Don’t Miss our 27th Annual Great Arizona Bicycle Adventure!
Training Rides for El Tour de Tucson XXV
28th Annual Tumacacori Century Gene Chapman Memorial Bicycle Ride
11th Annual Show Low Bluff Tour of the White Mountains
Cochise County Cycling Classic XX
Bike Patrols Needed for El Tour XXV
El Bike Swap de Tucson On Historic 4th Avenue!
Riding the Gila/Hassayampa River Trail - A Self-Contained Bike Tour
The 2007 Blue Loop Bike Tour, A Great Ride to Remember!
El Tour Turns 25 with New Sponsor
Trail of the Mountain Spirits Ride, a Phenomenal Success!
Hill Climbing Helps Makes You a Complete Cyclist!
Riding Self-Contained in the Idaho Panhandle
Welcome, New & Renewing Members!
Bike Swap Volunteers Pizza Party!
MS 150 Moves to New Starting Point in Florence
(See related articles in this issue for details.)
Ride Date Ride Name Organizers Leaders E-Mail_______
9/29-10/6 Great Az Bicycling Adventure GABA-Tucson Dorothy Barth cross-state@bikegaba.org
10/6 (Sat) Show Low Bluff Mtn Bike Ride Epic rides epicrides.com
10/13 (Sat) Cochise County Classic XX PBAA www.perimeterbicycling.com
10/13 & 14 Cave Creek Ride GABA-Tucson Linda Matson/Bill Sievers heyltd@cox.net
10/21 (Sun) Tumacacori Century GABA-Tucson Bob Klenke publicity@bikegaba.org
11/3 & 4 Riding the Gila/Hassayampa GABA-Tucson Cathy Crandall cathygeorge3200@hotmail.com
11/4 (Sun) Silverbell Century GABA-Tucson Suzanne Couvrette update-editor@bikegaba.org
11/10 (Sat) El Bike Swap de Tucson GABA-Tucson Greg Yares
11/17 (Sat) El Tour de Tucson PBAA www.perimeter bicycling.com
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Monday, October 1 at 7 PM
Join Steve Wilson and Patricia Lebensohn
for stories and slides on their recent bike tour
of the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Poland.
See the sights in Prague
and the beautiful countryside
they encountered on their 400 mile tour.
Hear stories of their adventures
with the challenging languages of eastern Europe.
Public welcome!
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Monday, November 10 at 7 PM
Don't miss Jim McDorman and Bob Spickle
telling tales from the
Fat Tire Bike Festival in Fruita, CO.
Rated the 7th-best Mountain Bike Destination
in the U.S. by Bicycling Magazine,
Fruita has become the hot new
mountain bike mecca in the Rockies.
And, since you can't go to Fruita
without making a side-trip to Moab,
Jim and Bob will also talk about
their adventures mountain biking
in Moab, Utah.
Public welcome!
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SEPTEMBER 2007
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. Dorothy Barth, 2007 Chair: cross-state@ bikegaba.org.
Message info-line: 520-349-5932.
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: Linda Matson & Bill Sievers, 232-3142, heyltd@cox.net or marinchip@cox.net.
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: Bob Klenke, 825-2601, bobmarie1003@aol.com and Judy Bolt,
512-0442, overnights@bikegaba.org.
Postponed to 2008: SOUL RIDE MOUNTAIN BIKE. www.epicrides.com.
Oct 28 (Sun) : PALO VERDE NUCLEAR CENTURY. GABA-West Valley. www.sportsfun.com.
NOVEMBER 2007
MS 150: DATE CHANGED FROM NOVEMBER 2007 TO MARCH 29 & 30, 2008. Multiple
Sclerosis Society. http://bikeaza.nationalMSsociety.org.
Nov. 3 & 4: RIDING THE GILA/HASSAYAMPA RIVER TRAIL SELF-CONTAINED BIKE TOUR.
GABA-Tucson. Beautiful 2-day ride starting in Gila Bend. Cycle on Old Hwy 80, a
road with minimal traffic. No sag support on this ride: everyone is riding
self-contained with their own supplies. Ride Leaders: Catherine Crandall &
George Mortimer, 624-8680 or cathygeorge3200@hotmail.com
Nov. 4 (Sun): SILVERBELL CENTURY. GABA-Tucson. Options for 100, 83, 74 or 67
miles Scenic course north and west of Tucson. Leaders: Suzanne Couvrette,
891-4661 or update-editor@bikegaba.org and Jim & Debra Harms, 241-5556.
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
OCTOBER
RISE SET
A.M. P.M.
1: 6:17 6:09
7: 6:21 6:01
14: 6;26 5:53
21: 6:32 5:45
28: 6:37 5:38
NOVEMBER
RISE SET
A.M. P.M.
1: 6:40 5:34
7: 6:45 5:29
14: 6:52 5:25
21: 6:58 5:21
28: 7:04 5:19
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There is still time! The ride is not full, so send in your registration as soon
as possible!
This 45-mile "short but sweet" road ride begins in Roadforks, New Mexico, and
takes you to the eastern side of the Chiricahua Mountains and the spectacular
little town of Portal, at the entrance to Cave Creek Canyon.
The first 30 miles is through rolling hills with one long downhill to the first
SAG stop at mile 20. Then, we turn east towards the canyon and start a long
gradual climb to the Portal Country Store at about mile 37. The lunch stop will
be set up 2 miles further in the canyon.
After riding along a flowing creek in the shade of lush sycamore trees, riders
meander on the canyon floor between spectacular towering cliffs! You’ll be in a
narrow canyon with small meadows where deer graze at dusk. And, you’ll see birds
of all descriptions everywhere around you! Our destination is the Southwestern
Research Station (SWRS), located at the end of the paved road, 5 miles beyond
the Portal Store.
The dormitory-style lodging is operated by the American Museum of Natural
History. It is surrounded by the Coronado National Forest and offers a welcome
retreat from the heat of the desert. As you come upon this oasis, the beautiful
grounds with tall trees and green grass beckon you! A 60-foot long, cool,
creek-fed swimming pool will seem inviting at the end of this gradual climb!
Enjoy ping-pong, volleyball, horse-shoes and an interesting library as you await
a generous dinner!
Ride fee: $120 for GABA/ABC Members; $135 for non-members.
Your fee includes:
Two sag stops along the course on Saturday;
A social mixer with snacks on Saturday afternoon around 3:30 PM;
Dinner on Saturday evening at 6 PM;
Breakfast on Sunday morning;
Lodging with bedding, towels and warm showers;
A lunch stop on Sunday 10 miles before the finish.
Sounds like fun? Tell your friends! Come and join us!
Start location: Meet at Shady Grove truck stop/restaurant (USA Petroleum) at
I-10 & Hwy 80, Exit 5, at Road Forks, NM, 5 miles EAST of the Arizona-New Mexico
state line. Park on the dirt area at the north end of their parking lot.
Start time: Check-in starts at 8:30 AM. Please start riding no later than 9:30
AM. Allow 2-1/2+ hours travel time from central Tucson to Roadforks, about 135
mi.
Questions? Contact Ride Organizers, Linda Matson and Bill Sievers, (520)
232-3142, heyltd@cox.net or marinchip@cox.net. Volunteers are always
appreciated. Call them if interested.
Cave Creek Ride Motel List
If you want to drive over the night before:
there is no lodging at Road Forks, NM.
Willcox, AZ - 47 mi WEST of start Lordsburg, NM - 15 mi EAST of start
Days Inn (520) 384-4222 Western Skies (505) 542-8807
Best Western Plaza Inn (520) 384-3556 Days Inn (505) 543-3600
Super 8 Motel (520) 384-0888 Super 8 Motel (505) 542-8882
Royal Western Lodge, (520) 384-2266 American (505) 542-3591
Budget Riteway Motel (520) 384-4655
Motel 8 (520) 384-3270
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Sept. 28 through Oct. 7, 2007
Registration Fee: $645 - Limited to 200 cyclists!
Ride Director: Dorothy Barth
Information Message Line: (520) 349-5932
Www.bikegaba.org or Cross-state@bikegaba.org
Mark your calendar for Friday, September 28th. That evening, cyclists from all
over the USA, some from Canada, and likely at least one from another continent
will gather in Phoenix, AZ. All will be anticipating the great week of cycling
to come. The next morning they’ll have their bicycles carefully loaded into a
moving van, while they board a bus for Laughlin, Nevada, just over the Arizona
border. Our stay Saturday night will be at the AVI Casino. We’ll kick off with a
welcome banquet, and when the ride starts the next morning, everyone will have
found a friend to pedal with.
On Day One, this year’s tour will travel through Oatman, a quaint old west town,
and on to Kingman. The next day cyclists will ride to Seligman, along Route 66.
On Day 3 our destination will be the south rim of Grand Canyon National Park. We
will spend the next day at the Grand Canyon. Participants will be free to cycle,
hike, explore the visitors’ center, or simply breathe in the scent of the pine
trees.
Our next day of cycling will keep us in the mountains, arriving in Flagstaff.
Following that is a day in the forests and along the Mogollon rim, ending in
Payson. Our final day will include a swift descent and a challenging climb,
ending on a downhill run (hopefully with a tailwind!) That night, at the Apache
Gold Resort, we’ll celebrate a great week with friends both old and new.
This tour is designed to provide you a safe and enjoyable week of cycling
through our great state. We offer free outdoor camping; we make it easy for
those who choose to motel. We’ll also provide three SAG stops each day of
cycling, full baggage and sweep support, several group dinners, and the
camaraderie of an exceptionally nice group of fellow riders.
If you haven’t had a chance to cycle in these parts of the state, here is a
great opportunity. Information is available on the GABA website at:
www.bikegaba.org. Click on the “Route 66” icon in the upper right hand corner of
the screen to link to the tour site. If you’d like a brochure or other
information, send me an e-mail at: cross-state@bikegaba.org. You can also call
the tour line at: 520-349-5932.
Spaces are limited on this tour, so please sign up early. The GABA Tour
Committee and staff would be delighted to have you along on this year’s cycling
adventure.
Great Arizona Bicycle Adventure
Route Details
Pre-Tour check-in: Friday, Sept. 28, 7 to 9 PM at the Best Western in Phoenix.
Sat. Sept. 29: Optional bus trip and bike transportation ($) from Phoenix Best
Western Airport Inn to AVI Casino, Laughlin, Nevada. We'll leave by 9 AM. Enjoy
our tour kick-off banquet later that evening.
Ride Day 1: Sunday, Sept. 30. 50 miles. Laughlin, NV to Kingman, AZ.
Approx. 5,100' of climb. Head to the Black Mountains, and cruise into the old
mining town of Oatman. Exchange one saddle for another and take a horseback
ride.
Ride Day 2: Monday, Oct. 1. 88 miles. Kingman to Seligman.
Approx. 3,900' of climb. Cycle on the longest currently used stretch of Route
66. Take a tour of the Grand Canyon Caverns, the largest dry caverns in the U.S.
Ride Day 3: Tuesday, Oct. 2. 99 miles. Seligman to Grand Canyon.
Approx. 5,700' of climb. Enjoy the changing scenery as you pedal to the high
desert forest of the South Rim. About 25 miles will be on the wide shoulder of
I-40, the only paved road connecting these places, during light midweek traffic.
Rest Day: Wednesday, Oct. 3. Day off at Grand Canyon National Park. Cycle the
East Rim Drive, or visit the spectacular overlooks of the West Rim Drive. Or
trade in cycling shoes for hiking boots and spend a day below the rim of the
canyon.
Ride Day 4: Thursday, Oct. 4. 80 miles. Grand Canyon to Flagstaff.
Approx. 3,300' of climb. Enjoy cooler temperatures at higher elevation and the
scent of the pine forests as you pedal along the shoulders of the San Francisco
Peaks.
Ride Day 5: Friday, Oct. 5. 94 miles. Flagstaff to Payson.
Approx. 5,600' of climb. Ride by Lake Mary in ponderosa pine forests. Crest over
the Mogollon Rim. Enjoy descents thru small towns of Strawberry (great pies) and
Pine.
Ride Day 6: Saturday, Oct. 6. 95 miles. Payson to San Carlos.
Approx. 8,000' of climb. Savor a thrilling 9-mile descent into saguaro country,
past Roosevelt Lake. View historic Roosevelt Dam, and travel over the world's
longest steel arch and suspension bridge. Test your legs on the steep climb to
follow, cycling through the old mining town of Globe, and on to San Carlos
country.
Sunday, Oct. 7: Optional bus trip ($) from the Apache Gold Resort to the Best
Western Airport Inn in Phoenix. Motor coaches will begin loading at 8:30 AM.
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By Tony Everett, GABA-Tucson President
El Tour time will be upon us before you know it. This year, El Tour will keep
basically the same route as last year with the counter-clockwise route around
the city. The exact route will be available later this fall from Perimeter
Bicycling.
GABA is providing training rides to help you get ready for the big event. The
training rides will continue through November 12thoffering steadily increasing
distances each week up to 90 miles the weekend before El Tour. We also continue
to offer shorter route options for those who will be doing the shorter El Tour
routes. Again, look for 2 starting locations: one at the NE corner of Grant &
Silverbell on the west side of the city, and the other one at Udall Park on the
east side. Details of the rides will be in the GABA monthly newsletters and on
the GABA website at www.bikegaba.org.
The training rides are designed to gradually increase your riding distance and
enduran-ce, familiarize you with the El Tour route, let you practice your ride
strategy and ride with others who are at your riding skill level. Except for the
2 centuries which are fully supported with sag stops well-stocked with food,
there is no cost for the training rides.
Date Time Mileage
Sunday, Oct. 7 6:30 AM 40/75
Sunday, Oct. 14 6:30 AM 40/80
Sunday, Oct. 21 6:30 AM GABA’s Tumacacori Century
Sunday, Oct. 28 7:00 AM 40/85
Sunday, Nov. 4 7:00 AM GABA’s Silverbell Century
Sunday, Nov. 11 7:00 AM 40/90
Perimeter Bicycling is expecting over 9,000 riders this year! Early sign-ups are
already coming in. Check www.perimeterbicycling.com for sign-up info and entry
forms. Note when the registration fees go up, sign up early and save some money.
El Tour XXV will be a special ride. If you’ve thought about doing El Tour before
but couldn’t quite convince yourself to take the plunge, this is the year! If
you’ve done a shorter distance in the past, choose a longer distance, or even
the 108-mile event. The GABA training rides provide an excellent opportunity to
get yourself in shape over time, and to evaluate your capability for the event
of your choice.
Perimeter Bicycling El Tour de Tucson is one of the finest century rides in the
country. You’ll find it difficult to find a better supported ride anywhere.
There’s nothing quite like cruising through intersection after intersection with
police officers holding back the traffic just for you. The camaraderie shared
with fellow riders is special and not soon forgotten. In case you were
wondering, most of the riders are not from Tucson, but hail from across the
state, the nation or from other countries.
Proper training is a critical prerequisite to a successful and enjoyable El Tour
experience. It’s key to start early and slowly build your mileage base to the
point you can comfortably ride 60-80% of the distance you plan to ride on El
Tour day. If you can ride 100%, that’s a bonus, but the excitement and support
on El Tour day will help carry you the extra miles beyond your normal training
ride distances.
It’s very important to experiment with foods and fluids before El Tour day.
Trying out a new energy bar/drink on El Tour day can lead to disaster. So, as
you’re training, try different combinations of snacks/drinks. Note how you feel
and how they affect your energy level. If they don’t work out for you, try
something else. There is no magic formula that works for every rider. If your
snack/drink doesn’t taste good to you, you’re likely to avoid it just when your
body needs it most. Proper hydration is an absolute must. If you go out for a
4-hour ride and don’t have to urinate somewhere along the route, you're not
properly hydrated. Low fluid and electrolyte levels can rob your body of much
needed energy and endurance, and could make your El Tour experience an
unpleasant one. So continue putting in the training miles. Come join us for the
training rides and we’ll see you at the start line at sunrise on November 17th!
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Sunday, October 21, 2007
New Route for the 100-Milers!
Mark your calendar!
Join us to celebrate the most popular bicycle ride in Southern Arizona! Three
options are available for riders from novice to very experienced cyclists: 24,
64 and 100 miles! All three options ride south through the scenic Santa Cruz
River Valley, through pecan forests & Tubac to the Tumacacori Mission, where
there is a wonderful Sag stop.
What makes this such a GREAT ride?
• It’s a beautiful time of year for a bicycle ride.
• It’s excellent training for El Tour de Tucson, which is one month later.
• The route is basically flat, with only a few slight hills. Often people record
their best time for riding a century!
• The route is well marked with GABA signs. Also, ride directions and maps are
provided for all the rides.
• Sag food stops are the best!! Delicious and plentiful food with cheerful
people to serve it!
• Sag support is available along the route for tired cyclists and weary bikes.
• Lunch is served to all at Sahuarita Elementary School after the ride.
This century offers a good opportunity to cycle a supported ride with the best
Sag stops in Southern Arizona, to prepare for El Tour de Tucson! Whatever option
you choose to ride in El Tour 2007, this can be a great training ride that will
help you achieve your Personal Best!
2007 TUMACACORI COMMITTEE:
In order to accomplish all of the above, an enthusiastic & competent group of
volunteers has been meeting to discuss routes, sag & lunch food and in general
ways to make this ride more efficient and organized. They are Bob Bolt & Mark
Levine in charge of truck supplies; Bill Borland & Lee Max overseeing routes &
signs; Pam Cullop organizing the lunch; Dede Seder & Lee Max supervising the
registration and Sandi Rousseau coordinating the 3 sag stops. This should be the
best Tumacacori Century ever, thanks to them!
NEW COURSE FOR THE 100-MILERS:
The 100 milers will have an “out & back” early in the ride to Corona de Tucson
and back, before continuing on to the Tumacacori Mission. There will be a sag
stop at Corona de Tucson to provide food and energy for riders. This is
basically a flat route with only some gentle rolling hills.
We strongly urge all cyclists who are attempting
their first century to participate in the
GABA El Tour Training Rides which include
riding up to 70 -80 miles in one day.
It is very important to be well trained
prior to attempting a century ride.
CHECK IN:
All options must check in at Sahuarita School “District Auditorium/Intermediate
School”. Take Exit 75 off I-19, approximately 15 miles south of Ajo Exit. Drive
east on Sahuarita Rd to school. Look for GABA signs and turn into parking lot.
Pick up route and rider instructions here.
NO MASS START:
Begin riding after you have checked in and picked up your ride instructions.
CPSC approved helmets are required for all riders.
All traffic rules must be obeyed.
PLEASE REGISTER EARLY!!
There were over 600 riders in 2006, and nearly 30% of those registered the day
of the ride! That makes it doubly tough to properly plan to provide YOU with the
best sags, facilities and LUNCH at the end! Pre-registration deadline is
Thursday, Oct. 18.
DAY-OF-EVENT RIDERS:
If you cannot pre-register ahead of time, please bring your Registration Form
and Waiver (get it at: www.bikegaba.org) already filled out and signed to the
start of the ride, with your check already made out to GABA-Tucson for the
appropriate amount. This will shorten your wait on the morning of the ride!
STARTING POINTS & REGISTRATION TIMES:
100 MILES
REGISTER AT 6:30 AM
NO MAJOR CLIMBS!
Starts and ends at Sahuarita Schools (Exit 75 off I-19, approximately 15 miles
south of Ajo Exit). NEW THIS YEAR: Ride east past Corona de Tucson to turn
around point at Highway 83. Return to Nogales Highway & head south to Tumacacori
Mission, enjoying sag food stops along the way. Lunch is available at the
Sahuarita Elementary School at the end of the ride.
64 MILES
REGISTER AT 7:30 AM
Starts and ends at Sahuarita Schools (Exit 75 off I-19, approximately 15 miles
south of Ajo Exit). Ride south along pecan groves past Green Valley, Arivaca
Junction and Tubac to the Tumacacori Mission and return. Flat course. Great
lunch for all afterwards at Sahuarita Elementary School.
24 MILES
REGISTER AT 8:30 AM
After checking in at Sahuarita Schools, drive SOUTH to Arivaca Junction (start
and finish point for this option); Exit 48 off I-19, approximately 17 miles
south of the school. Start riding around 9:00 AM. Ride south past Tubac to the
Tumacacori Mission & return on a flat course. Don’t forget to stop for lunch at
the Sahuarita Elementary School after the ride!
Tumacacori Century Ride Fee
Pre-Registration:
GABA/ABC Members: $20. Non-Members: $35.
PRE-REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS THURSDAY, OCT. 18
Day-of-Event Registration:
GABA/ABC Members: $30. Non-Members: $45.
Registering on the day of the event ? Please bring your Registration Form &
Waiver (get it at: www.bikegaba.org) already filled out & signed, and your check
already made out to GABA-Tucson for the appropriate amount.
That will save time at the start of the ride!
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.
YOUR RIDE FEE COVERS:
Fee covers 3 terrific sag stops with ice water, fruit, PB&J, various snacks and
cookies; sag support along the route; rider instructions PLUS lunch back at
Sahuarita Elementary School after the ride, from 10:30 AM to 3 PM.
BE PREPARED:
If you plan to do a Century, or an option that is longer than you normally ride,
please plan to do several rides ahead of time to prepare yourself! GABA El Tour
Training Rides are highly recommended to gradually bring your cycling abilities
to a new level. Be sure to carry plenty of water to sustain yourself between Sag
Stops, and carry necessary items to repair potential flat tires. There will be
sag support along each route option.
RIDE ORGANIZERS:
Bob Klenke, bobmarie1003@aol.com or (520) 825-2601 &
Judy Bolt, bojubolt@aol.com or (520) 512-0442.
Volunteers are always needed and appreciated. Call Judy or Bob if interested.
TUMACACORI CENTURY
GENE CHAPMAN MEMORIAL RIDE
PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
Sunday, Oct. 21, 2007
(ONE FORM PER RIDER)
Photocopies accepted. Please fill out all blanks.
Ride Leaders:
Judy Bolt, (520) 512-0442 or overnights@bikegaba.org
Bob Klenke, (52) 825-2601 or publicity@bikegaba.org
Return this Form & your check to:
GABA P. O. Box 43273, Tucson AZ 85733
Options chosen: (Please circle):
100 mi 64 mi 24 mi
Vegetarian: Yes No (for sags & lunch)
Pre-Registration Deadline: Thu, October 18
GABA/ABC Members: $20 $____________
Non-Members: $35 $____________
DAY-OF-EVENT FEE:
GABA/ABC Members: $30 $____________
Non Members: $45 $____________
Total money enclosed: $___________
I am currently a GABA/ABC member: Yes No
NAME
(Print):____________________________________
ADDRESS:_________________________________
CITY:____________________ ZIP:_____________
PHONE: ( ) ____________
E-MAIL: ___________________________________
CPSC-approved helmets are mandatory.
STAPLE your SIGNED WAIVER to each form.
Forms and Waivers cut with scissors are appreciated!
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Saturday, October 6, 2007
Show Low Bluff Tour of the White Mountains is Arizona’s longest standing
endurance mountain bike event. Epic Rides couldn’t be more proud to continue the
White Mountains cycling tradition held each Fall in the Apache-Sitgreaves
National Forest.
The 11th Annual Tour of the White Mountains, scheduled for Saturday, October 6,
showcases some of Pinetop & Lakeside, Arizona’s greatest mountain biking trails.
At 7,000 feet of elevation, riders will discover the challenges of rugged
terrain amongst a Ponderosa pine forest backdrop, plus witness the endless
beauty (and perfect distraction) of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. This
event is a long-standing favorite to Arizona’s mountain bike community.
With the onset of fall upon us, participants, spectators and volunteers will
enjoy cooler climates, leaves changing colors and of course the laid back
atmosphere of an Epic Rides event. The Pinetop-Lakeside community is sure to
please any visitor with ample outdoor activities and plenty of opportunities to
soak up local culture. Epic Rides encourages participants and their guests to
spend the weekend in and around the town experiencing a vacation close to home
and in the White Mountains.
For the benefit of: Show Low Bluff Tour of the White Mountains benefits the
Navapache Regional Medical Center, a regional referral hospital serving
Arizona’s White Mountain communities.
Ride Fee:
66-Mile | 52-Mile | 41-Mile | 35-Mile : $60
10-mile Breezers and Geezers Ride: $55
For more information, check www.epicrides.com. You can get 3D maps of each of
the courses, as well as accommodations information.
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We still have some 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,
contact Merchandise Coordinator, Sandi Rousseau
at 349-3749 or at merchandise@bikegaba.org.
You can also buy directly from Sandi at regular GABA monthly meeting, on the 1st
Monday of each month.
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Saturday, October 13th
The 20th Annual Cochise County Cycling Classic is around the corner! All options
start & end at the 10th Street Park in Douglas. Challenge yourself! See how far
you can really go!
Olympic-like medallions to all 252, 157, 92 and 45-mile finishers. Platinum for
men cycling 252 miles under 12 hours and women finishing 252 miles under 14
hours; Gold to all other 252-mile finishers; Silver to all 157-mile finishers;
and Bronze to all 92-mile finishers. A special Gold Medallion will be awarded to
all 45-mile finishers.
Four options are available:
252 miles - perimeter of Cochise County, starts at 2 AM;
157 miles - perimeter of Dragoon Mtns, starts at 7 AM;
92 miles - perimeter of Potter Mountain, starts at 8 AM;
45 miles - no perimeter, just a circle! starts at 8 AM.
Organized by PBAA to benefit Douglas Association for Retarded Citizens. Food &
water supplied for 92 and 45-mile events participants; Free post-ride brunch to
all registered cyclists and much more! For information, call PBAA, (520)
745-2033, or check their website at www.perimeterbicycling.com.
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Ride with a purpose...
Lend a helping hand...
Help keep our streets safe...
Members of the Bike Patrol are experienced cyclists who make the commitment to
ride the "El Tour" route assisting cyclists with mechanical and first aid, as
well as offering encouragement and moral support. It is not a race for Bike
Patrols!
Bike Patrols must have a current certification, good for 2 years. To be
certified, you must attend a certification class. Sessions run about 2 hours. As
Bike Patrol, your El Tour registration fee is waived, but a small processing fee
is required to cover cost of T-shirt, medical supplies and support on the route.
For information and to register, call PBAA, (520) 745-2033, or check their
website at www.perimeterbicycling.com.
2007 Bike Patrol Certification Classes
9/13 (Thu) 7:00 PM - 2609 E. Broadway - Basic Certification
10/9 (Tue) 7:00 PM - 2609 E. Broadway - Basic Certification
11/7 (Wed) 6:00 PM - 2609 E. Broadway - Basic Certification
11/12 (Mon) 7:00 PM - 2609 E. Broadway - Advanced Mechanics
11/13 (Tue) 7:00 PM - 2609 E. Broadway - Advanced Topics
11/16 (Fri) 5:30 PM - Convention Ctr 260 S. Church Ave - Basic Certif.
El Tour Expo/Packet Pick-Up
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Saturday, November 10th
- From 8 AM to 2 PM -
Come one, come all! Don't miss the Fall 2007 Bike Swap! Tell your friends! Bring
the whole family! This is the largest Bike Swap in the Southwest!
Everybody is welcome! No charge for selling or buying! Vendors may arrive at the
site - 4th Avenue, south of 6th Street, between 6th Street and 9th Street, as
early as 6:30 AM to set up. Shortly afterwards, buyers will start showing up,
ready to find the bargains!
DIRECTIONS: If you are coming from out of town (from the north, such as
Phoenix), follow I-10 until Speedway (Exit 257), then take the frontage road
south to St Mary's Rd, then go East on St Mary's Rd, which will turn into 6th
Street after you cross the railroad tracks. Continue until 4th Avenue, and
follow GABA signs to parking on side streets. (St Mary's Rd exit is closed).
Again this year, Bike Swap Organizer Greg Yares will need several volunteers to
bring supplies from the GABA storage unit, to cordon off some areas in the
morning, to direct traffic and for other miscellaneous tasks. After the event,
volunteers are needed to police the area, return all the supplies back to the
storage unit, etc.
If interested in helping out, come to the Volunteers Get-Together Pizza Party on
Thu., Nov. 9th, at 6 PM, at Brooklyn Pizza, 534 N. 4th Ave, just a few doors
from the Bike Swap site. After eating and getting acquainted, Greg will walk
down the Avenue to show volunteers what they will need to do and where things
will be set up. Please call Greg at 323-9020 or yares@cox.net to let him know
you are coming - we need to have enough pizzas ready!
Mark your calendar! See you at the Bike Swap!
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November 3 & 4, 2007
Join Cathy Crandall & Gorge Mortimer for a beautiful 2-day ride starting in Gila
Bend. Cycle along the Gila River through Ghost towns of Arlington and Hazen on
Old Hwy 80, a road with minimal traffic. Many lush green farms along the route.
Lodging (your choice) in the quaint town of Buckeye with lots of time to explore
the sites. Suggested Motels: Westward Motel, 623-386-4665 or Ranch House Motel,
623-386-4207 in downtown Buckeye, or Days Inn, 623-386-5400 by the freeway.
No sag support on this ride: everyone is riding self-contained with their own
supplies. S
For more information of this ride, please call the Ride Leaders: Catherine
Crandall & George Mortimer, 624-8680 or cathygeorge3200@hotmail.com
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Sunday, November 4, 2007
Options for 100, 83, 74 or 67 miles
Two Weeks Before El Tour!
Scheduled just 2 weeks before El Tour, the Silverbell Century comes at a time
when your training needs to intensify for the last time before the great event!
Ride on a portion of the "El Tour" route on the northwest side of town, with
long stretches of straight flat roads, perfect to practice riding in a group
and/or paceline.
New Improved Course this year! All options will start and end near River Rd. &
Craycroft. The 100-mile course will have some short climbs at the beginning,
then a long downhill on Tangerine, finishing with flat terrain for the last 50
miles! The other 3 options will use basically the same course as the 100-milers,
but with some short-cuts here and there, allowing riders to pick whatever
distance they want to ride.
Care has been given in choosing a course with less traffic and in avoiding major
intersections. All major turns will be marked with GABA signs. If riding in a
pack or a paceline, please let other riders behind you know of any road hazards.
Riding at high speed in a group requires complete focus to avoid accidents.
General Course for the 100-milers:
From River Rd. & Craycroft, riders will go East on River Rd. to Sabino Canyon
Rd. to Sunrise, then West on Sunrise to Kolb, North on Kolb looping on Craycroft
back to Sunrise. Then, West on Sunrise to Skyline to Ina past Oracle Rd.
Following a course with GABA signs at each turn, you will make your way to
Rancho Vistoso where the course will take you West on Moore Rd. and Tangerine
Rd. all the way to the west end of Avra Valley, turning around at the bottom of
the climb to the Silverbell Ghost Town. The return will be via Airline Rd. and
back on River Rd., then over the new Alvernon Bridge to Glenn to Craycroft and
back to the finish at River Rd. & Craycroft.
Starting Location for All Options:
Meet at River & Craycroft, NE corner. Sign in and pick up your Ride Maps.
Sign-in Time for All Options:
Volunteers will be ready to sign-in Pre-registered Riders, starting at:
7 AM for the 100-milers;
7:15 AM for the 83 and 74-milers;
7:30 AM for the 67-milers.
Day-of-the-Event riders will sign-in after the pre-registered riders.
No Mass start:
Start when ready. CPSC-approved helmets are mandatory. All traffic laws must be
obeyed. Ride two abreast ONLY WHEN THE BIKE LANE IS WIDE ENOUGH; otherwise,
riders must ride single-file. Everyone must be on the road no later than 8 AM.
Options: 100, 83, 74 or 67 miles:
All options are on your route map. The turn-around points will be marked on the
road. Riders can pick and choose a distance that suits their need; it will even
be possible to change option at mid-point if you feel like more (or less) miles!
Ride Support:
This ride will be fully supported with 3 SAG stops with fruit, water, snacks &
sandwich makings. Roving vans will be along the course to help out in case of
mechanical failure. The course will be marked with GABA "sandwich" signs at each
turn.
Ride Organizers:
Suzanne Couvrette, update-editor@bikegaba.org, or (520) 891-4661, and
Co-Leaders, Jim and Debra Harms. Volunteers are needed and appreciated: contact
Jim and Debra at 241-5556 or at jimatwfg@tucsondreammakers.com if interested.
Pre-Registration Fee: GABA Members: $15 Non-Members: $30
Day-of-Event Fee: GABA Members: $25 Non-Members: $40
Why not join GABA today?
Get our monthly newsletter deliveredd to your door AND this ride at member
priices!
Add $15 for individual memberships, $18 for family memberships, $10 for student
members.
ATTENTION DAY-OF-EVENT RIDERS:
Please download the Registration form & Waiver
from our website at: www.bikegaba.org. Bring it to the start
already filled out & signed along with your check
already made out to GABA-Tucson for the appropriate amount.
This will help minimize long waiting lines.
SILVERBELL CENTURY
PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
Sunday, Nov. 4, 2007
(ONE FORM PER RIDER)
Photocopies accepted. Please fill out all blanks.
Leader: Suzanne Couvrette, 891-4661 or update-editor@bikegaba.org
Return this form & your check to:
GABA P. O. Box 43273, Tucson, AZ 85733
Option chosen: (Please circle)
#1 (100 miles) #2 (65 miles)
Both options must sign in at River & Craycroft
Pre-registration Fee:
GABA/ABC Member fee $15 $_____
Non-member fee: $30 $_____
DAY of EVENT:
GABA/ABC members $25 $_____
Non members $40 $_____
Total money enclosed: $__________
I AM Currently a GABA member: Yes No
NAME
(print)____________________________________
ADDRESS__________________________________
CITY_____________________ ZIP ____________
PHONE ___________________________________
E-Mail_____________________________________
CPSC-approved helmet are mandatory.
STAPLE your SIGNED WAIVER to each form.
Forms & Waivers cut with scissors appreciated!
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By Guenda and Jack Spafford
What a wonderful weekend for the annual GABA Tucson Blue Loop Tour! If you
missed it this year, you will want to start planning now for next year. We had
an amazing group of cyclists from far beyond Arizona. One was originally from
India and the day he signed in, we were told he had only been cycling in America
for two months, but he had done three centuries. Many cyclists joining us this
year had ridden the Blue Loop several times before. The weather was perfect, the
food was wonderful and our staff was incredible.
We had a new start point in Clifton, Arizona this year. The “loop” began
Saturday morning to cool, partly cloudy weather for the 62 miles into Glenwood,
New Mexico. The riders climbed into the oak and grasslands of the higher
elevations and experienced the beauty of fields of sunflowers. We were greeted
by our gracious host, Polly Tipton of the Double T Homestead when we arrived in
Glenwood. A wonderful meal of beef or chicken barbecue, potato salad, vegetarian
casserole, beans, brownies and beverages was served to a hungry and appreciative
crowd. We enjoyed a relaxing evening, with conversations with our fellow
cyclists as a light rain fell.
Sunday morning Polly served a wake-up meal of breakfast burritos, zucchini
bread, oatmeal, fruit salad, juice, milk and coffee. This was the perfect way to
start the 58- mile ride with 5346 foot elevation gain for this day.
We had a group dinner served by Jenn Swenson of the Little Adobe Café in Alpine.
The meal was fantastic and enjoyed by everyone. Jenn’s entire family helped,
including her daughter who served our dinner with all the grace of a seasoned
trouper. We enjoyed chicken scallopini, salads, homemade breads and pastries,
cake and pie that were appreciated all around.
Monday morning, Jenn made breakfast for us, which included egg frittata,
potatoes O’Brien, sausages, fruit, and assorted breakfast pastries. All our
cyclists were in route and pedaling by 7 AM and back in Clifton by 4 PM.
By the cyclists accounts, the ride was a great success! Our staff were hard
workers, and without their help, the ride could not , and would not, have been
so successful!
Jack and I want to express our heartfelt thanks to Herb and Gail Grove, who ran
our baggage truck with such expertise. They set up “snacks” at all the campsites
and handled the back breaking luggage job with smiles all through the ride.
Thanks to Roy Cogley and Bonney Galloway, who ran Sag 1, our “breakfast stop” so
smoothly. Our Sag 2 was run by Tim and Marylee Hickman. Marylee prepared makings
for sandwiches, while in between chores, Tim shot pictures of the riders and
scenery. Tony and Nancy Crosby were our Sag 3 hosts, who we can’t thank enough
for their generous help. Bob and Linda Epstein joined Jack and myself in sweep
support.
We were fortunate that we had very few breakdowns. Thanks again to Roy Cogley
for providing parts to fix the derailleurs that had a problem along the way. The
ride was a complete success and we owe it all to you who put up with Jack and I
, as first time leaders. Once again, thank you.
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TUCSON, Ariz. – At a Tucson Convention Center news conference today, Richard J.
DeBernardis, founder & executive director of El Tour de Tucson, announced with
great pleasure a three-year commitment by University Medical Center (UMC) to be
the new title sponsor of El Tour as the event celebrates its silver anniversary.
University Medical Center, is an independent not-for-profit 355-bed academic
medical facility that is affiliated with the University of Arizona Colleges of
Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy and Public Health. UMC is the only Tucson hospital
recognized as one of “America’s Best Hospitals” by U.S. News & World Report,
ranking among the top fifty hospitals in the nation in four areas of specialty
medical care (cancer, heart and heart surgery, respiratory disorders and
geriatrics). UMC is also Arizona’s first Magnet hospital – a tribute to the
excellence of its nursing staff – and Southern Arizona’s only Level I trauma
center. UMC has also been identified by Solucient as one of the nation’s top 100
hospitals in each of the past two years. UMC operates the recently completed
Peter and Paula Fasseas Cancer Clinic, as well as three physician offices,
including one in Green Valley. UMC is committed to the health and wellness of
Tucson and the broader community it serves and now employs over 3,500 to help
achieve its mission.
DeBernardis also announced that Diamond Ventures, Inc. returns as El Tour’s
presenting sponsor for the eighth year in a row. Diamond Ventures is a
Tucson-based full-service real estate company known for its quality residential,
retail, commercial and industrial planning and development. Its residential
developments are often recognized for their numerous and carefully designed
bicycling, walking and equestrian trails.
Proceeds from this year’s event will again benefit Tu Nidito Children and Family
Services whose mission is to provide individual, family and group support to
children and their families as they deal with serious illnesses and death.
El Tour officials look to raise over $275,000 for Tu Nidito, the American
Parkinson Disease Association, Water For People and other Perimeter Bicycling
charities and expect Leukemia & Lymphoma Society cyclists to raise $3 million.
On Sunday, September 16th, El Tour season begins with the Diamond Ventures 10th
annual El Tour Kick-Off 10K & 5K Run/Walk at Continental Reserve. Each day
thereafter, through El Tour, Flag Riders will bicycle the entire El Tour route
carrying the El Tour flag. And, new this year, is the Diamond Ventures El Tour
Halloween 10K & 5K Run/Walk at Sycamore Park on Sunday, October 28th.
El Tour week, itself, includes a 3-day Bike, Fitness & Health EXPO with the
Michelob ULTRA Beer Garden, Orientation Meetings, a 2-day Wellness Conference, a
Dedication Dinner and the Rusing & Lopez 12th annual El Tour Golf Classic.
Ride day opens with the 109-mile Main Event and includes the Cox Communications
80-Mile El Tour, the Intuit 66-Mile El Tour, the Town of Oro Valley 35-Mile El
Tour, the TMC Kids & Family Fun Ride and, new last year, the Lemond Fitness
Indoor El Tour. Kids activities, live bands, a beer garden, food, massages, the
Grand Cycling Awards Ceremony and a grand finale by the internationally renowned
Flam Chen fire show round out the El Tour Downtown Fiesta.
The event is also supported by 92.9 The Mountain, AAA Landscape, Aquafina,
Bruegger’s Bagel Bakery, Citi Cards, City of Tucson, City of Tucson Water, Clif
Bar, Cox Communications, Cross Country Automotive Services, Enterprise
Rent-A-Car, Greater Arizona Bicycling Association, Golden Eagle Distributors,
Intuit, Jim Click Hyundai, KZAZ-TV, KGUN 9, MTCVB, Metro Restaurants,
Performance Bicycle Shop, Picor, Pima County, Pizza Hut, Rio West, Texas
Instruments, Tucson Home Magazine and Velo News.
The UMC El Tour de Tucson presented by Diamond Ventures will be held Saturday,
November 17th, 2007. Last year’s event drew 8,248 cyclists, 2,700 volunteers and
27,000 spectators. El Tour is expected to bring in approximately $50 - $70
million to the Tucson area during the course of the year including $20 - $30
million on ride weekend alone. This year’s event was chosen by the League of
American Bicyclists as the 2007 National Bicycle Rally.
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by Jamie Moore
This year, for the first time, GABA offered an alternative to the popular Blue
Loop Tour that takes place over the 3-day Labor Day weekend. What a treat for
those of us who are not “experienced riders conditioned for long, gradual climbs
as well as long exhilarating descents” over “demanding terrain.”
Twenty-three riders met in Silver City for this great ride. Twenty-three riders
of all ages and diverse backgrounds. The plan was to ride the 31 miles from
silver City to City of Rocks State Park, stopping in Hurley for lunch. A few
miles out of Silver City, we were surprised by a torrential downpour, complete
with thunder and lightning. We arrived at our lunch spot wet and sodden but in
good spirits! After drinking copious amounts of hot tea and coffee to stave off
hypothermia, we continued on our way. The route to City of Rocks State Park was
amazing. Very little traffic on a holiday weekend. It was like going back in
time. And the scenery was unbeatable.
We arrived at City of The Rock State Park in plenty of time for hot showers
before dinner, which consisted of chili, salad, and desert. The City of Rocks
State Park is an amazing feat of geology, rocks rising in jumbled groups, as
though haphazardly tossed by Titans thousands of years ago, providing plenty of
secluded camping spots for all. Since our ride was only 31 miles long, we all
had plenty of time and energy to socialize and to get to know one another. Our
trip organizer, Catherine Crandall, introduced us to something she called
“Talking Spoon”, a great ice-breaker and community-building activity. As we
passed the spoon, we shared personal histories and bicycling experiences. A
sprinkle of rain interrupted our social activities, forcing us each to our own
tents to read or to retire early.
Hard to believe, but day two was even more incredible than day one. 38 miles and
miles of scenic, traffic-free roads as we followed the Mimbres River. And the
weather? Sunny and 80 degrees. Our destination today was Camp Thunderbird, a
retreat with dormitory-style cabins. This camp has an interesting history shared
with us by the camp manager, Donna (who has an interesting history herself.)
Here we were pampered: hot showers, virtually private accommodations, and
wonderful meals. Many of us sat around the campfire while some of the cyclists
played guitar and sang. Some of us decided to forgo the luxury of real beds and
chose to camp out again. Some of us were even foolish enough to sleep out
without pitching tents and woke to find our gear wet with dew.
The best was saved for last. On day three, we rode through pine forests, over
rolling hills, until 12 miles into the ride we encountered a series of
switchbacks, exciting for some and daunting for others, up and over the
mountain. Some of us (not being the “experienced and conditioned riders”) opted
to walk part of the way. At the top of the climb awaited our wonderfully
supportive ride organizer, offering us water, soda, snacks, and kudos. From here
it was a series of wonderful descents with occasional (alas) short climbs. After
riding (or walking) through the historic town of Pinos Altos, there was a
well-earned 8-mile descent into Silver City.
There were several things about this ride that made it special. First, it was
not necessary to be "iron man" to complete this ride. It was do-able by “C”
level riders. Second, the distances were short enough to leave time (and energy)
for socializing. Third, there was virtually no traffic on a holiday weekend.
Fourth, the weather was great (despite the thunderstorm). Fifth, the number of
participants was small enough to enable us all to get to know one another. This
is the first GABA event ever where I can say that I know everyone’s name and
something about every rider.
Thank you, GABA, for finally offering a multiple-day ride that all of us can do.
Please, let’s make this an annual event.
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By Richard E Corbett,
Master League Cycling Instructor & Coach
I have been leading well attended C+ Coached Training rides this summer, and
still sometimes encounter cyclists who say, “I’m pretty good, but I don’t climb
very well”. Well, to be a solid and ‘complete’ cyclist, you do need to climb
well. Not fast necessarily, but decently. Climbing long hills is something we
all have to do when we ride in southern Arizona, or we limit our riding choices.
So, the best thing to do is to ‘buckle down’ and build the strength and
conditioning to be able to climb ‘decently’.
There are several ‘keys’ to climbing hills well. Conditioning (the most
important), attitude, knowledge, and equipment all combine to make hills a lot
‘easier’.
Conditioning:
"The only way to get in condition for hill climbing is to climb hills". This is
still as true now as it was 25 years ago. However, there are alternate ways to
condition yourself for hill climbing. Your quadriceps and your heart are the
major muscles used in climbing. Exercises specific to the quads, usually done
with machines or free weights, can prepare these important muscles. We all
should know about heart exercise - it's what makes us breathe heavily - aerobic.
This means that many different activities can serve for heart exercise. You can
combine exercises for your quads with aerobic by repeatedly climbing stairs, if
you have them available.
Attitude:
If you believe a hill is going to be too hard, then it will be. On the other
hand, if you believe you are well prepared, and that the hill is well within
your capability, then it won't be too hard. Goal setting, visualization, and
similar mental techniques work, if you believe they will! I use and teach a hill
climbing technique called 'Swiss-cheesing'. Break the climb into small 'pieces'
by picking a sign, a curve, or a patch on the pavement, about 100 meters in
front of you, then focus on riding to it. When you get there, mentally celebrate
getting there, then set a new goal. Ride to it, and so on. Soon the entire hill
will be behind you!
Knowledge:
Knowing gear use, breathing, resting, lane position, eating and drinking is
important to being a successful hill climber. All these are found in the book,
Effective Cycling, and are taught in League Cycling courses.
Use a gear that lets you balance the work of climbing between your legs and your
lungs. Breath deeply instead of shallowly, and periodically take extra deep,
'cleansing' breaths (those who have had natural childbirth training will know
about cleansing breaths). If you must stop to rest, limit your stop to no more
than two minutes, and simply straddle the bike - don't get all the way 'off'.
Ride closer to the pavement edge, since you are going so much slower. Be
especially aware of your lane position on hillcrests and blind curves to the
right (can you be seen far enough ahead of time by an overtaking driver?). Eat
easily digestible snacks, very lightly, on long climbs; and drink lightly, but
regularly, on all climbs. If you do these things , you will have a much easier
time climbing.
Equipment:
Lower gears are quite helpful, as they allow you to sit while climbing. In
Arizona we have lots of BIG climbs that take anywhere from 20 minutes to several
hours, so being able to sit and climb comfortably is essential. Even if I lived
where climbs are a lot shorter, I would still be a firm believer in climbing
while sitting, because the stresses that standing up to pedal places on your
knees are great while climbing (stand for short periods to give your legs/body a
break).
Other equipment that makes a difference includes rims, tires and tubes. All
other things equal, the lighter they are, the easier your climb will be. But
really light rims are more easily damaged, and really light tires/tubes are more
easily punctured; so your choice will generally be a compromise between
lightness and durability.
Hill climbing will never be ‘easy’, but it can be easier for you than it is now,
IF you improve your conditioning, attitude, knowledge, and equipment.
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By Linda Matson & Bill Sievers
As much as I love Tucson, August is a good time to be elsewhere. We escaped for
a week to the Idaho Panhandle area for a self-supported “credit card tour”
around the abundant lakes and rivers of that area. We followed a modified
version of a route that Bill had ridden last year on a supported group tour
organized by Sandy Green, The Idaho Bicycle Ride (www.oregonbicycleride.org).
The logistics for this trip could not have worked out better. We flew to
Spokane, Washington, to begin this 360-mile loop and caught a free airport
shuttle to the Oxford Suites Hotel in Spokane Valley. The hotel stored our bike
cases for us (we asked ahead) and it was located just steps from the Centennial
Trail along the Spokane River, which would take us all the way to Coeur d’Alene.
We rode to Sandpoint, Idaho, took a day off there, then circled Lake Pend
Oreille and down along the Clark Fork River, crossing another state line to
Thompson Falls, Montana.
I can’t tell you how many osprey we saw in Idaho. The young osprey were just
getting ready to fledge, standing on the edge of their massive stick-pile nests
and flapping their wings, trying to drum up the chutzpah to jump for the first
time.
Carrying everything we needed for a week in a set of rear panniers, we climbed
over Thompson Pass and descended to Kellogg where we picked up another paved
river trail, the Trail of the Coeur d’Alene.
We took a day off in Harrison on Lake Coeur d’Alene, where we stayed at a
wonderful B&B and rented kayaks. The temperatures were in the mid-80’s during
the day and mid-50’s at night.
Then we closed the loop, pedaling around the lake and through the pines on
Highway 97 to Coeur d’Alene and zipped back up the Centennial Trail to the
Oxford Suites Hotel.
Those of you who love big cities, shopping, and nightlife should skip this trip.
But if you appreciate gorgeous river and lake views, wildlife, and small towns,
you might like it. Feel free to contact me at heyltd@cox.net if you’d like more
details.
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New Members:
BILL SARNACK-ALLEY; JAY MIDYETT; MICHELLE & SHAWN WOOD; KELLI ZESPY; DONALD
LIGHTFOOT; JOHN & PAMELA THOMPSON; EPHRAIJ & OLLY MAOR: MERWIN BROWN; KATHY
SHIRLEY; SHAWN BATES; MARK YARNISH; MATT FRANCIS; ERIK RYBERG; WILLIAM CASSIDY;
TOM CONNER; ROBERT & MICHELLE HOOVER; CHRIS MICHALUK.
Renewing Members:
RICHARD BURNS; RUTH WENBERG; DON REGOLE; HEATHER CONTORNO; ART HAVEMEYER; GARY &
CONNIE OSTEDT; GENA & SU KELLEY; MARY ANNE FACELLI; MIKE WOODLOCK; SUSAN & BILLY
SCHOENBERG; HERB DOUGLAS; FRED BLATT; BRICE LEONARD; RONNI ROBLES; IRMA & BILL
SANDERCOCK; MIKE & CAROLYN SCHUETZE; COLIN & MANDY CORDELL; LARRY HANSEN; BRAD
LAWRENCE; DAVID & PAULINE RENNER; DAVID TAYLOR; JAMES & MARY ANN JORDAN; RICHARD
E. CORBETT.
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Thursday, 11/8/07 at 6 PM
at Brooklyn Pizza, 534 N. 4th Ave
By Greg Yares
Interested in helping out for an hour, or maybe more? This event requires
several volunteers to set up and take down. Anyone interested in helping gets a
free pizza dinner, courtesy of GABA-Tucson! Come on and join us! Everybody is
welcome!
After getting some pizza for sustenance, let's all walk down the street for
hands-on planning! Duties to be allocated: picking up supplies from the GABA
storage unit; cordoning off certain areas; allocating spaces for vendors;
directing buyers to nearby parking areas; some traffic control; cleaning up
after the event; returning all supplies, working an hour at the GABA table, etc.
Pick the time and the length of time that you are willing to help: there is
something for everyone! A couple of hours of your time will be greatly
appreciated!
Also, anyone willing to spend some time at the "GABA table" giving out
information on Club membership and week-end rides, recruiting new members, and
selling GABA jerseys, come to the Party! We welcome your help!
PLEASE CALL GREG AHEAD OF TIME at 323-9020 or contact him via e-mail at swapmeet@bikegaba.org,
to let him know you are coming, so he can figure out how many pizzas to order!
See you there!
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By Virginia Roberts for Carolyn Audilet
Hundreds of Arizona cyclists are gearing up for the 22nd annual MS Bike Ride,
March 29-30, 2008. This premier cycling event, hosted by the National Multiple
Sclerosis Society, Arizona Chapter, has added new features to the two-day
experience, making it more enjoyable for participants of all cycling abilities.
The upcoming MS Bike Ride will include a figure-eight route that travels through
Florence, Coolidge, Casa Grande, Sacaton, and Queen Creek. The start, finish and
overnight celebration will all take place in Florence, which is easily
accessible to riders in both Tucson and Phoenix. This new location will provide
more overnight options to cyclists, who can choose to stay in a hotel, camp out,
rent an RV, or even sleep soundly at home between the two days of cycling.
The event will kick off with a festival on Friday night. On Saturday, the ride
will begin at Heritage Park and cyclists can choose from 4 route options: a
35-miler, a 75-miler, a one-day 100-miler, or the 2-day 150-mile ride. As
always, the MS Bike Ride is fully supported with rest stops, medical personnel,
and SAG (support and gear) vehicles to help along the way, as well as an
overnight party with food and entertainment.
To help cyclists prepare for the event, the Arizona Chapter will be hosting
weekly training rides in various cities. Beginner training rides have already
started in Ahwatukee, Fountain Hills, Glendale, and Scottsdale. Tucson training
rides are scheduled to start in late November.
Participants also have the option of joining a team or creating a new team. This
provides a great way to meet other cyclists, build morale and gain support. Any
group of 4 or more people can form a team by visiting http://bikeaza.nationalMS
society.org or by calling 1-800-344-4867. The MS Bike Ride also accommodates
single riders.
There is a $75 registration fee for this event, and a minimum of $250 in pledges
is required from each participant. However, riders that register by December 31,
2007 will pay the Early Bird registration fee of $50. Registration is available
online at http://bikeaza.nationalMSsociety.org or by phone at 1-800-344-4867.
After registering, cyclists will receive everything they need to collect
contributions. The MS Bike Ride website also provides online fundraising tools
to make it easy for participants’ friends and family to contribute to the ride.
Cyclists who raise more than $500 will receive an MS Bike Ride jersey or can
choose from an assortment of great prizes.
The MS Bike Ride raises more than $650,000 annually to support local programs
and research for more than 6,000 Arizonans living with the devastating effects
of multiple sclerosis. For more information and to register for the MS Bike
Ride, please visit the MS Bike Ride Website: http://bikeaza.nationalMSsociety.org.
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Happy Birthday El Tour de Tucson !!!
Welcome to the League of American Bicyclists!!
By Tony Everett, President
The next few months, while always great for cycling in Tucson, will prove to be
better than ever in 2007. After a blistering summer which gave us 37 days in a
row with temperatures exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and the third highest
low temperature in Tucson’s History, 87 degrees on July 6th, we are now enjoying
the splendors of fall weather. Mild temperatures (by Tucson Standards at least)
crisp mornings, albeit shorter days. Reminders that we are approaching the
largest cycling event in Tucson, the El Tour de Tucson.
GABA is once again leading the El Tour de Tucson Training rides on both sides of
town, and this year will prove to be the biggest El Tour yet for a couple
reasons.
First, this is the 25th Anniversary of the El Tour de Tucson. It’s hard to
believe, but 25 years ago next month, 198 people followed a novel idea and
signed up to ride the perimeter of Tucson. Around the city?? Who thought this
up?? Thanks Richard! Now, here we are, twenty-five years later, and there are
still a few people around, like Ted Eazer who can make the claim that they rode
the FIRST El Tour de Tucson. The good news is Ted is going to ride the 25th as
well, along with a handful of people who have ridden them all. WOW!
While a lot was made of the funding challenges faced by PBAA, Tucson as a whole
stepped forward with offers to help. In the end, the University Medical Center
came forward with a commitment which will afford financial stability to El Tour
for the next several years. This is huge, not only for the cycling community,
but the entire Tucson Region. THANKS UMC.
Second, the League of American Bicyclists is holding its annual rally in Tucson
this year in conjunction with El Tour. While the League is more than 25 years
old (127 years old to be exact), it doesn’t have the local identification that
El Tour does. It is, however, the preeminent cycling organization in the United
States, whose mission statement is almost identical to GABA’s. LAB is absolutely
dedicated to promoting safe cycling, education, and advocacy. This is the
organi-zation that provides the training for the instructors who are currently
teaching all the safety classes being offered by Pima County. If you haven’t yet
taken these classes, you can get all the info you need to sign up at (520)
243-2453 or at www.dot.pima.gov/ tpcbac/safetyclasses.htm. I can absolutely
guaran-tee, you will not be disappointed.
The Silver Anniversary El Tour, and the LAB will make for the busiest fall
cycling fare ever. There will be a lot of activities associated with the LAB
Rally, and the usual fare of events tied to the El Tour de Tucson. Special
Events like these provide record numbers of participants, and the lowest numbers
I have seen projected are all over 10,000 riders! What an unbelievable event to
be a part of!
One last, and very important thought. Every year we complete the El Tour
registration and inevitably arrive at the line for “contributions” or donations.
This is such a special year, maybe it’s a good time for a special contribution
to Tu Nidito, or any of the other worthy charities. Not only will it make you
feel good, and give you those warm fuzzies, it’s absolutely the right thing to
do.
Be Careful, Ride Safe, and Enjoy
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Classes conducted by L.A.B. League Cycling Instructors and
sponsored by Pima County and the City of Tucson.
For info and to register, contact 243-2453 or www.dotpima.gov/tpcbac
Street Savvy, Confidence and safety (Road 1)
This course is perfect as a primer for those cyclists who wish to gain a full
understanding of how to safely operate a bicycle in a variety of situations, The
class includes learning how to perform a quick, easy bicycle safety check, fix a
flat and perform minor mechanical adjustments. It also includes review of state
and local laws, on-bike skills and practice, interactive discussion, and a
student manual. Students will gain confidence knowing that they are riding
legally and safely. Crash avoidance techniques and crash types will be
discussed. Recommended for adults and youth ages 16 and above (age 13-15 with a
parent). This course is a pre-requisite for Road 2. Participants will receive a
free bike light kit, a bike frame pump, insulated water bottle, helmet, tire
levers, and safety reflective tape (a $125 value) -- plus free lunch!
Part 1, Wed, Oct. 3 6:30 to 9:30 PM PBAA 2609 E. Broadway
Part 2, Sat, Oct. 6 7 AM to 1 PM PBAA 2609 E. Broadway
Part 1, Thu, Oct. 11 6:30 to 9:30 PM Udall Park, 7200 E. Tanque Verde
Part 2, Sat, Oct. 13 7 AM to 1 PM Udall Park, 7200 E. Tanque Verde
Street Savvy, Confidence and Safety for Women (Women's Road 1)
This course teaches the same skills as the regular Road 1 class, but in a
supportive all-woman atmosphere. In addition to the regular topics, this class
will delve into the history of women and the bicycle, cover women-specific
bicycle fit, talk about clothing options if you're just not into that flashy
bike-racer look, and touch on personal safety issues while riding alone.
Participants in this class will receive a free bike light kit, a bike frame
pump, insulated water bottle, helmet, safety reflective tape and a surprise gift
(a $125 value) -- plus free lunch!
Part 1, Wed, Oct. 3 6:30 to 9:30 PM Ward IV Council Office, 3202 E. 1st St.
Part 2, Sat, Oct. 6 7 AM to 1 PM Ward IV Council Office, 3202 E. 1st St.
Training and Fitness (Road 2)
For more advanced students who have an understanding of vehicular cycling
principles, as evidenced by successful completion of Road 1, this 10-hour course
includes fitness and physiology, training for longer rides, advanced mechanics,
pace line skills, advanced traffic negotiation, foul weather riding and night
riding. Student manuals included. Participants in this class receive a free
insulated water bottle and a high-quality bike U-lock -- plus free lunch! Also
note class for Road 2 for Women.
Part 1, Thu, Oct. 4 6:30 to 9:30 PM Bicas, 44 West 6th St.
Part 2, Sat, Oct 6 7 Am to 2 PM Bicas, 44 West 6th St.
Road 2 for Women:
Part 1, Wed, Oct. 17 6:30 to 9:30 PM Lew Sorensen Ctr, 11100 E Tanque Verde
Part 2, Sat, Oct. 20 7 AM to 2 PM Lew Sorensen Ctr, 11100 E. Tanque Verde