This is a rant post. I’ve delayed posting anything because this has been going through my mind since LA. I’m going to outline a few ideas that surfaced this weekend.
When did alleycats turn into sanctioned street races? Alleycats have very few to no rules. Alleycats shouldn’t have 17 categories to win from. Alleycats are thrown by the Race Organizer, not a bunch of people who feel the race is entitled to them. Alleycats are going to be free or cost something; don’t bitch about how much or where the money’s going to. I understand it’s important not to alienate someone because they like to ride a road or track bike, but it’s an ALLEYCAT. They’re unsanctioned, dangerous, and if you don’t like the rules, don’t go.
If it ain’t your problem, don’t bother being a voice. Riders who feel cheated can stand up for themselves; not the pit crew, not a blogger, not the fuckin birds in the tree. We’re adults and we can act like adults.
How you act will showcase who you are. If you’re going to air out the issues on the internet, BE POLITE. Don’t mouth off because you didn’t understand the rules. “But he said…” is the dumbest repeat. Learn how to race right and you won’t have to worry about it.
Some people take this bike thing too seriously. It's supposed to be fun, right? So who cares if you came in 30th place because I sure don't. If you're using your alleycat winnings to pay for your rent or leverage for a bike sponsorship, you're doing it wrong.
All this has taught me a lot about my role posting and reposting other people's shit, my desires from photography, and community outreach. I'm taking a vacation until next week when I'll decide where I'm going with all this.
Until then, keep your eyes peeled, your knuckles white, and rubber side down.
