If it isn't broken, don't fix it, is the mantra La Ruta de los Conquistadores organisers are following for the 2009 running of the Costa Rican stage race.
The 17th edition of the race, taking place on 11-14 November, will be held over four days - the organisers were toying with the notion of five days, but they've clearly decided it's tough enough already.
“We have analysed the current situation and our options, so we decided to stay on the same configuration for one more year”, says Race Director Diego Viquez. “2009 will represent the opportunity of making the proper arrangements, the best race designing and to have the necessary time for the staff and potential participants to prepare themselves for the big changes that will be introduced for next year's La Ruta.”
A fifth day was to be added to the race as well as further developments to the course, but the decision has been made to postpone such changes to 2010 giving the organisers time to perfect the proposed plans.
Instead, the organisers will improved services to the riders. “We will improve the lodging and the services by using better hotels at the Pacific and San José,” says PR Director Luis Rueda. “Besides, the mechanic care is granted for all the bikes at no additional cost. Catering at the hotels and finish venues, as well as the support at the aid station, that has been traditionally two of our highest rated services, will be even better this time.”
The La Ruta de los Conquistadores website, www.adventurerace.com, is about to be re-launched over the next days, including more details about the course and the registration packages. Online registration is currently enabled.
