Racing Outside the CTR dates

[Flounder]

For the third year in a row, the CTR dates conflict with the largest trade show in the ENTIRE outdoor industry, Outdoor Retailer in SLC.  It's getting really annoying. Why this event has to happen at that exact time baffles me. It's only slightly better than having it during Interbike...but I digress.

Is it possible to race, and be an official racer, if I race before the actual race dates?

[bartspedden]

I can't really comment about anything "official" but last year racers started at slightly different times and some raced from south to north too. As far as "why" for the start date, Stefan had the racers vote last year here: http://www.bikepacking.net/forum/index.php/topic,1718.0.html

And I think ITTs rock anyway if you want a really personal and isolated experience.  For me, the mass start is about being part of group suffering and finding the joy in it.  I wouldn't care too much about being an "official racer" it's all on the honor system anyway, and the experience, if you finish, will totally compensate for anything you might of missed.  Do your ITT, be honest, and your bragging rights will be secure.

[Flounder]

Thanks,

I've done the CT before. Done tons of racing. I'm looking forward to combining the two. Looks like I'll be out there a week early.

Cheers,

Flounder

[bartspedden]

Nice! I did the CT before racing it too - combining the two turned out to be a game changer for me - it helped me break through some mental barriers. Ever consider something like the AZT 300 or 750? It starts on April 13 so it shouldn't interfere with your trade show.

[Stefan_G]

For the third year in a row, the CTR dates conflict with the largest trade show in the ENTIRE outdoor industry, Outdoor Retailer in SLC.  It's getting really annoying. Why this event has to happen at that exact time baffles me. It's only slightly better than having it during Interbike...but I digress.

Unbeknownst to me, this is likely the 5th year the CTR conflicts with the largest trade show in the outdoor industry.     Unfortunately, (?!) I don't have any affiliations with the outdoor industry and have just picked dates based on other's input, or for this year it was a no brainer - end of July with a full moon - maybe there really will be less rain...

Is it possible to race, and be an official racer, if I race before the actual race dates?

In a word:  Abso-friggin-lutely!!  Not only possible, but also encouraged!  While you won't be an official "racer" in the sense that you're not racing against others that start at a common time, you'll absolutely be listed in the ITT section of the results page.  And, IMO, with the way the numbers have increased for the CTR, it's probably more enjoyable to do an ITT.  Keep an eye on the weather, and when there is a good window, git 'er done!