Bike Racing.

You may have guessed I like, scratch that, love to bike.  I've worked at a bike shop in high school, college, and co-own one now.  I live it, I guess.

Over the years I have done my fair share of races from mountain bike, single speed world championships, 24 hour races, triathlons, duathlons, road races, crits, winter races, rallies, to gravel races, and more.  In that time I have discovered I like to "just ride" than race.

I still do some races but it's now more of the "fringe" racing.  Gravel, winter, and other low key events.  Part of this comes from all the "rules" that are abound in "sanctioned" races.
We're riding bikes it's suppose to be fun.  I get that some rules need to be in place but with those rules come fees...and fees cause riders to demand perfection and a vicious cycle has formed.

Along these lines I have hosted/directed many races as well: single speed races, mountain bike races, cross races, and gravel races.  By far the most fun is the gravel.  Why?  No rules, no fees, no expectations, no USA Cycling telling me what to do or taking all my money.

Many clubs, etc host events in hopes of raising money for their club or cause.  But when you start $1600 in the hole from race fees, etc it's hard to gain much beyond that.

Something has to give.

I miss the Blast Enduro Series from several years back.  Bob did an awesome job.  Sure he rubbed some the wrong way but he was instrumental in getting us Milaca, Elk River, and Monticello.  I've been toying with the idea of trying to get something like this started again, but man...lots of work.  Labor of love, right?

Not too sure the meaning or direction of this post.

Rambling.

Time to get the kids.

Out.