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Yeah, TCR rules are pretty good, you can visit people at checkpoints but not in between.
I like dot watchers who come out and support racers.
I will admit, in TCR last year, I went through my parents town in the south of france, as did 95% of the race. They'd been out supporting loads of racers who came though. I did see them and say hello, mainly to give them back the hotel key I'd cycled off with from Geraardsbergen, the hotel manager was NOT happy. I wasn't bothered by a conflict of interest here, as I was 2 days behind the leaders. And it was pure coincidence the race went through their town, who were really keen about it when my parents put out the word.
But I do find some dot watchers a bit over keen. This guy in macedonia was holding up a carrier bag as I came done a hill at 35mph trying to get me to take it! I know some guy did take his bag of food, as they said so, which is OK. But I wouldn't. Plus at other points people have almost demanded I stop for a photo.
I'm all for dot watchers coming out and supporting, but a bit like in Pro races, don't get to close and leave the racers to be.
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skinny
Yep, and it's down to how much of a purist you are. I like the Tour Divide rule about no spectators that you know as the moral boost you could gain as a local over someone who's flown in from Europe is a factor. I remember coming in to Steamboat Springs with Mike Schlitmann who lives there, and he had to stay in a motel, and not see his wife while he was there. Some local riders rode with him for a few miles, but beyond that he self regulated and made sure that he didn't get any extra benefits over other racers beyond his local knowledge of where to eat.
The temptation to pop home for a shower and sleep in your own bed must be huge!