Mt Hopkins Mountain Bike Hill Climb
Welcome, New and Renewing Members!
The Platinum Challenge – Status Report
Cattle Guards, Railroad Tracks & Drain Grates
Spring 2007 Bike Swap, Again a Great Success!
The Blue Loop Tour - How It Was in The 80s!
Eegees Social at our July Meeting
14th Annual Tour for Tucson’s Children 2007
GABA-Tucson Board of Directors
GABA-Tucson Supporting Members
Earn GABA BucksWhen You Volunteer to Help on a Ride!
GABA-Tucson Has a New Vice President!
Sonoita Bisbee 2007 A Ride to Remember!
(See related articles in this issue for details.)
Ride Date Ride Name Organizers Leaders E-Mail
5/26-28 Luna Lake Bike Tour GABA-Tucson Pam Cullop socialdirector@bikegaba.org
6/3 (Sun) Mt Hopkins Hill Climb GABA-Tucson Tom Ward tward@dakotacom.net
7/2 (Mon) NO GABA MEETING TONIGHT
7/4 (Wed) Tour for Tucson's Children City Parks & Rec lisa.sommer@tucsonaz.gov
7/9 (Mon) GABA MEETING at 7 PM EEGEE'S SOCIAL Pam Cullop socialdirector@bikegaba.org
7/21 & 22 White Mountain Tour PMBC (GABA Phx) Jay Stewart www.sportsfun.com
7/21 (Sat) Taylor House Benefit Ride Absolute Bikes in Flagstaff
www.absolutebikes.net/flag
9/1-3 The Blue Loop GABA-Tucson NEEDED
overnights@bikegaba.org
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Monday, June 4 at 7 PM
Please joins Steve Wilson and Patricia Lebensohn
for stories and pictures of riding their bicycles
in the Fireweed 400 race last summer
along with other cycling, hiking, backpacking,
and sightseeing in south central Alaska.
See the ice, animals, and flowers
of Alaska up close and personal!
Public welcome!
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NO GABA Meeting on Monday, July 2.
See you on Monday, July 9th.
Monday, July 9 at 7 PM
No formal program tonight.
Join us tonight
to socialize with other cyclists!
We will serve Eegee's Frozen Drinks!
Everybody is welcome!
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JUNE 2007
June 3 (Sun): MT HOPKINS HILLCLIMB MTN BIKE RIDE. GABA-Tucson. Ride Leader, Tom
Ward. www.bikegaba.org. Mt Hopkins is a 9,000 foot peak south of Green Valley.
Mix of dirt and paved roads. 12 miles to the top.
JULY 2007
July 4 (Wed): TOUR FOR TUCSON’S CHILDREN City of Tucson Parks & Rec. Contact
Lisa or Jesus at 791-4969, or e-mail Lisa.Sommer@tucsonaz.gov.
July 21 & 22 (DATE CHANGED): DAVE FREUND MEMORIAL WHITE MOUNTAIN TOUR. PMBC.
Show Low to Springerville via Vernon; & Springerville back to Show Low via
Sunrise. www.sportsfun.com
July 21: TAYLOR HOUSE BENEFIT RIDE . 45, 65 and 95-mile course. Organized by
Absolute Bikes. In Flagstaff. www.absolutebikes.net/flag_frset.html
AUGUST 2007
Aug. ?: FLAGSTAFF MOUNTAIN BIKE FESTIVAL. Organized by Absolute Bikes. In
Flagstaff. www. absolutebikes.net/flag_frset.html
Aug. 25 & 26: GRAND CANYON TOUR. Organized by ABC Bike Club. www.azbikeclub.com.
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". Very
scenic ride, but demanding and challenging terrain for experienced riders.
www.bikegaba.org.
Sept. ? : GILA INNER LOOP. Starting in Silver City, New Mexico. Contact
twinsisters@gilanet.com
Sept. 9 (Sun): START OF “EL TOUR” TRAINING RIDES. GABA-Tucson. www.bikegaba.org.
Sept. 15 & 16: PROPOSED FALL SONOITA-BISBEE RIDE. GABA-Tucson. www.bikegaba.org.
Sept. 16 (Sun): 3RD ANNUAL JERRY DOSS MEMORIAL LOOP CHALLENGE. 96-mi Challenge,
54-mi Loop & 10 Fun Ride. For information, contact: Karen Warrick, Prescott
Cycling Club Newsletter, 928-713-9811 or kwarrick@cableone.net.
Sept. 29 & 30 and Oct. 1-6: GREAT ARIZONA BICYCLE ADVENTURE. 27th Annual. 500+
mile camping/ motel Tour across Arizona - from West to East on Route 66 - this
year! www.bikegaba.org.
OCTOBER 2007
Oct. 6 (Sat) SHOW LOW BLUFF 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. Limited to 600 riders.
Oct. 13 (Sat): COCHISE COUNTY CLASSIC XX. Organized by PBAA.
www.perimeterbicycling.com.
Oct. 13 (Sat) : MEMORIAL RIDE FOR SAFETY. In Phoenix. PMBC for CAzB.
www.sportsfun.com or www.cazbike.org.
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.
Leader: Rhonda Smith, (520) 886-2919. onekewlmom@ hotmail.com.
Oct. 20 (Sat) HEART OF ARIZONA CENTURY. Organized by the Bullshifters Club,
Phoenix. Starts in Congress, AZ. For information, contact Jim Pettett at
jimandrobinpetttett@msn.com, or visit their website at www.bullshifters.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. Ride Leaders: Judy & Bob Bolt, 512-0442, 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 north and west of Tucson. www.bikegaba.org.
Nov. 10 (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. 15-18: LEAGUE OF AMERICAN BICYCLISTS 2007 NAT'L BICYCLE RALLY, held in
conjunction with the 25th Anniversary El Tour de Tucson.
Nov. 17 (Sat): EL TOUR DE TUCSON XXV. PBAA. 25th annual. Counterclockwise course
again this year! 4 different options! More than 8,000 riders! Many sag stops
along the course and 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 mi to breakfast at
Zula's in Nogales. Start from Tumacacori Mission & return to enjoy food, craft &
entertainment. For Mission info, call Tumacacori Nat'l 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! Organizer: Pam Cullop, socialdirector@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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Tucson Az Mtn Standard Time
JUNE
RISE SET
A.M. P.M.
1: 5:18 7:25
7: 5:17 7:28
14: 5:17 7:31
21: 5:18 7:33
28: 5:20 7:34
JULY
RISE SET
A.M. P.M.
1: 5:21 7:34
7: 5:23 7:34
14: 5:27 7:32
21: 5:31 7:29
28: 5:36 7:24
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July 21 & 22, 2007
MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
DATE CHANGED TO JULY 21 & 22
Sponsored by Phoenix Metro Bicycle Club
AN APPROVED HELMET IS REQUIRED FOR THIS RIDE
The White Mountain Tour is a 2-day fully supported tour, including sag support
and emergency mechanical support, plenty of good snacks and luggage delivery to
your hotel/campsite. For more than 20 years, this tour has been attracting
partic-ipants from out of state, as well as in-state riders, and it has become a
favorite for many. Temperatures from the low 60's to the mid 80's, great support
for the riders and Saturday night's dinner make this ride one you will want to
do again and again!!
DINNER: Saturday night's dinner and a raffle ticket are included in the entry
fee.
TOUR FEE: $50 for GABA/ABC club members. $55 for non-members.
A $10. late fee applies after June 30th.
MAIL REGISTRATION FORM AND FEES TO:
PHOENIX METRO BICYCLE CLUB, P. O. BOX 26788, TEMPE, AZ 85285-6788.
MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: Phoenix Metro Bicycle Club
SATURDAY NIGHT DINNER is included in your entry fee, served from 5 to 7 PM.
Non-riders and family members can purchase dinner for $17/person. Menu includes
Steak, BBQ chicken, beans, pasta salad, garden salad, watermelon, biscuits,
cobbler and ice cream. Umm, Umm, better than home! After dinner, there will be
an Amateur Talent Contest and Raffle with prizes for those willing to showcase
their talents; those not so bold will have a chance to win raffle prizes. Dinner
will be at the traditional location at the Round Valley High School in
Springerville.
FREE CAMPING ON SATURDAY NIGHT: At Round Valley Middle School in Eagar,
(including showers & bathroom). For those wanting the more comfortable confines
of a motel room, make your reservations at one those listed below: we will
deliver luggage there by 2 PM on Saturday.
LUGGAGE PICK UP: Starting at 8 AM on Sunday for the return trip.
START & FINISH: At Hon-Dah, AZ Hwys 73 & 260, south of Pinetop.
REGISTRATION: Saturday , from 7 AM to 8:30 AM. No mass start.
DAY ONE: Ride North on Highway 260 through Pinetop/Lakeside to Show Low. In Show
Low turn East onto Highway 60 for about 34 scenic miles to the sag stop at
Midway Station convenience store in Vernon. (Stop in and say Hi to Francis & the
gang, maybe buy a cold soda or ice cream).
If you are a casual rider, you might wish to get an early start to avoid missing
the SAG stop, which will close at 11:30 AM. From there, after one major climb,
it's all down to Springerville/Eagar for a total of 63 miles on Day One.
!!!New This Year!!! For those hardy enough, we are planning a 40-mile Optional
Loop. Yes, that's right, you will have the option of either doing a Full
Century, or the traditional Metric Century on Day One.
DAY TWO: start 8 AM. The return SAG stop will be set up at 8:30 AM. near the
Sunrise Ski Resort. From there, it's mostly down hill back to the start for the
days total of about 38 miles for the day.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: For more information, contact Jay Stewart, Ride
Organizer, afternoons and evenings, at 480-250-1613. This truly is a great ride,
one you shouldn't miss!
FRIDAY NIGHT LODGING:
in Pinetop-Lakeside:
* Bear's Paw Motel - 928-368-5231 * Best Western - 928-367-6667
* Blue Ridge Motel - 928-367-0758 * Bonanza Motel - 928-367-4440
* Comfort Inn - 928-368-6600 * Cozy Pines Cabins- 928-367-4558
* Double B Lodge - 928-367-2747 * Forest House - 928-368-6628
* Hilltop House Motel - 928-367-4451 * Mountain Hacienda-928-367-4146
* Murphy's Cabins - 928-367-5555 * Pinetop Lodge - 928-367-3510
* Super 8 - 928-367-3161 * Timber Lodge 928-367-4463
* Woodland Inn & Suites- 928-367-3636
in Show Low (about 10 miles from start):
* Apache Pines Motel - 928-532-4328 * Best Western - 928-537-5773
* Day's Inn - 928-537-4356 * Downtown 9 Motel-928-537-4334
* Holiday Inn - 928-537-5115 * KC Travel Lodge - 928-537-4433
* Kiva Motel - 928-537-4542 * Motel 6 - 928-537-7694
* Snowy River Motel - 928-537-2926
SATURDAY NIGHT LODGING:
in Springerville/Eager: Free camping in the town of Eager, including restroom &
shower facilities at Round Valley Middle School. Sleep in the gym, or pitch your
tent on the nicest lawn in town.
* Reeds Lodge - 928-333-4323 (www.k5reeds.com/)
* El Jo Motor Inn - 928-333-4314 * Super 8 Motel - 928-333-2655
* Corral Motel - 928-333-2264 * Paisley Corner B&B - 928-333-4665
* Rode Inn - 928-333-4365 * Whiting Bros Motor Inn - 928-333-5870
* Best Western - 928-333-2540 * 26 Bed & Breakfast - 928-333-2102
* Spanish Trails B&B - 928-333-4034
* White Mountain Escape B&B -928-333-2000 (www.whitemountainescape.com)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: For more information, contact Jay Stewart, Ride
Organizer, afternoons and evenings, at 480-250-1613.
WHITE MOUNTAIN TOUR
Pre-Registration Form
July 21 & 22, 2007
ONE FORM PER RIDER. Photocopies accepted.
Please fill out all the blanks.
Ride Leader: Jay Stewart, 480-250-1613 www.sportsfun.com/gaba
Vegetarian: (circle) Yes No
I am currently a GABA member: (circle) Yes No
NAME:__________________________________
ADDRESS:_______________________________
CITY:___________________________________
STATE_______ ZIP_____________________
PHONE: ( )________________________
E-MAIL _________________________________
FEE: make check payable to and mail to:
Phoenix Metro Bicycle Club
PO Box 26788, Tempe AZ 85285-6788
GABA/ABC Member: $50 _____
Non-Member: $55 _____
Late fee after 6/30/07 $10 _____
Non-Rider dinner (adult) $17 _____
TOTAL MONEY SENT: $________
Ride fee includes camping & Sat. dinner.
CPSC-approved helmets are mandatory.
STAPLE your SIGNED WAIVER to each form.
Sunday, June 3, 2007
This ride is not for the faint of heart! It will require all the strength that
your legs have, and then some!
Imagine climbing 5,000 feet on a fairly steep dirt road for the first 7 miles,
then continuing on a steeper paved road for the last 5 miles to the summit where
the grade gets very steep for the last 1/4 mile! Come enjoy this ride and find
out for yourself if it really is that hard!
Meet at 6 AM at Whipple Visitor Center. Directions: from Tucson, drive south on
I-19 past Green Valley. Exit at Canoa Rd. and continue south on the EAST
frontage road to Elephant Head Rd. Turn LEFT here and continue for a mile or so
until you see Hopkins Rd. Turn RIGHT on Hopkins Rd. and continue up this road
about 6 miles until you reach Whipple Visitor Center.
Park your car here and drag your mountain bike out: you are about to find out
what mountain biking is all about! Bring plenty of WATER and energy food! Don't
forget to remember the rewards of fantastic 360 degree views at the top, as you
sweat and grind mile after mile! And, don't go too fast downhill: watch for the
occasional car coming up.
Ride leader: Tom Ward, tward@dakotacom.net or (520) 625-3649.
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for NEW 2007 Jersey!
Club Jerseys available: S, M, L, XL, XXL.
Check louisgarneau.com for proper sizing
Jersey Styles: NEW 2007 DESIGN!
Sleeveless, Men's & Women’s: $50.00
W/Sleeves, Men's & Women's: $55.00
Postage & tracking per ORDER $ 7.50
M/W Size How Many Price
Jersey - Sleeveless ____ ___ ____ _____
Jersey - W/Sleeves ____ ____ ____ _____
Add for postage & handling: _____
Total enclosed (check/money order ONLY) $ _______
Make checks payable to GABA-Tucson &
Mail to P.O. Box 43273, Tucson AZ 85733
NAME: (print)___________________________________________
ADDRESS: _______________________________________
CITY: __________________ STATE:____ ZIP: __________
PHONE: _________________________________________
E-MAIL:_________________________________________
Jerseys can also be purchased at GABA meetings on the 1st Monday of the month,
OR contact Sandi Rousseau,
(520) 577-1187 or at secretary@bikegaba.org.
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New Members:
Susanna Valenzuela; Stephen Pompea; Ann Marie Lee; Stuat Tsavier; Lois Wardell;
David & Pamela Brunk; Michael Keith; Karen Whitten; Debra Gens; Larry & Sandra
Levine; Larry Dunne; Bob & Ann Czaja; Waldo Smeby; Rebecca Hunt; Lauve Metcalfe;
Robert Shea; Tim Overbey; Edward Hiceman; Matt Braverman; Laura Ostasiewski;
Linda Post; Donna Stoner; Bruce Smith; Greg Williams; Mike Ellerson; Robert &
Lynnae Fritz; Tom Fruciano; Mindy Slanaker; Michael Huffaker.
Renewing Members:
John & Barbara Harrison; Paul Durlam; Chuck Stelley; Michael & Laurie Coppola;
Michael Zaffke; Kurt Wineinger; Richard Wahl; Candace Shelton; Brian Beck;
Eileen Haney and Alfred & Ian McEwen.
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by Rudy and Kay Van Renterghem
The 17th annual South West Tandem Rally (SWTR) named “The Best Little Tandem
Rally in Texas” took place in La Grange the weekend of April 27-29, 2007.
Texas being the largest of the lower 48 states gets to draw on a huge population
of tandem riders. However, folks from 12 other states managed to fly/drive to
the small town (population 4,200) for this rally.
GABA/Tucson was well represented by Mike and Susan Burdick on their Co-Motion
Supremo and the two of us on our c/f Zona tandem.
La Grange is nestled on the Colorado River at the junction of highways 71/77 and
sort of sandwiched between the metro areas of Houston/San Antonio/Dallas-Ft.
Worth and the capitol of Austin, at the edge of the scenic Texas Hill Country.
It is a thriving rural community that was settled in the mid-1800s by a mixture
of Czech/Moravian/German/Swiss immigrants that brought Euro customs to blend
with the cowboys and Mexican folk already living in that part of the Wild West.
Some traditions endured and to this day, their influence is clearly noticeable
in the Fayette County town and street names as well as the many beautifully
decorated churches . . . and, their food! Sure, Texas is renowned for some of
the best Bar-B-Q anywhere, but how about those Kolaches? Kolaches!? Never heard
of them? They’re similar, but different, from a sweet roll/cake type delicacy
with various fruit or even cheese topping . . . Yummmm! Much tastier than a
powerbar!
The Houston Area Tandem Society hosted the rally and did an outstanding job! An
early Friday afternoon check-in at the Fayette County Fairgrounds got us started
with a big registration packet containing local information, ride maps cue
sheets, glue-less patch kits, water bottles, name tags, a neat SWTR polo shirt
for each participant and a host of other freebies. There was locked storage at
the Fairgrounds for our steeds, so there was no need to lug tandems from motel
to the start line. Nice!
All group meals at the Fayette Fairground Pavillion were also included, for a
team entry fee of only $200: such a deal! The rally organizers also arranged for
special tandem group rates at three local motels - no big city convention rate$
here! Friday’s routes were ‘on your own’, so we could leisurely explore some of
the area. Ride choices were the 21-mile Painted Church ride or the 32-mile Swiss
Alps tandem toot.
While not like the high and steep Alps in Switzerland, the steady up-and-down
hills gave the legs a good workout. A refreshing mid-ride ice cream stop made
the effort worthwhile! At the early evening social hour we got to mix, meet and
greet fellow attendees, followed by a bountiful, and fully catered, pasta
feed-fest with salad bar and dessert.
Early Saturday morning, late arrivals were able to register and were just in
time for a huge Texas-style breakfast with all the fixins. Load up on chow to
get in the miles - we eat to ride and ride to eat! The multi-colored gaggle of
tandemistas was ready for the mass start take off at 8:30. Ride choices were 24,
45, 61, 74 or 84 miles . . . bound to be a distance suitable to any team’s
ability.
The drought stricken area had some early spring rains and it showed. The meadows
were a-bloom in Bluebonnets, red Indian Paintbrush, Black-eyed Susans and other
flora, including a couple prickly pear cactus with their bright yellow blossoms.
Of course, those bloomin’ meadows were inhabited by lots of livestock:
Longhorns. Brahmas, Brahgus (hybrid Brahma/Angus cattle) sheep, goats and we
even spotted a couple llamas.
Texans have a tradition of displaying their state flag/colors . . . naturally
many of the cyclists had on a Tex-flag-themed jerseys, and the Lone Star was
spotted on flagpoles, cars/pickups, mailboxes and even the complete roof of one
farmhouse! For folks who did not participate in the longer rides, there were
various afternoon bicycle skill games and seminars at the Fairgrounds.
At 6 P.M. there was another well-attended BYOB social hour, with the HATS
providing cups, ice, sodas and plentiful tasty pickings. Tandem-related
discussions/stories filled the hour before the big multi-choice TX-style Bar-B-Q
with more tandem talk and announcing winners of the multitude of door prizes
donated by the rally sponsors. Most tandem duos went home with something extra!
A group of Oklahoma tandemers put on a nice skit/song presentation to make us
all aware that the 2008 SWTR will be held in Tulsa on April 25-27; check their
site: tulsabicycleclub.com for details. They convinced all that Oklahoma was OK
for 2008!
Sunday’s rides wrapped up the rally with choice of distances of 12, 23, 31 or 39
miles. It was a scattered mass start for teams that wanted to get in a quick
tandem toot before heading back home. The morning ride brought a bit of fog,
with visibility down to a quarter mile, but that mist soon burned off. Spotted
some locals picking wild berries by the roadside and one grizzled gent hollered:
“Where y’all from . . . Houston?” We replied “Arizona!” His astonished reply was
“Oh, my!”
Texas humor extends to bumper stickers, including this unique one on a
mega-sized pickup truck: “Silly boys! Pickups are for girls!!!”
Spotted a roadkill casualty that morning on the way back to the Fairgrounds.
Someone hollered ‘dillo down!’ and sure enough, had to avoid an armadillo that
did not survive its nocturnal wanderings and had an unfortunate encounter.
Arriving back at the Fairgrounds the HATS provided us with a nice box lunch to
eat right there or to consume on the drive home, another nice touch!
The assortment of tandems ridden at the rally was quite varied. From low tech to
high tech, from bents to a triplet to a quad with trailer in tow! Steel and
aluminum dominated with a couple ti and a few full-carbon steeds added into the
mix. Lots of eye-candy to ogle for us tandem enthusiasts!
This was the third SWTR we’ve participated in. Our two previous tandem sojourns
into Texas were in 1994 when we experienced a tornado at Brenham the very first
day of that rally, the other in Waco where we had some inclement weather. Being
optimists, we figured our third TX-rally would be a charm . . . and it certainly
was!
Reports of a tornado in the area the day before the rally plus tornado warnings
and heavy rains just after the rally. However, SWTR XVII experienced great
riding conditions: no rain, little wind, lots of clouds and some sunshine with
temps very tolerable compared to being in the 90s already back home in Tucson.
”The Best Little Tandem Rally in Texas” certainly lived up to its slogan! We
doff our helmets to all the HATS for a splendid tandem weekend!
Pedal on TWOgether!
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By Richard E. Corbett
Platinum Challenge Steering Committee Chair
The Platinum Challenge Steering Committee is taking on official status, as PAG’s
Regional Council, by the time you read this, should have authorized the creation
of a PAG Platinum Challenge Task Force to assist in actions that will lead to
the submission of the Bicycle Friendly Community (BFC) application in March
2008.
The coordinated effort by dedicated cycling leaders in 2005-2006 earned our
region the first ever regional award, and it was gold!! We still need to address
some specific ‘weaknesses’ relative to cycling. The list below iterates the Five
Es that make up the criteria for Bicycle Friendly Community (BFC) ratings, and
some of the things we are doing to be even better. Fortunately, we got some
specific feedback from the League of American Bicyclists after submitting our
application in March 2006. Here is a quick update on some of the major steps we
are taking in each of the 5 Es so far, for our March 2008 application.
Education: We continue to ask the question: Do you know how to drive your
Bicycle? And also, do you know how to drive your car around cyclists? Getting
both cyclists and motorists to behave predictably and responsibly is still very
much a key to our Bicycle Friendly Community (BFC) rating. No one would think of
operating a motorcycle, snow skiing, or sky diving without specific, qualified
instruction. Yet it is common practice for people to bicycle with little or no
training/instruction. This has changed, as Pima County has been offering bicycle
drivers' training steadily since last year. We believe this is an important part
of improving the Tucson areas’ Bicycle Friendly Community rating.
Engineering: Looking at the physical facilities side of the region's efforts to
further improve our BFC rating, we have much to be proud, especially in the last
year. The City of Tucson has added about 35 miles of bike lanes/routes/paved
shoulders, Pima County about 5 miles, the Arizona Department of Transportation
added about 5 miles, the Town of Oro Valley added about 3 miles, the Town of
Marana added about 10 miles, the Town of Sahuarita added about 2 miles, and the
City of South Tucson added a mile. This means we added about 61 miles of bike
lanes/routes/paved shoulders throughout the region!
TDOT’s Roadway Development Policies provide guidance for the installation of a
Bike Route with a Striped Shoulder (effectively a Bike Lane) on existing City of
Tucson arterial or collector streets. Factors addressed include minimum lane
widths for both travel and turn lanes.
Enforcement: Local law enforcement officers continue to be even more aware than
ever of the concerns of cyclists in our community. Both the Tucson Police
Department and the Pima County Sheriff’s Office have police representatives who
attend the Tucson-Pima County Bicycle Advisory Committee meetings and are the
liaisons between the community and the respective police departments
The Tucson Police Department’s has had a police on bikes program for almost 17
years. Cycling Instructor Richard Corbett was the original trainer for the
Tucson Police Department’s police on bikes program, and civilian Instructors
have continued to have influence on successive classes of bike-mounted police.
Regular rotation of bicycle-mounted police officers has also helped increase the
awareness of cycling issues in this community.
Encouragement: Bike Month here is promoted earlier than the official national
date (May) due to Tucson’s higher temperature weather (May is just too Hot!!).
Bike month is celebrated and promoted here with an event called the Clean Air
Fair. GABA, the Tucson-Pima County Bicycle Advisory Committee, and the Sonoran
Desert Mountain Bicyclists all play a role in this event. Local governments
combine their resources and funds and use this opportunity to promote bicycling,
as well as other alternative modes of transportation.
Part of the promotional brochure includes a pledge card that offers the
participant the opportunity to pledge their use of alternative modes of
transportation over a set period of time. The card is then mailed in to enter
into a drawing for several high profile prizes. On top of the 3,000 attendees at
our events, there were several thousand entries pledging use of alternative
modes of transportation.
Evaluation & Planning: An important aspect of this E is to have a system in
place that allows bicyclists to submit ideas and concerns to public officials.
The Tucson Department of Transportation (TDOT) has a Bicycle/Pedestrian Spot
Improvement Request Program. Comments can be mailed to TDOT on a yellow,
self-addressed request form that is available at all bike shops, libraries, Ward
offices and bike-related businesses. An electronic form is also available on
line. Upon receipt of the comments, TDOT is committed to addressing the problem
within 48 hours.
Oro Valley has a form on the Town’s website for citizens to submit concerns and
road issues to Town staff. Citizens are also encouraged to contact the Town’s
Bicycle Coordinator or engineering staff directly to convey concerns. The other
PAG Jurisdic-tions also offer convenient ways for cyclists to report ideas or
concerns, and the phone numbers for road maintenance needs are published on the
Regional Bike Map.
Another aspect is to have a comprehensive bicycle plan. The Pima Association of
Governments developed the first regional bicycling plan in 1974. Updates were
made to the Plan in 1977, 1981, 1993 and 2000 (current adopted Plan). A major
update to the PAG Regional Plan for Bicycling is scheduled to be completed later
this year.
Funding for bicycle and pedestrian facilities is included in the Tucson, Pima,
Oro Valley, Marana, Sahuarita and South Tucson budgets. The existing regional
bikeway and shared-use path system currently contains ~ 600 miles of on-street
bikeways and ~55 miles of urban and suburban paths. This is a significant
advance over the 250 miles that existed in 1993, when the previous Regional Plan
for Bicycling was prepared. The Plan calls for developing 400 more miles of
bikeways in the region by 2010.
Summary
Another successful effort with the Platinum Challenge (maintaining or upgrading
our BFC rating) will bring a variety of benefits to our community and the people
who make it up. The benefits will not only be for cycling, but also the entire
community. It has been estimated that the El Tour de Tucson brings in an event
weekend financial impact of $10.0 million to $11.2 million, and a year round
impact of $12.4 million to $25.2 million.
We believe that bicycling is not only good for our local economy, but also for
the health of our citizens, and our air quality. Find ways that you can support
and maintain the Platinum Challenge!! For more information, or to volunteer to
help, contact me, Richard Corbett, Platinum Task Force Chair, kc7ovm@dakotacom.net,
or Vice-Chair Gabe Thum, Gthum@pagnet.org.
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September 1 ,2 & 3, 2007
In eastern Arizona and western New Mexico, the Blue River flows. Over 20 years
age, a group of GABA cyclists devised a 3 day tour around the Blue River, and
“The Blue Loop Bike Tour” was born. It has become one of the best rides
sponsored by GABA-Tucson! Riders can escape the heavy traffic and pressure of
the big city, and relax in the remote Arizona and New Mexico's scenic mountain
countryside. There is a total elevation gain of 16,977 feet over 3 days and 215
beautiful miles.
THERE IS NO RIDE LEADER AT THIS TIME.
SOMEONE MUST VOLUNTEER NOW
IN ORDER FOR THIS RIDE TO HAPPEN.
PRELIMINARY RESERVATIONS HAVE BEEN MADE
AND GABA SUPPORT IS AVAILABLE
TO WHOMEVER LEADS THE RIDE.
IF WE DON’T HEAR FROM ANYONE BY JUNE 15,
THE RIDE WILL HAVE TO BE CANCELLED.
CONTACT JUDY BOLT AT 512-0442 OR OVERNIGHTS@BIKEGABA.ORG
This year's ride will be the traditional route that you have grown to know and
love: Clifton to Glenwood, to Alpine, and back to Clifton 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 "Cross State
Tour” held this coming October, this is the one you want! Be ready for all kinds
of weather: It may rain at some point, and the temperature is likely to drop
considerably! Very cool mornings in the mountains will alternate with very hot
afternoons.
Registration, Friday, August 31st.
Check-in for pre-registered riders, and registration for Day-of-Event
riders, will be held in Clifton, from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM on Friday night. To
find us, look for a yellow GABA sign pointing the way.
1st Day, Saturday, September 1st:
Clifton to Glenwood, NM - 66 miles with 4800 ft. of elevation gain.
Climb out of the Gila River Valley heading northeast on Hwy 78 through Mule
Creek following the San Francisco River Valley into Glenwood.
2nd Day, Sunday, September 2nd:
Glenwood to Alpine, AZ - 58 miles with 5346 ft. of elevation gain.
Enjoy a gradual climb through pine forests in New Mexico as you negotiate Saliz
Pass and Luna Summit to the small town of Alpine at 8000 feet of elevation.
3rd Day, Monday, September 3rd:
Alpine to Clifton - 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, and
another long 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 Clifton.
Blue Loop Motel List:
Friday Night in Clifton:
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)
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By Richard E Corbett,
Master Cycling Instructor & Certified Coach
Things in the roads, like cattle guards, railroad tracks, and drain grates
continue to be a problem for some cyclists, primarily because of not taking a
little extra care approaching them and crossing them.
Last year, ADOT implemented a Program to fasten cattle guard grates together to
keep them from having gaps between the grates. Substantial progress has been
made and cattle guards no longer neede were removed.
Cyclists still need to be careful, keep a good watch, and cross cattle guards,
railroad tracks and drain grates with care.
1. ALWAYS cross cattle guard, railroad tracks, and drain grates STRAIGHT, NOT AT
AN ANGLE!
2. Hold your handlebar firmly and coast if crossing a cattleguard, railroad
track or drainage grate that is WET. Consider dismounting and walking across if
in doubt as to your ability to cross safely.
3. DO NOT SLOW DOWN too much! Slow speed can cause you to lose control if your
front tire slips on the metal rail(s).
4. RISE OFF THE SADDLE as you cross a cattleguard, railroad track or drainage
grate, using your knees and elbows as shock absorbers.
5. Be alert as you APPROACH cattleguards, railroad tracks or drainage grates, in
case there is a structural condition that could cause you to have a problem,
such as (1) GAPS between the grates or tracks PARALLEL to your direction of
travel;
(2) GAPS between the grates or tracks and the pavement, PERPENDICULAR (at a
right angle) to your direction of travel, on both the near and far sides; and
(3) differences in the HEIGHTS of adjacent grates, or tracks parallel to your
direction of travel. AVOID these if they are present!
GROUP CONSIDERATIONS: Many cattleguard, railroad track or drainage grate
problems occur when cyclists are riding in a group.
1. The lead cyclist in a group must call out cattleguard, railroad track or
drainage grate well in advance to give enough time for everyone to see,
evaluate, decide, and steer an individually chosen path across the cattle guard.
2. ALWAYS CHOOSE YOUR OWN PATH over a cattleguard, railroad track or drainage
grate. When riding in a group, move apart enough so everyone has his/her own
clear view of the cattleguard, railroad track or drainage grate, in plenty of
time to pick a different path. Don't rely on others to pick your path; they need
to concentrate on their own path.
Everyone, for their own safety, alone or in a group, must see, evaluate, decide,
and steer their own path across cattle guards, railroad tracks or drainage
grates.
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On a clear, delightfully cool Saturday morning, 29 cyclists were pushed forward
with a favorable “tail wind” on Hwy 60 from Globe cycling toward Show Low.
Cyclists wearing Lycra and colorful jerseys dotted the highway on road bikes for
the most part, with one rider aboard a recumbent. Cyclists from Tucson,
Sahuarita, Gilbert, Phoenix, Peoria, Fountain Hills, Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa,
Chandler, and even as far away as California & Colorado joined GABA for this
challenging ride.
Strong blustery winds necessitated competent bicycle handling down Salt River
Canyon. Because of the switchbacks, a tail wind would push one up to excessive
speed, but after a hairpin turn, the wind was on the nose to drop speeds by
half! As cyclists arrived in Show Low, the temperature continued to drop and
some were greeted with a light dusting of snow. Campers will attest to the ±30°
temperatures at Fool Hollow Lake campground.
At the zenith of the climb out of Globe, cyclists were greeted by Debra Harms &
Marie Klenke at SAG 1. A splendid array of fresh fruit, juice, breakfast bars &
energy bars along with PB & J was provided with smiles. Those who consumed
strawberries were favorably impressed with the taste!
Bob & Judy Bolt were stationed at the end of the climb out of Salt River Canyon.
At this lunch stop cyclists could make sandwiches, eat fresh fruit, cookies and
chips, drink sodas, etc. Many chose to take full advantage of the array of food
and have a much deserved rest.
The last SAG was manned by a fantastic trio, Scott Audilet & his daughters,
Michel & Nicole. Once again riders took nourishment for the final 20-mile climb
into Show Low.
On the next day, the route was retraced and once again riders experienced
fabulous weather and another great tail wind, refueling at 3 Sags.
Luggage was transported & delivered by Jack & Guenda Spafford. This dynamic duo
made certain that all bags were delivered to the appropriate place and gave
campers some special treats.
James Harms & Bob Klenke did a magnificent job as “Sweep”, making sure that all
riders were safely at destination by day’s end. Jim also transported campers
into Show Low for dinner with the volunteer group.
In addition to fine weather both days, the ride was safely accomplished by all.
Two days free from any mishaps made this a particularly good ride.
Congratulations to all who successfully completed this difficult ride.
Many riders exclaimed at how well organized the ride was, which is attributable
to the volunteer group. A big “thank you” to all volunteers who were efficient
and friendly in supporting the annual Salt River Canyon ride. GABA rides could
not occur without their help and dedication.
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by Greg Yares, Event Organizer
Another GABA bike swap under our belt! Great thanks to all of our volunteers,
Bill Borland Sandi & Rich Rousseau, Roy Schoonover, Ram & Chris Salcedo, Steve
Shoemaker, Judy Bolt and Tony Everett. and the FAMA -Fourth Avenue Merchants
Assoc., Lemonade guy, Radio Station???, Kinne the DJ who played good music at
Winsett park, and all of the bike nuts who keep this the best non-ride bike
event in the civilized world, or at least in central Tucson twice a year!
Please give us your feedback on the First time Ever
GABA Bike Swap to be held on a SUNDAY!!!
I think the attendance was a bit light, but that also allowed for a calmer day
without the "vendor space frenzy" that we usually have. It seems that the
calendar of outdoor events is getting more and more like an overbooked game of
drunken twister.
This time, we moved our swap to Sunday in deference to the PBAA Tour de Phoenix,
which was held on Sat. the 31st. Along with the folks who spend their Sundays in
prayer or reading the paper, The San Diego bike swap was on the same day as ours
this year, so I'm sure that we lost some of our California regulars. It seems
there is always at least one race and probably three going somewhere nearby.
The Clean Air Fair was held at Reid park on the same day as well. It started at
noon, so unlikely to be too much conflict there. With all that other stuff in
the mix, I think it was a good swap. Mark your calendar: we'll hold our next one
on Saturday, November 10.
I think it'll be back to "vendor space frenzy" and I hope that more of you will
volunteer to help us guide our gentle guests to the light once again. See you
then!!! And don't forget the feedback. Thanks, Greg 323-9020 or swapmeet@bikegaba.org.
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By Peggy Jacobsen
Ever wonder how the "Blue Loop" Tour came to be? Well, as Suzanne Couvrette
explains, she and Gene Chapman sat down with an Arizona state map looking for a
good route for a 3 day ride. Now you would have to know Gene to realize that
"good" means, remote, lightly traveled and somewhat challenging!
As luck would have it, Gene had the opportunity to drive what is now the Blue
Loop route when he took four young women, one of whom is writing this, on a
weekend tour based in Alpine, AZ. That weekend should have prepared me for what
Gene would come up with for his next idea of a fun trip. After all, we did
almost run out of gas halfway up the Coronado Trail and when we stopped at the
ADOT Maintenance yard we were given enough gas to get us back to Morenci, or we
were told we could take the chance that Hannagan Meadows would have gas. Of
course Gene chose to go on to Hannagan Meadows!
Gene was further encouraged to do this tour when he encountered a self-contained
cyclist riding up the Coronado Trail! This cyclist would join GABA on one of the
first Blue Loop tours and agree that it is much easier, and wiser, to ride down
the Coronado Trail than it is to go up it!
While I wasn't a participant of the inaugural Blue Loop tour, I do remember some
of the stories. The most significant story being how a rider was hit by a dead
dog! Apparently the dog was struck by a pick-up which then sent it careening
into the cyclist. Fortunately the cyclist wasn't hurt and after some minor
repairs to his bike, he was back on the road.
Well after hearing stories like that, we decided we had to do this ride. The
next year we were ready, or so we thought. We knew enough to be prepared for
rain, it is still monsoon season after all, but we didn't know we would need to
be prepared for snow! While we were enjoying dinner at a nice warm restaurant in
Alpine, we were informed by other diners that they had just come from Hannagan
Meadows where there were 2 to 3 inches of snow on the ground! We promptly went
across the street to the grocery/hardware store and purchased the last few pairs
of gardening gloves! These gloves had been sitting in that store so long that
the fabric was faded! Guess they don't have much call for gardening gloves in
Alpine!
Like the Luna Lake ride, when Gene started the Blue Loop we understood that we
needed to be self-sufficient. That meant that we would take water where ever we
could find it, and as Gene so nicely pointed out, if we didn't stop for water
when it was available the buzzards flying over head would be ready to have us
for dinner! On the last day from Alpine back to Morenci there are two places to
stop for water, Hannagan Meadows and the ADOT Maintenance yard, and yes, we
stopped at both.
These days we don't have to worry about where to find water and what we'll have
for snacks, but that doesn't make the ride any less challenging. It's still as
beautiful and lightly traveled as when Gene first decided we needed to do this
ride. Oh, and new stories continue to be told, like the arrow story, haven't
heard that one? Do the ride and maybe Bill will tell you that story as you climb
to Hannagan Meadows.
Thanks again Gene.
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Monday, July 9, 2007, at 7 PM
By Pam Cullop, Social Director
“Roll Out Those Lazy Hazy Crazy Days of Summer”, and that is how we will spend
our evening together, on Monday, July 9th.
Join us for the 3rd Annual Eegee Social Night, In Lieu of the Regular Monthly
Meeting.
On this night with no regular speaker or pro-gram planned, we want you to come
on over and join those of us still in town enduring the 100 + degree
temperatures just like you!
Can you think of a better way to beat the heat than just ‘lazing’ around, whilst
sipping on the icy-concoction called an “Eegee's”, and shootin’ the breeze with
a fellow cyclist? You got it…no speaker, no slideshows, and no one to tell you
to stop visiting so we can “get the program underway”!
July 9th is the 2nd Monday of the month. The gathering time is the same – 7 PM.
The location never changes – 5199 E Farness Rd.
Ask anyone who was at this meeting last summer: they'll tell you we had a blast!
“You’ll Wish That Summer Could Always Be Here”!
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Wednesday, July 4th
The Tour for Tucson’s Children was created in response to the passage of the
1994 Bicycle Helmet Ordinance. At the time, we were concerned with the
inevitable need there would be to provide helmets for low-income youth.
The Tucson Parks & Rec Department and Tucson Fire Department were already
actively involved in a bicycle safety program. As a result of both departments’
commitment to Childhood Injury Prevention Programs, the staff from both these
departments became the event organizers and have continued to manage the Tour
since its inception. GABA has been a strong and active supporter of the event.
The start/finish line for all events is on the East Side of the Tucson
Convention Center. This is also where the venue is located. On site
registration, packet pick up and refreshments are all located in the venue.
The 6½ & 10-mile rides take you through downtown and along the Santa Cruz River
path. The 27-mile ride takes you west along Mission, Irvington, Valencia before
returning downtown. Participation medals are handed out to all event
participants.
27-mile challenge 6:00 AM start
3-mile Run/Walk 6:05 AM start
10-mile Family Ride 6:45 AM start
6½-mile Family Ride 6:45 AM start
½-mile Kid's Ride (6 and under) and activities 7:30 AM start
Adults 16+: $15 (on or before 6/20, $20 after 6/20)
Youth Under 15: $10 (on or before 6/20, $15 after 6/20)
Kids event is free and includes ½-mile kids ride, Jumping Castle, Obstacle
Course, Arts & Crafts Project, Face Painting and Carnival Games.
Packet pick up is June 30th: 9 AM-4 PM @ 900 S. Randolph Way and at the venue on
7/4, starting at 5 AM. Proceeds benefit Tour for Tucson's Children Program Fund.
Registration forms are available at www.tucsonaz.gov and at www.active.com. For
more information, call Marci or Alfonso at 791-4969, alfonso.romero@tucsonaz.gov
or marci.gregg@tucsonaz.gov.
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P. O. Box 43273 Tucson, AZ 85733
President: Tony Everett 975-7801 PRESIDENT@BIKEGABA.ORG
Vice President: Donna Lewandowski 740-6941
VICE-PRESIDENT@BIKEGABA.ORG
Treasurer: Peggy Jacobsen 791-3049
TREASURER@BIKEGABA.ORG
Secretary: Sandi Rousseau 577-1187
SECRETARY@BIKEGABA.ORG
Membership: Steve Graeber 762-1363
MEMBERSHIP@BIKEGABA.ORG
Update Editor: Suzanne Couvrette 891-4661
UPDATE-EDITOR@BIKEGABA.ORG
Education: Matt Zoll 321-4471
EDUCATION@BIKEGABA.ORG
Publicity: Bob Klenke 825-2601 PUBLICITY@BIKEGABA.ORG
Day Rides Coord.: Melinda Correll 731-3156
DAYRIDES@BIKEGABA.ORG
Overnight Rides: Judy Bolt 512-0442
OVERNIGHTS@BIKEGABA.ORG
Centuries: Jill Hewins 275-4759
CENTURIES@BIKEGABA.ORG
Volunteers Coord: Dick Schaffer 326-4807
VOLUNTEER@BIKEGABA.ORG
Corrsp/Registr: OPEN
Bike Shops Coord.: Ram Salcedo 733-0230
BIKESHOPS@BIKEGABA.ORG
Merchandise: Sandi Rousseau 577-1187
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
SWAPMEET@BIKEGABA.ORG
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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Alphabetical list of
GABA-Tucson's Supporting Members.
See back page for individual ads.
Abelson, Todd, Mtg planner 901-7160
Ajo Bikes 294-1434
Bargain Basement 624-2331
Bodycentral 325-4002
Broadway Bicycles 296-7819
Darnall, Jeanie 886-9561
Fair Wheel Bicycles 884-9018
Green Valley Bike & Hike 393-7433
Guimont, Barry 390-3211
Leonard, Brice 508-633-5217
M & M Cycling Sierra Vista
New Body Studios 360-5912
Oro Valley Bicycle- 544-5999
Performance Bicycle 296-4715
Pima Street Bicycle 326-4044
Post, Eric 290-9944
R & R Bicycle 579-7829
Sabino Cycles 885-3666
Sun Jerseys None
Szach, Jerri 918-5855
TriSports.com 884-8743
Tucson Bicycles 577-7374
Wenberg, Susan, DC 326-1322
Yares, Greg, Realtor 323-9020
Ads (1 1/2" x 2 1/2") run from
July 1 to June 30 of the next year.
Ads paid-up by June 15 run on the July Cover.
Contact: Ram Salcedo, Bike Shop Coordinator,
733-0230 or bikeshops@bikegaba.org
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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; $30 for 2-day
events, $35 for 3-day events.
B. Help at registration or with any other tasks designated by the ride leader:
$5.
C. Lead a century ride: $45.
D. Lead a two-day overnight ride: $55.
E. Lead a three-day overnight ride: $65.
3. Write an article for the UPDATE. Worth $5 in "GABA Bucks" per article.
Contact UPDATE Editor, Suzanne Couvrette, 891-4661 or update-editor@
bikegaba.org.
4. Organize Social Events (picnic/ice cream social) Worth $25 "GABA Bucks".
Contact Social Director Pam Cullop at 290-4321 or socialdirector@bikegaba.org.
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Our own Donna Lewandowski is moving up from Correspondence/Registration
Coordinator to the more prestigious title of Vice President! Welcome Donna! We
know that you have done a great job so far, so this step up the ladder will be a
breeze for you!
By the way, we are now looking for someone to take over the position of
Correspondence/Registration Coordinator: if interested, please contact Donna for
details at mail@bikegaba.org.
Welcome Bob Klenke,
New Publicity Director!
We also have a new face on our Board: Bob Klenke, long time GABA member and avid
cyclist, has stepped up to the plate and volunteered to be our Publicity
Director!
Bob recently also teamed up with Judy Bolt to head the Salt River Canyon Bike
Ride, with great success! Welcome, Bob!
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By Tony Everett, President
The strategic plan is done, and now it’s time to begin to digest it and
implement the suggestions that will create the next 25 years of GABA History.
Help Wanted!
One of the suggestions included in “The Plan” is the need to make better use of
committees and greater use of volunteer members. The responsibilities of these
groups will serve a variety of interests and needs for your club. Let us know
what your interests are.
Help Wanted!
GABA is run entirely by volunteers. There is no paid staff! GABA Bucks are one
of the rewards for volunteering. These are redeemable for GABA Merchandise, ride
fees, or at BICAS for some really interesting art. The best compensation
however, is the satisfaction of knowing you gave something back.
Help Wanted!
Every year, we put on more rides, longer rides, better rides, and better events,
like the GABA GALA than we did last year. In 2006 alone, we organized and
provided leadership for over 200 day rides. We sponsored more centuries and
overnight rides than all the other bike clubs in the state. Our flagship ride,
the Cross State, hosted people from 21 states and 3 countries! The Tumacacori
Century attracted over 600 riders. To orchestrate a ride of this size required
28 dedicated volunteers. Every one of these rides was a success only because of
the outstanding support we all get. As I write this, we still don’t have a ride
leader for the Blue Loop Ride on Labor Day Weekend!
Help Wanted!
Along with all the needs I have already discussed, there are occasional
opportunities to join the GABA Board of Directors. We have openings as members
retire, or take new positions. The primary skills required for these jobs are
dedication, enthusiasm, and a desire to give something back.
Our membership is growing, and that brings more challenges, opportunities, and
the continuing need for more volunteers. More rides, new rides, more centuries,
and more overnight rides are all possible with support. Please take the time
today to make a commitment to help by contacting Dick Schaeffer, our Volunteer
Coordinator, me, or any of the board members. Our contact information can be
found on page 2. There is no better time than now to give something back to the
cycling community. The rewards of giving make it all worthwhile.
Be careful, Ride Safe, and Enjoy!
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By Suzanne Couvrette, Ride Organizer
If you rode the 2007 Sonoita Bisbee Ride, you know what I mean!
The ride started on Saturday morning, April 14th with blue skies and sunshine, a
mild day perfect for riding a bike. A slight breeze greeted the 114 riders who
were ready for a great ride with little traffic mainly on back roads with scenic
views.
All the 12 volunteers were at their post: 3 sag stops with 2 volunteers each and
plenty of food awaited hungry riders along the course; 2 roving vans (with 3
volunteers) were driving the course; 2 volunteers were handling baggage truck
duties; and one volunteer was already on the course placing GABA signs at each
turn.
This year again, the course took riders south of Sonoita in the rolling
grassland west and south of the Huachuca Mountains. Although there are some
short but steep hills, the scenery with vistas of distant mountain ranges made
this ride a very pleasant experience! Riders encountered a 3-mile dirt section
of road after they entered Fort Huachuca: everyone negotiated this unplanned
construction with ease.
Riders were routed through the new Hereford Bridge after Sag Stop #3, crossing
the San Pedro River where giant cottonwood trees grace the countryside. After
that, there was only about 10 miles of main highway before riders arrived in Old
Bisbee.
An optional group dinner at the Copper Queen Hotel offered delicious food and
fantastic desserts! Attending cyclists also participated in a raffle with prizes
including GABA jerseys and free entry to future GABA rides such as Luna Lake,
Blue Loop, Silverbell Century and Tumacacori Century.
Sunday morning dawned with predictions of some winds… Riders started early on
their return journey. But, by 8 AM, the trend was quite noticeable, and by 9 AM,
the winds were getting much stronger!
Most riders made it to Sag #2 in fort Huachuca. At that point, about 30-35
riders elected to shuttle back to Sonoita, while all the others continued on,
battling fierce winds from the west!
Congratulations to all the riders who finished the whole ride: winds gusting at
30 to 40 miles an hour certainly gave them a good work-out! And to all of those
who had to wait patiently at Sag #2 to get picked up, thank you for your
patience! The distance from Sag #2 to the Sonoita Fairgrounds was about 28
miles, and some drivers made that trip 2 or 3 times!
How many riders and bikes can fit in a pick-up or in a van? We found that,
amazingly, we could put 8 or 9 bikes in the back of a truck, and sit 7 people
including the driver in the cab! In the van, 6 people including the driver, did
enjoy an easy, but tightly squeezed, trip back to the start.
I want to thank the volunteers who did a tremendous amount of work during the
whole weekend, especially on Sunday!
Ed and Sue Roberts, at Sag #1, were back for the 4th year; Guenda Spafford and
Gail Grove at Sag #2, new sag crew on this ride; and Dave Ness and Jackie
Odermann at Sag #3, also new at running their own sag stop, all did a wonderful
job, handling all the "chores" associated with a sag stop with expertise and
good organization!
Roving Vans were driven by Pat Dow with Elva Klassen, and by Dennis Tallent:
thank you for all your work on both days! You gave excellent coverage of the
route, and rescued riders "in need" along the windy course!
Steve Shoemaker and Jim Edwards handled all the luggage with experience: they
loaded and unloaded more than 114 pieces of luggage with a smile on their faces!
Thank you for your attention to details: nothing was lost!
Dale Caughlin was assigned two jobs: he was sent ahead of all the riders to
place GABA signs at all the turns on the course on both days, and he was in
charge of shuttling riders who had chosen the 45-mile shorter option. On
Saturday, he ferried 7 or 8 riders. But, on Sunday, things got a lot more
hectic! He was well prepared with padding to put between bikes as he loaded as
many bikes as he could in the back of his truck. Thanks, Dale for all your help!
Well, after experiencing such high winds this year, I am hoping for a quieter
2008 Sonoita Bisbee Ride, maybe with tailwinds on both days! See you there!
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Contact Steve Graeber, Membership Director -
He is the ONLY one who can help you!
E-MAIL: steve@worldwerks.com
Answers To Frequently Asked Questions:
1. New memberships can take 6 weeks to be activated. A new membership starts the
1st of the month of your first Update.
2. Your membership expires on the date on your Update label, e.g. if the label
on your April Update says 4/30/07, that is your last issue.
3. We send postcards reminding members that their membership is about to expire;
they are printed up to a year ahead, so if you get a card after renewing, don't
worry! They just crossed in the mail. Mail your renewals early: lead time can be
6 weeks.
4. The cut-off to get any applications to Steve is the 15th of the month for the
following month; and it can take a month to get to him.
5. For a change of address, the lead time is as much as 6 weeks, so mail early.
Indicate which month you want the change to take effect. Snowbirds, you must
notify me every time you change addresses. The Post Office does not forward
Updates. Use the membership application on the inside back page.
6. We do not issue I.D. cards. Your Update label is your proof of membership.
7. Lastly, don't call Steve! E-mail works much better. If you must call, it's
762-1363. Speak clearly, and leave contact info, in case he needs to call you
back.
Remember, you annual dues do NOT support the club! Volunteers do! GABA NEEDS
YOU! VOLUNTEER!
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Due to overstocking,
we have a number of the superior quality
2006 jerseys with the southwest design,
currently available at the low, low, bargain price of $35 per jersey!
Sizes are limited, so hurry!
To take advantage of this sale,
please contact our merchandise coordinator,
Sandi Rousseau at 577-1187
or at merchandise@bikegaba.org.
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