June 3-5: Tri West Omnium

This weekend, the fine folks at Planet Adventure Race bring us a second installment of a 3-day criterium omnium weekend. Racing kicks off Friday evening at Hummel Park in Plainfield. Saturday and Sunday action takes place at Eagle Creek Park, one of largest municipal parks in the United States. Saturday's course utilizes the 'traditional' course (utilized by Dan Daly's Indiana Race Series for many years) - a gently rolling loop through dense woods, with just two real turns. Last year PA introduced us to the Eagle Creek 'contemporary' course, which incorporates a number of tight technical turns. The two courses offer a nice variety - Saturday is more 'wide open, full throttle', while Sunday's course will more tight and technical. Should be a fabulous weekend of racing!

In other race related news, for the past 14+ years, Dan's Indiana Race Series has been affiliated with ABR. Dan recently announced on his website that his crits will now be run under USA Cycling, due to "established infrastructure in place, local and statewide support, and accomplished officials." IMHO, this should be good news for everyone - there will not be races held on conflicting dates, Dan should see bigger turnouts, and racers only have to take out one license. For new racers especially, I think this should also help eliminate confusion regarding upgrade points and race categories. Other promoters should also benefit, as more quality racing in Indiana will hopefully help grow the sport, both by attracting more out-of-town racers, as well as developing more local interest.