21st Annual Answer to the Challenge
18th Annual Tour of the Tucson Mountains
13th Annual El Tour de Phoenix
Allen Larsen: Ultracyclist of 2003
Tucson-Pima County Bicycle Advisory Committee
24th Annual Grand Canyon to Tucson
19th Annual Tucson Bicycle Classic Update
Ride Leaders Accident Guidelines
Monday, April 5 at 7 PM
Let's welcome Sue Wenberg, long time GABA member and World Traveler! She will shares with us slides and stories of her recent bike tour in Estonia and Latvia, in the Baltic States of western Europe, with details of camping on beaches and in forests, feasting on wild berries and mushrooms, and more! Everybody is welcome!
Monday, May 3 at 7PM
Join us for an informative presentation
by Greg Hockensmith, well-known handcyclist, about his experiences at the world
championship last year! Come on over and join the fun! Everybody is
welcome!
By Ram Salcedo, Bike Shops Coordinator
Doug and Roberta Toussaint nearly packed the house at the March meeting! Anyone else going to ride across America in 37 days?
Thanks to Jessie and Gary Menard at Tucson Bikes for the door prizes. Congrats to winners, Garry Segerman, Dick Schaffer and Marty Gawlik. Safe riding - see you soon!
By: Steve Wilson - GABA President
Sometimes we lose track of the notion that bicycles can be used for more than
just a weekend group ride and racing. The warm spring weather makes it nice to
use the bicycle for errands and provides other opportunities to leave the car at
home.
A favorite for Donna and I is going out to dinner in the university area. It;s
very nice to head down the 15 miles in the evening light, have a nice dinner on
University or 4th Avenue and then head back home in the cool air. With a nice
headlight and rear red flasher we're ready to go. It makes for guilt free eating
and it's always nice to see the look of surprise on people's faces when you walk
in to the restaurant with the bike duds on. It's helpful to scope out the
intended restaurant ahead of time to see if there is a good place to lock or
store your bike, and to bring appropriate locks.
GABA meetings are another opportunity to get in a good ride. I know many riders
are unnerved by the thought of riding the city streets in the evening, but we
find that drivers tend to give us more room in the dark. Especially with the
tandem pulling the trailer full of meeting stuff, they can't really tell what
the heck they are following until they get close.
This is a good time of year to try out commuting to work or school by bike. Not
too cold at night and not too hot during the day, and the days get longer every
week. If you've thought about it but haven't quite got around to doing it, now
is the time to give it a try.
Most people worry about how they will look when they get to work. It's usually
easy to take care of this with some advanced planning. If you wear nice clothes
that can't be easily transported by bike, one option is to drive on Monday and
take a week's worth of clothes in and store them in your office. On Friday you
take all of the dirty clothes home. Tuesday through Thursday you have a nice
ride in and back home. Otherwise a simple backpack or set of small panniers will
usually suffice to take a day's worth of clothes back and forth. One suggestion
for lightening the load is to leave a pair of normal shoes at the office. Shoes
take up lots of space and can weigh more than your clothes. Bike commuting will
improve your health, help the environment, and most importantly - let you eat
more.
Maybe we'll see you on 4th Avenue some evening!
Friday, Saturday & Sunday, April 30, May 1 & 2
There are three types of riders who attempt this ride. The racers start at
first light, stop only for Cytomax and water, and arrive in beautiful downtown
Strawberry (population 35) ready for a full afternoon of sightseeing. The
tourists actually take time to look at the great scenery, enjoy the generous sag
stops, and arrive just early enough for a nap before dinner. The clueless
realize at mile 45 on the first day that they should be somewhere else.
Don't be clueless! This ride covers 325 miles and 22,000 feet of climbing over
three days.The 1st day, from Scottsdale to Strawberry, climbs about 10,000 ft.
The 2nd day to Prescott climbs another 6,600 ft. and crosses the inevitably
windy Prescott Valley. Distance on the 3rd day is 127 miles. Be prepared for
cold in the mountains and heat crossing the desert. And sometimes (rarely) snow.
The Landis Cyclery crew will transport your bags and provide sag stops with
snacks and water. They will also pick you up if you can't go on, but space is
very limited. If you start, be prepared to finish!
LODGING: Strawberry accommodations are limited. If all hotels are full, call
Cheryl at the Windmill Corner Inn for suggestions.
Strawberry Lodge 928-476-3333
Strawberry Motel 928-476-3040
Windmill Corner Inn 928-476-3064
Strawberry Hill Cabins 928-476-4252 or 480-575-7866
Prescott baggage drop-off and pickup at the Super 8 Sheldon St.
Super 8 (Sheldon St.) 800-800-8000
Motel 6 (Sheldon St.) 800-466-8356
Best Western (Gurley St.) 800-528-1234
Colony Inn (Gurley St.) 928-445-7057
WHEN: Friday, April 30.
Check in opens at 5 AM. First riders out at 5:30 AM, last sag leaves at 6:30 AM.
Slower riders, please start early!
START: Landis Cyclery, Scottsdale Rd. & Shea Blvd., SE corner.
REGISTRATION FEES: for PMBC/GABA/ABC/USCF: $40.00
Non Members- $45.00 After 4/24/03 add $5.00
Make checks payable to Phoenix Metro Bicycle Club, and mail to:
Dick Landis, c/o Landis Cyclery, 2180 E. Southern, Tempe AZ 85282
For additional information, call Dick Landis at 480-839-9383.
Sunday, April 25, 2004
Options for 58 or 29 miles
This year, the TTM will challenge over 1,000 cyclists of all ages and abilities
with the help of more than 250 volunteers!
Start of the 58-milers is at Pima College West (Anklam & Greasewood) at 7 AM;
the 29-milers start at Desert Winds Elementary School on Rudasill Rd., one mile
west of Sandario Rd., at 9 AM. Both rides end at Pima College West. Over a dozen
route stations, most of them with food, water and medical assistance, will dot
the course. And traffic control over the entire route makes this ride one of the
safest and most enjoyable events in the southwest!
The Kids Fun Ride with options for 4 miles or 1/4 mile for kids under 12 also
starts and finishes at Pima College.
Proceeds go to the U of A Alumni Association Scholarship Fund and to Kino Kids,
a pro-gram of Kino Community Hospital.
For more information on starting times and locations, or on the cost and how to
register, or to volunteer to be a bike patrol, please call PBAA at 745-2033
(Tucson).
Saturday, April 3rd
Over 800 cyclists will ride 100, 70 or 25 miles around the perimeter of McDowell
Mountains & Red Mountain, starting and finishing at Fitch Park in Mesa.
El Tour de Phoenix is fast becoming the largest springtime ride in central Arizona, attracting cyclists of all ages and abilities.
The course offers a lot of diversity, taking you to the North and West areas of Phoenix through a spring desert in full bloom! Be prepared for a course with a lot of short hills at times!
The 100-milers start at 6:30 AM and the 70-milers start at 7 :30 AM at Filch Park in Mesa, Az. The 25-milers start at 10 AM at the Rest Area on Bush Hwy, 1.7 miles south of Sahuaro Lake turnoff.
This ride benefits The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. For more information, contact PBAA, 745-2033.
Saturday, April 10, 2004
Three options to choose from:
Century (100 mi), Metric Century (62 mi), or Half-Metric (31 mi)
The rides will start and finish at the Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery at Arrowhead. Parking entrance north from Bell Rd. on 77th Ave.
The Century riders will take in wonderful views of the White Tank Mountains and the New Waddell Dam before getting on course with the Metric riders for a loop around Daisy Mountain past the Cave Creek Recreation Area before going by to see Deer Valley Airport.
Registration opens at 6 AM with a Continental Breakfast while you're waiting for the rides to start.
There will be mass starts with the Century ride leaving at 7 AM and the Metric at 7:30 AM. Out on the road you'll have SAG vehicles keeping track of you and 4 fully stocked Rest Stops. After you're back, there'll be a place to leave your bike while you have "lunch on the patio" provided by the Rock Bottom between 11:30 AM & 3:30 PM. We'll have fun - rain or shine!
The registration fee includes entry for 1 rider, plus: 1 raffle drawing entry, 1 commemorative T-shirt & 1 Lunch Pass
Registrations received with postmark date before April 10th, 2004:
Club Members for ABC, GABA, Bullshifters: $30
Non-club members: $40
Late and Day of Event Registration:
Club Members for ABC, GABA, Bullshifters: $40
Non-club members: $50
Extra commemorative T-Shirts :
(limited quantity on day of event) $12
(Watch the ABC Website and April's Newsletter for Design.)
For questions, on-line registration forms, or more information, contact Ride
Leader, Chris Barry, at 623-486-8859 or visit us on-line at
http://www.azbikeclub.com
April 17 & 18
Whether you have been on this ride before, or are a new rider this year, join us for a weekend of camaraderie, fitness and fun in Bisbee! This ride is for the noble and fit rider who will enjoy a visit to this small quaint old mining town - now an arts colony - nestled n the mountains of Southeast Arizona.
The ride starts as usual at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, in Sonoita. With the spring sun beckoning you to Bisbee and the wind at your back, travel east on Hwy 82 to the intersection with Hwy 80 where cyclists turn south towards Tombstone. Continue to Bisbee over Mule Pass, and it's time to socialize! You have the choice of either camping at Higgins Park, or lodging in one of Bisbee's many historic hotels, motels and B & B Inns.
This year, we are offering a "Special Dinner" on Saturday evening at the COPPER QUEEN HOTEL for $15 per person, and an early breakfast on Sunday morning, also at the Copper Queen: it'll be worth the climb over Mule Pass! We need a minimum of 25 people to hold the dinner, so sign up early!
DAY ONE: Approximately 62 miles.
The course takes you along grassy the high meadows and scenic valleys of Southern Arizona to Mustang Corners (SAG stop #1 at the Texaco); then, on to Tombstone. After a break and a walk along the famous Tombstone Boardwalk to visit small shops and museums, return to your bike and continue southeast.
Enjoy majestic views of the Huachuca Mountains to the west as you descend to the base of Mule Pass (SAG stop #2). Here, don't forget to refuel with lunch! This is the last SAG stop before a steady 6-mile climb that brings you to the tunnel at the top!
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!
DAY TWO: Approximately 55 miles.
The return trip on Sunday takes you back up to the tunnel, either via the main highway or through the narrow winding Tombstone Canyon Rd., on your way to the major descent of this day! As you were climbing the 6-mile Mule Mountain Pass the day before, did you think how great it would be to go the other way? Well, here it is! Safely enjoy this great descent!
At the bottom, make a left turn towards Sierra Vista on Hwy 90 and continue west to SAG stop #1. A little more climb with great views of the Huachuca Mountains, and you are now in Sierra Vista. At the junction of Hwy 90 & 92, turn right on the By-Pass which will bring you to Huachuca City. Watch for the left turn to Sonoita at the junction with Hwy 82 (SAG stop #2).
The third leg of this journey back may bring you some headwinds - a traditional occurrence on this ride! A little ups & downs, with scenic mountain scenes at the horizon, and you are now back in Southern Arizona grassland country, and close to the finish in Sonoita. We'll have a treat for you when you arrive back at the Fairgrounds!
Your Ride Fee Includes:
1) Camping at Fairgrounds in Sonoita on Friday night before the ride;
2) Safe parking for your car at the Fairgrounds for the weekend;
3) SAG support along the route on both days if you need help;
4) 2 SAG stops with water, fruit & snacks, and lunch makings;
5) Baggage truck to deliver your luggage at camping site or at your hotel (tag your dufflebag with hotel name tags at start of ride;
6) Camping in Bisbee on Saturday night at Higgins Park (hot showers included), convenient to the central area of town;
7) Route maps and riders instructions.
Starting Point:
Saturday morning in Sonoita at the Fairgrounds (follow GABA signs).
Starting time:
Registration between 6:30 AM and 8 AM.
Baggage truck will depart no later than 8:30 AM. Sign in, drop your dufflebag labeled with color coded motel tags and pick up your map and riders instructions. Then, start riding as soon as you are ready!
Ride Leader: For more info, call Dick Schaffer, (520) 326-4807 or bikeschaf@aol.com Volunteers are always needed! GABA Bucks will be awarded to all the volunteers, including the SAG crew and the sweep crew. Call Dick as soon as possible if interested. See you there!
Motel List (Updated 1/04):
Make your reservations EARLY as Bisbee Inns can fill up quickly! We will deliver luggage only to the following places:
1. Bisbee Grand Hotel: 800-421-1909
2. Copper Queen Hotel: 800-247-5829
3. High Desert Inn: 800-432-1442
4. Inn at Castle Rock: 800-566-4449
5. Jonquil Motel: 520-432-7371
6. Main Street Inn: 800-467-5237
7. OK Street Jailhouse: 800-821-0678
8. School House B&B: 800-537-4333
9. Old Bisbee B & B: 520-432-5424
10. Walker House: 520-432-4829
11. Chamber of Commerce 520-432-5421
Sonoita-Bisbee Ride Fee:
Pre-Registered Riders:
GABA & ABC Members: $45
Non Members: $55
Day of Event Fee:
GABA & ABC Members: $60
Non Members: $70
Optional Meals-must be paid w/registration
Sat. Evening: Copper Queen dinner: $15
Sun. Morning: Copper Queen Breakfast: various prices - you pay at the door.
Sunday Morning
Copper Queen Hotel Breakfast Menu:
Minimum of 15 persons needed
Breakfast starts at 6 AM. (You won't find another restaurant in Bisbee open this early!)
Continental Breakfast: $5.95
Breakfast Buffet: $7.95
Traditional Breakfast: $7.95
Country & California Breakfasts: $8.59
All breakfasts come with assorted juices, freshly brewed coffee, teas or milk.
Saturday Evening
Copper Queen Hotel
Dinner Menu:
Pasta Banquet Buffet, $15 per person
(Must be pre-paid at time of Registration)
DINNER WILL START AT 5:15 PM. DOOR PRIZES!
All fresh and homemade by the Copper Queen cooking staff!
Antipasto Platter;
Chicken Breast with Marinara Sauce;
Cheese Tortellini with Alfredo Sauce;
Farfelle Pasta with Fresh Vegetables;
Roasted Green Peppers, Onions & Tomatoes;
Garlic Bread, butter & seasonings;
Coffee, Tea & Brewed Decaffeinated Coffee;
Dessert choices include: Bisbee Cheesecake, "To-Die-For" chocolate cake, and other delectable choices!
May 15 & 16, 2004
Two options:
85 miles per day with all the hills or
65 miles per day with fewer hills!
Join us for the spectacular scenery and challenging hills of the Salt River Canyon May 15 and 16th. With over 6500 feet of climbing on the first day, this ride is for strong, experienced riders.
OPTIONS:
Choose from the full 85 scenic hilly miles (90 if you stay at the campground), or a reduced 65-mile easier course. The full course takes you from the mining town of Globe up through desert vistas into pine trees, and the open vistas of the rocky canyon.
The shorter version includes a 20-mile ride in the sag vehicle to the first sag stop to eliminate about 3000 feet of climbing out of Globe on the first day.
Both options include the curvy steep descent to the bottom of the canyon, climbing up and up on the other side, a downhill to Carrizo Creek and the final rolling climb in the pine trees into Show Low.
The second day, the course may be shortened by a ride down the hill to Carrizo Canyon, or shorter-version cyclists can tackle the full 85 miles and 5000 feet of climbing. If you want to ride the shorter version with fewer hills, but still a good "scenic" workout, call Kathy Mills, 480-759-7675, or Email khendricks67@earthlink.net to reserve your seat in the sag van!
STARTING PLACE & TIME:
Meet in Globe between 5:45 and 7 AM on Saturday morning at Joe's Broad Street Grill on Broad Street (Take Broad Street off US 60, follow it past Sycamore.) Load your dufflebag in the baggage vehicle and pick up your map & ride instructions. The restaurant will open 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 miles into the ride. This portion of the ride includes gradual climbing.
SAG #2 at the top of the climb out of Salt River Canyon (40 miles into the ride), will provide lunch.
SAG #3 will be located 20 miles further at the Chevron station, Carrizo Junction.
It is important to re-hydrate yourself at each sag stop, even if you don't feel thirsty. Consumption of enough calories over the course of the day will help you feel strong until you reach your destination.
COST: $65 for GABA members; $75 for non-members. DAY OF EVENT: $80 for members & $90 for non-members. Helmets are mandatory. We require a minimum of 25 riders to put on this event. If there are not 25 committed/paid cyclists by April 15th, the ride will be canceled. As of 2/15/04, we have 7 people who have contacted Kathy with interest in participating.
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) Mills, 480-759-7675 (home), 480-235-5052 (cell), 602-274-6725 (work) or Email khendricks67@earthlink.net. Rest stop and sag vehicle volunteers are needed. Earn GABA bucks toward ride entry or other items! Contact Kathy or Dorothy Barth at dorothybarth2443@msn.com if you or your friends and family want to help.
MOTEL LIST
In Globe:
El Rey: (928)425-4427 Economy Inn: (928)425-5736
El Rancho Motel: (928)425-5757 Motel 6: (928)425-5741
Comfort Inn: (928)425-7575 Super 8: (928)425-7124
Days Inn: (928)425-5500 Travelodge: (928)425-7008
In Show Low:
Sleep Inn: (928)532-7323 Pool, jacuzzi, breakfast.
Kiva: (928)537-4542. Jacuzzi.
Best Wstrn Paint Pony: (928)537-5773
Days Inn: (928)537-4356 Motel 6: (928)537-7694
Holiday Inn: (928)537-5115 Thunderbird : (928)537-4391
"As I pedal on, it's my desire to motivate and encourage others to seek
out their dreams and aspirations."
by John Hughes
Copyright 2004, UMCA, Inc.
Larsen profile at www.ultracycling.com/about/larsenprofile.html
Larsen's website: www.allenacrossamerica.com
Allen Larsen has been elected by the Board of Directors as the Ultracyclist of
2003. UMCA members nominate deserving candidates who had an excellent year of
cycling and are exemplars of the sport.
The UMCA member who nominated Larsen wrote: "RAAM is the most significant
challenge of an ultracyclist and Allen blew everyone away last year in an
exceptional demonstration of endurance, overcoming adversity, character,
integrity and sportsmanship, which was particularly exemplary in this year of
UMCA dissension."
Allen uses RAAM "to advance endurance athletics standards as well as family
values and personal dignity.. . . Let's not wait until Allen has broken Pete's
speed record or Wolf's and Rob's endurance standards to honor this giant among
winners."
Larsen said: "I would like to thank the UMCA Board for honoring me with this
award. Being relatively new to the sport, with my focus only on RAAM, this award
comes as a bit of a surprise. I hope my story not only encourages ultracyclists,
but non-cyclists as well in knowing that any obstacles can be overcome with
enough determination, hard work, perseverance and the support of family and
friends."
Larsen will be honored by the UMCA at the Race Across Oregon and will receive
free entry to RAO, thanks to George Thomas.
Larsen's back was so badly injured in a car accident in 1988 that he was forced
to give up riding. After years of pain he was finally able to resume cycling.
After completing Seattle to Portland several times he started thinking about
longer distances, even though he still had back pain. He rode is first ultra
event in 2000, when he won the Cannonball. "I showed up at the start line with
literally nothing that would be considered training and had no idea if I'd even
finish. I set a new course record for that 275 miler from Seattle to Spokane in
13:06 - over the Cascades and all!" He also won the S2S, another Seattle to
Spokane race, just two weeks after the Cannonball. In 2001 he was first place at
the Race Across Oregon.
Allen had a great RAAM in 2002. He was the third place solo rider, won the Ian
Sandbach award as the most inspirational rider, was Rookie of the Year and the
Mississippi River Prime winner.
In 2003 he won RAAM in 8d 23h 36m, finishing 15 hours ahead of Jure Rubic, who
took second. Larsen did this despite his neck failing
half-way through the race.
When told he was elected Ultracyclist of 2003, Larsen wrote. "It would be
inappropriate for me to take full credit for this achievement, as it would have
been impossible without the help of so many. I'd like to thank my wife, Teresa,
and my two daughters, Kimberlee and Faith, for their continual support and
encouragement. Both years' crews who stuck with me no matter how hard it got and
were always willing to find solutions. My coach, John Hughes, for taking on an
inexperienced rookie, seeing and believing in my potential, and helping in so
many ways. My hometown for its abundant support and caring. You believed in me
whether I won or not. Friends, family and sponsors, without you I wouldn't have
made it to the start line, much less the finish line. Dr. Small and Dr. Reina at
Florida Orthopedic Institute for blessing me with help and care beyond my
wildest imagination. My Creator and Savior Jesus Christ for blessing me with an
engine that could and so much more. I know this list seems long, but so is RAAM
-- and completing RAAM takes a lot more than a bicycle.
After RAAM '03 Larsen said: "I believe that I have been blessed by God with a
talent that not too many people have. I consider it a privilege to be His
ambassador. I worked very hard to win, but glad it's over (or is it?). I hope
that my story will inspire others to get out and do something positive,
regardless of their current condition"
Larsen is currently training for RAAM '04. He says: "Though I don't know what my
future holds, this award and my experiences with RAAM and ultracycling have been
one of the four most life-changing events I've experienced. As I pedal on, it's
my desire to motivate and encourage others to seek out their dreams and
aspirations. I believe this award and my RAAM accomplishments will provide
opportunities to support and promote the future of ultracycling."
The UMCA also honors riders for lifetime achievement; in 2003 Steve
Born was elected to the Ultracycling Hall of Fame.
by: Richard E. "Rich" Corbett
Certified Cycling Instructor & Coach
Your training is well underway now (or it should be!) If not, now is the time to
do so, as it will be easier if you take it at a measured pace. Please read on,
because this article can help you ride more effectively, having more fun, and
being safer!
Five Articles - February through June
This Month's article identifies ways to improve your group riding strategies and
skills; May's article will look at Ride Day and how to put all "the pieces"
together for success; and June's final article of this five-part series will
share effective recovery methods and techniques. The two prior months articles,
February, "How to Improve Your Speed", and March, "How to Improve Your Hill
Climbing" are both available on the GABA Tucson Website,
www.bikegaba.org
Group Riding Strategies And Skills
Cycling with others is one of the many delights of cycling ! We ride with
our friends, or with others who may become our friends. And sometimes, most
often in events, we ride with or among people we don't know at all. Regardless
of whom we ride with, it is important to know and practice good group riding
skills.
In General
Let me preface my presentation, with this note. I enjoy cycling in a
relatively quiet and calm manner. This means that I subscribe to, and advocate,
the 'minimalist' approach to communicating verbally with other cyclists. Suffice
it to say, I've ridden 'back east' quite a few times, and observe that 'they'
shout a lot more on their rides than we do out west. "CAR UP ! CAR BACK ! And so
on, and on, and on. Really...
Another practice I have seen, everywhere I have ridden, is 'Group Think' !! For
example, when the first cyclist comes to an inter-section, s/he may look both
ways and proceed. Then, sadly (and dangerously), others behind may simply roll
through without looking! It is very important that everyone make their own
decisions. Try to be extra careful when you are in a group, that you don't get
'bit' by the 'group think snake'!
When preparing to make a left turn, each cyclist in the group should watch both
traffic back and the cyclists in front of them. Don't move over if there is not
a sufficient 'hole' - do not force your way in!!
When in left turn lanes, double up (side by side) so as to make your group more
compact, and to help assure that everyone gets through on one signal. And
please, know how to start crisply and surely - none of this pathetic halfway
pushing off!
For Those Behind You
When cycling on the road with other cyclists, you owe much of your
responsibility to those who are cycling behind you. Signaling hazards with your
hands and arms, signaling your intention to turn, as well as signaling slowing,
and NEVER moving to the left or right without looking back and yielding to
whomever may already be there, are the primary responsibilities you have. Sudden
braking is also frowned upon Ð shed speed without braking, by sitting up and
"air braking", or sliding left (or right), out of the draft. If you must brake,
try "feathering" the brake, to shed just a little speed, instead of a lot.
There are a few instances when we do call out to those behind us (or in one
case, in front).
Cattleguards and Railroad tracks are always called out.
Of course, if you are riding in a pace line, there are other equally important
responsibilities. These include NEVER braking or even coasting without first
warning the cyclist behind you. And again, you should never move to the right or
left very much, just in case the person behind you has goofed and is overlapping
wheels with you.
For Those in Front of You
When you are the last rider in a group, and a motorist is approaching from the
rear, and the group ahead of you is spread out, then it is the right time to
call out, "CAR BACK"! If the group is not spread out, then there is NO need to
call out anything.
Whenever you are going to pass another cyclist, ALWAYS call out to them. There
are several phrases, including 'passing on your left', 'on your left', 'your
left', and 'passing'. I prefer the simple one word, "passing". This is more
easily understood, and alerts me that I need to 'hold my line' and move neither
left or right.
This raises the issue of whether you should pass another cyclist on the right.
In most all circumstances, the answer is a definite NO. But there are times when
it becomes necessary, such as in the first few miles of major events (i.e. El
Tour de Tucson). Just remember that it is even more important to call out your
intention to pass if it will be on the right ("your right!").
Summary
Be thoughtful of others - DO NOT do anything that will surprise another cyclist
(or for that matter, a motorist either). Being Predictable and Visible are the
two most important things you can do for your own enjoyment & safety, and the
safety of others. Communicate with those behind you with hand signals, except
for cattleguards and railroad tracks. Communicate with those in front with
short, clear verbal signals.
Do these things and you will enjoy your cycling more, and be safer at the same
time ! Please E-mail me with your specific questions, at kc7ovm@dakotacom.net.
Good luck with your continued Training, and watch next month for the fourth
article in this series of five, "Ride Day, and How to Put All 'the pieces'
Together for Success".
by Richard E "Rich" Corbett
Certified Cycling Instructor & Coach
When I began Club cycling in 1978, my mentors were not bashful about correcting
my 'poor cadence'. This was in the days before index shifting and STI shifting
convenience. Today, while it is much easier to maintain proper cadence we must
know what it is in order to do it.
What is Cadence?
Cadence is merely the rate at which you pedal. It is measured and expressed in
revolutions per minute, or rpms. Revolutions of what? Your pedals!
Why was (and still is) cadence so important? Because when you pedal too slow,
you stress your knees and hips when you pedal too fast, you lose form and
efficiency big time ~ going either too fast or too slow, you waste energy and
risk injury.
Proper Cadence
To operate most efficiently, and with least risk of injury, try to pedal at 70
to 90 revolutions per minute (rpm). This is a little more than one, to as much
as one and one half, pedal revolutions per second. This applies when you are
seated. If standing, (which most do for only short periods) cadence must be slow
enough to give you resistance as you apply the greater force that standing while
pedaling provides. This is generally 40 to 50 rpms.
How to Manage Cadence
You truly must make effective and proper use of your gears in order to achieve
good cadence. When you are going slower, you must have your bike in lower gears
in order to maintain a fast enough (but still no more than 90 to 100 rpms)
cadence. As you speed up, you must shift up, into higher gears, to prevent
over-revving, with too fast a cadence. The principal is the same as shifting a
manual transmission car.
Tips on Shifting
First, you must keep pedaling, but with momentarily reduced, minimal pressure on
the pedals; simultaneously, move the shift lever (normally the one for the rear
derailleur) to change the location of the chain to where you want (to a "new",
higher or lower, gear). The chain should move quickly onto the "new" gear with a
solid sounding (but not loud) "clunk". Finally, resume normal pedaling pressure
in the "new" gear.
This procedure works for both up and down shifts, as well as front and rear
shifts.
Summary
Cadence is still a vital part of being an effective and efficient cyclist. In
fact, I can learn a lot about a cyclist's level of skill by watching how well
they maintain a proper cadence, and, based on changing conditions, how often
they shift.
If you do not feel confident of your gear use, and the cadence that it results
in, practice, practice, and practice some more. You will get better, if you
follow the advice above!
Copyright 2004, Richard E Corbett, Tucson, AZ
Top of Page
Hello GABA members!
My name is Dave Jennings. I am the president of the U of A Cycling Club. Our
club would like to ask for your support.
This year, Nationals will be held May 21-23 in Madison, Wisconsin. As you can
imagine, getting there from Tucson is not a cheap venture! We receive little
financial support from the University so we rely on our wonderful sponsors,
alumni, and the Tucson community for financial support.
We're holding a raffle to fund our Road Racing Teams' travel to Collegiate Road
Bike Nationals, with only 1000 tickets available at the price of $20 each.
You'll have a 1-in-100 chance of winning a prize!
Grand Prize: 2004 Colnago C50 w/Campy Record, No pedals included.
2nd Prize: 2004 DuraAce 10-spd groupo.
3rd Prize: Zipp 303 wheelset.
4th Prize: Mavic Ksyrium SSC SL wheelset.
5th Prize: American Classic 420 wheelset.
6th Prize: American Classic 350 wheelset.
7th Prize:04 UofA Jersey signed by US Postal.
8th Prize: Fizik Aliante Carbon Saddle.
9th Prize: Fizik Arione Saddle.
10th Prize: Case Carb-BOOM energy gels.
Entry form at www.uofacycling.com Questions? Contact Dave Jennings at
uofacycling@hotmail.com . Drawing to be held after the TTM ride on 4/25/04.
Thanks you for your support and good luck!
New Members:
Kris Selby; Joan D'Alonzo; Dalton Jackson; John McLain; Paul Strautman;
Romain Morales; Pete Irish; Robert Gallagher; John Henneberger; Michael
Wilkinson; Saul Mora; Shelson Ham; Ross Zimmerman; Dana Freeman; John/Liz/Johnny
Stambaugh Chris Grealish.
Renewing Members:
Bob Murphy; Pat/Tom Young/Chabot; Joanne Dowdy; Teresa Johnson; William
Wieboldt; Barton Santello; Barry & Gale Deats; Carole Leiker; Doug Wexler; Bob
Brown; John/Randi Steiner; Ronald/Camilla Greene; Dennis/Vivian Peterson;
Sylvia/Gordon Young; Barney Thompson; Roger Fox; Rich Marciari; Pat Mulligan.
May 29th, 30th & 31st
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. Ride 48
miles on rolling hills to Quemado, New Mexico. Lunch served just before a
cyclist's dream: an 8-mile fast descent into Quemado! Camping & showers at the
Quemado High School. Optional dinner with vegetarian or meat Mexican food, green
salad and dessert will be served at the high school as well as breakfast the
next morning.
Day 2: 55 Miles: Quemado, NM to Reserve, NM
Pedal on lightly-traveled roads 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 to your day. We will have camping and shower
facilities at the Reserve High School. Walk west, a mere .3 miles from the Rode
Inn and you'll be there. Dinner that night and breakfast the following morning
will be served at the School this year, put on by the cheer leading squad.
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! The lunch SAG is at Luna Lake picnic grounds and a 3rd
SAG for emergency refueling and re-hydration will be offered prior to going into
Springerville.
Registration FEE: Members: $65 Non-Members: $75
DAY OF EVENT: Members: $85 Non-Members: $95
Optional Meals MUST BE PRE-PAID WITH YOUR RIDE FEE!
Dinner in Quemado: $7.50 Breakfast in Quemado: $7
Dinner in Reserve: $7.50 Breakfast in Reserve: $7
Your Fee Includes: Luggage transport, 2 SAG stops w/food & water on each day, a
3rd SAG stop added on Day 3, Camping & showers at Quemado and Reserve High
School Saturday and Sunday nights and end of ride showers at the Rode Inn in
Springerville so you can go home refreshed. And lets not forget a SAG vehicle
help throughout the course.
Please register ASAP to assist us adequately in preparing for a well-supported
ride. This remote area has few supermarkets! So, we must
give our optional meal hosts a 2-week advance head count for meals, which also
means those who wait to register on the day of the event will NOT be guaranteed
a meal.
RIDE ORGANIZER: Rhonda Smith, 886-2919 or onekewlmom@ hotmail.com
MOTEL LIST:
Springerville:
Rode Inn: (877)220-6553 or (928)333-4365
Super 8: (800)800-8000 or (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
Allegre: (505)773-4520
by Donna Aversa, Ride Leader
The sun came up and the road was dry for the February 22, 2004 Coolidge Century.
Fifty riders, including many from out of town and out of state, took advantage
of what GABA and Southern Arizona have to offer for early season century riding.
As ride leader, I had a chance to talk to many of the riders. Everyone had a
story. One rider was training for Boston-Montreal-Boston. A rider from Colorado
brought his brother, sister-in-law and pooch for a weekend escape from the
permafrost. A group of club racers from Georgia was zipping all over town for a
week of early season training. A great group from Green Valley came out because
one of the riders was 75 years old and it was about time he did his first
century! Two riders brought their brand new bikes out for a big test ride. A few
riders came out just because it wasn't raining. Everyone was still smiling at
the end of the day and no one encountered any problem that couldn't be solved by
tire levers, PBJ or one quick trip to the Ace Hardware Store.
This was my first time organizing a GABA century. If you have been a member for
a while and haven't organized a ride, I would encourage you to do so. With help
from GABA's Sandi Rousseau and her magic notebook, you get step by step
instructions on what needs to be done and when. Just follow the directions and
you cannot miss!
If you're not ready to tackle organizing a ride, sign up to help at registration
or at a SAG stop. You get to meet some great people. As a bonus, you can earn
GABA bucks to be used toward a jersey or ride fees. Send me an E-mail. We'll
need volunteers for upcoming centuries and special events.
From registration to finish, the Coolidge Century volunteers were top notch.
Steve Slat, Marie Klenke, Bob Klenke greeted all the riders at registration.
Marty Gawlik and Karl Rifenbark fed everyone at least once at SAG #1. Carole
Leiker fed the 100 milers at SAG #2. Ed Roberts and Sue Roberts swept the course
and made sure we didn't lose anyone. Tony Williamson was my assistant ride
leader and did just about everything and anything that needed doing.
By Roy Schoonover & Richard Corbett
This is the Fourth in a series of monthly columns, sharing news from the
meetings of the Tucson-Pima County Bicycle Advisory Committee (TPCBAC). This
column has two major sections, Announcements, and Actions.
If you have any bicycle concern, you are invited to attend the TPCBAC meetings,
which take place the second Wednesday of each month, 6:00 to 8:00 PM, at the
Himmel Library (Treat Ave & 1st Street), and present your concern during the
"Call to the Public".
Announcements
The following news was made known at the March 10th meeting:
| A Design Concept Report (DCR) is being prepared for Silverbell Road, Grant to Camino del Cerro. Frank Reyes, of the Tucson Dept. of Transportation, will be the Project Engineer. Plans are to widen the Road to 6 lanes divided, with bike lanes and sidewalks. Contact Frank Reyes at 791-5100 for more info. |
| The matter of motorized scooters in bike lanes, and on shared use paths was brought up. There is definite feeling that strong regulation of these devices will be coming soon. Meanwhile, there is general agreement that they are a problem for cyclists and pedestrians. Contact Trace Tang at 791-4272 for more info. |
| March 22nd, the Sahuarita Town Council will consider appointment of George Dudley to represent the Town on the BAC. Special thanks to Town Manager Jim Stahle for his support of this beneficial action. Contact Jim at 648-1972. |
| The matter of Cyclists carrying identification was brought up, and it was generally agreed that legally, all cyclists should have some form of valid identification with them when they ride. There was not agreement on whether this should be a drivers license, a picture ID, or ??. Contact Roy Schoonover at 574-5221 for more information. |
| The upcoming Clean Air Fest was again announced by Trace Tang, A variety of bicycle events will take place in conjunction with it. He reminded Members of new bicycle-related information that has been put up on the CityÕs web site. Contact Trace at 791-4272 for more info. |
| The pros and cons of Bicycle Registration were discussed at length. Rosemary Carmody reported on her research, and an in-depth discussion followed. Probably the strongest argument for having registration is the additional legitimacy that it provides cyclists; while the there is no clear cut strongest argument against, one of the most difficult things to deal with is child bike registration, and what happens is a modest income family with several children. Contact Rosemary at 760-8598. |
| The possible removal of reversible lanes on Grant Road was discussed. BAC Member Ken OÕDay reported that there has been a lot of discussion among adjacent neighborhood associations and businesses about removing the lane, and most has been supportive of the removal. The Thursday, March 11th Arizona Daily Star had a news story that reported the Tucson City Council taking up the issue, and would make a final decision in a month. |
Actions
The Committee took only one formal action at this meeting:
| Voted to send a letter, signed by Chair Jesse Morales, asking for designation of the Spanish Trail Bikeway as the ÒDan Yersavich Memorial BikewayÓ. Thanks to Dick Schaffer (326-4807) for his hard work on this important issue. |
For More Information
Contact any of the Tucson area bicycle coordinators: Richard Corbett, PAG
Regional 792-1093; Shellie Ginn or Trace Tang, City of Tucson 791-4372, Matt
Zoll, Pima County 740-6747, and Nancy Ellis, Oro Valley 229-5057.
By John Arle, The "Pedaling Pulitzer"
A recent Gatoraid commercial got me thinking about a phenomenon inherent to all
cyclists that push themselves to achieve new speeds and new distances. Pushing
to these new personal bests generally involves the classic "bonk".
Although symptoms vary, bonking cyclists generally have the appearance that
their facial skin is no longer firmly attached to anything, and share the same
light of intelligence in the eyes with a stegosaurus (that's the one with the
brain the size of a walnut, I think).
Often, the bonking cyclist has a little rabid dog look around the mouth, too.
Interestingly enough, the bonking vocabulary gets reduced to just two words,
"I'm OK", generally uttered in pathetically soft tones. Internally, this rider
now knows what life as a bacteria is like - without the metabolic advantages of
either the Krebs cycle or aerobic energy production. Consequently, this brings
about a simpler perception of the world and top speeds between five and eight
miles per hour.
But bonking isn't the phenomenon I referred to earlier. Coming back for more
after this incredible experience is what truly defies the laws of physics! We've
all heard that "what goes up, must come down". But here is an example of the
reverse, "what goes down, gets back up". As the Gatoraid commercial asks and
answers, "whatever it is, it ain't physics".
It's a testament to the cyclist that pushes him or her self beyond the breaking
point, learns, plans, and comes back again to conquer that which won the last
round.
For us, it's the call of the road that lures us back. Our "song of the siren" is
the road itself. Those moments when we realize that we are climbing like we've
never climbed or perhaps we are maintaining in a paceline faster than we've ever
held before. Maybe it's even more ethereal than that. Perhaps it's that moment
of solitude when the countryside, the road, the bike, and the rider all become
one. With a clarity never felt before, we realize we are a part of everything
around us, and it is a part of us.
That's why we get back up.
October 2 - 9, 2004
Saturday, October 2nd:
Optional bus trip ($) from the Phoenix Best Western Airport Inn, leaving at
10 AM for Best Western Squire Inn in Tusayan, near the Grand Canyon. Relax at
Tusayan. Tour Kick Off Banquet that evening.
Day 1: Sunday, October 3rd:
Layover day at the Grand Canyon. Explore it by biking, hiking, or taking a
Canyon shuttle trip!
Day 2: Monday, October 4th:
Tusayan to Gray Mountain (73 miles). Pedal along the East Rim Drive and
enjoy the beauty of one of the world's greatest natural wonders, the Grand
Canyon, as you make your way towards (down to) the stark beauty of the high
desert Navajo Reservation.
Day 3: Tuesday, October 5th:
Gray Mountain to Flagstaff (62 miles). An incredibly scenic route on the
Sunset Crater-Wupatki Loop Road allows you to visit numerous ruins, admire miles
of the ancient Bonito Lava Flow, and dramatic views of the Sunset Crater
volcanic cone and Humphrey's Peak (Arizona's highest point at 12,663 ft).
Day 4: Wednesday, October 6th
Flagstaff to Payson (95 miles). Ride by Lake Mary and Mormon Lake in the
world's largest ponderosa pine forest. Crest over the Mogollon Rim and enjoy
steep descents through the small towns of Strawberry (great pies!) and Pine.
Day 5: Thursday, October 7th
Payson to Show Low (90 miles).
Day 6: Friday, October 8th
Show Low to Globe (85 miles)
Day 7: Saturday, October 9th
Globe to Tucson (95 miles). Ride over scenic El Capitan Pass, then enjoy the
3,000 foot drop into the Gila River Gorge. Pedal past Winkelman and Mammoth as
you marvel at the beautiful Catalina Mountain Range as you make your way into
Tucson. Join us for the Farewell Banquet & Good-byes after the ride.
Sunday, October 10th
Optional bus trip ($) from Tucson to Phoenix (end of ride) leaving by 9 AM.
Information Message Line: (520) 349-5932
Web Site: www.bikegaba.org
Registration Fee: $450.00 per rider
Fee Includes:
Camping with showers;
Daily baggage transport to designated campsites and motels;
Quality food and beverage stops along the route;
SAG support along the route;
Eight Group dinners;
Daily afternoon snacks and refreshments at the campsites;
Entertainment on many evenings;
Entrance pass to the Grand Canyon;
Tour apparel;
Tour route guide with maps;
Mechanic support on the road;
Massage (fee $) Therapists at daily destinations.
Route: The 500-mile route will begin in Tusayan, near the Grand Canyon,
and end in Tucson, Arizona. There will be 6 days of riding for an average of 82
miles per day, and a total elevation gain of about 16,000 feet.
May 1st at McCormick Park
2950 N. Columbus Blvd., Ramada #2
By Pam Cullop, Social Director
As announced in the March issue of the Update, we're having another of our
favorite kinds of social events: an Ice Cream Social and Bike Ride, on Saturday,
May 1st, otherwise known as May Day. (Different park than previously announced,
however.)
Once upon a time, folks would celebrate May 1st by doing something sweet like
leaving a small bouquet of flowers on a doorstep for an unsuspecting neighbor or
friend. I remember dressing up in a folk-type costume and dancing around a May
pole as a youngster. Around these parts - well, we are so close to the 5th of
the month, that many Cinco de Mayo celebrations are already in full-swing by the
1st of May!
One of the best ways to enjoy ice cream is after you are good and ready for that
tasty frozen delight! You know what I mean - when you are thirsty, hot and
tired! And what better way to get hot, thirsty and tired (good tired that is),
than by taking a nice spin around town on your 2-wheeler?
Choose between a "B", a "C" or a "D" ride, all arriving back at Mc Cormick Park
at about 10 AM. Then, you'll have your choice of several flavors of ice cream
brought to the park by "Screamies Ice Cream 'N Tropical Treats"! How could life
get any better?
Mark your calendar, bring the family, and bring some friends!
All rides start and end at McCormick Park, 2950 N Columbus Blvd., Ramada #2.
B Ride: 7 AM Start 40-45-miles 16-18 MPH
C Ride: 7 AM Start 30-35-miles 12-14 MPH
D Ride: 8 AM Start 15-20-miles 8-12 MPH
Ice Cream will be served between 10 and 10:30 AM. Please join us; we would love
to see you!!! If you can't ride your bike on that morning, come and join the fun
around 10 AM at McCormick Park.
March 12, 2004
Compiled by Steve Bohn, Race Director
Health Net & Rona Capture Classic Titles!
Cold, cloudy skies and strong winds greeted the 530 entrants on March 5 at the
McCain loop 3.0 mile TT Stage 1. The race organization and many of this year's
entrants were looking at this year's TBC to help their healing process after the
tragic loss of Garrett Lemire last year. Prior to the race over a 6 month
period, the organizers worked with the local authorities to allow a 6 hour road
closure on the busy Gates Pass Road, something thought impossible before. The
closure made the narrow Gates Pass climb and descent safe for cyclists but
diverted traffic from the closure clogged Kinney Road along the route and caused
problems for several categories.
Gauging from the participants feedback, the overall event was a huge success.
The organizers are already looking ahead to next year in dealing with these new
challenges; as Tucson grows and traffic increases, safety will always be the
first and foremost priority .
Elite Women
After Team Rona sensation Genevieve Jeanson was recently cleared for racing,
many wondered if her dominant form would return. That question was answered
after a sizzling Stage 1 prologue time of 8:20, 14 seconds ahead of Jeanie
Longo, the most storied woman in the history of cycling! On day 2, Jeanson blew
the field away by over 9 minutes in a 38 KPH effort in the 63-mile Gates
Pass/Garrett Lemire Memorial Stage 2 RR. The phenom from Montreal has dominated
the Classic (one of her favorite races) twice in the past and looked poised once
again to shatter the field with a 10:07 lead over teammate Emilie Roy, 11:17
over 3rd place Gabriela Gonzales-Ferrat (Velo Bella) and 15:19 lead over 5th
place Jeanie Longo, training for her 6th Olympic bid. A hat-trick in stage wins
and a 3rd Classic title seemed inevitable until a awkward dismount from her
pedal after stage 2 caused a knee injury and she was unable to start the final
Artisan Prosthetics Circuit Race.
"No one is more disappointed than myself" she said in the team car as the
women's peloton rolled off the start for stage 3.
Strangely, the Women's peloton seemed unaware of her no-show at the start,
assuming she was off the front somewhere as Rona riders were mum. On lap 2 just
as the sunrise appeared over the ridge, Rebecca Broeder (Wells Fargo/Ragatz)
jumped as the pack hesitated and instantly built a lead. The Rona riders did not
consider her an immediate threat since she was 6:25 down in GC but with two laps
to go she was 2:30+ clear of the peloton. The two Rona riders, Anna Milkowski
and Emilie Roy put the hammer down, organizing a ferocious chase and closed the
gap to 10 meters at the finish line where the Missoula, MT resident Broeder
managed to hold off a surging Longo, followed by Maatje Benassi (Excel Sports).
The overall win went to the 18 year old Roy, 1:10 ahead of Gonzales-Ferrat, who
said she was not aware of Genevieve's DNS until the last lap. 3:53 back in 3rd
was Heather Woodhouse (Team Kenda Tire), followed by Longo at 5:02.
Elite Men
In the men's Pro/1 field, Ryan Blickem (Aida's Bail Bonds) ripped a 7:22 on
the windy and hilly 3.0 mile McCain Loop Prologue, 32 seconds off Gord Frasers's
blazing 2002 record time of 6:48. :08 back in second was Health Net/Maxxis
speedster Michael Jones followed by Scott Blanchard (Eclipse).
Friday's cold and windy weather gave way to clear skies for the 84 mile Stage 2
Gates Pass/Garrett Lemire Memorial RR. Nearly a year after the accident on this
very stage, there were many heavy hearts as Garrett's parents, Art and Sally
Lemire, addressed the fields before they rolled off the start of Saturday's
Stage 2 RR. Garrett's spirit was present during the early morning sunrise
backdrop as the mist lifted around the Tucson Mountains and a calm energy
prevailed. His smile was felt in all of our hearts.
The shorter distance (due to the road closure time frame) facilitated a much
more aggressive pace starting right of the bat. A powerful break of Blickem,
Jones and Michael Sayers (Health Net/Maxxis) stayed away for over 65 miles but
were caught about 12 miles from the finish. Nonetheless, an impressive effort by
the race leader to defend his jersey in the company of 2 Health Net riders. 2003
defending champion William Steinbrecher (Jelly Belly/Aramar) took the field
sprint at 3:13:05 as the peloton averaged a blazing pace of 42. Andy Wilson (Viejas)
took 2nd followed by Michael Dietrich (Fiordifrutta) . Blickem's KOM time bonus
kept him in the yellow jersey followed by Steinbrecher (:09) and Sayers (:17).
During the Artisans Prosthetics Stage 3 50-mile circuit race, the peloton with
the race leader Blickem allowed a three-man break with Blickem's teammate
Eduardo Vicencio, Nathan Mitchell (TIAA-CREF/5280) and Jones to build a nearly
2-minute gap over the peloton. The well-organized break managed to stay clear by
:27 over a hard-charging pack as Vicencio took the win followed by Mitchell and
Jones, once again averaging over 43 KPH (26.6 MPH!). Mitchell also took the hot
sprint :10 bonus, which would help vault him over race-leader Blickem into 2nd
overall. Jones took his first Classic GC title, followed by Mitchell (:12) and
Blickem (:19).
Other Categories
Tucson resident Edward King's (Louis Garneau) three podiums, including a
Stage 3 victory gave him the overall Men's Cat 2 race. Cat 3 champ Scott Hubbard
(KHSnm.com) kept the lead from day one with a powerful TT result. Josh Eakins
took the Cat 4 title while Wyatt Pericles took the 5's race.
Masters 35+ overall champ Scott Biaggi's (GS Tucson Racing) amazing, blazing TT
time of 7:22 was 43 seconds ahead of 2nd place and would have netted him 2nd in
the Pro men's race! Neal Stoughton (Cycles Veloce) solo breakaway in Stage 2
gave him enough margin to hold onto the overall victory in the nearly 50-strong
45+ field, with TBC ageless veteran and feared sprinter Butch Stinton (Acme
Racing) :22 back in second. Past TBC champion and Prescott resident Steve
Walters also marched away from the 55+ field in stage 2 by 2:24 over national
criterium champion Jim Miller to take the crown in his group.
Catherine Dickson (Bicycle Ranch) victories in Stages 1 and 2 gave her the
overall Women's Cat 3 victory, while Teri Albertazzi did the same in the Cat 4's
event. TBC veteran Wendy Kuhn's (Team One Racing) TT win, strategic time bonus
and victory in Stage 3 gave her the 35+ Women's crown.
Lance Armstrong Junior Olympic Race Series and overview
Alexi Martinez (Excel Sports) overcame a poor TT with solo win in Stage 2 to
hold onto the 17-18 crown. Bicycles of Ojai (Garrett Lemire's old team) member
Chris Barton took the 15-16 men's overall while Mexico's Maricruz Chavez took
the Women's division. Ryan Zupco (Strada/Domenics) won both stages and the
overall 13-14 division.
The biggest surprise in the junior division was the record field of 10 riders in
the 10-12 year old divisions, including 3 girls, two who are age division
national champions from Mexico! Oscar Chavez (Crazy Cat Cyclery) dominated both
stages in his division while Paulina Lopez's (Crazy Cat Cyclery) victories
vaulted her to 1st in the girls division. Incidentally, she finished 2nd overall
amongst the boys as well!
For many, this TBC was one of healing and reflection. Garrett's friends and
teammates from Velo Club La Grange and Bicycles of Ojai made the journey to the
race in his honor, as did many of those who were directly involved in last
year's cat. 2 crash on Gates. Many thanks to Art and Sally Lemire for their
brave trek back to Tucson-they have demonstrated compassion and caring beyond
belief. They are always in our thoughts as are all of those affected by
Garrett's loss, including the innocent driver and passengers of the car involved
in the incident.
A special thanks to all of our great sponsors, including generous title sponsor
Artisan Prosthetics. Also, kudos to new TBC sponsor Quizno's who provided over
80 meals to the TBC crew and officials during the event. Thanks to GABA for
their continued support and help with motorcycle leads as well. Team Le
Scomparse and Revolution Racing did an outstanding job in organizing the event
while race director Steve Bohn continues to run the show, surviving 18 years of
directing 19 TBC's!
Once again the TBC will be able to donate to their official charities who
fight domestic violence, help the less fortunate in our community and
support cycling safety awareness. These organizations include The Tucson Centers
for Women & Children, The House of Neighborly Service, The Brad P. Gorman
Memorial Fund, and Walk & Roll To School Day, April 14. 2004.
Overall Standings
Men: Pro /1 Final GC
1-5:13:46 @ 00:00 Jones, Michael Health Net/Maxxis Harpursville, NY
2-5:13:58 @ 00:12 Mitchell, Nathan TIAA-CREF / 5280 Phx, AZ
3-5:14:05 @ 00:19 Blickem, Ryan Aida's Bail Bonds Alb, NM
4-5:14:14 @ 00:28 Steinbrecher, Will Jelly Belly Aramar Glen Ellyn, IL
5-5:14:22 @ 00:36 Sayer, Michael Health Net/Maxxis Tucson, AZ
Cat 2
1-5:18:04 @ 00:00 King, Edward Louis Garneau Tucson, AZ
2-5:18:13 @ 00:09 Andersen, Peter Viejas San Diego, CA
3-5:18:19 @ 00:15 Gunn, Curtis Veloworx Racing Tucson, AZ
Cat 3
1-5:23:13 @ 00:00 Hubbard, Scott KHSnm.com Alb, NM
2-5:23:33 @ 00:20 Sossen, Lee CRCA/SakonnetTech NYC, NY
3-5:23:39 @ 00:26 Ferretti, Stephen SC Velo Crestline, CA
Cat 4
1-4:19:53 @ 00:00 Eakins, Josh Tucson, AZ
2-4:20:50 @ 00:57 Schmidt, Ty Rhino Tucson, AZ
3-4:21:30 @ 01:37 Ford, Garrett Tucson, AZ
Cat 5
1-3:12:33 @ 00:00 Wyatt, Pericles Presteza Tucson, AZ
2-3:12:50 @ 00:17 Pacal, Adam Tradewind CT Kaneohe, HI
3-3:13:05 @ 00:32 Schmidt, Toby Lander, WY
Women
Pro/1-2
1-4:49:36 @ 00:00 Roy, Emilie Team Rona Canada
2-4:50:46 @ 01:10 Gonzales-Ferrat Velo Bella Chula Vista, CA
3-4:53:29 @ 03:53 Woodhouse, HeatherTeam KendaTire Mesa, AZ
4-4:54:38 @ 05:02 Longo, Jeanie France France
5-4:55:00 @ 05:24 Milkowski, Anna Team Rona Tucson, AZ
Cat 3
1-4:53:08 @ 00:00 Dickson, Catherine Bicycle Ranch Glendale, AZ
2-4:53:29 @ 00:21 Krizman, Jeanne Tucson, AZ
3-4:53:41 @ 00:33 Beyerlein,Irene Oschner Los Alamos, NM
Cat 4
1-3:31:54 @ 00:00 Albertazzi, Teri Tucson, AZ
2-3:32:45 @ 00:51 Gracheck, Kate Colo Sprs, Co
3-3:36:43 @ 04:49 Winzell, Tiffany Oschner Alb, NM
35+
1-3:42:42 @ 00:00 Kuhn, Wendy Team One Racing Scottsdale, AZ
2-3:43:00 @ 00:18 Sollars, Barbara Team One Racing Fountain Hills, AZ
3-3:43:09 @ 00:27 Simonsen, Linda Mountain Velo CC Tucson, AZ
50+
1-3:44:15 @ 01:33 Holter, Louella PSCC / Greggs Flagstaff, AZ
2-3:46:15 @ 03:33 Throup, Nancy Santa Clarita Velo Newhall, CA
Men Masters
35+
1-4:41:57 @ 00:00 Biaggi, Scott GS Tucson Racing Tucson, AZ
2-4:42:07 @ 00:10 Amelburu, Louie Las Vegas, NV
3-4:42:18 @ 00:21 Loveday, Doug Grand Canyon Racin Kingman, AZ
45+
1-4:35:47 @ 00:00 Stoughton, Neal Cycles Veloce/Edge Irvine, CA
2-4:36:09 @ 00:22 Stinton, Butch ACME Racing Moorpark, CA
3 -4:36:19 @ 00:32 Armijo, Dan NMSW/Sportz Outdoor Peralta, NM
55+
1-3:49:54 @ 00:00 Walter, Steve Prescott, AZ
2-3:52:33 @ 02:39 Miller, Jim PAA Oceanside, CA
3-3:53:13 @ 03:19 Macy, Bob Wheels on Wheels Temecula, CA
65+ /70+
1-4:01:52 @ 00:00 Beal, Roy (70+) Team RPM Scottsdale, AZ
2-4:05:36 @ 03:44 Deichman, Dave Saguaro Velo Tucson, AZ
3-4:12:45 @ 10:53 Miller, Elaine ( F) PAA/MerrillLynch Oceanside, CA
4-4:43:20 @ 41:28 Gilbert, Charles (70+) SD Cyclo Vets San Diego, CA
5-5:23:37 @ 21:45 Nosky, Dick (70+) Team RPM Paradise Valley, AZ
Juniors
17/18
1-4:28:19 @ 00:00 Martinez, Alexi Excel Sports So. Cal.
2-4:28:32 @ 00:13 Leal, Andres Aida's Bail Bond El Paso, TX
3-4:28:45 @ 00:26 Baskin, Jonathan Amgen West Hills, CA
15-16
1-3:41:12 @ 00:00 Barton, Chris Bicycles of Ojai Ojai, CA
2-3:41:37 @ 00:25 Enmon, Travis Ochsner Alb, NM
3-3:41:48 @ 00:36 Parra, Edgan Excel Sports So. Cal.
1-4:34:23 @ 53:11 Chavez, Maricruz ( F) Mexico
13-14
1-2:12:01 @ 00:00 Zupko, Ryan Domenic's Chandler, AZ
2-2:24:10 @ 12:09 Womack, Chase La Grange Santa Monica, CA
10-12
1-1:56:47 @ 00:00 Chavez, Oscar Mexico
2 (1)1:58:50 @ 02:03 Lopez, Paulina (F) Crazy Cats El Paso, TX
3-2:00:20 @ 03:33 Briefer, Zach Saguaro Velo Tucson, AZ
4-2:02:43 @ 05:56 Jondall, Thomas Tucson, AZ
2-2:12:23 @ 15:36 Lopez, Carla J. (F) El Paso, Tx
3-2:19:58 @ 23:11 Cahill, Kelly (F) Corbin Huntair Scottsdale, AZ
LUNA LAKE TOUR
PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
May 29, 20 & 31
(ONE FORM PER RIDER)
Photocopies of this form are acceptable.
Please fill out all the blanks.
Leader: Rhonda Smith: 886-2919 or onekewlmom@hotmail.com
I am currently a GABA member:
(Circle) Yes No
NAME:__________________________
ADDRESS:________________________
CITY:___________________________
STATE________ ZIP ___________
PHONE: ( )___________________
E-MAIL _________________________
Vegetarian: Yes No (for SAG stops/meals)
Return this form & your check to: GABA
P.O. Box 43273, Tucson AZ 85733
PRE-REGISTRATION COSTS:
GABA/ABC Members: $65 $______
Non-Members: $75. $______
Dinner, Quemado: $7.50 $______
Breakfast, Quemado $7.00 $______
Dinner, Reserve: $7.50 $______
Breakfast, Reserve: $7.00 $______
TOTAL MONEY SENT: $______
Camping: ______ Motel: _______
CPSC-approved helmets are mandatory.
Please STAPLE your SIGNED WAIVER
to each registration form.
Salt River Canyon Ride
PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
May 15 & 16
(ONE FORM PER RIDER)
Photocopies of this form are acceptable.
Please fill out all the blanks.
Leader: Kathy Mills, (480) 759-7675 or
khendricks67@earthlink.net
Return this form & your check to: GABA
P. O. Box 43273, Tucson, AZ 85733
Option chosen: (Please circle) 85mi 65mi
Motel ______________ Camping ___
Vegetarian: Yes No (for SAG stops food)
Money enclosed:
GABA/ABC Member: $65 $____
Non-member: $75 $____
DAY OF EVENT-member $80 $____
DAY OF EVENT-nonmember $90 $____
Total money enclosed: $______
I AM Currently a GABA member: yes no
NAME
(print)_________________________
ADDRESS________________________
CITY_________ ZIP _______
PHONE ________
E-Mail_________________________
CPSC-approved helmets mandatory.
Please STAPLE your SIGNED WAIVER to each registration form.
FORMS & WAIVERS CUT WITH SCISSORS ARE VERY APPRECIATED!
SONOITA-BISBEE RIDE
PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
APRIL 17 & 18, 2004
(ONE FORM PER RIDER)
Photocopies of this form are acceptable.
Please fill out all the blanks.
Leader: Dick Schaffer, (520) 326-4807
or bikeschaf@aol.com
Return this form & your check to: GABA
P. O. Box 43273, Tucson, AZ 85733
Option chosen: (Please circle)
Motel ______________ Camping ___
Vegetarian: Yes No (for SAG stops/meals)
Money enclosed:
GABA/ABC Member: $45
Non-member ride fee: $55
DAY OF EVENT-member $60
DAY OF EVENT-non-member $70
Sat. Dinner at Copper Queen $15
Total money enclosed: $______
I AM Currently a GABA member: yes no
NAME
(print)_________________________
ADDRESS________________________
CITY_________ ZIP _______
PHONE ________
E-Mail_________________________
CPSC-approved helmets are mandatory.
Please STAPLE your SIGNED WAIVER to each registration form.
FORMS & WAIVERS CUT WITH SCISSORS ARE VERY APPRECIATED!
By Mike Kitchen
Oh another typical winter weekend day! Maybe the weather even allowed you to get
out for a change and do a ride with some friends. So here you sit with the
buddies, enjoying an after-ride breakfast or worse, your bike has been hooked to
the trainer in the basement for the past two months and you all drove to the
favorite hangout just to reflect back to the time when you were cycling.
Breakfast done, coffees being enjoyed, and it is time to think about what is
going to happen this summer.
Sure you have the normal weekend rides that are always fun and the trip to
___________ to see ___________ with _________ (feel free to fill in the blanks
as applicable). But, come on now, there has to be more to summer than that.
OOOOh yeah, there is that state ride in Iowa or Indiana or ___________ (again,
fill in the blank as applicable) that you have been doing for the past ten
years. You would hate to miss out on that. After all you did that ride last
vacation and the vacation before that and the time ... Fact of the matter is
that you have done that ride so many times, you could send the bike on it's own
since it has done the ride so often that it knows the way.
"But wait a minute" you say, I have always done that ride and I have always had
a good time. "I see the same people every year and we all have a good time and
you must admit that I know the route." I can't argue with you, _________ is a
great ride and it may even qualify as one of the truly great rides of all time.
Allow me to digress here for a bit; I love Mexican food, I mean I really love
the stuff. I go into withdrawals when I do not get a fix on a regular basis but
I don't eat it every night and if I did I would be pretty tired of it by fifth
or sixth time. You getting my drift here? Things get a bit old and stale and
(hold onto your hats here) CHANGE IS GOOD! Is that ride as exciting as the first
time you did it?
Now let me tell you something about GRAND CANYON TO THE OLD PUEBLO RIDE. GABA-Tucson
has been putting on this ride for twenty three years and they know what they are
doing. Did you know that Arizona has secret highways? Like other states, we have
the freeways to get the motorists from point A to point B, but in addition, we
have the beautiful two lane highways that are hidden amongst the forests and
deserts that we just do not tell people about unless they are on a bicycle. They
are great roads, with nice surface, decent shoulders and just made for cycling.
The best part of it is that there are few motorists for most of these routes.
How many rides start off at one of the Seven Wonders of the World? If you have
not seen the Grand Canyon, you need to, and if you have seen it you probably
need to see it again. There are few things in this world that help to put our
little concerns in perspective as effectively as standing on the edge of the
Canyon.
How many rides take you through well-preserved Indian ruins? Or for that matter,
ancient lava flows and extinct volcanoes? Have you ever gotten to ride through
the largest Ponderosa Pine forest in the country? When was the last time you
traveled through Zane Grey country?
In addition to the above: this year the Cross State will be traveling through
the beautiful Salt River Canyon. This giant cleft in the landscape, a 2,000-foot
deep canyon that has sometimes been called the mini-Grand Canyon, is packed with
some of the most dramatic views ever seen from a bicycle seat!
Unlike the Grand Canyon, where we will be traveling along its rim, on the Salt
River Canyon, we shall travel along a series of switchbacks that bring us down
to the Salt River, and then up the south side. At the bottom are two bridges,
one for traffic and one that has been set aside for a rest area. All along both
sides of the canyon are pullouts for that well deserved breather, that chance to
enjoy the view! Finish the day at the Apache Gold Casino with a great dinner and
a chance to learn a bit about the Native Americans that made a life out of this
rugged environment.
The final day is as gorgeous as days past. Fresh out from breakfast, the route
heads south again over El Capitan. Yep, another climb but like the others it's
not too steep and the scenery is more than sufficient to keep you enjoying the
ride. Ah, a wonderful downhill and this time through the resplendent Gila River
Gorge, and then alongside the Catalina mountains to the finish in Tucson.
Have you ever been on a cross state ride that had those-in-motels miles away
from those-that-are-camping? Not so with GABA. Whether camping or mottling, it's
important that we all stay together.
I am not real big on standing in line in the morning to brush my teeth or in the
afternoon to take a shower. When I ride all day, I want to relax when I am done,
and not have to work to get fed or clean. GABA keeps the amount of cyclists to a
low count so that everyone gets to know one another, and waiting in line just
does not happen.
I love getting to see new areas; most all towns have something that catches
one's attention, but when you get to that town with 2,000 other cyclists, you
overwhelm the entire area. You are not seeing a town; you are entering a giant
concession stand.
Having done quite a bit of solo touring in my day, I have learned to cook pretty
well, and of course, there is the occasional restaurant to break up the
monotony, but the meals are not something I look forward to. On GABA's Cross
State, there is no need to look for places to eat, though there are many along
the route. This outfit feeds you so well that if you leave the table hungry it's
your own fault! That goes for sag stops and for meals.
That does not mean that anyone should skip the world famous pie at Strawberry,
or breakfast burritos big enough to feed a whole paceline when in Payson; one
always needs to sample local specialties, but the Tour food is good and there is
a lot of it! That emergency Power Bar in your seat bag might just sit there for
the entire trip.
"Well gee wiz, I just don't know-I have heard that there are a lot of hills on
the Arizona Cross State and I'm just not sure I want to try and tackle that."
You got me there Bub, we do have hills and we will be climbing them and going
down too. In fact, if it will make you feel any better there is more down hill
that up, but you will be climbing! If you go to the GABA web site,
www.bikegaba.org then you can get an idea
of just how each day's ride is going to go.
No, we cannot promise that you will cruise through flat corn and soybean fields
all day; we offer much more, but you will have to work at it. Between now and
October, you are going to have to get in some long miles, and you probably need
to search out some hills and climb them as well. But all this is doable and very
rewarding. Let me put this in perspective; I am old, I am overweight, and I ride
a recumbent, and if I can do this ride and enjoy it, then most anybody can do it
as well.
So instead of doing that _________ (once again fill in the blank with the ride
that best applies) ride again, come on out and ride the GRAND CANYON TO THE OLD
PUEBLO. I promise that they will take great care of you ,and you will have a
ride under your belt that you will reflect on for years to come!
Saturday, May 8, 2004
By Bob Beane,
Phoenix Metro Club President
The Phoenix Metro Bicycle Club (GABA-Phoenix Metro) announces Saturday, May 8,
2004, as the date for the Third Annual Tour de Payson.
As the lower elevations heat up, join us for a Tour around the perimeter of
Payson and out scenic Houston Mesa Road. Enjoy pine trees and views of the
Mogollon Rim, with lunch after the ride. The new start/finish location will be
at Rumsey Park, large Ramada, on McLane Rd in Payson.
Due to the altitude and some steep hills, official distances will range up to 45
miles. Strong legs and/or triple-chain rings are suggested!
Registration will begin at 7 AM, with roll-out between 7:30 AM-7:45 AM.
Cost for this ride is:
$15 for PMBC/GABA/ABC members and Rim Country residents,
$20 for all other riders.
Late fee: add $10 for postmark after May 1.
Send standard GABA registration, or check web site for registration forms.
Call/e-mail Bob Beane at 480-961-1951 or marco3@cox.net AFTER 3/31/04 for
additional details and suggestions for overnight accommodations. This ride is
still in the planning stages as this newsletter goes to print.
April 23-25: La Vuelta de Bisbee.
Time Trials and Road Races in Bisbee. For info, dial (520) 432-5795, or check on
the internet at www.lavueltadebisbee.us
July 10 & 11: White Mountain Tour
Organized by GABA Phoenix. Two-day ride in the cool mountains of central
Arizona, riding from Pinetop to Springerville on the first day, and back to
Pinetop via Sunrise the 2nd day. More info next month.
Tuesday, April 13, 2004
6:30 - 8 PM
Columbus Library
No matter what your riding speed and strengths are, come to an informal talk on
how to organize, lead, and follow through on any given ride. Learn what to do in
case of a bike crash on your ride: accident reporting info as well as how & what
forms to fill out.
Contact Dick Schaffer at 326-4807 or at bikeschaf@aol.com in advance, should you
have other questions to be discussed. See you there.
Lon & Susan Haldeman's PAC Tour Training Camps are one of the best-kept
secrets in ultra-distance bicycling. Based in Sierra Vista, AZ, cyclists will
enjoy the fine weather and roads in the southern region of the state. Five
1-week sessions are offered, including breakfasts, lunches, sag stops, motels,
travel shirt, technical support, 200 and 300-kilometer brevets, plus some of the
driest spring weather in the US!
Aside from pedaling alongside the most accomplished ultra cyclists in history,
PAC Tour Training Camps are well known for their highly entertaining evening
seminars. Topics include Lon Haldeman's presentation on how to fix your bike
with roadside debris and "Eating to Survive a Long Ride (aka 100 miles on a
stick of gum)."
The first week ran Mar 6-13 and explored roads around Sierra Vista with 40-60
mile rides every day. Week 4 runs Mar 28-Apr 4 for riders wanting 60-100 miles a
day.
The last week of the Arizona Desert Training Camps is the unique Bike Friday
Camp, held April 4-11. It is a reunion of current Bike Friday owners, and is
open to anyone who wants to learn more about these amazing travel bikes. Test
bikes will be available, and Bike Friday engineers and staff will provide
evening seminars about designs.
For more info, visit www.pactour.com or call (262) 736-2453. (Reprinted from
Tail Winds, Feb-Mar 2004.)
You may need to prove your GABA-Tucson membership when making purchases at
local bike shops who generously give a "GABA Discount" to our members.
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.
For your information, not all bike shops offer a discount; the rate of discounts
offered may vary between shops; and it may be given only on certain kinds of
purchases.
So what are "GABA Bucks"?
"GABA Bucks" are credits issued by the club in increments of $5. They can be
used for anything the club offers for sale-including membership fees, ride fees,
jerseys, etc. "GABA Bucks" have no expiration date and can be transferred to
someone else. They can also be donated to local worthy causes.
How can I earn GABA Bucks?
1. LEAD A DAY RIDE:
This is worth $5 in GABA Bucks. If interested, contact Day Rides Coordinator
Judy Bolt, 512-0442 or bojubolt@aol.com
2. LEAD OR HELP WITH A CENTURY or OVERNIGHT RIDE: If interested, contact
Volunteer Coordinator Donna Aversa, dmaversa@aol.com or 742-0440.
"GABA Bucks" are earned as follows:
A. Run a SAG stop, baggage truck, sweep vehicle, or scout - $15 for one-day
events, $25 for 2-day, $30 for 3-day. If someone is helping you, you can split
the GABA Bucks however you want.
B. Help with registration/other tasks designated by ride leader - $5.
C. Lead a century ride - $25.
D. Lead a two-day overnight ride - $40.
E. Lead a three-day overnight ride - $50.
4. HAVE AN ARTICLE PUBLISHED IN THE UPDATE. This is worth $5 in "GABA Bucks".
Contact Editor, Suzanne Couvrette, at sgcouvrette@aol.com or 891-4661.
5.ORGANIZE A SPECIAL EVENT, such as picnic or ice cream social. This is worth
$20 in "GABA Bucks". If interested, contact Pam Cullop, Social Director,
290-4321 or pjcullop@ comcast.net
RAIN OR SNOW??
IF pre-registered for a RAINED OUT event you'll get a Credit Voucher for any
other ride for the amount you originally paid. Use these Vouchers before the end
of the year AND send a NEW Registration Form for the subsequent ride.