SUMO Class

"Sumo Class" predated the current racing category known as "Clydesdale" here in the Golden State. Older race series' like the California Cup (put on by Guido at Lo-Fat Cycles in Temecula) in the early 90's and the old Amateur Cup Series all called it like it was. They also had better rules regarding large-man racing. Unlike today's 200lb rider limit, which on a 6'3" man is NOTHING, the old SUMO class had a 300lb limit, and a 30lb minimum bike weight. When I see the super-fit "Clydesdales" of today, it chaps my ass because I know that the REAL Clydesdales were pushed out by the lighter weight restriction. The big guys today could easily compete at the Sport or even Expert level in standard classifications. Hell, I qualify for Clydesdale today, and have absolutely NO BUSINESS being there....wouldn't even consider it, knowing how cool the real deal guys used to be. Beer guts swayin', there wasn't a jersey around that could have covered those hairy fat mo' fo's. BUT, they showed up every weekend to throw down and try and do something to counter the effect of a diet rich in fried animal carcass and processed cheese spread. Kudos the the old SUMO's, and a pox on the very fit and lean poacher-posers in today's Clydesdale races.

Rock on my flabby friends....rock on.