Women Only Racing - It's your turn!

Like many other things I do an idea will come to me regarding race promotions that excites me, but instead of shouting off the rooftops I'll allow it time to fully develop into something more than just an idea. There are a lot of small ideas that would enhance the series experience, but most of my focus has been on bigger picture stuff that really changes the landscape. The next big idea I've had that I think and hope will mature into something exciting is offering a women's only event at the NashvilleCyclist.com Criterium Race Series.

We have had a great core group of women showing up each week to compete in the "C" field. Their participation and dedication to the series has been one of the key factors driving my idea, but I know there are many more just like them clawing at the fence waiting for their own moment away from the men. I see this opportunity just as I saw the creation of the "C" field after the 2006 series. I knew there were many Category 5 or beginner racers who wanted to race, but didn't want to face a "B" field that included experienced Category 4 riders. If I were a beginner I wouldn't want that either, much like I'm sure the women don't necessarily enjoy the "C" field to the fullest. However, there are some I know who love beating guys across the line!

Let's face it; we all want to compete but only against like abilities. The more opportunities we can create where that's the goal the more people we'll see show up and pin on a number. So ladies, check out the flyer on NashvilleCyclist.com to learn about the key details. Plus, pass this information along to everyone you know to alert them about this golden opportunity.

If all goes well this week you can bet we will have another women only race the following week, August 22, which is the last race of the summer series. Not only that, but if the women are ready to commit to racing consistently I will offer a women's only series in 2008!

(Before you even ask, yes, I am already researching an appropriate championship belt/tiara/crown, etc!)

So here goes.....

This Wednesday, August 15 we will offer our first women's only racing event. The women's race will start at 5:45 PM and last for 15 minutes. The entry fee is only $5! We highly encourage women to arrive early to register to race and take advantage of this unique opportunity. The first woman across the line will win $10.

All women will be required to show their annual USA Cycling racing license, but if you do not possess an annual license a one-day license will be necessary at a cost of $10.

Also, an important rule to be aware of, and that is you must wear a jersey that has sleeves. No racers of any category or ability are allowed to wear sleeveless jerseys, so please make sure you arrive with the appropriate clothing. This is a USA Cycling rule that will be enforced by the officials and race promoter. No sleeves equals no racing, sorry.

For those women wanting to double up their racing chances we recommend doing the women only event and then going straight into the "C" category race immediately following at 6:00 PM. Most women have been racing in the "C" field the whole series up to this point, so if you're feeling frisky bring an extra $5 for the "C" race too!

WHO: all women
WHAT: women's only criterium race
WHERE: @ LP Field, home of the Tennessee Titans
WHEN: Wednesday, August 15 at 5:45 PM - - registration opens @ 5:00 PM
WHY: (Pick 2) Cause I'm...faster than "C's", bored, want the $10 prize, bored, freakin' fast!