Thank you for volunteering to assist on the crazy 200km challenge. This page includes details about the record attempts, volunteer positions, time slots, roles and responsbilities, and much more. Please complete the form at the bottom then I’ll get back to each of you regarding individual details.
I will ride the four record attempts at the same time (in other words they all start together at 4:15am then I will roll through 100km, then 100 miles, then 200 km and sometime along there complete six hours). The specific events in the 70-74 age group (and the current records) are:
- Farthest distance in 6 hour, current record is 93.24 miles, 15.54 mph
- Fastest time over 100 kilometers, current record is 3:40, 16.94mph
- Fastest time over 100 miles, no record
- Fastest time over 200 kilometers, current record is 8:24 (yes, 8 and a half hours!)
100 kilometers is 300 laps on the track; 100 miles is 480 laps; and 200km is 600 laps.
The attempt will take place at the San Diego Velodrome in Morley Field. Directions and parking will be provided a few days prior.
The start time is planned for 4:15am. The early start is to complete the six hours before the inevitable wind starts to come up. Although the goal is to complete all four records within six hours, the ride will continue until six hours or 200km, whichever comes last. I expect we will wrap up around 10:15am.
It is not my expectation that everyone arrive at 4am and stay until 10:30am. We will plan shifts however, please only committ to a shift if you can complete it (barring unforseen circumstances). I will try to have backups for each position and time slot.
Various volunteer roles and responsibilites:
WUCA Officials – two (or more) required. This requires a bit of prep. There is a rule book and open book quiz. In order to sanction the ride we need two officials onsite at all times (so we may need four officials if we do shifts). One of the officials can be one of the timers, but one is supposed to be just watching. If this appeals to you join here as an official:
https://ultracycling.com/join-as-an-official/
Pay the $20 and we will reimburse you. As soon as you join let me know and I’ll help you find the test and do the required paperwork.
Timers – two people sitting at a desk with stopwatches at the start/finish line recording lap times (as in the photo above). It should take me about 35 seconds per lap; each lap is 333 meters. Each timer will have a stack of forms. Each time I cross the start/finish line you look at the stopwatch and write down the cumulative time. This can be done in shifts with multiple people. It’s not difficult but does require paying attention during the shift.
Lap Counter – one needed at at time. This is a very important job because it cross-checks the timers to be sure the lap count is correct (the distances for the three distance records are measured by number of laps). We have a mechanical lap counter and the job is to add one lap to the counter each time I ride by. This job requires some concentration and coordination with the timers to prevent a lap from being added or dropped. Below is an image of the lap card from one of my hour record attempts.
Early Setup Team – This is for the hardy ones. We need two or three people to arrive at 3:30am to set up the tables, chairs, and lap counters. We have to run a leaf blower around the track and we have to place small foam blocks around the track so I can’t cut the corners. This job can be doubled with another job as it will be completed before the ride starts.
Snacks – This has two parts…procurring and serving. Part one is shop and figure out coffee. Part two is be sure the timers and lap card person has what they need, as they cannot leave their posts.
Backup – This would be one or two people who can relieve the timers and others for bathroom breaks, etc.
Cheering Team – Want to just show up and yell? We can always use you!
PLEASE USE THE FORM BELOW TO SIGN UP.
FEEL FREE TO CONTACT ME AT 619-373-5476 FOR ANY QUESTIONS.
