Will there be any junior races this season? There were a couple of youngesters out in the 4/5 group this past week (3/19/09) and even though they were experienced riders, the pace was too fast for them. From a safety stand point, if other juniors to were to ride in the the 4/5's on a regular basis, inexperienced riders of their size could become a hazzard on the course. Safety always has to dictate.

You're absolutely right that safety has to dictate, however, that's a parent/guardian decision, not a promoter decision. If you feel like it's not safe enough for your junior or others, I understand. From a promoter's standpoint, there's just not enough daylight to afford a full racing schedule. That's the nature of a weeknight race. Instead, I, like other weeknight promoters offer something for everyone. Right now, there is a race for everyone at the Driveway as it is all skill based. I totally agree it's not ideal for small juniors, but that's all we can afford to offer. Best of luck to you. -aw

Andrew, If the juniors are put in with the 4/5 group they should, for safety's sake, be placed at the back of the field. Last week we had young kids sitting on the front of the peloton in the staging area. I know it looks cool for them but it is definitely not cool when adult riders are having to sift through young, wobbly kids on bikes to get into the race peloton once things get underway. Put the kids at the back. Thanks.

Agree completely. I'll run it by the officials.

I first took my grandson, age 11, out for the advertised beginner's clinic, only to find there wasn't one. Since we were already there, we started at the back of the pack and rode the 4/5 together. We were on the short course, and every time the pack came around, we got off to the side, out of the way. The next week I raced the race and he rode in the race on his own. He watches for the pack and gets out of the way when they come by. He and I appreciate the other riders cutting him a little slack at the start. If he's in the way at all, it doesn't last long.
I don't know of any safer, friendlier, more laid-back way to get him exposed to racing than the Driveway, and have been pleasantly surprised at the care and concern other riders have shown him, including putting his chain back on (even though he can do that himself) or checking on him after he does the forget-to-unclip-and-fall-over thing without humiliating him or making too much of a fuss either. Good people, good place to learn about racing and more. Thanks.