We have spilled plenty of words in the Journal recently about the challenges of sustaining our local racing scene. Between our deep-dives into data on New York City road racing and our recent conversation with Tom Mains, one takeaway is clear: the health of grassroots bike racing depends on the community stepping up to support—and organize—great events.
Of course, talking about the need for more races is one thing. Actually figuring out permits, insurance, course design, and day-of logistics is another.
Maybe you have a local park near you that would make for a perfect cyclocross course, or you've been kicking around an idea for a new grassroots CX race, but you just aren't sure where to start. To help bridge that gap, the To Be Determined Development Grant Program is teaming up with long-time event directors Kacey and Gabe Lloyd of Long Tail Productions for a live Zoom session on the ins-and-outs of setting up and running your own race.
If you have spent any time racing on the East Coast, you are likely already familiar with Kacey and Gabe’s work. Former elite racers turned professional event producers, they have years of experience putting on fun races with some of the highest production values around. If you've ever lined up at Pineapple CX, Fifth Street Cross, or the Easton Criterium—events we've highlighted on the Journal before for being a gold standard in rider and spectator experience—you've experienced a Long Tail Creative race firsthand.
What to Expect
This 90-minute session on Zoom will feature a discussion with Kacey and Gabe covering what they have learned over the years about how to build, fund, and run a successful event from the ground up. We will leave plenty of time in the back half of the session for audience Q&A, so bring your specific questions about venues, budgets, and logistics.
How to Attend
It’s easy, just head over to the following Bikereg page and sign-up. It’s completely free!
Date: November 10th at 8PM
https://www.bikereg.com/so-you-want-to-run-a-cx-race
If you can’t make it, we’re planning on recording the session and sharing it on the Journal as a future resource for race directors.
