Hey, everyone. Just wanted to remind everyone that tomorrow our Little 500 Preview Guide will be coming out. In it, there will be features on particular teams and riders to watch for, as well as commentary and IDS predictions on who will win the race. Enough of that...now on to more "Burning Questions" for our riders:
Kenny Parks- Team Major Taylor
Q: What can we expect from your team this year?
A: I can't really say we know what we are doing (in terms of strategy) but hopefully we will let some of the other teams do the work and be there at the end. We just want to stay with the pack and stay out of accidents.
Q: What is the difference between this year and last year for your team?
A: I think our team is stronger this year than last year. Ali won't have to do as many laps as last year because we are more balanced than before.
Q: What are your team expectations?
A: We just want to stay out of accidents and hopefully win.
Ryan Weisberger- FIJI
Q: What are you trying to finalize before race day?
A: We're taking a lot of time working on exchanges. We're kind of finishing off a little taper here, so we'll be feeling the pace of the pack and be hoping to be there on the last lap of race day.
Q: Do you come in with a set strategy for race day?
A: We have a way we'd like it to work out. We have some math done out with how many laps we think each rider will do. Other than that, you sometimes just have to switch your strategy as the race goes.
Q: How does this year's team compare with last year's?A: This year we have two vets and two rookies like last year, so I'm expecting a similar thing. As long as we can stay with everybody until the end I think we have a better chance of pulling out a victory this year. That's our goal is to have a shot at that sprint out.
Elizabeth Adamo- Pi Beta Phi
Q: What does your team need to do to be successful?
A: I think a lot of it is mental. You have to have a good attitude and go out there and chase down those packs.
Q: How important do you feel pit location is for the race?
A: I think it matters a lot. For us, it is good for team camaraderie because we are in front of bigger stands. Also, we have a longer line for burn-outs which is also very good.
Q: Does it hurt your team having so many first-year riders?
A: With three rookies on this team, Pi Beta Phi cycling will only be building up from now. Things are looking good.
