23rd Annual Senior Olympic Cycling Events
New El Tour 2006 Attendance Record & Contributions Raised
It was a Great Party, with lots of Good Food and Good Times!
Thanks to all 2006 GABA Day Rides Leaders!
El Tour de Tucson Training Rides Gain More Momentum Every Year!
Quick, Smooth Starts & Stops Techniques
Announcing the 2007 Arizona Bicycle Conference
New Century Looking for a Ride Leader!
Coming soon! Sonoita-Bisbee Spring Ride
Earn GABA Bucks When You Volunteer to Help on a Ride!
Revamped New Silverbell Century 2006 Wings First Year With Flying Colors!
2006 Ride Leaders Awards Given at the Holiday Pot Luck!
RTA Plan To Provide Over $80 Million For Regional Bicycle and Pedestrian Projects
A Clear Threat In The Bike Lanes
New Safety Classes in the Schools
(See related articles in this issue for details.)
Ride Date Ride Name Organizers Leaders E-Mail
1/1/07 (Mon) I Hate Football Ride C+ & B pace GABA-Tucson Peggy Jacobsen
treasurer@bikegaba.org
1/1/07 (Mon) I hate Football Ride C pace GABA-Tucson Rich Corbett kc7ovm@dakotacom.net
1/7/07 (Sun) Casa Grande Century PMBC Jane Larson jlreports@aol.com
1/20/07 (Sat) Senior Olympics City of Tucson www.tucsonseniorgames.org
2/11/07 (Sun) Picacho Century GABA-Tucson Suzanne Couvrette update-editor@bikegaba.org
3/11/07 (Sun) Sierra Vista Century GABA-Tucson www.bikegaba.org
4/1/07 (SUN) El Bike Swap de Tucson GABA-Tucson Greg Yares swapmeet@bikegaba.org
4/14 & 15 Sonoita-Bisbee Bike Ride GABA-Tucson Suzanne Couvrette
Update-editor@bikegaba.org
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Monday, February 5 at 7 PM
You might not think of Japan
as a good cycling destination
but Mike and Susan Burdick
will introduce your to
the rural northern Japanese Island
of Hokkaido
where biking was ideal,
food exotic
and public bathing popular!
Public welcome!
Also on the program, a short overview
of the Pima County regional plan
will be presented by Rich Corbett
with solicitation of feedback from the group.
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Monday, January 8 at 7 PM
"The Rain in Spain falls
Mainly on the Plain", or so it is said.
Join us at the January meeting
when Rupert Laumann
will share his bicycle trip to Spain with us
and give us the inside track
on the "Rain in Spain" rumor.
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JANUARY 2007
Jan. 1 (Mon): NEW YEAR'S DAY "I Hate Football" Ride. C/2/35 Rich Corbett,
623-0017 or kc7ovm@dakotacom.net. Meet at Udall Park, east end of parking lot,
at 9 AM for a ride to Saguaro National Park East. Return via Freeman Rd.
Optional lunch at Eclectic Cafe after the ride.
Jan. 1(Mon): NEW YEAR'S DAY "I Hate Football" Ride. C+& B/2/45 Scott & Peggy
Jacobsen, 791-3049 or pjtucson@earthlink.net. Meet at Old Tucson Studios for a
ride to Avra Valley. Return via Saguaro National Park West and McCain Loop.
Jan. 7 (Sun): CASA GRANDE CENTURY. PMBC. Options for 100, 62 or 34 miles. Ride
from Chandler to Casa Grande for lunch and back. Jane Larson, jlreports@aol.com.
Jan. 20 (Sat): SENIOR OLYMPICS - CYCLING EVENTS. TUCSON PARKS & REC. For info,
visit www.tucsonseniorgames.org or call 791-5914. Participants ranging in age
from 50 and above. Cycling events include a 1-mile time trial, 5K-time trial,
10K-road race, and 20K-road race. Volunteers needed!
FEBRUARY 2007
Feb. 11 (Sun): PICACHO CENTURY. GABA-Tucson. Options for 100, 65, 35 & 15 miles.
Flat course north of Tucson with meandering in Avra Valley. Turn-around point at
Picacho Peak. Ride Organizer: Suzanne Couvrette, Update-editor@bikegaba.org or
(520) 891-4661.
Feb. 11 (Sun): LAVEEN COUNTRY CHALLENGE. Starts and ends at Laveen Elementary
School, 51st Ave & Dobbins Rd. in Laveen AZ. For more info, check their website
at: www.lensenet.com
Feb. 17 (Sat): 24 HOURS IN THE OLD PUEBLO. For more info, contact Todd Sadow at
www.epicrides.com
Feb. 24 & 25: AZ SENIOR OLYMPICS, PHOENIX. Cycling Events. State Competitions.
602-261-8765 or www.seniorgames.org
MARCH 2007
Mar. 3 (Sat): LE GRANDE TOUR XX (in Casa Grande). AZ Parks & Rec. 800-335-PARK
or www.azpra.org
Mar. ? : GILA VALLEY TOUR. ABC. www.azbikeclub.com
Mar. ? (Sat): MINING COUNTRY CENTURY. PMBC. For info, www.sportsfun.com or Kathy
Mills, 480-759-7675.
Mar. 10 (Sat): TOUR DE CURE - TUCSON. Benefits the American Diabetes
Association. For info, 795-3711 x 7112 or www.diabetes.org/tour.
Mar. 11 (Sun): SIERRA VISTA CENTURY. GABA-Tucson. PROPOSED NEW EVENT THIS YEAR -
LEADER (S) NEEDED asap! Contact Judy Bolt, 512-0442 or bojubolt@aol.com.
Mar. ? (Sun): AROUND THE WHITE TANKS. GABA West Valley. Betsy turner, BetTur@qwest.net
Mar. 31 (Sat): EL TOUR DE PHOENIX XVI Organized by PBAA.
www.perimeterbicycling.com
APRIL 2007
Apr. 1 (SUN): EL BIKE SWAP DE TUCSON. GABA-Tucson On 4th Avenue, 8 AM-1 PM. Free
to all. Organizer: Greg Yares, 323-9020, or swapmeet@bikegaba.org In conjunction
with City of Tucson Clean Air Fair Events.
April ? (Sat): DESERT CLASSIC. ABC. Richard Utterback. www.azbikeclub.com
April ? (Sat): BIKE SWAP - Phoenix. Phoenix Municipal Stadium, 6 AM-1 PM. CAzB.
www.cazbike.com.
April 13-15: TUCSON BICYCLE CLASSIC STAGE RACE. TBC. Ride Organizer: Steve Bohn,
www.casaschurch.org/tbc/ or www.azcycling.com.
April 14 & 15: SONOITA-BISBEE BIKE TOUR. GABA-Tucson. Suzanne Couvrette,
Update-editor@bikegaba.org. 69 miles each day, or New this year: option for a
shorter 45 miles a day. Sonoita to Bisbee and back the next day via backroads
around the Huachuca Mountains. Rolling terrain, a few good hills. Great dinner
at the Copper Queen Hotel in Bisbee on Saturday night.
Apr. 27-29: LA VUELTA DE BISBEE.
April 27-28-29 : ANSWER TO THE CHALLENGE. PMBC. www.sportsfun.com/gaba
April 28 & 29: TRIANGLE L RANCH OVERNIGHTER. GABA-Tucson.
April 29 (Sun): TTM XXI - TOUR OF THE TUCSON MOUNTAINS. PBAA.
www.perimeterbicycling.com.
MAY 2007
May 5 & 6: SALT RIVER CANYON TOUR. GABA-Tucson. www.bikegaba.org. Globe to show
Low and back the next day. Great scenery, major climbs for experienced riders.
Leader TBA.
May 11 (Fri): Mt Lemmon Hill Climb. GABA-Tucson. Steve Wilson, 870-5282 or
wilsons@us.ibm.com. Small fee to cover sag support. Lunch in Summerhaven.
May ? : TOUR OF PAYSON. PMBC. www.sportsfun.com/gaba.
May 19 (Sat): WHISKEY OFF-ROAD MOUNTAIN BIKE. Prescott. Todd Sadow,
epicrides.com.
May 26-28: LUNA LAKE TOUR GABA-Tucson www.bikegaba.org. Approx. 60 miles per
day, from Springerville to Quemado, to Reserve and back to Springerville on 3rd
day. Very little traffic, some good climbs, great scenery.
JUNE 2007
June 3 (Sun): MT HOPKINS HILLCLIMB MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDE. GABA-Tucson. Tom Ward.
www.bikegaba.org Mt Hopkins is a 9,000 foot peak south of Green Valley. Mix of
dirt and paved roads.
June ?: GRAND CANYON TOUR. ABC – www.azbikeclub.com.
JULY 2007
July 4 (Wed): TOUR FOR TUCSON’S CHILDREN. City of Tucson Parks & Rec. Lisa or
Jesus at 791-4969, or contact Lisa.Sommer@tucsonaz.gov.
July ? : DAVE FREUND MEMORIAL WHITE MOUNTAIN TOUR. PMBC. Show Low to
Springerville via Vernon on the 1st day; Springerville back to Show Low via
Sunrise on the 2nd day. www.sportsfun.com
July ?: TAYLOR HOUSE BENEFIT CENTURY. Absolute Bikes in Flagstaff.
www.absolutebikes.net/flag_frset.html
AUGUST 2007
Aug. ?: FLAGSTAFF MOUNTAIN BIKE FESTIVAL. Absolute Bikes in Flagstaff.
www.absolutebikes.net/flag_frset.html
SEPTEMBER 2007
Sept. 1-3: THE BLUE LOOP. GABA-Tucson. Morenci to Glenwood, NM; 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.
Sept. ? : GILA INNER LOOP. Starting in Silver City, New Mexico. Contact
twinsisters@gilanet.com
Sept. 9 (Sun): OPENING DAY OF “EL TOUR” TRAINING RIDES. GABA-Tucson.
www.bikegaba.org.
Sept. 15 & 16: PROPOSED FALL SONOITA-BISBEE RIDE. GABA-Tucson. www.bikegaba.org.
Sept. 29 & 30 and Oct. 1-6: GREAT ARIZONA BICYCLE ADVENTURE. 27th Annual. Grand
Canyon to the Mexican Border. Camping/motel 500+ miles across Arizona from north
to south. www.bikegaba.org
OCTOBER 2007
Oct. ? (Sat) TOUR OF THE WHITE MOUNTAINS. Mountain bike event in the
Pinetop-Lakeside area. 10-66 mile single day endurance. Benefits Navapache
Regional Medical Center. epicrides.com.
Oct. 13 (Sat): COCHISE COUNTY CLASSIC XX. 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. 13 & 14: CAVE CREEK OVERNIGHT RIDE. GABA-Tucson. On east side of the
Chiricahua Mountains, from Road Forks, NM to Portal, AZ. www.bikegaba.org.
Oct. 21 (Sun): GENE CHAPMAN MEMORIAL TUMACACORI CENTURY. GABA-Tucson. Most
options start in Sahuarita, south of Tucson, and go to the well-known Tumacacori
Mission. Judy & Bob Bolt, 512-0442 or overnights@bikegaba.org. or
www.bikegaba.org.
Oct. ? : SOUL RIDE MOUNTAIN BIKE. In Oracle. Todd Sadow, www.epicrides.com.
Oct. ? (SAT): TOUR DE FARM. Diabetes Exercise and Sports Association.
www.tourdefarm.com.
Oct ? (Sun) : PALO VERDE NUCLEAR CENTURY. GABA-West Valley. www.sportsfun.com.
NOVEMBER 2007
Nov. ?: MS 150. Multiple Sclerosis Society. http://ms150.dsw.nmss.org
Nov. 4 (Sun): SILVERBELL CENTURY. GABA-Tucson. Options for 60 or 100 miles
Scenic course west of Tucson. www.bikegaba.org.
Nov. ? (Sat): McDOWELL CENTURY. ABC. Options for a metric century and a
half-metric century as well. www.azbikeclub.com
Nov. 10 (Sat): EL BIKE SWAP DE TUCSON. GABA-Tucson. On historic 4th Avenue!
Quaint central area where vendors set up on each side of the avenue. Great
turn-out at no charge to anyone! Greg Yares, (520) 323-9020 or swapmeet@bikegaba.org.
or www.bikegaba.org.
Nov. 17 (Sat): EL TOUR DE TUCSON XXV. PBAA. 25th annual. Counterclockwise course
again this year! 4 different options! More than 8,000 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
DECEMBER 2007
Dec. 2 (Sun): TUMACACORI FESTIVAL RIDE. GABA-Tucson. 30-40 miles to breakfast at
Zula's in Nogales. Start from the Tumacacori Mission and return to enjoy food,
craft & entertainment. For Mission info, call the Tumacacori National Historical
Park at (520) 398-2341. www.bikegaba.org
Dec. 3 (Mon): GABA-Tucson ANNUAL HOLIDAY POTLUCK. GABA-Tucson. At regular month
meeting location. Bring a dish to share with others in the spirit of the season!
Everybody is welcome! Short program with awards and recognition to deserving
members! www.bikegaba.org
Dec. 8 (Sat): TOYS FOR TOTS BIKE RIDE. GABA-Tucson. Bring one or more unwrapped
toys to carry on your bike as we pedal to the zoo to deliver our toys.
www.bikegaba.org
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Saturday, January 20, 2007
Volunteers Needed!
The 23rd Annual Senior Olympic Festival is quickly approaching. As in the past,
the City of Tucson Parks & Recreation will be hosting the cycling events on
Saturday, January 20, at Pima College West Campus. starting at 9 AM.
Participants, ranging in age from 50 and above, will be competing in a 1-mile
time trial, 5K-time trial, 10K-road race, and 20K-road race. Races are divided
by age brackets in increments of 5.
You must register between Tuesday, January 2 and Friday, January 5. Check the
website for this year's cost at: www.tucsonseniorgames.org. Check-in is ½ hour
before event starts.
Helmets are mandatory. Multi-gear bikes with front and rear brakes are required.
Fixed-gear bikes are not permitted. Recumbent bikes which meet USCF rules are
permitted. No protective shield, faring or other device on any part of the
bicycle which has the effect of reducing air resistance are allowed, except
those permitted by the USCF. No drafting allowed. U. S. Cycling Federation (USCF)
rules apply.
Volunteers are still needed in the following areas; traffic control,
start/finish attendants, participants check-in, bike holder, turn around
attendants and results coordinators. Volunteers will be needed from
approximately 8 AM to 3 PM. You may volunteer for just one job if you want. A
few hours of your time would be greatly appreciated.
If you are interested in volunteering on that day, or would like more
information about participating in the cycling events, please contact (520)
791-3244, or fax at (520) 791-5914 or visit our website at
www.tucsonseniorgames.org
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Sunday, January 7, 2007
By Jane Larson, Ride Organizer
The terrain is flat with low traffic, and if history repeats itself, the weather
will be a sunny 70 degree! What more could you want?
Two sag stops with water, fruit & snacks; a hot BBQ lunch at the turnaround
point, Dave White Regional Park in Casa Grande; a route map, commemorative socks
and a raffle ticket for bike-related prizes. Join 200-plus cycling friends for
PMBC's biggest ride of the year!
OPTIONS: 34 mi, flat out-and-back;
62 mi, metric century, out-and-back w/ slight hill.;
100 mi, flat loop.
START: Safeway: 4970 S. Alma School Rd, at Alma School Rd & Chandler Heights Rd,
NW corner (Chandler Heights Rd is between Queen Creek & Riggs Roads.) Please
park at lot edges, so we don't block Safeway customers.
DIRECTIONS: From Tucson take I-10 to Riggs Rd exit, go 3 miles east to Alma
School Rd, then 1 mile north to Chandler Heights Rd.
REGISTRATION: 8:30-9:30 AM. No mass start: leave after registering.
SUPPORT: Vehicles will be available to collect those suffering from physical,
mechanical or mental breakdowns.
QUESTIONS: Leader Jane Larson at JLreports@aol.com or call (602) 319-2238.
Registration forms available at www.sportsfun.com/gaba. This ride is organized
by Phoenix Metro Bicycle Club.
Ride Fee:
PMBC/GABA/ABC members by 12/30/06: $15
Non-members by 12/30/06: $20
PMBC/GABA/ABC members after 12/30/06: $25
Non-members after 12/30/06: $30
Note: Why not join PMBC now? Get our monthly newsletter, and this ride at member
prices! Add $15 for a one-year individual membership, or $20 for a one-year
family membership.
Make checks payable to PMBC, PO Box 26788, Tempe AZ 85285-6788. Riders must obey
all Arizona traffic laws and must wear ANSI, ASTM or Snell-approved helmets.
PLEASE DO NOT PAY FOR THIS RIDE WITH GABA-TUCSON GABA-BUCKS! THE GABA-BUCKS ARE
ONLY USED WITHIN THE TUCSON CHAPTER.
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President: TONY EVERETT
Vice President: STEVE KANOZA
Treasurer: PEGGY JACOBSEN
Secretary: SANDI ROUSSEAU
Membership: STEVEN GRAEBER
Publicity: SALLY KRUSING
Education: MATT ZOLL
Touring-Day: JEANIE DARNALL
Touring-Centuries: JILL HEWINS
Touring-Overniters: JUDY BOLT
Editor: SUZANNE COUVRETTE
Volunteer: DICK SCHAFFER
Web Master: DAVE SWANSON
Legal Advisor: DONNA AVERSA
Social Director: PAM CULLOP
Bike Shop Coord.: RAM SALCEDO
Correspondence: DONNA LEWANDOWSKI
GABA Merchandise: SANDI ROUSSEAU
Shed Master: BILL BORLAND
Bike Swap Coord.: GREG YARES
Great AZ Bike Adventure: DOROTHY BARTH
Elections of officers will take place at the January Meeting, on Monday, January
8, 2007 at 7 PM.
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TWO COMMUTER BIKES FOR SALE: GILMOUR, 56cm, full Mavic Grupo, triple chainring,
down tube SIS Shifters. Mavic wheels, very good condition. $550 OBO. TREK 8900
MOUNTAIN BIKE, 18” frame, triple chain ring. No suspension, two sets of wheels
and tires, road and knobby. $450 OBO. Call Fred, 577-9667 (Tuc) or fredlynn5390@comcast.net
ORGANIZING 2 BIKE TOURS NEXT SUMMER: Basel, Switzerland - Venice, Italy,
5/26-6/17/ 07. Coach supported round trip across Switzerland, the Austrian Alps,
the Trentino Dolomites to Lake Garda, zigzagging through the Veneto to Venice.
Switzerland by bike, train & boat : 8/18-9/9/ 07. Van and Swiss Travel Pass,
supported round trip from Basel to all regions of Switzerland: Lakes Geneva,
Constance & Lucern, Zermatt, St.Moritz, Ascona etc. Swiss Travel Pass for dense
public transport system incl. Both tours 22 nights, hotels, breakfasts, dinners,
transfers included - $3,100. Organized by Laurenz Gsell (GABA member who rode
the Cross State Tour in 2001), and his wife, Corinne. Details at
www.bikeandhike.ch or call them at 0041 61 723 2210.
NEW TANDEM FOR SALE: Burley Rumba; 21x18" (53x46 cm); 27-speed, STI shifting,
adjustable stoker stem; V-brakes. Super paint job! $1,850. Call Rudy, 742-2518
for test ride!, or zonatandem@yahoo. com.
TREK 6500 Mountain Hardtail, 19", purple, Manatou front shock. Like new.
Computer and seat bag included: $500. Carol Merfeld, 490-4524 (Tuc).
WANTED TO BUY: Woman's suburban cruiser, large frame (23"-24"), w/1½" tires, 10
speed or more, in very good condition. Tires not important. Bud, 319-1121 (Tuc).
SPECIALIZED CARBON FIBER ROAD BIKE FOR SALE. 55cm frame; Shimano STI/Ultegra
component group; new tires; very good condition. $600 OBO. David, 621-1801 (Tuc)
or gantz@law.arizona.edu.
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Mtn Standard Time, Tucson Az
JANUARY
RISE SET
A.M. P.M.
1: 7:25 5:30
7: 7:26 5:35
14: 7:25 5:41
21: 7:23 5:47
28: 7:20 5:54
FEBRUARY
RISE SET
A.M. P.M.
1: 7:18 5:57
7: 7:14 6:03
14: 7:08 6:09
21: 7:01 6:15
28: 6:53 6:20
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Sunday, February 11, 2007
Options for 100, 65, 35 & 15 miles
By Suzanne Couvrette, Ride Organizer
With a course almost entirely flat and a variety of options, this century offers
many opportunities for cyclists of different abilities. Distances offered are
suitable for families and novice riders, as well as more experienced riders.
This is also a good century to set a new Personal Best!
Starting at Cortaro & Silverbell, cyclists head north on Silverbell Rd. and up
over Rattlesnake Pass, a small hill at the north end of the Tucson Mountains.
Then, the course meanders in Avra Valley thru backroads, to the first sag stop
in Marana. Riders will then continue north on the east frontage road to Picacho
Peak, the turn-around point for all options. The return uses the same route, in
reverse. Maps will be provided.
100-milers have a slightly different course in Avra Valley: they will ride up to
the end of the paved road in Ironwood National Park.
Look for a lunch stop stocked with good sandwich makings & snacks, located just
past the Picacho Peak exit. Two other sag stops along the route will furnish
water, fruit & goodies, to give cyclists fuel and some time to socialize.
Most of the course has little traffic. Scenic Picacho Peak looming in the
distance keeps changing shape as you get closer and closer!
Pre-registration is VERY much appreciated. Helmets and good riding practices are
mandatory.
PRE-REGISTRATION FEE:
GABA Members: $20
Non-Members: $25
DAY OF EVENT FEE:
GABA-Members: $30
Non-Members: $35
Why not join GABA-Tucson today?
Get our monthly newsletter delivered to your door AND this ride at member
prices!
Add $15 for a one-year individual membership,
$18 for a family membership,
or $10 for student members.
Sign-In Location For All Options:
Cortaro & Silverbell (NE corner); (exit 246, then west one mile).
Park along Silverbell so we don’t block regular customers.
Everybody Must Sign In At This Location
And Pick Up A Course Map.
Registration time:
8 AM for the 100-milers;
8:30 AM for the 65-milers;
9 AM for the 35 & 15-milers.
This way, there will be less waiting at the start,
and everyone will arrive at the Lunch Stop in time for lunch!
STARTING LOCATIONS:
100-MILERS: Cortaro & Silverbell (NE corner). Start riding from here after
signing in and picking up your route map. You should be on the road no later
than 8:30 AM. Your turn-around point is at the Lunch Stop near Picacho Peak.
Watch for GABA signs along the course, as your route will be different from the
shorter options.
65-MILERS: Silverbell & Twin Peaks (NE corner). Drive 3 miles north on
Silverbell to Safeway parking lot. First, you must sign in at Cortaro &
Silverbell to pick up your route map. Start riding when ready. Your turn-around
point is at the Lunch Stop near Picacho Peak. Watch for GABA signs along the
course, as your route will be different from the longer option.
35-MILERS: Circle K in Marana, west side of freeway. Drive north on I-10 to
Marana, exit 236. First, you must sign in at Cortaro & Silverbell to pick up
your route map. Start riding when ready. Your turn-around point is at the Lunch
Stop near Picacho Peak. PARK ONLY IN DIRT LOT WEST OF THE CIRCLE K, SO THAT WE
DON'T INTERFERE WITH THEIR BUSINESS!
15-MILERS: Red Rock, on east frontage road. Drive north on I-10 to exit 226.
Park on East frontage road, just after coming off overpass. First, you must sign
in at Cortaro & Silverbell to pick up your route map. Start riding when ready.
Your turn-around point is at the Lunch Stop near Picacho Peak.
DIRECTIONS TO THE START:
FROM TUCSON, TAKE I-10 NORTH TO EXIT 246 (CORTARO RD.), then West one mile.
FROM PHOENIX, TAKE I-10 SOUTH TO EXIT 246 (CORTARO RD.), then West one mile.
For more information on this ride, contact Ride Organizer Suzanne Couvrette at
update-editor@bikegaba.org or (520) 891-4661.
Want to help? Everyone needs to take a turn to help make all our GABA rides a
success! Please call Suzanne if interested.
PICACHO CENTURY
PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
Sunday, February 11, 2007
(ONE FORM PER RIDER)
Photocopies of this form are acceptable.
Please fill out all blanks.
Leader: Suzanne Couvrette, 891-4661 or update-editor@bikegaba.org
Return this form & your check to: GABA, PO Box 43273, Tucson, AZ 85733.
Option chosen: (Please circle)
100 miles 65 miles 35 miles 15 miles
All options must sign in at
Cortaro & Silverbell first,
then drive to specific starting points.
Money enclosed:
Member fee: $20 $______
Non-member fee: $25 $______
DAY OF EVENT - member fee: $30 $______
DAY OF EVENT - non member fee: $35 $______
Total money enclosed: $_________
I AM Currently a GABA member: yes no
NAME
(print)______________________________________
ADDRESS___________________________________
CITY______________________ ZIP _____________
PHONE _____________________________________
E-Mail_______________________________________
Participation in this event requires
use of a CPSC-approved helmet.
Staple your signed Waiver to each form.
Forms & Waivers cut with scissors are appreciated!
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(Unofficial - As of 11/27/06)
(1) Record Attendance at El Tour de Tucson:
The Registration Department of the Perimeter Bicycling Association of America,
Inc. announced on Monday, 11/27/06, that a new attendance record was set in
First Magnus 2006 El Tour de Tucson XXIV presented by Diamond Ventures with an
unofficial total of 8,089 registered cyclists (plus 140 Indoor El Tour
Cyclists). Official stats will be available in January, 2007 and will be
released in Tail Winds Feb/Mar ’07 Issue. Attendance totals include:
(a) 109 - Mile First Magnus El Tour Event 4,789 (Record: 4,880 in 05)
(b) 81 – Mile Pulte Homes El Tour Event 435 (Record: 473 in 01)
(c) 66 - Mile Intuit El Tour Event 1,144 (Record: 1,104 in 05)
(d) 35 - Mile Town of Oro Valley El Tour Event 1,217 (Record: 1,114 in 05)
(e) Subtotal (a+b+c+d) 7,585
(f) Bike Patrol by Rural Metro/SW Ambulance 108 (Record: 141 in 91)
(g) Kids Fun Ride by Tucson Medical Center 396 (Record: 534 in 94)
(h) Subtotal (e) + (f) + (g) 8,089 (Record: 8,041 in 05)
(i) Indoor El Tour by LeMond Fitness 140 New Event! Record!!!
(j) Grand Total (unofficial) for 2006 8,229 NEW RECORD!
(2) El Tour de Tucson Contributions:
The Fiscal Department of Perimeter Bicycling Association, Inc announced the
following (unofficial) contribution totals raised in El Tour ’06:
(a) American Parkinsons Disease Association Over $15,000 (Still counting)
(b) Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Still counting
(c) Tu Nidito Children & Family Services Over $210,000 (Still counting)
(d) Other Perimeter Charities Over $5,000 (Still counting)
Final Contribution Figures should be available within the next three weeks.
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By: Pam Cullop
If you missed the Annual Holiday Potluck this year, what can I say except – too
bad for you! You cannot believe the amount of dessert that was on hand…and we’re
not talking just any old dessert…we are talking super-duper-fabuloso, to-die-for
sweet stuff!!! Salads, and breads – yum, yum! Side dishes that were apparently
quite wonderful, as I didn’t get a single taste! Turkeys (roasted and smoked),
hams, gravy, dressing, home-style mashed potatoes, and veggies; all kept nice
and warm, thanks to the use of portable chafing dishes. Man, this was some
feast!!!
And the ambiance ~ the transformation of the medical building was astounding!
Tables were set up in cozy seating arrangements; they were topped with blue and
silver adornments, and small green trees. Garlands were strung from high places
- around doorways, across the tops of tall pieces of furniture and windows,
adding a regular holiday atmosphere to the occasion!
Soothing music from an acoustic guitar played by Howard Wooten (our favorite
party musician), floated softly in the air. Howard seamlessly threads together
traditional holiday tunes with everyday contemporary songs creating a calming
effect for all; I never tire of this newest part to our potluck tradition!
A continuous slide show (compliments of Steve Wilson) of various 2006 GABA rides
and events played prior to, and throughout dinner. One could sit and enjoy the
“movie”, or glance at a photo now and again between bites of dinner and engaging
conversations.
At the conclusion of the meal, Club President Tony Everett, conducted a short
business meeting. Then came the fun part: Volunteer Appreciation Awards. The
meeting portion of this annual event has evolved into a time and the place to
acknowledge ‘volunteers of the year’. Because volunteers are the backbone of our
existence, they are sincerely appreciated (and are always needed).
We like to make known certain accomplishments. Each year, Ride Coordinators face
the difficult task of nominating Ride Leaders for Day, Overnight & Century
Rides. This year’s awards went to: Jim Spafford, Rhonda Smith & Judy Bolt,
respectively. Other awards were presented for various rides or contributions to
the club, and then it was time to eat more dessert, visit a while longer with
new and old GABA friends, and of course, enjoy the holiday music!
I keep saying it – but it is true – ask anyone who attends…Make the time to be
here next year, you won’t be sorry you did!!!
In closing, I would like to thank the people were instrumental in making this
year’s party the best one yet!
Food:
Turkeys: Sandi Rousseau, Don Harmon & Bob Bolt
Hams: Donna Aversa & Judy Bolt
Dressing and Gravy (for 100): Marie Klenke
Mashed Potatoes (for 100): Donna Aversa
Set Up & Decorations (and if I leave anyone out, I apologize up front):
Suzanne Couvrette, Dale Caughlin, Gary George, Bill & Linda Epstein, Jack &
Guenda Spafford, Another couple from Green Valley whose names I didn’t get, Don
& Shirley Harmon, Bob & Marie Klenke, Bill Borland, Sandi Rousseau, Judy Bolt,
Donna Aversa, Steve & Donna Kanoza, &…everyone else who pitched in at the last
minute to lend a helping hand!!!
Clean Up
Most everyone who helped set up – and more!
Looking forward to working with each of you in the year ahead!
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Below is a list of all the our major rides with the names of the Ride
Organizers. We want to recognize the tremendous work done by these volunteers
and thank them for a job well done.
Being a century or overnight ride organizer can be a fun and satisfying
experience, but it does entail some prep work ahead of the ride as well as on
the day of the event itself. We have many people in the Club who are experts at
organizing rides and can help new ride leaders get started. Overnighters and
Century Organizers do earn "GABA Bucks" as a reward for their hard work. See
article on how to earn "GABA Bucks" on page 15.
Several of the rides listed below will need new ride organizers this year. For
info, or if interested in leading a major ride, contact Judy Bolt, 512-0442 or
overnights@bikegaba.org.
2006 Century and Overnighters Ride Leaders:
Picacho Century: Suzanne Couvrette
Coolidge Century: SANDI ROUSSEAU
Spring Bike Swap: Greg Yares
Sonoita Bisbee: Suzanne Couvrette
Salt River Tour: Judy Bolt & Carolyn Audilet
Luna Lake Tour: Pam Cullop & Cliff Papin
Mt Hopkins: Tom Ward
Blue Loop Tour: Cliff Papin
Cross State Tour: Dorothy Barth
Cave Creek Tour: Rhonda Smith
Tumacacori Century: Bob & Judy Bolt
Silverbell Century: Suzanne Couvrette
Fall Bike Swap: Greg Yares
Tumacacori Festival: Tom Ward
2006 Social Events:
25th Anniversary Celebrations: Pam Cullop, Sally Krusing & Suzanne Couvrette
Holiday Pot Luck: Pam Cullop
Toys for Tots: Pam Cullop
Winterhaven Ride: Pam Cullop
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By Judy Bolt, Overnighters Coordinator
Have you received GABA bucks for volunteering at some event? Do you know where
you stashed them? Are they hidden under your mattress?
It’s time to bring them out and SPEND them! GABA bucks can be used to:
• Purchase GABA merchandize;
• Pay registration fee for GABA rides (only a couple of exceptions);
• GABA membership fees;
• Bicas accepts GABA bucks for some things.
If you do not want to spend your GABA bucks for any of the above, you can donate
them to any of the bike-worthy causes that GABA promotes. They are:
• RAC Bicycle Give Away Program;
• Greg Hockensmith Hand Cycle Fund;
• Care Fair;
• July 4th Tour for Tucson's Children;
• Latin American Social Club;
• PBAA;
• Tucson Bicycle Classic.
To donate your bucks to any of the above causes, simply mail them to GABA, PO
Box 43273, Tucson AZ 85733 and indicate which cause you would like your bucks
donated. So dig around & gather up those GABA bucks and get them back to GABA!
Special kudos to anyone who can name the fit guy whose photo appears on GABA
bucks.
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Sunday, January 1, 2006
Mark your calendar! What better way to start the year? This year, there is two
rides to choose from:
1. Join Rich Corbett, 623-0017 or kc7ovm@dakotacom.net, for a moderate "C" paced
35-mile ride to Saguaro National Park East. Meet at 9 AM at Udall Park, (east
end of parking lot) on Tanque Verde Rd., just east of Sabino Canyon Rd. Return
via Freeman Rd. Optional Lunch at the Eclectic Café after the ride.
2. Or join Peggy & Scott Jacobsen, 791-3049 or pjtucson@earthlink.net, for a
more vigorous C+/B paced 45-mile ride to Avra Valley. Meet at 10 AM at Old
Tucson Studios at 201 S. Kinney Rd. Return via Saguaro National Park West and
McCain Loop.
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Thanks to all of you for sharing your time with other GABA riders! If we forgot
anyone, please accept our apologies! This year, we were fortunate to have fifty
Day Ride Leaders, many leading a lot more than once! If you are interested in
leading Day rides, please contact Jeanie Darnall, Day Rides Coordinator at
904-0207 or e-mail her at dayrides@bikegaba.org.
(List Compiled by Suzanne Couvrette, Editor.)
Chris Anderson B Bob & Judy Bolt C+
Jim Carley C Rich Corbett C
Suzanne Couvrette C Elinore Craig C
Wayne Cullop C+ John Downey C
Ted Eazer C Bob & Linda Epstein B
Gene Espinosa Tony Everett C , C+
Gary Finke C Craig Gordon
Helen Greer C+ Deb Haas/Wyrsch B
Beth Heiman C Sam Insana C
Rob Hubbard C+ Peggy Jacobsen C+
Scott Jacobsen C+ Sally Krusing C
Rupert Laumann B Wendy & Mike Magras
David Marascio C+ Linda Matson C+
Hector Melendez Laura Meyer C+
Naran Patel Roger Peskett
Manuel Ramos B Ram & Chris Salcedo C
Duane Schrock D Steve Shoemaker B
Jack & Guenda Spafford B Doug & Roberta Toussaint
Tom Ward Harry Watson & Pat Moran C+
Charlie Weesner B+ Steve Wilson
Mike Wood Eric & Lisa Wyckoff B
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By Richard E. “Rich” Corbett
West Side Ride Leader
This year, the GABA Tucson "El Tour Training Rides" continued to be popular for
even more Tucson cyclists than last year. The East side rides, beginning at
Udall Park averaged about 100 cyclists per week, and the West side rides,
beginning at Grant & Silverbell, were up a little, with an average of about 60
cyclists per week.
The peak on the east side was 122, and on the west side 72, with a number of
riders each week getting to the start too late to sign in, but riding with us
anyway.
Mike Wood and Craig Gordon were the Ride Leaders for the East side rides from
Udall Park, and were assisted by Wayne Cullop, who rode with the 40-mile riders.
The East side rides continued to be very well attended, and popular.
I was the Ride Leader for the West side rides from Grant and Silverbell Roads.
We did not have anyone who acted as escort for the 40-mile riders, but we will
next year. Our numbers increased this year too, but not as much as the East side
ride.
The 2007 rides will be more varied and will not have as much cross town riding
as many of our rides this year did (i.e., Broadway & Speedway).
All in all, the weather cooperated well, as no ride was shut out by bad weather
(one Sunday had threatening weather, but it depended on where you were as to
whether it rained on you) and again we had no mishaps that I am aware of. I
continue to be impressed with the steady riding of our riders.
It is our most sincere hope that all those who participated in the training
rides met or exceeded their El Tour goals. We hope to see you back next year,
ready to set another personal best, and have fun doing it!
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By Richard E. “Rich” Corbett
Certified Master Cycling Instructor & Coach
Can you make a quick, clean, effective start? How about a matching stop? Do you
know what makes a good start and stop? This article is meant to help you make
better starts and stops. Many times, cyclists make weak, half hearted,
ineffective starts. Good starts are important for several reasons, including
effectiveness, pride, and safety.
Starts: Here are the steps is a good start:
1. Straddle your bike's top tube with both feet solidly on the ground. DO NOT
try to sit on your saddle and balance yourself*!
2. Grasp your handlebars firmly with both hands. On a slope, you may need to
apply one or both brakes to stabilize yourself.
3. Bring one pedal UP until the crank arm is parallel to (alongside) the down
tube (the down tube is the one that slopes from the head tube to the bottom
bracket, and generally has your primary water bottle cage on it).
4. Place your foot on the UP pedal if it is not already there (this position may
seem high until you get used to it, because many cyclists position their pedal
too low for good starts).
5. Now, start by pushing off with the foot that is on the ground, while rising
and standing (DO NOT SIT YET) on the UP pedal, at the SAME time. This simple
'double shot' of energy input should "launch" you quite quickly.
6. NOW you can sit (not too quickly though), and if you have toe clips or
cleats, either slip/click your "free" foot in immediately, or pedal on the
"bottom" of the pedal to move across the street and/or pick up speed, then slip
or click in.
7. That's all! You have now made a quick, smooth start. An empty parking lot is
a good place to practice this.
Stops: Here are the steps for a comparable good stop:
1. Shift to the gear you will need to start out in, then coast.
2. As you near (~ 20 to 30 feet) where you want to stop, stand off the saddle,
on the pedal that is opposite the foot you will put down on the pavement (in
most cases your right foot).
3. Brake gently with both hands, as you slow and come close to your stopping
point, while at the same time you slip or click out of the pedal with the foot
you will put down on the pavement.
4. Just as you come to a stop, lean to the side, and place your foot down, as
you continue to hold at least one brake.
5. If you are going to stay stopped, take or click your other foot out of the
pedal, and place it on the ground, so that both feet are firmly down. Do not do
this if you will be starting out again.
6. That's all! You have now made a quick, smooth stop. An empty parking lot is
also a good place to practice this.
Summary:
The keys to good solid starts include not sitting on the saddle, raising the
pedal higher, and both pushing off and standing at the same time. Good quality
stops include downshifting as you approach your stop, braking with both hands,
standing off the saddle, and putting only one foot down (at first).
Try this approach. You too will look distinctly more accomplished and you will
actually start off quickly and efficiently!
* Note: Standing on your pedal, and not sitting on the saddle is very important
for both good starts and stops. Doing so lowers your center of gravity, and
makes you much more stable – try it and see!
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By Tony Everett, President
As I read Time Magazine’s “By the Numbers” the other day, it dawned on me that
there are a lot of things, about GABA, and our activities that may not be
general knowledge. I decided this could be the forum to let everyone know more
about our club.
Did you know that we are a legal non-profit defined by the Internal Revenue
Service as a 501(C) 3 charity? This means that we have a defined purpose in our
charter as a non profit. Our purpose is essentially described each month in the
update as the “Purposes and Objectives of GABA”
Did you know that GABA is a Sponsor to the PBAA? We contribute each year and are
identified as the Safety Sponsor for the El Tour de Tucson.
Did you know that GABA has purchased or funded the purchase of hundreds of
helmets for Tucson children in the last few years? What piece of equipment is
more essential for the safety of children on bikes!
Did you know that GABA has funded the purchase of nearly 100 bikes for the Latin
American Club? These bikes are given to under-privileged children who otherwise
would not have a bike.
Did you know, that GABA has purchased, and will donate a new bike rack for
installation at Saguaro National Park East? This popular ride destination is
always short of parking for bikes at the ramada. It will be installed in the
very near future.
Did you know, that GABA has funded the purchase of a projector for the Safe
Routes to School Program? This program has become popular in the community that
they didn’t have enough equipment to make all their presentations. We were able
to help.
Did you know, that GABA provided some equipment for an inner city H.S. to help
establish a cycling team. They were able to ride the El Tour as a team with our
help.
While we enjoy our rides, we should take pride in the fact that that we are
helping to promote safe cycling in our community. Every member and ever rider
who has joined us on one of our supported rides can know with absolute certainty
that part of their ride fees is supporting many worthy charities in our own
community.
On behalf of all them, THANKS!
Be careful, Ride safe, and Enjoy
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Friday, March 30, 2007
Perimeter Bicycling Association of Arizona, PBAA, website:
www.perimeterbicycling.com and the Coalition of Arizona Bicyclists, CAZB,
website: www.cazbike.com will hold the 2007 Arizona Bicycle Conference on Friday
March 30, 2007, the day prior to PBAA’s “El Tour de Phoenix” bike ride.
The conference will feature presentations and panel discussions on bicycle and
pedestrian laws, street survival, government programs to improve cycling, how
Tucson changed from a "bronze" bicycle-friendly city to a "gold"
bicycle-friendly city, and bicycle training and nutrition.
The luncheon will feature awards to individuals and groups that have made an
impact on cycling in Arizona and a special presentation on the history of women
and cycling. Conference attendees will receive a discount towards entry in “El
Tour de Phoenix.” Sponsors are being sought to help cover costs.
Watch for the conference flier, awards nomination form, and more details on the
PBAA and CAZB web sites, or contact Conference Chair Kathy Mills at 480-235-5052
or Email kmills@millseng.com.
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My name is Jeanie Darnall and I joined GABA about a year ago. What a pleasure it
has been exploring new rides and meeting healthy people! I realized right away I
wanted to give back to the club that was offering me so many opportunities.
Serving as Day Rides Coordinator for the past year, I now could use a second
person to help me. Together, we can brainstorm more weekday and weekend rides
without taking too much time out of our schedule. Please contact me and I’ll
share my ideas with you: info@desertcreations.com or 904-0207.
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How about a new century for GABA-Tucson? We are looking for something different
for the month of March to replace the Coolidge Century whose attendance has
dwindled over the years.
A proposed course, a one-day event with 2 options starting in Sierra Vista, is
on drawing board. It needs someone to finalize all the details and make it
happen in March 2007!
How about you? Yes, you! The one who rides all the centuries, but never yet has
stepped up to the plate! This is a great opportunity to shape this new century
into a popular annual ride for years to come!
So, don't hesitate! It could be one person, or a team of two or more persons.
There are plenty of experienced Board members who would be willing and able to
assist and advise. But time is of the essence!
If interested, call Judy Bolt, Overnighters/ Centuries Coordinator, at 512-0442
or you can also contact her at overnights@bikegaba.org.
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April 14 & 15 , 2007
Mark your calendar! Make your reservations early! We are in the process of
confirming all the arrangements for this great ride. An article with all the
details will be published in the February Newsletter. There will also be camping
available, as in previous years.
Motel List (updated 1/07)
Make your reservations early as Bisbee Accommodations can fill up quickly!
We will deliver luggage ONLY to the following 16 places (but you can make your
own arrangements if you wish to stay at places not on our list):
Audrey’s 888-437-4263 www.audreysinn.com
Canyon Rose suites 866-296-7673 www.canyonrose.com
Carolina Suites 520-432-2977 garland@rioverderealty.com
Copper Queen: 520-432-2216 www.copperqueen.com
Eldorado Suites 520-432-6679 www.eldoradobisbee.com
Gardens at Mile High 520-432-3866 www.gardensatmilehighranch.com
Gym Club Suites 520-234-5921 www.bisbeelandmark.com
High Desert Inn 520-432-5747 flwrchld1969@msn.com
Inn at Castle Rock: 800-566-4449 www.theinn.org
Mayberry's Place 520-234-1252 www.inntheoaks.com
OK Street Jailhouse 520-432-7434 www.okrealtyinc.com
Old Bisbee B&B 520-432-2080 www.oldbisbeebnb.com
San Ramon Hotel 520-432-1901 hotelsanramon.com
School House Inn 800-537-4333 www.schooljouseinnbb.com
Silverking Hotel 520-432-3723 sparkyriviera@earthlink.net
Weather Station Inn 520-432-1691 www.weatherstationinn.net
Chamber of Commerce 520-432-5421 www.bisbeearizona.com
PLEASE! DO NOT use Hotel La More
(or any other accommodation NOT listed here) as it is impossible for our truck
to negotiate some of Bisbee's very narrow streets.
Also, some places do not have a turn-around area for a large truck.
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What are "GABA Bucks"?
"GABA Bucks" are credits issued by the Club in increments of $5. Use them for
ride fees, member-ship fees, jerseys, etc.; they have no expiration date; can be
transferred to someone else or donated back to GABA to help with worthy causes
supported by GABA.
How can I earn GABA Bucks?
1. Lead a Day Ride: Worth $5 in GABA Bucks. Contact Day Rides Coordinator Jeanie
Darnall, 904-0207 or dayrides@bikegaba.org.
2. Lead or Help on Overnighters or Centuries: Contact Volunteers Coordinator
Dick Schaffer, 326-4807 or volunteer@bikegaba.org.
"GABA Bucks" are earned as follows:
A. SAG stop, baggage truck, sweep vehicle: $15 for one-day events; $25 for
2-day, $30 for 3-day.
B. Help at registration or with any other tasks
designated by the 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.
3. Write an article for the UPDATE. Worth $5 in "GABA Bucks". Contact UPDATE
Editor, Suzanne Couvrette, update-editor@bikegaba.org, or 891-4661.
4. Organize Special Events (picnic/ice cream social, etc.). Worth $20 in "GABA
Bucks". Contact Social Director Pam Cullop at socialdirector@ bikegaba.org or
290-4321.
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4495 S. Coach Dr.
Tucson 85711
By Suzanne Couvrette, Ride Organizer
The Silverbell Century had been around for a long time! But, it never had found
its place in the GABA calendar: either it was too late in the season, or too
early in January when it was too cold to ride. By scheduling it in November, 2
weeks before El Tour de Tucson, we found the perfect place for this ride that
can now grow each year.
When I took on this "new" century, I also was looking to pick a course that
would allow riders long flat stretches to really work on their speed and
stamina. Plotting a "new" course takes time and patience, but I think that we
now have a good course, with minimal traffic for a good portion of it. However,
I know that the 100-milers were robbed of the full 100 miles, but wait!
Next year, the plan is to start this ride at a location more to the east by many
miles, and to use some of the newer roads, now under construction, to get to
that magic number: 100 miles!
The Silverbell Century 2006 was a great success! The weather was perfect, blue
skies and plenty of sunshine, no winds and mild temperatures. 222 riders
actually came to the start, eager to start riding on this beautiful morning!
The course was well marked at every turn with our new GABA signs that can be
attached to existing traffic signs wherever needed. Four sag stops with friendly
volunteers were located at strategic places to give riders plenty to eat along
the course.
Thanks to all the volunteers who made this ride a great success! At Sag #1, in
Rancho Vistoso, we had Lois Zuniga and Elva Klassen, both veteran sag persons!
At Sag #2, at the Circle K in Marana, Steve Shoemaker, on his first "tour of
duty" at a sag stop and Pat Dow, experienced sag person, handled the crowds like
pros! Sag #3 at the west end of Avra Valley provided well appreciated shade for
2 other volunteers on their "first tour of duty" with GABA. Jeanie Darnall and
John Downey had a great spread and riders were hungry! Sag #4 was located off
Silverbell Road in a small park, and manned by Colin Cordell, also a first-time
volunteer at a sag stop and Linda Kurick, a more experienced GABA volunteer.
Most of these volunteers did double duty: they also handled the registration at
Campbell & River, helped by Peggy & Scott Jacobsen and Nanette Bernier. Since we
were giving free t-shirts to the first 100 pre-registered riders, needless to
say, this was a busy parking lot! But, all the volunteers handled this like
pros!
I also want to thank my two sweeps, Stuart Carter, who came from Willcox to help
us, and Dale Caughlin, a veteran sag & sweep GABA volunteer!
Hoping to see you next year on an even better Silverbell Century!
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Helen Battiste; Jeffrey Berringer; Fritz Brace; Jacquie, Al, Matt, Emily Brailey;
Dave Burnham & Christine Cuerrara; Jannie Cox; Rod & Ellen Creagh; Lonnie Davis;
Phyliss Davis; David Johnson; Marlene Knutson; Ingrid McCarty; Patrick McGowan;
Fred Pepek Sr.; Craig Post; Marlin Price; Chuck & Bonnie Russell; Steve Slat;
Sid Smith; Bill Fenton; John Kelley; Mark Mecikalski; Wayne & Susan Moore; Eric
Post; Arica & Sam Ryersbach; John Thames; Greg Walker Russ & Kay Weed; Barbara
Hill; Kate & Dave Hawse; Ken & Carol Cantor; Bill Faris; Denise Steffen; Carol
Hubbard; Kurt Schlaefer; Marla Husz; Cathy Oger; William Smith; Michelle Klein;
Jean Lindeberg; Philip Curtis; Steve Davenport; Dory Martin; Howard Dutt; Bill
Chambers; Paul Anagnosta; Michael & Wendy Magras;Trip McGrath; Matthias Feurer;
Julie Stringer; Laurenz Gsell; Susanna Laundy & Connie Topliff.
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by Tony Everett, President
At GABA's annual Holiday Pot Luck last December 4th, Awards were given to the
following Ride Leaders in recognition for exceptional contributions: Jack
Spafford for leading numerous day rides with his wife Guenda; Rhonda Smith for
leading the charming Cave Creek Overnight Ride in the Chiricahuas; & Judy Bolt
for leading the most successful GABA Century: the Tumacacori Century!
Also recognized with Special Awards, were the regular Training Rides Leaders,
Rich Corbett, Mike Wood and Craig Gordon who committed to these rides every
Sunday for almost 3 months in the fall!
Other Awards included Pam Cullop for her tremendous work as our Social Director,
including heading the 25th Anniversary Committee; organizing the annual Holiday
Pot Luck; and spearheading the Toys for Tots Ride, as well as providing
refreshments for all the GABA monthly meetings, and all the monthly Board
Meetings!
A special Award was also given to Suzanne Couvrette as Volunteer of the
Millenium for various contributions to GABA over the last 25 years!
Congratulations to all of you and Thank You!
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By Thomas Fisher, Senior Transportation Planner, Pima Association of
Governments
On May 16, 2006, Pima County voters approved a 20-year, multi-modal
transportation plan developed by the newly formed Regional Transportation
Authority (RTA). This plan, funded with a 1/2 cent excise tax, will provide over
$80 million to upgrade and expand bicycle and pedestrian facilities throughout
the Tucson region over the next 20 years.
Projects to improve pedestrian safety and access include new sidewalks,
ADA-accessible wheelchair ramps, signalized crossings, and additional funding
for the Safe Routes to Schools Program. Projects to improve and expand the
regional bikeway network include on-street bike lanes along major roadway
corridors and shared-use pathways along the regional riverpark system. And
almost all roadway projects in the RTA plan will include new sidewalks and bike
lanes as well.
Local jurisdictions were recently asked to identify their priority projects and
submit them to the RTA Board for review and approval. Several projects were
given the green light for funding this fiscal year and next. And more projects
are on the way as local officials continue to line up their priorities and begin
design work. To the right is a list of RTA funded and approved projects for 2007
and 2008.
For more information on the RTA plan, contact Tom Fisher or Rich Corbett at the
Pima Association of Governments (PAG), at 792-1093.
(Reprinted from Walkin' & Rollin', Pima County Department of Transportation.)
Project Description Location Jurisdiction
Signalized crosswalk Euclid/2nd Street Tucson
Signalized crosswalk Euclid/5th Street Tucson
Signalized crosswalk Santa Clara/Drexel Tucson
Signalized crosswalk Cmo. Fennimore/Tanque Verde Pima County
Signalized crosswalk Cmo. La Zorrela/Orange Grove Pima County
Signalized crosswalk Cmo. de Oeste/Tetakusim Pascua Yaqui
Walking paths San Xavier Community Tohono O’Odham
On-street bike lanes Kolb: Valencia to I-10 Pima County
Walking paths Fruchthendler Elementary Pima County
Sidewalks & ramps Citywide Tucson
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By David Burnham, disgruntled bike rider
In order to avoid an ‘open container’ DUI which prohibits having open liquor
bottles in a vehicle, many irresponsible people chuck their empties out the
window. Out the window, means that our famous system of bike lanes soon becomes
filled with crushed glass until the DOT can get around to sweep it up.
Bike riders are forced to maintain a high state of alertness and to ride out
into the travel lanes to avoid flat tires. On a recent cross town ride, I spent
more time looking at the pavement than at the scenery. Cans in the bike lane
aren’t a big problem- they don’t puncture tires and are often picked up by
people trying to make money by gathering aluminum.
It is the beer consumers who prefer to drink from glass (while driving) that
cause me the most problems. Clear glass in the street can be seen well enough,
but the dark brown type is the worst, hard to pick out against the black
pavement. Dark green import glass isn’t much better. I have seen plastic and
aluminum beer bottles in stores recently and I hope this trend catches on.
The best thing is to continue working to educate the public that drinking and
driving is a very serious crime and that littering is bad karma all around.
Bottle deposit legislation can also help. Since our neighbors in California
passed a bottle-deposit law in 1986, there has been a drastic reduction in
littering, and an increase in recycling. Other, more creative solutions to the
problem include...
....glass beer bottles could be colored ‘safety orange’, the same color as road
worker’s vests. Being able to see glass in the roadway would make flat tires
much less frequent, and around the house you’d always be able to find your beer
when you set it down.
...convicted bottle tossers could be assigned community service in the form of
patching tubes. First time offenders could be handed big piles of inner tubes, a
box of patches and a tube scuffer and set to work. A harsh punishment for a
serious crime.
...impose a gigantic tax on glass beer bottles and use the money to fund a fleet
of new street sweepers for local governments. We could have the cleanest streets
in the nation. As a secondary benefit, it would also help to take care of the
‘dead pigeons in the bike lane’ problem.
...chain gangs of convicted bottle tossers with brooms and little dust pans
sweeping up every single crumb of glass from the roads. Do it in the summer,
just to be mean.
All kidding aside, drunk driving is a deadly serious issue. It can send you to
jail, ruin your life, and cause injury and death to others. A DUI conviction
would cost you your license and you’d be forced to ride those same bike lanes
you used to toss your empties into. Never litter, on the road or anywhere else.
Glass in the bike lanes and on the sidewalks causes serious problems and costs
everybody a lot of time and money.
These are the personal opinions of a disgruntled bike rider who spends too much
money on tires, so don’t freak out and complain to the DOT about a made-up beer
tax and chain gangs with dust pans. It’s a joke.
(Reprinted from Walkin' & Rollin', Pima County Department of Transportation.)
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By Matthew Zoll, Pima County Bicycle
and Pedestrian Program Manager
Several bike and pedestrian project designs are underway with construction of
some projects anticipated in the new year. A public open house was recently held
for the Dodge Boulevard Sidewalk, Landscaping and Bike Lane Project. The project
limits for the project are on Dodge between Ft. Lowell Road and River Road.
Construction is expected to begin in late spring 2007.
This project will also connect with the River Bend Roadway Improvements Bond
Project, which also includes new pedestrian and bicycle pathways. The River Road
project is anticipated to be complete in winter 2006-07.
Young pedestrians and bicyclists can also look forward to a number of projects
that will help them in their school journeys. Design efforts will soon begin on
pathways, bike lanes, sidewalks, and shade landscaping for Hohokam Middle
School, Homer Davis Elementary School, Laguna Elementary School, Continental
Middle and Elementary Schools, and Picture Rocks Intermediate and Desert Winds
Elementary Schools.
Also, design is underway on new pedestrian pathways to serve Fruchthendler
Elementary School, located northeast of Tucson. This project should start
construction in summer 2007.
A long-anticipated project is now in design thanks to funds from the Regional
Transportation Authority. The Kolb Road Bike Lanes Project will include bicycle
lanes along 3.5 miles of Kolb Road from just north of Valencia Road to its
terminus south of I-10. The project will serve bicycle commuters to the IBM and
UA research park as well as recreational cyclists based in Voyager RV resort.
The project will also serve to complete a missing link of the El Tour route with
a new bikeway. Construction is planned for spring 2007.
(Reprinted from Walkin' & Rollin', Pima County Department of Transportation.)
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The Pima County - Tucson Safe Routes to School Program has begun providing
pedestrian and bicycle education in the seven pilot schools. Taught by educator
Ignacio Rivera de Rosales, the curriculum consists of two 45-minute classes in
pedestrian safety
for 2nd grade students, and two 45- minute classes in bicycle safety for 4th
grade students.
The classes were a big hit with Butterfield Elementary School students, who
delivered a large packet of ‘thank you’ notes to Ignacio last week. The classes
have already been taught at Brichta and Butterfield Elementary Schools, with the
remainder being scheduled before the end of the year. A bicycle rodeo curriculum
to augment the program is planned beginning next semester.
(Reprinted from Walkin' & Rollin', Pima County Department of Transportation.)
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By Donna Lewandowski,
Pima County Saf eRoutes to Schools Coordinator
We all know the statistics. Study after study has shown that bicycle helmets are
effective in reducing head injuries in bicycle crashes. In fact, a review of
helmet effectiveness studies done by the Harborview Injury Prevention and
Research Center found that overall, helmets decrease the risk of head and brain
injury by 70 to 88 percent and facial injury by 65 percent.
Further, In Pima County, all youth under 18 are required by law to wear a helmet
any time they are riding a bicycle. Why, then, are so many of our children
riding without helmets? The answer we most often hear is that kids think helmets
are “too hot” or “not cool”. It turns out, however, that it is the use of
helmets by parents, friends, and role models that has the most impact on whether
a child wears a helmet when riding.
A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics found
that the children of parents who always wear a helmet were far more likely to
wear helmets than the children of parents who sometimes or never wore helmets.
This modeling effect was also significant for peer helmet use – if your child’s
friends wear helmets, your child is more likely to wear a helmet too.
The effect of peer pressure and role-modeling comes as no surprise to most of us
who have been around children for any amount of time at all. Unfortunately,
these influences are often presented in a bad light – the peer pressure to
drink, or the bad role models provided by some rock performers or movie stars.
We forget that peer pressure and role-modeling can be positive influences in the
lives of our children as well. Every time we hop on our bikes, whether it’s for
a quick ride to the coffee shop or a long training ride, we are modeling adult
behavior, and you can never be sure who is looking.
So, next time you’re tempted to leave the house without your helmet, please
consider donning it anyway. The life you save may not be your own – it just
might be your child’s, your grandchild’s, or even your neighbor’s child, who
thinks you’re the coolest thing he’s seen on a bike.
For more information on bicycle helmet effectiveness, see the Harborview Injury
Prevention and Research Center at www.depts.washington.edu/hiprc/about/topics/
bicycles.html.
For more information on the Pediatrics study, see www.pediatrics.org/cgi/content/full/
108/1/e4.
(Reprinted from Walkin' & Rollin', Pima County Department of Transportation.)
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Report polluting vehicles to the Pima County Department of Environmental Quality
Smoking Vehicle Hotline, 622-5700.
Report road maintenance needs in Pima County to Pima County Street Maintenance,
740-2639.
Report roadway maintenance needs within Tucson to City of Tucson Street
Maintenance, 791-3154.
Report roadway maintenance needs on state highways to Arizona Department of
Transpor-tation, 628-5705.
Report aggressive drivers to the Tucson Police Department’s Road Rage Hotline,
235-RAGE (7243).
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Saturday, March 3, 2007
Sponsored by APRA,
Arizona
Parks & Recreation Association
Options: 100K (62 miles), 50K (31 miles) and a 10-mile Family Fun Ride.
Start & Finish: at Peart Park (at City Hall), 300 W. 4th St., downtown Casa
Grande. Registration from 7 AM. 100K Starts at 8 AM; 50K starts at 9 AM.
Registration Fee: 100K & 50K: $30 before 2/1; $40 after 2/1. Add $5 for ride-day
registration.
Amenities: T-Shirt, sponsor coupons, lunch & prize drawing tickets. CEP Timing
Systems used for accurate timing.
Awards: Medals awarded to the first 100K finishers. Ribbons to all bike riders.
Raffle Grand Prizes: Tickets are $1 each for bicycle donated by Round Trip Bike
Shop, and other prizes - to be raffled after the ride.
Helmets: Required for all riders.
Rider Packet: Pre-registration packets picked up at Best Western, Fri 4-6 PM.
Meal tickets: Lunch tickets are $3.50 for non-riders.
Proceeds: To Az Parks & Rec for statewide association educational activities.
Contact: 800-335-7275 or www.azpra.org.