I think you should have to submit your runs to judges prior to the beginning of the contest. They should then calculate a starting point value based on your skills, and put you in a class. This way if you hit everything you know where you should place and what kind of things you need to learn to be competitive. Quite like gymnastics does. Thats always been the problem with flat comps...its so vague.
This guy gets away with it because ultimately a veterans class is unnecessary. Folks should ride in the class appropriate to their skill level, regardless of age. The case against this dude would be way more legit if he showed up in beginner, intermediate, or a special "old school" class, but since his age probably qualifies for vet, no one can argue with him for entering it (and age seems to be the only qualification).
If you still want to compete but "maybe don't fit novice or expert", why wouldn't you just enter Intermediate?
Quote from: Ultraman Zoffy on March 04, 2013, 05:18:16 PMIf you still want to compete but "maybe don't fit novice or expert", why wouldn't you just enter Intermediate? There is no intermediate class.
Looking at the whole picture, it's easy to say "he doesn't belong", but rules are rules and he fits every rule for "VET" That said, earning the respect of my fellow riders is much more important to me than a prize or trophy. It's obvious here, some riders don't respect him for entering a lower class than his skill level and that's something he'll have to deal with (not us). My 1st contest in almost 20 yrs was Jomopro 2012. I prepared well from what I was told to do by my fellow local riders who have entered before, however when we got there, the judges told us they want difficulty VS. consistancy. That blew my runs! I could have easily backed out after learning that but I stayed and unfortunately took last place. I was ok though because I knew I earned some respect for at least giving it my best, instead of backing out.Be honest with yourself, and you will have no regrets. I doubt I'll ever make top 3, however riding against guys like Steve in my class will only make me hungrier.RIDE ON!
I wonder how Kevin Jones would do in the "vet" class? Vet = veteran right?