I arrived at Laguna Seca this morning to work the Sea Otter event. It is such a huge event - last year 12,000 registered riders and over 60,000 spectators. The Sea Otter Village is like a small town, springing up for four days, and disappearing just as quickly. It reminds me of a stage in the Tour, such an incredible amount of superhuman work by staff and crew. I doubt that many folks who come here know the humungous amount of work that is involved.

My role here, as in many of the US Pro races, is to coordinate and supervise the volunteer course marshals. Volunteers are the backbone of cycling in the US - we simply could not do the races without folks who are willing to come out and stand for long hours to keep the racers safe. What we can give - lunch and a tee shirt - simply does not convey our appreciation to these great cycling fans. And the riders know and appreciate you folks who volunteer. I have heard racers thank volunteers at the Start and Finish lines. So come on out and volunteer for cycling races in your area! You get the best seats in the house, and are we ever glad to see you.