radios and more. Since then OBRA has purchased 3 vehicles, multiple trailers, 2 Finish Lynx Finish Line systems and much more. There are now supplies of equipment stored in Eugene, Medford, Bend in addition to Portland.
> Separation from USCF
> Dissatisfaction with the United States Cycling Federation came on slowly and climaxed in December 1998 when they fired all 50 Regional Representatives in favor of a plan to only utilize 10 people nationwide to service the membership. At this same time alternatives to the insurance provided by the national governing body became more readily available and the question was asked, 'What is OBRA getting back for the dollars that are sent to Colorado Springs?' An annual USCF membership ranged at that time from $35 to $50 and then the charge for insurance was about twice what was available commercially. OBRA figured that Oregon alone was sending about $200,000 annually to USAC in USCF and NORBA membership fees and race permits and surcharges.
> In exchange OBRA received little in the way of services and now there would not even be a local representative. The straw that broke the back was when USAC doubled the permit fees for the weekend day series races. To send a message to Colorado Springs the series promoters choose to insure with an insurance plan purchased by OBRA and to forgo USCF sanctioning. Letters were sent to every USAC board, director and staff member explaining why OBRA were doing this and further explaining that it was likely that all Oregon events would do this unless USAC made changes to address concerns over the diminishing level of service. Only one response was received.
> In the fall of 1998 there was a vote of member clubs that was unanimous that the OBRA insurance plan would be offered at all events.
> Success
> OBRA membership has swelled to the highest levels ever when David Beede contacted OBRA about branching out into mountain bike racing. The dissatisfaction among NORBA members was even greater than that from the road/track side. They were able to organize a race series amongst the mountain bike races and added them to OBRAs email network. This has given them a voice that they have not experienced before.
> The OBRA 2012 calendar had over 338 days of racing, offering discounted membership to juniors and strongly suggest that the race organizers reduce entry fees for those under 18. The Best All round Competition has expanded to recognize the outstanding performances in each discipline , a Women’s Series was created and Oregon Cup.
>
> According to OBRA statistics, membership has grown dramatically since 2000.
> 2000- 1738 members
> 2001- 1741 members
> 2002- 1978 members
> 2003- 2335 members
> 2004- 2760 members
> 2005- 2828 members
> 2006- 3296 members, 1014 1-day additional memberships
> 2007 -3452, 2157 1 day
> 2008 – 3900, 2187 one day
> 2009 – 4442, 2230 one day
> 2010 – 4909, 3205 one day
> 2011 – 5004, 4018 one day
> 2012 – 5019m 3531 one day
>
> According to Velonews (2006)
> Oregon was ranked #2 in the number of cycling events, only 8 races behind California.
> Oregon was ranked #3 in the number of amateur racers, behind only California and Colorado.
> Oregon was ranked #1 in terms of the percentage of riders vs. state population with Colorado coming in over 50% lower in 2nd place.
>
> Organization
>
> The Oregon Bicycle Racing Association is an Oregon Non Profit Corporation that has its Constitution and Bylaws on file with the State of Oregon. The business and affairs of OBRA are managed by its Board of Directors. There are six members of the Board of Directors. Each director is elected to a three year term by a majority of club representatives at an annual meeting. Two directors are elected each year.
>
> There are five paid positions:
> Executive Director
> Webmaster
> Assistant Director
> Membership Coordinator
> Equipment Manager
>
> Fee Comparison
> OBRA
> USAC
> Race Application
> 35
> 25-50 per day + 7% when prize list is over $2000
> Additional Insured
> 5
> 10
> Enndorsements
> 0
> 75
> Insurance
> 1.25
> 3
> Equipment Surcharge
> 0.5
> includes use of all equipment
> n/a
> Admin Surcharge
> 0.6
> na/
> Adult Membership
> 20
> 60-90
> CCX Only Adult
> 15
> n/a, must purchcase full license as above
> Jr Membership
> 5
> 30-60
> CCX only Junior
> 0
> n/a, must purchcase full license as above
> One Day
> 5
> 10
> Team Membership
> 100/35
> $65 refunded if race put on or volunteers
> 150
> Race Director
> 0
> 150
> Mechanic
> 0
> 150
> Coach
> 0
> 150
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> OBRA mailing list
> obra@list.obra.org
> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org


Take into consideration that in USAC-land, Northern California and Southern
California are separate "states." Under that system, Oregon seems to issue
more licenses than any USAC "state."

But, USAC probably pays staff more, at least at the top. Steve Johnson is
paid in the neighborhood of $300,000 annually - probably more than Kenji.

== Eric

According to Velonews (2006)

Oregon was ranked #2 in the number of cycling events, only 8 races behind
California.

Oregon was ranked #3 in the number of amateur racers, behind only California
and Colorado.

Oregon was ranked #1 in terms of the percentage of riders vs. state
population with Colorado coming in over 50% lower in 2nd place.


Josh LeBus

2013-02-07

THANK YOU!
For simply detailing the heritage of what is OBRA and to the Murray's for being apart of and responsible for this heritage.

We are so fortunate!!

Sent from my iPhone

On Feb 6, 2013, at 9:15 PM, "Candi Murray" wrote:

>
>
> I was asked by a couple of riders to detail the history of our organization. I have put the following together. There are a few riders, older than I that might be able to add to it.
>
> The Oregon Bicycle Racing Association (OBRA) was started in the late 1970s. Called the Oregon Cycling Association (OCA), it was then the district association of USCF clubs. The name was changed to the Oregon Bicycle Racing Association several years later to avoid confusion with the political group, the Oregon Citizens Alliance which was getting much negative media attention.
> There was not much activity for the first few years after OCA was formed. When Steve Scarich became the USCF District Representative he pushed to increase the strength of the organization. Organization was improved and a system of collecting fees from races was established. A few years later Mike Murray was elected to the board. Murray wanted more racing in Oregon so he turned the focus of the group toward making it easier to produce quality events. He bought traffic signs, photo finish equipment, PA systems, CB radios and more. Since then OBRA has purchased 3 vehicles, multiple trailers, 2 Finish Lynx Finish Line systems and much more. There are now supplies of equipment stored in Eugene, Medford, Bend in addition to Portland.
> Separation from USCF
> Dissatisfaction with the United States Cycling Federation came on slowly and climaxed in December 1998 when they fired all 50 Regional Representatives in favor of a plan to only utilize 10 people nationwide to service the membership. At this same time alternatives to the insurance provided by the national governing body became more readily available and the question was asked, 'What is OBRA getting back for the dollars that are sent to Colorado Springs?' An annual USCF membership ranged at that time from $35 to $50 and then the charge for insurance was about twice what was available commercially. OBRA figured that Oregon alone was sending about $200,000 annually to USAC in USCF and NORBA membership fees and race permits and surcharges.
> In exchange OBRA received little in the way of services and now there would not even be a local representative. The straw that broke the back was when USAC doubled the permit fees for the weekend day series races. To send a message to Colorado Springs the series promoters choose to insure with an insurance plan purchased by OBRA and to forgo USCF sanctioning. Letters were sent to every USAC board, director and staff member explaining why OBRA were doing this and further explaining that it was likely that all Oregon events would do this unless USAC made changes to address concerns over the diminishing level of service. Only one response was received.
> In the fall of 1998 there was a vote of member clubs that was unanimous that the OBRA insurance plan would be offered at all events.
> Success
> OBRA membership has swelled to the highest levels ever when David Beede contacted OBRA about branching out into mountain bike racing. The dissatisfaction among NORBA members was even greater than that from the road/track side. They were able to organize a race series amongst the mountain bike races and added them to OBRAs email network. This has given them a voice that they have not experienced before.
> The OBRA 2012 calendar had over 338 days of racing, offering discounted membership to juniors and strongly suggest that the race organizers reduce entry fees for those under 18. The Best All round Competition has expanded to recognize the outstanding performances in each discipline , a Women’s Series was created and Oregon Cup.
>
> According to OBRA statistics, membership has grown dramatically since 2000.
> 2000- 1738 members
> 2001- 1741 members
> 2002- 1978 members
> 2003- 2335 members
> 2004- 2760 members
> 2005- 2828 members
> 2006- 3296 members, 1014 1-day additional memberships
> 2007 -3452, 2157 1 day
> 2008 – 3900, 2187 one day
> 2009 – 4442, 2230 one day
> 2010 – 4909, 3205 one day
> 2011 – 5004, 4018 one day
> 2012 – 5019m 3531 one day
>
> According to Velonews (2006)
> Oregon was ranked #2 in the number of cycling events, only 8 races behind California.
> Oregon was ranked #3 in the number of amateur racers, behind only California and Colorado.
> Oregon was ranked #1 in terms of the percentage of riders vs. state population with Colorado coming in over 50% lower in 2nd place.
>
> Organization
>
> The Oregon Bicycle Racing Association is an Oregon Non Profit Corporation that has its Constitution and Bylaws on file with the State of Oregon. The business and affairs of OBRA are managed by its Board of Directors. There are six members of the Board of Directors. Each director is elected to a three year term by a majority of club representatives at an annual meeting. Two directors are elected each year.
>
> There are five paid positions:
> Executive Director
> Webmaster
> Assistant Director
> Membership Coordinator
> Equipment Manager
>
> Fee Comparison
> OBRA
> USAC
> Race Application
> 35
> 25-50 per day + 7% when prize list is over $2000
> Additional Insured
> 5
> 10
> Enndorsements
> 0
> 75
> Insurance
> 1.25
> 3
> Equipment Surcharge
> 0.5
> includes use of all equipment
> n/a
> Admin Surcharge
> 0.6
> na/
> Adult Membership
> 20
> 60-90
> CCX Only Adult
> 15
> n/a, must purchcase full license as above
> Jr Membership
> 5
> 30-60
> CCX only Junior
> 0
> n/a, must purchcase full license as above
> One Day
> 5
> 10
> Team Membership
> 100/35
> $65 refunded if race put on or volunteers
> 150
> Race Director
> 0
> 150
> Mechanic
> 0
> 150
> Coach
> 0
> 150
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> OBRA mailing list
> obra@list.obra.org
> http://list.obra.org/mailman/listinfo/obra
> Unsubscribe: obra-unsubscribe@list.obra.org


Candi Murray

2013-02-07

I was asked by a couple of riders to detail the history of our organization.
I have put the following together. There are a few riders, older than I that
might be able to add to it.

The Oregon Bicycle Racing Association (OBRA) was started in the late 1970s.
Called the Oregon Cycling Association (OCA), it was then the district
association of USCF clubs. The name was changed to the Oregon Bicycle Racing
Association several years later to avoid confusion with the political group,
the Oregon Citizens Alliance which was getting much negative media
attention.

There was not much activity for the first few years after OCA was formed.
When Steve Scarich became the USCF District Representative he pushed to
increase the strength of the organization. Organization was improved and a
system of collecting fees from races was established. A few years later Mike
Murray was elected to the board. Murray wanted more racing in Oregon so he
turned the focus of the group toward making it easier to produce quality
events. He bought traffic signs, photo finish equipment, PA systems, CB
radios and more. Since then OBRA has purchased 3 vehicles, multiple
trailers, 2 Finish Lynx Finish Line systems and much more. There are now
supplies of equipment stored in Eugene, Medford, Bend in addition to
Portland.

Separation from USCF

Dissatisfaction with the United States Cycling Federation came on slowly and
climaxed in December 1998 when they fired all 50 Regional Representatives in
favor of a plan to only utilize 10 people nationwide to service the
membership. At this same time alternatives to the insurance provided by the
national governing body became more readily available and the question was
asked, 'What is OBRA getting back for the dollars that are sent to Colorado
Springs?' An annual USCF membership ranged at that time from $35 to $50 and
then the charge for insurance was about twice what was available
commercially. OBRA figured that Oregon alone was sending about $200,000
annually to USAC in USCF and NORBA membership fees and race permits and
surcharges.

In exchange OBRA received little in the way of services and now there would
not even be a local representative. The straw that broke the back was when
USAC doubled the permit fees for the weekend day series races. To send a
message to Colorado Springs the series promoters choose to insure with an
insurance plan purchased by OBRA and to forgo USCF sanctioning. Letters were
sent to every USAC board, director and staff member explaining why OBRA were
doing this and further explaining that it was likely that all Oregon events
would do this unless USAC made changes to address concerns over the
diminishing level of service. Only one response was received.

In the fall of 1998 there was a vote of member clubs that was unanimous that
the OBRA insurance plan would be offered at all events.

Success

OBRA membership has swelled to the highest levels ever when David Beede
contacted OBRA about branching out into mountain bike racing. The
dissatisfaction among NORBA members was even greater than that from the
road/track side. They were able to organize a race series amongst the
mountain bike races and added them to OBRAs email network. This has given
them a voice that they have not experienced before.

The OBRA 2012 calendar had over 338 days of racing, offering discounted
membership to juniors and strongly suggest that the race organizers reduce
entry fees for those under 18. The Best All round Competition has expanded
to recognize the outstanding performances in each discipline , a Women's
Series was created and Oregon Cup.

According to OBRA statistics, membership has grown dramatically since 2000.

2000- 1738 members

2001- 1741 members

2002- 1978 members

2003- 2335 members

2004- 2760 members

2005- 2828 members

2006- 3296 members, 1014 1-day additional memberships

2007 -3452, 2157 1 day

2008 - 3900, 2187 one day

2009 - 4442, 2230 one day

2010 - 4909, 3205 one day

2011 - 5004, 4018 one day

2012 - 5019m 3531 one day

According to Velonews (2006)

Oregon was ranked #2 in the number of cycling events, only 8 races behind
California.

Oregon was ranked #3 in the number of amateur racers, behind only California
and Colorado.

Oregon was ranked #1 in terms of the percentage of riders vs. state
population with Colorado coming in over 50% lower in 2nd place.

Organization

The Oregon Bicycle Racing Association is an Oregon Non Profit Corporation
that has its Constitution and Bylaws on file with the State of Oregon. The
business and affairs of OBRA are managed by its Board of Directors. There
are six members of the Board of Directors. Each director is elected to a
three year term by a majority of club representatives at an annual meeting.
Two directors are elected each year.

There are five paid positions:

Executive Director

Webmaster

Assistant Director

Membership Coordinator

Equipment Manager

Fee Comparison


OBRA

USAC

Race Application

35

25-50 per day + 7% when prize list is over $2000

Additional Insured

5

10

Enndorsements

0

75

Insurance

1.25

3

Equipment Surcharge

0.5

includes use of all equipment

n/a

Admin Surcharge

0.6

na/

Adult Membership

20

60-90

CCX Only Adult

15

n/a, must purchcase full license as above

Jr Membership

5

30-60

CCX only Junior

0

n/a, must purchcase full license as above

One Day

5

10

Team Membership

100/35

$65 refunded if race put on or volunteers

150

Race Director

0

150

Mechanic

0

150

Coach

0

150