Mountain Biking - FL Riders! Any1 going 2 Alafia Fat Tire Festival?

I was curious if any FL or SE riders will be attending this year's festival.

I'm still non-committal. My wife says, "No, but you can go!" As much as I'd jump at the chance, I know I can't go for the whole weekend. That "green" light from my wife always turns to yellow as the date approaches.

I'll probably sign up for the "Sunday" only, but may consider putting more pressure on wifey if I know some people that are going.

Let me know!
Here's the info on the festival:
http://www.swampclub.org/AlafiaFTF.htm

As much as I like riding Alafia I will not attend a S.W.A.M.P. event due to the fact that they have a nasty habit of riding in large groups on the same section of trail. You should never ride more than four riders in short intervals to minimize interference with others trying to ride the same trails. While I love the fact that they do a fair amount of trail maintainance, (their members also do a LOT of damage by not teaching proper technique) I can't abide by the holier-than-thou-'cause-my-bikes-more-expensive-than-your's 'tude that I've gotten everytime we've (my friends, my girlfriend and I) come across a group. My friend's and I make a POINT to avoid these guys at all costs. No offense A2 but any other time no 'prob (work schedule permitting) but no way on that weekend.

SWAMP = Great Idea LOUSY execution.

Donning my nomex as I type this

I've heard this complaint numerous times. I'm not a member, and don't plan to be, but not because of this. I live too far to attend any meetings or any scheduled events. However, there are so few festivals in our area, that I'm very interested in attending and meeting some new people.

I agree that small groups are better than huge masses, but at any festival, that usually occurs. There is no excuse for this behavior at weekly rides, and I'm assuming that was what you experienced.

Not to defend them, but my guess is they're just ignorant to the obvious fact. (I'm giving them the benefit of the doubt since I've not had personal experience with similar situations.) Has the Pres of SWAMP been informed of these problems? I'll bet, that a call from a concerned rider to the Pres expressing this concern would hopefully travel to the group leaders (guides). Education is always a better resolution than avoidance and continued problems. (In my book)

There are so few mtn bikers in our area, that the actions of a few idiots doesn't warrant total retribution of the whole organization. This is such a common occurance and issues that we try to avoid with the general public, that the infighting amongst ourselves should be avoided.

BTW, you ever visit www.ridgeriders.net ? I guess there are a few people there that have a similar distain for SWAMP Club riders.

I'm still planning on going to the festival, and if I get a chance to talk to the Pres. (Wes is his name, I think!) I will do my best to express this concern. I'll let you know what happens. Sorry you won't make to the festival so we could meet in person.

Other rides, I loved to hook up and ride. I'll let you know when I'm heading up!

L8R

Talked my Bro-in-law into going.

Still working on my friend/manager of LBS, he'd have to take Sat. off and that's always an issue.

Anyone else?????

L8R