No Monthly Meeting on Monday, Sept. 4
Free Rides in the Cool Forests of Flagstaff!
Training for Your Personal Best in El Tour, next November!
Energize Your El Tour Training !
Welcome New and Renewing Members!
Training Rides for El Tour de Tucson XXIV
Tucson-Pima County Bicycle Advisory Committee
Tumacacori Century - Gene Chapman Memorial Bicycle Ride
Relationship Accelerators, The Benefits of Tandeming
ROAD I & ROAD II BIKE SAFETY CLASSES
Did You Miss the Eegees Social
Pima County Hires Ignacio Rivera de Rosales
BICAS - Serving the Tucson Community
(See related articles in this issue for details.)
Ride Date Ride Name Organizers Leaders E-Mail
8/5 (Sat) FREE Rides in Flagstaff GABA-Phoenix Kathy Mills khendricks67@earthlink.net
8/6 (Sun) FREE Rides in Flagstaff GABA-Phoenix Kathy Mills khendricks67@earthlink.net
9/2-4 Blue Loop Bike Tour GABA-Tucson Cliff Papin cpapin@earthlink.net
9/9 & 10 Gila Inner Loop Silver City, NM twinsisters@gilanet.com
9/10 (Sun) El Tour Training Rides start GABA-Tucson Tony Everett teverettaz@hotmail.com
9/16 (Sat) Willcox Ride to EuroFresh Farms City of Willcox Earl Humphries
eng1_98@yahoo.com
9/24 (Sun) Prescott Loop Challenge GABA Prescott Jerry Doss gcdoss@cableone.net
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Our regular monthly meeting usually held
on the 1st Monday of the month,
will be on the 2nd Monday of September,
because of Labor Day.
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Monday, Sept. 11 at 7 PM
What's "BICAS"??? Come join us to learn the important role that BICAS plays in
the Tucson Cycling Community. Ignacio Rivera de Rosales will explain what this
unique organization really does. He will also tell us about some of the classes
they offer and show us some of the unique art for which they are well-known!
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Monday, August 7 at 7 PM
Come see what happens when you take two bicycle racers and put them on 80 lbs
touring bikes!
Come join us as Alicia Heiserer and Mary Jo Erickson share the experiences of
their awesome Bavaria Adventure!
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AUGUST 2006
Aug. 12 & 13: GRAND CANYON TOUR. ABC – Richard Utterback, 602-400-2996, or
richardutterback@msn.com or www.azbikeclub.com.
Aug. 19-20-21: CARE & SHARE FOOD BANK OLD-FASHIONED MOUNTAIN BIKE FESTIVAL &
RACE. Absolute Bikes in Flagstaff. www.absolutebikes.net.
SEPTEMBER 2006
Sept. 2-4: THE BLUE LOOP. GABA-Tucson. Morenci to Glenwood, NW; Glenwood to
Alpine, AZ; and Alpine back to Morenci via the famous "Coronado Trail".
www.bikegaba.org Very scenic ride, but demanding and challenging terrain for
experienced riders. Ride Leader: Cliff Papin, (520) 403-5005 or cpapin@earthlink.net.
Sept. 9 & 10 : GILA INNER LOOP. Starting in Silver City, New Mexico. Contact
twinsisters@gilanet.com
Sept. 10 (Sun): OPENING DAY OF “EL TOUR” TRAINING RIDES. GABA-Tucson. Tony
Everett, 760-0458 or teverettaz@hotmail.com.
Sept. 16 (Sat): WILLCOX RIDE TO EURO-FRESH FARMS. City of Willcox. 44-mile loop
around Willcox. Win a new Trek 1000! For info, call (520) 297-0822, or (520)
507-2391, or eng1_98@yahoo.com.
Sept. 24 (Sun): PRESCOTT LOOP CHALLENGE. 54-mile supported ride around Prescott.
Organized by GABA Prescott. www.prescottcycling.org/index
OCTOBER 2006
Oct. 1-7: GREAT ARIZONA BICYCLE ADVENTURE. 26th Annual. 7 riding days, 546 total
miles with an average of 78 miles per day. Total elevation gain exceeds 30,000
ft. From Grand Canyon via Gray Mountain; Flagstaff; Camp Verde; Payson; Show
Low; San Carlos; and ending in Tucson this year. Optional bus trip to Grand
Canyon on Saturday, Sept. 30, and optional bus return trip to Phoenix on Sunday,
Oct. 8. GABA-Tucson. www.bikegaba.org or info line: 520-349-5932.
Oct. 7 (Sat) :11th ANNUAL BENEFIT TOUR OF THE WHITE MTNS. Near Pinetop, for
mountain bikes. Starting at Thunderhorse Ranch, same courses as last year. New
Website for registrations on line, starting mid-June. For info, www.nrmc.org/twm.htm.
Oct. 14 (Sat): COCHISE COUNTY CLASSIC XIX. Organized by PBAA.
www.perimeterbicycling.com
Oct. ? (Sat) : MEMORIAL RIDE FOR SAFETY. In Phoenix. PMBC for CAzB.
www.sportsfun.com
Oct. ? (Sun): HEART OF ARIZONA CENTURY. GABA-West Valley, Bullshifters, & ABC.
www.sportsfun.com
Oct. 21 (Sat): TOUR DE FARM. Diabetes Exercise and Sports Association.
www.tourdefarm.com
Oct. 22 (Sun): GENE CHAPMAN MEMORIAL TUMACACORI CENTURY. GABA-Tucson. Most
options start in Sahuarita, south of Tucson, and go to the well-known Tumacacori
Mission. Leaders: Judy & Bob Bolt, 512-0442 or bojubolt@aol.com.
Oct. 22 (Sun): SOUL RIDE MOUNTAIN BIKE. In Oracle. Todd Sadow, www.epicrides.com
Oct. 28 & 29 - NEW DATE! : CAVE CREEK OVERNIGHT RIDE. GABA-Tucson. 45-mile each
day. Ride on the east side of the Chiricahua Mountains, from Road Forks, NM to
Portal, AZ. This year, VERY LIMITED accommodations and meals at the Southwestern
Research Center. Fairly easy scenic ride! Ride Leader: Rhonda Smith, (520)
886-2919 or onekewlmom@hotmail.com. Limited to 42 riders this year! Register
early!
Oct. 28 & 29: MS 150. Multiple Sclerosis Society. http://ms150.dsw.nmss.org
Oct 29 (Sun) : PALO VERDE NUCLEAR CENTURY. GABA-West Valley. www.sportsfun.com.
NOVEMBER 2006
Nov. 5 (Sun): SILVERBELL CENTURY. This year, the Tom Mix Century makes way to a
revamped Silverbell Century, on a course with less traffic.
Nov. ? (Sat): McDOWELL CENTURY. ABC. Options for a metric century and a
half-metric century as well. www.azbikeclub.com
Nov. 11 (Sat): EL BIKE SWAP DE TUCSON. GABA-Tucson. On historic 4th Avenue!
Quaint central area of Tucson where vendors set up on each side of the Avenue.
Great turn-out at no charge to anyone! Greg Yares, (520) 323-9020 or yares@cox.net.
Volunteers are needed: if interested, call Greg.
Nov. 18 (Sat): EL TOUR DE TUCSON XXIV. PBAA. 24th annual. Counterclockwise
course again this year! 4 different options! More than 7,000 riders! Lots of sag
stops along the course, as well as thousands of volunteers to make your
experience a pleasant one! For info, (520) 745-2033 or visit
www.perimeterbicycling.com.
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Tucson Az Mtn Standard Time
AUGUST
RISE SET
A.M. P.M.
1: 5:38 7:21
7: 5:42 7:16
14: 5:47 7:09
21: 5:52 7:02
28: 5:56 6:53
SEPTEMBER
RISE SET
1: 5:59 6:48
7: 6:02 6:41
14: 6.07 6;32
21: 6:11 6:22
28: 6:15 6:13
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Wanted to buy: Woman's 24" frame road bike, 12 speed or more, prefer original
very good condition. Tires not important. Also need a used no-horn men's saddle
and seat post shock absorber. Bud O'Toole, (520) 319-1121. (Tuc)
2001 Meridian Cascade - Beamed Tandem. Captain's compartment: 53 cm. Stoker's
com-partment: adjustable anywhere from Mary Lou Retton to Sheryl Swopes.
Reasonably well maintained, 10K miles, Phil Woods Hubs, Chris King Headset, Race
Face BBs, Campy shifters adapted to Shimano rear dr, Arai Drum Brake. $2250 OBO
Bob/Linda Epstein, rye37@cox.net.
26" Meridian tandem frame. Never built. Small/Small, Sun Rhyno Lite 40 spoke
Wheelset, brand new. Race Face 170/170 crankset, 2 Race Face ti bottom brackets.
We're taking a loss @ $2000. Bob and Linda Epstein, rye37@cox.net.
Ksyrium Wheelset. Good shape, but missing some decals. Clinchers. $325 OBO.
Helium Wheelset. Clinchers. $250 OBO. Bob & Linda Epstein, rye37@cox.net.
TREK 7500FX Hybrid. 17" frame. One year old. Barely ridden. Rear rack included.
Fast & comfortable. New $700. Asking $400. Call Leslie or Madeline. (520)
321-1875, mcqi@yahoo.com.
Late 2005 TREK 2300. 54 cm. All Ultegra: STI Shifters, double crank/bottom
bracket, 10-spd cassette, brakes, front/rear derailleur. Bontrager Race Lite
wheel set with Bontrager Race tires; Bontrager seat post & 17 deg stem. Cane
Creek headset. Blue and grey. This beauty has about 1000 miles on it, cost $2300
new, asking $1250: Dave Marascio (Tucson) (520)661-3545 or dmarascio@cox.net.
Fluid Trainer: Performance Travel Trak 3 pro-vides quiet, progressive resistance
increasing w/speed. Simulates real riding conditions. Like new condition $60.
Rollers: Rollertrack rollers with 4-1/2 in dia rollers, extra belt. Rollers help
improve balance & pedaling. Like new condition, $60. Vinnie Hunt, (520) 544-8905
(Tucson) before 8 PM, or vinnieh25@msn.com.
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Looking for an out-of-the-ordinary ride this fall? October 28 & 29, 2006
By Rhonda Smith, Ride Organizer
This 45-mile "short but sweet" road ride begins in Roadforks, New Mexico, and
takes you to the eastern side of the Chiricahua Mountains and the spectacular
little town of Portal, at the entrance to Cave Creek Canyon.
The first 30 miles is through rolling hills with one long downhill to the first
SAG stop at mile 20. Then, we turn east towards the canyon and start a long
gradual climb to the Portal Country Store at about mile 37. The lunch stop will
be set up 2 miles further in the canyon.
After riding along a flowing creek in the shade of lush sycamore trees, riders
meander on the canyon floor between spectacular towering cliffs! You’ll be in a
narrow canyon with small meadows where deer graze at dusk. And, you’ll see birds
of all descriptions everywhere around you! Our destination is the Southwestern
Research Station (SWRS), located at the end of the paved road, 5 miles beyond
the Portal Country Store.
The dormitory-style lodging is operated by the American Museum of Natural
History. It is surrounded by the Coronado National Forest and offers a welcome
retreat from the heat of the desert. As you come upon this oasis, the beautiful
grounds with tall trees and green grass beckon you! The 60-foot long, cool,
creek-fed swimming pool will seem very inviting at the end of this gradual
climb! Enjoy ping-pong, volleyball, horseshoes and an interesting library as you
await a generous dinner prepared especially for us!
THIS RIDE IS LIMITED TO ONLY 42 RIDERS FOR THIS YEAR. REGISTER EARLY IF YOU ARE
INTERESTED!
Ride fee: $85 for GABA/ABC Members; $90 for non-members. Your fee includes:
Two sag stops along the course on Saturday;
A social mixer with snacks on Saturday afternoon around 3:30 PM;
Dinner on Saturday evening at 6 PM;
Breakfast on Sunday morning;
Lodging with bedding, towels and warm showers;
Sag support on the road on Sunday with a lunch stop 10 miles before the
finish.
Start location: Meet at the Shady Grove truck stop/restaurant (USA Petroleum) at
I-10 & Hwy 80, Exit 5, at Road Forks, NM, about 5 miles EAST of the Arizona-New
Mexico state line. Park away from the truck stop on the dirt area at the north
end of their parking lot.
Start time: Check-in starts at 8:30 AM. Please start riding no later than 9:30
AM. Allow at least 2-1/2 hours travel time from central Tucson to Roadforks,
about 135 miles.
Motel List
If anyone wants to drive over the night before, here is a list of motels. There
is no longer any lodging at Road Forks, NM. The closest lodging is in Lordsburg,
NM, about 15 miles EAST of Road Forks. There is also lodging at Willcox, AZ,
about 47 miles WEST of Road Forks. No endorsement is implied by listing any of
these motels:
Willcox, AZ:
Days Inn (520) 384-4222
Best Western Plaza Inn (520) 384-3556
Super 8 Motel (520) 384-0888
Royal Western Lodge, (520) 384-2266
Budget Riteway Motel (520) 384-4655
Motel 8 (520) 384-3270
Lordsburg, NM:
Western Skies Motel (505) 542-8807
Days Inn (505) 543-3600
Super 8 Motel (505) 542-8882
American Motor Inn (505) 542-3591
For more information, contact Ride Organizer, Rhonda Smith, (520) 886-2919 or at
onekewlmom@hotmail.com. Volunteers are always appreciated. Please call Rhonda if
interested.
CAVE CREEK BIKE TOUR
PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
OCT. 28 & 29 , 2006
(ONE FORM PER RIDER)
Photocopies accepted. Please fill out all blanks.
Leader: Rhonda Smith, (520) 886-2919 or onekewlmom@hotmail.com
Return this Form & your check to: GABA
P.O. Box 43273, Tucson AZ 85733
Options chosen: (Please circle)
Vegetarian Yes No
I would like to room with:
______________________________________
______________________________________
Pre-registration Fee:
GABA/ABC Members: $85 $____
Non-Members: $90 $____
(Must be received by 9/15)
Total money enclosed: $____
I am currently a GABA/ABC member: Yes No
NAME
(Print):_________________________________
ADDRESS:_______________________________
CITY:_______________ ZIP:_______________
PHONE: ( )
E-MAIL: ________________________________
CPSC-approved helmets are mandatory.
STAPLE your SIGNED WAIVER to each form.
Forms and Waivers cut with scissors are appreciated!
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A Premier Cycling Event!
September 2, 3 & 4, 2006
The time is approaching for one of the best rides sponsored by GABA-Tucson! Come
out with us and escape the heavy traffic and pressure of the big city, and relax
in the remote Arizona and New Mexico's scenic mountain countryside. You will
enjoy a total elevation gain of 16,977 feet over 3 days and 216 beautiful miles.
This year's ride is the traditional route that you have grown to know and love:
Morenci to Glenwood, to Alpine, and back to Morenci via the famous "Coronado
Trail" - 215 miles worth of an end-of-the-summer hurrah! The ride is fully
supported with sag stops and sweeps to ensure everyone enjoys the ride to the
utmost!
This ride is for experienced riders who are conditioned for long gradual climbs
as well as long exhilarating descents. This is a scenic ride with demanding
terrain! If you are looking for a great training ride for GABA's "Grand Canyon
to the Border Bike Tour", held this coming October, this is the one you want! Be
ready for all kinds of weather: It may rain at one point or another, and the
temperatures are likely to drop considerably! Very cool mornings in the
mountains will alternate with very hot afternoons.
Registration, Friday, September 1st.
Check-in for pre-registered riders, and registration for Day-of-Event riders,
will be held on the grounds of the Morenci Motel, from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM on
Friday night. To find us, look for a yellow GABA sign pointing the way. The
Morenci Motel, with a brand new menu for diners, will be serving dinner in their
restaurant until 9 PM on Friday night if you arrive hungry.
1st Day, Saturday, September 2nd:
Morenci to Glenwood, NM - 66 miles with 4800 ft. of elevation gain.
Get on your bike and roll on down into Clifton, then climb out of the Gila River
Valley heading northeast on Hwy 78 through Mule Creek and on to Glenwood
following the San Francisco River Valley into Glenwood.
2nd Day, Sunday, September 3rd:
Glenwood to Alpine, AZ - 58 miles with 5346 ft. of elevation gain.
Back on the bike with a gradual climb through pine forests in New Mexico as you
negotiate Saliz Pass and Luna Summit to the small town of Alpine at
approximately 8000 feet of elevation.
3rd Day, Monday, September 4th:
Alpine to Morenci - 92 miles with 6831 ft. of elevation gain.
Pedal SOUTH on US 191 along the famous "Coronado Trail" bringing you "blue"
vistas, green forests, and long descents! After a series of ups and downs in
high forests, riders arrive at Hannagan Meadow. Prepare yourself for
breathtaking scenery while cycling down many miles and many tight curves.
Gradual climb up to the lunch spot at Rose Peak. There are many more downs and
ups over small ridges, always with tremendous views, before the final 20 miles
of spectacular vistas as you pedal back down into Morenci.
Camping:
Friday night: At the Morenci Motel in Morenci on large grassy area.
Saturday night: In Glenwood at the park across the street from the Double T
Homestead B & B, 1 mile EAST of town on the Catwalk Road. Rustic, friendly
atmosphere with smooth camping spots! Hot & cold showers available.
Sunday night: In Alpine at the Alpine RV Park. Hot showers available.
Monday afternoon:
Showers available at the Morenci Motel after the ride.
T-Shirts: Special Blue Loop T-shirts have been designed by Steve Wilson Jr. to
celebrate GABA's 25th Anniversary this year. Get yours when you pre-register for
only $10!
Ride Fee for Pre-registered Riders:
GABA members: $85.
Non-members: $95.
Pre-Paid Meals:
Sat. Dinner in Glenwood: $12
Sun. Brkfst in Glenwood: $ 8
Sun. Dinner in Alpine: $12
Mon. Brkfst in Alpine: $ 8
Special Blue Loop T-shirts:
$10 with pre-registration.
Ride Fee for Day-of-Event Riders:
No meals will be available to day-of-event riders.
GABA members $105.
Non-members $115.
Early registration is critical to provide better support
and meals, and is very much appreciated.
Blue Loop Tour Pre-Paid Group Meals
To participate in group meals, you must register/pre-pay by 8/14th. Our hosts
need enough time to get the necessary food on hand to prepare these meals for
us. If interested in group meals, sign up early!
Morenci Sat. 5:30 AM (AZ TIME) Morenci Motel YOU PAY.
Glenwood Sat. 5 PM (AZ TIME) $12. Double T B & B PREPAID.
Glenwood Sun. 6 AM (AZ TIME) $ 8 Double T B & B PREPAID.
Alpine Sun. 5 PM (AZ TIME) $12. Alpine Inn B & B PREPAID.
Alpine Mon. 6 AM (AZ TIME) $ 8. Sportsman Lodge PREPAID.
Pre-registration is strongly encouraged; helmets are mandatory. Any questions,
contact Ride Leader Cliff Papin, at (520) 403-5005, or at cpapin@earthlink.net.
Volunteers always needed: be a part of this great event! Contact Cliff.
Blue Loop Motel List:
Friday Night in Morenci/Clifton:
Morenci Motel: 928-865-4111
Rode Inn (Clifton): 928-865-4536
Saturday Night in Glenwood:
Double T Homestead B&B: 505-539-2812
Lariat Motel: 505-539-2361
Crab Apple Cabins 505-539-2400
White Water Motel 505-539-2581
Doc's B & B 505-539-2611
Sunday Night in Alpine:
Alpine Inn: 928-339-1840
Alpine Cabins: 928-339-4440
Sportsman Lodge: 928-339-4576
Mountain High Lodge: 928-339-4311
Coronado Trail Cabins: 928-339-4772 (1 mi. S. of town)
Tal-Wi-Wi-Lodge 928-339-4319 (4 mi. N. of town)
BLUE LOOP BIKE TOUR
PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
Sept. 2-4, 2006
(ONE FORM PER RIDER)
Photocopies accepted. Please fill out all blanks.
Leader: Cliff Papin, (520) 403-5005
or cpapin@earthlink.net
Return this Form & your check to: GABA
P. O. Box 43273, Tucson AZ 85733.
Options chosen: (Please circle):
Motel Camping
Vegetarian Non-Vegetarian
Pre-registration Fee:
GABA/ABC Members: $85 $_______
Non-Members: $95 $_______
Glenwood dinner: $12 $_______
Glenwood breakfast: $ 8 $_______
Alpine dinner: $12 $_______
Alpine breakfast: $ 8 $_______
Special Event T-shirt: $10 $_______
Size ( circle): S M L XL XXL
DAY-OF-EVENT
GABA/ABC Members: $105 $_____
Non-members fee: $115 $_____
Total money enclosed: $_____
I am currently a GABA/ABC member: Yes No
NAME
(Print):_________________________________
ADDRESS:______________________________
CITY:__________________ ZIP:____________
PHONE: ( )
E-MAIL: ________________________________
CPSC-approved helmets are mandatory.
STAPLE your SIGNED WAIVER to each registration form.
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Either Saturday, August 5th or
Sunday, August 6th,
or Both Days
Join Kathy Mills for one or two days of pedaling in the pine trees!
She is organizing a "non-club sponsored" weekend of riding and fun in Flagstaff.
Drive up Friday night or Saturday morning in time to start at Lower Lake Mary
picnic area at 8 AM. Enjoy pine trees, blue skies, and cool temperatures!
Saturday: 4 ride options, starting at 8 AM:
1. Super short 20-mile ride around Mormon Lake;
2. Short 40-mile ride around Mormon Lake and south to Happy Jack;
3. Long 75-mile ride around Mormon Lake and south to Clint’s Well; and
4. Super long 100-mile ride to Strawberry and back.
Saturday evening, riders will meet at a restaurant for dinner at 6 PM. Stay at
one of the many hotels/motels available in the Flagstaff area. Check
www.flagstaffchamber.com for a list of options – from cabins to motels.
Sunday: 2 ride options, starting at 9 AM:
1. Sunset Crater/Wupatki Ruins, 49-mile loop. Plenty of climbing!
2. For less miles & a few hills, the shorter option skips the ruins and stays in
the pine trees near Sunset Crater for as few or many miles as you want.
Bring $5 each for entrance into the National Park.
As a "non-club sponsored" ride, there is no budget. Bring snacks to share at
rest stops (pretzels, peanut butter/bread, trail mix, fruit). Kathy will bring
water & Gatorade. Volunteers needed for support vehicle and rest stops.
To sign up:
Email Kathy at khendricks67@eathlink.net or call her at 480-759-7675 by August
2nd (Wed). Since this ride is not a club ride, signing up will let Kathy know
how many people will ride each distance for planning support. In the event of
continuous rain, the rides will be cancelled. It will not be cancelled for short
monsoon storms – a possibility.
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Saturday, Sept. 16, 2006
Join us for a FREE ride through the Willcox countryside and a tour of EuroFresh
Farms. Meet in Willcox at the Cochise Airport at 8 AM for a 44-mile ride. Riders
of various cycling levels are all welcome!
Raffle tickets are being sold for a new Trek 1000: 1 for $3 or 6 for $15. *It is
not necessary to participate in the ride or be present to win*.
For more info, contact Lonnie Davis @ (520) 297-0822 or Earl Humphries@ (520)
507-2391, or eng1_98@yahoo.com, or visit the GABA website to download a
printable flyer.
Win A New Trek 1000!
Join the City of Willcox & the Fire Dept.
for a Bike Ride around Willcox
on Saturday, Sept. 16, 2006
How do I win? Join us for a FREE ride through Willcox countryside and a "Tour"
of EuroFresh Farms. Raffle tickets will be sold thru the day of the ride. *Not
necessary to participate in the ride or be present to win.*
Raffle Ticket Prices: 1 for $3. or 6 for $15.
When/Where/What time: Saturday, Sept. 16, 2006 at 8 AM, starting from Cochise
County Airport in Willcox.
Cycling Level: All cycling levels are welcome. Gentle climb on the way out. 44
miles round trip.
More Questions: Contact Lonnie Davis @ (520) 297-0822 (leave a message) or Earl
Humphries @ (520) 507-2391 or eng1_98@yahoo.com.
Who is EuroFresh Farms? EuroFresh Farms sold over 100 million pounds of tomatoes
in 2004 of its premium quality, pesticide-free tomatoes, representing a
significant share of the U.S. greenhouse tomato market.
No other greenhouse is able to produce a consistent, high volume supply of
premium tomatoes throughout each month of the year. Even with 265 acres of
state-of-the-art greenhouses, the demand for EuroFresh Farms tomatoes still
outpaces current production capacity.
EuroFresh Farms has implemented computerized climate systems, which control
critical growing parameters like temperature, humidity, light, irrigation,
ventilation and carbon dioxide levels within the greenhouses. This
highly-controlled growing environment, in conjunction with the ideal growing
conditions in southern Arizona, allows EuroFresh Farms to generate consistent
yields of high-quality tomatoes throughout the year.
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September 9 & 10, 2006
Sponsored by the Silver Spokes Bicycle Club of Silver City, this tour has it all
– beautiful vistas and light traffic on well-paved winding mountain roads
through some of the most beautiful country the Land of Enchantment has to offer,
plenty of good food and entertainment!
DAY 1: Ride 45 miles from Silver City to Camp Thunderbird. For a greater
challenge, add 17 to 43 more miles by taking a side trip to Clinton P. Anderson
Vista or the Gila Cliff Dwellings. Start at 5,900 feet and climb to 7,473 feet
at the highest point. Ride north on New Mexico Highway 15, a narrow, winding
mountain road through Ponderosa forest. There are some fast downhills, tight
curves and no lane markings, so caution is in order. Vehicle traffic is light,
which makes for a very pleasant ride.
DAY 2: Return to Silver City through the Mimbres Valley with optional side trips
through San Lorenzo and to the Kneeling Nun Vista. Distances range from 35 to 52
miles for a week-end total of 84 to 140 miles.
Your Registration Fee Includes:
Sag Support: Baggage transported; you and your bike transported if necessary;
rest stops with fruit, cookies, bagels, water, sports drinks, etc.
Meals: Dinner and breakfast, as well as a lunch buffet upon your arrival at Camp
Thunderbird.
Lodging: Saturday night at Camp Thunderbird, a private camp in the Mimbres
Valley, which will provide dinner, breakfast, shower facilities, bunkhouses with
bunk beds & mattresses, and outdoor camping.
Free hot showers Sunday after the ride just across the street from the finish at
WNMU swimming pool from 1 PM to 4 PM. Thanks to Barbara James, WNMU Director of
Special Events for arranging access to the showers!
Start: Begin and end in the Western New Mexico University parking lot, 12th
Street & Louisiana, in Silver City. Registration & check-in from 8 to 9:30 AM on
Saturday. If planning to go all the way to the Cliff Dwellings, register at 8
AM.
Cost: $60 per rider, $45 per non-rider.
Limit: 130 people.
Weather: Expect daytime temperatures of 70's and 80's, with nights down to the
40's and 50's. Afternoon thundershowers are possible.
One room of one of the bunkhouses will be designated for snorers, and heavy
sleepers who don't mind those who snore. If you snore, look for this designated
room. Or camp outside. Thank you!
For more information and to register; please visit their website at
www.twinsisterscycling.com/gila_inner_loop_bicycle_tour.
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NEW Deadline:
OCT. 1, 2006
By Andy Stevens, Merchandise Coordinator
The current jersey artwork has served us well, but the 2007 jerseys will get a
fresh look and we’d like your help with the design.
The deadline for the contest is OCTOBER 1st, 2006. The winner will receive a
free jersey that features his or her design.
The contest is not limited to GABA members. We would like to encourage
interested persons to throw their artistic weight behind making this contest a
good challenge.
The GABA Board of Directors will decide the winner and work with that designer
to produce next year’s new look.
Our new design requires a palette of a maximum of 4 colors in addition to white,
and must take into account the fact that we have jerseys that are both short
sleeved and sleeveless.
Please contact Andy Stevens at 520-990-1459 or at andy@solvomassage.com if you
need more information or access to a jersey template.
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By Richard “Rich” Corbett
PBAA Bike Patrol Director
First, I want to say THANK YOU to all the GABA members who have ridden Bike
Patrol over the years, and especially for those who come back, year after year,
giving of themselves to help others.
For those of you who have not ridden Bike Patrol, do you want a new way to
experience El Tour de Tucson? A way that takes the pressure off you, and
actually rewards you for taking longer? Bike Patrol may be your answer!
I have ridden El Tour in 5:05 and 5:15 in the last few years, and must admit
that my most enjoyable ride was neither of these – it was my Bike Patrol ride in
2005 that made me feel SO great – I was able to help 13 different riders, and
take a nap in the middle of the ride!
I will also admit that we need more Bike Patrol than we have had in the last few
years, as we now have almost twice as many El Tour riders, and yet fewer Bike
Patrol (~ 90 in 2005, vs. ~ 110 in 2002). Please help us have a bigger, more
helpful Bike Patrol!
Bike Patrol pays only a very modest fee to enter – just enough to cover the
direct costs (we really do not want to take anything away from the charity),
ranging from $10 if you sign up early enough (before Tuesday, August 15); $15 if
postmarked Wednesday, August 16 through Wednesday, November 8, or $25 if
postmarked by Friday, November 10 and thereafter.
All Bike Patrol must attend a certification class of about 1.5 hours, every two
years, until you have bike patrolled 10 events in 8 years or less; then you will
only have to re-certify every four years.
DO NOT ride Bike Patrol if you want to go fast, if you are not naturally
inclined to help others, or if you are just looking for a cheap way to
officially ride in El Tour.
DO ride Bike Patrol if you don’t particularly care about your time, you get
satisfaction from helping others, you are ready to ride El Tour ‘differently’,
and/or you do not care whether you pay $10 or $100 to ride El Tour, because it
all goes for a good cause.
Having Bike Patrolled beginning in 1986, it is a habit – a good habit for me.
There are more than few others who have the same habit. Won’t you join us in
this good habit?
Think about it – you have a special opportunity – take advantage of it !!
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by Richard E “Rich” Corbett
Certified Cycling Instructor & Coach
Almost everyone knows you need to ‘train’ in order to ride farther and/or
faster. But what is the best way to ‘train’? How do you ‘train'? Is it good
‘training’ to go out every day and ride as hard as you can? Is good ‘training’
mixing weightlifting and cycling? Or, maybe mixing cycling and running? How
often should one ‘train’ to gain the most with the least effort?
Knowing and understanding some basic facts about exercise can help your training
be a lot better quality, especially when joined with some knowl-edgeable
coaching. Let’s look at some key areas of training.
Four Basic Components for Effective Training:
1) Aerobic training: Heart rate (HR) 60 to 80% of maximum, or a pace that allows
brief conversation;
2) Lactate threshold training: HR 80-90% of maximum, or a pace high enough that
one can say one or two words, but not whole phrases;
3) Anaerobic training: Hill work, weight training – when your muscles scream at
you – Stop! Stop!;
4) Rest: Easy rides or days off during the week, ‘plateaus’ at one level of work
before moving on to the next higher level.
Aerobic Training: Most of one’s early training rides are aimed at developing
your aerobic engine. A good aerobic base is the foundation upon which the rest
of the training program is built. Aerobic rides train your body to utilize
glycogen and fat stores more efficiently and improve your oxygen delivery system
by conditioning your heart to pump more blood volume with each heartbeat. Over
time, this translates to an increased cycling efficiency, allowing you to use
less energy for the amount of work done (or do more work for the same amount of
energy). You will develop excellent endurance. Long rides and the mid-week
training rides done at “pace”, the steady speed at which you intend to ride your
event, develop your aerobic capacity.
Lactate Threshold Training: Once you have a good aerobic base, you next start
training your body to remain aerobic at higher work levels. You can accomplish
this by doing repeated short intervals of harder work with easy recovery in
between. During these intervals, you will be breathing heavily, your muscles
will ache, and you will feel fatigued. Intervals should be followed by a rest
day (a day off or a day of easy riding). Rest days are absolutely critical to
help your body adapt to this new type of work.
The intervals themselves train your muscles to continue functioning despite
rising lactic acid levels. It is while you are resting, though, that your body
makes the adaptations that allow you to remain aerobic longer while working
harder. It does this by developing new networks of blood vessels to feed the
muscles. Better blood flow to the working muscles means more oxygen is delivered
and waste products are flushed away faster. Both these changes allow you to work
harder, longer, before you feel fatigued.
Three to five repeats of 5 to 12 minute intervals done at 80 to 90% of your
maximum heart rate, interspersed with 2 to 5 minutes of rest (or until your
heart rate returns to about 60% of max) will give this type of lactate threshold
training. Sustaining a steady “brisk” pace 2 to 4 mph faster than your planned
event pace, for an hour or so, is another way to produce similar results.
Anaerobic Training: Anaerobic training is critical for racers as well as long
distance riders, but is not as important for recreational riders. This type of
training increases the muscular strength needed for sprinting and hill climbing.
It trains a different type of muscle fiber than that used for aerobic work, and
equips the body for short bursts of very intense effort.
Attacking hills, charging up them at full effort, is one type of anaerobic
training. Short sprints are another (interval work done at full effort). Do this
type of training with a riding partner to keep your enthusiasm up. It is
punishing work!
Lifting weights in a gym will also develop muscle strength but will not raise
your lactate threshold as hill attacks and sprint intervals will. If you choose
to lift weights, seek the advice of a qualified trainer. Eliminate weight
lifting as your event draws closer.
Rest! Rest is critical to your development as a cyclist. Rest allows muscle
tissue to rebuild, blood vessels to grow, and keeps you mentally fresh. Rest for
2 days each week. One of these days should be “active recovery”, spinning along
easily at low effort. Use this day to ride with slower or beginning friends, or
to explore new neighborhoods or visit new places at a leisurely pace. Keep your
distance moderate and your heart rate just below 60% of maximum. You should be
able to chat easily and even sing out loud (if you are so inclined!). Pick a
beautiful, low traffic route at a nice time of day and just enjoy being out
there on your bike. This is why you love to ride!
Training yourself to ride near or at your maximum capability is not easy, and it
is most definitely not fun! It can be rewarding though, as you achieve times
and/or distances that you may never have believed possible! Try it.
Special thanks to fellow Instructor, and former Coach, Heather Fowler, now
living in Phoenix, for her contributions to this article.
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Special Opportunity for "C-" Riders
Saturdays,
August 12 through September 2
at Mission Library, Ajo & Mission
Coach Rich Corbett, and GABA-Tucson, will again this year offer a special
opportunity for C- (that’s C minus) riders to get ready to participate in the
'regular' El Tour Training rides that will begin (with 35 miles) on Sunday,
September 10th.
Rich will lead ‘coached rides’ for 4 weeks, starting with 15 miles, and working
up to 30 miles. These training rides will be on Saturdays, August 12 through
September 2.
The intent of this 4-week series is to increase your speed, improve your skills,
and help you make these training rides an enjoyable experience!
All rides will meet at Mission Library, Ajo & Mission Rd, NW Corner, in the
parking lot, at 6 AM and start no later than 6:15 AM on (please pump your tires
the evening before - not in the parking lot after you arrive!). Rich will
provide a variety of valuable training tips including effective riding
techniques.
C Minus riders are those who have moved up from D to C, but are still a little
below the normal C level (C riders average 12-14 mph, and ride with only a few
regroups).
So, this means C- riders should be able to average at least 12 mph, and ride
steadily for at least an hour without stopping.
If in doubt, you can call Rich at 623-0017, or e-mail him at kc7ovm@dakotacom.net.
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New Members:
Tony Shrader; David & Noriko Nevins; Steve Marshall; Heather Contorno; Tim &
Karla Gendler; Richard Rice.
Renewing Members:
Paul Jakeman; Gary Peterson; Robin Steinberg & Phyllis Webster; Rick Szabla;
Kenneth Kingsley.
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Starting Sun, Sept. 10th
By Tony Everett
GABA-Tucson President
El Tour time will be upon us before you know it. This year, El Tour will keep
basically the same route as last year with the counter-clockwise route around
the city. The exact route will be available later this fall from Perimeter
Bicycling. Check www.perimeterbicycling.com
This year again, GABA will be providing training rides to help you get ready for
the big event. The training rides, led by CRAIG GORDON, MIKE WOOD and NARAN
PATEL on the east side and by RICH CORBETT on the west side, will start the
weekend of September 10th, and will continue through the weekend of November
11th. The rides will start with a distance of 35-50 miles and steadily increase
each week to 90 miles the weekend before El Tour. This year, we will continue to
offer shorter route options for those who will be doing the shorter El Tour
routes.
The training rides are designed to gradually increase your riding distance and
endurance, familiarize you with the El Tour route, let you practice your ride
strategy and ride with others who are at your riding skill level. With the
exception of the two centuries, there is no cost for the training rides. The
centuries are fully supported with 3 or 4 SAG stops with lots of good food.
This year, GABA will again offer 2 starting locations: one at the northeast
corner of Grant & Silverbell on the west side, and one at Udall Park on the east
side. Details of the rides will be in the GABA monthly newsletters and on the
GABA website (www.bikegaba.org). Information about the two centuries can be
found in upcoming GABA monthly newsletters or on our website (www.bikegaba.org).
Date Time Mileage
Sunday, Sept. 10 6:00 AM 35/50
Sunday, Sept. 17 6:00 AM 40/60
Sunday, Sept. 24 6:30 AM 40/65
Sunday, Oct. 1 6:30 AM 40/70
Sunday, Oct. 8 6:30 AM 40/75
Sunday, Oct. 15 6:30 AM 40/80
Sunday, Oct. 22 6:30 AM GABA’s Tumacacori Century
Sunday, Oct. 29 7:00 AM 40/85
Sunday, Nov. 5 7:00 AM GABA’s Silverbell Century
Sunday, Nov. 12 7:00 AM 40/90
Perimeter Bicycling is expecting over 9,000 riders for this year’s event. Early
sign-ups are already coming in. Check the Perimeter Bicycling website (www.perimeterbicycling.com)
for sign-up information and entry forms. Note when the registration fees go up,
sign up early and save some money.
El Tour XXIV will be another special ride. If you’ve thought about doing El Tour
before but couldn’t quite convince yourself to take the plunge, this is the
year. If you’ve done one of the shorter distances in the past, consider moving
up to a longer distance, or even to the 108-mile event. The GABA training rides
will provide an excellent opportunity to get yourself in shape over time, and
for you to evaluate your capability for the event of your choice.
Perimeter Bicycling’s El Tour de Tucson is one of the finest century rides in
the country. You’ll find it difficult to find a better supported ride anywhere.
There’s nothing quite like cruising through intersection after intersection with
police officers holding back the traffic just for you. The camaraderie shared
with your fellow riders is special and not soon forgotten. In case you were
wondering, the majority of the riders are not from Tucson, but hail from across
the state, the nation, and a few from other countries.
Proper training is a critical prerequisite to a successful and enjoyable El Tour
experience. It’s key to start early and slowly build your mileage base to the
point you can comfortably ride 60-80% of the distance you plan to ride on El
Tour day. If you can ride 100%, that’s a bonus, but the excitement and support
on El Tour day will help carry you the extra miles beyond your normal training
ride distances.
It’s very important to experiment with foods and fluids during training, not on
El Tour day. Trying out a new energy bar or drink on El Tour day can lead to a
very unpleasant experience. As you’re training, try different combinations of
snacks and drinks and make a note of how you feel and how they affect your
energy level. If they don’t work out for you, try something else. Remember,
there is no magic formula that works for every rider. If your snack or drink
doesn’t taste good to you, you’re likely to avoid it just when your body needs
it most. Proper hydration is, of course, an absolute must. If you go out for a
4-hour ride and don’t have to urinate somewhere along the route, you are not
properly hydrated. Low fluid and electrolyte levels can rob your body of much
needed energy and endurance, and could make your El Tour experience an
unpleasant one.
So get ready to start putting in the training miles. Come join us for the
training rides and we’ll see you at the start line at sunrise on November 18th!
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GABA-Tucson
P. O. Box 43273
Tucson, AZ 85733
Board of Directors
President: Tony Everett 760-0458
PRESIDENT@BIKEGABA.ORG
Vice President: OPEN
Treasurer: Peggy Jacobsen 791-3049
TREASURER@BIKEGABA.ORG
Secretary: Sandi Rousseau 577-1187
SECRETARY@BIKEGABA.ORG
Membership: Steve Graeber 762-1363
psiclist@worldwerks.com
Publicity: Sally Krusing 296-0319
PUBLICITY@BIKEGABA.ORG
Bike Shops Coord.: Ram Salcedo 733-0230
salcedo@flash.net
Education: Matt Zoll 321-4471
mattzoll@cox.net
Day Rides Coord.: Jeanie Darnall 904-0207
DAYRIDES@BIKEGABA.ORG
Overnight Rides: Judy Bolt 512-0442
bojubolt@aol.com
Centuries: Sandi Rousseau 799-4406
sandir03@comcast.net
Update Editor: Suzanne Couvrette 891-4661
UPDATE-EDITOR@BIKEGABA.ORG
Corrsp/Rgistratn:DonnaLewandowski 740-6941
MAIL@BIKEGABA.ORG
Volunteers Coord: Dick Schaffer 326-4807
bikeschaf@aol.com
Merchandise: Andy Stevens 990-1459
MERCHANDISE@BIKEGABA.ORG
Webmaster: Dave Swanson 664-0429
WEBMASTER@BIKEGABA.ORG
Social Director: Pam Cullop 290-4321
SOCIALDIRECTOR@BIKEGABA.ORG
Bike Swap: Greg Yares 323-9020
Yares@cox.net
Shed Master: Bill Borland 299-3509
SHEDMASTER@BIKEGABA.ORG
Legal Advisor: Donna Aversa 742-0440
LEGAL@BIKEGABA.ORG
Cycling Advocacy: Wayne Cullop 290-4321
BICYCLINGADVOCATE@BIKEGABA.ORG
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June 14th 2006 Meeting
Report By Richard E “Rich” Corbett, Secretary
Members and guests present introduced themselves. Pending new members Howard
Merritt, of Sahuarita, and John Thaxton, of Davis Monthan Air Force Base, were
introduced.
#1: Law Enforcement Reports and Related Issues: Chair Tolton suggested that the
law enforcement written reports be included in the minutes of the meetings.
Sheriff’s Sergeant Bill Murphy reported that since May 1st, there were 4 injury
bicycle-motor vehicle crashes in unincorporated Pima County, including 3 with
cyclists at fault. One was a cyclist descending Mt Lemmon who sideswiped a car,
when the cyclist moved left as the car was passing.
Tucson Police Lt Mike Pryor reported there were 19 bicycle-motor vehicle crashes
in the last month (May), and 144 year-to-date (compared to 124 last year). All
but 2 of the 19 were intersection related. The apparent fault (as seen by the
investigating Officer) is still about 50-50 between dumb things bicycle riders
do (such as riding against traffic, riding at night with no lights, and running
traffic signals and stop signs), and dumb thing motorists do (such as turning
left in front of a rapidly approaching cyclist, pulling out in front of a
rapidly approaching cyclist, or rushing past a cyclist, jamming their brakes on
and cutting suddenly in front of the cyclist as they turn right). He said that
‘inattention’ by the cyclists was cited in 4 crashes.
John Fleming asked how reports of ‘negative interactions’ between cyclists and
motorists are normally handles. Lt Pryor answered that while there is not an
ideal way to handle these types of complaints at present, there is the “We’ve
Got Your Number” campaign, where complaint calls result in a letter to the
registered owner of the vehicle involved warning them about the conduct.
#2: Lt Pryor reported that HB 2796 passed the legislature and was signed by the
Governor. It will go into effect 90 days (approx. mid-to late September) after
the Legislative session ends. The bill removes motorized bike from their
previous status as mopeds, leaving them only loosely regulated. Other points he
made included:
- A basic element of traffic law is speed positioning - slower to the right,
faster to the left.
- Speed based enforcement (if for example, an ordinance was based on devices
traveling faster than 20 mph) is difficult, as bicycles are very hard to pick
out of the traffic background with traffic speed radar.
- The law as passed allows local jurisdictions to regulate, but motorized bike
proponents have put great pressure on the City, and his feeling is that
initiative for such regulation must come from the BAC.
Corbett pointed out that both technically and legally almost all of the region's
'bike lanes' are road shoulders. The new law allows the motorized bikes to "use
rights-of-way designated for the exclusive use of bicycles". He pointed out that
there are no rights of rights-of-way designated for the exclusive use of
bicycles in this region, other than a very few miles of MUTCD standard bike
lanes. All other area bike lane facilities are road shoulders, on a designated
Bike Route.
Lt Pryor said that the City Attorney wants to have an ordinance well before the
effective date of the Law. Wayne Cullop mentioned the importance of all area
jurisdictions addressing the situation, not just the City of Tucson. Steve
Bresler pointed out that with the engines not being USDOT certified, the burden
of proof as to engine size would be on the City. After some additional
discussion, the Parliamentarian pointed out that the Bill number in the agenda
is wrong (HB 2357 shown in agenda; actual is HB 2796), so it will not be
possible to take any formal action on this.
In conclusion, Chair Tolton asked that 1) members individually write/E-mail Lt
Pryor, and 2) she will write a letter to the City Manager relating the BAC's
concerns. Zoll asked that the letter focus on gas powered, since electric
powered bikes have not demonstrated themselves as a problem.
#3: Call to the Public: Citizen Eric Post mentioned that the Legislative session
would probably end in early July, and that he would be happy to assist with
ideas on gas-powered bicycle regulation.
#4: Review of Retreat Minutes, & Formation of BAC sub-committees: The draft
minutes of the May 13th Retreat were not included in the agenda packet, even
though E-mailed out by Secretary Corbett, June 8th. Bill Adamson had a copy, and
asked that they include language to indicate that it was agreed that facilities
and programs are both important.
A motion to approve the sub-committees as presented (Education, Enforcement,
Facilities, Planning & Programming, Communications, Community Outreach, and
Executive) was offered and passed.
There was a question as to possible duplication of facilities and planning &
programming. It was agreed that they are different, but related. Antol pointed
out that all sub-committees are not permanent - some are standing, some are not.
Corbett mentioned that there are at least two sub-committees currently existing
- Regional Planning, and Shared Use Path Rules. There was further discussion,
and each sub-committee was moved, seconded, then voted on individually, with
these results:
Education: (Beck/Aversa): approved with 11 votes of 12 in favor; Enforcement:
(Gorman/Clanagan): approved with 12 votes of 12 in favor; Communication &
Community Outreach: (McDonald/Clanagan): approved with 11 votes of 12 in favor;
Planning, Programming, & Facilities: (Clanagan/Gorman): approved with 11 votes
of 12 in favor;
Executive (Clanagan/Aversa): approved with 12 votes of 12 in favor.
Chair Tolton then asked that every member volunteer to be on one or more
sub-committees. Clanagan mentioned that the enforcement sub-committee needs to
be constituted tonight. Tolton named John Fleming as the sub-committee Chair,
and Aversa, Gorman & Corbett volunteered.
#5: Paved Shoulders on Frontage Roads: Bill Adamson warned that development
pressures might cause restrictions on Green Valley area bicycle use of frontage
roads. He stated that ADOT had been engaged in communication on the concerns,
and Mike Sanders, State Bicycle Program Manager, has reassured him that they are
in the official plans. A motion to authorize the Chair to send a letter of
support for shoulders on the frontage roads was passed unanimously.
#6. BAC involvement in RTA Plan and RTA applicants: Today was the (extended)
deadline for the CART Committee (Citizens for Accountable Regional
Transportation) applications. Gorman said she had submitted before the original
deadline. Guest (and potential member) Eric Post said he had submitted his
application today. Beck moved to authorize the Chair to send a letter to the RTA
regarding bicyclist representation on the CART, with Clanagan seconding, and the
motion passed unanimously.
#7. Selection of BAC representative for TETF grant review: Chair Tolton
indicated that member Zach McDonald had volunteered to do this. Clanagan moved
to approve of McDonald representing BAC on the Transportation Enhancement Task
Force (TETF); Bresler seconded the motion, and it was passed unanimously.
#8: Initiating a process for recognition of retiring BAC committee members
contributions and service: It was agreed that the Executive Committee would
handle this. Beck moved this, with Aversa seconding, and the motion passed
unanimously,
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Sunday, October 22, 2006
Mark your calendar! Join us for the most popular bicycle ride in Southern
Arizona! Three options are available for riders from novice to very experienced
cyclists: 25, 64 and 100 miles….and it’s great training for El Tour de Tucson!
Ride south through the scenic Santa Cruz River Valley, south of Green Valley and
Tubac to the Tumacacori Mission. 100-milers continue south of the Mission in
some of the prettiest scenery in the Santa Cruz valley.
All riders must check in at Sahuarita High School, exit 75 off I-19, (approx. 15
miles south of Ajo Exit). Pick up maps and rider instructions here. Start riding
after you have checked in and picked up your map & ride instructions. CPSC-approved
helmets are required for all riders. All traffic rules must be obeyed.
Last year, there were over 500 riders, and nearly 30% of those, registered on
the day of the ride! That makes it doubly tough to properly plan to provide YOU
with the best sag stops, facilities and LUNCH with enough food for all at the
end of the ride! So, please pre-register early this year!
Ride fee includes: 3 terrific sag stops with ice water, fruit, PB&J, various
snacks and cookies; sag support along the route for tired cyclists and weary
bikes; maps & rider instructions PLUS lunch at Sahuarita High School after the
ride!
This year, we are offering a special event t-shirt designed for our 25th
Anniversary! Sizes are Small, Medium, Large, X-Large and a few XX-Large
t-shirts. They are $10 each if paid for when you pre-register.
RIDE ORGANIZERS:
Bob & Judy Bolt, bojubolt@aol.com or (520) 512-0442.
Volunteers are appreciated and much needed. Interested? Call Bob or Judy.
WHEN: Sun. Sept. 24. Pre-registration on Sat. evening, Sept. 23, 6 PM-7:30 PM at
Iron-clad Bicycles, 710 White Spar Rd. Sunday registration: 6 AM. Ride starts at
7 AM.
WHO: Prescott Cycling Club (GABA Chapter). Supported by local bike shops.
WHAT: 54-mile loop challenge ride, with SAG support and mechanics, rest
stops/port-a-potty at Skull Valley & Wilhoit
WHERE: Thru downtown Prescott, out Iron Springs Rd to Skull Valley, Kirkland
Jct., Wilhoit & up Highway 89A to White Spar Rd. Back to Ironclad Bicycles
(start/end of ride).
WHY: Charity event benefiting our local Heritage Park Zoo.
REGISTRATION: Downloadable forms available on-line at our website:
www.prescottcycling.org/index
ACCOMMODATIONS:
Prescott Comfort Inn, 1290 White Spar Rd., 800-889-9774. BE SURE TO MENTION THE
SPECIAL RIDE RATE--$75 PER NIGHT! Includes continental breakfast (not the usual
juice, coffee & sweet roll) served early to accom-modate riders. Jacuzzi
available for after-ride TLC. Riders staying at the hotel will receive water
bottles. All riders will be entered in a drawing for 5 Gift Certificates for
your next stay at the Comfort Inn (good for one whole year!).
CAMPING: White Spar Campground,1.6 miles from Ironclad Bicycles, 710 White Spar
(start & finish). Check on camping restrictions due to fire danger.
PARKING: Downtown parking garage on Granite St., south of Gurley; on-street and
side-street parking where allowed. PLEASE DO NOT USE THE SAFEWAY PARKING AREA
(near Ironclad).
CONTACT: Jerry Doss, gcdoss@cableone.net, or call him at 928-776-0663 for more
information.
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By David Burnham,
Pima County Graphic Services
One of the frustrations of riding together as a couple is the inevitable
difference in fitness levels between the two riders. Often times one person may
be a hard-core seven-day-a-week cyclist and the other is a casual weekend rider
at best. On rides together, the person bringing up the rear may be resentful and
exhausted and the rider up front may be continually frustrated at a slow pace.
A tandem bike may be the best option for couples wanting to ride together. My
wife and I have put over 3,000 miles on our Raleigh Pursuit in the last two
years. This amount of mileage is small potatoes compared to what experienced
cross country couples routinely do, but it's a big deal to us. We've experienced
big thrills, great joy and sincere misery during those miles. As you might
expect, climbing often equals misery and descending means joy.
Tandems have been described by one of my friends as "relationship accelerators",
meaning that if your couple status is good, the cooperation required to ride a
tandem will bring you much closer together. If your relationship is on shaky
ground, a tandem bike can lead to an early breakup. either way, the truth comes
out sooner than it otherwise would. Every foot of every ride is a compromise on
some level. Fortunately, my wife and I are doing well - we still look forward to
riding the big bike on Sundays and nobody is considering divorce. We've gotten
to the point that we can read each other's minds about when to shift, when to
stand and when to rest.
Tandems are fast! On a flat surface, at twenty miles an hour, over ninety
percent of the effort required to move a bicycle is wind resistance. A tandem
has the power of two riders and hardly more wind resistance than a single bike.
On long rides, on the flats, and especially on downhills, single bikes have a
hard time keeping up.
One barrier to tandeming is the high cost of starting out. Inexpensive bikes
start at around $1,500 new, and go up to $5,000 or more. It may be best to start
with a used bike or rent one, if possible. We were fortunate enough to borrow
one for a few weeks which convinced us to pony up the dough for a big bike of
our own. the expense of purchasing a tandem is a big incentive to keep riding,
though.
Tandems also allow riders with disabilities and blind athletes to experience
cycling. there are many blind athletes who compete at elite levels on tandems in
the Paralympics. In fact, the National Champion Paracyclist, Jason Bryn lives in
Tucson. tandems can be modified to allow small children to ride with their
parents, where they can learn all about cycling from the rear seat.
Having owned one for nearly two years, I'd recommend a tandem to any couple that
wants to get out and have adventures together. It's a great way to breathe new
life into your relationship and adds a whole new dimension to cycling. You can
check out all kinds of tandems at local bike shops and there are numerous
websites with information for tandem riders.
(Reprinted from Walkin' & Rollin', Pima County Department of Transportation -
News for Pedestrian & Cyclists, June/July, 2006.)
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By Bill Adamson & Jim Jordan,
Co-Chairs, Santa Cruz Valley Bicycle Advocate Committee
About two years ago, the Green Valley bicycle community began discussions with
Pima County to get additional bikeways constructed. We formed what is now known
as the Santa Cruz Valley Bicycle Advocate Committee to work with Pima County on
numerous proposals. One of our first goals was to get 6-foot bike lanes added to
the north end of Camino del Sol.
Only a 0.7 mile section of 4-lane Camino del Sol prevented this major
north-south bike route from having bike lanes its entire length. We spoke with
Matt Zoll of PCDOT and he said it was a perfect application for what's known as
a "Road Diet". Learning about road diets, which include reducing the number of
unnecessary travel lanes in order to put in bike lanes, we decided he was right.
PCDOT did traffic counts showing that 4 lanes were not needed to handle the
traffic. Since both ends of del Sol were already only 2 lanes, we presented our
proposal to the Green Valley Community Coordinating Council for their approval.
We then requested PCDOT do the restriping, completed on 4/21/06.
So, we now have a continuous 5.8 miles of bike lane the length of del Sol, and
it was in use by bicycling, golf carts and walkers before the paint was dry! We
are very proud of this much safer road and also how Pima County responded to a
private citizen's group to accomplish the project.
(Reprinted from Walkin' & Rollin', June/July, 2006.)
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An educational program conducted exclusively by League Cycling Instructors and
sponsored by the Pima County Bicycle and Pedestrian Program
Sign up for 'Bicycle Driver' Classes today!
Would you like to learn how to develop the knowledge and skills that will give
you the equivalent of a "Bicycle Driver's License"?
These FREE courses include:
1. Street Savvy, Confidence, and Safety (Road I)
This course is perfect as a primer for those cyclists who wish to gain a full
understanding of how to safely operate a bicycle in a variety of situations. The
class includes learning how to perform a quick, easy bicycle safety check, fix a
flat, on-bike skills and practice, interactive discussion, and a student manual.
Students will gain confidence knowing that they are riding legally and safely.
Crash avoidance techniques and crash types will be discussed. Recommended for
adults and youth ages 14 and above (ages 10-13 okay with a parent). This course
is a pre-requisite to Road II. Participants in this class will receive a free
bike light kit, a bike frame pump, insulated water bottle, helmet, and safety
reflective tape (a $125 value)-plus a free lunch!
Classes offered:
A. Thursday July 27, 6:30 to 9:30 PM, East meeting room at Randolph Parks & Rec,
200 S. Alvernon Way) & Saturday July 29, 6:30 AM to 1 PM, East meeting room at
Ward VI council office, 200 S. Alvernon Way.
B. Wednesday August 23, 6:30 to 9:30 PM, Room 4 at Randolph Parks & Rec, 3202
East 1st St & Saturday August 26, 8 AM to 1 PM, Room 4 at Randolph Parks & Rec,
200 S. Alvernon Way.
C. Thursday September 7, 6:30 to 9:30 PM & Saturday September 9, 8 AM to 1 PM,
both in Room 2 at Udall Park, 7200 E. Tanque Verde Rd.
D. Wednesday September 20, 6:30 to 9:30 PM, West meeting room at Ward VI Council
Office, 3202 East 1st St. & Saturday September 23, 6:30 AM to 1 PM, West meeting
room at Ward VI Council Office, 3202 East 1st St.
E. Thursday September 28, 6 to 9 PM, West meeting room at El Rio Park, 1309 W.
Speedway Blvd. & Saturday September 30, 6:30 AM to 1 PM, East meeting room at El
Rio Park, 1309 W. Speedway Blvd.
2. Training & Fitness (Road ll)
For more advanced students with an understanding of vehicular cycling
principles, as evidenced by successful completion of Road I, this 12-hour course
includes fitness and physiology, training for longer rides, advanced mechanics,
pace line skills, advanced traffic negotiation, foul weather riding & night
riding. Student manuals included. Free insulated water bottle and lunch!
Classes offered:
A. Wednesday August 9, 6:30 to 9:30 PM & Saturday August 12, 6:30 AM to 1 PM,
both in West meeting room at Ward VI Council Office, 3202 East 1st St.
B. Thursday September 14, 6 to 9 PM, West meeting room at El Rio Park, 1309 W.
Speedway Blvd. & Saturday September 16, 6:30 AM to 1 PM, East meeting room at El
Rio Park, 1309 W. Speedway Blvd.
3. Commuter Class
A course for cyclists that are interested in riding their bicycles as
transportation. In this short 3 hour class we will discuss how to make your
bicycle comfortable and capable of completing most of your daily chores.
Students will also learn about on the road safety to ensure safe bicycle
travels.
Classes offered:
A. Thur. August 3, 6-9 PM, Room 4 at Randolph Parks & Rec, 3202 E. 1st St.
Classes limited to 15, so sign up early to get your preferred dates. For more
info on these classes, contact the Pima Co Dept. of Transportation, 740-6403.
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By Pam Cullop – Social Director
Are you one the many who escape the Tucson heat and leave town during the summer
months? You didn’t have to leave town to cool down last night…we had the very
thing to quench your thirst at the July Monthly Meeting: Eegee’s in 3 flavors:
strawberry, watermelon and pina colada, along with a bunch of other things to
snack on!
It was a night with no guest speakers, with only a short meeting to keep us
abreast of current GABA business and upcoming rides, and the rest of the
entertainment was up to us! It was a chance to talk, laugh and eat, in longer
than a span of the usual 15-minute break. Some of us (me) even got to hold the
newest addition to our GABA family - Cady (new baby girl to Andy and Dianne
Stevens) - sweetest little thing you ever set your eyes on!
It was great to mix and mingle. We shared with one another, all manner of
bike-related stories; 4th of July celebrations; monsoon rainstorm (for those of
us in town) experiences, up-coming summer vacation plans, and so on.
Tony (club Prez) raffled off lots of prizes including 3 GABA Anniversary tees.
Come join us on August 7 (first Monday of the month and traditional meeting
day), and be sure to get your raffle ticket at the door! New Members and First
Time Visitors are always welcomed with $5 in GABA Bucks, and a GABA patch kit;
last night was no exception as the lucky recipients discovered.
Although it was an intimate group by GABA standards, it was a very nice way to
spend a very hot summer evening. So, if you find yourself in town next year for
the (now) annual, July Eegee’s Social…please, do join us. You may come for the
flavored ice, but find that the camaraderie is the best treat of all!
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Get Ready
Get Set
Goal!
By Tony Everett, GABA President
El Tour de Tucson is rapidly approaching and GABA will once again offer a series
of training rides to help with your preparation.
This year, the PBAA is expecting you and approximately 9,000 of your new best
friends to participate in this event. The route will remain essentially
unchanged from the last few years with a counter-clockwise route around the
city. The final route will be available from www.pbaa.com in the very near
future.
Beginning September 10th, and continuing until November 12th, GABA will offer
training rides on both sides of town. Rich Corbett will be leading the West side
rides; and Craig Gordon, Mike Wood, and Naran Patel will be leading the East
side rides.
Now is the time to set your goals for this year's "El Tour". We can take a look
at our perfor-mances in years gone by, and decide how much we can ratchet up our
goals for this year. It could be time for a longer distance if we’ve been doing
the shorter rides, or if you're already doing the 113 mile ride, aim for a
Personal Best this year.
The GABA training rides are all designed with this in mind. We start with
shorter distances and gradually increase the length of the ride. At the same
time, the pace will also be picking up.
The training rides are also good practice for riding in groups, and will help
familiarize you with the route. There is plenty of time to set a training
regimen with your specific goals in mind. The sense of accomplishment and the
pride of achieving these goals make it all worthwhile.
Come join us on the training rides, and let us help you realize your goals.
Be Careful, Ride Safe, and Enjoy
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What: A family bike ride returning to an outdoor movie.
Where: BICAS: 44 W. 6th St., 6th St. & 9th Ave.
When: The 3rd Saturday of Aug., Sep., & Oct. at 6:30 PM: August 19th - Back to
the Future
September 23rd - Racing Stripes
October 21st –The Princess Bride
Who: You!
Why: It’s FUN!
A family fun movie night will be held at BICAS (Bicycle Inter-community Action
and Salvage) on the 3rd Saturday of Aug., Sept., & Oct.
The event will start with a short, fun, easy, family bike ride throughout the
downtown area led by certified League Instructors, starting at 6:30 PM. Return
to BICAS for artistic activities for the kids as we wait for the sun to fall.
Kids of all ages, even the grown-up ones, will be able to make bracelets and
other items, and repeat attendees may choose to further dec-orate their jewelry
during future movies.
The movie will start when it gets dark. There will be some light refreshments
provided by GABA. Seating space is outdoors and plentiful, though chairs are
limited so please bring one if you can.
Sponsored by: GABA, the Pima County Bicycle and Pedestrian Program, and BICAS.
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as a Full Time Bicycle and Pedestrian Educator
By Donna Lewandowski,
Pima County Safe Routes to Schools Coordinator
Pima County recently hired a third full-time employee for the bicycle and
Pedestrian Program. Ignacio Rivera de Rosales (AKA "Nacho") will be working
primarily with the Safe Routes to School Pilot Program to deliver bicycle and
pedestrian education to our seven pilot elementary schools. Additionally, he'll
be assisting with the adult bicycle education program as well as organizing and
teaching bicycle safety rodeos and safety events around the county.
Ignacio comes to us from two and a half years at BICAS (Bicycle Inter-Community
Action and Salvage). While there, he helped the co-op build and refine the
Build-A-Bike course series for both youth and adults, Ladies-Only bicycle
maintenance classes, courses in recycled bicycle art, and assisted with their
daily help-yourself education in the community tool area.
He has an undergraduate degree from Florida State University in International
Affairs, and is currently finishing up a master's degree at the University of
Arizona in Bilingual Education.
When asked what his vision is for the Safe Routes to School Program, Ignacio
responded: "…that all students in Pima County schools get proper education on
how to ride their bicycles safely and that we can change the culture on how
students get to school." He would also like to challenge the greater community
to discover the joy and benefits of walking and bicycling.
Welcome aboard, Ignacio!
(Reprinted from Walkin' & Rollin', April & May 2006.)
(Editor's Note: Ignacio Rivera de Rosales will be our featured speaker at our
regular monthly meeting on Monday, September 11th at 7 PM.)
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By Daniela Diamente, BICAS &
Ignacio Rivera de Rosales, Pima County DOT
Bicycle Inter-Community Action and Salvage (BICAS) is a collectively run
non-profit 501 (C) 3 that promotes education, art, and a healthy environment
while providing services and opportunity for those in need.
For over a decade, BICAS has been a catalyst for innovative projects by
soliciting the participation of the entire community in the process of bicycle
recycling and education.
BICAS is a lively, hip community space filled with locally, cooperatively
created ( …and waiting) works of art and people from all walks of life. The
color-coordinated writing on the walls, in both English and Spanish, eases you
through rows of bikes, crates of parts, and a whole wall of tools.
Located in the basement of an artist's warehouse just outside the heart of
Tucson, BICAS cradles the old town's train tracks while trying to encourage new
healthy forms of transportation.
Through their programs in Tucson, BICAS conducts "build-a-bike" courses for all
ages; facilitates a recycling center and a community workspace full of all the
tools and stands needed to fix your bike; leads Bicycle Maintenance workshops;
promotes Work Trade; and participates in public art projects utilizing BICAS
parts.
BICAS continues to grow as integral community resource for education and bicycle
advocacy.
BICAS is located at 44 West 6th St, Tucson AZ 85705; phone: (520) 628-7950, and
you can also reach them at bicasunderground@yahoo.com, or visit their website
at: www.bicas.org for more information.
(Reprinted from Walkin' & Rollin', April/May 2006.)