FLCC> Hollenbecks Spring Classic

[Glenn Swan]

         The "Central New York Spring Training Races" now known as "The 
Hollenbeck's Spring Classic" has been happening for almost 25 years now 
!  I remember standing in the rain off the side of route 392 in a cold rain 
waiting to hand in my entry fee to Tob DeBoer or Leigh or Wendy Phoenix in 
the back of a van back in the early 80's. The lines were rather shorter 
then, since the entire field was about 8-12 racers when the weather was bad 
(which it usually was).
         Fast-forward to today, with over 200 riders racing in multiple 
categories, porta-johns, corner marshalls, pace and follow vehicles, and an 
army of volunteers many times the size of the entire event in its early 
years. What has remained constant all this time is a commitment to good 
racing on a challenging, classic road course, and a focus on making it a 
safe and enjoyable event. I think we have succeeded in keeping these 
principles - witness riders coming from New England, Canada and other 
distant points despite our distinct lack of cash/prize money. And they do 
it year after year. The warm spirit that pervades the parking/staging area 
of the race also reflects well on the event. The club should be very proud.
         Mark Rishniw has thanked many of the volunteers who were 
absolutely critical in allowing the event to happen so smoothly that it 
almost looked easy. In fact, with such a core of experienced volunteers it 
is almost easy...you just guide the ship in the right direction and then 
stand back and let the momentum of years of habit and experience just glide 
along. (and hope like heck that there are no hidden obstacles or other 
disasters lurking beneath the waterline...) Captain Barker really did an 
incredible job of attending to details prior to the race, and deserves much 
of the credit for the success of this year's event, and she has certainly 
carried our level of organization up a few notches over the last couple of 
years. The skills and energy of the core volunteers (most of whom Mark 
listed) really made the event a good one. It's satisfying to be part of 
such a team.
         Thanks to all of the volunteers who stepped up and helped put on 
the show !  Job well done !

Glenn Swan 
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