Anyone going to be on the LOTOJA course Saturday?
Telephil?
www.lotojaclassic.com/LOTOJAmain_content.html
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Anyone going to be on the LOTOJA course Saturday?
Telephil?
www.lotojaclassic.com/LOTOJAmain_content.html
Went to lunch yesterday accross from the staging area and saw a bunch of riders getting ready, signing in, ....... Outdoors with Bill somethingorother was there to, channel 2 news in his big RV. Hope to see some high lights.
More Sept. Events
http://www.outdoorutah.com/Calendar/Sept%20Events.html
LOTOJA - A Day in the Saddle
By Monique Beeley
LOTOJA. Logan to Jackson. 203 miles. The LOTOJA Classic is the longest officially sanctioned one-day bike race in America, touring through three Rocky Mountain States, Utah, Idaho and Wyoming. LOTOJA began inauspiciously in1983 with just 6 riders and has been growing every year. Over 700 cyclists participated in the 2002 running of this European style bike race, an annual event staged each September. Contestants return year after year to participate and the competition draws new riders annually for many reasons. Undoubtedly the biggest draw is the course itself. Beginning in Logan, Utah and finishing in Jackson, Wyoming, this picturesque route is full of dramatic scenery, rolling hills, steep vertical climbs, small towns and hundreds of cheering fans along the way, all leading riders to the majestic Grand Tetons. The participants are riding for a variety of reasons; some to win and some to achieve a personal best. But for most, the ride is for the competition within - a strong emotion and desire just to finish this extraordinary race. No matter what brings them here, every entrant will leave with many memories, newfound friends and, most importantly, an overwhelming sense of triumph.
The 2002 Classic took place on September 14. The agenda for race festivities begins with all cyclists signing in, getting their (hopefully) lucky number and preparing for the event. The pre-race evening was filled with an overwhelming amount of nervous tension, a filling pasta dinner, lively music and a welcome from the race promoters. Along with the welcome came the announcement of a change in the race route due to road construction, which dictated a shortened course. The route was now 182 miles and the finish line was moved to the Wyoming’s scenic Swan Valley. The competitors favorably received the organizer’s decision for a course change. Most concurred that it would be very dangerous to ride through the construction work and the decision was definitely a proper call. Once the announcements were concluded, it was time to hit the hay and rest up for tomorrow’s formidable challenge.
Race day! What a perfect day. Clear skies and warm temps. The morning began with some trepidation but with lots of enthusiasm. The support crews, family and friends joined with the Mayor of Logan, Doug Thompson, to lend encouragement to the riders for the long haul ahead. The enthusiasm and support for the competitors escalated exponentially throughout the day. Support crews are crucial to riders’ success. Mental frame of mind, as well as physical endurance, is paramount to a rider’s ability to finish this very challenging event. Adrenalin is fueled from both riders and from the encouragement of supporters along the route.
The course was filled with ever changing scenery, but one factor consistent throughout the entire day was the cheers from both supporters on the side lines and riders grinding toward the finish line. There was an obvious feeling of camaraderie among the participants. New friends were made. Some of this changed slightly in the name of competition toward the last few legs of the race. After all, this is a race, and these friends are competitors!
The finish line was saturated with spectators exuding the same energy level that was prevalent throughout the event. Hundreds of supporters waited for their favorite cyclist to arrive. As riders crossed over the long awaited stripe, many found a last bit of energy to just cheer out, “I DID IT!” Hugs and cheers were in abundance. Exhausted riders were happy, grinning and brimming with pride to have completed the grueling LOTOJA . As the participants moved away from the finish area, their thoughts reflecting on their tremendous accomplishment, one thought is spoken. “LOTOJA! I’ll be back!”