Wheel trucks and lead cars

[Eden]

Driving can be even more interesting - depending on which car you are, you get to see most of the race unfold right there! I think my favorite job has been follow 1 - the car with the official. You really get the scoop on what's going on if you get that job.

Certainly it is fine for the person in the wheel car to change the wheel. If the rider is on top of everything, they will get the flat one off and if you have a partner, they will jump out and make the swap. You might have to radio the officials with the number of anyone you give a change to - especially if they are unable to get back onto the pack. They like to know where everyone is. It is kind of a no-no to pace riders back to the pack, but some officials will look the other way.....

I don't think it has to be a big race for neutral support to show up. FSA does the mens cat 1/2's at a lot of our races - they are a local company though. I'm not sure if anyone actually pays them to do it or not.. it might be part of the sponsorship they give the teams. They even come to some of our early season "training" races. On the other hand actual team cars - you won't see those until you get to real serious pro level racing (NRC or UCI) and even then only for the pro fields.

A couple of other tips - use the restroom right before you go - you won't have a chance to stop once the racing starts. Take snacks and drinks too for the same reason.

[Grog]

That's exciting Tuckervill! I'm sure you'll have a blast and be a great lead car driver.

It seems from the race schedule that the racers that are theoretically the faster are going first. It is not impossible that the second group catches the first, but the schedule is built to avoid that.

Good luck and don't forget to report!