REGISTRATION

When can I sign up?

How do I sign up?

How can I be sure I’m registered?

How much does it cost?

Do I pay a handling fee if I register online?  Is it cheaper to mail my entry?

I am not a member of OBRA.  Do I need to buy a one-day license?

Can teams register?  Is there a team discount?

Can I register the day of the race?

Why does registration close so early?

Is there a limit to the number of racers?

Can I get a refund?

I signed up for the race, but now I can’t come.  What do I do?

Do I have to show my racing license at registration?

THE RACE

What does the course look like?  What is the elevation profile?  How many miles are there in each stage?

What kind of support is provided?

Can my team support feed in the feedzones?

Can my family/friends hand out food or water on the course?

What if I need water and I’m not near a feedzone?

What if I get dropped?

What if there’s a crash?

Where is the best place to watch the race?

Is the race on a closed course?

Where do my race numbers go?

Is there a wheel lottery?

Can I skip a stage?

Is the women’s course different from the men’s?

Where are the restrooms?

Is the race hard?

I’m a beginning rider/racer.  Can I race Elkhorn?

I’m a Pro racer.  Should I race Elkhorn?

How do I get back to town after stage 1 and stage 4?

Where will results be posted?

When will results be posted?

What do I win?

Where do I collect my prize money?

Can you mail me my prize money?

How do I make a protest an official’s ruling?

GENERAL RULES

GENERAL QUESTIONS

When is Elkhorn 2009?

Where is the Elkhorn Classic Stage Race?

Why should I come to Elkhorn?

Where can I stay in Baker City?

Where can I eat in Baker City?

Is there a grocery store nearby?

Where can I find a Starbucks?

Where can I find wi-fi?

Can I bring my family?

Do you have a band aid?

Do you have a spare tube?  An allen wrench?  Chain lube?

What should I wear?

Who is the man in the scarf?

Where do I get a T-shirt?

Where can I go during the race to ask questions?

Is it safe to leave my stuff at the High School during the race?

REGISTRATION

Return

When can I sign up?

Registration opened Feb 1^st, 2010.  Registration closes on Monday June 14, 2010 at 5:00pm. 

How do I sign up?

Register online via  The New OBRA Online Registration site. If you prefer to register by mail, please follow the instructions on the Elkhorn Mail In page.  Mailed registrations must be postmarked by June 5^th.  Please make sure to follow all instructions regarding your race license at Elkhorn Signup Details.

How can I be sure I’m registered?

Registration lists are posted on our website starting in early March.  Check the list to make sure you’re on it.  If you believe you have registered but aren’t on the list, please contact registration@elkhornclassic.com.  For those who register online via The New OBRA Online Registration Site you can confirm your entry at any time.

How much does it cost?

The cost for the race is $105 per rider.  After June 1, the cost goes up to $120 per rider. 

Do I pay a handling fee if I register online?  Is it cheaper to mail my entry?

Technically there is a handling fee when you register online, but the processing of mailed entries is more labor intensive for the race promoter.  Therefore, this year all registrants pay the same amount—$105—and this cost includes any handling fees whether you register online or by mail. 

Return

I am not a member of OBRA.  Do I need to buy a one-day license?

Yes.  This is an OBRA-sanctioned event and you must possess an OBRA racing license, or OBRA recognized affiliate license, to participate (ABR, CBR, or ACA).  Non-OBRA members will need to purchase a one-day (one-event) license for $5 during their registration process, or for a season license can visit www.OBRA.org. USPS registrants need to download and include the event form and fee as detailed on the Elkhorn Mail In page.  Online registrants will see an option.

However, be sure to indicate that you need a one-day license when you register online.  If you are a member of OBRA, simply include your OBRA number when you register.

PLEASE NOTE: ALL entrants will be required to provide their valid racing license regardless of the issuing body in order to confirm your race classification. Proof of Masters eligibility via a government issued ID is also needed for Masters racers in addition to your classification.

Can teams register?  Is there a team discount?

Teams can register at a rate of 5-for-the-price-of-4 ($420 for 5 riders or $840 for 10 riders).  Teams MUST register by mail.  Please contact info@elkhornclassic.com for more information.

Can I register the day of the race?

Maybe - but don't count on it.  Elkhorn requires pre-registration to guarantee a spot. Day of registration is not guaranteed at rider checkin, is Thursday night only, and is $150.

Why does registration close so early?

The Race Director and many support personnel are based in the Portland area in Oregon.  Since we are 5 hours from Baker City, we need to wrap up a lot of logistics well before the race starts.  We try to give you as much time as possible, but in order to provide an excellent, well-organized race, we need to allow time to process all the registrations. 

Return

Is there a limit to the number of racers?

Yes.  All fields are limited as noted below.  The Cat 4/5 and Masters fields traditionally fill up prior to registration closing.  Register early to ensure your spot in the race!

            Men’s

Pro/1/2                     – 100 riders

            Cat 3                        – 100 riders

            Cat 4/5                     –   75 riders

            Masters 1/2/3 & 4/5 –   75 riders total though – if Masters racers offer sufficient volunteers the Masters would be split into two fields in which case there would be a 75 rider limit for each.

            Women’s – four categories, run as one field.  Total for all four fields is 100.

If the Men’s Cat 4/5 field, Masters field, or Women’s field should fill up early in the registration process, the Race Director reserves the right to split those fields prior to the start of the race.  

If a category fills up, a waiting list will be started, first come, first served.  The week before the race, the Race Director will contact you if you will be allowed to race.

Can I get a refund?

Full refunds (excluding the process fee) are available until May 1, 75% refunds are available until June 1. There are no refunds after June 1, however, you may transfer, sell, barter, or trade your entry to another racer, teammate, or waiting list member.  Note that refunds will not be paid until after the race is completed. 

I signed up for the race, but now I can’t come.  What do I do?

Elkhorn registrations are transferable until June 14^th when regular registration closes.  If you know someone who wants to race in your place, please contact info@elkhornclassic.com to work out the details.  If you are transferring your registration, Elkhorn Classic is not responsible for the financial details.  We will ensure that the right name is on the paid registration, regardless of who paid for it. 

We can also carry over your registration until next year.  Contact info@elkhornclassic.com when you register next year, and we’ll take care of it.

Do I have to show my racing license at registration?

YES.  We must validate your racing category with a current 2010 racing license.  Please note that this is an OBRA and USCF requirement; we’re not doing this just to annoy you.

Return

THE RACE

What does the course look like?  What is the elevation profile?  How many miles are there in each stage?

For complete information on the stages of the Elkhorn Classic Stage Race, check out The Stages of Elkhorn.  For returning riders, note that the stages are the same as the 2009 race.

What kind of support is provided?

Elkhorn provides neutral support in the feedzones.  There are two feedzones in Stage 1 and Stage 4.  (See the stage profiles for details on location.)  Neutral water is provided and we hope to be able to also provide neutral food if our sponsorship provides.  Do not expect to have neutral support meet any or all of your food needs. There will be water in the feedzones and at the finishline.

A neutral sag wagon follows the last racer in each group.  Elkhorn does not enforce a time cut for any stage, and we want everyone to finish each stage and start the next one.  However, sag wagon personnel reserve the right to pull riders who are more than two hours behind the first finisher in their field.  This is due to permit requirements and the fact that our volunteers have a lot of work to do after each race.  Please respect their decision.  In the last seven years, we’ve never had to ask someone to quit the race.

Can my team support feed in the neutral feedzones?

NO.  Team support must locate PAST the neautral feedzones as marked and cannot be located outside of  that designated area.  Team support MUST feed in the area just past the neautral feedzones.  No team support can be provided along the course.  Officials carry water in their vehicles and may feed riders at their discretion. 

Team support (or any individual support) CANNOT PASS THE FIELDS on the race course.  Plan to locate at one of the two feedzones; you will not be able to feed at both zone 1 and zone 2.  You can leave prior to the start of the race and locate near feedzone 1, or drive the course backwards to locate near feedzone 2. 

Team support that violates these rules may result in time penalties or disqualification for your rider or team.  Please understand that these rules exist for the safety of all our riders.

BECAUSE THIS IS NOT A CLOSED COURSE, NO FEEDING IS ALLOWED ON THE LEFT SIDE OF THE ROAD.  SAG SUPPORT IS NOT ALLOWED ON THE LEFT SIDE OF THE ROAD. RIDERS WITH MECHANICAL ISSUES MUST DISMOUNT ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE ROAD. Any team or individual support feeding on the left side of the road will result in disqualification of the rider and/or team.  (Remember, the center line rule is strictly enforced.  Don’t cross the center line.  Period.) 

Can my family/friends hand out food or water on the course? 

See above:  Feeding is ONLY allowed in the official feedzones.  The same rules apply for family and friends as for teams in the feedzones. Volunteers for neutral support or neutral feeding is happily and always welcomed. 

Note that anyone feeding, whether for a team or an individual, may not deny any rider food or water.  In other words, if you’re holding out a bottle of water and a rider—not your rider—comes to grab it, you can’t pull it back.  This is a violation of governing rules and may be punishable by a time penalty or disqualification.

Return

What if I need water and I’m not near a feedzone?

Every official’s car carries extra water in case of emergency.  However, you should start each stage with two full bottles and plan to take water at each feedzone.  You may request water, but it is at the discretion of the official.

What if I get dropped?

If you want to finish the stage, we will let you do that (within reason).  If you want to abandon the race, the sag wagon will pick you up and take you back into town.  We don’t leave anyone out on the course. Per race governing rules, any rider who is dropped (considered to be any rider passed behind the pelotons neutral support caravan) must adhere to all rules of the road. You are required to ride to the ride, you do not have the complete unobstructed lane, and you must yield to all traffic control devices unless otherwise instructed by a race volunteer.

What if there’s a crash?

Medical support is available at the finish line where medical personnel will provide basic first aid so that you can return safely back to town. However, due to the rural nature of the course, medical support is not necessarily able to appear at a moment’s notice and may not be used to transport you to the hospital.  If you are able to move, you may be asked to ride back to the hospital in town in a team car or volunteer car rather than waiting for an ambulance to arrive.  Anyone who wants to be transported to a hospital will be transported one way or another. 

Note that you are responsible for the costs of any medical expenses incurred during the race. 

Return

Where is the best place to watch the race?

For the safety of our racers, we need to minimize traffic on the course.  Do not plan to watch your racer start, then drive past the fields to a point a few miles into the race, watch your racer pass, then drive pass the fields again, etc.  It is better to leave before the race starts and set up at a point early in the race, then drive the course backwards to a spot near the end of the race.

Most of the Elkhorn Classic road stages are on two lane country roads.  You will not be allowed to pass the fields unless an official car waves you through.  Often the easiest way to find a good spot to watch is to drive the course backwards to a spot somewhere in the last quarter of the race.   

Our ability to secure the permits for this race depends on minimal traffic interruptions and controlled racing conditions.  Please respect our limitations and do not expect to drive on the course, passing fields, throughout the race.

NOTE: VEHICLES REPEATED OVERTAKING THE PELOTON WILL HAVE THEIR RIDER PENALIZED OR DISQUALIFIED.  

For stage 2, the time trial, it is best to park away from the starting line and watch from the side of the road.  The shoulder is narrow, so it is not the best location for spectators. The Time Trial course may change.

The best racing action can be seen during the stage 3 Criterium in downtown Baker City.  Pick a spot anywhere along the course (the inside side is best).  You’ll be surrounded by lots of locals, so be sure to thank them for their support!

Is the race on a closed course?

NO.  Due to Oregon Department of Transportation and City and County permit requirements, we are not able to close the roads.  Although the course we use is a main route for local residents, traffic should be fairly light in most areas. 

Because we are not racing on a closed course, and for the safety of riders, volunteers, and spectators, the CENTER LINE RULE IS STRICTLY ENFORCED, even through the last 200 meters of each stage and the finish line.  Do not cross the center line, period.

Where do my race numbers go?

See each stage for specifics, but in a nutshell:  one number goes horizontally across your lower back, and the other number goes vertically on your side (hip to armpit) on the RIGHT side….except at the crit, where your number must be on the LEFT side.  Please make sure your numbers are visible; we use a finish line camera to capture numbers, so the clearer your numbers are, the easier it is for officials to finalize results, and the quicker results will get posted.  Remember, it is hard to get placed, if the camera never sees your number cross the line.

Return

Is there a wheel lottery?

Officially, yes.  Realistically, maybe—it’s up to you.  Bring wheels to the wheel pit area and expect them to be used.  If there are not enough wheels, a wheel lottery will be enacted.  If a wheel lottery is enacted and your number is chosen, you MUST provide a set of wheels.  In past years, we have had to enact a wheel lottery for at least one if not both road stages for at least one field. The race will not begin until the wheel lottery is met to the discretion of the official.

Can I skip a stage?  (For example:  I know I’m not going to win; can I rest up?) 

NO, not if you want to race the next stage.  You must finish the previous stage in order to start the next one.  Because there are both stage and GC prizes, it is not fair to “sit out” a stage and save it all. However, note that this is one reason Elkhorn does not enforce a time cut.

Is the women’s course different from the men’s?

No.  Women and men of all categories race the exact same course (with slightly different times in the criterium, depending on category). 

Where are the restrooms?

There are restrooms available inside the High School and porto-potties outside the High School and at the finish line of each stage. 

Return

Is the race hard?

We think it’s pretty challenging.  But we like it that way.  If you like climbing, you’ll love it.  If you don’t like climbing, enjoy the fabulous scenery and the suffering, and remember that finishing a race like Elkhorn builds character.

We have considered reducing the field for some fields, however, since nearly every other stage race does this, it is what makes Elkhorn special and we have had overwhelming support to continue that tradition. There is something rewarding to be able to say you finished an event of the same distance, terrain, and difficulty as everyone else, pro or novice.

I’m a beginning rider/racer.  Can I race Elkhorn?

Elkhorn is a great race for fit beginners.  You should be able to ride a reasonable road race pace in a peloton and be able to ride for four to six hours on hilly terrain.  Each year we get plenty of new racers plus a lot of returning racers to show you the ropes.   

There is no time cut, so if you want to finish, you can finish.  If you lose contact with the peloton and field support vehicles, note that there is a final sweep vehicle (sag wagon), so you will not be abandoned on the course if you get dropped.  Elkhorn runs neutral wheel support, but you should carry a tube and a pump in case of a flat if you’re off the back of the group. 

Plan to carry all your food, and take water at all the feedzones.  There’s a good chance you’ll get your own water bottles back if you want to, but it’s not guaranteed, so don’t bring your favorites.     

Bring your family and friends.  Stage 2, the time trial, is not spectator-friendly.  It’s easy to find a spot on stage 1 or 4 for spectators to park and watch.  Stage 3, the crit, is very spectator-friendly. 

I’m a Pro racer.  Should I race Elkhorn?

Yes!  We may not be as flashy as those big races and our payouts may be smaller, but we’re a well-organized race on a challenging course.  

Return

How do I get back to town after stage 1 and stage 4?

After stage 1, the easiest thing to do is ride back into town.  It’s only about 5 miles back to the High School from the I84 crossing, and it’s a good cool down.  Please obey all the rules of the road and do not block traffic on your way back to town.

Parking is limited at the end of stage 1.  We need to keep the road clear for incoming riders, so there is no parking within about ½ mile from the finish. Parking will be available at a nearby field. Please respect the owners land and because of this parking there is no parking on the road at all.  Please carpool and plan to walk a ways if you want to see the finish.  Please do not stand in the road to cheer your racers; this is not a closed course. 

Also parking at the end of Stage 4 is limited in space and restricted to the South side of the road only. There is no parking on the road leading up to the finish line on the east side of Dooley Mountain. Spectators are constantly walking up and down the road.

For those riding back to the Baker School complex from Stage 4, there is a five mile downhill, then about six miles into town, so you can ride back to town on your own and at your leisure (following regular road rules and etiquette).  Or, ride down the mountain and pick up the school bus shuttle at the bottom which will take you to the edge of town near the RR underpass.

There is some parking available at the top of Dooley Mountain, just past the finish line.  So another option is to park a car at the top, again space is limited so carpooling is strongly encouraged. 

Where will results be posted?

Race results are posted at Baker High School first, and at the host hotel as soon after that as possible.

When will results be posted?

Preliminary stage and GC results will be posted as soon after the race as possible.  We understand that you are anxious to see the results, and we do our best to post them quickly.  However, there are sometimes circumstances (such as protests) that can delay results.  Please be patient. Per governing rules, the prior stages results are not considered official until the start of the next stage. For the final stage, results are not considered official until preliminary results have been displayed for a 15 minute period to allow for protests. Protests are filed under OBRA governing rules.

One way to do your part:  wear your numbers so that they are clearly visible to an official or the finish line camera!  This makes the officials’ job in reviewing the footage from the finish camera much easier. 

What do I win?

Cash, mostly.  Please see the 2009 Elkhorn Payout list of last year’s totals.  The payout is based on the number of riders at the event and in your field and prorated on a 400 rider field, but we strive to do our best.  During the criterium, several downtown merchants will also offer prices and gift certificates.

Winners for each stage also get a winner’s jersey.  Please see someone in the registration area to pick up your jersey. 

Where do I collect my prize money?

Prize money can be collected after the completion of stage 4.  Stages 1 – 3 can be picked up immediately after your Stage 4 finish, but Stage 4 and GC payouts will not given until results are posted, the challenge period has passed, and the results are considered official. Typically this is only a 30-minute process.  Stage-3 primes should be collected immediately following your race.

Can you mail me my prize money?

Because prize money is provided in cash, we prefer not to mail prize money.  Please plan to be at the awards ceremony after stage 4 to pick up your money, or have a friend or teammate pick it up for you.

Return

How do I make a protest an official’s ruling?

Protests may be filed after the preliminary results are posted.  Stage results are not final until the start of the next stage, and all protests must be made before the next stage is started.  For stage 4 (the last stage), protests must be made within 15 minutes after the preliminary results are posted.  Race results will be finalized as soon as possible after that.   

See section 12 of OBRA’s racing rules for more information. The most current version -  (http://www.obra.org/word_docs/2010rules.doc)

All rulings by the Chief Official are final. 

Return

GENERAL RULES

Elkhorn is an OBRA-sanctioned stage race, and as such all OBRA racing rules apply.

The center line rule is strictly enforced.  This is not a closed course. 

Helmets must be worn for all stages. 

You must finish the previous stage in order to start the next stage.

You must sign in for stage 3 (criterium) and stage 4 (Dooley Mountain stage).  Packet pickup at registration counts as your sign in for stage 1, and showing up at your appointed time for the time trial on stage 2 counts as your sign in for that stage. 

Numbers must be properly placed.  See stage details for number placement.  (Easy way to remember:  always wear one number horizontal (if you’re standing) across the back of your jersey, and one vertical on the right side of your jersey…EXCEPT the crit, where the vertical number needs to be on the left.)

Do not litter.   You may discard water bottles in the feedzones only.  Water bottles will be returned to Baker High School as soon as possible after each stage.  Unclaimed water bottles will be discarded.  Time penalties or disqualification may be assessed for racers discarding water bottles or other trash outside of feedzone areas. 

Be nice to the volunteers.  They make this all possible.

Return

GENERAL QUESTIONS

When is Elkhorn 2010?

The 9^th annual Elkhorn Classic Stage Race will be June 18-20, 2010.

Where is the Elkhorn Classic Stage Race?

In and around Baker City, Oregon, on the eastern side of the state. 

Return

Why should I come to Elkhorn?

Elkhorn is a well-established stage race.  The weather is usually quite nice.  But the weather can also be incredibly nasty.  The uncertainty makes things interesting.

Elkhorn is a low-key race.  While there are plenty of Pro/1/2 racers, there are also lots of first-timers, and the Cat 4/5 fields usually fill up.  We let anyone race; we don’t exclude whole categories.  Elkhorn is about providing a stage race opportunity in an excellent venue for racers throughout the region (and anyone willing to come visit). 

It’s challenging.  It’s fun.  It’s a bargain, compared to other stage races.

The best stage race opportunity for women in the state.  No short courses, host housing, tremendous local support.  

Our host city, Baker City, is tremendously welcoming of this event.  It is truly a community event, and you’ll find that the locals are glad to have you.

Elkhorn is an all-volunteer effort, not a money-making one.  It is a labor of love for all involved, and you’ll see that in the way the race is run.

Have you been to Eastern Oregon?  It’s beautiful.  Take some time after the race (or between the time trial and the crit on Saturday) to visit the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center or some of the other local attractions. 

Race with people from throughout the Northwest, including Canada. 

Microbrews.  (See Barley Brown’s.)

The Finish Festival sponsored by Bella’s.

The satisfaction of finishing a challenging stage race.

Return

Where can I stay in Baker City?

See HERE for some links. 

Racers can also camp at Baker High School (inside the gym or outside in tents on the football field) for $5 per night.  See the table at registration for more information.

Women racers may be able to secure host housing.  Please contact Bev Calder for more information.  info@ElkhornClassic.com.

Return

Where can I eat in Baker City?

See HERE for some links, and please take note of our generous sponsors.  Also, please see the information in your race packet for more ideas.

Is there a grocery store nearby?

There is a Safeway and an Albertson’s on Campbell Street (the main road into Baker City from I-84).  From the High School, take E Street to College Street; take a right on College Street and go about 5 blocks to Campbell Street.  Take a left on Campbell and follow it until you see Safeway on your right, south, or Albertson’s on your left, north (as you head toward I-84). 

Where can I find a Starbucks?

There is one Starbucks in Baker City inside the Safeway on Campbell Street.  However, why not try one of the local coffee shops while you’re in town?  Try Mad Matilda’s—a featured sponsor of Elkhorn—is located on Main Street downtown. 

Where can I find wi-fi?

Most hotels in Baker City have free wi-fi, as do some of the businesses downtown along Main Street.  Also, the Baker County Public Library, just off Campbell and Main, has free wi-fi.

Can I bring my family?

Yes!  Baker City is very family friendly.  However, you are responsible for watching your own kids. 

Sign from local Baker City establishment:  Unattended children will be given an espresso and a free puppy.

Return

Do you have a band aid?

Elkhorn staff do not carry first aid supplies.  We do have medics available, there will be one at the finish line of stages 1 and 4.  It’s best to bring a small first aid kit for minor cuts and scrapes.

Do you have a spare tube?  An allen wrench?  Chain lube? 

Elkhorn staff do not carry bike tools, but we’ll do our best to help you track something down. There is neutral pit support during the crit, but a safe, functioning machine is the responsibility of its rider.

What should I wear?

Bring layers, and expect the best and the worst.  The weather is usually hot and dry, but we’ve had rain at the crit, snow on the top of Dooley Mountain, hail, wind, etc.  Be prepared for anything. 

Who is the man in the scarf?

Probably Ernie, the race director.  He has a scarf thing going on, but he pulls it off well, don’t you think?

Return

Where do I get a T-shirt?

At the registration area.  We almost always run out of T-shirts, so buy early if you want to be sure to get one.

Where can I go during the race to ask questions?

Find a volunteer.  They’re usually hanging around near the registration area before the road stages, and they’re probably wearing Elkhorn T-shirts (but maybe last year’s). 

Is it safe to leave my stuff at the High School during the race?

Elkhorn is not responsible for any items left at the High School.  However, there are classified school staff on the premises, and usually some volunteers around the area.  We’ve never had any problems with theft or lost items, and we hope to keep it that way.