The bike rides and races i go to have LBS support. They service bikes during the rides and help sponsor the events. I think it is also good to help those who make local events enjoyable.

Hammer Nutrition seems to send out a ton of goo and drink mixes as well. I have bought some of their stuff just as a thank you for helping out local rides.

It is a team effort.

Jeesh Scyclops, you sound like my dad @ the belt thing. NOthing worse than mom whispering to dad and then here the sound of that leather belt dragging through his belt loops. SHEESH, makes me shudder to this day.