Sea Otter Classic?

Has anyone ever hung out at the Sea Otter Classic in Monterey?

www.seaotterclassic.com

I always thought it would be cool...but always being held in mid-April, skiing always won out, but this year, well, is a different story, so I'm thinking of heading down. Racing in the mountain bike races would be cool, but don't want to push my knee like that just yet, so am thinking of riding the century road ride they're having on Sunday.

What's it like (the entire event)? Is it mobbed? Can deals be had in the vendor marketplace? Cool things to do at night? blah blah blah....

I'd definitely go if I had the chance. It's supposed to be a kick and the vendor area is pretty intense. Some in the industry consider it like another trade show.

I've heard the mtb races are a sandbag fest.

Other than that, it sounds kick ass.

I've never been, but a friend of mine hasn't missed it in like 5 years (must be kind of interesting then, eh?). What he has told me seems to jive with gravitylover and homerjay's statements.

I went back in the first year they ran the race (I lived there), and about 2 years ago. It has changed -- it's now a huge box van event, massive traffic, and $10 per person (not per vehicle, per person) to get in as a spectator. The vendor area is OK, but I wouldn't expect to get any great $ deals there.

Spring in Monterey is often rainy, wet, and damp cold. The trails are fun, and the SOC runs a few "fun rides" where you can sign up (and pay) to attend -- or just poach it. Since I grew up right next to where the race is run, I know the trails and just go ride.

Basically, IMHO, SOC is okay but you'll have just as much fun or more if you just go there to ride at some other time of the year. I won't be attending as a spectator again.

-Karl

I'm gonna race in the 40+ Cat 4/5 Circuit (road) race on Saturday. I'll probably be the only guy from my team, so if you see someone in a red and black Merrill Lynch jersey, say hello.

I did the xc race there a few times.... pretty fun course. usually a mix between some sandy stuff and mud fields towards the finish. It is definitely a scene worth checking out. Huge vedor/expo area, etc. cool demos. One issue... tends to choke down to singletrack in the first 100 yards, so either bust ass to the front and try to hold off everyone or give some slack and try to pick people off in the sparse areas where the trail allows for a pass.

bump - it's this weekend.

Shoe - you still thinking about going? I'm way on the fence - lots of things keeping me in town here, but who knows.

oh wow forgot about this...

nah...don't think I'll be going...didn't think I'd be skiing this early when I first posted. But now, nah screw this, gotta make up for lost time, I'm going skiing :)