Lebanon Hills races

[SickBoy]

OK, doing some research on potential ideas here. I'm more targeting this towards the crowd that rides the trail than the race crowd so that's why it's here rather than in the Racing forum.

Basically, we're looking in to the feasibility and costs associated with running 2 TT's at Lebanon next riding season. One about the same time as this year (May-ish) and one later on. So please vote whether you're likely to race or not. (I will put in an option for those who do not want to race).

[gopherhockey]

I'd definitely like to see the Lebanon TTs grow. Not being a racer myself, it is hard to know how to vote... but I like the spring one about where it is, and the fall one would be nice maybe as things start to cool down. (maybe thats too late to have it?)

Either way, count me in for supporting your efforts with the TTs. I think people are starting to see how fun it could be to do this type of thing - I'm betting on an even greater turnout next season...

[funky-funky-chicken]

Sounds like a great idea. I am sorry that I missed the one in the Spring. I like the idea of some freindly competition, but am a wuss when it comes to the idea of the big pack start. The time trial would be fun to try.

[EmL34]

I prefer the classic x-c start with everyone going at once. I forget to ride hard in time trials, until the guy who started behind me catches me, in which case I'm already screwed.

[Tetreves]

Definately interested. I've missed both TT so far due to the ugly work schedule.

I'll let you know the friday before the TT whether or not I'm working so we can schedule it accordingly...


...not really...


-ed

[bigfoot]

I did the spring TT and had a blast. It was run great. It's a nice change from mass starts on a great trail. Time trials measure the real deal. You can't blame someone from blocking you! The fall would be a nice time to get together with fellow riders before the season is over. Good luck Andy. Let me know if I can help out.

[SickBoy]

Thanks for the feedback everyone. I was a little wary of scheduling a race event in the post-Chequamegon timeframe as the cyclocross season usually kicks up right away. However, now that I think about it, about 95% of the riders who have done the TT's the first two years are not people who race 'cross.

This research is all for 2004, of course. Unfortunately, I have neither the time nor the motivation to promote another race this year. If anyone would like to step up and schedule an event, I can help you out with a list of contacts and things you'll need to do.

Adn as for the one comment about mass start... Honestly, Lebanon isn't the place for a mass start race. In addition to there not being enough room for a full on mass start, the trail gets rather narrow very fast with virtually no passing lanes. Mass start races can be somewhat destructive to trails and I would rather not see that happen at Lebanon Hills.

[stoneage]

Do the fall event backwards.

[SickBoy]

That sounds kinda cool. Though I might be worried about anyone who tries to go out and practice the course backwards, given the high usage level out there.

[stoneage]

Don't let them know until the race start. Everything being equal......

[nigel]

How about one night time trial!!!! Although safety issues pop up big time with that kind of race, but thats one I'd for sure be in for!

As for any more this season.....If you want some help for a Fall event you can count me in and I know some others that would help out as well just for the passion of the trail!

Get ahold of me if you want help for one more this year and help for future events, im in for sure!

Douglas

[unstuckpilgrim]

I think a second time trial in the Fall would be a great way to measure each other's or your own progress throughout the season. I could look at the numbers to see how lazy I was all summer, or vice-versa. And I must agree, a field start at Leb would be a nightmare. I would think that slamming into a cement filled pole in the middle of a sprint could cause mild discomfort.

[SickBoy]

Thanks for the continued feedback, everyone. Keep it coming!

Some additional ideas we are looking at for next year, one way or the other:

- Online pre-registration (doing away with the mail-in thing)
- Adding kids' races/mini-TT
- Easter egg hunt (Special goodies placed along the trail for those who don't care to hammer their brain into oxygen debt)
- The team relay will likely change to make it shorter. Possibly cutting out the Expert loop in the interest of making this an hour-long event rather than an hour and a half or two hours.

And of course, a second event in the fall of 2004. Post-Chequamegon timeframe is looking like it's winning right now.

[Trevize1138]

I like the night TT idea!

As for safety concerns, maybe require adequate off-road lighting to enter, similar to how helmets are required. Just make sure people have lights of a specified minimum wattage or something.

I once did a TT race at the river bottoms with a sub-standard lighting system. Some $15 Trek light I got for free from the Buck Hill races. Ended up taking a couple good crashes durinng the race! Not fun.

[nigel]

I'd have to say minimum of 15w would be good, there would also have to people at the "tough" spots in case people take a big digger and need help.

As for rear lights, why i ask, why!?! Not needed off-road at all, only on road traffic stretches. I could rant about 24 of Afton requiring a rear when Pro series 24 hours do not, must be some insurance requirement or something, but thats a whole different rant.

When was that River Valley TT??? I cannot recall hearing about that one, wish I would have been there tho!

Douglas

[stoneage]

The river bottoms TT was a panic. I think there were four of them. One was any route you wanted, no set trail. All the proceeds went to the Jimmy Huega foundation. My bud Steve Eberly put that one on. He is back from Ireland, so you never know. As for licensing, waivers, etc, CALL YOUR MAMA.