I am still trying to wrap my mind around the fact that when you show up to “local races” in California, you are racing alongside some of the top women cyclists in the US and World. Snelling RR proved to be no different. Right from the gun I realized that it was going to be essential to keep myself protected from the wind, once the pace started to pick up with Giana and High Road setting a fast tempo, the entire field strung out single file while everyone jostled for a wheel making futile attempts to stay out of the wind. After the quick tempo was set on the first lap, attacks began on the second lap. I saw Giana counter an attack on a rolling section right before the course took a turn back into the wind. A gap was quickly established by the attackers, and Giana was up the road with about 5 other women: 2 of the women were High Road. I knew that we need more PROMAN representation in the break, so I reacted and bridged up to the break. Once I was on, Giana dropped off because she knew if she was in a break High Road wouldn't let it go, but she said it was a good "gamble" to leave me in the break with Kim Anderson (High Road) and Emilia Fahlin (High Road), Rushlee Buchannan (Tibco) and Olivia Dillon. So it was 5 of us for the rest of the race....kind of.
At the end of the 4th lap, my derailleur went into my spokes. Kim Anderson got behind me and started pushing me thinking it was a simple chain drop but unfortunately I had to get off my bike to get it out. With a big effort, I chased back onto the break. Shortly after I got back on, we went through the finish and then High Road and Tibco attacked. I should have been ready for the attack, but I reacted too late, and the three women had a gap that they held until the finish. Dillon also missed the attack but was a bit ahead of me. The lead break held us off, and Dillon and I did separate “individual time trials” for the entire last lap.
The last lap was very nerve-racking as the pace “car” (motorcycle) came up alongside me with about 6 miles to go and said there was a chase group coming in hard. He graciously added “I wouldn’t be surprised if they catch you.” Hahaha. Thanks.
With many fields racing at the same time, I couldn’t tell if the cyclists behind me were the chase group or men from other fields. I barely held the chase group off (consisting of 4 High Road women, Giana, and a Jane Despas). I crossed the finish line, and threw my chain into the easiest gearing which also threw my derailleur into the spokes, breaking it off (very sad). I am glad I waited to do this at the end of the race. I have decided from now on I am going to only use my 53-12, then I never have to worry about the derailleur and spokes having an encounter.
Thanks for reading - Megan
Sunday, February 24, 2008
SNELLING ROAD RACE
High Winds bring victory to High Roads Team at Snelling
Proman does battle in the trenches
February 23, 2008
Snelling, CA
The Snelling road race is the unofficial road race season opener for the Northern, CA race scene. It provides an early look at the riders and teams who will be contending for victories in the upcoming NRC (Nationally ranked races) and frequently has fields with the depth and names of the NRC races.
This year was no different as nearly every field closed at over 100 riders. The women’s 1,2 race had an outstanding showing with 80 or so contestants. With many of the major teams represented, including Team High Road (the #1 ranked team in the world), Tibco, Touchstone, Metromint, Team Vanderkitten, and the PROMAN Racing Team, the race promised to be hotly contested.
The course is a basic road race course with some small climbs and an uphill finish. The major factor of the race was the wind. With forecasted gusts of up to 70 mph, it was a team with strong teamwork and experienced riders that would see podium placings.
From the drop of the flag, the women’s race kicked off. PROMAN’s Giana Roberge and Team High Road’s Kim Anderson took control of the race and set a mean pace into the brutal winds. Roberge, directing from the bike, was clearly protecting and teaching her riders. The high pace and the winds had the peloton whittled down to about half its original size by the second lap. At that point, the attacks came hard, with High Road and PROMAN attacking and then countering every move.
Keeping her eyes on the group forming at the front, Roberge also was watching for her teammates behind her. The pace was brutal, the gutters providing the only protection available in the wind, and attacking once again, Roberge finally created a split that provided good enough odds that Roberge was happy with the potential outcome. Bridging the young PROMAN rider Megan Guarnier to the group, and ensuring there was some additional horse power with Olivia Dillon (Touchstone), Roberge sat up, creating the necessary split.
The group of five including Team High Road’s Anderson and Emilia Fahlin, Dillon, Guarnier and a young, talented Tibco rider quickly put time into the reforming chase group. Although the break wasn’t perfect due to the two High Road riders, the teams represented decided that that was about as good as it was going to get with so many strong High Road riders there. PROMAN liked their odds with Guarnier as did Tibco and Touchstone, and the front of the field was closed down fast.
Metromint and Vanderkitten had missed the break, and as the time gap opened, Metromint went to the front in an effort to chase it back. Amanda Eaken and Molly Van Houweling did an admirable job bringing back some time, but in the end the five at the front were working too well too allow for the two Metromint women to be successful.
After a lap the break was at two and a half minutes, and the attacks came again, furiously. The now 20 woman field soon became twelve and then a series of attacks from High Road brought it to about eight riders. With four high road riders heading up the road, Roberge attacked, up to the group and tried to go by a now two woman break of Mara Abbot (High Road) and Jane Despas (Vanderkitten). Clearing the two, Roberge had in her mind keeping that perhaps she and Abbot could work together and bridge to the front group.
Abbot came up to Roberge, bringing Despas. After a few turns, Roberge and Abbot were alone, and making good time. After a while, Abbot attacked Roberge attempting to bridge solo to the break. Looking behind her, Roberge saw three more high road riders approaching with Despas. Allowing them to catch her, and reform a group, Abbot saw the futility of spending another two laps solo into the wind and did the same.
Soon the chase group worked well, bringing the front group to almost a minute, but High Road and PROMAN’s Roberge were not interested in bringing it back entirely. In front, the main group began to shatter with PROMAN’s Guarnier facing mechanical challenges. Repeated attacks from High Road saw Anderson soloing in for a very well deserved win, followed by her teammate. Tibco saw a nice third place, with Dillon in fourth. Guarnier had to walk her bike across the line, with her derailleur having sheared off in the final meters of the race.
In the final sprint to the finish, it was High Road again, followed by Despas. Roberge, having had her hands full for the day and very satisfied with her young team’s effort, finished in ninth.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
VALLEY OF THE SUN STAGE RACE - WIN & PODIUM!
This was my second year competing in the VOS Stage Race, and I was eager to improve on last year's result (9th GC). Actually, this year I am eager to race everything after last season's time off! I chose to make the 12 hour drive, knowing that I would have the return 12 hours in my legs for the Women's T of C Criterium, because I am focusing more on stage races and time trialing this season, and because our Director, Giana Roberge, was also racing, albeit in a different category. I want to take every opportunity I can to race with her advice and strategies in my pocket. At one point, I had teammates coming down as well, but as the importance of the TOC crit sank in, they opted for fresh legs on Monday, and I don't blame them for that. So I made the drive with another friend racing in the men's category 4's.
Friday's TT was my priority. I have been working on the discipline, and while I still have so much to learn, I feel I am making huge strides. With the Sequoia TT as a target, and Nationals as a huge goal, I want to take every opportunity I have to compete in this discipline. Last year at VOS I had no equipment but a tailwind, so I was lulled into thinking I was doing well and ended up in 15th place. Note to self: if you have a tailwind, so does everyone else! You are never going hard enough that you can "relax" in a TT. Simple logic, I know, but we all know what our brains are capable of when racing! I know that now more than anything, and with my beautiful Orbea underneath me, my fit dialed by Giana, and the sheer, overwhelming desire to smash this thing, I headed off. Not exactly blazed off, due to the rain, the dirty road, and the stiff head/cross wind, but headed off nonetheless. Giana and I had talked at length about focus during a TT, and the use of mantras and imaging during racing. I am starting to learn that I do better when I am relaxed and enjoying myself. Don't get me wrong - I don't show enjoyment much on the outside, I show focus, but it's there! So, I am a little sheepish to admit, but my mantra during this TT was "wouldn't it be fun to call Scott and tell him you won?!?" Simple, a bit silly, but more than anything, TRUE. And let me tell you, it helped! I ended up taking 2nd, 58 seconds down. There are of course some excuses I could make, 20/20 hindsight, any other day, etc., etc. But what was important was that I was happy with my ride, the time was good, and I was in a good position given that I had no teammates.
The following 2 stages were difficult without a team to support me, but in the end racing alone was a tremendous learning experience. Having Giana there to guide me was invaluable, and I can't wait to have everyone working together this season. Rob was also there, and his support and positive outlook were such a comfort!
In the Stage 2 road race, I had to be conservative, which at times was so hard! As my teammates know, I much prefer to be aggressive. And so I learned a little bit more about patience. In the Stage 3 criterium, I had nothing to lose, so I worked on positioning, using my size and height, and riding like I had my sprinter in the field. And so I learned a little bit more about aggression. Overall, I learned how to race alone, defend a placing, work for a better one, and that I am back this year in full force!
After 3 days of racing we jumped in the car, took the 12 hour drive in one stride, and BANG! I found myself on the start line in Santa Rosa. I finally got to test myself against some of the best legs in the country, and got to do so on behalf of my stellar teammates! I pulled Giana aside before the race and asked her "What if I get out there and I'm flat? What if I can't do my job?" Her reply? "Too bad. You have to do it. This is what being a Professional is all about." Any guesses on what my mantra was during the race? :)
Friday's TT was my priority. I have been working on the discipline, and while I still have so much to learn, I feel I am making huge strides. With the Sequoia TT as a target, and Nationals as a huge goal, I want to take every opportunity I have to compete in this discipline. Last year at VOS I had no equipment but a tailwind, so I was lulled into thinking I was doing well and ended up in 15th place. Note to self: if you have a tailwind, so does everyone else! You are never going hard enough that you can "relax" in a TT. Simple logic, I know, but we all know what our brains are capable of when racing! I know that now more than anything, and with my beautiful Orbea underneath me, my fit dialed by Giana, and the sheer, overwhelming desire to smash this thing, I headed off. Not exactly blazed off, due to the rain, the dirty road, and the stiff head/cross wind, but headed off nonetheless. Giana and I had talked at length about focus during a TT, and the use of mantras and imaging during racing. I am starting to learn that I do better when I am relaxed and enjoying myself. Don't get me wrong - I don't show enjoyment much on the outside, I show focus, but it's there! So, I am a little sheepish to admit, but my mantra during this TT was "wouldn't it be fun to call Scott and tell him you won?!?" Simple, a bit silly, but more than anything, TRUE. And let me tell you, it helped! I ended up taking 2nd, 58 seconds down. There are of course some excuses I could make, 20/20 hindsight, any other day, etc., etc. But what was important was that I was happy with my ride, the time was good, and I was in a good position given that I had no teammates.
The following 2 stages were difficult without a team to support me, but in the end racing alone was a tremendous learning experience. Having Giana there to guide me was invaluable, and I can't wait to have everyone working together this season. Rob was also there, and his support and positive outlook were such a comfort!
In the Stage 2 road race, I had to be conservative, which at times was so hard! As my teammates know, I much prefer to be aggressive. And so I learned a little bit more about patience. In the Stage 3 criterium, I had nothing to lose, so I worked on positioning, using my size and height, and riding like I had my sprinter in the field. And so I learned a little bit more about aggression. Overall, I learned how to race alone, defend a placing, work for a better one, and that I am back this year in full force!
After 3 days of racing we jumped in the car, took the 12 hour drive in one stride, and BANG! I found myself on the start line in Santa Rosa. I finally got to test myself against some of the best legs in the country, and got to do so on behalf of my stellar teammates! I pulled Giana aside before the race and asked her "What if I get out there and I'm flat? What if I can't do my job?" Her reply? "Too bad. You have to do it. This is what being a Professional is all about." Any guesses on what my mantra was during the race? :)
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
VALLEY OF THE SUN STAGE RACE - WIN & PODIUM!
Valley of the not so Sunny
February 15 – 17, Phoenix, Arizona
Sunday’s weather was finally a day to write home about. Beautiful sunny skies greeted us as we pulled into downtown Phoenix for the final stage of the Valley of the Not so Sunny.
Quickly signing in, I hopped on my bike, pedaling through the neighborhoods, watching the city come to life. Actually I think many of the people I saw were just heading home, but no matter, any place has an aura of cleanliness and a desire to start anew at 7:30 am.
As I warmed up, my legs, back and upper body bitterly complained about the strain of yesterday’s 50 KM time trial. "Oh", I thought to myself, "this criterium will not be pretty". The course was a straight forward six corner 1.6 km loop with good pavement and wide streets.
Well, when you feel like garbage and you know that you don’t have anything in your legs, the best thing in my mind is to get to the front and ride just a little bit harder than everyone’s comfort level to keep attacks at a minimum. As we lined up that was my plan.
The officials began the women’s category 4 riders 2 minutes ahead of us. That really was all I needed. I simply cannot stand having a group ahead. But, having been begged by my racing companions not to attack from the gun, I mollified my need to catch the group ahead by setting a steady pace, taking clean lines and staying on the gear in order for my group to hang with me. I had a 13 minute gap on second so it was not my desire to ride away from the group.
After about 5 laps and 3 primes we came bearing down on the women’s group ahead. I let the three women left with me know I would be passing the group in the start finish area. That way the officials would get our numbers and it was a good wide area to pass. Coming out of the final corner into the stretch I stood on the gear, cleared the field and set myself up for the first corner. Looking back I saw I was alone.
With five laps to go on the one mile course I decided I might as well keep riding. Putting my head down I concentrated on keeping my breathing steady and ignoring my screaming legs. Finally the bell, and a lap later I was crossing the line, happy to have won the first race of the season.
After a 10 hour scamper home, we are unpacking and prepping the bikes for a trip into Santa Rosa where I will direct the Proman Women’s Team in the inaugural women’s Tour of California criterium. Rob will lead a big group on our welcome to Italy Race Camp Training Tour and I know both of us are very excited to see the men blast into Santa Rosa for the first stage of the Tour of California.
Thank you all for your support and cheering – it makes a huge difference and is much appreciated.
Looking for official results? Check out: http://www.wmrc.org/vos/2008/index.htm
GIANA
February 15 – 17, Phoenix, Arizona
Sunday’s weather was finally a day to write home about. Beautiful sunny skies greeted us as we pulled into downtown Phoenix for the final stage of the Valley of the Not so Sunny.
Quickly signing in, I hopped on my bike, pedaling through the neighborhoods, watching the city come to life. Actually I think many of the people I saw were just heading home, but no matter, any place has an aura of cleanliness and a desire to start anew at 7:30 am.
As I warmed up, my legs, back and upper body bitterly complained about the strain of yesterday’s 50 KM time trial. "Oh", I thought to myself, "this criterium will not be pretty". The course was a straight forward six corner 1.6 km loop with good pavement and wide streets.
Well, when you feel like garbage and you know that you don’t have anything in your legs, the best thing in my mind is to get to the front and ride just a little bit harder than everyone’s comfort level to keep attacks at a minimum. As we lined up that was my plan.
The officials began the women’s category 4 riders 2 minutes ahead of us. That really was all I needed. I simply cannot stand having a group ahead. But, having been begged by my racing companions not to attack from the gun, I mollified my need to catch the group ahead by setting a steady pace, taking clean lines and staying on the gear in order for my group to hang with me. I had a 13 minute gap on second so it was not my desire to ride away from the group.
After about 5 laps and 3 primes we came bearing down on the women’s group ahead. I let the three women left with me know I would be passing the group in the start finish area. That way the officials would get our numbers and it was a good wide area to pass. Coming out of the final corner into the stretch I stood on the gear, cleared the field and set myself up for the first corner. Looking back I saw I was alone.
With five laps to go on the one mile course I decided I might as well keep riding. Putting my head down I concentrated on keeping my breathing steady and ignoring my screaming legs. Finally the bell, and a lap later I was crossing the line, happy to have won the first race of the season.
After a 10 hour scamper home, we are unpacking and prepping the bikes for a trip into Santa Rosa where I will direct the Proman Women’s Team in the inaugural women’s Tour of California criterium. Rob will lead a big group on our welcome to Italy Race Camp Training Tour and I know both of us are very excited to see the men blast into Santa Rosa for the first stage of the Tour of California.
Thank you all for your support and cheering – it makes a huge difference and is much appreciated.
Looking for official results? Check out: http://www.wmrc.org/vos/2008/index.htm
GIANA
Friday, February 15, 2008
COPENHAGEN WORLD CUP #4
Copenhagen Posse:
Shelley Olds - PROMAN Racing
Kele Murdin - PROMAN Racing
Steve Pelaez - Philippines National Team
Mark Altimarano - Wrench Philippines and PROMAN Racing
Nicola Cranmer - Manager PROMAN Racing & Philippines National Team
The flight was painless except my routine of boarding, movie, dinner glass of wine, sleep was interrupted as the in flight entertainment system didn't work. i freaked out momentarily but got over it - had too!
Arrived in Copenhagen to cold bleak weather.
Denmark is extremely expensive. we are hoping to go into town at some point or at least get to the Carlsberg brewery. Mark A and Connie took the train into Copenhagen last night. While i attended the Managers meeting representing both PROMAN Racing and the Philippines National Team (Steve) Shelley joined me for that as i knew the UCI were going to discuss the Olympic qualification process. I was Surprised how many National Federations had questions regarding the process so late in the game. Some astonishing rules were revealed that left Shelley, Annette and I with our jaws dropped................more on that later.
This is the final World Cup of the year and I am really taking in the magnificence of it all. The first 3 world cups were pretty surreal learning UCI protocol, unfamiliar faces and unfamiliar places. This one feels different, very different. I am more relaxed, the riders are more relaxed. The faces are more familiar and the schedule is always the same. PROMAN Racing has made lots of new international friends. We approach these events with a happy and excited attitude and it makes for a fun time.
Shelley Olds - PROMAN Racing
Kele Murdin - PROMAN Racing
Steve Pelaez - Philippines National Team
Mark Altimarano - Wrench Philippines and PROMAN Racing
Nicola Cranmer - Manager PROMAN Racing & Philippines National Team
The flight was painless except my routine of boarding, movie, dinner glass of wine, sleep was interrupted as the in flight entertainment system didn't work. i freaked out momentarily but got over it - had too!
Arrived in Copenhagen to cold bleak weather.
Denmark is extremely expensive. we are hoping to go into town at some point or at least get to the Carlsberg brewery. Mark A and Connie took the train into Copenhagen last night. While i attended the Managers meeting representing both PROMAN Racing and the Philippines National Team (Steve) Shelley joined me for that as i knew the UCI were going to discuss the Olympic qualification process. I was Surprised how many National Federations had questions regarding the process so late in the game. Some astonishing rules were revealed that left Shelley, Annette and I with our jaws dropped................more on that later.
This is the final World Cup of the year and I am really taking in the magnificence of it all. The first 3 world cups were pretty surreal learning UCI protocol, unfamiliar faces and unfamiliar places. This one feels different, very different. I am more relaxed, the riders are more relaxed. The faces are more familiar and the schedule is always the same. PROMAN Racing has made lots of new international friends. We approach these events with a happy and excited attitude and it makes for a fun time.
Monday, February 11, 2008
CHERRY PIE - PODIUM
The season opener, Cherry Pie crit.
My job... get the team a pie!
This was my first race with Proman, my new awesome team for 2008. I was given the amazing gift of being the protected rider this race - a role that came with my first taste of what it feels like to want to perform really well for your team. In the past, I've usually raced solo - and I'm the only one I can disappoint. This would be a whole different story - I had 7 super strong teammates, all of whom could have gone for the win, but they would be sacrificing that opportunity for me. I couldn't let them down.
The race began quick from the gun - downhill into a sweeping right turn. On the first hill attacks were launched. Kate, Abby, Emily, Kelly, Megan and Kristin were at the front initiating attacks, closing down breaks, and in general making their presence known. Meanwhile, I was hovering about 15 to 20 riders back - a new place for a girl more comfortable trolling the front of a crit. Kristina was with me, making sure I wasn't working too hard, pulling me up a few riders when necessary, and in general, keeping me safe.
Fairly early in the race Kristin launched a huge attack and got a good gap on the field. She stayed off the front for a while and I knew that if anyone could stay away, she could. Unfortunately, the pack chased her down and swallowed her up again. Then it was Megan launching an attack for a prime and getting a good sized gap on the field. Again, she stayed away for a few laps - taking more primes on her little adventure.
With only a few laps to go, Megan got swallowed back up by the field, and it was time to organize for the field sprint. I could see the ladies in front were getting antsy - at one point I thought a break of 3 would get a gap on the field, but going into the hill the second to last lap, they were brought back. Megan, Abby and Kristin took over at the front keeping the pace high for the final lap. With 2 turns to go I found Kristin's wheel and stuck to it like glue. She took a sweet line on the inside of the final turn and pulled me up neck and neck with a string of women who I knew would be the contenders in the race... just as Kristin started to pull off, the winning sprint was launched by Tibco's Brooke Miller and quickly followed by Felicia Gomez of Aarons. It seemed super early to me, but I went with them knowing it was now or never. I thought maybe I'd be able to come around Felicia on the long uphill, but it wasn't to be. Both she and Brooke stayed together finishing one-two, and I finished 3rd - securing the coveted cherry pie. Megan - who fought her own way to the front of the field finished 4th and captured the Most Aggressive Racer title for the day. Awesome awesome team work.
I'm so proud to be a part of this team and can't wait for the year to come!
Virginia
My job... get the team a pie!
This was my first race with Proman, my new awesome team for 2008. I was given the amazing gift of being the protected rider this race - a role that came with my first taste of what it feels like to want to perform really well for your team. In the past, I've usually raced solo - and I'm the only one I can disappoint. This would be a whole different story - I had 7 super strong teammates, all of whom could have gone for the win, but they would be sacrificing that opportunity for me. I couldn't let them down.
The race began quick from the gun - downhill into a sweeping right turn. On the first hill attacks were launched. Kate, Abby, Emily, Kelly, Megan and Kristin were at the front initiating attacks, closing down breaks, and in general making their presence known. Meanwhile, I was hovering about 15 to 20 riders back - a new place for a girl more comfortable trolling the front of a crit. Kristina was with me, making sure I wasn't working too hard, pulling me up a few riders when necessary, and in general, keeping me safe.
Fairly early in the race Kristin launched a huge attack and got a good gap on the field. She stayed off the front for a while and I knew that if anyone could stay away, she could. Unfortunately, the pack chased her down and swallowed her up again. Then it was Megan launching an attack for a prime and getting a good sized gap on the field. Again, she stayed away for a few laps - taking more primes on her little adventure.
With only a few laps to go, Megan got swallowed back up by the field, and it was time to organize for the field sprint. I could see the ladies in front were getting antsy - at one point I thought a break of 3 would get a gap on the field, but going into the hill the second to last lap, they were brought back. Megan, Abby and Kristin took over at the front keeping the pace high for the final lap. With 2 turns to go I found Kristin's wheel and stuck to it like glue. She took a sweet line on the inside of the final turn and pulled me up neck and neck with a string of women who I knew would be the contenders in the race... just as Kristin started to pull off, the winning sprint was launched by Tibco's Brooke Miller and quickly followed by Felicia Gomez of Aarons. It seemed super early to me, but I went with them knowing it was now or never. I thought maybe I'd be able to come around Felicia on the long uphill, but it wasn't to be. Both she and Brooke stayed together finishing one-two, and I finished 3rd - securing the coveted cherry pie. Megan - who fought her own way to the front of the field finished 4th and captured the Most Aggressive Racer title for the day. Awesome awesome team work.
I'm so proud to be a part of this team and can't wait for the year to come!
Virginia
Sunday, February 10, 2008
CHERRY PIE - PODIUM!
Record numbers in Napa showcase a strong cycling community in the Norcal area
The Proman Women’s Team sees early season success
Independent Fabrication’s Dillion kicks off the season with a promising start
Cherry Pie Criterium
Napa, CA
February 10, 2008
Northern California welcomed the 2008 road racing season today in Napa today with the Cherry Pie Criterium. The day dawned bright and sunny promising warm temperatures for the afternoon. With record entries, the well organized race offered a challenging but fun course to begin the racing year.
First on the docket of races were the juniors; all age groups for both the girls and boys had impressive numbers, clearly indicating that road racing is growing in popularity with all ages. Juniors now have many teams offering tremendous support, including Dura-Ace equipped full carbon bikes, parents patiently holding towels and bottles, and coaches organizing the boys and girls with tactics and tips for making it through the race. It gives one hope to see how many juniors lined up to test themselves, partaking in a sport that is as challenging as it is rewarding.
Team Speed Queen and Independent Fabrication’s Rob Dillion’s race was early in the day yet 107 keen riders pulled up to the line, fired up and ready to rumble. The course was about 2 and a half minute effort each lap with a climb to the start finish and a 180 degree turn immediately following the line.
Dillion got a great start, and with a patient ride as a goal, stayed in the top ten throughout the race. After many attacks, a well organized Z-Team managed to get two riders off the front and working together the two finally cleared the field, opening a gap to 20 seconds. Eventual winner Nathan English finally powered away from his beleaguered teammate, staying clear to win the race as well as the Cycle Gladiator Most Aggressive Award.
The group entered the finish line groupo compacto with a fast rush for the finish line the field fanned out across the road. Jumping hard out of the final corner from fifth wheel back, Dillion powered his way to the line, claiming fourth in the bunch kick and fifth overall.
The Women’s 1, 2, 3 race also had a substantial field, with all regional teams and some national teams well represented. Locals Felicia Gomez (Aaron’s), Kathryn Curi (Webcor), and Brooke Miller (Tibco) all were present and all considered a threat for the win. The Proman Women’s Team fielded 8 riders, including newly signed Virginia Perkins and Megan Guarnier. Using Cherry Pie as a warm-up for the inaugural Women’s Tour of California Criterium on February 18th, Proman’s Director Sportif Giana Roberge had the women race aggressively from the gun.
The race got off to a brisk start with an early race attack by Proman’s Kristin Drumm. Drumm’s 10 second gap lingered for three laps before the Tibco Team with the help of Curi brought Drumm back to the field. Several primes kept the pace high, and despite many attempts to break free from the bunch, it was not until the youngest Proman Team rider Guarnier went for a prime and kept going that anyone was able to break completely free from the fierce pace. Clearing the field by 20 seconds, Guarnier stayed on the gear maintaining an optimistic gap. However, the organization and power of the local teams including the Metromint, Touchstone and Tibco proved to be too powerful for the solo Proman rider, and with three laps to go it was clear that a field sprint was inevitable.
From there, it was the Proman Team taking the reins and organizing a lead-out for Perkins. With the assistance of Drumm and Kristina Seley, Perkins was delivered in perfect placement for a go at the win. Making a run for the line was a very quick Miller from the front, followed closely by Gomez, with Perkins closing in fast. At the top of the hill, it was Miller handily taking the win, with Gomez in second, and Proman’s Perkins finishing in third. Proman’s Guarnier claimed fourth, as well as the Cycle Gladiator Most Aggressive Award.
Next up for both Dillion and the Proman Women’s Team is Valley of the Sun in Phoenix, Arizona. Action kicks off with an Individual Time Trial on February 15th
The Proman Women’s Team sees early season success
Independent Fabrication’s Dillion kicks off the season with a promising start
Cherry Pie Criterium
Napa, CA
February 10, 2008
Northern California welcomed the 2008 road racing season today in Napa today with the Cherry Pie Criterium. The day dawned bright and sunny promising warm temperatures for the afternoon. With record entries, the well organized race offered a challenging but fun course to begin the racing year.
First on the docket of races were the juniors; all age groups for both the girls and boys had impressive numbers, clearly indicating that road racing is growing in popularity with all ages. Juniors now have many teams offering tremendous support, including Dura-Ace equipped full carbon bikes, parents patiently holding towels and bottles, and coaches organizing the boys and girls with tactics and tips for making it through the race. It gives one hope to see how many juniors lined up to test themselves, partaking in a sport that is as challenging as it is rewarding.
Team Speed Queen and Independent Fabrication’s Rob Dillion’s race was early in the day yet 107 keen riders pulled up to the line, fired up and ready to rumble. The course was about 2 and a half minute effort each lap with a climb to the start finish and a 180 degree turn immediately following the line.
Dillion got a great start, and with a patient ride as a goal, stayed in the top ten throughout the race. After many attacks, a well organized Z-Team managed to get two riders off the front and working together the two finally cleared the field, opening a gap to 20 seconds. Eventual winner Nathan English finally powered away from his beleaguered teammate, staying clear to win the race as well as the Cycle Gladiator Most Aggressive Award.
The group entered the finish line groupo compacto with a fast rush for the finish line the field fanned out across the road. Jumping hard out of the final corner from fifth wheel back, Dillion powered his way to the line, claiming fourth in the bunch kick and fifth overall.
The Women’s 1, 2, 3 race also had a substantial field, with all regional teams and some national teams well represented. Locals Felicia Gomez (Aaron’s), Kathryn Curi (Webcor), and Brooke Miller (Tibco) all were present and all considered a threat for the win. The Proman Women’s Team fielded 8 riders, including newly signed Virginia Perkins and Megan Guarnier. Using Cherry Pie as a warm-up for the inaugural Women’s Tour of California Criterium on February 18th, Proman’s Director Sportif Giana Roberge had the women race aggressively from the gun.
The race got off to a brisk start with an early race attack by Proman’s Kristin Drumm. Drumm’s 10 second gap lingered for three laps before the Tibco Team with the help of Curi brought Drumm back to the field. Several primes kept the pace high, and despite many attempts to break free from the bunch, it was not until the youngest Proman Team rider Guarnier went for a prime and kept going that anyone was able to break completely free from the fierce pace. Clearing the field by 20 seconds, Guarnier stayed on the gear maintaining an optimistic gap. However, the organization and power of the local teams including the Metromint, Touchstone and Tibco proved to be too powerful for the solo Proman rider, and with three laps to go it was clear that a field sprint was inevitable.
From there, it was the Proman Team taking the reins and organizing a lead-out for Perkins. With the assistance of Drumm and Kristina Seley, Perkins was delivered in perfect placement for a go at the win. Making a run for the line was a very quick Miller from the front, followed closely by Gomez, with Perkins closing in fast. At the top of the hill, it was Miller handily taking the win, with Gomez in second, and Proman’s Perkins finishing in third. Proman’s Guarnier claimed fourth, as well as the Cycle Gladiator Most Aggressive Award.
Next up for both Dillion and the Proman Women’s Team is Valley of the Sun in Phoenix, Arizona. Action kicks off with an Individual Time Trial on February 15th
Thursday, January 24, 2008
LA TRACK WORLD CUP ROUND UP points race
Session 3 & 4:
Points Race Qualifier & Final:
Saturday morning was a new day with a whole new race. Everyone was back to square one and each rider had to again prove that they were worthy of riding the points race final. As always, nothing matters until you've made the final, so I raced the qualifier as if it was the final. The first 7 laps were mellow until the pace started to pick up for the sprint. I sat in for the first sprint and waited for the move that I thought would inevitably come after the sprint. When I didn't sense it coming, I went for it myself and quickly found myself off the front with about a 1/4 on the field and an indecisive chase. I was joined by a German rider who jumped off the front and bridged up to me, but I misjudged and totally boched the exchange when I moved up track to let her through. She blew by me and the gap between us was devastating, but I noticed the she was settling into a tempo and that I could close the gap with one quick hard effort. She and I were built very differently and I definitely benefited more from the draft than she did. When I bridged up to her I was wishing that she wouldn't realize I was there and let me sit on for a few laps. Unfortunately, she saw me right away and expected the exchange as soon as I got there. I was happy to work with her for the points. It was the ideal situation. We were able to hold off the field for the next sprint lap by working together. She got the five and I picked up three points for second.
We were quickly reabsorbed by the group and I sat on for the next 10 laps before the sprint. Meanwhile, a total of 4 girls lapped up, which meant only 4 spots remained from the field and it would be decided on points. I knew I had to score on the last sprint and that positioning would be a deciding factor in the final sprint. With about 3 laps to go before the sprint it slowed down and I saw an opportunity to instigate an attack to keep the pace high for the last few laps. A Russian rider jumped with me and went over the top of me to begin leading it out at full speed with 2 laps to go. I buried myself to stay on her wheel and all but one rider from the rest of the field were gapped off behind us. She lead me all the way to the line and only the Chinese girl was able to come around us. I was in a three-way tie for 8th in the final sprint and ended up getting into the final because of my 3rd place finish in the final sprint. I was 8th in the qualifier, but I was in the final and that's all that mattered.
The final was a little later that night. The crew took me home and I got a quick shower and a sandwich, then it was back to the track to start my warm up. Before I knew it, Rob was holding me on the blue band ready to push me off when the whistle blew. Again, the race started slow and the wind up began just before the sprint. I was patient in the beginning of the race, sitting in for the first couple of sprints. Unable to sit still in the back, I found myself off the front again and chasing 2 girls. I made it about half way and the other two girls gained a lap without me. A surge came from the field of about 5 very strong riders. I was in no man's land when that move came and I was hurting. I tried to move up track and wait for them to come by, but they came too fast, overtook me and then I was reabsorbed by the field.
I floated to the back of the field and nearly got popped off the back until a little lull and the Netherlands girl's wheel appeared before me. I was on and very happy to be. I sat in and recovered and was ready to wind it up before the 20 lap sprint points. On the back straight, a couple of girls got mixed up and started to crash down track in front of me. I saw it happening and moved all the way off the track onto the apron. The Cuban rider and myself were trying to dodge the crash and nearly made it, but we didn't. This was my first crash on the track and it was pretty crazy picking splinters out of my skin after a fall. I walked away with some bumps, bruises and burns. The cuban rider looked really banged up. We saw her at the hospital later that night and kept asking how she was doing. No one would tell us, but it sounded like she would be o.k.
It was a bummer not finishing the race, but I learned a great deal. I will be resting for a few days trying to recover and relax so that I can really put a big effort in to prepare for Denmark. I would like to thank everyone who has allowed me to train this winter and sacrificed their time to allow me to prepare for these world cups. I am living a dream, thanks to all the Hellyer folks and every member of the PROMAN Racing Team.
Thanks for reading... ~Shelley
* What Shelley neglected to add was that when we had driven back to the house after the qualifier, when it was time to leave I realized that i had left my keys in the car - locked, they were in there with her shoes and helmet. While a little panicked and thrown, Shelley had come prepared with a second helmet and shoes, she took the whole situation and moved forward with plan B. She returned to the track and picked up where she left off, regained focus and prepared for the task at hand - a true professional. She also didnt tell you that I had to pull splinters out of her body with tweezers, i knew i had to do it right away as they tend to work their way in or break off. I know it was painful but Shelley was brave and I am very proud of her for taking an adverse situation (keys in car) into her stride without barely flinching.! Nicola
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
LA TRACK WORLD CUP ROUND UP scratch race
UCI Track World Cup, Los Angeles 2007
The third of four rounds of World Cup action took place this weekend at the ADT Event Center in Carson, California. PROMAN Racing Team had five riders in many of the different disciplines of track racing; sprints, individual pursuits, scratch, and points race. This time around, we had all the support we could ever need with Tim Brennan, Rob Evans, Mark Altimirano, and Aussie Bob. As always, our manager Niki Cranmer, was the glue that held it all together.
Going into the first two races in Sydney and Beijing, I was nervous and overwhelmed as well as naive in my preparation. I walked away from the experience with a fierce desire growing inside me to compete again. When I first made the decision to compete in the World Cups, I set my focus on these L.A. races. I knew that traveling overseas would be tough the first time and that there would be a bit of a culture shock. Racing in your home country is something you learn to appreciate after you've raced internationally. Also, knowing that there were so many family and friends up in the stands watching and cheering inspired me to race that much harder.
Day 1: Scratch Race Qualifier and Scratch Race Final
In Sydney, I did not qualify for the scratch race final. In Beijing, I took a big chance and attacked off the front in the qualifier with 17 laps to go. I stayed off the front for the entire race and got caught by the entire field with 50 meters until the finish. It was devastating and I feared that the same thing would happen again if I ended up off the front in this race. However, I knew that I had to follow my instincts and race the race to my strengths, which could mean attacking and ending up off the front.
The 20 lap scratch race qualifier started and we rolled around for a few laps waiting for something to happen. With about 11 laps to go, a move went off the front with Lauren Franges of the U.S. and two other girls. Within a few more laps, they had rejoined the group and now 3 girls were up a lap and guaranteed a spot in the final. That meant only 5 spots remained for those hoping to advance to the final. I sensed a lull in the group as we were just about to be lapped and I jumped off the front in a desperate attempt to be forgotten. I kept looking back to make sure they weren't chasing and to be sure I wanted to commit to this move. At that moment, Rob yelled at me from the sideline as if it was the last race of our lives. "Put your head down and Go! Don't look back!"
Immediately I trusted him and put my full focus forward. So now I am committed and praying that the field will be disorganized and preoccupied with setting up the sprint. After having failed my first attempt at breaking away from the field, I was more determined than ever to make the move work. I had tasted failure and it wasn't something I was interested in tasting again. With 3 to go, I started to believe that I had snuck away and earned my spot in the final. The field hesitated and delayed it's wind-up until 2 to go and I was able to cruise across the line in 4th. It was an amazing feeling to overcome my fear and qualify for the final.
The Scratch Final was about 2.5 hours later that night. That left just enough time to go to Panera for a quick bite with the "crew." We arrived back at the track and I started warming myself up again for the race. It wasn't long until we were up on the track again and Rob was holding me on the blue waiting for the whistle to start the race. The first couple of laps were slow and after about 15 laps a Russian rider went off the front. I attempted to keep the pace high in the field and instigate a chase, but no one was committed to helping bring the solo rider back. She dangled on the back of the group for a while and struggled to latch back on, but eventually she did. Shortly after her move, three riders attacked off the front while I found myself in the second half of the field in a group that was about to be gapped off from the front. I was worried that I was going to lose the front of the race and decided to jump around the gap, but my effort was in vain because shortly after I jumped across, the whole group came back together.
Now there were 4 girls that lapped the field and I found myself on the front of the group with 6 laps to go. When I moved up track to rotate off the front, I ended up moving way too far back in the field and then the pace increased and I got caught up in a little dicy-ness between turn 1 and 2 just after the laps read 3 to go. Coming around turn four with 2 to go I found momentum and good acceleration in my legs and made a big effort to move up to the front. Now with 1 to go and I am in the top 10. I came across the line just behind Marianne Vos, (I even tried to throw my bike to pick her off), and finished in 13th overall because 4 girls behind me were the girls that lapped the field. It was a fun race and I took a lot of good lessons away from the experience.
I really have to thank Niki, Tim, and Rob so much for taking such good care of me before, during, and after every race. Thanks to Niki and Tim for making sure I was hydrated with water and recovery drink. Thanks to Tim and Rob for taking care of my bikes and getting them weighed and measured, etc. I never even thought twice about my bikes being ready. Everything ran so smoothly. It was a pleasure being with the entire PROMAN team this weekend. Good times, Great memories....
More to come on the Points Race.....
The third of four rounds of World Cup action took place this weekend at the ADT Event Center in Carson, California. PROMAN Racing Team had five riders in many of the different disciplines of track racing; sprints, individual pursuits, scratch, and points race. This time around, we had all the support we could ever need with Tim Brennan, Rob Evans, Mark Altimirano, and Aussie Bob. As always, our manager Niki Cranmer, was the glue that held it all together.
Going into the first two races in Sydney and Beijing, I was nervous and overwhelmed as well as naive in my preparation. I walked away from the experience with a fierce desire growing inside me to compete again. When I first made the decision to compete in the World Cups, I set my focus on these L.A. races. I knew that traveling overseas would be tough the first time and that there would be a bit of a culture shock. Racing in your home country is something you learn to appreciate after you've raced internationally. Also, knowing that there were so many family and friends up in the stands watching and cheering inspired me to race that much harder.
Day 1: Scratch Race Qualifier and Scratch Race Final
In Sydney, I did not qualify for the scratch race final. In Beijing, I took a big chance and attacked off the front in the qualifier with 17 laps to go. I stayed off the front for the entire race and got caught by the entire field with 50 meters until the finish. It was devastating and I feared that the same thing would happen again if I ended up off the front in this race. However, I knew that I had to follow my instincts and race the race to my strengths, which could mean attacking and ending up off the front.
The 20 lap scratch race qualifier started and we rolled around for a few laps waiting for something to happen. With about 11 laps to go, a move went off the front with Lauren Franges of the U.S. and two other girls. Within a few more laps, they had rejoined the group and now 3 girls were up a lap and guaranteed a spot in the final. That meant only 5 spots remained for those hoping to advance to the final. I sensed a lull in the group as we were just about to be lapped and I jumped off the front in a desperate attempt to be forgotten. I kept looking back to make sure they weren't chasing and to be sure I wanted to commit to this move. At that moment, Rob yelled at me from the sideline as if it was the last race of our lives. "Put your head down and Go! Don't look back!"
Immediately I trusted him and put my full focus forward. So now I am committed and praying that the field will be disorganized and preoccupied with setting up the sprint. After having failed my first attempt at breaking away from the field, I was more determined than ever to make the move work. I had tasted failure and it wasn't something I was interested in tasting again. With 3 to go, I started to believe that I had snuck away and earned my spot in the final. The field hesitated and delayed it's wind-up until 2 to go and I was able to cruise across the line in 4th. It was an amazing feeling to overcome my fear and qualify for the final.
The Scratch Final was about 2.5 hours later that night. That left just enough time to go to Panera for a quick bite with the "crew." We arrived back at the track and I started warming myself up again for the race. It wasn't long until we were up on the track again and Rob was holding me on the blue waiting for the whistle to start the race. The first couple of laps were slow and after about 15 laps a Russian rider went off the front. I attempted to keep the pace high in the field and instigate a chase, but no one was committed to helping bring the solo rider back. She dangled on the back of the group for a while and struggled to latch back on, but eventually she did. Shortly after her move, three riders attacked off the front while I found myself in the second half of the field in a group that was about to be gapped off from the front. I was worried that I was going to lose the front of the race and decided to jump around the gap, but my effort was in vain because shortly after I jumped across, the whole group came back together.
Now there were 4 girls that lapped the field and I found myself on the front of the group with 6 laps to go. When I moved up track to rotate off the front, I ended up moving way too far back in the field and then the pace increased and I got caught up in a little dicy-ness between turn 1 and 2 just after the laps read 3 to go. Coming around turn four with 2 to go I found momentum and good acceleration in my legs and made a big effort to move up to the front. Now with 1 to go and I am in the top 10. I came across the line just behind Marianne Vos, (I even tried to throw my bike to pick her off), and finished in 13th overall because 4 girls behind me were the girls that lapped the field. It was a fun race and I took a lot of good lessons away from the experience.
I really have to thank Niki, Tim, and Rob so much for taking such good care of me before, during, and after every race. Thanks to Niki and Tim for making sure I was hydrated with water and recovery drink. Thanks to Tim and Rob for taking care of my bikes and getting them weighed and measured, etc. I never even thought twice about my bikes being ready. Everything ran so smoothly. It was a pleasure being with the entire PROMAN team this weekend. Good times, Great memories....
More to come on the Points Race.....
Thursday, January 17, 2008
RACHELS CROSS WORLD TALES
Tuesday Jan 15
The boys got out early because of the forcasted rain. I thought I should do sprints, but also wanted to do the group ride. So I left at 11:20 to get 1.5 hrs in before the group ride, and to try to get some time in before it started raining. It sprinkled a bit and waited till just before 1pm (the start of the group ride) to really start raining. I met up with the group ride at the church in Begjinisjik (probably misspelled) at 1pm. There were only 10 riders (including me.) Alex, the brit from the Teilt-Winge house was there along with Mike Garrigan the Canadian National Champ. The roads were wet now and I was getting hosed in the face from the spray and the side wind... NOT pleasant!
I decided to turn around and ride home at 1:40. I figured 20 min home + 2:10 so far = 2.5... that's fine. But somehow it took me 40 minutes, or something, to get home with missing turns and such... well I got 3 hrs in and was absolutely forzen by the time I got home. I hopped in the bath immediately and thawed myself out. Then had a huge lunch and read for the afternoon. Joscelin cooked her famous curry for dinner, then we all watched the Treviso cx World Cup from November 2007. Total road race with a couple of steep hills in the middle, bunch sprints for every category. I hope the race is muddy for us in a couple of weeks... supposedly it has been raining...
Wednesday January 16
Headed out with the boys at 10 and rode with them for 1hr. The sun was poking through the clouds, so I got a better sense for the lay of the land. We went out through Westerlo and looped around and back. Then I headed past the house (towards Booischot) and right on the bike path (which is an old railroad bed) towards the canals north or east, I still can't figure that out yet... the sun hasn't been out enough for me to totally get my directional bearings. I did 6x30+30 intervals. These are 30 sec standing start sprint over geared, wind it up and sprint for 30sec then maintain effort seated for another 30 sec, with 3-4 min recovery. They are hard, hard enough to make you feel naseous. I then headed back towards home on the path and kept riding till I had 2.5 total.
Came home, ate a lunch of toasted bread with butter, honey, avocado and an egg omelet on it. I then headed out to the bakery in search of rogge brood for Joscelin (a special dark very heavy bread that Jos likes.) I went to my favorite bakery in town and they were out. So I went to the other bakery in town, the one across from the church and a lady who walked in the door while I was putting the kickstand down on the town bike got the last loaf of this rogge bread! So I went back to the first bakery and got another kind that was similar, but lighter. Then I rode the town bike (this one with a higher seat than the last time I went out on a borrowed town bike) to the butcher in search of ground turkey. They only ave ground cow, ground baby cow, and ground pork. So I choose the pork. After all it IS the 'other white meat' right? With all my purchases strapped onto the rack of the town bike, I rode home and made salad dressing. Jos was headed to Blauberg so I went with her for something to do and in hopes of seeing new people! We walked in the door to a welcome greeting from Greg Keller, Brandon Dwight (from Boulder, Co.) and Kurt from the east coast. They were very surprised to see me walk in the door with Joscelin! Greg's blog is "Mud and Cowbells" if you are interested in hearing other stories of 'cross in Belgium. They are actually going out and doing other fun things while in Belgium, un like myself. I am being a good bike racer and sleeping, eating, training, eating, resting and eating in that order. So we hung out there for a while, Jos got some house things sorted out, I picked up some broccoli at the market next door and we headed home. I started cooking as soon as we got home. I made salad with sliced carrots and homemade vinaigrette, gnocchi with pesto and a red sauce with ground pork, onions and broccoli. We ate dinner early, and I made a point of heading up to bed around 8pm to read for a while and turn out the light at 9:30
Thursday January 17
Got up at 8 this morning after a great 10hrs of sleep and got on the computer early to catch up on emails. The for-cast called for rain at 12 so I planned on being on my bike by 10. After a 30 min yoga/sit ups session I headed out the door at 10. I forgot the map today... the first day out with out my security blanket. It's not like I use the map to find what road I am on and then find my way home, but I use it to see the names of towns to head for. The names here are so foreign that it's hard to remember the ones in a 10k circumference of Westmeerbeek, the ones that will get you near enough to Westmeerbeek to have a sign for it.
I headed down the rode to the right past Tim and Jos's house and in 5 minutes ran into the Boulder guys from the Blauberg house! They were just out for a 1hr spin (they are racing on Saturday at the Masters World Championships in Molle.) So they flipped around and I rode to Blauberg with them on the route 86/87 that they had been following. You can just follow these little bike routes all over Belgium. It's great, tiny little roads, dirt roads, a few little trail cuts, really sweet loops! I left them in Blauberg, turned around and came back on the same route. I then headed towards Herentals, then towards Begjinidijkt, but ended up in Booischot. I followed a route on the way back and popped onto the bike path (old railway.) I guessed I should not head towards Aarschot, but the other way towards Herentals, then a bit down the path I saw a little brick building that I recognized from yesterday and I knew I needed to head the other way. I flipped around and headed home. Got back just after noon, beat out the rain, showered, and ate my lunch of toast and eggs.
Then watched the second half of "Catch Me If You Can" on Shaun's computer with the boys then put in some computer time researching my competition on the UCI website. From just one world cup result, I have moved up in the world ranking from 43rd to 30th! I might be able to move into the 20's if I have a good race in Hoogerheide this weekend! Shaun cooked tonight. We had pasta, peas, and some ham product that looked like prosciutto that he chopped up, cooked, and mixed in. It turned out quite well. That's all for now, thanks for reading! -Rachel
Monday, January 14, 2008
CYCLOCROSS WORLD CUP - LIEVIN, FRANCE Saturday
Saturday January 12
Woke up a bit earlier at 8:30 and ate breakfast with the boys, David (Canadian
Junior) and Shaun (Canadian U-23) then caught up on emails to Sam, packed, and worked on my 'B' bikes shifting. This was my first time working on Sram shifting as Tim has taken care of my bikes this whole season. Me and the boys then loaded Joscelin's car up, with 6 bikes on top and the trunk full of wheels and bags.
Woke up a bit earlier at 8:30 and ate breakfast with the boys, David (Canadian
Junior) and Shaun (Canadian U-23) then caught up on emails to Sam, packed, and worked on my 'B' bikes shifting. This was my first time working on Sram shifting as Tim has taken care of my bikes this whole season. Me and the boys then loaded Joscelin's car up, with 6 bikes on top and the trunk full of wheels and bags.
Osmond (elite rider from Canada staying at the Blauwberg house) met us at 12
noon and we headed out. I rode with Osmond (who proved to be jolly good company)
and the boys rode with Jos. We steadily drove into nicer weather and had quite a
nice, clear, sunny patch for a bit. We got to the 'Formula One' hotel in Lievin
at around 2pm, checked in and unloaded the car, then dressed and rode to the
race course.
People had told
me that the course was a hilly course and it
pretty much was just as described. Long flat paved start, left turn onto dirt,
left turn onto/down a short grassy hill, then sweeping muddy right turn to three
stair stepped plateaus. Then it drops back down and winds gradually back uphill
onto the top of the major hillside that it goes straight down, u-turns uphill,
straight back down, up again and finally down and around through the pits for
the first time. After going through the pit the course goes uphill more
gradually and crosses the top to drop down again, and then again and through a
boggy turn then up a steep pitch, down again and flat grassy around about to the
pit for the second time then soft grass to a slippery clay 5ft climb to the
paved finish stretch. I couldn't ride the steep u-turn uphills, but when riding
a few laps with Shaun (U-23) I found that I could run them at just about the
same speed as him riding them. I rode the first few laps with Wendy Simms, how
nice it was to find a friend over here! She was looking strong, she had no
problem riding the steep uphills that I was running! I think I did about 5
laps. The course is pretty hard, the hills and the soft boggy grass will prove
to favor the powerful riders.
me that the course was a hilly course and it
pretty much was just as described. Long flat paved start, left turn onto dirt,
left turn onto/down a short grassy hill, then sweeping muddy right turn to three
stair stepped plateaus. Then it drops back down and winds gradually back uphill
onto the top of the major hillside that it goes straight down, u-turns uphill,
straight back down, up again and finally down and around through the pits for
the first time. After going through the pit the course goes uphill more
gradually and crosses the top to drop down again, and then again and through a
boggy turn then up a steep pitch, down again and flat grassy around about to the
pit for the second time then soft grass to a slippery clay 5ft climb to the
paved finish stretch. I couldn't ride the steep u-turn uphills, but when riding
a few laps with Shaun (U-23) I found that I could run them at just about the
same speed as him riding them. I rode the first few laps with Wendy Simms, how
nice it was to find a friend over here! She was looking strong, she had no
problem riding the steep uphills that I was running! I think I did about 5
laps. The course is pretty hard, the hills and the soft boggy grass will prove
to favor the powerful riders.
After riding the course we (Shaun, David, and Osmond) rode around looking for
Joscelin and a pressure washer in the rapidly approaching dusk. I got to
practice my French a bit in our search, but it proved fruitless. It turned out
we could pick up our numbers, so we did, and ended up washing our bikes out of
buckets in the parking lot. We then rode back to the hotel, showered, dressed
and drove back to the managers meeting. We got parking passes, pit passes,mechanic passes, and Jos and I sat in the manager meeting which was all in
French. I didn't understand most of it (they talk too fast) and they spent a lot
of time talking about doping control. They gave out pit slots, told us start
times and race duration and handed out start call up sheets. I will be called
up about 6 from last. Meeting finished, we all got back in the car and went in
search of food. There wasn't much around, a lot of flower shops and bars, but
no quaint little French restaurant. We found a 'Buffalo Grill' which everyone
seemed excited about (except me.) I was pretty hungry and ended up having a
Buffalo burger and fries, which was fine, but a far cry from most pre race meals
I have. The place was trying to be a Texas/American joint with cowboy/country
music playing (American.) We ate much faster than all the French people there
and returned to the Formula One, which is really quite a dreary place, and
settled in for the night.
Race report to come soon, thanks for reading. Rachel
.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
RACHEL'S WORLD CUP ADVENTURE - Part 2
So I just got back from what ended up being a 3hr ride! Tim Harris rode to the start of the ride with me. It started in a parking lot across from a church in the town of Beginjendijk. Apparently Sven Nijs and Niels Albert live in this town and sometimes come out on this ride... they were there last Tuesday. Alex (a British rider who lives at the same house as Helen Wyman) rolled up just before the start, so I rode with him for most of the ride. We rolled out of town when the bell at the church tolled 1pm.
They have all these rules in Belgium about how things work. Cyclists must ride in the "bike lanes" which sometimes look like what we in the US would call "sidewalks" and what they call in England "pavement." If there is more than 15 people in a group then the cyclists can ride in the roadway two by two. If more than 50 people show up for a group ride the groups must be split up so there is no more than 50 per group. Apparently sometimes there are quite a bunch of groups. We were two groups today. So the loop is 75K at a nice steady pace, except for the accelerations out of every turn and up the few small hills. I was very grateful to Tim for printing a map of the route for me. for after the ride I needed to find my way back home. No one was left who could understand me, so I basically just kept going straight till I came to an intersection. You see the way it works here is you decide where to go at every intersection, you dont follow roads, you look for signs to towns. Then at the next town you look for the sign pointing to the next nearest town to where you want to go. Luckily for me, the ride route basically went through Westemeerbeek, the town were Tim and Joscelin live, and were I am staying. Also lucky for me Tim was in his ready to head out to the airport to pick up a some people and he honked his horn as I rode past. I had forgotten to take a good look at the house when we left and I would have ridden right past! So I didn't get lost, which really is pretty amazing.
The ride was pretty mellow, and my legs actually felt pretty good! We'll see how they feel this weekend in Lievin at the World Cup. I hope I still have some speed. So that's it for now, it's pretty quiet here, no one around. It just started sprinkling at the end of the ride, and it's quite grey out now. Tim Harris is an ex euro pro. He raced on Festina in the 90's! How about that! ~ Thanks for reading!
They have all these rules in Belgium about how things work. Cyclists must ride in the "bike lanes" which sometimes look like what we in the US would call "sidewalks" and what they call in England "pavement." If there is more than 15 people in a group then the cyclists can ride in the roadway two by two. If more than 50 people show up for a group ride the groups must be split up so there is no more than 50 per group. Apparently sometimes there are quite a bunch of groups. We were two groups today. So the loop is 75K at a nice steady pace, except for the accelerations out of every turn and up the few small hills. I was very grateful to Tim for printing a map of the route for me. for after the ride I needed to find my way back home. No one was left who could understand me, so I basically just kept going straight till I came to an intersection. You see the way it works here is you decide where to go at every intersection, you dont follow roads, you look for signs to towns. Then at the next town you look for the sign pointing to the next nearest town to where you want to go. Luckily for me, the ride route basically went through Westemeerbeek, the town were Tim and Joscelin live, and were I am staying. Also lucky for me Tim was in his ready to head out to the airport to pick up a some people and he honked his horn as I rode past. I had forgotten to take a good look at the house when we left and I would have ridden right past! So I didn't get lost, which really is pretty amazing.
The ride was pretty mellow, and my legs actually felt pretty good! We'll see how they feel this weekend in Lievin at the World Cup. I hope I still have some speed. So that's it for now, it's pretty quiet here, no one around. It just started sprinkling at the end of the ride, and it's quite grey out now. Tim Harris is an ex euro pro. He raced on Festina in the 90's! How about that! ~ Thanks for reading!
RACHEL'S WORLD CUP ADVENTURE
The flight was... long. I had an isle seat, didn't sleep much, maybe 2-3 hrs, wish I had a neck pillow. I watched a couple of movies and tried to sleep. We left SFO one hour late, but made up one hour in the air and got to London right on time. I was worried about making the connection while I was standing in another line (that wasn't moving) to get my boarding pass, but thankfully a BMI agent sent me and a South African mom and her two kids to the gate to get our boarding passes there.
Well we arrived and no one was around. Turns out we were just early... imagine that! The mom had such a cutie of a 3.5 yr old, he only spoke Flemmish. It was nice chatting with her and flirting with her kids. We spotted our luggage being loaded onto the plane so that was comforting. When I went through my last costoms check to get out on the other side, I chatted with the man who stamped my pasport briefly and told him that I was here for the cross world cups and World Championships and he said "ah in Treviso" it turns out he is a cross fan! That was cool! He sent me off with a smile on both of our faces and a welcome feel in my heart!
I spotted Josceline's car parked down a ways and we hit it off immediately. She is a very cool woman. She took me to the house that Helen Wyman lives at (this was a different house than the one I thought I would be in, in Blauberg.) As soon as I met Helene and Gabby Day, they said "we thought you were Canadian, and a masters racer." Turns out there was a bit of a mis communication. As soon as I had my bikes built up and everyting un packed, Josceline said I would be moving to a different house... her own house, since the Blauberg house was full of Canadian masters racers. So I headed out for a 1.5 hr ride, and a quick trip to the grocery store.
Then Tim Harris (her husband) picked me up and we headed to their house. See they thought that I could just get a ride to the Lievin race with Helen and crew, but they didn't have room for me. Now I will get a ride there with Josceline and a junior, some u-23's and some elites. We will head over there the day before and stay at a hotel in Lievin. This way Josceline can go to the managers mtg for all of us and we can get our numbers the day before (which is required.) They both told me of a group ride that goes out on Thursday and Tuesday, Tim said this would be a good ride for me to go on, but they are out of the house now, and I have no idea where the ride goes from or what time. (bummer, I hope it is later and I can make it, it would be good for me to go a bit harder today.) I slept very well last night, I was SO tired yesterday, by 6pm I was nodding my head sitting up watching the recording of the Belgian National cross races. I couldn't finish it I was just too tired. I had had some bread and cheese that I got at the store, and decided that was enough. I had, after all, been eating the whole trip about every 4 hrs and my system was all confused! Josceline got me all squared away with a bath, I was freezing, I think just from being SO tired. I filled up a hot water bottle with hot water and read one page from my book and fell fast asleep. I woke up at 4am took a pee and read a couple more pages, ate some mango slices, and took a few valerian capsules. Fell asleep again and was deep in sleep stupor when my alarm went off at 8am. I slept untill 9:30 when I made myself get up.
Stumbling around to open the window covers... got some cereal and tea and found the internet! That's pretty much it up to date, I couldn't find any maple syrup in the grocery, but Josceline has some in her cupboard so there is some to be had... unless someone brought it as a gift... Can you bring some if I can't find any here? Maybe I can find some in France this weekend. Now I have to figure out how this town is layed out, it's a bit bigger than the tiney town of the first place. I guess I'll go out and walk around a bit. It's quite grey out now... It was beautiful and sunny in London when I landed, then we flew into the rain in Brussels and by the time I was ready to ride the rain had stopped and the sun even peeked out briefly! So local time is now 11am, I suppose I should try to get on my bike at least by 12:30. I will be racing on Sunday at 1:30. I'd better go now, Rachel
Sunday, January 06, 2008
GOOD LUCK RACHEL!
Team Party people - by Bob Cullinan
Thank you to everyone who attended the Fundraiser for Rachel's European adventure. She recieved generous donations from the bike community ~ report coming soon!
Dario Fredrick provided the place
Josh Snead provided tunes
Sam Leuck provided the pizza and beer
BURNABY SIX DAY
HIGHLIGHTS FROM BURNABY SIX DAY
what is six day racing?
http://www.burnabysixday.com/what_is_sixday.html
Scratch Race
1st David McCook/Roman Kilun - PROMAN
The first 1-rider race was a 40 lap Scratch. Several early attacks were reeled in, but an attack by McCook of Proman with 4 laps remaining caught the group sleeping and he put almost a half lap on the field before they responded. McCook was able to hold off the charging group, with Successful Living out-sprinting the bunch to take second.
Tempo Race
5th McCook/Kilun - PROMAN
Team Elimination down to Scratch Madison
6th McCook/Kilun - PROMAN
Elimination to Scratch
3rd Roman Kilun - PROMAN
Elimination
4th David McCook - PROMAN
http://descantes.smugmug.com/gallery/4114878#239963558
what is six day racing?
http://www.burnabysixday.com/what_is_sixday.html
Scratch Race
1st David McCook/Roman Kilun - PROMAN
The first 1-rider race was a 40 lap Scratch. Several early attacks were reeled in, but an attack by McCook of Proman with 4 laps remaining caught the group sleeping and he put almost a half lap on the field before they responded. McCook was able to hold off the charging group, with Successful Living out-sprinting the bunch to take second.
Tempo Race
5th McCook/Kilun - PROMAN
Team Elimination down to Scratch Madison
6th McCook/Kilun - PROMAN
Elimination to Scratch
3rd Roman Kilun - PROMAN
Elimination
4th David McCook - PROMAN
http://descantes.smugmug.com/gallery/4114878#239963558
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
more 2007 - 2008
Back from a 4.5 hrs mountain bike ride, making up for lost time onthe bike the past 6 weeks. fire roads and singletrack. Phoenix lake, Eldridge to the top of Mount Tam, railroad grade to West Point Inn, Old Stage to Pantoll Ranger Station, Coastal trail to Muir beach, Green Gulch trail to Coyote Ridge, to Miwok fire road across Hwy 1 to Miwok single track, Panoramic Hwy to Gravity Car to Hoo koo e Koo to Kentfield coasters to king mountain single track! Gorgeous day!
Continued........................
Not to sound boastful as that's not my intention but just to state a fact, I am the only female owner/manager of a UCI track team in the world, it was just something i needed to do and was a natural progression from where we were as a team. (there may not be any women owners of road teams either, not sure of that.) Many of the other international team managers and riders ( when i was in Sydney & Beijing for track world cups) assumed I was the team masseuse (I am that too) They were all surprised when i let them know.
Obtaining sponsorship dollars is an uphill battle for a women's team, and I am so incredibly grateful for the support from our current sponsors who have faith in the team and its athletes. we could not do this without you. While some women's teams folded at the end of 2007, its exciting to see more other sponsors stepping up to support their women's teams.
Most people have no idea how much work the team takes, including myself when I started two years ago, its a thankless job at times and one I don't really get paid for (that will change soon) I felt that my first 2 years in 'business' I would just put the money back into the team, race reimbursements, race radios, website etc.
Self doubt creeps in on occasion and I wonder what I am doing. I wonder about spending so much time on something so frivolous as bike racing, when the world is full of less fortunate people in less fortunate circumstances, i think as long as i do this with honor and integrity and can inspire women to have fun, be passionate and healthy, I am ok with it.
- Thank you to my friends who reassure me that I am doing the right thing, the first two years I definitely was flying by the seat of my pants.
I have such a long list of names of those who have supported me but I am afraid to leave anyone out it includes, family, friends, teammates, sponsors, mechanics, bloggers, racers, nutritionists, commentators, coaches, acquaintances, directors, mentors, advisers, designers, bike shops, volunteers to name a few!
I watched a movie last night - A man who went up a hill and came down a mountain
Thank you too for all the support and thanks to my team mates who continue to inspire me to do this. ~ Nicola
Continued........................
Not to sound boastful as that's not my intention but just to state a fact, I am the only female owner/manager of a UCI track team in the world, it was just something i needed to do and was a natural progression from where we were as a team. (there may not be any women owners of road teams either, not sure of that.) Many of the other international team managers and riders ( when i was in Sydney & Beijing for track world cups) assumed I was the team masseuse (I am that too) They were all surprised when i let them know.
Obtaining sponsorship dollars is an uphill battle for a women's team, and I am so incredibly grateful for the support from our current sponsors who have faith in the team and its athletes. we could not do this without you. While some women's teams folded at the end of 2007, its exciting to see more other sponsors stepping up to support their women's teams.
Most people have no idea how much work the team takes, including myself when I started two years ago, its a thankless job at times and one I don't really get paid for (that will change soon) I felt that my first 2 years in 'business' I would just put the money back into the team, race reimbursements, race radios, website etc.
Self doubt creeps in on occasion and I wonder what I am doing. I wonder about spending so much time on something so frivolous as bike racing, when the world is full of less fortunate people in less fortunate circumstances, i think as long as i do this with honor and integrity and can inspire women to have fun, be passionate and healthy, I am ok with it.
- Thank you to my friends who reassure me that I am doing the right thing, the first two years I definitely was flying by the seat of my pants.
I have such a long list of names of those who have supported me but I am afraid to leave anyone out it includes, family, friends, teammates, sponsors, mechanics, bloggers, racers, nutritionists, commentators, coaches, acquaintances, directors, mentors, advisers, designers, bike shops, volunteers to name a few!
I watched a movie last night - A man who went up a hill and came down a mountain
Thank you too for all the support and thanks to my team mates who continue to inspire me to do this. ~ Nicola
Friday, December 28, 2007
DOES PROMAN HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO WIN?
Does Proman have what it takes to win?
As the 2008 preseason begins and thoughts turn toward racing, it is time to evaluate the Proman recipe for success. What makes a cycling team or any partnership successful? Everyone knows that cycling is about teamwork, but what is the essence of teamwork? Why does one partnership win when another blessed with the same quality equipment, talent, and financial support not see the same successes?
Teamwork is the combined effort of the group to achieve a common goal. Key components to the formula are that the common goal is agreed upon by every person in the collective, and that each person in the team works, to the fullest of their ability, to achieve the goal. If there is one person within the group who has any hesitation about the goal, and does not fully commit to the achievement of that goal, the team will not succeed. There will be distrust within the group should one member hold anything back for herself. All people must believe that the common goal of the team is going to benefit each individual as well, and be willing to sacrifice her own personal goals for the betterment of the group as a whole.
In this day of individualism and the destruction of the nuclear family, it is a rare thing to find a group of people all in agreement on working toward a common goal that does not have the individual front and center. Even the amazing Discovery Team had Lance front and center; every athlete knows that Lance would not have had the palmares he did were it not for the hard work, dedication and sacrifice from his Discovery Teammates.
When the group coalesces it is magic and the magic is contagious. Once the group believes in the formula, they can overcome almost any challenge. I have been blessed to work with two teams that have woven this magic. The first was the 2001 - 2003 Saturn Team. We used to say, "It does not matter who wins the race, as long as it is a Saturn Jersey on the Podium." With this as our mantra we won the World Cup Series twice and were the Number One ranked UCI Team for two consecutive years. The second team is the Proman Squad. The mutual respect and teamwork begins at the top with Niki and me working side by side to ensure that our teammates have what they need to achieve the goals of the team.
We work to balance personal goals with those of the group and in return ask each teammate to set aside her own goals when asked in order to form a cohesive, winning team unit.
Continued from newsletter & blog.........
A good team and a great team are separated by fractions of an inch at the finish line. Riders on a great team will fight until they are empty to ensure a team victory, whereas an athlete on a good team will keep something in reserve for herself just in case she finds herself in a place to capitalize on an opportunity leading to personal success. It is difficult to teach personal sacrifice for the betterment of the team; those who ride it, live it in their daily lives and treat all of humanity as part of their community with respect, love and trust. When asked to sacrifice for the team, they are willing to do so, trusting that their work will benefit the unit and in doing so, ensure the continuation of the team and therefore benefit them and their sport.
The teamwork formula is delicate. Tread upon by disrespect, dishonesty, or selfishness, it us uprooted, shattered in dismay and can rarely be rebuilt. I have been witness to this many times. Big years, like Olympic years, pose real threats to teamwork. Although an individual qualifies to represent her country at the Olympics it requires a team to get her there. Lean sponsorship years also wreak havoc with a cohesive team unit. When there is less to go around, the typical response is one of individual greed, and in doing so the individual shorts her teammates, thereby denying the necessary ingredients for the team’s success.
Teamwork requires each individual to come to the group with trust in the mission, love for their sport and an understanding of what is required of them as members of the team. The 2008 Proman squad will be tested in the year to come, but I am confident that the team that Niki and I have assembled from our sponsors, to our athletes, to our partners has what is required to face the challenges head on and finish at the top of life’s podium.
Thanks for reading - Giana Roberge
As the 2008 preseason begins and thoughts turn toward racing, it is time to evaluate the Proman recipe for success. What makes a cycling team or any partnership successful? Everyone knows that cycling is about teamwork, but what is the essence of teamwork? Why does one partnership win when another blessed with the same quality equipment, talent, and financial support not see the same successes?
Teamwork is the combined effort of the group to achieve a common goal. Key components to the formula are that the common goal is agreed upon by every person in the collective, and that each person in the team works, to the fullest of their ability, to achieve the goal. If there is one person within the group who has any hesitation about the goal, and does not fully commit to the achievement of that goal, the team will not succeed. There will be distrust within the group should one member hold anything back for herself. All people must believe that the common goal of the team is going to benefit each individual as well, and be willing to sacrifice her own personal goals for the betterment of the group as a whole.
In this day of individualism and the destruction of the nuclear family, it is a rare thing to find a group of people all in agreement on working toward a common goal that does not have the individual front and center. Even the amazing Discovery Team had Lance front and center; every athlete knows that Lance would not have had the palmares he did were it not for the hard work, dedication and sacrifice from his Discovery Teammates.
When the group coalesces it is magic and the magic is contagious. Once the group believes in the formula, they can overcome almost any challenge. I have been blessed to work with two teams that have woven this magic. The first was the 2001 - 2003 Saturn Team. We used to say, "It does not matter who wins the race, as long as it is a Saturn Jersey on the Podium." With this as our mantra we won the World Cup Series twice and were the Number One ranked UCI Team for two consecutive years. The second team is the Proman Squad. The mutual respect and teamwork begins at the top with Niki and me working side by side to ensure that our teammates have what they need to achieve the goals of the team.
We work to balance personal goals with those of the group and in return ask each teammate to set aside her own goals when asked in order to form a cohesive, winning team unit.
Continued from newsletter & blog.........
A good team and a great team are separated by fractions of an inch at the finish line. Riders on a great team will fight until they are empty to ensure a team victory, whereas an athlete on a good team will keep something in reserve for herself just in case she finds herself in a place to capitalize on an opportunity leading to personal success. It is difficult to teach personal sacrifice for the betterment of the team; those who ride it, live it in their daily lives and treat all of humanity as part of their community with respect, love and trust. When asked to sacrifice for the team, they are willing to do so, trusting that their work will benefit the unit and in doing so, ensure the continuation of the team and therefore benefit them and their sport.
The teamwork formula is delicate. Tread upon by disrespect, dishonesty, or selfishness, it us uprooted, shattered in dismay and can rarely be rebuilt. I have been witness to this many times. Big years, like Olympic years, pose real threats to teamwork. Although an individual qualifies to represent her country at the Olympics it requires a team to get her there. Lean sponsorship years also wreak havoc with a cohesive team unit. When there is less to go around, the typical response is one of individual greed, and in doing so the individual shorts her teammates, thereby denying the necessary ingredients for the team’s success.
Teamwork requires each individual to come to the group with trust in the mission, love for their sport and an understanding of what is required of them as members of the team. The 2008 Proman squad will be tested in the year to come, but I am confident that the team that Niki and I have assembled from our sponsors, to our athletes, to our partners has what is required to face the challenges head on and finish at the top of life’s podium.
Thanks for reading - Giana Roberge
Monday, December 24, 2007
World Cup #1 Sydney, Australia
Around the World and back again.. A trip to remember
World Cup #1: Syndey, Australia
We started our trip on the busiest travel day of the year, the Sunday after Thanksgiving. When we first booked our flights, it made a lot of sense as we were coming back to do the talent pool test, to fly into and out of L.A. So, Niki, Dave, and I began our trip with a 6-7 hour drive from the South Bay down to L.A.to catch the overnight flight to Australia.
Photo: leaving for LA
It was a long couple of days of traveling and we finally arrived mid-day Tuesday to the Sydney Airport, where we met up with our teammate Kele Murdin who had flown in from Seattle, Washington. Also at the airport that day, we met our most gracious host Doug Robinson, who kindly helped us with our massive luggage and guided us back to his house in Manly Beach, where we would be staying for the next 6 days.
The drive back to his house was interesting for us as foreigners because in Australia, they drive on the opposite side of the road. I'm not sure how many times Niki or I yelled that we were going the wrong way, but it was pretty funny. After a while, we got used to it and brave Niki even ended up driving alone to the track one day, which is something I would never have been able to do.
It was a long couple of days of traveling and we finally arrived mid-day Tuesday to the Sydney Airport, where we met up with our teammate Kele Murdin who had flown in from Seattle, Washington. Also at the airport that day, we met our most gracious host Doug Robinson, who kindly helped us with our massive luggage and guided us back to his house in Manly Beach, where we would be staying for the next 6 days.The drive back to his house was interesting for us as foreigners because in Australia, they drive on the opposite side of the road. I'm not sure how many times Niki or I yelled that we were going the wrong way, but it was pretty funny. After a while, we got used to it and brave Niki even ended up driving alone to the track one day, which is something I would never have been able to do.
Photo: dinner with hosts in manly beach
The track was located south of the city and we were staying in a house north of the city, so everyday we would drive the rental car out to the track and train during our 1.5 hour assigned time. The time of day would change every day, but usually we were on the track with the same teams, which were mostly U.S. teams. The teams were the U.S. National Team, Momentum, Verducci, South Bay Wheelman, Cody Racing, Jamaica, Slipstream, and usually a couple of other countries like the Korean team or Iran. It was a unique experience when the other countries were there because they did not speak our language. But, you get the idea pretty quick about what means, "Get out of the way" or "Stay" despite the language barrier. For the most part, everyone was very friendly and polite, but it was a very serious atmosphere and the athletes and coaches were very focused.
The track was located south of the city and we were staying in a house north of the city, so everyday we would drive the rental car out to the track and train during our 1.5 hour assigned time. The time of day would change every day, but usually we were on the track with the same teams, which were mostly U.S. teams. The teams were the U.S. National Team, Momentum, Verducci, South Bay Wheelman, Cody Racing, Jamaica, Slipstream, and usually a couple of other countries like the Korean team or Iran. It was a unique experience when the other countries were there because they did not speak our language. But, you get the idea pretty quick about what means, "Get out of the way" or "Stay" despite the language barrier. For the most part, everyone was very friendly and polite, but it was a very serious atmosphere and the athletes and coaches were very focused. Photo: Manly Beach
We trained every day leading up to the races. When we weren't training we spent some time shopping, touring around the city by car or by bike, and even swimming in the ocean. Manly was absolutely beautiful and it was just beginning to be summertime. The scenery out at the ocean was crystal clear water and blue skies.
Finally, race day arrived. I was so ready to race, I couldn't stand just thinking about the race anymore. I needed to get in there and see what it was like. Race day was much different because now instead of just 6-7 teams out at the track at one time, there were 48 teams. The entire infield was packed with teams, coaches and managers and everyone was cramped up in there little allotted spot trying to warmup on rollers that were practically touching the guy next to them. It was cozy for sure, but we figured it out and made do with what we had. We were seated next to all of the teams we had been training with in the days preceding the races. bob from melbourne (see below) was a great help to us, he was there supporting jennie reed but helped us out in his free time.
We trained every day leading up to the races. When we weren't training we spent some time shopping, touring around the city by car or by bike, and even swimming in the ocean. Manly was absolutely beautiful and it was just beginning to be summertime. The scenery out at the ocean was crystal clear water and blue skies.
Finally, race day arrived. I was so ready to race, I couldn't stand just thinking about the race anymore. I needed to get in there and see what it was like. Race day was much different because now instead of just 6-7 teams out at the track at one time, there were 48 teams. The entire infield was packed with teams, coaches and managers and everyone was cramped up in there little allotted spot trying to warmup on rollers that were practically touching the guy next to them. It was cozy for sure, but we figured it out and made do with what we had. We were seated next to all of the teams we had been training with in the days preceding the races. bob from melbourne (see below) was a great help to us, he was there supporting jennie reed but helped us out in his free time. Photo: Bob from Melbourne
First up on Friday morning was the individual pursuits. Kele was our only team member who would do the event, but rising start Taylor Phinney was representing the U.S. team for the men's race and finished in 9th overall. Not bad for a first world cup and a senior in highschool. That kid is amazing and probably one of the coolest young cats I've met in a while.
Then it was time for Dave to race his 60 lap points race qualifier. Both the women and the men would have 3 qualifying heats each with full fields in each heat for both the Scratch and the Points Races. Of about 22 riders, only 8 would qualify for the final. It was not easy to qualify and, in fact, many well-known and world-class riders did not make the final.
Dave scored early in his heat and even scored again on the second sprint lap, but it wasn't enough to get him into the final. Too many riders had gone up a lap and even though scoring points in two sprints normally would have secured his spot in the final, these world cup races are a different ball game all together.
Having seen the way the men raced and then watching the 2 preceding qualifying heats for the women's scratch race, I knew I had to race the qualifier as if it was the final. Our Scratch race heats were only 20 laps with the first 8 to cross the finish line moving onto the final. My teammate, Kele, rode a strong first race and just missed out on making the final. Each of the heats were playing out differently. Some of them were slow and steady with riders just seeking better position the entire race and others were fast tempo with attacks and riders going off the front and lapping the field.
After all the waiting and gearing up for this one event, it was finally here and it was my turn to get onto the track and race my first World Cup Track race. In that moment, I truly felt like I was living my life to it's fullest. It was like the calm before the storm and I was genuinely happy. I have always dreamed of competing with the best women in the world and here I was, living the dream. It was a moment I will never forget.
That night I raced with confidence. I trusted the fact that I had done the work to get me there and I was ready to compete. My race stayed together for the entire 20 laps and as it started to speed up for the sprint, I found myself in great position. I was about 8th wheel going into the last lap and I saw a hole in the field where I could make my move and start my sprint for the line early in turn 1. As soon as I decided to go, the hole collapsed on me and for a split second, I thought I was going to crash and my race was over. But experienced riders will not go down if they can help it, and the two girls that collapsed into me just seemed to bounce right off. Unfortunately though, in the couple seconds that I hesitated to keep it upright, the field ahead had pressed on and were now rounding turn 3 for the finish line. I found myself in 8th wheel again and thought I had done enough to qualify, but a girl came underneath me on the line and took that final qualifying spot away from me. The field was tight when it crossed the line and I was nervous to push too hard into another hole. That is where I lost the race. In the end of a race, when it's just you and the line ahead of you, you have to just go for it. I did not and I regret that. However, it was a great experience and I was still confident that I could hang with the pace of the other women. Now it was time to start thinking about the Points Race the next day.
First up on Friday morning was the individual pursuits. Kele was our only team member who would do the event, but rising start Taylor Phinney was representing the U.S. team for the men's race and finished in 9th overall. Not bad for a first world cup and a senior in highschool. That kid is amazing and probably one of the coolest young cats I've met in a while.
Then it was time for Dave to race his 60 lap points race qualifier. Both the women and the men would have 3 qualifying heats each with full fields in each heat for both the Scratch and the Points Races. Of about 22 riders, only 8 would qualify for the final. It was not easy to qualify and, in fact, many well-known and world-class riders did not make the final.
Dave scored early in his heat and even scored again on the second sprint lap, but it wasn't enough to get him into the final. Too many riders had gone up a lap and even though scoring points in two sprints normally would have secured his spot in the final, these world cup races are a different ball game all together.
Having seen the way the men raced and then watching the 2 preceding qualifying heats for the women's scratch race, I knew I had to race the qualifier as if it was the final. Our Scratch race heats were only 20 laps with the first 8 to cross the finish line moving onto the final. My teammate, Kele, rode a strong first race and just missed out on making the final. Each of the heats were playing out differently. Some of them were slow and steady with riders just seeking better position the entire race and others were fast tempo with attacks and riders going off the front and lapping the field.
After all the waiting and gearing up for this one event, it was finally here and it was my turn to get onto the track and race my first World Cup Track race. In that moment, I truly felt like I was living my life to it's fullest. It was like the calm before the storm and I was genuinely happy. I have always dreamed of competing with the best women in the world and here I was, living the dream. It was a moment I will never forget.
That night I raced with confidence. I trusted the fact that I had done the work to get me there and I was ready to compete. My race stayed together for the entire 20 laps and as it started to speed up for the sprint, I found myself in great position. I was about 8th wheel going into the last lap and I saw a hole in the field where I could make my move and start my sprint for the line early in turn 1. As soon as I decided to go, the hole collapsed on me and for a split second, I thought I was going to crash and my race was over. But experienced riders will not go down if they can help it, and the two girls that collapsed into me just seemed to bounce right off. Unfortunately though, in the couple seconds that I hesitated to keep it upright, the field ahead had pressed on and were now rounding turn 3 for the finish line. I found myself in 8th wheel again and thought I had done enough to qualify, but a girl came underneath me on the line and took that final qualifying spot away from me. The field was tight when it crossed the line and I was nervous to push too hard into another hole. That is where I lost the race. In the end of a race, when it's just you and the line ahead of you, you have to just go for it. I did not and I regret that. However, it was a great experience and I was still confident that I could hang with the pace of the other women. Now it was time to start thinking about the Points Race the next day.
Saturday, November 24, 2007
RIDE THE WORLD CUPS FUNDRAISER! #1
The first "Ride The World Cup" race at Hellyer was a total success.
It was probably the best turnout we have had all year.
The night started with a 2-hour warm-up session with lots of riders trying out the track for the first time in a stress-free environment. DJ Snead was already set-up on the infield, spinning some awesome tunes that made the atmosphere incredibly cool and super-fun.
The first race started at 5:00 p.m. sharp with a field of about 15 C-riders competing in a 50-lap points race. The race was fun to watch with newby Mark making a strong impression on the spectators by launching an attack 3 laps into the race and creating a gap and a break away early in the race. The race was over before we knew it and it was time to take the rail and begin the 100-lap A's Points Race.
The first race started at 5:00 p.m. sharp with a field of about 15 C-riders competing in a 50-lap points race. The race was fun to watch with newby Mark making a strong impression on the spectators by launching an attack 3 laps into the race and creating a gap and a break away early in the race. The race was over before we knew it and it was time to take the rail and begin the 100-lap A's Points Race.
It was the biggest field I had competed against all year, probably about 30 riders. Everyone seemed ready to race and motivated to give us World Cup riders a run for our money. Dave McCook, Roman Kilun, Steve Paelez and myself are the riders that will be attending the World Cups this track season.
Dave started the race with a bang by launching an attack as soon as the gun went off and making the chasing field go from zero to 35 mph in less than a lap. He was able to hold off the field for a few laps and when it all came together again, it didn't slow down. The first sprint was contested by a united field of 30+ riders and I found myself positioned close to the front. I went for the sprint out of turn 3 and scored a point in the first sprint, which would later prove to be instrumental in my overall finish. The attacks did not stop throughout the entire 100-lap race. Soon, Mike Hernandez and Daniel Holloway established a breakaway that stayed away long enough to score some significant points. Several sprints were only for 2 and 1 points because of the situation off the front, but eventually it came back together and full points were available once again.
Ultimately, the field withered down to 6 riders that were on the same lap and I found myself in a breakaway with 4 of them. Hernandez looked back to find me on his wheel and motioned for me to take his wheel for the bell lap coming up. That's just what I did. The acceleration was enough to shake the other 2 and it was just us off the front leading into the final straightaway. Hernandez moved out of the pole and gave me the 5 points, which moved me into 4 or 5th place overall. I tried to redeem myself after the immense effort that was hanging on to Mike's wheel and found a nice draft to rest for the final 10 laps. We were now in a much smaller group and it was 4 to go with 6 of us and I was on 2nd wheel. The rider in front of me pulled off with 1/2 lap to go and I was overtaken by a couple of riders behind, but manage to hold the rest of the field off and score some points in the final sprint. I finished 3rd overall with Dave finishing just ahead of me in 2nd place.
I must take a moment to thank my man, Rob, for putting up all the cash for the BBQ food and the keg and knowing how to throw an incredibly fun party. This was by far the best night at the track I have ever experienced. There were some many incredible people who came out and showed their support. Huge thanks to DJ Josh Snead for spinning records so well the entire night. The music made a huge difference and sounded awesome.
Also, thanks to my mom and my step-dad for slaving away at the BBQ all night, making sure everyone was well-fed and warm. Thanks to Matt Martinez and the rangers at Hellyer Park for allowing this night to happen. Thanks to Emily and Ann for the cheering. Ron at Beljum Budder for the cream and Mudshine.
There really are so many people to thank. It's an amazing feeling to know that there are so many generous and supportive fans of cycling that are willing and happy to help us pursue our dreams of international competition. We will keep you posted on our adventures and we look forward to "Ride the World Cup" Round Two in January.
There really are so many people to thank. It's an amazing feeling to know that there are so many generous and supportive fans of cycling that are willing and happy to help us pursue our dreams of international competition. We will keep you posted on our adventures and we look forward to "Ride the World Cup" Round Two in January.
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