I don't think that there's any question that this arrangement is unfair to all non-CTS,
USAC-licensed coaches (who represent maybe 2-3% of all USAC members, and pay perhaps 5% of all
license fees?). If the point of the program is to promote coaching (for the benefit of either riders
or coaches), it's too bad that it wasn't handled this way (an idea suggested to me by somebody else,
but one that I think is a very good one): provide all licensed riders with a certificate redeemable
for 1 month (or whatever) of free coaching by *any* participating USAC-licensed coach. If the issue
is one of perceived coaching quality, you could limit the program to, e.g., only those who hold
elite coaching licenses. Similarly, there would be no requirement that a coach would have to
participate - just the opportunity to do so. (Of course, such a program wouldn't generate the income
for USAC that the deal with CTS probably does, but I'd hate to think that USAC basically sold out
part of their constiuency in pursuit of the almighty dollar.)
As it stands, I'm not sure what would motivate somebody to renew their coaching license with an
organization that is basically steering customers away from them and to somebody else...
Andy Coggan
"Soidirectr" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
"]news:[email hidden]...
Quoted message said:Carmichael Training Partners With USA Cycling
MAY 15, 2003 -- COLORADO SPRINGS, C0 (BRAIN)--USA Cycling members can get
free
Quoted message said:and reduced-cost training assistance from Carmichael Training Systems
under an
Quoted message said:agreement USAC and the coaching group just signed.
As a start, all new and renewing USA Cycling members will get one month of
free
Quoted message said:Carmichael Training Systems (CTS) coaching via a USAC-licensed coach, a
free
Quoted message said:copy of the CTS Train Right video, and a 25 percent savings on continued coaching, said Sean
Petty, vice president of marketing for the cycling association.
"There are several strong components of the partnership, ranging from membership programs,
coaching seminars, event participation, camps and scholarships. The key benefit is designed to
help USA Cycling members
improve
Quoted message said:their performance with the assistance of CTS coaches," Petty said.
"Whether a rider's goal is to win their category, finish ahead of their
friends
Quoted message said:or just have more fun cycling, this is an opportunity for all USA Cycling annual members,
regardless of skill level, to experience the value of a structured plan and coaching," he added.
USAC will recognize CTS as an official sponsor and the official training partner of USA Cycling.
For more information visit www.usacycling.org or www.trainright.com.
