Atop the "Mule". The overlook at Mules Ear, North Fork Park.
The People that make it all happen
LOTOJA itself is a pretty big event. It passes through numerous communities, three states and over 200+ miles - all in one day. On any given year, it is said, there may be 1,600 participants, with another 4,000 support and other associated individuals. This doesn't take into account the countless many that willingly do their part to make it all happen - year after year. Pretty much for everyone involved, it is the highpoint of the year.
Ham Radio operators and rolling support
For the past ten years or so, I have been on the email list for the LOTOJA HAMS. These are devoted amateur (by name only) Ham radio operators. My understanding is it is primarily from one club, but supported by a lot of people of the same interest and passion. These guys know their business. I start seeing the email chains many months before the race. As time gets closer, they are themselves getting busier by the day. Countless hours go into to setting up repeaters and programs, with incredible coordination and interplay - all before race day itself. On race day, these people are on the road, as well as at various points along the course, ensuring we riders are covered. It is a dynamic operation, that has to adapt to conditions on the fly, while rolling-up everything at the backend of the race. Pretty much every person in the event will see these guys and not have any idea the effort and sacrifice made. I would compare them to a fine crafted, precision time-piece. From the outside looking in, you only see the result. When you open the case, be prepared to be overwhelmed by what otherwise appears to be a mystery.
Thanks to all you folks that do it year after year, and get us riders all home safely. You are all heroes in my book.
Volunteers
Also well before race day, many other people are involved as volunteers, helping with many facets of the large operation. This goes through race day, until everything is packed up and sent home. From those that help fill packets, administrate registration, setup and take down venues, organize the starting line, operate all the neutral feed zones along the way, aid in traffic control and directions - the list goes on. I can tell you as a veteran rider, seeing these friendly and encouraging individuals along the way is nothing short of amazing. Pulling into a neutral for a little water and getting a boost of confidence is always tremendous. All of us see you along the way, but I'm sure you may not always hear the thanks and gratitude as we pass by. I think I can safely speak for pretty much every racer/rider to express the thanks and sincere gratitude we all have for your effort and support. Never doubt your effect on this event and those people you support. Thank you so very much!
EMS and Law Enforcement
Putting a bunch of crazed people on bikes, over the course of a very long day is often a combination for some sort of complication. From law enforcement doing the lead-out at the beginning, to those managing traffic, this has to be no easy task. Along the way, we may see law enforcement teamed-up with EMS helping distressed riders, or the occasional mishap - and believe me, there are occasional mishaps. All that said, the professionals that fill this role have proven to be stellar. They are the ones that provide a measure of delineation between the event and community - in the best of ways. They are truly supportive and professional in every aspect and deserve the respect of us all. Thanks for being that authority we can depend on when needed. We are in good hands....
Ahhh...The Race Director and his staff
This guy is amazing. I have been privileged to get to know him over the years - and yes, he still answers my calls. He is just a dang good guy. He remembers details of everyone and everything, but is very personable. He is the driving force behind the entire operation. Give him a week in the UN General Council, world hunger and peace will have been solved. Of course that would mean a lot of diplomats out of jobs, but maybe we should let him give it a try. After all, what he does every year, with the countless communities, municipalities, State agencies, private operations and commercial enterprises, is likely more than all the combine work at the UN for the same billing period - and I'm serious. He and his limited cadre are laser focused, year after year, delivering a premier event that is unrivaled. Consider what happened in 2020 (COVID) and 2021, where they had to setup a last minute, alternate finish-line with limited resources and virtually no notice - they are committed to making it happen. Where others did fail, many to never return, he and his group drove through the tempest with determination and resolve.
Thanks B.C! Don't take that job if the U.N. does call. We need you here at LOTOJA. You are the heartbeat of the event.
Huntsman Heroes
I still have still have all my files in directories as "HHH" (Huntsman Hometown Heroes). For me, I just refer to them generally as "Huntsman". They do some amazing things and for all the right reasons. It would be wrong for me to take any credit here, as they provide the machine and means to do what we all have been able to do. Of course the machine won't work without the support of all of you - so it is a symbiotic relationship. They have other events throughout the year, such as their Sports-Fest and other partners (Ogden and SLC Marathons & Little Red), all helping fight the "Big-C". The pride one feels when supporting such a worthy cause is totally enhanced when working with the great people at Huntsman. I wear there colors every year with a sense of pride.
Back on the for an early autumn ride.
Autumn and what to expect
I try not to make this blog about myself, but rather those experiences and influences about all of us. Autumn is truly my favorite time of the year - for all kinds of reasons. Riding in North Fork Park this time of year is remarkable. Whether riding, walking, or simply driving through; everyone should experience it one way, or another. To that end, tune-in occasionally. I'll pass as much along as possible. The Porpoise rides until it snows....and then some. Occasionally we throw in a little extra from somewhere else. Regardless, it is all for you, the ones that really make it all happen.
Ride HARD!
