Let's start by throwing out some ideas on the basics:
We talked about making this a biannual event, so ideally races should be scheduled six months apart. The first race was in late February 2009, therefore the next one would be ideally scheduled in early October 2009, which is not an exact six-month gap, but would allow us to avoid the worst of the summer heat and finalize preparations right after Ramadan.
What do you guys think?
I think it makes sense! But I'd just highlight that there should be ample time between end of Ramadan & start of racing date for everyone to train especially with everybody being heavy & sedentary from Ramadan
Off topic, why don't we get notifications from the forum if a posting has been made? I bumped into this by sheer coincidence. Perhaps an automatic notification might increase traffic on the forums?
Good point Noura. We're still debating the optimal date since we also need to allow for a 5-6 month gap between the two races (if we are to organize it bi-annually).
For the forum email notifications, you may set this in the user control panel but only for the threads you post in (just click on options and then check "Automatically subscribe to threads you post in"). I agree on the need for more participation here. I think that most people are so used to posting on the Facebook group pages that they usually can't be bothered to post elsewhere. Attention span is a rare commodity
I see your point. What about a monthly reminder through Facebook about the forum? Otherwise, will the forum be sustained?
A regular reminder would be a good idea.
The forums are relatively new, and considering the relative obscurity of mountain biking as a sport in Egypt, it might be a while until there is in sort of regular activity here.
A page will be up for the next race soon. Once we have a volunteer team, I'll create threads for different activities/ideas here.
I'm willing to help with the organization of the upcoming event. I'm good with mapping, timing, GPS, track selection/marking and so on. I've organized a couple of small rally events in the western desert. Let me know if you need any help.
I don't want to be rude and ask for a change of time just to suite my calendar but if the race is held after the 11th of October it would be great since I'll be busy with the Pharaons Rally which will end on the 10th of October.
Please count me in for the volunteer team. I sent my contact info through the form on the website.