August 2004 Archive
8-2-2004 Stuff on Ebay I just put a bunch of cycling stuff on ebay. My car needs to be repaired, and I'm new-bicycle broke. Search for the seller sttarlite.
Frady Branch Work Party
From SORBA: "There will be a workday at the Frady Branch trail system on August 7 at 9:00 AM. Meet at the trailhead
parking area on Hwy 184. If you need directions, contact me at kaowen@alltel.net. If you have a
chainsaw certification and can bring your saw and safety equipment, please do. There are several trees
down. Also we will be clearing brush where it is overgrowing the trail in some sunny areas, so bring
your weedeater, etc. Depending on number of people
available, we may also do some work cleaning out grade dips and other "dirt moving".'
More NARC News From the North Atlanta Riding Club: "NARC has several members gearing up for Nationals and World Championships. Steve Hill, former National Champion, will be competing on the track in the Nationals and then will go on to represent the USA in the Masters Track (World) Championships. Kyle, Sean and Sara Cochran will be headed out to Park City Utah to compete in the Junior Road Nationals. NARC will have several members going for jerseys in the State Criterium Championships. Good luck to all."
Kerry
and Lance Democrat Presidential Nominee John Kerry was spotted wearing
a Livestrong band during the Democratic National Convention. In
Republican biking news, President George Bush crashed
again last week while riding his mountain bike at his Texas Ranch. It is
unknown if either presidential candidate commute by bicycle to their inauguration
in January if they win.
SE Cycling Featured in Catalyst Magazine
Southeasterncycling.com is one of the websites featured in this month's Catalyst
Magazine. Catalyst is an Atlanta based business magazine. You can read
the article here. (Adobe Acrobat Reader needed).
New Race Trail in Gainesville From the SORBA forum:
"What type of trail do we want? Do we want a true replacement (roller coaster, fun, fast...)? Where do we want it? How is this going to be accomplished? Will improvements to Chicopee allow it to be used as a race venue? Or, should we build a second trail system somewhere else (so we will still have trail if Chicopee is taken as the Ag Center was). Who owns the Chicopee Land? What is the possibility that we would ever lose access to Chicopee? Who controls the money the Gainesville Chapter received as compensation for the Ag Center? Were any rules attached to the compensation defining how or where the money could be spent?
Get involved now. I believe most of these questions (and more) will be answered next Thursday. See meeting notice below, originally posted on ClubMTB.com
Date: Thursday, August 05, 2004
Time: 6:00:00 PM
Location: Elachee Nature Center
Notes: Meeting time and place has been moved to Thursday Aug 5 at 6 pm at Elachee Nature Center. We will discuss the future plans for Chicopee Woods and how we hope to use the compensation for the Ag Center to make Chicopee Woods a great(er) mountain bike destination. We need your input! We need to know what the biking community wants!"
The Off Road Assault on Mt. Mitchell These guys are crazy, and the results are in! 55 miles off road and more than 10,000 feet of climbing!
TdG News I'm not sure what it means, but here is some Tour De Georgia news.
I Forgot One I forgot one pet peeve about the Buckhead Bellyache: Riding in the aerobars in the middle of the group!
Firewater 50 Rumor has it the Firewater 50 will be September 11.
How was Covington? Well, how was Covington? I had other plans for the day, namely a 3 hour mountain bike ride. Email me with reports. Why do I hear silence other than crickets chirping?
8-3-2004 Stuff on Ebay I just put a bunch of cycling stuff on ebay. My car needs to be repaired, and I'm new-bicycle broke. Search for the seller sttarlite.
French Broad Erik Koep (L5 Flyers) has a great race report from the French Broad Classic on the L5 Flyers webpage.
What do you want to see? What do you want to see on Southeastern Cycling? Is there something you've been wanting to know or a topic relevant to cycling in the Southeast that you would like to see? Email us your ideas. (SE Cycling is not a "how to" website....that's what Bicycling.com is for).
Team Rumors Ah, the rumors about various cycling teams have started for next year. It's pretty early! I've heard some good stuff. Of course, I'm not going to publish a thing. (really, I'm not!)
8-4-2004 Tour D'Toona Tim Henry and his Nalley-AG Edwards teammates went to the International (formerly the Tour D'Toona) in Pennsylvania last week. They battled rain, Blue Knob, and crashes. -Read Tim's Report.
Need Some Cycling Music? The Commitaphobics are one of the best cover bands in Atlanta. Doug, the lead man and founder, is a triathlete and cyclist. Check them out this Saturday at Padriacs in Vinings.
Jan Ullrich (TMobile) in full flight during the Alpe D'Huez TT in the Tour De France. Photo by Lee Boatright.
8-5-2004 Covington Report Michael McGee of the L5 Flyers shares his Covington Race, errr, ride report. Mishaps, heat, and fun were on order for the day.
DON'T FORGET Stuff on Ebay I just put a bunch of cycling stuff on ebay. My car needs to be repaired, and I'm new-bicycle broke. Search for the seller sttarlite.
Indoor Summer Training From Sam Caine (Cycleworks Women's Team) "Why do all that work to increase your VO2 max, then go and destroy it by sucking down liters of pollution? Join the Buckhead Black Lung Ride Every smog day Mon-Thurs, 6:30pm – 8pm, Buckhead Athletic Club, (bottom floor of the Atlanta Financial Center), 3353 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326, Phone: (404) 364-2222, Towels and Schwinn spin bikes provided, but you are welcome to bring your bike and trainer., 2 options: $5 per visit – or $25 per month, Sign up at this address to receive email smog alerts: http://cleanaircampaign.com/home.asp Alerts are released by 3pm the day before a smog day. If it’s a smog day – there will be a Black Lung Ride. These are not formally led, especially if you bring your own trainer and bike. But there will be some general coaching for intervals, spin-ups, etc. Anyone is welcome to bring a workout, too."
No Vuelta on OLN OLN is planning on broadcasting a one hour special on the Vuelta A Espana after the three week tour is over. That's right: no daily coverage, no live coverage, nothing except for an hour. Sign the petition here petitiononline.com
8-6-2004 Top of Georgia Bike Event? Does anyone know anything more about this: "Top of Georgia" Bike Event, September 18, A bike event that will end at Brasstown Bald, the "Top of Georgia" at 4784 feet." Email me.
Richest US Criterium Charlotte, North Carolina will host the Bank of America Invitational Criterium on Saturday, August 7th. With $125,000 in prize
money over 50 places, organizers say it will be the richest criterium in the world. Promoter Thad Fischer has worked to bring
pro cycling back to Charlotte after working as event director for the Charlotte stages of the Tour Du Pont from 1994-1996.
The race will be held in downtown Charlotte on a 1.2 mile, 8 corner course. Top North American professionals expected to
start include Jonas Carney, Marty Nothstein, Dave McCook, Gord Fraser and Ivan Dominguez. The race is designed to promote awareness and support for brain tumor research and treatment. The Brain Tumor Fund, in
care of The Foundation for the Carolinas, is hoping to raise $5 million for brain tumor research, treatment technology and
family/patient support services. Full event information can be found at www.charlottecriterium.org.
-Cyclingnews.com
Interest for North Carolina Velodrome A group of businessmen and cycling enthusiasts in North Carolina hopes to build a $1.5 million multi-use velodrome in the
Charlotte area. The Carolina Velodrome Association envisions a 250 metre track with a 1,000-seat grandstand, designed to
lure events to the city.
"There are only 19 existing velodromes in the country," said Michael Cowan, member of the Carolina Velodrome Association,
to News14 Charlotte. “By building one we'll automatically be a candidate for hosting international and national events."
To date the Carolina Velodrome Association is still negotiating for funding and a site for the facility, but the group has the
support of the likes of Humpy Wheeler, president of Lowe's Motor Speedway, which this weekend will host the Bank of
America Invitational Criterium. -Cyclingnews.com
Toona Photo Jed Schneider, John Murphy, and Tim Henry made the photos of Toona at the Daily Peloton.
8-9-2004 More on the NC Velodrome Lowe’s Motor Speedway,
Wednesday, August 4, 2004,Local group wants to build Velodrome in Charlotte area,
by Dr. Michael Cowan
CONCORD, N.C. -- A group of local businessmen and cycling enthusiasts are working to build a $1.5-million, multi-use velodrome in the Metrolina area.
Organizers of the Carolina Velodrome Association unveiled the concept today at
Lowe's Motor Speedway during a press conference to kick off the Bank of America
Criterium, the largest cycling event in the Carolinas.
The concept includes a world-class facility that features a 250-meter track,
banked 44 degrees. A permanent 1,000-seat grandstand, with additional areas for
another 3,000 temporary seats, is part of the initial phase of the project. The
venue could host international cycling races plus prestigious U.S.-sanctioned
events such as the Olympic Trials, Pan Am Games and National Championships.
"We are offering the Metrolina area a very unique and exciting opportunity,"
said Dr. Michael Cowan, one of the founders of the Carolina Velodrome Association. "With the nearest comparable track located in
southern Florida, the proposed velodrome will be the premier facility in the Southeast. This facility
will attract riders from around the globe. Spectators will be treated to a fast-paced sport similar to NASCAR racing. Going fast and turning left is a
concept we understand."
In addition to major cycling events, the facility could be used year-round for
public riding, racing, training and rider development. H.A. "Humpy" Wheeler, president of Lowe's Motor Speedway and a very active
cycling enthusiast, says the new cycling complex will be a major asset for the
region. "This would really help the Charlotte area continue on its path of attracting
events which help the local economy," said Wheeler. "Last weekend's Bassmaster
Classic and the Bank of America Invitational Criterium this weekend energize the
area economy during the slowest tourist week of the year.
"Another positive is the potential outreach to kids from lower income families,"
said Wheeler. "These kids can participate in a program that will offer clinics
and low-cost rental track bicycles. Non-cycling use includes in-line skating, BMX, skateboarding, radio-controlled
car races, concerts and other outdoor entertainment events. Plans also include provisions for bicycle retail and service on site.
The group, which is organized as a 501c3 corporation, is currently in
negotiations for an undisclosed site in the region. The project, which would
take 12-18 months to build, would involve both public and private investment.
Charlotte Crit The Charlotte Invitation Criterium with $125,000 in prize money was Saturday in Charlotte. It was a NRC event. Ivan Dominguez (Cola Vita Bolla) won the inaugural event.
8-10-2004 John Lieswyn Diary John Lieswyn has a great diary entry about the BofA Charlotte Criterium and some mountain bike riding in NC. He also put in an effort at the Asheville Mellowdrome track races.
Congratulations Steve Hill! Congratulations to NARC track racer Steve Hill. He won the bronze medal in the 35-39 Men's Master Sprint National Championships race in Colorado this weekend.
Boone Crit Cancelled? I heard that the Boone Crit and Beech Mountain Hill Climb may have been cancelled. Can anyone confirm this? Emails to the former promoter have gone unanswered.
8-11-2004 Congratulations Tony Scott Tony Scott (Tortillas La Ga...somethingorother) won the Team Pursuit Men 30+ with teammates Kenneth Williams, Curtis Tolson, and Curtis Gunn at the Masters Track National Championships this past weekend. Tony was in his stars and stripes jersey at the crit Tuesday night. Their time was 4:50.6, and the second place team was 4:54.3. Congratulations Tony!
This Weekend There is a lot going on this weekend! Don't forget about the Dog Days crit on Sunday put on by the L5 Flyers in Grant Park. Some of the proceeds will help to preserve Grant Park. The late fee has also been reduced to $5. Saturday is the Georgia State Crit Championships at Johns Creek in Alpharetta. The SERC Finals are at the Dauset Trails in Jackson, GA if you prefer your action in the dirt.
More Ebay I just put a bunch more stuff up on Ebay. Click here or search by seller sttarlite.
8-12-2004 NC News from Neal Boyd with Charlotte Sports Cycling "What a great week of events. I hear they had over 500 riders at 24 Hours of Booty and raised over $100,000. The 4th Annual Giordana Crossroads Classic had record number of participants and spectators at each of the venues. Many of the pros came to mix it with the local Cat 1 and Cat 2 cyclists. The inaugural Bank of America Invitational Criterium had an estimated $25,000 spectators and a incredible field of international cyclists. We have heard nothing but positive compliments about the event. Thanks to everyone who volunteered and/or came out to support the events during the past week. John Lieswyn writes a diary and Cycling News and had this to say about the B of A Criterium event: "PS. Charlotte and the organizers really did a primo job with this first (hopefully annual) event. It was super pro and well attended, and undoubtedly it deserves its place as one of the jewels of American racing along with Philly, San Fran, and NYC." For the full article, check out http://www.cyclingnews.com/riders/2004/diaries/john/?id=john0423 Charlotte Mountain Bike Series This weeks mountain bike race will be at Catawba Riverfront Park. We will be doing a different race course this week. Come on out and mix it up on the dirt. The trails at Catawba are in great shape. I hear a few of the local pros are going to race and some of the Just Fresh-Clif Bar boys plan to come out of mountain bike retirement this Wednesday. Results from last weeks race will be posted tonight."
Georgia State TT Rumors I've heard a rumor that the Georgia State TT Championships will be held in conjuction with the Madison Road Race at the end of the month. Supposedly, the RR course has changed several times. I'll post something as soon as I hear it.
Nimblewill Festival Women's Ride From Lisa Randall (Cannondale): "I am leading a "she-man" ride at the upcoming Nimblewill Festival and wanted to get the word out. Ride details are on the Nimblewill schedule, but the ride will be 25-30 miles at a quick training pace over mulitiple long climbs. The ride is geared towards fast sport or expert racers/riders who can ride for 3-3.5 hours. This won't be a social ride, so stopping will be minimal, except for any instructional stops along the way. Due to the length and terrain, we will limit the ride to 10 riders. If you are interested, please email me at lisa_randall@gspnet.com to sign up."
Blanket's Creek News Someone has spotted three new porta potties at Blanket's Creek. Thank you SORBA Woodstock! The old one was....errr...nasty.
Racing, not Touring Please remember that Southeastern Cycling's main focus is racing. Occasionally, I'll post something about a tour, century, charity ride, etc. I have limited time to work on the website, so I have to keep it focused on its purpose. The Southern Bicycle League has a great calendar with touring/century rides on it. They also have a comprehensive list of weekly and daily rides including those that are more beginner friendly that what SE Cycling lists.
Updated Atlanta Road Rides Page I updated the ATL Road Rides page with some new maps and a few new rides. I'm at home sick and need something to do since I can't ride my bike!
8-13-2004 Good Rumors I heard a good rumor that construction may begin soon at the Dick Lane Velodrome in East Point. They are still about $24,000 short of their goal, and donations are still being accepted.
TIAA-CREF Ad Have you seen the TIAA-CREF ads about "Heros at Home" during the Olympics pre-coverage. It features Colby Pearce, the most experienced rider and coach of the TIAA-CREF development team.
RAMBO Work
Party Date: Saturday, August 14, 2004, Time: 8:00:00 AM, Location: Central Park
Notes: Trail Construction Work Party @ Central Park, Forsyth County Saturday, August 14
From 8:00 AM - Noon Lunch will be provided, come out and support SORBA as RAMBO and Woodstock Chapters team up to break the trail building world record to build 2 miles of trail in a SINGLE DAY!!!! Plus: bring your bike if you want to test ride the completed sections. Remember to bring gloves, water, sturdy shoes (no sandles allowed), and long pants. Directions: Central Park is GA-400N to exit #17, exit left back over 400 and about .5 mile on the left, go straight past the Sheriff Station, we meet at the back corner of the parking lot near the maintenance shed. Keep checking out www.RAMBO-mtb.org for current information."
Southeastern Cycling It has been a while since I have mentioned this, but don't forget that Southeastern Cycling runs on donations. I do this website as my way of giving back to the cycling community, but it costs several hundred dollars per year to run. Want to make a donation to help keep Southeastern Cycling going, see me at the races or donate here:
Jittery Joes News American Division III team Jittery Joe's announced Thursday that it has signed Evan Elken for the remainder of the 2004 season. Elken took 8th place this year at the U.S. Olympic Trials, 3rd place at the Elite National Road Race Championships, and a stage win at the Cascade Classic. "Evan adds a bit of power to the middle of our team," said team director Micah Rice. "We already have one of the best climbers and one of the best sprinters, but we need riders like Evan to get these guys to the finish. He has proven that he is a strong rider in any situation." Jittery Joe's also inked a sponsorship deal with Kalahari, the number one brand of red tea in the United States, which will market its Kalahari FruitTrekker dried fruit bar."-Cyclingnews.com. Things that make you go Hmmmm.....From www.thebeanteam.com comes the news that some proceeds from sales of FruitTrekker will go to help fund the Bean Team, much like their coffee sales.
8-16-2004 New Trails at Chicopee Gainesville SORBA has apparently been working feverishly and have already flagged 8 new miles of trails at Chicopee. Work will begin on it this fall. Work will also be done on some other parts of the Chicopee trails to help with erosion control.
Webcor Recovers Stolen Bike From
cyclingnews.com: In a sting operation with a twist, the US-based Webcor
Team in conjunction with the Dahlonega police managed get the suspect in
custody before recovering one of their team bikes that was stolen earlier
this year.
This spring, while waiting for the awards ceremony in the small Georgian
town of Dahlonega, a spare team bike was snatched off the Webcor team car.
Three months later, while randomly surfing Ebay, one of Webcor's team
members found a Lemond bicycle for sale advertised as an official Webcor
team bike, and that looked remarkably similar (including parts) to the one
stolen in GA. Webcor immediately got to work trying to determine if a) the
bike was definitely the stolen one, and b) how to get the bike back.
Lemond provided a letter that stated Webcor was the only team provided with
frames of that colour/decal scheme. The bike was purchased c.o.d. over Ebay
by Karen Scioscia (wife of special team consultant, Frank Scioscia) with the
story that she want to purchase the bike for her husband) with the intention
of not accepting delivery. Instead the bike was to be identified at UPS with
a police officer present, positively ID'd, and then shipped back the
Dahlonega police dept. to be held as evidence while Dahlonega police worked
on tracking down the suspect.
In researching the case, the Dahlonega police investigator called the
suspect's place of work to ask if the suspect indeed worked there.
Unfortunately, the suspect was the one who picked up the phone and the
investigator quickly made an excuse and hung up. Thinking he botched the
case, the investigator apologized to Webcor management, thinking that
bringing the suspect to justice might prove challenging. Instead, the next
morning found the investigator sitting with the suspect, who had driven all
night to the Dahlonega police station, to turn himself in. Suspecting that
he was about to get in trouble, the suspect came clean and confessed
everything.
In the end, Webcor got its bike back after a creative sting operation and
some good investigating on behalf of the Dahlonega police department.
Race Results Joe Dunlop (Bicycle Outfitters) placed 5th in Expert 30-39 at the NORBA NCS in Colorado last weekend. Shey Lindner (The Bike Shop) won 1st in Expert 30-39 at the Showdown at Sugar Mt. AMBC in North Carolina. Kari Linder comments about Sugar "could there be any more climbing in a race?!?!"
Georgia Cup Info/Georgia State TT Championships From Gentry Arnette:
"FIRST: Please let us apologize for the lack of information, the un-updated
website, and the lack of response to emails and phone calls. We have been
VERY busy working for YOU!!! We have been working on the (1) rest of the
season (2) an NRC (3) and 2005!SECOND: Madison is on and details will be
posted by the end of the week. Here is what we can tell you thus far: The
JOHN DEERE CYCLING TEAM will be hosting the Georgia State Time Trial
Championship race weekend, Saturday and Sunday, August 28th/29th. The Time
Trial will count DOUBLE points towards the Georgia Cup (that’s 30 pts).
Residents from ALL states are eligible for TT points, but only GA residents
qualify for the Georgia TT Championship. First rider leaves at 10:00am, with
riders following at one minute intervals for the duration of contestants.
You must preregister by Thursday. Start times will be posted at
www.georgiacup.com on Friday/27th by 7pm. Juniors 10-12 12K, Juniors 13-14
12K, Juniors 15-16 24K, Juniors 17-18 24K, WCat 4 30K,
MCat 5 30K, Masters 50+ 30K, MCat 4 35K, W Pro 1 2 3 35K, Masters 40+ 35K,
Masters 30+ 35K, MCat 3 35K, Pro 1 2 50K **georgiacup points will be scored
based on georgiacup categories**
Saturday evening there will be a criterium around Heritage Park. The
Criterium is a wide open loop measuring just over a kilometer around a
softball complex with a long, gradual incline to the
finish and only two corners. This is the criterium for guys that don’t like
criteriums! Sunday will be a RR or Circuit Race, depending on the amount of
police support we can attain, to be determined this week.
Either way, it will be a shorter distance to account for the amount of
lactic acid in your legs from
the TT.
THIRD: LaGrange is on and bigger than intended. This is going to be one of
the best weekends of the Georgia Cup calendar. A downtown Prologue, followed
by a downtown criterium with a considerable
hill and a wide open sprint finish down broad street, and a 54K loop RR
around the lake with no
less than six bridges and they are opening the dam for us to cross!! FOURTH:
Gainesville is now an NRC in conjunction with the US 100K! See you labor day
weekend along with the biggest pros in the
country.
FIFTH: Many of you have asked, almost since the first event, if the Georgia
Cup will continue next year. You will be excited to hear the 2005 calendar
has already been set! We have kept the best of
2004, contracted to add few others, and doubled the prize money! Can’t wait
to tell you all about
it! Look for the website to be launched Wednesday, December 1st, just in
time for you to plan your winter training. (oh, and another thing: save
this web address...www.series7racing.com you will
want to check it out December 1st as well.)"
How Dumb Can You Be? My disaster for the day: I've been sick the last
two weeks...in bed,
off the bike, out of work. Of course, I'd preregistered for the Dauset SERC
race a few weeks ago before learning I had to have 3 oral surgeries in 3
weeks, had complications, got a sinus infection, blah, blah, blah. I rode
easily yesterday for a little over an hour on the Comet for the first
time...well, I can barely remember the last time I was on my bike. When my
HR got up for a minute, I felt dizzy. I should have listened to myself and
gone to watch the race at the Dog Days crit in Grant Park instead, but
Oooohhh Noooo...I had to go to Dauset because I'd already paid for it. I was
fine until I hit the first hill. I got so dizzy I could not stay on the
bike. I stopped for a few minutes, watched a couple of experts go by, and
walked/spun my way until I saw a friend that was taking the day off to cheer
on his son. He reminded me of a short cut back to the start line, and I cut
about 2 miles off of the course. I slowly rode/walked out, told them I was
DNFing, and headed back to the car. I think I need a few more days
off.....or at least riding easy. Considering I've been on Vicodan, nasal
steroids, antibiotics, and Allegra the last 2 weeks...yep...need to sleep,
not riding.
8-17-2004 Espoirs National Championship The Espoirs National Championship was held last weekend in Park City, UT. Several Georgia riders participated: 7th: Saul Raisin (Credit Agricole Espoirs), 39th: Michael Wolf (AG Edwards/Nalley), 62nd: David Guttenplan (Locos). Saul will also race with the US National team at the Tour L'Avenir in September. Avenir is the world's most prestigious Under 26 Stage Race.
NARC News Stephen Hill, fresh off his bronze at the Masters Track National Championships, captured a state title in Master 35-39 at the Georgia State Crit Championships this past weekend in Alpharetta, GA. Brother and sister Quint and Jessica Smith took the silver medals in Junior Boys and Girls races. See the NARC website for several new race reports.
Silk Sheets Parking From an email I received: "Over the
weekend, the local police began ticketing
all vehicles parked on the side road at Charlie's Store. Seems a resident on
that short road was moved
to call and file a complaint about the parking situation. This is second
hand, another rider spoke to an
officer who was at the store Sunday AM and the officer warned that he really
didn't want to give out any more tickets and warned people not to park on
the side street. According to the officer, parking on the west side (church)
is a hindrance to travel, and next to the store, the curbed area is the
right-hand turn lane for entrance to the store. I don't play a cop or lawyer
on TV, but both explanations may not require signage to determine the
validity of the officer's actions."
Ride with George Hincapie "Are you ready for a one-day, VIP ride with
George Hincapie on Saturday, October 23?!? We are counting on you to ensure
our first Dodge Tour de Georgia Fundraiser Ride is a success. We look
forward to hearing from you regarding this exciting opportunity.
Highlights:
* Ride with George (approximately 50 miles)
* Saturday, October 23, 2004
* Tiger Mountain Vineyards private wine tasting
* Gourmet lunch at Tiger Vineyard
* Autographed bottle of Georgia wine by George Hincapie
* Persimmon Creek Vineyards private wine tasting
* Exclusive 2005 Tour de Georgia Presentation
* Special LIMITED Edition Commemorative Jersey, designed by Tom Morris of
Cyclosaurs and produced by Hincapie Sports
* Fully Supported by Discover Adventures tour guides
* 25% of the price of each case of wine purchased will directly support the
2005 Tour de Georgia "Healthy Georgia Expo"
* Price: $750
Full Information/Reservations:
www.discoveradventures.com/TourDesc.asp?id=TDG4
Trish's Note: $750...OUCH! I think I'll buy that new chi-chi wheelset instead.
8-19-2004
Midnight Rush Adventure Race Three Atlanta Expert and Pro mountain
bikers competed in the Midnight Rush Adventure in Dawsonville, GA race this
past weekend. Dave Witherow (RBM), Greg Turner (RBM), and Lisa Randall (Cannondale)
placed second in the Coed Elite division. It was a tough course which threw
21 miles of running, 5 miles of paddling, and 15 miles of biking their
way...as well as plenty of bushwhacking. Their finish time was just over 9
hours. Only 12 of the 39 starting teams finished the course before the time
cut-off and over half of them withdrew completely.
This photo is of the trio crossing the river on the bike leg of the
race.
Memphis Velodrome From Memphis: "Tomorrow night (8/19/2004), Andrew
Holliday of Sotox Sports-- uber agent of George Hincapie, Dylan Casey,
Christian Van de Velde-- will be making a
presentation to the city of Memphis on the feasability of a velodrome in our
fair city. The city is razing some old buildings and is taking ideas on what
to do with the leftover land. Andrew asks that you email him with positive
ideas on the viability of a 'drome in Memphis, how it might be used in a
city such as ours (think multi-purpose like Baton Rouge) and how much draw
it might have for riders in the LA, MS, AL, AR, TN, MO region.Please address
emails to andrew@xlmanagement.com
Thanks,
Gary Zyriek, USA Cycling Expert Coach, www.coachz.com"
Raisin moves up at CA American Saul Raisin, currently the only non-French rider on Credit Agricole's Division III espoir team has signed a two-year deal to ride for the Division I CA team from 2005. Trish's Note: Is this the first Division I rider from Georgia?
This Weekend This weekend is the Spring City Cycling Weekend in Alabama. If mountain biking is more your thing, check out SORBA's Nimblewill Mountain Bike Festival at Bull Mountain.
Charlotte Gravity News It's coming this weekend, the Catawba Gravity
Fest, the 4th stop on the
Maxxis Southeast Super Series. This Saturday, August 21st, the southeast's
top downhillers will be at Historic Tuckaseegee Park (a.k.a Catawba
Riverfront Park). Two events will highlight the thrilling action filled day
of gravity events. Registration will open at 9:00AM with Dual qualifying at
11:00AM. Dual is a cross between dual slalom and four-cross. Basically the
dual slalom course will be turned into a head-to-head course with one larger
lane, as opposed to the two lanes in dual slalom. After qualifying, pairings
will be set and a head-to-head single elimination bracket will determine the
winner. At 3:00PM, the downhillers will take to the short but tricky
downhill course of the Catawba Gravity Fest. Top honors will be determined
by taking the best of two runs on the fast course. For times, directions,
categories and all other pertinent information, check out
www.charlottemtnbike.com.
Olympics I'm sure everyone has heard by now that the US won three medals in Wednesday's Individual Time Trials at the Athens Olympics. Tyler Hamiton (USA/Phonak) won the gold in the men's event with Bobby Julich (USA/CSC) in third. Dede Demet-Barry (T-Mobile) won the silver in the women's event while Christine Thornburn (Webcor) was fourth. Go to your favorite cycling website and read all about it.
8-20-2004
IMBA Epics Once again a Southeastern Trail has been chosen as an IMBA
Epic. The Tanasi trail system near the Ocoee River in East Tennessee will be
the site of the November 13-14
IMBA Epic.
Free Flite at BC Free Flite Bicycles will be having a customer
appreciation day at Blanket's Creek on Sat., Aug. 29 from 9 am to 6 pm. Free
food and drinks will be available. Six Tour De France Wins tshirts will be
given to the first 300 people. There will also be a free raffle for a $500
mountain bike and a trainer.
OTR Cycling OTR Cycling....It's coming to a race near you in 2005! Stay tuned....This is gonna be GOOD!
8-23-2004 Dog Days Crit Results TheDog Days Crit results are up. The L5Flyers said that about 200 riders took part in the crit, and that it was a resounding success. Hopefully, it will return as the only ITP (inside the Perimeter) race next year as well.
New Hickory, NC Club The Hickory (NC) Velo Club has a new website.
Junior National Championships The 2003 Junior National Time Trial
Champion, Zach Taylor from Marietta, was beaten by Chris Stockburger for the
17-18 year old
National Time Trial Championship
this week. Lauren Trull from North Carolina won bronze in the Women's 17-18
Year Old Time
Trial.
CX Information at Macon GAP Race From Shey Linder, one of the promoters of the Covington Cyclocross race: "Hello racers, there will be an info booth set up at the Macon GAP race for anyone interested in learing more about cyclocross. This is to promote the sport and welcome any MTBers to join us this winter. For more info go to www.georgia-cross.com."
Lance Armstrong wins Tour De France Number 6. On the Champs Elysees. Photo by Atlanta Becky Miller.
US Pro Crit Championships The US Pro Crit National Championships was Sunday in Downer's Grove, IL, its traditional home. King of the US Crit circuit Jonas Carney (Jelly Belly) took the National title in his final year of racing. Atlanta John Murphy (Jittery Joes) was 23rd. Other Jittery Joes riders placing were: 27 Chad Hartley and 34 Jonny Sundt. Queen of the Crits, Dahlonega resident Tina Pic (Genesis) won her third national criterium championship in the Elite Women's race. Her Genesis teammate Laura Van Gilder was 2nd. (no full results available) Tina also won Saturday's warm up crit. Results and reports.
Junior National Championships The Junior National Championships continued this weekend in Utah. Marietta resident Zach Taylor (Hot Tubes) avenged his loss in the Time Trial by taking the Men's 17-18 crit National Championship. Kyle, Sean and Sara Cochran (NARC) wrapped up a long weekend of racing at Nationals as well. They had some great results.
8-24-2004 U23 National Championships Tim Henry checks in with his report from Deer Valley, Utah, site of the 2004 Espoir National Championships. Tim and the team work for John Murphy in the crit and try to survive the road race.
Covington Photos Photos of the Covington Century are up.
Athens Ghost Race SORBA-Athens will be hosting a Ghost Race on Thursday, Sept. 2 at a trail TBD. This will be a timed solo night ride with riders starting at 15 minute intervals. Lights are required.
8-25-2004 This Weekend This weekend is the Georgia State Time Trial Championship in Madison. The Georgia Cup is also being held in Madison. For those that prefer their action in the dirt, GAP heads to Macon to contest the Macon Madness race.
The Cat. 5 Men in action at the Dog Days crit. Photo by Michael McGee.
8-26-2004 Women's Only Ride SORBA Woodstock is hosting a Women`s Only ride at Blankets Creek on Sept 11th @ 9AM. This is a social event so everyone is invited, ages/skills. After the ride stick around for brunch and plan future rides! For more info please check: http://www.sorbawoodstock.org/WomenRide.pdf
Big Creek Trails The City of Roswell will hold an informational meeting for residents concerning its plans for Big Creek Park and the development of the park’s wetlands on Tuesday, August 31, 2004 from 7:00-8:30 p.m. in the Northwood Elementary School Cafeteria, 10200 Wooten Road in Roswell. Some of the projects that will be discussed during the meeting include the City’s plans for the development of the wetlands, trails that will connect to Northwood Elementary School for outdoor classrooms, a boardwalk over the wetlands, and the concrete greenway trail. For more information concerning the meeting, please visit the City of Roswell’s website at www.roswellgov.com or call 770-641-3715.
Michelin News-Now Greenville Cycling Classic You've been looking
forward to it for months and now it's official. The 20th Annual Greenville
Cycling Classic presented by Hincapie Sportswear (formerly known as the
Michelin Classic) will be held as planned on October 9, 2004 in downtown
Greenville. This annual criterium has been a mainstay on the National Racing
Calendar for two decades and
regularly attracts some of the country's most talented riders. Hincapie
Sportswear is proud to be the title sponsor of this year's event. The
schedule will include a full weekend of racing for riders in almost every
category. The exciting action will be highlighted by the $10,000 Hincapie
Sportswear Criterium at 6pm on Saturday, October 9, 2004. There's a fast new
course for Saturday's exciting action that incorporates the historic West
End of Greenville. Sunday's course will be the same great 1K course used in
2003. Stick around for Sunday's racing and enjoy the great Fall for
Greenville festival activities that include some great food and live music
just a few feet from turn one. We hope you can join us on October 9th for
the exciting fast-paced action at one of the Southeast's most prestigious
events. We would also like to express our sincerest appreciation to the
LowCountry Velo Club for their very generous support of this year's event.
Without their valuable assistance, and the help of several other important
friends of bicycle racing, we would not be able to host such a first-class
event. Thank you to all that have assisted with this year's race! Look out
for more detailed info at
www.hincapiesports.com/cyclingclassic or call 864-298-0392
See you on October 9th.
Rich Hincapie, President
Hincapie Sportswear, Inc.
Georgia Cyclocross News New (Final) Schedule for 2004!
Due to a venue conflict at Paulding, we move the race out one week. This
left a hole in the first weekend of December. Tommy Bass and the folks @ The
Hub Bikes have stepped up. Backed by popular demand, Sandy Creek Park will
host a race on Dec. 5. So, there will not be any double race weekends in
2004. This reflects the racer feedback from last season. The State
Championship has been moved to Nov. 21 at Jim Miller Park. This was a new
venue last year and got very high marks from everyone. We look forward to
seeing everyone at States!
Here is the new 2004 schedule:
Oct. 24 – Covington, GA
Oct. 30 – Macon, GA
Nov. 7 – Criswell Park (Monroe, GA)
Nov. 14 – Dauset Trails (Jackson, GA)
Nov. 21 – Jim Miller Park (Marietta, GA)(State Championships)
Dec. 5 - Sandy Creek Park (Athens, GA)
Dec. 12 – Paulding Meadows Park (Dallas, GA)
Changes for Women's Racing (Trish's note: Thanks to the one promoter that
really fought for this!!)
The 2003 series saw a large increase in the number of women racing cross. In
recognition of this, we are changing things up a little to encourage even
more to come out in 2004. The women 1/2/3 and pro/expert/sport will continue
to race in Group C. Women 4 and Beginners will have a separate race in Group
D. They will start as a separate waive. This will give the new racers a
chance to try cross with a little less demanding race time. If the turn out
in the women's category grows larger than expected, we will consider a fifth
category for women only. We hope these changes will encourage more women to
try cross!
8-27-2004 Yellow River News I've heard that the River Side at Yellow River is now blocked just after the swamp area where the trail opens up into a small field about 4 miles in. They are bulldozing it for a new bike only parking lot. Apparently, on Sept. 6 a decision will be made concerning closing the River Side to all traffic. The Creek side is open.
Cyclist Killed in Gwinnett From the AJC: "In Gwinnett, a bicyclist was struck by a car and killed just before 5 a.m. on Peachtree Industrial Boulevard at McGinnis Ferry Road in Suwanee. Gwinnett police Sgt. Wayne Thaxton said there are two continuing lanes and a right turn lane on northbound Peachtree Industrial, and the car was in the right continuing lane when one of two bicyclists riding together veered into his lane. The car struck that bike, killing its rider, 35-year-old Antonio Serrano of Alpharetta. "We believe that bicycle, when it went down, took out the other bicycle," Thaxton said. The second cyclist sustained only minor injuries and was treated at the scene. The car's driver, a 19-year-old man from Alpharetta, was not injured. Thaxton said that while no charges had been filed late this morning, the accident remained under investigation and both the driver and the surviving bike rider could possibly face charges. Bicyclists are supposed to be on the right edge of the roadway, and they were not," Thaxton said." Antonio was an avid triathlete and leaves behind a wife and two small children. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers.
Trish's note: It is state law that cyclists are supposed to ride "as far as practically possible" to the right hand side of the road, not on the shoulder or in the gutter as stated by the police officer. The exception is if there is a dedicated bike path on the other side of the street or if cyclists are turning left. I do not have any other details about the wreck. Please be careful out there!
US National Team Mike Wolf, who races with AG Edwards/Nalley when in the US, is back in Europe for the rest of the season competing with the US National team. He is currently racing in the Grand Prix Tell, a 5 day stage race in Switzerland. Full coverage is available at cyclingnews.com.
8-30-2004
Fund for Tony's Family A fund for Tony Serrano's children has been
set up. You can send donations to Serrano's Children College Fund, c/o David
M Raglend, 1503 B Northside Drive,
Atlanta, GA 30318.
SC Dangerous Driver A motorist has been reported to the York
County, SC Sheriff's Dept as
having been intentionally & unlawfully endangering the lives of two local
cyclists. For more information, see the following
http://www.gastoncountycyclists.com/dangerous_driver.htm
Rebecca is Back! Rebecca is back after sitting out a month of racing. She has two reports up at mtbr.com: Dauset AMBC and Hobby Park, NC.
New Trails at Lake Allatoona? From The Marietta Daily Journal reports that a 100 space parking lot will be built on newly acquired park land in Cobb County near Lake Allatoona. It will "accommodate hunters and other outdoor recreational seekers such as hikers, bikers or horse riders." Currently, the county is preparing to allow hunting on the 1450 acres of land. A network of trails will be built "soon."
NORBA Jittery Joes Cesar Grajales (Jittery Joes), best known for winning the Brasstown Bald stage of the Tour De Georgia, was 4th in the Pro Men's Cross Country at the NORBA NCS Finals in Durango, CO this weekend.
Maxxis Cup Final The Maxxis Cup Series finale has been moved to Oct. 23-24. It will include a crit in downtown Canton, a KOM time trial, and a metric century ride. Trish's note: I don't know what is meant by a metric century ride. Maybe they are forgoing the road race? As always, check with the race promoter regarding specific questions about a race.
More on the Accident From the
Gwinnett Daily "A bicyclist who drifted into traffic was struck and
killed Thursday on Peachtree Industrial Boulevard north of McGinnis Ferry
Road. Authorities said Antonio Serrano, 35, and his friend were bicycling
north on Peachtree Industrial Boulevard at 5 a.m. Thursday when Serrano
drifted from a right-turn-only lane into a northbound lane of traffic. A
1987 Honda Prelude traveling north at about 45 mph came up behind Serrano
and slammed into him, killing him almost instantly. Investigators said
either the falling bicycle or Serrano then struck the second bicyclist,
35-year-old Brian Mock. Mock suffered only minor injuries. "It was just dark
and obviously the car was behind them, so they didn't see the car coming and
the car driver couldn't see them," said Sgt. Wayne Thaxton of the Gwinnett
Police Accident Investigation Unit. Serrano was wearing a helmet, but
bicycle helmets are only designed to protect from low-speed impacts, Thaxton
said. Thaxton said no charges have been filed against the driver, Joseph
Nicolosi IV, 19, of Alpharetta, because bicycle riders are supposed to
remain on the right edge of the roadway. At the site of the accident,
Peachtree Industrial Boulevard north is two continuing traffic lanes and a
right-turn-only lane. Witnesses said Serrano had
been bicycling at the left edge of the right-turn-only lane, bordering
closely on the right lane of continuing traffic. Serrano and Mock usually
rode their bicycles together every morning, and they had already traveled
about 15 miles prior to the accident, Thaxton said." Trish's note: There has
been a lot of debate that the two cyclists were where they were supposed to
be according to Georgia law. From what I've read everywhere, the cyclists
were following the traffic laws. No where does it state that a cyclist must
ride in a turning lane when they will continue straight. Would a car drive
in a right turning lane if it was going straight? No.
Georgia Cup Commentary on the complete disaster will be forthcoming.
The Pro/1/2 field at the Dog Days Crit. Photo by Michael McGee.
YR Master Plan I found an interesting link to the Yellow River Master Plan.
8-31-2004
More Cesar Showing his versatility, Jittery Joes rider Cesar Grajales
won the
men's
Marathon at the NORBA NCS race in Durango, CO on Sunday.
Road vs. MTB Someone posted this on a list I'm on. Change "Hot Spot"
to your local favorite quickie mart.
Road - Skinny Tires
MTB - Fat Tires
Road - Worry about cars
MTB - Worry about not having beer in the car
Road - Start riding at 7 AM
MTB - Start riding around 10ish
Road - Take a break at a Hot Spot
MTB - Take a break underneath a waterfall and cool off with a quick shower
Road - Eat a highly nutritious pre-ride breakfast
MTB - Stop at Hardee's for a couple of sausage biscuits
Road - Worry about getting dropped
MTB - Worry about which Mexican Restaurant you're going to after the ride
Road - Buy a bike and never change any parts for years
MTB - Buy a bike and replace all components within 6 months
Road - Too much like work
MTB - Too much like FUN!
Macon Madness The Macon Madness this weekend was a success. It was
profiled in the
Macon
Telegraph.