Wondering ...
 

How would one go about hosting an alleycat? Is there somewhere (on the net) that you have to/should register? Are there any basic guidelines? I have the flyer but the date may change (to July 9th). Do I need/should I have a permit for this? will the cops come for some reason? is this type of thing illegal?

I know some of these questions may be stupid but stick with me.

Any help on this subject would be greatly appreciated.

Thanx

backwards sprint yikes wear a helmet

I'm thinking of probably making helmets necessary. ANd the backwards sprint may just be either who finishess or who goes the furthest before crashing? Just a thought

Also I found out the r1 race is in town on June 25th so it'll prolly be on July 9th

Ride bikes, have fun, adult beverages for those so inclined.

Probably, but not worth the effort, and the city probably give it to you

Possibly. At the boston midnight crit last fri, the cops did come. You are on bikes so you can easily scramble to another location.

Probably.

Oh, yea, the helmets necessary thing is lame. People are adults and can decide for themselves wether to wear one or not. Most people understand the risks involved with riding in an 'underground' bike race through a city. Let people make their own decisions.

The helmets thing was for the backwards sprint mainly.

Once again, let people make their own decisions. I'm sure they have a reasonable idea of the risks involved in a backwards sprint contest on a fixed gear.

ok

traditionally the entire point of the alleycat is that it's easy and impromptu and un-permitted and thus un-regulated by the powers-that-shouldn't-be.

but it turns out that not consenting to being ruled does not make those that think they rule you less inclined to exercise the rights they think they have

hmmm....does that make sense??? I'm really tired...

yeah, it makes sense, I just had to read it again to get it.

And what's 'foot down'?

Derby.

Everyone rides in a circle, pushing, pulling, pinching...whatever it takes to get other riders to put their foot down. As you have fewer riders, you pull the circle in tighter.

ahhhh, maybe I'll add this one

the cops showed up at our alleycat crit last sunday. they actually just sat at the finish line and watched.

Once people are a little drunk (if thats your gig), then I recommend holding a 'slow race', where you have people ride as slow as they can, and see who finishes last. The only rule is that you can't trackstand, you have to be moving the whole time, and going in a straight line. Those are fun. ;)

peace,
sam

how would you even try to get a permit? there's no "route", so it's not like it's a parade or something...

oh, and you may want to contact some bag companies or LBS and ask them to "sponsor" by donating prizes in exchange for their logo on the flyer.

usually, the reg money goes to beer & the BMEF, and the prizes are donated. at least that's the way it seems to go in most races...