Originally Posted by
Rowan
So, does the RBA represent RUSA or not?
Or is the RBA some independent dictator who has no regard for the national rulings?
My point is valid if the RBA is a RUSA representative.
Obviously this practice, which is not a qualifying requirement set by the ACP, exists... which leads to the question: Why?
The more I look around the 'Net at local USA club/organizer requirements for their brevets, the more I am convinced that it is a question of liability (most likely financial/insurance) and/or a stated concern for safety (though that might actually be (legal) cover for other concerns - lost riders/DNF's who become "unaccounted for" still out on the route, and other such "better cover your ass" legal concerns that organizers might have).
I guess they figure if a rider has completed the next shorter ride, the rider's chances of completing this one are greater (forgetting that probability does not equate to actual results in individual sequences).
90% or more of the brevets require riders to sign waivers absolving the RUSA and local club/organizer from financial and legal responsibility in their entirety. However, the US civil tort/litigation system being what it is, lawyers may be hired to seek financial compensation for whatever negative occurs on the ride - including failing to finish, costs incurred to return to the start point due to "poorly compiled cue sheets", etc. RUSA specifically tries to insulate itself from financial/legal responsibility
by requiring the club organizer to carry insurance and explicitly stating that all riders are responsible for themselves/whatever expenses are incurred.
So, by requiring riders to have done the shorter rides prior to attempting a ride of X_length, organizers appear to be
trying to limit their exposure to legal crap/bad eperiences with "unqualified" riders/riders who simply bite off way more than they can chew.
Any good lawyer in the US can/will at least make the same routine argument that is used against any "service/product provider" or event organizer when something goes wrong - "
The fact that this product/service was offered means you the manufacture, provider, organizer) are responsible, at least in part, for any and everything that happens - regardless of any waiver signed." Ask Phillip-Morris, some of the car companies and even rock concert promoters who've paid millions to settle claims.
That's my guess.