Cyclists in southwestern Connecticut are lucky to have race promoters who know what they’re doing. I’ve mentioned the races Aki promotes as being models of perfectly organized events. Rick, the guy who promotes the Tuesday Night Worlds, puts on a four-month long series that has become, for me at least, the best thing to do during the summer. Last night we had a big barbecue and awards ceremony that included the debut of the race video.
At many of the races, we rode in front of video cameras. There were cameras along the sidelines of the race, one helmetcam for in-the-pack action, a bike frame camera mounted low on the forks, and motocam (a cameraman hanging off the back of a scooter), just like the pros have. The photographer put together an awesome 45 minute DVD with spectacular race footage, still photos, and interviews with some of the racers. Since I tried playing for the cameras in more than one race, I got some decent air time. I have to say, I look pretty professional there, which is, I’m sure, all a photographer’s trick.
We also got our awards last night. Since Rick gave out awards for the top ten, I got a plaque proclaiming me the eighth place finisher in the B race (I missed seventh by ONE POINT!). Not only that, but our team took third in the team classification. I feel especially pleased with this for several reasons. First, it underscores just how much of a team sport cycling is. Second, our prize is a formal team portrait done by the photographer who did the pictures and DVD, so everyone on the team will get something. Finally, we scored 135 points, of which I contributed 58.
Races like this work because everyone involved is excited by cycling and hugely committed to making racing fun and popular. Most of the racers, as I have said in earlier posts, are typical New England professionals, with real jobs, who compete just for the fun of it. When we get the chance to feel like Tour de France racers, with videos, interviews, and prizes, we get to realize our Walter Mitty fantasies and, just as important, we feel like coming back next year for more racing.
The Hobgoblin of Little Minds 
I wish I coulda come down, but we were invited to a cx-team party (sorta) Friday night in mass. and then a ‘cross race sunday in NH, logistically it didn’t make sense to drive home and then back the next day.
I didn’t have anyone grab me the video, if you have a spare copy and want to send it up to school, it’d be much appreciated. Since leaving a reply requires email, I’m guessing you can see it. If not let me know how to get in touch with you.
Hobgoblin,
Many congratulations on your racing abilities and the publication of your writing in “Americana.”
yes — congratulations hobgoblin for your racing and for your publication!
Sounds like a VERY VERY cool series – and very professionally done!! I hope the new digs has something like that near by – though maybe next season, without a move, I’ll be able to participate in the E.Hfd series (I’ve heard they’re ramping up the pro quotient as well).
Congratulations on your 8th place series finish – and on your article. Sounds like it’s been a great week in Hobgoblin land!