[NCNCA] Men's Cat 5 Mentor Program

[Alan Atha]

I have just been chosen as the coordinator for the NCNCA Men's Category 5
Mentor Program.  This program will extend throughout the season like the
guidance offered at the Early Bird Criterium series.

The purpose of the Men's CAT 5 Mentor Program is to encourage men to race in
a safe and effective manner.  Mentors will focus on exclusive Category 5
races (mixed category fields such as Cat 4/5 are not part of this program),
teaching safe racing techniques, peloton skills, gear choice, bike fit, etc.


Mentors will wear orange safety vests and clothing provided by our program
sponsor, Voler Team Apparel.  If they have earned the right mentors may wear
championship clothing in addition to orange safety vests.  Unlike the Early
Bird Criterium series, there will be a maximum of two mentors per race.

All of the Men's CAT 5 Mentors are either current or former Category 1/2/3
racers.  A note with a brief bio about each one will be sent out in a couple
weeks.  

Mentors will not impact the outcome of a race and will be available
afterward to answer questions, discuss race techniques and offer suggestions
for improvement.

I will be in contact with each chief referee and race promoter who has a
separate Category 5 only race.  I will assign mentors from our mentor group
who will assist the CAT 5 racers during their race.  If an NCNCA member club
who is the main promoter/club of the race wishes, the mentor program will
allow a qualified Cat 1/2/3 racer from the club to fill one of our mentor
slots.  I must approve the "guest mentor" in advance, however. 

If you have any questions about this program please don't hesitate to
contact me.

Alan Atha
USCF Former Category 2 Racer
USA Cycling Level 1 Coach
ACE Personal Trainer