Support Your Local and Not So Local.

Wellingtonian cyclists, generally, are very good at supporting local events. By this I mean local road, mountain bike (all styles), cyclocross etc. Whether it's organised by a cycling club, a local bike shop or a couple of guys that want to dedicate their time to raise money for a cause or because they just want to hang out with other riders.

We are immensely lucky to have an army of volunteers (yes, they're not paid) prepared to organise and marshall all of these events for us. But for this system to maintain it's momentum, we (the riders)  need to turn up.

Recently, the CX Nationals were held in Hawkes Bay and comments were made regarding the attendance numbers and there were lots of reasons given as to why that was the case. Some of them were valid. Forget that it was held in the middle of the season, take a step back and ask yourself "why do I do CX?" A small handful of us have visions of medals and podiums, however unlikely, and the rest, the bulk of riders, are there for FUN. So, if you ride for fun, why not get involved in a national event? You surely realise that if only the ones who think they're going to win turn up, the organising club will lose soooo much money that, next year, no organisers will want to touch it. THE END.

My suggestion is, get involved, make a long weekend of an out of town event. If it's within your means make the most of an opportunity to ride with some of the same people you see at your local events and a bunch of like minded strangers. Take your bikes (CX and mountain), because it is almost guaranteed that there will be other riding to do, than just the race. Take your family. Do your kids ride CX? Just treat it like a little holiday. Get out there and do it. It's still fun, it's just somewhere else. Somewhere different to ride, a new experience, AND you're supporting the sport and the clubs and organisers that are putting in an insane amount of energy (for free) so others can partake in a sport they love.

Karen and I believe in supporting things just to keep them alive. You could do that too. In a city like Wellington, us riders (particularly off road riders) get a lot given to us. From land providers, volunteer trail builders and supporters. If you don't play (pay) your part, the system falls down.

Become a financial member of your local trail or turn up for a work party (that is a rewarding day out). Here are a few we support. Makara Peak Supporters Trail Fund Wellington Mountain Bike Club

I know there are a whole bunch of you playing your part and I thank you. Talk to the guys and gals you ride with and see if they are doing their share. A small increase in participation means the world to all involved.