not that I race, but...... I think keep the run. It mixes it up and is another skill and can change the feild again, as with going in and out of the surf. I think that clubbie events have a good format and have evolved over the years to be good for competitors and spectators.
i like simondos course.
there is a lot more surfing- left and rights.
carnage happens at every turn and change over any way. have a look in the latest sup world. boards and people getting trashed every where all over the course. brings a tear to the eye to see all those boards getting smashed- just for the crowd
avoiding an in coming or out going paddler is no different to any surf session at the goldie.
i reckon its the go
ps these bop races -can you get your board insured against damage
.
I have yet to participate in a BOP event but after watching a few on youtube I think it might take something away from the apeal to spectators. If the course is set up to come in along a jetty/pier then the beach spectators can still get a great view of the action. Or on the right highish tide and with the appropriate crowd contol then it would work well at a rivermouth (ie the Alley) where the inshore turn could perhaps be within the rivermouth.
Someone mentioned the clubbie races and have a handful of common formats works well to mix things up and keep things interesting.
Cheers
Herb
If you want this watersport to pick up momentum look at the old uncle tobys
This is what I don't understand - how is it more visible for sponsors and spectators to have the racers turn at the water's edge or in 30cm of water, or even run on the sand about 5 metres from the water, as opposed to running 20 metres up the sand, turning around and running back? BOP running is nothing like Uncle Tobys (and thank God for that). At most, a BOP course includes a 50 metre run.
And as for that Iron Man footage, is the run not the most boring part of the event? Have a look at it. It's like watching grass grow. They're running slower than a marathon.
I think you all have valid points and I really like simondos course, but still keep the run it. It gives the paddler a break and a chance to gain or lose ground on your opponent. Maybe add some of the crossfit games exercises that are on ESPN at the moment for the ultimate workout. It could be called survival of the fittest.
Elite Races such as the Rainbow Sandals / Gerry events I think are seperate to what Jacko is talking about, they are different league. I think he is talking more about the local events in Australia and is taking into consideration an event with less of a run leg may see participation rates increase. Am sure you will let me know if I am wrong Jacko.
Personally, whilst I think that the inclusion of a run leg is good as it gets those participating closer to spectators so they get the expected "move ya fat ass" comments from family and friends, perhaps reduce the length of the run and remove any requirement for soft sand running. Just my opinion.
