[NCNCA] Early Bird note to riders and mentors

[Larry Nolan]

The Early Birds Criterium Training Series started in Fremont in 1988.  Through the help of many volunteers it has blossomed into an event that has helped many riders get a good start in racing.
 
Two points today:
 
1) riders: weather.com calls for a 80% chance of rain (94560 zip) on Sunday.  Not good, especially since Bob Liebold announced “heavy rain cancels”.  Then again, you just know that Bob and his team will be there.  Me too.  Why not?  Bob has the permit and the course will be closed to traffic.  Besides, riding in the rain helps to get in the miles and you just never know if it might rain at the event that you want to do well at.  Bring extra dry clothes and I’ll see you out there.
 
2) mentors: Shawn Mehaffey and I want to continue to improve the Early Birds Training Series.  Through the efforts of the Early Bird mentors the series has a fine reputation.  At the same time one of our observations is that not all mentors are coming from the same page.  Here are a few ideas that will help all of our mentors to be more successful during this 5-week series. - follow the curriculum- one hour a week is NOT enough time to pass along adequate bicycle racing skills.  Because our time is limited, we want to stick with the BIG PICTURE curriculum, and not wander too far into the detailed minutiae.  
 
- follow our teaching pattern:a) explain what the athletes are about to learnb) demonstate what they are about to doc) allow the athletes to try the new skilld) give the athletes appropriate feedbacke) continue the skill as long as time allows (note: Shawn is usually at turn 1 advising when groups should switch to the next skill)f) monitor the group... if the majority "gets" the skill, then modify the skill as appropriate.  For instance, switch to 3-up cornering if everyone has 2-up cornering down.g) give the group general feedback
- safety first: we know that the best way to grow our sport is to provide a good experience for the first time racer.  We are continually amazed at how many new riders show up to this series.  Some are encouraged by friends that tell them how "strong" they are, some are new to the sport and very "comfortable" going through a corner shoulder to shoulder with another rider.  The mixture of experiences is what makes the first few races interesting.  Please also note that it is acceptable to ask an athlete NOT to race if you deem them not yet ready.  
 
- perspective: Practicing the fundamentals in January is critical for success (and safety) later in the year.  Yes, a pace line is a basic cycling skill... but it is also an advanced skill when it comes to a 30mph breakaway at the end of a race, or a team time trial.  Challenge your groups to perfect their pacelines.  
 
- homework: remind the groups that they can work on these skills (and others) during the week (especially good for a recovery day)
 
- sharing your experiences: sure, make it personal.  New riders appreciate that, but please stick to the curriculum and the big picture.  Meaning, sideline those nutrition questions so that the whole group benefits from your replies. Shawn has been collecting names of mentors that want to help in 2008.  If you are interested in helping please attend the meetings at 9:15 and/ or 11am so that we can all get on the same page.  Thank you again for volunteering.  Here’s to a healthy and happy 2008!  Larry Nolan, USA Cycling level 2 coach, co-lead of the Early Birds