Dot Watchers are those who watch the progress of a racer represented by a dot on a map. Watch at the above links. Be sure to click on the ? mark in the upper left corner of the MAProgress race page. That will give you tips on the many ways to view the race and it's data. See the links to maps on the NSBR page.
While the genesis of the NSBR was solo racing… we will all be in for a treat with the 2022 format. Two colors of dots to watch. Orange is the original Solo. Black the new Not Solo. Black dots can work together (see the Behavior page for details). The potential story lines are too many to even begin but all set the scene for thrilling racing and gripping dot watching. Imagine pelotons in a field of solo breakaways.
NSBR Dot Watchers are the racers greatest ally. Your cheer begets safety for the racers and spreads the word to friends, strangers, and businesses that looking out for all road cyclists is happening and cool. Know that dot watching in private has been known to lead to dot watching in public. This is to be celebrated! There are many places to park in parking lots and cheer racers along trails. But if you find yourself outside on a road please wear a high visibility reflective top for safety.
The NSBR has a Facebook page with photos, cheers and racer reports. www.facebook.com/groups/1950630075178051 Some racers have social media accounts linked to their MAProgress profile.
NSBR Dot Watchers are self-supported endurance cycling's best Dot Watchers! Why? Because NSBR Dot Watchers respect the race and the racers by NOT offering support or handouts. They cheer, advocate our efforts, and support all road cyclists by giving them attention and space. They read the entire NSBR website. Whether by phone or in person, they know that racers can not accept support such as intelligence, sustenance, supplies, or shelter. Dot watchers can not give racers information such as other racers position/ speed/ past activity, resupply hours of operation or weather conditions/ forecasts. This is a serious self-supported race...racers must fuel, maintain, navigate, shelter, and move themselves. Any support should only be given in an emergency situation declared by the racer.
Message, call or show up with motivation, encouragement and cheers. Chalk up the route, wave a sign, ring that bell because cheers from friends and strangers alike brighten and inspire any racers mood in a BIG BIG way. In a sport where the athletes expect no award...the reward is hearing cheers and inspiring others. Thank you for inspiring the racers! We love your cheers! Sorry that we must keep moving.