Debate about new RAAM rules continues

Bike, RAAM, Race Across America | UltraRob | Thursday, January 19th, 2006 at 8:37 pm

There has been a discussion on the ultracycling e-mail list that at times hasn’t been too nice about the new “sleeper” RAAM rules. I think most of the finishers and those that are signed up don’t support the rules and some are strongly against them.

The requirement of time off the bike doesn’t bother me too much but the lack of flexibility when I can sleep does. There’s also a “old rules” category but as the rules are currently written there’s no prize money. Any rider that does this category will not be officially recognized as placing in or winning the overall solo Race Across America but will be credited in the “old rules” category. An article last week on Cyclingnews.com though quoted Jim Pitre, the race organizer, as saying there will now be prize money in both categories.

There also has been a discussion on RoadBikeReview.com that has been more supportive of the new rules. However it shakes out I know I have a lot of training to do.

I met with my coach today and discussed some of the training needed besides on the bike. One of the common problems with RAAM riders is having trouble holding the head up because of neck fatigue. She pointed me to head harness online. My guess is that it will help strengthen the neck but it looks like some torture device.

Hi Tec Penrith Mid Jr. WP Hiking Boots