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Subject: tips for a spectator?

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Posted:3/7/2008 5:30:50 PM

I'm mulling over driving to Fiesta Island on Sunday to check out the action. Thing is, I know almost nothing about TT other than what i've read on this web site.

I've been road cycling on and off since 2005 ... done the Amtrak Century a couple of times and a handful of other organized rides plus club rides here and there - that's the extent of it. I'm curious to check out time trialing cos I wonder whether that's something I'd like to get into (not much interest in any other type of bicycle racing). I'd definitely like to know what sort of training is involved.

Anyway, so does anyone have any tips for spectating at these races? Are there tips to be had? Or is time trialing something that you just go and do, as opposed to just watch?

paul8885
Posts:23

Posted:3/8/2008 10:12:31 AM

Read Gary's explanation of a TT under "starting line" then imagine if that sounds like a good time for a spectator. Well, maybe not unless you are there to support a friend. You could, however, gain some valuable information by looking at a few riders at the start line and compare their disposition there with when they cross the finish line located, at Fiesta Island, just up the road to the left. For those who are serious time trialists, expect to see the face of "absolutely trashed

" and they won't be putting on an act.

It is my favorite kind of bike racing. Fiesta Island fills up their 150 entry spots every time within a few days of announcing registration is open, so, I am not the only one who enjoys it. The largest battle is within yourself mentally and physically and with time you learn there is little distinction if any. Everyone has to face the rest of the elements in the same way, so, it is a true measure of your fitness at that moment.

veloman
Posts:8

Posted:3/15/2008 11:32:32 AM

Sorry for the late response on this one. But definitely check out a TT if you can. Or if you are a jump-in-the-deep-end kind of person, just sign up for a TT and have at it! Fiesta is a great course, although there is a lot of passing going on there which can be a little daunting for some newbies. Piru is another great course and the promoter, Tren, is a great guy. He helped my brother out a few years ago when he did his first ever TT out there. Super nice. Piru even has a special category (called the Merckx Category) for folks with just regular bikes - no aero bars, aero wheels . . . nothing aero.

As you do them more and more, you'll learn how to warm up and how to pace yourself during the event. It is a great challenge and great fun. Who knew so much pain could be so fun.

One tip for any first timer: don't fight the holder. At the start of most TT's, there is someone there to hold you on your bike at the start. Don't worry, the holder will not drop you.

I hope at the very least this helps encourage you to get out there and tackle the Race of Truth. Good luck.

-craig

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