Run in with the Rowdies

Clearing my e-mail and found an e-mail I wrote to the Club President last year complaining about the behaviour of some riders from New York's Century Road Club. In short I accidently became entangled with some racers on one of their regular races in Central Park and experienced aggressive over- and under-taking, threats and abuse. For a club that "provides coaching and friendly competition for all ages" nearly a year on I'm surprised not to receive a response

Sir

I would like to bring to your attention the behavior of some of your riders this morning which I feel detracts from the good image of your club.

I was riding in the Park this morning at the same time as your race - I passed the start/finish just as the bell was rung for the final lap. I ride at a reasonable pace and at the left side of the road, just to the edge of the recreation lane as directed by your marshals. There was a stroller in the road which I had to move to my right to avoid and at this point the race passed me. Rather than make a sudden movement at this point I felt it was safer to maintain my position, about 6 feet outside the recreation lane so that the racers would not be unduly delayed by my presence.

The lead rider overtook me very aggressively cutting so close that his rear wheel was directly under my handlebar. As the rest of the group passed abuse and threats were shouted at me.

I ride regularly in Central park and have been passed your race on many occasions without incident so I hope that this was a one off occurrence but I feel that it may be appropriate to remind your racers to leave a safe space when passing non-racers even if they believe them to be on the racing line. Whilst his behaviour is acceptable within a racing group he did not know my experience, had I swerved suddenly there could have been a serious crash. The behaviour of the other riders needs no further comment.

Regards