-----Original Message-----

From: Dan Norton [mailto:Dan.Norton@ci.seattle.wa.us]

Sent: Monday, October 26, 1998 8:50 AM

To: Markw@abtcorp.com

Subject: cross vs. mtb

Mark, I was passed along your thoughts on cross races and since I am the guy that puts on the NW races and have been the stickler for cross bikes I thought I would at least explain my reasoning to you before I am condemned to the bin of history with the Luddites. The US has been an after thought in the world of cross in the past I think that this is because of many factors among them the habit of the US riders treating cross as an aberration. Norcal has a checkered history of naked riders, and riders in dresses. Now I have nothing against some fun and a spoof of ourselves, and not taking the whole scene so seriously, but the point is that cross is a serious discipline that deserves the attention and focus of concentration of cyclo-cross riders and press. To compete in Europe you must race a cross bike, to race in UCI races you must race a cross bike, so why not train and race US riders at the world standard? When I listen to arguments like yours I often wonder "Are these guys making a complaint to improve the sport or are they just upset at the increased lack of competiveness of their lacsidaisical approach to the sport. Heres a suggestion, if you dont like the way races are held or rules that are enforced ( in another part of the country for crying out loud ) then have and promote your own race. You could even let tricycles and 3 legged potato sack riders in. Up here we have identical courses, identical barricades, and identical times for a separate division thats called MTN Cross. I see that you like racing in category ( masters), well this is a separate category. See you at the races and as I pass you ( on my cross bike) try a flat earth argument, it will make as much sense.