February 2004 Archive

2-2-2004 Prestige Women's Cycling Series Out of last year's Yoplait Women's Cycling Summit Conferences comes the 2004 Women's Prestige Cycling Series, a national level cycling series for Elite Womens teams. The four events comprising the series will be the Redlands Bicycle Classic, Nature Valley Grand Prix, Tour de 'Toona, and Bermuda Grand Prix, which will serve as the finale. The Wachovia Liberty Classic and T-Mobile International may be included, pending a decision from Threshold Sports. The first three events will be contested by all participating teams. The fourth, the Bermuda Grand Prix, will be for the top ten teams, as the promoter has generously offered to provide free airfare and housing for those squads. The 
series web page is: http://www.WomenCyclists.com. 

Southeastern Cycling asked several of the Atlanta based teams if they will be participating in the Prestige Women's Series: 

Genesis will join the ranks of the Elite Women's squads in the US in 2004. From Mike Skop, the Directeur Sportif: "Genesis Scuba/FFCC team is looking forward to competing in this year's inaugural series. It will be one of the major objectives of our season. We are very excited about this series and it's implications for the sport of women's cycling. This high profile series is the perfect venue for the premier riders and teams to gain much needed exposure for the sport of women's cycling. Just as important, the limited number of races allows for local and regional teams who have smaller budgets to complete in the entire series against the best riders in North America. That in my opinion with be (sic) the most lasting legacy of this series. The Genesis Scuba team was founded on the ideal that we would take local and regional riders and prepare them for national and 
international competition…So much emphasis is being put on these 4 races that smaller teams from around the country can be assured that if they make the decision to be a part of this series, the will be guaranteed to be racing against both the biggest national squads and other top regional teams in a series of high profile events. That means a lot to the racers and to their sponsors. Perhaps most importantly, with so many new racers likely to come out and compete in this series, we're bound to discover some exciting new talent in this sport. That's bodes really well for women's cycling." 

Kim Sawyer, DS of the new Travel Girl team, said that Travel Girl team will not be participating in the series. "I think it is a great idea and am really excited for all the teams this would benefit. We would love to be able to participate, but, for us, the extra limiting factor is time. We all work full-time and would simply not be able to commit to the series. However, should the series exist for 2005, there's much more of a possibility since 
we'll all know what to expect ahead of time." When asked what she thought that the Women's Prestige Cycling Series means for women's cycling in the US, Kim said, "It is a great chance for lower-budget teams to compete in a much more manageably-sized national series. Those are some good races, too. I think the 'Prestige' part of the title is very fitting! Also, seeing that this particular women's cycling issue has gone from a kind of rumbling, wide-spread concern, to a spoken issue at the Women's Summit, to action in the form of this series is very exciting and hopefully just begins to open the door to all kinds of exciting possibilities for women racers." 

Trish Albert of the Boneshakers Women's Team said that BCTWT will not be participating in the series. "We have decided this year to concentrate on local NRC events as well as three major stage races. Since many on the team work full-time, we have to schedule our time off. We put our race schedule together before the Prestige Series announcement. The Prestige Series is a fantastic idea for women's cycling. Regional teams will be competing against the Elite teams while keeping the expenses of travel under control. It will allow regional riders to race against the best women in the US. BCTWT hopes to participate in 2005."

Alan Factory Team News The Alan Factory CX Team is expanding for 2004. Its roster currently includes Georgia Elite riders Lisa Randall and Jed Schneider. -Cyclingnews.com 

Italian Festival "Italian Road Bike Festival - March 13th & 14th - Ellijay, Ga. Cartecay Bike Shop - Saturday 27 mile loop with 50 mile option containing 3,300 ft. elev. of climbing. Sunday 65 mile loop over Fort Mountain. Saturday 10am, Sunday 12 noon! Join us for fantastic Italian food and great road riding with a festival atmosphere. Sponsored by Cartecay Bike shop - Ellijay, Ga., Bike Connection - Jasper, Ga., River City Bikes - Chattanooga, Tn. Featuring Italian Bikes from Moser, Carrera, Olmo, Colnago, Bianchi, Eddy Merckx and North American bikes from Litespeed and Cervelo."

BRAG Route Announced The 2004 Bicycle Ride Across Georgia (BRAG) route was announced today. It will take riders from Toccoa to Tybee Island. 

2-3-2004 New Postal Uniforms What do YOU think of the new US Postal Uniforms. I love blue, but these are just plain, and there are too many stripes. 

George Hincapie Interview The Daily Peloton has a great interview with George Hincapie at the recent US Postal training camp in California. 

2-4-2004  Tour De Georgia in Alpharetta? The City of Alpharetta has a history of bringing world class athletic events to the city such as a world Duathlon championship. Alpharetta is now vying for the final stage of the Tour De Georgia. Southeastern Cycling speculates that it would be held in the Windward Parkway area, where there is ample parking and the duathlons have been run in the past. -Northfulton.com

Lance is Coming! Lance is racing the Tour De Georgia as reported on Lancearmstrong.com. "Lance Armstrong and Team USPS presented by Berry Floor will be racing at the Tour de Georgia to be held April 20-25, 2004. While the final course decisions are still being finalized, Mark Higgins of Capital Sports & Entertainment said, "We know one of the stages will feature a challenging route in the morning, then a short rest period followed by an Individual Time Trial in the afternoon. There are also some good climbing opportunities on the route as well."' 

Tour De Georgia Tours "Recently it was announced that a full squad from US Postal Pro-Cycling Team, presented by Berry Floor, including Lance Armstrong, will participate in the 2nd Annual DODGE Tour de Georgia professional stage race in Georgia on April 20-25th. As most of you will know, aside from
various ceremonial races over the past years, fans of Lance Armstrong have not had the opportunity to watch Lance race except on European soil. We have a unique opportunity ahead of us to actually watch LA race on
American soil as he prepares for his 6th consecutive Tour de France victory. Discover Adventures has been selected as the official tour operator of the 2004 Dodge Tour de Georgia. We have designed two tours of the Dodge Tour de Georgia, including one that will follow the entire tour start to finish, and one that will follow the tour over the mountain stages during the final weekend. It is my hope and desire that you will share with your club members, colleagues and friends information about our tour’s of the Tour. Additionally, for any club that chooses to add our company link to their website (or have already done so), their members will save $25 on either tour. Please consult with me regarding the link. If you are affiliated with a collegiate bicycle racing team, we are also going to offer special pricing for collegiate racers for this event. Please consult with me regarding this pricing. We are seeking tour guide positions for our tours, but the positions will be restricted to Georgia residents per event guidelines. Complete tour-of-the-Tour details, press releases and information can be
found at this link. I would be happy to field any questions you may have regarding the event. Thank you for your consideration in regards to forwarding this information onto your members, colleagues and friends. Respectfully, Tom McManners, Founder & President, Discover Adventures, Office Phone – 404-875-9996,
Email: tom@discoveradventures.com"

Late Breaking News!  

Greenville Series Flier The Greenville Series Flier is here! The training series will have races each weekend Feb. 27-28 through March 13-14. See the flier for all the details. 

2-5-2004 Charlotte Winter Training Ride "This Saturday, February 7, Charlotte Sports Cycling and the Just Fresh-Clif Bar Cycling Team will host our 5th Annual Winter Training Ride. The ride will feature three well marked routes with rest stops, mechanical, and sag support....30, 55 and 70 mile options. After the ride, we will have tons of food, including homemade vegetable soup and pasta salad. The 55 and 70 mile routes will offer several challenges during the ride, two KOM's and two sprint primes. Prizes will be awarded for all four challenges. Also, check this out: Please consider bringing one of your old cycling caps to the ride this weekend. Christina DeKraay of the Fuji Cycling Team is collecting cycling caps to take to the children of Gabon, Africa. Christina will be working in a Missionary Hospital in a Africa for a few weeks and is looking forward to giving the kids a small gift from the local cyclists. All caps in any condition will be greatly appreciated. If you can not come to the ride, drop off your old caps at the Bike Gallery or SouthPark Cycles before February 14. All pertinent information for the event can be found at http://www.charlottesportscycling.com/febtrainingride.htm."

Bobby Julich to ride Tour De Georgia American Bobby Julich (CSC) said in an interview with the Daily Peloton that he will be riding in the Tour De Georgia in April. He will aim for a stage win. -Daily Peloton

GAP Schedule The GAP Schedule has been released. The venues are not complete; I will update the schedule as that information is released. 

Real Pro Interview Answers Want to know what Pro riders really mean when the press interviews them? Tick tells you! My favorite: Q. What are your goals for this season? Answer 1. As a newcomer I just want to integrate myself into the team. (I want to make sure the Sporting Director remembers my name at the end of the season!) -Daily Peloton

WBL Kalahari Classic This Saturday will be the WBL Kalahari Classic. Four and half hours of pleasure and pain await riders. -Winter Bike League

Locos/Dixons Roster "The Locos/Dixons cycling team returns for its fourth year in 2004. Although the team started as a Category 4/5 team, it has followed its riders through the USCF ranks and has reached the elite ranks for 2004. This year's team is comprised of the same core riders from the last few years with two strong additions: David Guttenplan and Kurt Garin. Garin rode as a domestique for Jittery Joe's last year and is looking to make his mark in the elite ranks as one of the team's leaders. Guttenplan is coming off his last year as a junior and will look for similar success in the U23 field. Team goals for the 2004 season include the 'home' race, the Athens Twilight, the Elite National Road Race, Elite Criterium Nationals, and the Espoir and Master's National Championships. Sponsors include Locos Deli and pub, Dixons Bicycles, Horizon Micro-Environments, Bianchi, Briko, Topolino, Carnac, Speedplay and Maxxis. Team roster: Marc Anderson, David Crowe, Kurt Garin, David Guttenplan, Dan Holt, Phil Southerland. Masters: John Birch, Courtney Davis, Herman Dean, John Dowd, George Drewry. Team Manager: Micah Morlock

2-7-2004 Tour De Georgia Route Announced The route for the Tour De Georgia has been announced. Click here for more details.
Stage 1: Tuesday, April 20 --- Macon to Milledgeville to Macon, 85-mile stage race. 
Stage 2: Wednesday, April 21 --- Thomaston to Columbus, 115-mile stage race. 
Stage 3: Thursday, April 22 --- Carrollton to Rome, 72-mile stage race. 
Stage 4: Thursday, April 22 --- Rome, 21-mile individual time trial. 
Stage 5: Friday, April 23 --- Dalton to Dahlonega, 128-mile stage race. 
Stage 6: Saturday, April 24 --- Athens to Hiawassee/Young Harris, 128-mile 
stage race. Mountaintop finish on Brasstown Bald. 
Stage 7: Sunday, April 25 --- Dawsonville to Alpharetta, 80-mile stage/circuit 
race. 

2004 GA CX Series The preliminary schedule for the 2004 Cyclocross Series has been released. 

2-8-2004 CX Bikes for Sale 2003 Alan Ultral Cross (49 cm), White and Blue Easton Ultralite Aluminium Tubing throughout, handmade in Italy, List retail with carbon fork: $1200, Asking: $700 rame/fork with FSA intergrated HS, Impalla frogleg brakes, truvativ giga pipe BB, Can be built up to a complete bike, small paint abrasions where cables touch frame, no other damage, ridden less than 30 times and 2003 Alan X33 Carbon Cross (49 cm), Raw carbon with blue and white, Main tubes and fork are carbon, chainstays, lugs are AL, List retail price with carbon fork: $1400, Asking: $1000 with Campy Carbon Record HS and Impalla frogleg brakes, truvativ, Ti Giga pipe BB, Can be built up to a complete bike small paint abrasions where cables touch frame, no other damage ridden less than 10 times pictures and more info on the bikes are available at: http://www.euromediagroup.us/alancross.html Contact info: Jed Schneider, Athens, GA jed@jedschneider.net.

A Friendly Reminder Southeastern Cycling does not sponsor any rides, races, or cycling events. If you have a question regarding a specific ride/race/event, email or call the promoter. Southeastern Cycling regrets that it cannot answer email about events. But WHY Trish? Because SE Cycling is run by one person--me. I do it because I love cycling and keeping the community informed about race news and Southeastern tidbits. I already get about 150 emails a day from friends, for work, and mailing lists I pull some of the SE Cycling content from. I also have a little thing called a job that I have to be at about 10 hours a day; I also train 2-5 hours a day and have to find time to run my household, do yardwork, and all the things that you have to do in life. I don't have time to answer email about events. That's why I post the contact info. for the promoters. Don't be lazy! Look it up yourself! Off my soap box now. (Of course, if you need info about the Tundra TT, I'll be happy to help!!)

Another Reminder  Cycling is a dangerous sport. Southeastern Cycling, Trish Albert, Southeastern Cycling writers and photographers, and anyone else are not responsible if you get lost or hurt while riding your bike. You ride at your own risk and assume all responsibility for yourself and your equipment. The views expressed in articles and race reports are not necessarily the views of Southeastern Cycling or Trish Albert.

Something I Like I like this quote...it sort of describes my road racing experiences. "If at first you don't succeed, keep on sucking until you do succeed." I may get dropped, but at least I'm out there!

2-10-2004 Feb. SORBA Women's Only Ride Date: Feb. 28. "Join us for an all skill level women's only ride at Blankets and let's check out that new loop. If it is raining, or it the trail is closed, the ride will be canceled. Contact Sherri Hall for more info. events@sorba.org"

2-11-2004 Balance Bar Adventure Race The Balance Bar Adventure Race is returning to Fort Yargo State Park June 19-20 and is looking for a Volunteer Coordinator. The position pays $1,000 and you will need to start looking for volunteers right now. A summary of the job follows. Please contact Race Director, Nick Moore nick.moore@octagon.com if interested and tell him your qualifications. 

WBL News "Feb 7 st Team Kalahari - Crowe Law Firm Elberton classic: Russ Gabriel scores a devastating knockout in the 15th round as the clock winds down as he wins breakaway sprint in The Kalahari Bowman Classic and becomes the third first-time winner of 2004. Gabriel withstands flurry of furious attacks in last nine miles as riders desperate for a win launch all-out bids for glory. 
Shooting Starr holding firm in Yellow with only two weeks to go. Erin Winter and Iona Wynter now locked in deathgrip for Blue, each tied for the lead. Acrimonious words exchanged between the two camps. Near fight. Shake-up in Red contest." -Winter Bike League

Tundra TT Is Coming! The Tundra Time Trial is coming! The Date: Feb. 22, The Place: The Silver Comet. The Time: 8:30 am. Who will win the coveted Hammer Award this year? Get all the details! or Email Mitch with questions. 

Commuting There was a good article in the Athens paper the other day about commuting by bicycle. 

2-12-2004 Tour De Georgia News Macon is gearing up to host the opening stage of the Tour De Georgia in April. The economic impact is said to have a positive effect on the area's economy. -Macon Telegraph

SC Bike Lanes South Carolina finished a project to put bike lanes on Highway 11, a scenic highway through the Upstate. Cycling and tourism traffic is expected to increase because of it. -Greenville News

2-12-2004 NC/SC Road Race Schedule "The preliminary 2004 North Carolina / South Carolina USCF Race Schedule is ready. It is the 1st edition, & as such is subject to change. Send any corrections, additions, or deletions to my attention. The Southeast USCF Race Schedule is nearing completion. Listings for most SE races outside of NC & SC have been submitted, but there are many with little more than the race name & date. If you are a race organizer or club contact, please send me the details for your race, including the race date, the type of race, race location, & organizer contact info (including phone nr., email address, website, club name, mailing address), so I can include it on the Race Schedule. The attached file is a pdf. You will need Adobe's Acrobat or Acrobat Reader to view it. Here's to a great year of racing! Chips Chapman"

Royce Smith Memorial Ride There will be a Royce Smith Memorial Ride on the Silver Comet Trail 
on Saturday, April 24, 2004, starting at 10 a.m. Everyone is invited. The ride will leave from the Silver Comet Depot on Floyd Rd in Mableton. The ride will be an out and back on the Silver Comet Trail, so the distance can be any distance you like.....The plan is for Pegi Boatright and Royce's children to spread his 
ashes at the trestle on the trail. Rev. Jeff Thompson has agreed to lead us in prayer near the site. Darrell Odom and Barry Berland have agreed to help us keep the trail open while we stop and honor Royce. We will have our prayer service on solid ground, then Pegi and Royce's children will distribute his ashes in private at the trestle."

Ocoee/Hwy 64 Widening Comments "Don't forget to send your comments on the proposed relocation of Hwy 64 ("Appalachian Development Highway System Corridor K") - due February 15! The draft EIS 
(http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/information-office/hotprojects/deis/default.htm) for this project favors relocating Hwy 64 (which runs through the Ocoee Gorge) by building a new, interstate-style highway right through a 
wild area of the Cherokee National Forest - one of the South's most critical undeveloped forested habitats. Both of the proposed routes would cause serious impacts... - fragmented and degraded habitat for wildlife, including black bears,- deep, unsightly cuts into steep terrain, creating unstable slopes,- potential devastation of streams and aquatic life due to sedimentation, and leaching from acid-bearing shales that are common along the proposed routes, - degradation (by noise, pollution, visual impacts) of the natural forest experience for hikers, cyclists, campers, anglers, and other recreational users,- noise and visual degradation of the Ocoee canyon experience for sightseers and boaters (due to highway river crossings) Here's a sampling of what is outlined for the project... - THREE crossings of the Ocoee River by this noisy, ugly interstate-style highway 
- 30-31 river/stream crossings, including 21 bridges (some as tall as100 feet) and 9-10 culverts - 6,600 to 8,000 feet of impacted streams and 1,300 to 2,700 feet of impacted side-streams - Four 4-lane tunnels 
- Eight+ connectors back to old Hwy 64 (Ocoee Gorge) - 7-8 recreational trail segments physically affected (relocated) - ~850 acres of farmland converted to highway right-of-way Now for the most appalling part... - the 20.5-mile project is estimated to cost ~$1.5 BILLION (about $73 MILLION per mile) - AND the State must pay 20% - that's $300 MILLION ($14.6 MILLION per mile) This project was conceived in the 1960s as part of the Appalachian Development Highway System to improve transportation system linkages, satisfy design standards appropriate for a trucking network, and reduce travel delays for through-traffic. If implemented, the project could seriously and irreparably damage the natural resources that have spurred 
the growth of the existing recreational and tourism-based businesses in the area. Please send your comments favoring a "NO-BUILD" option to TDOT: Charles Bush, Environmental Planning and Permits, Suite 900, J.K. Polk, 505 Deaderick, Nashville, TN 37243-0443 or charles.bush@state.tn.us. Ask for additional public hearings in larger cities (Knoxville, Chattanooga, Cleveland), where many recreational users of this area live. (The only public hearings were held in the local towns of Ducktown and Benton on week nights.) 

Also please write your Tennessee state legislators (http://www.legislature.state.tn.us/,) who would have to appropriate state funds for the project. You may want to contact our U.S. senators, Rep. Zack Wamp (the project would be in his district), and the Governor. See contact info below. This project is not a "done deal!" Our comments can make a difference!"

2-13-2004 Like to Jump Off of Stuff? There is a new web page. Check out Atlanta's Freeride Destination. 

Figure Skating--Meet Cycling As a former figure skater in a different life (before I discovered horses), I still watch figure skating on television when it is on. I was looking for companies to go to the Tour De France with when I came across High Gear Travel, which is in part run by former pro David Phinney. Does anyone 
remember the 92 Olympic Silver medal figure skater Paul Wylie? He's now a cyclist and partner in High Gear. Interesting....-High Gear Travel 

Officials Clinic "To All Current USCF & NORBA and Future USAC Officials: There will be a USAC Officials Clinic for North Carolina, South Carolina, & surrounding states on February 22, 2004. It will be held in Burlington, NC, and will run from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm with a break for lunch. The clinic is open to anyone from any state. USA Cycling is making several changes to the Officials Program this year. One is the restructuring of USCF & NORBA Officials as unified Cycling Officials. Another is the reclassification of the officials grades (or categories). The Clinic will be an update and refresher for all current USCF & NORBA 
officials covering new and existing rules. It will also be a training for anyone wanting to become a new (Regional Category C) cycling official. At the end of the clinic, an exam for category C officials will be given. Upon passing the exam, you will qualify for an official's license. The USAC Official license fee is $35. There will be refreshments in the morning and a mid-day break for lunch. There is a $10 fee to defer the cost of the refreshments, lunch, and materials. There is no other charge for the clinic except for the license fee if you become an official or renew your license. Please respond to let me know if you will attend the clinic. If you know anyone who is interested in becoming an official, please send me their names and how to contact them, and forward this info to them. I will send you details for the clinic. -Chips Chapman

2-14-2004 House Bill "Have you ever thought that penalties for those who crash into and injure 
bicyclists have been too lenient? Often under current law, penalties are as meager as $25 fines. Well, Georgia House Bill 1155 provides for enhanced minimum penalties for right of way violations that lead to collisions that injure, maim, or kill motorcyclists, bicyclists, or pedestrians. The bill was initiated by the motorcycling community (in particular, ABATE of Georgia) and sponsored by Representatives Alan Powell, Bill Cummings, Bobby Parham, Bill Hembree, and Stacy Reece. They specifically wanted to include  bicyclists and pedestrians in the bill's coverage -- major kudos to them! HB1155 passed out of the House Motor Vehicle Committee by unanimous vote on Tuesday, February 10. It now awaits House Rules Committee action before it can be put to the floor for a vote. If it passes the House, the bill would then move through the same process in the Georgia Senate. If this bill in its current form is one that you think is a good idea, consider contacting your representative. If he or she is on the House Rules Committee, that's all the better. Note that a handwritten letter works best, then a fax, telephone call, or e-mail (in that order). Want to read HB1155? Go to: www.legis.state.ga.us/ and type 1155 in the HB retrieve-the-bill box. Which Representatives are on the House Rules Committee? See: www.legis.state.ga.us/legis/2003_04/house/Committees/gahrules.htm 
Who is your Representative and how do you contact them? See: http://congress.org/congressorg/officials/state/?state=GA&lvl=L 
or www.sos.state.ga.us/cgi-bin/locator.asp or www.vote-smart.org/ (may need this www.usps.com/zip4/)"

Tour De France Predictions How will the Tour De France unfold? One cyclingnews.com reader gives his 
hilarious predictions. --Cyclingnews.com

Starting List for Valley of the Sun The Valley of the Sun Stage Race in Arizona has released the start lists of the Elite Women's teams. Genesis will ride their first major race as an Elite team with the following riders: Candice Blickem, Grace Fleury, Sue Palmer-Komar, Kori Seehafer, Maggie Shirley, Laura Van Gilder, and Iona Wynter. Other Atlanta riders participating include: John Murphy (Nalley Lexus) and Chad Hartley (Jittery Joes). Look for John and Chad to work together. --Daily Peloton 

Who Stole the Big Yellow Ball? Time to 'Fess up! Who stole the Big Yellow Ball that usually hangs in the sky?!?! Where has it been? We want it back! I expect to see it back or there will be consequences like not being able to ride outside again all week. Bring it back!

2-16-2004 I'm Taking Up Swimming There is a huge puddle in my back yard. I think I'm going to give up cycling and take up swimming in the puddle in my back yard. Would anyone possibly like to try snokeling?

Pantani Dead If you've been hiding in a hole and haven't heard, Marco Pantani died. See Velonews.com and cyclingnews.com for full details. 

Georgia Riders Dominate Valley of the Sun Crit The Genesis squad as well as several other Southeastern based riders took part in the Valley of the Sun Stage Race in Arizona this weekend. Chad Hartley (Jittery Joes) won the men's criterium on Sunday. Laura Van Gilder, racing for Genesis, won the women's crit. -Cyclingnews.com 

2-17-2004 Blanket's Creek Trail "Blankets Creek Mountain Bikers come join us Sat Feb 21st at 9 am to 12 pm for Trail Maintenance. We will work on repairs to Dwelling and will be building obstacles in the field for the Pedalpaluza Party. Lunch will be provide at the end of Trail Maintenance. There is a lot of maintenance needed on Dwelling with all the rain we have had. Give 4 hours of your time to keep Blankets a great to ride! See you Saturday-Charlie Shultz" -Sorba Woodstock

NC Epic Mountain Biking Mountain Goat Epics is now online. The website focuses on mountain biking in the Asheville area. This page is a little sparse now but has a lot of potential. 

SE Cycling Photos of YOU! Are you doing the Tundra Time Trial? Want a photo taken of YOU? Just come find me and ask me. For a small donation to Southeastern Cycling, I'll take a photo and send you a 4'x6" (minimum $2 donation). I will be volunteering, so my photo taking will be limited, but I'll do my best. 

Tundra Time Trial That's right! The first race of the season is only one week away. The Tundra Time Trial is Feb. 22 on the Silver Comet. Hop on over to the Boneshakers Cycling Team website for all the scoop! The awards for the top 3 overall are beautiful glass SCULPTURES from Lillie Glass...yes, custom glass sculptures. They are breathtaking!

2-19-2004 Road Cycling Clinic Athletic Training Services will be offering a road cycling clinic March 5-7 in Madison, Georgia. Riders will learn bike handling skills, bike maintenance, and training to ride. (Trish's note: This seems geared more towards beginner/intermediate riders and possibly beginner racers.)  -My Coach Chris

Tundra TT The plans for the Tundra Time Trial hosted by Boneshakers Cycling Team are coming along! Pre-registration exceeds last year by quite a bit. Remember that you have until Friday to pre-register and avoid the $5 late charge. The weather forecasters (knock on wood) are calling for temps 57-60 degrees and partly cloudy. (Start times will not be posted on the website, sorry!--not my decision <grin>). Click here for all the details. 

Royce Smith Ride Postponed By the request of the family, the memorial ride for cyclist Royce Smith has been postponed. No further details are available. 

Tina Pic Wins in Australia Tina Pic won the Victoria Women's Criterium Series race in Australia on Feb. 15th. -Cyclingnews.com

Joey D'Antoni Interview The name Joey D'Antoni may be familiar to readers that race at the Dick Lane Velodrome. The Cycles De Oro rider from North Carolina has raced at several Grand Prixs at the track. -Daily Peloton

Tour De Georgia Route Details More details have been released about the Tour De Georgia route. 

 – Seven stages in six days, including one individual time trial and 11 King of the Mountain (KOM) competitions, will highlight the official route for this year’s Dodge Tour de Georgia, officials confirmed today. As the premier professional cycling stage race in the United States, the Tour will begin in Macon, Ga. on Tuesday, April 20 with Stage One and end in Alpharetta, Ga. on Sunday, April 25 with a Stage Seven grand finale. 

“This year we have modified the route to incorporate a challenging and safe course for the world’s finest professional cyclists, including an individual time trial and a series of epic climbs. We have also focused on creating exciting elements for spectators, while introducing new communities across Georgia as part of this great event,” said Stan Holm, executive director of the Dodge Tour de Georgia. ” We are anticipating a world-class roster of teams and close to a million spectators over the six days…truly, an unprecedented week of racing in North America.“ 

Sixteen professional cycling teams from around the world are being invited to participate in the Dodge Tour de Georgia, including teams from the United States, Spain, Italy and France. The United States Postal Service Pro-Cycling Team®, presented by Berry Floor, will compete in the Tour, led by five-time Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong. 

“It's a great event for the U.S. at just the right time, as the country and the sport has been in dire need a first caliber international stage race that the cycling community can rally around. Hopefully, year two can be another stepping stone in building the Tour de Georgia into America's greatest stage race,” said USPS Pro Cycling Team Director of Communications & Events Dan Osipow. 

The 2004 edition of the Dodge Tour de Georgia will begin in Macon with an 85-mile stage race. Last year a three-mile prologue was held for Stage One, which is a traditional European-style format held the opening day of a multi-day race. Stage One of this year’s Dodge Tour de Georgia will begin and end in Macon, taking the riders east to Georgia's Antebellum Capitol, Milledgeville. Macon hosted the second stage in 2003. 

Stage Two will depart Wednesday from Thomaston, Ga., located about 30 miles west of Macon in Upson County. This stage will cover nearly 115 miles, taking the peloton to Columbus, Ga., with the first two KOM climbs in the Callaway Gardens/Pine Mountain area. Columbus was a finish city last year. 

An epic double-stage will be held on Thursday, April 22. In the morning, Stage Three will begin in Carrollton and end in Rome, which also hosted the Tour last year. Later that afternoon, Stage Four will feature a 21-mile individual time trial from Rome. 

Stage Five will depart from Dalton on Friday, April 23, and will include five KOM climbs en route to the finish in Dahlonega, site of America's first major Gold Rush in 1828. The rush in 2004 will be from spectators vying to enjoy the excitement from a variety of exciting vantage points in the Southern Appalachians, as the peloton navigates the famous climbs of the “Triple Gap” route used by local cyclists (Neal’s, Wolfpen and Woody gaps). This stage is one of the longest, with 128 miles to cover. 

The 2004 Tour Stage Six focuses on new territory with a departure from Athens, Ga., which will assist the city in celebrating the 25th anniversary of its famous Twilight Criterium, a weekend of bicycle races and music. The Dodge Tour de Georgia will head back north from Athens to Hiawassee/Young Harris on April 24, another 128-mile stage. There are two KOM climbs on Saturday, one on the seven-mile assault up the legendary Hogpen Gap. A mountaintop finish on Brasstown Bald Mountain takes competitors to the highest spot in Georgia, 4,783 feet. 

Sunday, April 25, Stage Seven will begin in the foothills of the mountains in Dawsonville, the home of NASCAR driver and Dodge icon Bill Elliott. The race will continue south and finish with a four-mile circuit Grand Finale on the streets of Alpharetta, Ga. At the conclusion of the stage, awards will be presented for four jersey categories, including Dodge Overall Leader, and the best team. 

"USA Cycling is thrilled that the Tour de Georgia is returning for another year. As the highest ranked stage race on North American soil, the competitive racing and star-studded field of competitors will showcase America's top cycling talent in a world-class event against some of the planet's best athletes," said Gerard Bisceglia, Chief Executive Officer"

2-20-2004 Tour De Georgia Website "The official Dodge Tour de Georgia website, www.dodgetourdegeorgia.com, will be refreshed by February 23rd. The website willl be updated with more information for tourists who want to travel around Georgia following the Tour. For hotel accomodations, local attractions and other activities our Host Cities' Convention and Visitors Bureau websites will be listed. Additional information for visitors is available at: www.georgia.org or 1.800.VISITGA An announcement about all the domestic and international teams who will be participating in the 2004 Dodge Tour de Georgia will soon be released."

Ride Reviews Curious to know what the ride you want to try is like? The Southern Bicycle League now has ride reviews on their web page. -Southern Bicycle League

Nalley Historic Roswell Crit News "ROSWELL, GA (February 19, 2004) - A schedule of events has been set for the 3rd annual Nalley Historic Roswell Criterium. On Sunday, May 2, 2004 one of the largest one-day races in the Southeast will return to the historic district of Roswell. The Nalley Historic Roswell Criterium will stage six elite races for over 400 elite road cyclists, vying for close to $20,000 in cash and prizes. It will also host two amateur events and a community celebration with free activities geared to young children and local families."

"The action begins May 2nd with the first men's race at 11:40 a.m. The Women's Pro race will begin at 3:45 p.m., and Dahlonega resident Tina Mayolo-Pic, the two-time U.S. Women's National Criterium Champion, is expected to defend her Nalley title. The final race of the day, the Men's Pro 1 Race, will begin at 6:15 p.m. The field is expected to have the best pro teams from across North America, including Jittery Joe's, Prime Alliance, Navigators Insurance and the U.S. Postal Service Pro Cycling team, presented by Berry Floor."

"Following the pro women, a recreational race will be held for amateurs who do not have a USA Cycling race license, the Men's Citizens Race. Roswell Mayor Jere Wood participated, and finished sixth, last year. For the up and coming bicycle racers, the popular Shimano Youth Series/ RBC Centura Kids Races will return. Three different races for children ages six to 12 will take place at 5:25 p.m. The RBC Centura Kids Races are free for all children who participate in the Children's Bicycle Safety Rodeo, and receive medals and goodie bags after the races."

Event/Time Start/Time End/Duration: Men Cat 3,4/11:40 am/12:20 pm/40 minutes; Men Masters 40+/12:35/1:20/45 minutes; Men Masters 30+/1:35/2:25/50 minutes; Men Category 2,3/2:40/3:30/50 minutes; Women Pro 1,2,3/3:45/4:40/55 minutes; Citizen Race/4:55/5:10/15 minutes; Kids Races/5:25/6:00/30 minutes (3 races); Men Pro, 1/6:15 pm/7:35 pm/80 minutes

"From kids to parents to racers, everyone had a great time at last year's Nalley Historic Roswell Criterium," said Terry Michelitch, event organizer and member of Roswell Velo, Inc., the non-profit cycling club that handles logistics of the races. "This is our third annual event and we are definitely seeing results, from an increase in spectators, to an increase in children for the safety clinic, to a higher quality in the field of racers with elite-level athletes from all across the U.S."

Registration for the Men's Pro 1 race is $40. Other race fees are $30, except the Men's Citizens Race which is $20. Applications are available at www.NalleyHRC.com. Proceeds benefit the Roswell Recreations Association. 

Trish's Notes: I confirmed with Terry Michelitch that there will NOT be Cat. 5 Men or Cat. 4 Women's races this year. Terry said: "Unfortunately, we took a look at participation from the last few years and had to tighten things up a bit given time constraints and direction we are heading with the event, so yes, these events have been left off for 2004. We will re-evaluate after this year based on participation and feedback we receive." 

2-23-2004 THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! Thank you to everyone that raced in the Tundra Time Trial today! Mother Nature was kind to us and gave us a temperature of about 38 degrees around the start of racing and nearly 60 by the end. Approximately 155 riders competed. Quick results: Hammer Award for the fastest time overall: Creed Sewell, Atlanta, GA, Kalahari. Second Overall: Gregg App, Decatur, GA, Kalahari. Cat. 4 Women: 1st Erin Christman-App (Atlanta, GA; Kalahari). Cat. 1/2/3 Women: Holly Anderson (Peachtree City, GA; Bicycles Unlimited). Full results and photos will be available soon! (Check back in a few days.)

The Overall Winners

Brooks Omnium There is some info. up at Bikereg.com about the Brooks Spring Omnium March 20-21. The Road Race will be on Saturday, and the crit and time trial will be on Sunday -Bikereg.com

Joe Martin Stage Race Preliminary start lists and teams have been released for the Joe Martin 
Stage Race. Several Atlanta based teams are sending in their heavy hitters. -Daily Peloton

2-24-2004 Cyclist awarded $240,000 in damages "A cyclist in Durham, North Carolina, USA, has been awarded $240,000 damages as a result of a car accident. Thomas Sitzman, a 24 year old Duke University MD/Ph.D. student, was riding through downtown Hillsborough at 15 mph when a car turned left in front of him. He suffered complex fractures to the metacarpal bones in his left hand, and has developed early arthritis as a result. A jury in Orange County, NC, ruled in favour of Sitzman on February 20, 
returning a verdict of $240,000 for his personal injury and $950 for property damage. The case is thought to be the first North Carolina verdict for a bicyclist operating his bicycle as a motor vehicle." -Cyclingnews.com

Triplets of Belleville I went to see the animated film the Triplets of Belleville the other day 
with a fellow cycling friend. The plot centers on a young boy named "Champion" that is happiest when he is on his bicycle. His grandmother coaches him until one day he rides in the Tour De France. He is kidnapped and is later rescued by the Triplets of Belleville, a 1930's Jazz Trio. The animation was very quirky. They captured a cyclist's physique perfectly-oversized quads and calves and Tyler Hamilton-like upper body. 
One particularly funny scene has grandmother massaging Champion's legs with a handheld egg beater. They also portrayed the lifestyle of a bike racer quite well-ride, sleep, eat, ride, sleep eat. The film has very 
little dialogue, and most of it is in French. If you can understand what they are saying, it is hilarious and adds to the film. 

The first half of the movie flew by. Grandmother trained Champion, and he makes it into the Tour De France, where he is kidnapped. Grandmother and the dog follow the kidnappers but lose them when they reach "Belleville." The movie drags for a bit in the middle. Grandmother meets the triplets and after a long while finds where the mafia is hiding Champion. The rescue scenes are quite funny. Look for one doping scene in particular. The Triplets of Belleville is worth seeing. It is playing at the Madstone Theater in Sandy Springs (www.madstone.com). -Trish Albert 

Tundra TT Splits The Tundra Time Trial Splits are available. They are unofficial and are for your reference only. The results are being worked on and will be posted as soon as they are ready. Click HERE for the Time Trial Splits. 

2-25-2004 Tundra TT Results The Tundra TT Results are up at the Boneshakers Cycling Team web page. 

Greenville Series Just a reminder that there are no late fees for the Greenville Series, which starts this weekend. The first two races will take place at "Ole Faithful" at Donaldson Center in South Greenville. -Race Flyer

Windtrainer Class Proof that Basement Windtraining works....way to go Basement crew on your results at the Tundra TT!--You, too "Coach!" (and of course, Mrs. Coach! Coach's teammate, Mrs. BasementWindtrainingHostess, Mr. Host, and everyone else...)

2-27-2004 Blue Bikes "The Genesis Scuba women's team has a new bike sponsor for 2004 - and we don't just mean 'new to the team'. Blue Competition Cycles is a whole new company - so new in fact, that their website is still under construction. Based in Norcross, Georgia, Blue is about to introduce a range of carbon fiber and aluminium frames. Seen here are the RC4 Genesis Scuba team bikes, as ridden 
to victory in the criterium stage of last weekend's Valley of the Sun stage race by team member Laura Van Gilder. Available in six sixes from XS to XL, the RC4 features ten-speed Shimano Dura- Ace components, Aerus Composites C4 carbon bars, stems, and seatposts, Velomax Wheel Systems Ascent II wheels with Maxxis Columbiere tyres, and Speedplay pedals. A bike in size M is claimed to weigh 7.0kg with pedals and bottle cages." -Cyclingnews.com 

Pot Banned Pot Banned The World Anti Doping Agency has come out with its 2004 list of banned substances. A few surprises were in order. Caffeine and Pseudoephedrine have been taken off of the banned list. (Drink all the coffee you want and take Sudafed for your cold). Marijuana is banned for all sports under WADA rules but only for downhill mountain biking for UCI competition. -Velonews.com

Tundra TT Reports couple of the Free Flite/NARC guys have put up their Tundra TT Race 
Reports. -NARC website

More Tundra TT The Kalahari Boyz and Ladiez also have their report up. -Kalahari Website

OLN to Air Tour De Georgia Highlights Just weeks after Lance Armstrong and his U.S. Postal Service team announced they would compete in the Tour de Georgia, OLN executives said they would 
televise the event. OLN, which recently signed on as a Postal team sponsor, will broadcast a one- 
hour highlight show about a week after the race ends, said Peter Engleheart, OLN's vice president of programming and production. The cable network reaches about 58 million households. "The Tour has always been on our radar screen, but we got real excited about it when Lance confirmed that he would come back from Europe and compete," Engleheart said. The six-day stage race runs April 20 through April 25. Last year the race covered 613 miles and drew 250,000 spectators, organizers said. 
Dodge is again the title sponsor. (Bike Industry Retailer) -Daily Peloton

Travel Girl  Jenn Green models the new pink and blue Travel Girl uniform at last Sunday's Tundra Time Trial. She is also aboard their new blue Cannondales with 10 speed Dura-Ace. Travel Girl is an all women's 
team from Atlanta and is affiliated with the Roswell Velo Club. 

Travel Girl

Geelong Women's World Cup Tina Mayolo-Pic will race in this weekend's Women's World Cup Race in Geelong, Australia. She and fellow American Katie Mactier will be racing for the Jayco team. The Geelong WC is the first stop in the 9 race long Women's World Cup. Like the men, the ladies compete for points and for the overall honor as World Cup Champion. -Daily Peloton 

SE Cycling Updates I'm moving to a 3 times per week update format. My work hours have increased, race season is right around the corner, and I'm finding time difficult to update SE Cycling daily. I'm going to about a 3 times per week update. This will allow me to gather news & info. as well as write new material and get it up while not going crazy. 

Tour De Georgia Volunteers Want to Volunteer for the Tour De Georgia? The city of Alpharetta is looking for volunteers for the last day of the Tour De Georgia. Click here for the volunteer application. -AJC

2-28-2004 GREENVILLE ON FOR THIS WEEKEND!  From an email I received Friday: "Please consider this an official announcement from Hincapie Sports and Rich Hincapie regarding the racing this weekend in Greenville, SC. The racing scheduled for this weekend (February 28-29, 2004) will happen exactly as planned. We did NOT get all the snow that Charlotte, and some areas north of here, received. We have visited the Donaldson Center courses this morning, Friday, February 27, 2004, and the roads are already clear and ready to ride. The weather for Saturday and Sunday is expected to be sunny with temperatures in the 50-60 degree range. We are in really good shape to have a great weekend of racing. Please help spread the word that all racing this weekend will be held as scheduled on the flyer. We hope to see everyone here in Greenville for some great bicycle racing."

 2-29-2004 Jittery Joes What about those new colorful Jittery Joe's outfits?! Decide for yourself. -Velonews.com

GAP Article The Gainesville Times posted an article profiling local mountain bikers and the GAP Series this week. -Gainesville Times

Freeride Contest Atlanta's first Freeriding contest will be April 4 at the GA International Horse Park. "Huge Jumps, Northshore Bridges, and Technical Stunts." -More Than Descent 

No SE Racing Calendar Ok, there is still NO SE USCF calendar. I'm getting tired of it just like you guys! (Two weeks was up a month ago guys! We are waiting for it!)