There were many different things to think about when preparing for the event. These are three things that were the most important.
Customer: There is definitely a pre-existing fan-base for Cyclocross. Spectators and racers keep up on their own with all of the races. This meant that our job was to try to increase new spectators coming out; specifically, Joan wanted us to get college student interest up. Using things like facebook and posting fliers on campus was how we went about getting information to this untapped generation.
Capabilities: Our biggest set back to capabilities was that one of our significant sponsors pulled out. With a huge deficit, we were forced to find ways to publicize and produce an event that was used to a much larger budget. But because our event had been going on for many years, we did not have to work through some of the kinks of a first time event. In the end, the addition of our event planning team was a significant help to filling in the gaps that were left by the budget deficit.
Competition: As mentioned before, there is a pre-existing fan-base to Cyclocross so getting people to come out was not the biggest challenge. Cycylocross racers love getting messy and would come out no matter what the conditions were. Unfortunately, the weather was our biggest competition for getting new spectators to come out. On weekends with good weather, any number of random people will be out in the park that would have been potential spectators. But because of the rain and cold, many people decided to stay home. Luckily though, it did not effect too many of the die hard racers and fans.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
The 6 A's of the Mercer Cup
This is a detailed account of everything our group did to prepare for the event:
Anticipation: Anticipation for the Cyclocross event has been going on for quite some time but really kicked in to high gear in the last 2 months as our event planning team took on promotions. Our first step was to create a facebook group for Mercer Cyclocross. From there, “Mercer Clyclocross” created an event for the actual day of the races. The event was able to contact of all of the friends of Mercer Cyclocross to get information out about the big event with periodic updates as well. Next, we handed out postcards with event information at Community fest. We also placed some under windshields. Along the way, we also posted on various Cyclocross-related web forums to hype up the event. Next, we hosted a clinic on riding basics to increase interest in new riders. Before the clinic, we placed fliers throughout the TCNJ campus, as well as posting on the facebook page. Our final step of anticipation was to send fliers home with students from Lawrence High School.
Arrival: Arrival was very important for the event because had large quantities of people coming and going throughout the day. Once you entered the park, an electronic sign told drivers where to head for parking. Once you reached the marina (where the event was held), signs told cars to turn right into the parking area. A parking attendant collected money and directed cars where to go. Originally we had a volunteer directing cars where to park but we found that they were fairly able to figure this out on their own and were able to use that volunteer elsewhere. Additionally, we had course marshals at the course crossings to direct spectators once they entered race grounds.
Atmosphere: The atmosphere of a cyclocross race really creates itself. The combination of sponsors, racers and spectators builds into this excitement. Old racing friends catching up since their last race, discussing who they think is going to win. Everyone gets in to it. Additionally, an announcer could be heard almost anywhere throughout the park broadcasting how the races were going. The cow-bells that people were ringing also pumped of the level of excitement.
Appetite: Food was a key requirement of an outdoor, daylong event as ours was. Warm food and drinks were absolutely necessary because people were standing around in the cold for all of the races. We had a VIP tent that provided coffee, oatmeal, muffins and cookies for the VIP sponsors, racers and volunteers. There was also a sitting area available for spectators to sit down while they ate and still be able to see the races. On Saturday, the food truck had warm sausage, hot dogs, chicken tenders, etc. but they did not have any vegetarian options. Luckily, they picked up on the demand and had veggie burgers for Sunday.
Activity: We didn’t want too many things going on at once to distract people from watching the races. We had races going on at almost all times which made for constant entertainment. Although there were not any interactive activities, spectators could watch the pit crew, bike washing and awards ceremonies as well.
Amenities: There were not any amenities for the spectators of the races, although, there were sponsor tents with various items on display. The amenities we had were for the racers. The winners of the races received a check as well as a gift bag containing things like cliff bars, bike products, t-shirts and socks. We also provided amenities to the volunteers of free food and t-shirts.
Anticipation: Anticipation for the Cyclocross event has been going on for quite some time but really kicked in to high gear in the last 2 months as our event planning team took on promotions. Our first step was to create a facebook group for Mercer Cyclocross. From there, “Mercer Clyclocross” created an event for the actual day of the races. The event was able to contact of all of the friends of Mercer Cyclocross to get information out about the big event with periodic updates as well. Next, we handed out postcards with event information at Community fest. We also placed some under windshields. Along the way, we also posted on various Cyclocross-related web forums to hype up the event. Next, we hosted a clinic on riding basics to increase interest in new riders. Before the clinic, we placed fliers throughout the TCNJ campus, as well as posting on the facebook page. Our final step of anticipation was to send fliers home with students from Lawrence High School.
Arrival: Arrival was very important for the event because had large quantities of people coming and going throughout the day. Once you entered the park, an electronic sign told drivers where to head for parking. Once you reached the marina (where the event was held), signs told cars to turn right into the parking area. A parking attendant collected money and directed cars where to go. Originally we had a volunteer directing cars where to park but we found that they were fairly able to figure this out on their own and were able to use that volunteer elsewhere. Additionally, we had course marshals at the course crossings to direct spectators once they entered race grounds.
Atmosphere: The atmosphere of a cyclocross race really creates itself. The combination of sponsors, racers and spectators builds into this excitement. Old racing friends catching up since their last race, discussing who they think is going to win. Everyone gets in to it. Additionally, an announcer could be heard almost anywhere throughout the park broadcasting how the races were going. The cow-bells that people were ringing also pumped of the level of excitement.
Appetite: Food was a key requirement of an outdoor, daylong event as ours was. Warm food and drinks were absolutely necessary because people were standing around in the cold for all of the races. We had a VIP tent that provided coffee, oatmeal, muffins and cookies for the VIP sponsors, racers and volunteers. There was also a sitting area available for spectators to sit down while they ate and still be able to see the races. On Saturday, the food truck had warm sausage, hot dogs, chicken tenders, etc. but they did not have any vegetarian options. Luckily, they picked up on the demand and had veggie burgers for Sunday.
Activity: We didn’t want too many things going on at once to distract people from watching the races. We had races going on at almost all times which made for constant entertainment. Although there were not any interactive activities, spectators could watch the pit crew, bike washing and awards ceremonies as well.
Amenities: There were not any amenities for the spectators of the races, although, there were sponsor tents with various items on display. The amenities we had were for the racers. The winners of the races received a check as well as a gift bag containing things like cliff bars, bike products, t-shirts and socks. We also provided amenities to the volunteers of free food and t-shirts.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
The Portland Cup
What better way to finish the USGP season than in Portland, OR. The finale takes places on December 6th and 7th and pre-registration is now open. Last year's race was was held in near Hurricane condtitions and boasted some of the biggest fields of the whole season! Year in and year out, Portland offers up the crowds of afficianados the conditions and level of racing that people expect from the sport of 'cross and provides a true test to the amateur and pro athlete alike. Pre-registration closes on December 3rd so don't miss out on this opportunity.
http://www.bikereg.com/events/register.asp?eventid=7120
http://www.bikereg.com/events/register.asp?eventid=7120
Monday, November 17, 2008
Race Results
Please click on the following links to find the results from all of this past weekend's action!
http://www.bikereg.com/Results/2008/11/15-USGP-Mercer-Cup.asp
http://www.bikereg.com/Results/2008/11/16-USGP-Mercer-Cup.asp
http://www.bikereg.com/Results/2008/11/15-USGP-Mercer-Cup.asp
http://www.bikereg.com/Results/2008/11/16-USGP-Mercer-Cup.asp
Leave Your Comments
Thanks to everyone who came out to support the event this weekend whether you were a rider, spectator, or volunteer. We want to know what you liked or disliked about the event so that we can make the proper adjustments for next year. Please leave any of your comments in the replies or feel free to email us at TheMercerCup@gmail.com.
We will have official results and videos from the event within the next few days. Thanks again for all of everyone's support.
We will have official results and videos from the event within the next few days. Thanks again for all of everyone's support.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
This Weekend's Schedule
Friday
4:00 PM Clif Bar Kid's ClinicSaturday
8:00 AM Cat 4 Men 30 minutes
8:45 AM Cat 3/4 Women 30 minutes
8:45 AM Junior 10-16 30 Minutes
9:30 AM Cat 2/3 Men 40 minutes
10:30 AM Masters 45+ 40 minutes
10:30 AM Masters 55+ 40 minutes
11:30 AM USGP UCI Junior 17-18 40 minutes
12:30 PM USGP Masters 35+ (Cat 1-3) 45 minutes
1:45 PM UCI Elite Women 40 minutes
3:00 PM UCI Elite Men/U23 60 minutes
Sunday
8:00 AM Cat 4 Men 30 minutes
8:45 AM Cat 3/4 Women 30 minutes
8:45 AM Junior 10-16 30 minutes
9:30 AM Cat 2/3 Men 40 minutes
10:30 AM Masters 45+ 40 minutes
10:30 AM Masters 55+ 40 minutes
11:30 AM USGP UCI Juniors 17-18 40 minutes
12:30 PM USGP Masters 35+ (Cat 1-3) 45 minutes
1:45 PM UCI Elite Women 40 minutes
3:00 PM UCI Elite Men/U23 60 minutes
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Pre-Registration Closed
Pre-registration is now closed. Over 1,000 riders have already signed up! Riders are still able to sign up the day of the race so don't miss your chance!
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Clif Bar Kids' Cross Clinic
In keeping with its strong junior commitment, Clif Bar will present it's Friday afternoon Kids' Cross Clinic featuring the Team Clif Bar athletes at the race venue beginning at 4pm. There are four different races for juniors to participate in throughout the weekend including a kid's only race on Saturday at 1:15 PM. One day licenses are available for the day of the race. Whether you or your child is just starting out or an experienced racer, it's a great opportunity to learn a few things before race day.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Registration Still Open!
It's not too late to register for the Mercer Cup! Over 700 riders have already signed up, and registration will remain open for the rest of the week. Various age and skill levels are available. There will be an additional $10 fee for anyone who does not pre-register so don't miss out on this great opportunity.
http://www.bikereg.com/events/register.asp?EventID=7119
http://www.bikereg.com/events/register.asp?EventID=7119
Number Presentation at Knapp's
Join us for the Pro Rider Number Presentation Ceremony and Rider Registration/ Packet Pick-Up at Knapp's Cyclery on Friday night from 6:00pm to 8:00pm. Why wait in line for your number of Saturday morning when you could pick it up on Friday night, meet your favorite pro and check out the latest gear at Knapp's? Tasty food will be served and hob-nobbing will be done.
Schedule:Open to Public / Registration Opens: 6:00 pm to 6:45pm
Pro Number Presentation Ceremony: 6:45 - 7:15 (registration closed during this period)
Registration Resumes until 8:00pm
Schedule:Open to Public / Registration Opens: 6:00 pm to 6:45pm
Pro Number Presentation Ceremony: 6:45 - 7:15 (registration closed during this period)
Registration Resumes until 8:00pm
Mercer Cup Volunteers!
We are looking for volunteers to assist us at the Mercer Cup race on November 15th and 16th! If you are not riding this year, but still want to be involved in the race, what better a way than to volunteer!? We are looking for parking volunteers and Course Marshals! Volunteers are needed on both days, shift one being 730-1230 and shift 2 being 12-4. This is your chance to be on the inside of an exciting, competitive USGP race! Any interested parties please send us a message here or email us at uspg@me.com!
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Knapp's Cyclery Hosts Cyclocross Clinic
The USGP Mercer Cup presented by Knapp’s Cyclery hosted a cyclocross clinic at the campus of The Collage of New Jersey on Sunday, October 26th on the Green Lane fields. The clinic began at 1 PM and was free to all who were interested.
The clinic focused on basic cyclocross techniques including mounting, dismounting, shouldering and carrying of the bike, navigating obstacles and basic race strategy.
USGP Series Event Director Joan Hanscom said, “ After last year’s inaugural USGP Mercer Cup we heard from a lot of folks who had come out to watch the race who expressed interest in racing but didn’t really know how to get started. This year we wanted to offer them a chance to come out a few weeks before the race, get a little muddy and learn some basic skills so they’d feel comfortable joining us when the USGP returns this November.”
People of all ages showed up to learn and practice cycling with Knapp's owner Pete Garnich and president of the New Jersey Bicycling Association Tom Mains. Below are pictures from the event.
Registration Now Open for All Events
The series that stoked the exponential growth of cyclocross in the United States – the 2008 US Gran Prix of Cyclocross presented by Crank Brothers -- returns this fall for a fifth year of racing excitement. Registration is now The Mercer Cup presented by Knapp’s Cyclery in Mercer Co., NJ.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have such strong partner relationships in place for the 2008 Series – all of whom who have seen the tremendous value in partnering with the USGP,” said Bruce Fina, Executive Director, US Gran Prix of Cyclocross. “Returning to the same World Class venues in 2008 has created great event equity – cyclocross will not be a mystery in our newer markets this year. Combined with the strong support of our sponsors and a start-list of top elite athletes we are expecting that the USGP will maintain its distinction as the premier cyclocross series on this side of the Atlantic,” added Fina.
The 2008 USGP once again sees Crankbrothers’ returning as the Series Presenting Sponsor. Crankbrothers’ has supported the USGP since its inception five years ago.New to the USGP this year, Bob’s Red Mill Natural Foods has signed on as the Official Whole Grain Sponsor of the USGP. SRAM returns to the USGP as the Official Neutral Support Provider and Sponsor of the SRAM Most Aggressive Rider competition. The Most Aggressive Rider competition – a race within a race - will be named at each event in the Elite Men and Elite Women races based upon the vote of a panel of experts from SRAM and the USGP. The judges will select the winner of the contest based on such possible criteria as which rider overcomes adversity to be a factor in the race, exhibits tenacity and sportsmanship, animates the race, stages a comeback or generally makes the race a better competition.
Also returning in 2008 is Clif Bar, presenting the Clif Bar Kid’s ‘Cross Clinics at each venue. The clinics are free for kids aged 10-16 and pre-registration is available online at BikeReg.com. Held the Friday prior to each weekend series, the Clif Bar Kid’s clinics will feature an all-star line up with the Clif Bar Cyclocross Development Team; Danny Summerhill, 2007 UCI Cyclocross World Championship silver medalist; Luna Chix Georgia Gould and Katerina Nash.
THULE, the Official Roof Rack Sponsor of the USGP, returns with it’s popular Working Class Hero competition – an award given each weekend to the best overall placed amateur Category 2 male rider and the best overall Category 4 female rider. THULE’s Eric Wallace says, “What’s exciting for us at THULE is that through the USGP we can award the regular athlete – the men and women who work a full time job, balance the demands of everyday life and still find the time to get out and race on the weekends for the sheer love of the sport and love of competition.”
VeloNews returns as Official Media Partner of the USGP and will once again publishing the comprehensive US Gran Prix Series Guide in Issue 19 hitting newsstands on October 1.
Registration on BikeReg.com is open now for all categories. Pre-registration is mandatory for Elite Men / U23 race and the Elite Women.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have such strong partner relationships in place for the 2008 Series – all of whom who have seen the tremendous value in partnering with the USGP,” said Bruce Fina, Executive Director, US Gran Prix of Cyclocross. “Returning to the same World Class venues in 2008 has created great event equity – cyclocross will not be a mystery in our newer markets this year. Combined with the strong support of our sponsors and a start-list of top elite athletes we are expecting that the USGP will maintain its distinction as the premier cyclocross series on this side of the Atlantic,” added Fina.
The 2008 USGP once again sees Crankbrothers’ returning as the Series Presenting Sponsor. Crankbrothers’ has supported the USGP since its inception five years ago.New to the USGP this year, Bob’s Red Mill Natural Foods has signed on as the Official Whole Grain Sponsor of the USGP. SRAM returns to the USGP as the Official Neutral Support Provider and Sponsor of the SRAM Most Aggressive Rider competition. The Most Aggressive Rider competition – a race within a race - will be named at each event in the Elite Men and Elite Women races based upon the vote of a panel of experts from SRAM and the USGP. The judges will select the winner of the contest based on such possible criteria as which rider overcomes adversity to be a factor in the race, exhibits tenacity and sportsmanship, animates the race, stages a comeback or generally makes the race a better competition.
Also returning in 2008 is Clif Bar, presenting the Clif Bar Kid’s ‘Cross Clinics at each venue. The clinics are free for kids aged 10-16 and pre-registration is available online at BikeReg.com. Held the Friday prior to each weekend series, the Clif Bar Kid’s clinics will feature an all-star line up with the Clif Bar Cyclocross Development Team; Danny Summerhill, 2007 UCI Cyclocross World Championship silver medalist; Luna Chix Georgia Gould and Katerina Nash.
THULE, the Official Roof Rack Sponsor of the USGP, returns with it’s popular Working Class Hero competition – an award given each weekend to the best overall placed amateur Category 2 male rider and the best overall Category 4 female rider. THULE’s Eric Wallace says, “What’s exciting for us at THULE is that through the USGP we can award the regular athlete – the men and women who work a full time job, balance the demands of everyday life and still find the time to get out and race on the weekends for the sheer love of the sport and love of competition.”
VeloNews returns as Official Media Partner of the USGP and will once again publishing the comprehensive US Gran Prix Series Guide in Issue 19 hitting newsstands on October 1.
Registration on BikeReg.com is open now for all categories. Pre-registration is mandatory for Elite Men / U23 race and the Elite Women.
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