On any given Wednesday evening in the spring you can find Placid Planet Bicycles co-owner Kenny Boetteger and 35-40 lycra clad road warriors lining up at the end of River Rd. in Lake PLacid for their chance to race against the clock. The series lasts for six weeks with an emphasis on fun, accessability, and improvement.

Kenny, tabulating the times
Kenny, tabulating the times

The weekly time trial series is open to anyone with any type of bicycle (and a helmet) for free. The 8-mile mostly flat course takes riders from the "Ski Jump" side of River Rd. to the end, and back. Ridiculously fast times can get as low as sixteen minutes, but the time recorded is only secondary to the camaraderie and joy offered by this fantastic weekly event.

Riders are released one-by-one at one-minute intervals for their chance against the clock. Points are awarded each week to determine an overall series winner for the season. However, riders do not have to log top times to earn points. Participants earn a point simply by showing up, another point for beating their own time from the week before, and the rider with the best time of the evening earns an additional point. The casual atmosphere that surrounds the weekly time trials on River Rd. is by far the most appealing part of the event. Rather than snarling at eachother riders can be found chatting, warming up together, and talking about what they're going to have for dinner at one of Placid's restaurants after they cross the finish line.

The riders lining up
The riders lining up

In my first experience racing in the Placid Planet Time Trial years ago I can recall being nervous at the starting line.  I just didn't know what to expect.  I powered my pedals as fast as they could go, and I was breathing hard as I made way around the turnaround marker.  I remember being somewhat suprised as other riders were cheering for me as we crossed paths going different directions on River Road.  It was clear to me at that moment this event is about participation not domination.  The Placid Planet Time Trial Series is a great resource for our community that supports a truly welcoming atmosphere.  If you're in town on a Wednesday evening head down to River Rd. and give it a try.   

The series finishes up on Wednesday June 5th so get out there while you still can!!