Prime the "Prime" (preem)
You Can Shape the Race with a Contribution
Did you know that spectators can affect the outcome of a bike race? Unlike other pro sports, most cycling athletes depend on prize money to make a living. So tossing in a big $$ reward for a lap in the race may pit team members against each other or change how a rider approaches the entire event.
Imagine a rider pacing himself or herself for a big finish, then tempted by the Crowd Prime to push harder to finish first on a single lap...with more laps left to the real finale. Announcers ramp up the energy for the cyclists and the crowd for these exciting sprints.
Here's How It Works: Definitions
- PRIME: The prize is called a "PRIME" and pronounced like the French would say it say it: "PREEM". It's a special award given to the leader on selected laps during a criterium, or to the first rider to reach a certain landmark in a bicycle race. Used to heighten the action.
- LAP PRIME: Sponsors and individuals bring cash to the announcer stand any time throughout the day to inspire riders in a given race. (If you are a business or organization, see Be a Sponsor for more info.)
- CROWD PRIME: One special, big prize is collected from the full crowd with any cash they can spare. It's called the "CROWD PRIME" and some events raise more than $7,000 on the day of the race.
How You Can Prime the "Prime"
- Watch for volunteers with buckets calling for cash donations to the Crowd Prime.
- Or come by the Harris Bank booth to add to the kitty.
Special prizes are available for big cash donations. You could win a limited edition Prime t-shirt and more!
Thanks and Good Luck!
Thank you for supporting the largest free-to-the-public sporting event on the North Shore.
