Monday, May 6, at 7 PM Join the Club tonight for a special guest speaker, David Omick
who will share with us stories and pictures of his 8-week, 3,000-mile bike tour of
the northeast U.S. in the summer of 2001.
David did extensive touring of coastal Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, and the Canadian maritime provinces of Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Prince Edward Island.
He cycled two-thirds of his trip solo and rode the rest with a friend.
Come join us for this interesting presentation.
Everybody is welcome!
Monday, June 3rd, 7-9 PM
Please join Bill Borland, Steve Wilson and Donna Lewandowski for a presentation and slide show
of their recent 550-mile unsupported tour from Tucson to Los Angeles
by way of San Diego.
The trip involved a mix of camping and hotels, with a few good hills thrown in
to make things interesting. They will share the story of their planning and preparation
along with pictures and stories from along the route.Everybody is welcome!
GABA Members Ride Deadlines - Pay early and Save money!
Ride Date Ride Name Save $ If postmarked by
5/4 & 5 Salt River Canyon Tour $5 April 24
5/25-27 Luna Lake Bike Tour $10 May 17
6/1 Tour de Payson $5 May 20
6/2 Mt Hopkins Hill Climb Mtn Bike free
6/8 Ice Cream Social free
7/4 Tour For Tucson's Children ?
7/13 & 14 White Mountain Tour $10 July 1
Tucson, Arizona
Mountain Standard Time
MAY
RISE SET
A.M. P.M.
1: 5:38 7:04
7: 5:33 7:08
14: 5:27 7:13
21: 5:23 7:18
28: 5:19 7:23
JUNE
RISE SET
A.M. P.M.
1: 5:18 7:25
7: 5:17 7:28
14: 5:17 7:31
21: 5:18 7:33
28: 5:20 7:34
This very popular and exciting ride had to be canceled this year, due to a tragic accident to the husband of one of the teachers at Sahuarita High School.
Hopefully, the ride will again be organized next year, so plan on it! It's the kind of ride that takes you to a totally different world!
We regret any inconvenience to this year's riders. Each one of you should have received your full refund by now. Any questions, please call Tom Ward, (520) 625-3649.
Options for 100, 65 & 34 miles and 10-Mile Family Fun Ride!
by Richard E "Rich" Corbett
Ride Director
The 2002 Picacho Century was successful again, and even though the weather was just a little colder than in 2001 (a low of 32 both years, and a high of 59 this year vs 60 last year), those who turned out had an enjoyable ride with very little wind. 93 riders registered for the Ride, and 78 actually showed up.
Special thanks are due to the SAG Team, who provided excellent coverage and support for all riders. SAG Coordinator Roy Schoonover organized the coverage, and Lunch SAG Dick and Caroline Schaffer worked that spot for the 3rd year. Mary Calleson, Sue Hunt and Kate Turnbull also gave riders excellent and friendly SAG service. Norm Martin (K7OLD) and Ron Jones (W7AI) provided additional radio SAG service, keeping careful track of where our riders were, especially in the afternoon as riders were finishing up.
All riders received a special Picacho head scarf 1/2 bandanna, and a Dairy Queen Dilly Bar, in addition to the usual SAG snack goodies and scrumptious lunch fixings.
All in all, 2002 was another successful year for the essentially flat Picacho Century, thanks to the combined efforts of the folks listed above, plus the blessing of good weather!
Maybe Next Month!
Dick did not send it to me this month1
By Pam Cullop
On March 23rd, the 2nd “Annual GABA Picnic” took place. We all met at Himmel Park for a barbecue and potluck picnic. The sky was clear, but the spring breezes made their predictable appearance. However, aside from chasing after a plate of sliced tomatoes, and various paper-ware items, the wind was not too bothersome.
I cannot speak for the “chefs”: Garry Segerman, Dick Forcier, Dick Schaffer, Mark Levine (until game time) and Wayne Cullop. They may have another story to tell, as one does not easily cope with embers blowing in the midst of cooking chicken, hamburgers and hot dogs over the open barbecue! If they were frustrated, they should rest easy knowing that the “end product” was not only quickly consumed, but also tremendously enjoyed!
A BIG Thanks to Garry Segerman and to AnnMarie Guerena-Fraijo (our new Social Director), who were able to fill in for me as Head Volunteer on a moment’s notice, to make sure this picnic would happen. A family urgency kept me out of town for 5 weeks prior to the picnic. In fact, my plane did not arrive in Tucson until 10 PM on the 21st, just in time to partake in the fun! All it took was a long-distance phone call to Garry to fill him in on the details, and he and AnnMarie were off and running – you two are the greatest!
Thanks also to Sheryl Mueller who surprised us by coming to the park early to help set up, and stayed to help take it down…what a gal!
Almost everyone who came, pitched in to help with some aspect of the day. We certainly appreciate you too!
To all of you who did come, we hope you enjoyed the day as much as we did. If you weren’t able to make it this year, we look forward to seeing you in 2003!
Bike Friday New World Tourist folding travel bike. Fits rider 5'6" to 6'2". Triple crank, H handlebars, bar-end shifters, rear rack. Excellent condition, $650 OBO. Giant OCR Elite 0 road bike, large frame, LN, $750 OBO. Bridgestone X0-1, 52cm, EC, $450. Two 36-hole, 26-inch Sun Ryno rims, EC, $10 set; mtn wheels, 32-hole, seven speed, EC $25. Tom Veljic, 520-219-1675 (Tuc), tveljic@yahoo.com
Klein Performance 22" aluminum frame 21-speed cruising bike. Asking $350, mint condition. Bianchi Limited 55cm (22") chromemoly steel frame, 12-speed road bike. Asking $250, like new. Must see to appreciate. Dave Lewis, 520-884-7772 (Tuc) or dlewistcsn@qwest.net
Wheeler 5100 race bike. 60cm 7005 series aluminum frame. Shimano 105 and RX100 STI group. Triple chain ring. Looks like new and has less than 500 miles. $450 OBO. Giant Allegre road bike, 54 or 56cm (not 100% sure) steel frame. Shimano 105 and 600 STI group. Great for the beginner "roady" or serious commuter. $400 OBO. Andy, 520-740-5317 (Tuc) or pdlawyer@hotmail.com
Bolle Vigilante sunglasses, black frame, TNS gray lens, brand new, never been used, $40; Specialized Euro ATB Sports shoes, 44 mens, black-gray color, like-new cond., $20. Arthur, (Tuc) 520-624-9961.
Rideshare Wanted. Driving to Flagstaff for 1-2 days, then returning to Tucson? Beam me up! Non-smoker, share expenses, room for road bike preferable but not essential, flexible on time/dates. Arthur, (Tuc) 520-624-9961.
- Classified Ad Space -
FREE for GABA members! ONLY for members!
Submit to Editor WITH YOUR FULL NAME at:
suzancouvr@aol.com or by fax: 325-4272.
During the April 8 Board meeting of the GABA Board of Directors, a new Logo was reviewed and discussed. With an unanimous vote, it was agreed that the Club will begin to use it immediately.
Dick Schaffer announced that the new club jerseys would be available for sale at the Sonoita-Bisbee ride and thereafter, at $50 for sleeved jerseys and $47 for sleeveless, all available in sizes from small to XX large.
Respectfully Submitted
Sandi Rousseau, Secretary
By Dick Schaffer, Educational Director
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 Tuesday, August 13 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.
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!
Spend Memorial Weekend cycling a moderately difficult ride on some of the least traveled roads in the cool mountains of Eastern Arizona and Western New Mexico! The great Luna Lake Bike Tour - offered for many years by GABA-Tucson - is back again!
Day 1: 48 miles. Springerville, AZ to Quemado, NM Check in at the Safeway parking lot in Springerville, from 8 to 9 AM. Then, ride 48 miles on rolling hills to Quemado, New Mexico. Lunch will be served just before a cyclist's dream: an 8-mile fast descent into Quemado! Camping & showers at the Quemado High School will be available.
Day 2: 55 miles. Quemado, NM to Reserve, NM Pedal on a lightly-traveled road through the Gallo Mountains. The 1st SAG stop is at the top of the climb; then a thrilling descent to Apache Corners for lunch! Continue on to Reserve, our destination for the day. If 55 miles is not enough for you, there's an optional side trip to the Continental Divide, adding 32 more miles. Camping & showers on the grounds of the Village Motel will be available.
Day 3: 62 miles. Reserve, NM to Springerville, AZ This is the most challenging day! The first SAG stop is at Luna Summit, top of the day's major climb! A 2nd SAG stop is at Luna Lake. A 3rd SAG stop will offer emergency refueling and plenty of re-hydration.
Registration Fee:
Members, $60. Non-members, $65.
Late fee: $10 if postmarked after 5/17.
Optional meals - MUST be pre-paid!
Dinner in Quemado: $ 7.50
Breakfast in Quemado: $ 7.00
Dinner in Reserve: $12.50
Breakfast in Reserve: $ 7.50
(Meals must be paid in advance.)
DAY OF EVENT: Members, $75; non, $80.
Use Luna Lake Registration Form on page 15.
Your Fee Includes: Luggage transport; 2 SAG Stops with food and water on each day with a 3RD SAG stop added on Day 3; camping & showers at the High School in Quemado on Saturday night, and at the Village Motel in Reserve on Sunday night. At the end of the ride in Springerville, two rooms will be available for showers at the Rode Inn, so you can go home refreshed.
4 Optional Catered Meals at an extra cost - must be pre-paid.
On Saturday evening at Quemado High School, a Mexican dinner will be offered for $7.50, to benefit the school's 4-H Club. The following morning at 6 AM, a pancakes, eggs, etc. breakfast will be served at the High School for $7.00.
On Sunday evening in Reserve, the Elk Country Cafe will host a all-you-can-eat spaghetti dinner for $12.50.
On Monday morning, the Elk Country Cafe will offer a cyclist breakfast for $7.50. (See registration form on page 15 to pre-pay for these meals with your ride fee.)
Please send in registrations ASAP to assist us in adequately in preparing for a well-supported ride. This remote area has few supermarkets!
Ride Leaders: Pat & Dennis James, 520-825-2469 or djamesgang@comcast.net
Last minute registrants MUST call Pat NO LATER THAN MONDAY, MAY 20 at 9 PM to participate!
AREA MOTELS
Springerville
Rode Inn (877) 220-6553, (928) 333-4365
Super 8 (800) 800-8000, (928) 333-2655
Quemado
Allison (505) 773-4550
The Largo (505) 773-4686
Allegre (505) 773-4520
Reserve
Rode Inn (505) 533-6661
Village Motel (505) 533-6600
With the warm winter and our current dry spell, there has been an increase in the number of animal encounters. As bicyclists, we are outdoors more, riding early in the morning or with lights in the evening, and we have an opportunity to see more wildlife than most other locals!
I have seen many creatures on the road including fox, coyote, many snakes and even a Gila monster. I saw a bear (a big bear) on the Luna Lake ride several years ago. I have had a javalina family cross directly in front of me one morning before daylight. I also had a rabbit race me for a short distance before deciding that being a foot in front of my wheel was just too exciting!
But the most interesting incident occurred about three years ago as I was along Tanque Verde Loop going out to ride up Freeman Road. When the weather is warm, Tanque Verde Loop is a stretch of heaven along the Tanque Verde Wash. Because of the wash, there are large trees providing lots of shade and noticeably cooler temperatures; many people have goats, horses, dogs and other animals around there.
This particular morning was indicating that the day was going to be very hot. I had finished a water bottle and was changing the water bottles around when I realized that I was being stalked! I noticed that a grayish cat had come out the bushes and squatted down in a shady spot on the other side of the road, never taking its eyes off me. What was going on in that cat's mind? Was I a bird, mouse or some other creature cats like to hunt?
As I got closer the cat tensed up, leaped up and gave chase. It only took a few turns on the cranks before the cat broke off the chase. I wondered: was hunting down a bicyclist on that cat's top ten list of things to do?
Ramada #19 NW corner of Reid Park
(Country Club & Camino Campestre)
Day Rides will be starting from Reid Park - before the ice cream is delivered - and returning in time to get your deserved share of scrumptious icy delight!
Bring friends or family members to enjoy the "food" and the "fun"! If they sign up as a New Member that day, you will get $5 off of your next membership renewal price.
Great opportunity to visit with fellow cyclists that you may not get a chance to see all of the time, or to meet new cyclists!
Reid Park will have something for everyone - before and after the ice cream!
For those who want to ride their bikes before the ice cream, here's the details:
40-Mile Ride Meet at 6:30 AM
25-Mile Ride Meet at 7:30 AM
9-Mile Ride Meet at 8:30 AM
All rides will start in the parking lot close to Ramada #19, NW corner of Reid Park. Watch for GABA signs.
By Pam Cullop & Sheryl Mueller
There are many ways you can improve your Club: learn a new skill and work behind the scenes at many of our bicycling events and social activities!
The amount of time you can devote is entirely up to you. Maybe only an hour of packet stuffing over a weekend night, or a couple of hours of helping with event registration on ride day! But there is something for everyone: choose what is most comfortable for you!
If you're looking for an out-of-town experience or overnight trip, we welcome you to the Blue Loop, Salt River, Sonoita-Bisbee or Luna Lake Tours. On overnight tours, Your mileage, meals and motel expenses will be paid for, compliments of GABA-Tucson.
And there's our annual week-long Almost Across Arizona Tour. You can either help before the ride in the planning stages with the Committee and get your ride fee, expenses, meals and lodging free.
If you are a real "people-person", you might decide you would rather work during this week-long ride; meeting people from all over the U. S., Canada and even some from overseas. It is a "working" job, which not only pays expenses, meals and lodging, but a small ride salary as well. Many who sign up to work this tour, consider it a fun vacation package deal!
Becoming a Board member-in-training is also a good way to volunteer. Pick a department/position on the Board and learn the ropes! Your ideas and suggestions are always welcome. The Board of Directors is elected at the end of every year. Vacancies fill fast! Board members can ride Fee-free on overnight tours or century rides.
And, of course, becoming a ride leader-in-training is another way to help the Club! It's educational! Take a crash course and avoid a crash. As you learn to ride safely, you'll also learn how to ride within groups, and fix flats. Pass along what you learn to other ride leaders in training. To better your skills, attend one of the many work-shops scheduled at several Tucson Libraries.
Your participation can make all GABA events more exciting & rewarding! Promote a fun-fill, healthy, alternative mode of transportation in our community.
Other ways to participate to improve "your" Club:
Host/tess the GABA Booth at: Tour of Tucson Mtns, El Tour de Tucson, Spring & Fall Bike Swaps or 4th of July Family Fun Ride.
Sell Raffle Tickets.
Serve Refreshments.
Mail Invitations.
Provide Articles for Newsletter.
Recommend a safety tip.
Write a letter to the editor.
Bring a friend to the Club Meeting.
Fill out a Road Improvement Survey.
Help shopping for SAG stop food.
Registration volunteer.
Map Making.
Provide temporary housing for guest cyclists.
Photographer & Videographer.
Help with Ride Packet Stuffing.
Let's not forget the very important of "Baggage Truck Driver"! If you like driving large trucks; are physically able and willing to do some heavy lifting; and enjoy visiting with a variety of people, this job could be for you. The Bag trucks carry camping gear and motel luggage for GABA's overnight tours. He may also set out refreshments at camping sites, and must keep SAG stations well supplied!
SAG Stop Attendant: Meet, greet, and encourage the efforts of the bicycle-riding participants as you provide food and water on one of the many GABA Century and Overnight rides offered.
Course Sweep: Is safety important to you? Consider this most worthwhile position by driving the en-route courses on the lookout for cyclists in need of assistance; mark the roadways of possible dangers; transport riders and bicycles; keep track of riders on the course; and keep ride crew informed of bicyclists' location on the ride.
And, what is needed at an event like the GABA Pot Luck Picnic? The "Set up and Take Down" skills! Someone needs to be in charge of: tables, shade tent, cooking supplies GABA signs, plates & plastic ware, 5-gallon igloos full of water, ice chest heavy with cold goodies! Cooking skills are also very welcome! Help barbecue!
How about some help at GABA Ice Cream Socials? We need people to sign up new members, set up tables and chairs, serve ice cream, lead day of event rides, plan games and activities!
The GABA Holiday Party will need help to decorate the room and set up for the party; prepare and serve food; and line up entertainment!
As you can see, there is something do to for every member in this Club! Step up to the plate and do your share! What makes a great Club is its members! Some only ride, some only help, and some do both sometimes!
This ride is not for the faint of heart! It will require all the strength that your legs have, and then some!
Imagine climbing 5,000 feet on a fairly steep dirt road for the first 7 miles, then continuing on a steeper paved road for the last 5 miles to the summit, where the grade then gets very steep for the last 1/2 mile! Come enjoy this ride and find out for yourself if it is that hard!
Meet at 6 AM at Whipple Visitor Center. Directions: from Tucson, drive south on I-19 past Green Valley. Exit at Canoa Rd. and continue south on the EAST frontage road to Elephant Head Rd. Turn LEFT here and continue for a mile or so until you see Hopkins Rd. Turn RIGHT and continue up this road approx. 6 miles until you reach Whipple Visitor Center.
Park your car here and drag your mountain bike out: you are about to find out what mountain biking is all about! Bring plenty of WATER and energy food! Don't forget to remember the rewards of fantastic 360 degree views at the top, as you sweat and grind mile after mile! And, don't go too fast downhill: watch for the occasional car coming up.
Ride leader: Tom Ward, 625-3649 or e-mail him at twardasso@dakotacom.net
There is a wonder to this ride that is hard to explain. Over the years, it has justly earned the reputation of being one of the very best bicycling tours in the Southwest. If you've ridden it before, you know what it is like - if you haven't participated, there's much to look forward to. Attracting even out-of-state riders, it has become so popular that it is recommended that you REGISTER EARLY!
WHEN AND WHERE?
The ride starts at the Navopache Electric Company parking lot located at 1878 White Mountain Blvd. in Lakeside. This is also Highway 260. Take 260 from Show Low going to Pinetop & Lakeside. The facility is on the left side of the road. We have permission to park cars there for the weekend though other facilities there are limited (go to the bathroom BEFORE you arrive at the start!). Registration starts at 6:30 AM on Saturday the 13th, and closes PROMPTLY at 8 AM. Try to start early! We should have the luggage to the motels and campground by 1 PM.
WHAT AND HOW LONG IS THE ROUTE?
The route follows Hwy 260 into Show Low and then takes Hwy 60 towards Springer-ville. The return route on Sunday is Hwy 260 all the way back to the starting point. Both days are hilly, as the terrain is mountainous. The ride distances are 57 miles on Saturday with 2 rest stops (NEW THIS YEAR: 100-mile option on SATURDAY!), and 43 miles on Sunday with one rest stop at the top of the 15-mile climb (just before you begin the 28-mile descent back to Lakeside!).
WHAT ABOUT MEALS?
You're on your own Friday night. Saturday night's dinner is included in the ride fee, and is prepared by Springerville residents who know what hungry cyclists like to eat! Snacks are available at the end of the ride on Sunday. There's also plenty of fine eating establishments in the Lakeside/Pinetop/ Show Low area.
WHERE DO PEOPLE STAY IN SPRINGERVILLE?
You can camp at the Round Valley Middle School. The camping fee includes hot showers and toilet facilities. You can sleep on the hard gymnasium floor or tent it outside the school. There are several hotels in the area with real beds, but make your reservations early as the tour just about fills them up. They can be reached by calling in Springerville: 1-928-333 then
El Jo Motor Inn 4314
Reeds Motor Lodge 4323
Super 8 Motel 2655
Rode Inn 4365
in adjoining Eager:
Best Western 2540
Lots of accommodations in the Show Low/ Pinetop/Lakeside area for those wanting to come up early on Friday or staying overnite on Sunday: check the GABA website at www.sportsfun.com/gaba/ for a list.
Ride Fee:
GABA/ABC members $45.00
Non-members $50.00
Camping Fee $ 7.00
Late Fee(after 7/1) $10.00
Mail completed entry form/waiver (on page 15 of Update) and check made payable to PHOENIX METRO BICYCLE CLUB, PO BOX 26788, TEMPE, AZ 85285-6788.
Confirmations (via e-mail OR snail mail) will be sent to pre-registered riders. LIMITED to the first 200 registered riders, SO SIGN UP EARLY!!!!!
Ride Organizer: Mike Morross For more info, contact MIKE at 480-654-1950 or via e-mail at RIDE010101@aol.com
The 2002 edition of this ride will take place on Sunday, May 19. Depending upon your route and driving habits, Santa Fe is only a 8-10 hour drive, and the ride is well worth the trip. Altitude junkies, take note - Santa Fe proper sits at about 7,000 feet!
There are route options of 25, 50, 75 and 100 miles, as well as a 50-mile MTB route that actually has some dirt roads on it! The ride, now in its 17th year, starts and finishes at Capshaw School on the edge of Santa Fe, where a pre-ride pancake breakfast and post-ride pasta lunch are offered. The century route in particular offers some nice challenges for those of you inclined to climb.
More details can be found at www.santafecentury.com
A record field of nearly 600 riders started the 17th annual edition of the Southwest's most popular stage race, the Tucson Bicycle Classic! An international field was on hand for the elite men and women field, including pro teams Mercury, Jelly Belly, Rona, Tecos-Turbo and Choco-Andean-Eco Coffee.
The Women's race looked to be an interesting showdown between the storied veteran Jeannie Longo and Rona sensation Genevieve Jeanson. Jeanson set a blistering pace on the picturesque McCain Loop 3.0 mile prologue, turning in a 7:12, 46 seconds ahead of the 2001 TT World Champion Longo, riding for Vitíalli. Elizabeth Emery (New Mexico VeloSport) followed with 8:04, :52 back. Although the elite men had heavier winds later in the day, Jeanson's time would have been good enough for 7th in the men's field!
The anticipated Stage 2 battle between Longo and Jeanson was set for the Gates Pass 63 mile RR, a 21-mile loop with rollers, winds and a 3-mile climb finishing out at 12%!
Jeanson, after taking the QOM 10 second time bonus on lap one with Longo in tow, continued to ride 15 to 20 seconds in front of the pack. Like last year, she launched one of her patented solo attacks and the field was unable to respond and the young phenom from Montreal built up an 8+ minute gap by lap 2! Her 3 Rona teammates neutralized any chase attempts and increased swirling winds began to splinter the women's peloton into 5 groups. Averaging a wicked pace of 24.7 MPH, Jeanson soloed in at 2:33:20, 10:26 ahead of New Zealand champion and teammate Melissa Holt, followed by Susan Haywood (Trek/VW) and Longo.
"I am not race fit as the other girls are. I am in Arizona to visit friends and work on my book about fitness", confessed Longo after stage 2.
With Jeanson in the yellow jersey and a lead of 11:43 over teammate Holt, the Rona team plan was to get another teammate on both the stage and overall podiums. The 45 mile Artisan Prosthetic Circuit Race proved to be icing on the cake for the Rona squad. On lap 1 of 8, Longenecker launched an attack with Patricia Choo (Helen's/Trek/VW) in tow. After flatting, Choo lost contact and Jeanson quickly bridged to her teammate, followed later by Holt. In vintage Longo fashion, she whipped the peloton into a short chase on lap 6, but the field was content to stay intact for the final sprint. The Rona hat trick finished joining hands 7:05 ahead of the field and the remaining Rona member, Canadian Amy Jarvis took the field sprint. The sprint bonuses and large gap moved stage 3 winner Longenecker ahead of Longo for the final GC podium.
With Jeanson once again dominating the Women's Arizona racing scene this spring, her race fitness and confidence has her ready to do more carnage on the national scene!
In the Pro/1-2 men's race, an overflow field of 105 began the McCain Loop TT in the scenic Tucson Mountain Park late in the afternoon with wind gusts of 25 mph! A full squad from Mercury featuring Tucson residents Gord Fraser and Phil Zajiech along with Michael Sayers and Adham Sbeih were set to do battle with the Mariano Friedick-led Jelly Belly squad, the aggressive Mexican pro teams of Tecos-Turbo and Tecel Speedbikes and the Arizona-based Landis/ Trek/VW squad.
As he did in the 1999 Classic, Fraser set a record in the new 3.1 mile prologue course, which features 1.5 miles of 6% climbs, at 6:48, followed by teammate Sbeih at :11 back and Friedick at :12 back. Mercury took 4 of the top ten spots, Jelly Belly claimed two and Landis/Trek would see its only top-ten placing of the race with Scott Price in 6th, :20 back.
"I love this course because it's a thinking man's TT and it suits my style of riding" said Fraser.
Once again, he set the tone for the next two stages in the leader's jersey with a full squad of support.
As the epic 105-mile stage 2 Gates Pass RR began, the winds went from bad to worse, gusting at 40 mph! Fraser and Zajiceh took the two crucial KOM time bonuses on lap one with the peloton dangling behind. On the 4 mile descent a two man break escaped including Jelly Belly and Tecos Turbo riders and was quickly joined by Zajiech. Even as the break had moved over 4 minutes clear of the peloton by lap 3 of 5, Mercury's presence neutralized the efforts of the hardworking remaining two.
On the uphill section of Ajo Way, Mercury began the push into worsening "pack-crusher" cross/headwinds! Aided by several large crashes and a torrid pace, the 20-strong chase included young upstart Jacob Erker (Pharmacia), 5 Mercury riders including Fraser, Zajiech, Sayers, Sbeih and Lechuga, 5 Jelly Belly riders including strong riding Friedick and several from the Tecel-Speedbikes, Tecos-Turbo and Landis squads.
"Our goal was to force the other riders into a decision to be a part of the chase or not during the forced pace into the winds", said Fraser. The break was caught on lap 4; the tempo and wind conditions left the field shattered into more than 10 groups. A lead group of 13 crested Gates Pass 3 minutes clear of the chasing packs on the last lap.
As the sprint started at the bottom of the final hill, Erker jumped to the right and was quickly followed by 5 others, including Ubaldo Mesa (Teco-Turbo), David Saloman (Tecel-Speedbikes) and Fraser with Friedrick glued to his wheel. With 200 meters, Sayers lead out Fraser in a thrilling headwind sprint, who took the stage victory at 4:20:50, while Mesa just nipped Friedick at the line for second.
Calm winds and 75 degree weather greeted the beginning of stage 3, the Artisan Prosthetics 56-mile Circuit Race. After Fraser and Friedick took the 1-2 time bonus on lap 3, a two-man break took off, gaining two minutes on the pack after lap 6. The Mercury-lead chase effort caught the break after 3 laps and a group of 20 finished :12 clear of the 30-man pack, with Fraser winning another thrilling sprint, completing his 3-stage hat-trick and overall GC victory! Friedick took second once again, followed by Sayers.
Fraser and the Mercury squad felt the Classic victory has helped build team's confidence and fitness after early season near misses at Redlands, Sea Otter and other national calendar events.
"I couldn't ask for a better situation to come back and win a challenging race in my hometown with my team" said Fraser in a post-race interview. He enjoyed the tough competition from Friedick, whom he said "is riding stronger on the road than ever after a sensation early spring campaign".
Limited to 100 riders!
Brought to you by the Phoenix Metro Bicycle Club and Manzanita Cyclery of Payson.
Join the Phoenix Metro Bicycle Club, with our hosts Manzanita Cyclery of Payson and fellow cyclists from the Rim Country, for a tour of the Payson area at the base of the Mogollon Rim. Then, stay in town for a lunch on the patio of the Mogollon Grill and spend the afternoon/evening enjoying the June Bug Blues Festival at the Payson Event Center/Rodeo Grounds.
Here's what we have lined up - so far:
A tour route around and outside the Town of Payson, with plenty of pine trees and cooler-than-the-Valley temperatures! The full route (45-50 miles) has hills, and varies in altitude between 4,700 and 5,800 feet, so triple chain rings, mountain gearing and/or strong legs are recommended! This route includes a 10-mile out/back spur on beautiful and challenging Houston Mesa Road, running NE from Payson towards the Rim.
Shorter route options will be available.
Sag support will be provided by PMBC and local volunteer guides.
A post ride lunch will be provided by the Mogollon Grill on their shady outdoor patio.
The June Bug Blues Festival has graciously donated three pairs of tickets for a drawing, as well as discounted entry for all other riders.
The Inn of Payson has stepped up as sponsoring hotel, and offers $79/night base room rates. Due to the Blues Festival demand, please reserve early to ensure a room!
Start/Finish will be at Sawmill Theaters Parking Lot, intersection of Beeline Hwy and Main St.
There will be a first-year limit of 100 participants, so please register early by filling out and returning the form below. For additional information, e-mail marco3@cox.net or call Bob Beane at 480-961-1951.
"Tour de Payson - 2002"
Ride Fee
PMBC/GABA/ABC Members: $10
Non-Member fee: $15
Optional lunch: $ 7
Late fee after 5/20 $ 5
"Tour de Payson - 2002"
Registration Form
(one rider per registration)
Mail to: PMBC,
PO Box 26788, Tempe, AZ 85285-6788
Name: _________________________
Address: _______________________
City, St., Zip: ____________________
Phone: _________________________
E-mail: ________________________
I am a member of (Club) ____________
PMBC/GABA/ABC Members: $10 _____
Non-Member fee: $15 _____
Optional lunch: $ 7 _____
Late fee after 5/20 $ 5 _____
Total money sent: $ ____
Rider signature/Date:
________________________/______
(By signing above, I agree to sign a liability waiver prior to participating in the "Tour de Payson". I understand that I am not, nor is any minor child, registered as a participant in this event until a legally valid waiver signature has been provided. Furthermore, I understand that this event is a scenic tour, not a race, conducted primarily on public streets, and that I am subject to Arizona laws with respect to my participation both on and off the road.)
Special thanks to GABA and to all the Great TBC Sponsors!
With a record turnout of over 550 riders from around the world, the 17th annual edition of the TBC was a huge success. Entrants included the greatest woman cyclist ever, Jeannie Longo, 2001 TBC champ and 21 year-old Montreal phenom Genevieve Jeanson, Mercury's premier sprinter and Tucson's own Gord Fraser as well as national champions from 16 to 70 years old. The TBC puts over $500,000 into the Tucson economy every year and it would not be possible without the generous support the following sponsors:
Artisan Prosthetics, Mission Tucson, GABA, Ordinary Bikes, El Tour de Tucson, Chipotle, Time Market, Alta Transportation in assoc. with Matt Zoll and Lifeline Chiropractic
Also, special thanks to:
Curtis Lueck and Associates, Inn Suites Hotels , Casas Church, Timeless Pieces, Academy of Physical Therapy, Clear Water Systems, Old Tucson, The Legend Group/ James Leos, Burns Wald-Hopkins, Architects, Multi-Sport Madness, Old Tucson and Tuller Trophy
This year's race was dedicated in memory of Arnold "Balt" Balthazar, whose presence is missed in Tucson and on the Le Scomparse team. Special thanks to Le Scomparse and Revolution Racing/Bicycles West Racing Teams for their awesome support, the volunteers and all of the great spectators.
The TBC supports the Brad P. Gorman Memorial Fund and donated $2000 to the Tucson Centers for Women, helping to end the domestic violence cycle in our community. Special thanks to GABA again for their support and coverage of the race.
Sincerely,
Steve Bohn, TBC Race Director
By Greg Yares, Swap Coordinator
Who would have thought, 10 years ago, that the GABA-Tucson Bike Swap would take off like a rocket and grow to tremendous proportions, with vendors galore and bargain hunters by the thousands!
If you missed this year's Bike Swap, not to worry! The next semi-annual Bike Swap is already scheduled for Saturday, November 16th. Plan on being there!
Special Thanks to the 4th Avenue Merchants for providing the venue with necessary barricades and permits.
Thanks to the City of Tucson for printing the Bike Swap Flyers;
Many GABA volunteers did participate during the course of the day and we want to recognize them: Roy Schoonover, Chris & Ram Salcedo; Dick Schaffer; Bill Borland; Bill Dakel; Sandi Rousseau. If we missed naming anyone else who contributed, we are now thanking you also!
See you on November 16th!
By Suzanne Couvrette
We couldn't have picked a better day! At 5 AM at Cortaro Farms Rd. & I-10, the temperatures were very mild, as a faint glow could be seen towards the east. Fourteen determined riders showed up, ready to do their "Personal Best"!
As dawn lit the sky with a shades of pink and gold, riders were riding north on the frontage road towards Avra Valley Rd., where they headed west. The pace was fast and there were already pacelines!
One more turn south on Sandario, a gentle climb for a few miles, and then a very long gradual descent towards Ajo Rd. By now the sun has risen, there is a slight headwind, and riders are really cranking the miles!
At Ajo Rd., the various small groups made their way towards the west with Kitt Peak looming at the horizon, and Baboquivari dominating the skyline for miles. After cresting at the base of Kitt Peak, riders were treated to a long descent to Sells.
By now, it has gotten warmer. No more need of wind jackets, lights, batteries, leg and arm warmers! The groups are still fairly close together, but the stronger riders are already getting way ahead of the slower riders.
After the turn north at Quijotoa, riders get some welcome help from mother nature: a tail wind is generally helping cyclists keeping their furious pace!
The rest is history! The ride went well and it was a pleasure to follow them with our sag vehicles. As volunteers leapfrogged along the course, everyone got water and food to fuel their cycling frenzy!
Thanks to all the volunteers who helped along the course: Jack and Dorothy Beiler, Julie Arndt & Peter Medford, Mike & Kari Angeley and Derrek Grooms.
We all got to use cell phones, which were a great help on such a long course! What did we do before cell phones?
Every rider was pleased with his/her time and most will come back next year! It takes a commitment to training year-round when a cyclist want to achieve 200 miles, but all the riders seemed to have this desire to find out what they can really do and how far they can really go!
Announcing
Sunday, May 12th
7 AM to NOON
In downtown Prescott, near the Court House
Free to buyers and sellers!
Organized by the Prescott
Bicycle Advisory Committee.
For more information,
call 928-636-7481.
By Sheryl Mueller
SAG: Support and Gear. Support for physical or mechanical needs.
SWEEP: Guardian Angels driving the course; paying special attention to riders' needs; placing hazard cones wherever there may be a potential road hazard. It usually takes 2 drivers; one in front, one in back.
SAG STOP: A shaded area (hard to come by in the desert) where water and refreshments are served to exhausted cyclists.
PACE LINE: 3 or more cyclists breaking wind. Actually, this is a technique for riding into the wind. By rotating riders to the front of a single line, every rider gets to pull the pack. Riders behind the leader get to rest until their turn up front.
OUT & BACK COURSE: Ride to the turn-around point and return on the same route.
1. Decide how you want to ride. Will it be recreational, cross country, bike to work commutes, city & bike path, touring or club rides, centuries, criteriums or triathlons?
2. Choose the right frame. Consider handling, comfort, efficiency, weight and durability.
3. Find out what size bike you need. Check the wheels, suspension and components.
4. Get fitted properly. How tall or long is the bike compared to your height.
5, Purchase needed accessories such as water bottles, gloves, bike shorts, helmet, flat pack and tire pump.