Originally Posted by
Flimflam
Yeah, that area of Queen is bad - going east toward Shaw presents a similar problem, except there are rarely parked cars, just a RTOL.
So for that CHIN picnic deally... What exactly would I need? I've never raced (I intend to join the midweekclubs' learn to race course). So I don't have any type of license/membership to UCI/OCA/whoever it needs to be. Is a citizens permit acceptable? I'm completely clueless on how this stuff all works.
You can probably get away with just a one day permit. If you plan to do more races you should consider a Citizens permit, or the UCI license which will allow you to race anywhere and everywhere.
The Midweek program is offers a excellent for those wanting to start racing, it will help keep you from getting killed
The group is very friendly and there to help.
Chin is a great race but well known for crashes. Last year was a little treacherous and I think there were 2 crashes in the M3/S3/4 field, and one in the M2/M1 field. Fun race, just stay near the front !
To join Midweek it's about $50 which includes your insurance (would have to double check the cost), plus a additional $5 per Midweek Monday or Tuesday session. I think the year fee for the Mon or Tues is about $80. Well worth it if you plan to attend on a regular basis.
For a beginner, I'd say the best first race would be the Milford RR. It's far less hairy than a crit and you have plenty of time to get the legs in shape.
Midweek also has some excellent group rides on the weekends with the same coaches that run Monday. Generally they practice racing tactics (echelons, protecting riders etc), that can't fit into the Monday night session.