Csanyi's column belittles efforts of race riders, fans

When I first read the title of Matt Csanyi's article ("Little 500: The Stupidest IU Tradition," IDS, March 28), I was offended. After reading the article, I am still offended. Although Csanyi does make some valid points, calling Little 500 "the stupidest IU tradition" is going too far. \nI have never ridden in Little 500, but I have gone to support riders/friends in the race. At a University where any school spirit is difficult to find, why must people continuously shoot down an event that brings people closer together and is fun? Yes, people sometimes drink during Little 500, but who's to say Csanyi has never had fun while drinking alcohol? It can get monotonous watching the riders race in circles, but the physical endurance of all of the teams and especially the top teams is still impressive to watch. I have a lot of respect for the riders of Little 500 because of the time and effort they put into their training, and Csanyi's article belittles their efforts. On their behalf, I am offended, even if they aren't. \nLittle 500 is fun and it assures me that this school is not entirely devoid of spirit. So although the riders and onlookers aren't doing something as cool as being chased by a bunch of bulls in Spain, my definition of a stupid tradition, why can't Csanyi just let it be?