A little over 2 months ago I was standing on the parking garage, beer in hand, overlooking the racing action at the Sunset Criterium with Traci and Amit. The three of us were kicking around an opportunity that had been presented to us. Little did any of us know how all consuming it would be! Fast forward 35 insanely busy and stressful days, and you have yourself Portland Velo's first venture into the world of race promotion.
243 racers, including a large contingent of PV racers and local leg-shredder Ryan Trebon, made their way to southern Washington County to experience Pain on the Peak. The overwhelming feedback? The event was accurately named! A brutal course awaited those who participated in the area's first Cyclocross race of the season.
From an organizational standpoint, the race went off almost flawlessly. A few minor snags in the morning with directions pushed back the first race by 50 minutes, but a quick trip to the troubled intersection for some directional signs mostly solved the problem. Our registration process was painless and got people through quickly, our volunteers showed up on time and ready to do whatever was needed, and were amazingly helpful to all the people who visited the venue. Time and time again I heard from OBRA reps and race participants how smoothly the event was going and how organized we were. We were also fortunate enough to be able to let those who wished to race the opportunity. It was wonderful to cheer on the "home team" throughout the day and Mitch Lee, Dan Dittmer, and Kristin Wille all scored top podium places in their fields.
At the end of the day, we were all tired and dusty, but a number of us stayed on venue long after the last participant had left, reflecting back over the day's event.
This could not have happened if it wasn't for the amazingly generous and talented pool of individuals that this club has making up its membership body. 2009 has a number of opportunities already presenting itself, so stay tuned for more news.