GABA Barbecue and Potluck Picnic Himmel Park

March 23rd, Saturday, 11 AM

Just a reminder - don't forget to come and join in the fun!  Visit with old friends, make some new ones, get a little "alternative to bicycling exercise" by playing a rousing game of volley ball or tossing a game of horseshoes!

The meats will be furnished by GABA, and barbecued by none other than "Master Chef Volunteers" from the Board of Directors.  The sodas will also be compliments of the Club, and iced to perfection. 

Bring along a picnic dish or side item of your choice to share with everyone.  If you do bring your own refreshment of choice: please!  do not bring glass containers.

We will be located at the NE corner of Himmel Park, along First Street between Sawtelle and Treat Avenues.  Drive 1 block south of Speedway Blvd., (east of Tucson Blvd. and west of Country Club Rd).

 Ya'll Come!!!

SALT RIVER CANYON

BIKE RIDE

May  4 & 5, 2002

Two options!         

85 miles per day with all the hills or

65 miles per day with less hills!

Join us for the spectacular scenery and challenging hills of the Salt River Canyon the first weekend of May.  With over 6,500 feet of climbing on the first day, this ride is for strong, experienced riders.

DAY ONE: The 85-miler takes you from the mining town of Globe up through desert vistas into pine trees, and the open vistas of the rocky canyon. The 65-miler includes a 20-mile ride in the sag vehicle to the 1st sag stop to eliminate about 3000 feet of climbing out of Globe the first day.

 Both options include the curvy and steep descent to the bottom of the canyon, climbing up and up the other side, a down-hill to Carrizo Creek and the final rolling climb in the pine trees into Show Low.

 DAY TWO: The course may be shortened by riding in a sag vehicle down the hill to Carrizo Canyon, or "shorter version" cyclists can choose to tackle the full 85 miles and 5000 feet of climbing.  If you choose the shorter version with less hills, call Kathy, 480-775-1108, or e-mail kate1967@msn.com to reserve your seat in the sag van!

STARTING PLACE & TIME:

Meet in Globe at 5:45 AM on Saturday morning at Gen's Cafe on Broad Street (formerly Peg's Kitchen - Take Broad St. off of US 60, follow it past Sycamore, on the left). Load your duffle bag in the baggage vehicle and pick up your map & riders instructions. Gen's Cafe opens at 6 AM for breakfast.  After breakfast. start riding as soon as you're ready, no later than 7 AM!  Baggage van will depart by 7:15 AM.

SAG SUPPORT:

SAG #1 will be 20 mi. into the ride. Gradual climbing on this portion of the ride. 

SAG #2 will be 40 mi. into the ride at the top of the climb out of the Salt River Canyon Enjoy lunch here.   

SAG #3 will be 20 mi. further at Service Station at Carrizo Junction.   

Re-hydrate yourself at each sag stop, even if you don't feel thirsty!  Consumption of enough calories during the whole day will help you feel strong up to your destination. 

RIDE COST:

$40 for GABA members; $45 for non-members.  After 4/24, $45 for members, $55 for non-members. 

DAY OF EVENT:  $60 for members & $65 for non-members.  Helmets are mandatory. 

Fee includes camping at Fool's Hollow State Park in Show Low; baggage transport; 3 sag stops including a lunch stop each day; sag vehicles on the route; sag ride from campground to pizza place for dinner, maps and riders instructions. 

RIDE LEADER:

Kathy Hendricks, 480-775-1108 or Email kate1967@msn.com (home) or khendricks @flusol.com (work) Please send your messages to both addresses. Volunteers are still needed to help at sag stops:  contact Kathy (or Pam Cullop in Tucson at 290-4321) if you want to help.

17th Annual Tucson Bicycle Classic

USCF Stage Race    

April 5-7, 2002

"A proving ground for future Olympians & Champions"!  A Lance Armstrong Junior Olympic Road Race Series!  $7000 Prize List & 15 USCF categories, including pro­fes­sionals, junior  and masters categories!

The Southwest's premier and longest running multi-category USCF stage race is gearing up for its 17th annual  edition in the beautiful Tucson Mountain Park area.  This race has been the stepping stone for many great cyclists to Olympic and international fame, including  Tucson's Gord Fraser, Rebecca Twigg, Kent Bostick, and  Bobby Julich, who with Lance Armstrong and Greg Lemond are the only Americans to place in the Tour de France final top 3! 

Last year, a field of 500 competitors from 20 states, Mexico, Canada and Europe entered the Classic, or TBC.  For the 7th year in a row, the TBC is a part of the Lance Armstrong Junior Olympic Race Series,  attracting some of the West's top juniors from ages of 10-18 who will be competing for precious National and Junior Olympic Team qualifying points. 

This year's sponsors include Academy of Physical Therapy, ALTA, Artisan Prosthetics, GABA, El Tour de Tucson, Chipotle, Curtis Lueck & Assoc., The Legend Group, Lifeline Chiropractic, Ordinary Bike Shop, Old Tucson, Time Market, Quality Inn Suites, Print Room and Clear Water Systems.   Race flyers are available in local bike shops.  

Where: Tucson Mountain Park and surrounding areas.

What: The premier stage race in the South-west! Excellent competition and friendly people!  Cash awards to most categories and plaques for top placers. Standings are based on time (as in the Tour de France),  where the lowest accumulated time in each category establishes the winner.

Official Charities:  The Tucson Centers for Women and Children, and the Brad P. Gorman Memorial Fund, to fight domestic violence and promote bicycle safety.

Courses:          

Stage 1: Friday: 1-6 PM           

McCain Loop 3.0 mile prologue TT, new course this year.  Mostly uphill on excellent roads in the Tucson Mountain Park area west of Old Tucson, where registration and parking take place.  Start near Gilbert Ray Campground.  Ride your bike to the TT course: no parking allowed on McCain Loop.

Stage 2: Saturday: 6:30 AM-12 Noon    

Gates Pass Road Race: distance varies from 105 to 21 miles depending on the category.  Course is a 21-mile loop with 1000 vertical feet of climbing and all kinds of terrain including rollers, descents and a 4-mile climb starting out @ 4% and topping out @ 12% atop Gates Pass!  Most categories do this climb 2 or 3 times, elite men 5 times! Start/finish on Greasewood north of Pima College. Great viewing at top of Gates Pass,7 AM-12 Noon.  Ride your bike early!

Stage 3: Sunday: 6:30-11:30 AM  Speedway/Anklam Circuit Race. Mileages from 56 to 33 on a 5.6-mile loop with 300' vertical climbing per lap.  Mid-race time bonus sprints and breakaways add excitement to this race!  Same start/finish line for both Sat./Sun.  Great viewing on the Anklam Rd. water feed hill and start/finish area. Park in Pima College NW parking lot.

Awards Ceremony:     

Saturday late morning for Jr. 10-12 and 13-14 Boys/Girls. Sunday late AM for early races, Sunday PM for later races.

 More information:      

Website: http://www.casaschurch.org/tbc

Email: snsbohn@mindspring.com

Info: Steve Bohn, Race Director, 2140 E. 7th St., Tucson  AZ  85719,(520) 884-5564.

Volunteer Info:  Call Steve. 

Friday: 11 AM-3 PM: Parking attendants; Noon-6 PM: some corner marshals.

Saturday and Sunday AM:  6 AM-Noon  Support vehicle drivers, race official help.

Host Housing-can you put up some racers for the weekend?  Please call Steve.

Coming Soon!

Saturday, March 30th

     El Bike Swap de Tucson

Bargain Hunters Paradise!

LOCATION: On 4th Avenue, between 6th and 9th Streets, near downtown.

TIME: Starting at 7 AM to 1 PM. 

So much to see and do at this year's El Bike Swap de Tucson!   It is the biggest and best bicycle swap meet in the state!.   This is a community event for everyone - families, RV travelers, trainers, health & fitness buffs, weekend warriors, road and mountain competitors, and daily commuters. 

Bargains and great deals on road bikes, tandems, mountain bikes, accessories, clothing and more!  Some of the great deals you'll find range from tools, tubes and tires to chains, frames and forks, clothing and collectibles. Take advantage of the spectacular shopping opportunities and sample the many varied restaurants along historic 4th Avenue!   

Walk among the streetscapes displaying over 100 booths and vendors from all over the state and also including California, Nevada, Kansas, and New Mexico. Stop by the GABA-Tucson booth for free demonstrations on how to fix a flat. 

-  Admire the artwork of the Zuni Bike Club whose art is made entirely of bicycle parts! 

-  Purchase a raffle ticket for the "Eagle" a partially restored 1896 Vintage Bicycle!

-  Pick up a free bicycling route map outlining the rules of the road!

-  Parents/Teachers/Students, visit the Safe Routes to School booth!

-  Ride the Trolley!

-  Sign up for community rides for all ages and abilities! 

A fun, free human-powered festival held in conjunction with the 4th Street Merchants Association and the City of Tucson's, Clean Air Fiesta.   THE very best swap meet to attend each year! 

Help out with other members at the GABA-booth and sign up to enter your bike special for the "Calvacade of Bikes" parade.   Call Event organizer: Greg Yares, 323-9020.

BYLAWS AMENDMENT 

 By Dick Forcier 

The Board of GABA, Inc. is in favor of amending the Club Bylaws to permit compensation to be paid to a board member for services other than their position as a Director. Our club relies on unpaid services of its members, such as ride leaders, sag support, program presentations and the Board of Directors.  GABA has occasionally paid compensation to members and non-members for services to the club such as Ride Leader and support personnel for the week long Great Arizona Bicycle Adventure.      

Article III, Section 7 of the Bylaws presently reads as follows: No Director shall receive compensation for any service he may render to the corporation.  However, any Director may be reimbursed for his out of pocket expenses incurred in the performance of his duties.  Proof of expenses shall be required prior to reimbursement."   

The GABA Board purposes to amend Article III, Section 7 to read as follows:  "No Director shall receive compensation for his services as a Director for the corporation.  However, with prior approval by the board, a Director may be compensated for other services rendered to the Corporation.  A Director may be reimbursed for his out of pocket expenses incurred in the performance of his duties.  Proof of expenses shall be required prior to reimbursement."   

This proposed Amendment will be presented to the membership for a vote at the general meeting on April 1, 2002 at the Pima County Medical Society Building, 5199 E. Farness, Tucson, Arizona. 

Any questions?  Give me a call at 298-7668.  

Bike Swap

Volunteers Meeting!

Wednesday, March 27th

Brooklyn Pizza, 534 N. 4th Ave (north of 6th St.) at 6:30 PM

 Many volunteer will be needed on Saturday, March 30th!  Early risers may volunteers to help with traffic controls and set up.  Others will be needed throughout the morning to handle many different tasks.  And, after the event is over, volunteers are needed to clean up and return equipment to the GABA "Shed".  

For those who could devote a little more time, Greg Yares, Swap Organizer, needs you too!  Planning, advertising, as well as many other things too numerous to list here, to make this event a great success! 

Do you know how to get a TV camera to come to the Bike Swap?  Please help us give more publicity to our event! 

If interested, please call Greg at 323-9020 as soon as possible! or e-mail him at yares@dakotacom.net Greg needs to know ahead of time that he can count on you!   

"20th    ANNIVERSARY"

SONOITA-BISBEE RIDE

April 13 - 14, 2002

Route: The route, meant for intermediate riders, traverses the high southern  Arizona plains, with rolling hills and one pass.   

First day - approx. 65 miles: The course takes you along grassy meadows and scenic valleys from Sonoita to Mustang Corners (sag stop #1), to Tombstone (look for a GABA “Water Stop”.) Visit the famous Tombstone Boardwalk, small shops and museums. Then return to your bike and continue southeast. Enjoy the majestic views of the Huachuca Mountains to the west as you descend to the base of the Mule Mountains for a delicious GABA lunch (sag stop #2), last sag stop before a steady 6-mile climb that brings you to the tunnel at the top! So, don’t forget to refuel!  

As you ride through the tunnel, you are starting the long descent into Bisbee, nestled in Tombstone Canyon! Quaint small shops and artists galleries will charm you as you stroll along the narrow twisted streets of this “turn-of-the-century” mining town! 

Second day - approx. 55 miles: The return trip takes you back up to the tunnel, either via the main highway, or through the narrow winding Tombstone Canyon road. You could continue on this road to the TOP of the tunnel, or just go through the tunnel on your way to the major descent of this day! As you were climbing the 6-mile Mule Mountain Pass, did you think how great it would be to go the other way? Well, here it is! Enjoy this great descent!  

At the bottom, turn left towards Sierra Vista and continue down to the crossing of the San Pedro River. A little climb with great views of the Huachuca Mountains and you are now NEAR Sierra Vista, at SAG Stop #1.  A bit further, turn right at the junction of Hwys 90 & 92. The By-Pass will bring you to Huachuca City on a nice and smooth road. 

The 3rd leg of this journey back may bring some headwinds - a traditional occur­rence on this ride! Look for SAG #2 a few miles up the hill at milepost 49.  A little more climb, with scenic mountain scenes at the horizon, and you're now back in grasslands, and close to the finish in Sonoita.

Your fee includes:

1.         Camping at the Santa Cruz Fairgrounds in Sonoita on Friday night before the ride (bathrooms available);

2.         Safe parking for you car at the Fairgrounds for the weekend;

3.         Sweep support along the route; two sag stops with ice water, fruit and snacks; and lunch at Sag #2;

4.         Baggage truck to deliver your lugga­ge at camping site or your B & B (tag your duffel bag with hotel tags at start of ride);

5.         Delicious Mexican dinner in Bisbee on Saturday night at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church ($5 extra prepaid with ride fee);

6.         Scrumptious Mexican breakfast on Sunday morning starting at 6 AM  to send you off with a smile ($5 at the door); 

6.         Camping in Bisbee on Saturday night at City Park away from traffic, yet convenient to the center of town; you're on your own for lodging: see motel list below;

7.         Route map and riders instructions.

No other bicycle events are planned on this weekend, so come and enjoy the scenery, camaraderie of fellow cyclists and the charm of Historic Bisbee! Make plans ahead of time! Send your pre-registration early!  And make your reservations early if you are planning to do “Bed & Breakfast”!

Starting Point: In Sonoita at the Fairgrounds (follow GABA signs) on Saturday morning.

Starting Time: Register between 6:30-8:30 AM. Baggage truck departs no later than 9 AM. Sign in, drop off your duffel bag labeled with color-coded motel tags, and pick up your map & riders instructions. Then, start riding as soon as you're ready!

Ride leader: Dick Schaffer, 520-326-4807. (bikeschaf@aol.com)

You Are Invited To join us!

For GABA's 2nd Annual

Potluck Picnic & Barbecue

On Saturday, March 23rd.

Desert Double Training Schedule

MARCH: (Saturdays)

(See Biketivities schedule for details.)

 March 2nd: Le Grande. 65 miles (add another 45 mi = 110), coaching available. (You need to pre-register for this ride.)

March 9th: Training Ride, about 120 fast miles, coaching available.

March 16th:  Long Training Ride of 135 planned-pace miles, coaching available.

March 23rd:  Training Ride, about 80 easy miles, coaching available.

March 30th:  The John Farr Desert Double Century. 200 miles. 

In addition to these weekend training rides, you'll need to ride at least 3 times during the week, an average of 50-75 minutes each time in March. Other important coaching points will be conveyed during the training rides.  For more info, call Rich Corbett, 623-0017 or kc7oym@dakotacom.net

      Ride Date         Ride Name                               Save $       If postmarked by         

                                    SAVE

      3/2                    Le Grande                                 $5               February 1

      3/16                  Mining Country Cent.                  $10             March 2

      3/30                  Bike Swap de Tucson                 FREE

      3/30                  Desert Double Century               $5               March 15

      4/6 & 7              Hands Across the Border            Must be paid by       March 30

      4/13 & 14          Sonoita Bisbee                          $5               April 5

      5/4 & 5              Salt River Canyon Tour               $5               April 24

 "Fifth Annual"  Hands Across The Border International Bike Tour

April 6 & 7, 2002

Limited to 35 riders

Come experience a very unique ride through beautiful, historic, remote Sonora River Valley in Mexico, a political center in the 17th and 18th centuries rich in Spanish Missionaries and history of Apache raids!  It is now a ranching agricultural area with unchanged villages, wonderful old churches and beautiful plazas!  

This 2-day, 100-mile biking "adventure" with full escort, goes from the mining town of Cananea, to quaint El Ranchito, with light local traffic and patient courteous drivers. 

The paved route goes through the Sonora Mountains with steep ascents and descents, and along the Sonora river valley with several sandy or wet river crossings! 

The culmination of the Tour is at a beautiful natural Hot Springs (bring SWIMSUIT) with farewell Mexican dinner by our hosts. 

Expect a cultural experience with formal gatherings in village plazas for an official welcome by the local mayor, our hosts' dinner (probably not vegetarian), a lot of attention and interest from local people, and many other unpredictable events as one can expect in Mexico! 

Ride Cost:  $125 per rider.

Deadline to sign up: before 3/30/02.

Your fee includes:

1. Overnight camping on Friday night in Continental School Cafeteria;

2.  Coffee & bagels on Saturday morning;

3.  A commemorative T-shirt; 

4. Transportation from Continental School in Green Valley for participants, bikes & luggage to the start of the ride in Cananea;

5. Sag food & lunches on the road after we leave Cananea;

6. Dinner and camping indoors on Saturday night (sorry, no showers, but hot springs on Sunday afternoon);

7.  Sunday breakfast;

8. Farewell dinner at Hot Springs on Sunday afternoon;

9. Transportation back to Green Valley.

Starting Point & Time:

Meet at Continental School in Green Valley on Saturday, 4/6, at 4 AM. Camping available in School Cafeteria if you don't want to get up so early! DIRECTIONS: Take I-19 south to Continental Exit, at south end of Green Valley; turn left (east) on Continental Rd. for approx. 1 mile; then turn right on White House Canyon Rd., (road to Madera Canyon) for 2 miles to  school.  

Return:

On Sunday, 4/7 arriving back in Green Valley around 10 PM.  

Ride Details:

DAY 1:  Cananea to Arizpe - 60 miles

DAY 2:  Arizpe to El Ranchito - 40 miles  

A Birth Certificate or Passport is needed for border crossing & $20 for a Mexican Visa. 

Make checks payable to Continental School HATB Bike Ride and mail to: Continental School Bike Ride, P. O. Box 547, Green Valley, AZ   85622.  

What to bring: Birth Certificate or Pass-port; $20 for Mexican Visa; camping gear for Friday night at Continental School and Saturday night in Arizpe; swimsuit & towel for hot springs; flat repair kit and pump.   

Helmets are mandatory.  You must pre-register for this ride.  Use the generic pre-registration on page 11 of your Update.  Limited to 35 riders, so register early!  Suitable for either mountain or road bikes.  

For info, contact Tom Ward, 520-625-3649, or twardasso@dakotacom.net, Randy Aronson, 520-648-3876, etboyyrd@animalcarecenter.com   You can also visit the Continental Schools web site for pictures:  www.continental.k12.us and click on news.

 Money earned goes to sister schools in El Ranchito, La Estancia and San Pablo, Sonora.

The 10th  Annual

Mining   Country  Challenge

Saturday,   March   16th

Two options to choose from! 

96 very hilly scenic miles!

Or 66 hilly scenic miles!

This year, two challenging routes to choose from:  the Classic 96-mile Century with 6,000 feet of climbing, and the New 66-mile Metric Century with only 2,215  feet of climbing; however, the challenge in this route will be the "End of the World", a 1.5 mile long 11% grade ascent!

When: Saturday March 16, 2002

Registration is from 7 AM to 8:30 AM  *The Century starts at 8:30 AM* The Metric Century starts at 9 AM*  *New this year: Mass Starts for both events.

Where: Registration and start is in Old Town Superior at the Chamber of Commerce at 350 Main Street.  The Finish is at the intersection of Magma Ave. and Main St. 

Directions: From Tucson, take Hwy 77 north to Oracle Junction, then Hwy 79  north to Florence Junction. Then, take Hwy 60 east to Superior. Main Street is less than a mile on the north side of the Highway. 

Parking Restrictions: No Parking  permitted on Main Street West of Magma Ave.  The Town of Superior is holding their 14th annual Superior Mountain Festival and  closing the street for the festivities. 

Fees:                                                                                                          

PMBC/GABA/ABC Members:                                                                            $10

Non-Members:                                                                                                   $15

Late Fee after March 2:                                                                                     $10

Make checks payable to: PMBC, P. O. Box 26788, Tempe, AZ.  85285-6788. Use Generic Pre-Registration Form on Page 15. 

Other Questions:

Ride Director Robert McClure, (480) 834-0430, flamingredbikes@hotmail.com More info at http://www.sportsfun.com/gaba Organized by Phoenix Metro Bicycle Club (GABA Phoenix).

2002 Schedule of

Education & Safety Workshops

By Dick Schaffer, Educational Director 

MARCH:  Safety Workshop

Monday, March 25.                    6:30 to 8 PM. Wilmot Library, 530 N. Wilmot.

APRIL:  Maintenance Workshop

Thursday, April 25.                     6:30 to 8 PM.

Udall Center, 7200 E. Tanque Verde.

Outside in Ramada #3.  Look for GABA sign. 

MAY:  Ride Leader Workshop

Wednesday, May 22.                 6:30 to 8 PM.

Woods Library, 3455 N. First Avenue. 

JUNE:

Safety Workshop - Summer Riding

Tuesday, June 4.                       6:30 to 8 PM.

Himmel Library, 1035 N. Treat. 

JULY:  None.  Summer Break. 

AUGUST:  Maintenance Clinic 7 to 9 PM.

Udall Center, 7200 E. Tanque Verde.

Outside in Ramada #3.  Look for GABA sign.

SEPTEMBER:  Safety Workshop

Wednesday, September 18.        6:30 to 8 PM.

Columbus Library, Columbus & 22nd St., SE corner. 

OCTOBER:  Ride Leaders Workshop

Tuesday, October 22.                 6:30 to 8 PM.

Wilmot Library, 530 N. Wilmot.    

NOVEMBER: 

El Tour Education & Safety

Wednesday, November 6.           6:30 to 8 PM.

Himmel Library, 1035 N. Treat. 

DECEMBER:  None. Holiday Break.

Proof of GABA-Tucson Membership 

At a recent Board meeting, your GABA-Tucson Board discussed the various ways that members can "prove" that they really are GABA members.  The need may arise when members are making purchases at local bike shops who generously give a "GABA Discount". 

Not to worry!  It is very easy to prove that you are a GABA-Tucson member in good standing!  All you have to do is cut out the label of your newsletter and stash it in your wallet. It has your name and the membership expiration date on it.  This small piece of paper will come in handy when you go to your friendly neighborhood bike shop for major purchases:  it may entitle you to a "GABA Discount"!

For your information, not all bike shops offer a discount; the rate of the discounts offered may vary between shops; and it may be given only on certain kinds of purchases.  But, if you need it, you will be prepared to show your proof of membership!

Social Director Needed!

Only one 2002 Board position is still open:  Social Director. This a very EASY and FUN job!    

The Social Director is in charge of bringing the refreshments for the monthly meeting - that is ONCE a month on the first Monday of the month!  What refreshments?  That is left to his/her creativity! 

In addition, the Social Director is in charge of bringing the "catered" dinner for the Board Meeting on the second Monday of the month.  Again, what kind of food is up to the Social Director, with suggestions from the Board Members, of course! 

All Board positions have many perks that come with it, such as free overnighters or centuries, for example! 

Anyone interested?  Please call President Wayne Cullop at 290-4321 for more info and to volunteer.

New Zealand Bike Trip

Some GABA members might remember Ted and Gloria Belanger's presentation  last year on their year long "Odyssey 2000" bike trip around the world.

Among the countries they cycle through, they enjoyed New Zealand so much that they are returning again to the beautiful area of the South Island.  This time they will be escorting 40 members of the Saddle Brooke Bicycle Club and the Sun City Bike Club on a 18-day biking and sightseeing tour! The trip includes all airfare, deluxe lodging, meals, bicycle rental and sag support, plus fun activities like a Milford Sound Cruise, sea kayaking, swimming with dolphins, wine tours and much, much more! 

There's room for only 10 more cyclists. Any interested GABA Members are welcome to join them on this fantastic trip scheduled for Nov. 18-Dec. 5, 2002, with an optional post-tour North Island extension, or a 2-day Fiji stop-over. For more  information, call Gloria at 825-2757 (days) or 825-1698 (eves).

John  Farr  Memorial Desert  Double  Century

Saturday,  March  30th,  2002

Registration Time:  Starts at 5 AM.

Ride Starting Time:  Riders must be on the road by 5:30 AM

Starting Point:   To be announced after you register.

Options:

Double Century:  200 miles 

Double Metric Century: 125 miles

This year, we offer the "traditional" loop thru the Tohono O'Odham Nation for a Double Century, plus an out and back option for a Double Metric Century (specific details on this option provided to those interested).

Terrain:

The course is fairly flat, except for a few long gentle gradual climbs, for example to Sells and to Quijotoa, and over a couple of small hills between Quijotoa and Arizona City.  The final 50 miles are totally flat!

Course:

The Double Century course is a giant Loop, going west on Ajo Rd. towards Three Points; then continuing west gradually climbing to the base of Kitt Peak, a majestic mountain looming above you at 6,875 feet high! After you crest (the base, of course!), it is downhill to the town of Sells, elevation 2,360 ft.  Now you can see the outline of Baboquivari Peak, a sacred mountain to the

Tohono Indians, ele­vation 7,730 feet towering above all the other mountains.  Along the way, enjoy a lush desert in full bloom with a great variety of wild-flowers!

After Sells, continue west and down for a while, then gradually climb to Quijotoa, elevation 2, 024 ft.  Here, riders will turn north and cycle in fairly flat terrain with mountain ranges in the distance, little traffic and good pavement.

A turn east takes you through the small town of Arizona City.  Then, the course returns south east towards Tucson, via Eloy, Picacho and Marana, back to the starting point.

Safety concerns:

At 5:30 AM on March 30th, the moon should be bright enough to help you see the road.  However, a helmet, a front light and a rear reflector are mandatory, as you'll be riding in the dark for about 45 minutes. The reason for the very "early" start is to make it possible for all riders to finish while there is still daylight.  If you have not finished by sundown, we will pick you up.

Ride Fee: 

$35 member fee before 3/15, postmarked.

$40 for non-members.

After 3/15 add $5 for late fee.

Day of Event:  $55 for members, $60 for non-members.

Included in your fee:

1.  Several SAG STOPS along the course including a Lunch Stop, staffed with smiling volunteers;

2.  Full vehicle support along the 200-mile route, ready to pick you up in case of physical or mechanical failure;

3.  Course map with distances and location of sag stops/stores.

Ride Organizer:  

Suzanne Couvrette, 358-3466 or e-mail: suzancouvr@aol.com  Volunteers are needed and appreciated!  If you can help, please contact Suzanne.

WORDS FROM WAYNE

 Around Europe and now in many places in the US, there is a growing effort to provide children with a way to safely get to and from school.  The organization is known as Safe Routes to Schools.  Here in Tucson, this effort is just getting started.  Aunna Elm, who worked for SRS in Europe, is leading the startup effort.  

SRS addresses some of the basic needs of our children by encouraging walking and/or bike riding to get back and forth to school.  It will increase the fitness level of each participant, as kids are far less active than  when we were their age.  Second, it will increase their safety by increasing their safety awareness and skills.  The program will also increase their confidence and independence by getting them out of cars and buses. And last, it will help the environment in which they live by reducing the amount of air pollution in Tucson. 

Under her guidance, SRS is getting a good start at putting a volunteer committee together, getting some funding to cover startup costs, applying for some grant money and contacting several schools to determine their interest in such a program.  Monthly meetings have been held since early last fall.  

Please come to our club meeting this month and learn more about this very worthwhile effort from Aunna.

Clean Air Fiesta Give Your Car

a Siesta!

 Join in the effort to reduce air pollution and traffic congestion in the Tucson area and maybe win a prize! The "Clean Air Fiesta - Give Your Car a Siesta" offers 29 activities scheduled from March 22nd to April 7th.  For information and to obtain an entry form, call 740-3343 or check the web at http://dot.ci.tucson.az.us

March 9, Saturday:

Oro Valley Pre-fiesta rodeo

Kids! Bike safety and maintenance at CDO Riverfront Park on Lambert Lane from 8:30 to 11:30 AM. Call 229-4896 for info.

March 22, Friday:

4th Avenue Street Fair. (Free Valet Bike Parking, 10 AM to 4 PM at Maloney's parking lot, 213 N. 4th Ave.) 

March 23, Saturday:

4th Avenue Street Fair. (Free Valet Bike Parking, 10 AM to 4 PM at Maloney's parking lot, 213 N. 4th Ave.) 

March 23, Saturday - Easy Ride:

Led by Tucson/Pima Co. Bicycle Advisory Committee.  North parking lot of Himmel Park, 1st Street and Tucson Blvd. at 8 AM. 

March 24, Sunday:

4th Avenue Street Fair. (Free Valet Bike Parking, 10 AM to 4 PM at Maloney's parking lot, 213 N. 4th Ave.) 

March 24, Sunday: ABCs of Bicycling

Bicycling basics for all ages. Kids must be with adults. Himmel Park, north parking lot 1st Street & Tucson Blvd.,11 AM  - 1 PM. 

March 26, Tuesday:

Bike to work or school today.

Oro Valley:  special events, call 229-4896. 

March 27, Wednesday:

Downtown Clean Modes Race and Rally.

Call Shellie at 791-4372 for starting points and information. 

March 27: U of A Bike Registration

For all Tucson residents at the U of A mall from Noon to 2 PM. 

March 28, Thursday: U of A Bike Registration.  For all Tucson residents at the U of A mall from Noon to 2 PM. 

March 30, Saturday: GABA Bike Swap Biggest in the state! From 7 AM to 1 PM on 4th Avenue between 6th and 9th Street. 

March 30, Sat.:  Bike with a Bunny

A short ride through the neighborhoods near the GABA Swap. Meet at Maloney's parking lot while following a bunny on a bike. 

Sun Tran Free Ride with Bike Day

Ride a Sun Tran bus for FREE when you bring your bike (as rack space is avail-able). Call 792-9222 for trip planning. 

April 2, Tuesday:

Bike to work or school today. 

April 6, Saturday:

Oro Valley Bike Ride. Call 229-4896 for info. 

ABCs of Bicycling

Bicycling basics for all ages. Kids must be with adults. Himmel Park, north parking lot near 1st Street & Tucson Blvd., 8 -10 AM. 

April 7, Sunday:  Bike to the Beasts

Ride your bike to the Reid Park Zoo and gain free admittance, 9 AM to 4 PM.  

19th Annual

Answer To The Challenge

April 26, 27 & 28

The "Answer To The Challenge" presents 3 consecutive days of century riding!  Along the way, you'll to climb over 22,000 feet and the weather can range anywhere from cold and wet to hot and dry! 

On Day 1, ride from Scottsdale to Straw-berry with 9,000+ ft of climbing.  On day 2 cycle to Prescott over Mingus Mountain for another 6,600 ft.  Return on Day 3 after the fast descent of Yarnell Hill!   

Wide road between Lake Pleasant and I-10! And no more narrow section on the Bee Line Hwy! Fully supported.  Lodging and meals on your own.  Limited accommodations; early reservations are strongly recommended. 

START: Scottsdale & Shea Blvd., SE corner.

TIME:  5 AM.  Last sag leaves at 6:30 AM.  Slower riders should plan to start early.

INFO:  Dick Landis, 480-839-9383.

REGISTRATION FEE:

GABA Members, $40;  Non-members, $45.

After 4/20, add $5 for late fee.

Please make checks payable to:  Phoenix Metro Bicycle Club and mail to Dick Landis, 2180 E. Southern, Tempe, AZ  85282. (Use Generic pre-registration form on page 15.)

Coming Soon

 Luna Lake Bike Tour

 May 25-27

Fellow bicyclists!  It's approaching spring time!!  The first GABA-Tucson three-day bike ride of the year is scheduled for Memorial Day weekend. 

This ride starts in Springerville.  The first day, we bicycle to Quemado; the second day to Reserve; and the third day back to Springerville. 

This is a great bicycle ride through some beautiful high country. 

Ride Organizer:  Pat James, 825-2469 (day time).  More next month.

Emergency Preparedness

Anyone with a bit of bicycling experience would like to believe that they are prepared for roadside emergencies.  Most all of us carry the essentials necessary to repair a flat with us every time we ride.  Some take this a step further, carrying with them a modicum of tools to handle unexpected mechanical failures - what would you do if you were out riding and broke a chain? 

Being prepared is an important part of cycling.  One area of preparedness that far too many cyclists take for granted is identification.  While it's a subject no one wants to think about, it is something that could be critically important. 

How often do you find yourself riding alone?  Even when riding with a group, in the event of a medical emergency, how many people in that group would know your full name, and more importantly, who to contact? 

I'm not trying to scare anyone here. . . just hope that you will stop and think.  Take a few minutes to fill in the information below.  Cut it out of the newsletter. Laminate it.  Carry it with you when you ride.  Stick it in your wallet or saddlebag or hydration pack.  Put it somewhere obvious so that someone who might need the information can find it.  I hope that you NEVER need it. . . but be prepared!

(Reprinted from the Tailwind Times of GABA Phoenix Metro, Mike Morross, Editor.)

Training for Fast Centuries

By Lisa Marie Dougherty

So you're back on the bicycle again, training for the dawning season.  A list of events have been highlighted on your calendar. Your motivation's high as you visualize yourself among the fastest cyclists, wrapping a century in less than 6 hours. . . maybe even 5 hours!   

How can you get the form to hold such high speeds over 100 miles?  First, remember that the most important facet to training is mental preparation and attitude.  It may help to recognize that 100 miles isn't very far for a long-distance cyclist.  Most pro-cyclists compete in races of 100+ miles, averaging speeds over 25 mph.  

Undoubtedly, the fastest centuries are completed by professional racers whose daily training rides often exceed 100 miles.  So, if you want to increase your average century speed, the best approach is to study the training programs of successful category pro 1-2 racers.   

The primary difference between a 100-mile race and a 100-mile tour is drafting.  In a race, you have a field to cruise with unless you're feeling spunky and take a flyer or fading fast and drop off the back.  Otherwise, you get the pleasure of sucking wheel while saving 30 to 80% of your energy depending on wind conditions and the spread of the cyclist towing you.   

In a century, most riders are recreational so you will spend the bulk of your time battling the wind alone.  Even the fast cyclists often prefer solo riding or lack the skill to safely pace line.  So don't plan on finding a group of experienced, ambitious cyclists to draft at your next century.  Joining a well-oiled pace line at a tour is not unheard of, but it is unlikely.  

Despite this, training like a racer will do more to increase your average speed on centuries than grinding through mega-miles at a steady, moderate pace.  Big miles are certainly necessary when a cyclist is preparing for multi-day events like Paris-Brest-Paris. Such a training tactic, how-ever, will destroy leg speed for shorter distances of 150 miles or less.  It is important to realize that 100 miles is NOT an Ultra Marathon distance, so training like an Ultra Marathon cyclist is not the best way to decrease your century time. 

Training like a road racer will increase power and speed without preparing your body for the huge stress of real ultra-marathon cycling which you won't encounter anyway.  At Ultra Marathon distances, the body must be maintained in a steady state where the cyclist is consuming as many nutrients as he or she is burning up, continuously maintaining a steady flow of energy over many hours or several days.  For shorter distances, the cyclist can upset this balance and consume less on the bicycle.  This allows the body to focus on cycling rather than dividing its energy between digestion and cycling.   

In the next column, I will discuss specific training tips utilized by road racers that can help increase your average century speed.  If you want to do your fastest century, you cannot train like an Ultra Marathon cyclist.  Forget the mega-miles, protein powder and bike lights...grab your gel packets, carbohydrate drink and local cycling buddies.  It's time to train for speed. 

Copyright 1999 by the Ultra Marathon Cycling Association.  All rights reserved.  For more information on the UMCA, go to: http://www.ultracycling.com This article was one of a series on training for faster centuries. Complete series is available at:  www.ultracycling.com/training/centuries

More Tips to Prepare for

Riding a Double Century

by Rich Corbett

Saddle Sores

The three keys here include hygiene, lubricants, and your saddle. 

Hygiene:  Saddle sores often result from fecal bacteria migrating in the moist environment that generally exists in the crotch area, then getting into a skin pore, and causing inflammation.  So, extra care with cleaning yourself after bowel movements is essential.  Final cleaning with a moist antibacterial wipe is advised. 

Lubricants:  The right lubricant cream can help address both bacterial threat and minor friction.  I have used various diaper creams over the years, and they have worked well.  Diaperene, Diaper Guard, and others are all designed to protect skin from fecal encroachment, so they work well for us in preventing saddle sores. 

Your saddle:  The right balance between firmness and shock absorption capability is one that will vary from person to person.  The most general problem with saddles is being too soft.  Softness allows movement at the point of contact between you and the saddle, and cause chafing.  Yet, a saddle that is too hard does not absorb the many "shocks" that are transmitted as we ride along.  I would presume that all of you have found a comfortable saddle that has served you well in riding centuries.  If not, contact me directly: I may be able to help you find a better one. 

Upper Body Comfort

The two major keys here include your position, and bike adjustment. 

Your Position:  A relaxed position with your hands, arms, and shoulders not tensed is critical to upper body comfort on longer rides.  Keeping your elbows bent slightly helps take the load off your shoulders, and especially that area we all know too well, between the shoulder blades, centered on the neck.  It also helps build stronger glutial and abdominal muscles. 

Bike Adjustment:  If your handlebars are too far from the saddle, you will suffer.  The best way to determine the correct distance from your saddle is to get your saddle adjusted well, then sitting on it, with your hands at the top curve of the handlebars, look down at your front hub.  If you cannot see the hub because the center part of the handlebar is blocking your view, then it is where it should be. If you do see the hub behind the handlebar, then your stem is too long, and should be replace.  If you see the hub in front of the handlebar, your stem is too short.  Too short is much easier to tolerate without side effects than too long. 

I hope this information is helpful, and especially, that it helps you to success in the Desert Double on March 30th.

The 2001 World Human Powered Speed Challenge, formerly known as the World's Fastest Bicycle Com-petition, has for the second year in a row