I agree with shortening the length and making it a bit more intense. Illinois is a crit state and the cup, at least, is honest about that. It's not intended to honor strong riders. Good thing to separate out the state champs as well.

I think it's crazy to remove the biggest category, both financially and from a points perspective. A lot of people upgraded to the 3s last year - there were lots of opportunities to earn points. Now there will be much fewer, with fewer upgrades.

Most 4s and 5s want to race twice, only a percentage will want to race open masters. I get to race 3 times if I wish.

Even USA Cycling have abandoned 30+, but not IL.

That said, I think it's an improvement overall. I think a minimum purse requirement would be great as well. Seems that the larger the numbers attending the more miserable and shallower the awards.

Best thing is that former pros who wish to race at cat 5 level need to do 10 races before they can start to bag the cash.