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The Hub
(the owner's blog)
What's in a name?
Why don’t professional cyclists have their
names on their jerseys like other sports? In other sports the
players not only have their names but also a large identification
number. Think Michael Jordan's number 23. And, it’s the same number
for every game. In addition to the name and number, many athletes
are easily recognized by the position they play. A quarterback, a
goalie or a pitcher are quickly recognized by their position on the
field. All this makes for a better spectator experience.
Cycling is not a spectator friendly sport. A
peloton riding at 25 mph hidden by helmets and sunglasses makes it
impossible to spot your favorite riders. Making it even more
difficult is having 100+ cyclists packed together in a group; there
are no set positions in cycling. Only on the steepest climbs at the
end of a race are the riders spread out enough and going slow enough
to recognize individuals. Television coverage helps but it’s still
not easy. Announcers Phil Liggett and Paul Sherwin do an admirable
job commentating races but even they struggle with getting the
riders right.
Putting riders’ names on their jerseys would
add excitement and improve the overall enjoyment of watching our
favorite sport and athletes.
To comment on 'The Hub' email:
owner@bicyclegifthub.com
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