I agree with you on the subject of a lightning protocol, Bill, and agree with the local Fayetteville EMS decision. When an electrical storm is as close as stated, the next strike can indeed be right on you and lightning often travels miles front the point of origin before hitting the ground, or a person. Not worth the risk.
I'm surprised that USA Cycling doesn't have a policy for lightning. I remember in 2018(?) at nationals in Snowshoe the afternoon schedule was impacted on more than one occasion because of lightning. I don't recall it affecting XC events too much, just downhill and it may have only been practices and not races. But it was pretty typical every afternoon the storm would roll in about the same time and they would close down the mountain. Seems this would not be that unusual for downhill venues.
I can’t speak for the UCI but the “Bulletin” reader policy states the Bill’s rabbit holes are both permitted and encouraged.
I agree with you on the subject of a lightning protocol, Bill, and agree with the local Fayetteville EMS decision. When an electrical storm is as close as stated, the next strike can indeed be right on you and lightning often travels miles front the point of origin before hitting the ground, or a person. Not worth the risk.
I'm surprised that USA Cycling doesn't have a policy for lightning. I remember in 2018(?) at nationals in Snowshoe the afternoon schedule was impacted on more than one occasion because of lightning. I don't recall it affecting XC events too much, just downhill and it may have only been practices and not races. But it was pretty typical every afternoon the storm would roll in about the same time and they would close down the mountain. Seems this would not be that unusual for downhill venues.
And great photos, Bill!