To ride no. To race a real race, yes.

However that does not mean that anyone can ride the track, you first have to get certified and once you are certified to ride then you're all good to go. Two ways of getting certified. 1. Take a 4 part beginners track course. This is usually held over 4 consecuative Saturdays and is approximately $225. 2. Take the accelcerated track course for $65. This is only 1 hour or so long and is designed for Cat 2 or higher track riders and/or riders that have extensive track and/or road experience.

I had a ton of experience riding fixed on the road and mtn bike riding/racing on coasters and fixed. I still took the 4 part course. The way I looked at it is I'm paying a guy that was a world rank track racer that competed in the olympics to teach me to ride the track. That type of training and knowledge is invaluable. In fact during my training Bob Williams, the track director at Blaine, was in town and riding and even he said he likes talking and listening to Roger. This is also another reason why I prefer riding on nights that Roger is doing training sessions verses open training sessions.

The best thing to do if you're flying in is to send Roger an email and tell him your track history and what he suggests. The biggest thing here is creating a safe riding environment for everyone that's on the track. If everyone who rides the track goes to the same classes then everyone is held to the same safety standards and riding ettiquette.