Monday, April 21, 2008

Patriots Day

As a life long Red Sox fan and runner who has completed my fair share of marathons, the third Monday of April is an exciting and special time for the citizens of Boston. Patriots Day commemorates the Battles of Lexington and Concord, the first battles of the Revolutionary War, and Paul Revere's famous "Midnight Ride."

The celebratory festivities for Patriots Day predominantly revolve around two sporting events, an early morning Red Sox game [usually starting at 11 AM EST], and the annual running of the Boston Marathon.

The former was won by the defending World Champions by a score of 8-3 over the Texas Rangers, and the latter by Dire Tune of Ethiopia, who won the women's division by posting a time of 2:25:25, and Kenya's Robert K. Cheruiyot in the time of 2:07:46.

Coming in at 488th place in a time of 2:50:58 was Lance Armstrong. The seven-time Tour champion qualified [the 36-year-old easily met the qualifying standard for his age bracket; a 3:15 for 35-39-year-old age] for 112th edition of the Boston Marathon by finishing the 2007 ING New York City Marathon in 2:46:43.

According to Armstrong, "Heartbreak Hill" lived up to its reputation.
"They are harder and they do come at a difficult time in the race...You can’t compare the pounding of running with the efficiency of a bicycle. Nothing even comes close to comparing the pain, especially it seems like this course, with a significant amount of downhills that really take their toll on the muscles."
Our Boy Lance (OBL) ran the event with approximately 50 Lance Armstrong Foundation (LAF) teammates in order to raise more funds for a bigger marathon, the battle against cancer. In a twist of irony, the Runner's World correspondent sent to cover OBL's run was none other than his former wife, Kristin Armstrong [who has become quite the runner in her own right].

In the 4 part series interview filmed at the Liberty Hotel on the eve of the event, the two talk about running and marathoning.

Part 1:


Part 2:


Part 3:


Part 4:


If you're thinking that OBL is slowing down in his old age because he was approximately 4 minutes in arrears from his New York Marathon time, forget it. Armstrong plans on running NYC again in the fall and was using the earlier run Boston Marathon as part of his training regimen in the hopes of posting a time under 2:30:00 later this year. He has completed 3 marathons to date.

Sunday, April 20, 2008

High Tech Bike Parking

The United States has arguably made great strides in recent years to create and support the cycling commuter culture.

My former hometown, Chicago, created the McDonald's Cycle Center [yes, the sponsorship of the facility is dripping with irony, and vegetable fat] in 2005 to serve as a hub for downtown commuters. The amazing facility boast secure bicycle parking, showers and lockers, bicycle repair, and bicycle rentals.

But this recent report by James from Japan Probe shows just how far ahead of the curve the Asian and European cultures are when it comes to investing in cycling and the cycling culture.

WATCH this video report on an amazing new bicycle parking system that has opened at Kasai Station in Tokyo.
Customers who come to the station by bicycle need only place their bike on a small platform and hit a few buttons, and the system will automatically store their bike in an underground parking garage that can accommodate 9,400 bikes. When the reporter asks the machine to retrieve his bicycle, it only takes 23 seconds to accomplish the task. The parking system costs 100 yen for a single use, or 1,800 yen for a monthly pass.

Saturday, April 19, 2008

Serving It Up

Bausch Betters Field, Cromwell Solos

The women of Colavita/Sutter Home presented by Cooking Light served it up on the road at the Sea Otter Classic on Friday and Saturday.

On Friday, Dotsie Bausch battled not only the field and extremely windy conditions during the 5 lap, 47 mile NRC Road Race, but also herself.

"We had a headwind on the climbs - it felt like the whole day there were crosswinds and headwinds; it was deceivingly windy," said Bausch of the external conditions, which were greatly overshadowed by her internal condition.

"I felt like crap the whole race. It was one of those days where if you feel really awful and you stand up, you can perform. Some days it can be a total sufferfest and you can win - that's what it was today."

On the final laps, Bausch was the only one to respond to the attack of Ruth Clemence (Simple Green) up the final climb of the penultimate lap, and eventually out kicked her breakaway companion to take the win by three seconds.

Today's SRAM Circuit Race saw Bausch's teammate, Tiffany Cromwell, out kick the field and solo to victory. The 19-year-old from Adelaide, Australia, who took the Garrett Lemire Memorial Grand Prix earlier this week just ahead of teammate Iona Wynter Parks, drove an early break of 10 hard during the 22 lap race.

As ten eventually became two groups of five, Cromwell continued to stay well away from those in the first chase group. She would come to the line at approximately 1:30 ahead of the second place finisher.

Taking second was the recently featured team leader of PROMAN Racing, Shelley Olds. In the sprint, Shelley was able to overcome the remnants of the Cheerwine train [with a fading Laura Van Gilder] and TIBCO's Rachel Heal.


Results
1 Tiffany Cronwell (Colavita Olive Oil/Sutterhome)
2 Shelly Olds (Proman Women's Racing)
3 Rachel Heal (TIBCO)
4 Catherine Cheatley (Cheerwine)
5 Dotsie Bausch (Colavita Olive Oil/Sutterhome)
6 Stacy Marple (Cheerwine)
7 Tina Pic (Colavita Olive Oil/Sutterhome)
8 Brooke Miller (TIBCO)
9 Virginia Perkins (Proman Women's Racing)
10 Laura Van Gilder (Cheerwine)

Photo: Kurt Harvey (bottom)

Team Type 1 Sets Sights On A Stage Win In Georgia

Tybee Island, Ga. — Team Type 1 brings an arsenal to the Tour de Georgia presented by AT&T that is equipped to deliver a stage win during the seven-day, 590-mile (949.5 km) race that begins Monday.

Team Type 1’s roster for the race will be Emile Abraham (TRI), Moises Aldape (MEX), Fabio Calabria (AUS), Glen Chadwick (AUS), Chris Jones (USA), Valeriy Kobzarenko (UKR), Ian MacGregor (USA) and Matt Wilson (AUS).

Two challenging stages in the mountains near the end of the race favor the climbing ability of Chadwick, Jones or Wilson, while the flatter stages in the beginning are best suited for Abraham’s sprinting ability or a breakaway by Aldape, Calabria, Kobzarenko or MacGregor.

“I think it’s a really solid squad as long as everyone stays healthy,” Team Type 1 Sport Director Ed Beamon said. “We should able to contribute to an aggressive race and put on a good show and hunt for some stages.”

The race gets underway Monday at 10:30 a.m. with the 120 riders on 15 teams pedaling 70.4 miles (113.3 km) from Tybee Island to Savannah.

Beamon is no stranger to the Tour de Georgia, having directed a team in each of the past five editions of the race. Five years ago, he coached Henk Vogels to victory on Stage 1 and the Australian strongman held the overall lead for the next three days.

Already this season, Team Type 1 has won five races and compiled 17 podium finishes, including second place overall at the Tour de Taiwan with Shawn Milne and second on the team classification at the Tour of Langkawi.

Team Type 1’s pre-race preparations included reconnaissance rides earlier this week of Stages 5 and 6. Friday’s Stage 5 is the longest of the race, 133.4 miles (214.6 km) from Suwanee to Dahlonega, while Stage 6 finishes with a tortuous climb up Brasstown Bald mountain after 88.4 miles (142.2 km).

“We’ll be ambitious the first two stages, but honestly, our opportunities are a little bit better on the third and fifth stages – which are harder days,” Beamon said. “Those stages will probably lead to some breakaway opportunities.”

Stage 3 is 108.2 miles (174.1 km) from Washington to Gainesville and comes a day before Thursday’s team time trial at the Road Atlanta Grand Prix race track in Braselton. On that day, each team will put all eight of its riders together for four circuits of the hilly, 12-turn track. Two teams will be on the track at a time and the team's time will be taken from the fifth team member across the line.

Milne was unable to be named to the team’s Tour de Georgia roster after breaking his thumb in a crash at the Redlands Bicycle Classic two weeks ago. Also sidelined by injury is Team Type 1 co-founder Phil Southerland, who would have been competing in his “home” state (he lives in Atlanta), Jesse Anthony (Achilles tendon) and Daniel Holt (broken wrist).

“We’ve had injury after injury and after injury,” Beamon said.

Two other Team Type 1 riders who have battled injury or illness will be on the start line Monday. Past Australian national road champion Wilson will see his first racing action since breaking his wrist in a training ride crash March 19 and Glen Chadwick has recovered from a bout with Epstein-Barr Virus following the Tour of Langkawi in February.

Team Type 1 is also inviting fans to visit the team’s sponsor booth Sunday, April 26, at Centennial Park in Atlanta. Part of the Health & Wellness expo, the booth will feature Team Type 1 sponsors Dex 4, Nuun, OmniPod and the American Diabetes Association (ADA) Tour de Cure. Product samples, information and the chance to win prizes will precede a free autograph session by members of Team Type 1 following that day’s race.

Friday, April 18, 2008

On Tap...

On the domestic front, the bulk of the professionals will be at the Sea Otter Classic in beautiful Monterey, California. The cycling festival is in its 18th year and has largely been known as the cycling racing season's kick-off event.

The Sea Otter Classic is a full out celebration of cycling. In some respects, it is what Interbike should aspire to, as Sea Otter has founded its reputation as the go-to event through incorporating every aspect of cycling by holding events "like Dual Slalom and Downhill, a Pro Road Circuit Race, Pro Mountain Bike Cross Country and Short Track, the Invitational Dirt Jump Contest, scenic Road and Mountain Bike Recreational Rides, the Mountain Bike Ride Zone for future pros, a Bike Rodeo, Olympian instructed Cycling Clinics, BMX Demos and now BMX, Adventure Challenge and Super D.

At the center of the non-stop action is the massive Sea Otter Village and Expo, home to the world's largest outdoor consumer bike tradeshow featuring 300 vendors, an international food court and loads of friend and family fun activities. The Sea Otter Classic draws nearly 10,000 professional, amateur, beginner, and recreational athletes; 50,000 spectators; and, more than 250 media representatives from across the globe."

If you're in the area, don't miss out!

For those looking for a smaller and more local venue, please consider some the races listed below.

04/19/2008
Henryville, IN
Munroe Falls, OH
Globe, AZ
Pittsburgh, PA
Chanceford Twp, PA
Encino, CA
Virginia Beach, VA
Menomonee Falls, WI

04/20/2008
Middletown, PA
Gettysburg, OH
Newport News, VA
Torrance, CA
Sugar Grove, IL
Madison, WI
Winston-Salem, NC

Click through to TrueSport.com for some results and photos.



On Tap for the Pro Tour professionals is the first of the Ardennes Classics, Amstel Gold race, on Sunday. Much like the Sunday-Wednesday-Sunday schedule of the cobbled Northern Classics last week, the Ardennes follow the same pattern with Amstel, La Fleche Wallone [Wedenesday], and Liege-Bastogne-Liege [the following Sunday]. The rolling terrain through the Ardennes region usually favors the all-rounder or the sprinter who can get over the hills well.

Look for the usual suspects to appear in
Davide Rebellin (Gerolsteiner), Alejandro Valverde (Caisse d'Epargne), and Oscar Friere (Rabobank).

Past Amstel winner and former Giro d'Italia champion,
Danilo Di Luca (L.P.R.) would have certainly been among the favorites for the Ardennes, but it remains to be seen what type of form Di Luca is in since most of his time has been taken up in the courtroom, where this past Wednesday he was acquitted of doping allegations leveled against him.

Catch it LIVE on
Cycling.tv.

Up The Road
04/25/2008
La Vuelta De Bisbee
Bisbee, AZ

04/26/2008
Willow Time Trial
New Boston, MI
Devil's Punchbowl
Pearblossom, CA
Whitnall Park Spring Classic
Hales Corners, WI
ARIZONA TRACK SERIES
San Diego, CA, AZ
East Canyon Road Race
East Canyon, UT
Wente Vineyards Classic
Livermore, CA
Tour de Moore
Southern Pines, NC
Tour de Ephrata
Lancaster County, PA
SoCal Track Cup #1- Endurance Omnium
Carson, CA
Brown County State Park RR
Nashville, IN

04/27/2008
Spring Valley Road Race
Spring Valley, OH
Chuck Pontius Memorial Criterium
Santa Clarita, CA
Evergreen Park Criterium
Sheboygan, WI
Downtown Sanford Criterium
Sanford, NC

Rock Racing Reveals Rosters For Tour de Georgia, Sea Otter


Culver City, Calif. — Rock Racing will field a line-up for the Tour de Georgia presented by AT&T that includes a world time trial champion, an Olympic gold medalist, Tour de France yellow jersey, polka-dot jersey and white jersey wearers and a three-time U.S. national road race champion who is also a four-time Tour de Georgia stage winner.

Rock Racing’s roster for the seven-day, 600-mile (965 km) stage race includes: Santiago Botero (COL), Tyler Hamilton (USA), Victor Hugo Peña (COL), Freddie Rodriguez (USA), Oscar Sevilla (ESP), Michael Creed (USA), Doug Ollerenshaw (USA) and Kayle Leogrande (USA). Mariano Friedrick is the team director.

Rock Racing Team Owner Michael Ball said the squad is ready despite its late entry into the event. Rock Racing learned of its acceptance into the 15-team field late Tuesday after ProTour entry Saunier Duval-Scott was forced to withdraw due to a rash of injuries.

“The riders selected to represent us are well-suited to the challenging course, particularly the team time trial and decisive climbing stages that come later in the week,” Ball said. “Our line-up is nearly identical to the one that helped us win the overall and King of the Mountains title at Redlands two weeks ago.”

At that race, Botero showed the form that won him the 2002 world time trial, three stages of the Tour de France and the King of the Mountains title at that race in 2000. He soloed to victory on Stage 1 en route to a 54-second margin in the final overall standings. Supporting him were Hamilton (2004 Olympic time trial champion), Peña (wearer of the yellow jersey for three stages of the Tour de France in 2003), Sevilla (winner of the white jersey as best young rider at the Tour de France in 2001) and Rodriguez.

Rodriguez, with four stage wins and nine podium finishes to his credit, is one of the most decorated cyclists in the six-year history of the Tour de Georgia. The three-time U.S. national road race champion has twice won the race’s sprint classification (2003 and 2006) and finished second overall in the race’s inaugural edition (2003). Rodriguez’s most recent stage victory came last year during Stage 6 at Stone Mountain Park.

Ball said Rock Racing is also pleased to be a founding sponsor of the Tour de Georgia, which begins Monday in Tybee Island. As a founding sponsor, Rock Racing joins Wal-Mart, General Electric, the Georgia Department of Economic Development, Blue Cross and others who have pledged to support the race at the highest level.

“My commitment to cycling is long-term and I am proud to support this world-class race which has featured such winners as Lance Armstrong and Floyd Landis,” Ball said. “As a tribute to the state of Georgia and to the rich tradition of this race, we plan something special for the final stage, so stay tuned.”

During the Tour de Georgia, Rock Racing fans will have an opportunity to purchase official team merchandise from Thursday through Sunday at Stages 4 through 7. Rock Racing Trackside is part of the race’s Health & Wellness Expo that is adjacent to each finish venue. Fans can also get autographs from their favorite Rock Racing riders before and after each stage of the race.

On the other side of the country, Rock Racing will field a full eight-rider squad for the Sea Otter Classic SRAM Circuit Race Saturday at the Laguna Seca Raceway in California. On the roster for the 71-mile (114 km) National Race Calendar event are: Rahsaan Bahati (USA), David Clinger (USA), Peter Dawson (AUS), Sergio Hernandez (USA), Kevin Klein (USA), Rudolph “Rudy” Napolitano (USA), Adam Switters (USA) and Jeremiah Wiscovitch (USA).

Rocking The 2008 Tour de Georgia


Fulton County, Ga. — Professional cycling fans will get their wish after all: Rock Racing will be a part of the 2008 Tour de Georgia presented by AT&T after reaching a settlement with race organizer, Medalist Sports, LLC.

The overwhelming favorite pro team in a recent online poll by Bicycling Magazine, Rock Racing will be a part of the six-day, 660-mile stage race that begins Monday, April 21. The team’s roster for the race will be announced in the coming days.

“The fans told us they wanted us to be there,” says Team Owner Michael Ball. “We are pleased that we were able to work with Medalist to come to a mutually beneficial decision. Now the race will truly field the best of the best of international and domestic pro cycling teams which will only build on the momentum created for domestic cycling at the Tour of California.”

Today’s decision was made after ProTour team Saunier Duval-Scott announced they would not be racing due to numerous injuries of key riders. Rock Racing had filed an injunction earlier this month to be allowed entry into the race.

A hearing in the case was scheduled for earlier today but the two parties settled out of court.

Ball said a flood of e-mails, letters and phone calls from fans in support of the team could not be ignored.

“The team is ready to race. Santiago Botero’s win and the team’s performance at Redlands is a clear indication of what to expect next week in Georgia,” said Ball.

Rock Racing’s Botero convincingly won the Redlands Bicycle Classic by 54 seconds in his first ever race in the United States. In capturing the overall, Botero also won the King of the Mountains classification and one stage of the four-day race.

At the Amgen Tour of California in February, Rock Racing was equally impressive by scoring seven top 10 finishes during the seven-stage, 650-mile race. To date in 2008, the team has won six races and registered 15 podium finishes.

Roubaix Perspectives

I'd be remiss if I didn't mention Tornado Tom Boonen's victory at Paris-Roubaix before the week ended. We wouldn't be much of a cycling site if we didn't.

Perhaps our lack of mentioning his win this past Sunday is a product of his seeming dominance in the northern Spring Classics. His favorite status has many of us in the cycling world expecting him to win. But the fact is, this was only Boonen's second victory at the Hell of the North. [I say "only" not to diminish what an accomplishment it is to win even one P-R, but because it really does seem as if he practically owns the cobbled races].

Nonetheless, it is quite an accomplishment for the 27-year-old, which is made even more impressive given the media scrutiny he constantly faces.

"Sometimes I simply don't get it why particular journalists keep on trying to focus on the bad things and leave the good things aside. I was a very young rider when I sort of appeared from nowhere and everyone in the press was happy about my efforts and results. However, when things go not according to plan, they try and write you down."

The price of stardom, I guess?

For fans of the Spring Classics, it looks as if we may be in the midst of the type of Classics "golden age" when men like [Eddy] Merckx, [Francesco] Moser, and [Roger] De Vlaeminck battled on the cobbles. Sunday's podium resemblance to that of 2006, with Boonen (age 27), Fabian Cancellara (age 27), and Alessandro Ballan (age 28) on it, looks to be the harbinger of titanic tooth-and-nail clashes for years to come.

Thursday, April 17, 2008

TRIPLE Exclusive - An Interview with Shelley Olds


For those in the Northern California and Track cycling communities the name, Shelley Olds, is a familiar one. As part of PROMAN Racing, Shelley has been a major contributor in capturing back-to-back Northern California/Nevada Cycling Association (NCNCA) Women’s Premiere series team titles, while on the track she was identified by USA Cycling as one of the next up and coming talents on the National level.

Surprisingly, Shelley’s entry into the sport of cycling came about in a less than traditional manner. Her adeptness in running saw Shelley gravitate toward the soccer field early on. On the pitch, Shelley had a distinguished career at Roanoke College in Virginia; one which saw her named captain of the Maroons in consecutive years along with being named “Player of the Year.” Shortly after graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology, she moved out West. The move prompted her to take up other athletic endeavors and through a bit of coaxing Shelley found herself on a bicycle, on the back of a tandem.

Shelley’s competitiveness and aggressive riding style belie her congenial smile and unassuming beginning in the sport. With a breakout performance at last year’s Nature Valley Grand Prix, where she placed 6th overall amongst the top riders in the American Women’s peloton, she has quickly moved her name onto the recognizable list. But, it is on the velodrome where the 28-year-old is truly becoming a household name. Shelley placed in the top ten in her disciplines, the Points Race and Scratch, during last year’s US National Championships and she is currently ranked in the top 100 by the UCI in both events.

In my conversation with Shelley Olds, we reminisce about her athletic past, determine if she can dance, and explore her cycling ambitions as she helps others to aspire to their own.

Granny’s 30 (G): You're originally from Massachusetts. So let's just get this one out of the way, better dancer, you or Jonathan Papelbon?

Shelley Olds (SO): That’s a tough one. It depends on your definition of dancing. Papelbon’s probably a little more creative and outgoing with his moves than I am.

G: All right, let’s say out at a club or bar and not the Riverdance he showed on the mound or the Dancing with the Stars routine he pulled out for Mike Lowell’s charity during Spring Training?

SO: O.k. I’d like to think I am the better dancer, but I certainly admire Papelbon for his free-spirit and ability to win when it’s all on the line.

G: What position did you play in soccer?

SO: Center Mid-field and Striker

G: Which did you favor, the creativity and distribution of center mid or the attacking style of a striker?

SO: I started at the striker position and loved being the “go-to” girl for scoring. As the season’s passed, I became naturally drawn to the center mid-field position. From this position, I was able to score, defend, attack, and basically run all over the field. I loved the control and leadership that this position gave me and I had the endurance to cover the field because of my background in running.

G: Does that type of mentality play into the cyclist you are now and how you position yourself in races?

SO: Absolutely. My career as a soccer player definitely shaped me into the athlete I am today. I am incredibly honored to be a leader for my team both on and off the bike. Also, the fitness I gained from all those years of soccer translated very well over to the bike.

G: Who were your athletic heroes [role models] growing up?

SO: The “91ers” of the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team.

G: Any favorites from that team?

SO: Brandi Chastain, Mia Hamm, Julie Foudy, and Joy Fawcett.

G: You were introduced to cycling by riding on the back of a tandem, did you eventually work your way up to the front of the tandem or did you just get your own bike?

SO: I’ve never ridden on the front of the tandem, but I would be into it if I could find someone that would be brave enough to stoke.

G: How did you get into racing? Was it something you took to like a "duck to water" or did cycling fill a competitive void after soccer?

SO: Cycling definitely filled a competitive void in my life after college ended and I moved from the East to the West Coast. My boyfriend is an avid cyclist who I met shortly after moving out to California. He insisted that I try the tandem, then the mountain bike, then track racing, road racing, and cross. It didn’t take long before I was hooked on every one of them.

G: Road or Track?

SO: I am fond of them both, but my training is mostly geared towards racing on the track.

G: Crits or Sprint Events?

SO: I’m not much of a match sprinter, but I think it’s important to learn the tactics involved in match sprints. I am a big fan of crits. They are similar to the endurance events on the track. I like the shorter, high-intensity races where there is never a dull moment.

G: Much of your recent success has been on the track, do you enjoy the sprint or endurance events…individual or team events? Which do you feel are your best events?

SO: I prefer the mass start endurance events, the Points Race and the Scratch Race. I do like the pursuits, both individual and team, but I have primarily focused on the mass start races.

G: Is there anyone on the track or road that you look up to or admire?

SO: Becky Quinn is the person I admire most on the track. She is the smartest racer I have ever seen or raced with. I love how competitive and consistent she is on the bike. I have been fortunate to race with her multiple times throughout my career and she has taught me so much about the sport. Marianne Vos is also someone I, (and probably many other women), admire. I like her versatility and the fact that she dominates in road, cross, and track. I too like to race all three disciplines, but I find it much harder to excel in all three of them than she does.

G: What's your favorite velodrome or track venue? Which do you prefer, shorter track with higher banking or longer with less banking?

SO: I prefer indoor tracks with a higher banking. The more banking there is, the more you are able to utilize the track to gain or scrub speed and it makes for a faster, more dynamic race. I have only raced on 6 tracks, but I would say my favorite track was in Sydney, Australia. It had a very authentic feel to it and the crowds were great. The track in Beijing had just been built for the 2008 Olympic Games, so it was brand new and very fast. Also, the opportunity to race on the track that will host the Olympic Games was very meaningful to me.

G: How are you at the Madison?

SO: I am working on it. It’s definitely something I want to learn and become good at, but it takes time. The coaches at our local track, Hellyer Velodrome, have put a weekly emphasis on teaching all riders how to ride a Madison. It’s been very helpful.

G: Have you raced any Keirin or motor-paced races?

SO: Sure. I’ve done a couple of Keirin races locally and some non-sanctioned races that had a motor to keep the pace at a steady race speed. I do a lot of training behind the motor during the track season. I really enjoy motor-pacing on the track, despite the suffering that is involved.

G: What gear ratios do you normally run for training…for racing?

SO: My training gears are usually lower than race gear or varied throughout the workout. Training on the track requires a lot of patience and the ability to change your gears multiple times in one workout. A typical workout would include 3 sets of intervals and each set would use a different gear. One under-gear, one race gear, and one over-gear. My race gear changes depending on the speed of the track I am racing on and whether it is indoor or outdoor, but it’s usually somewhere between 90 and 94 inches.


G: What is your top end speed?

SO: It depends on how big the gear is. I have never measured my top end speed. It would be interesting to find out though.

G: Do you feel that you are a better cyclist on the road because of racing on the track, or vice versa?

SO: I believe, without question that riding on the track has made me a better rider on the road. It’s good to have an engine on the track, which you develop by riding on the road, but there are so many things you learn on the track that you take for granted on the road. Some examples are pedal efficiency, bike handling, positioning, and leg speed. Each of these skills translates very well over to the road and can definitely make you a better all-around cyclist.

G: For the novice, who wants to learn how to race, where would you suggest they start out first…on the track or on the road?

SO: The road bike is much easier to learn on because you have much more control over it with brakes and several gears to choose from. The track bike can be awkward, even for a seasoned rider. On the other hand, riding on the track can be less intimidating because it is an enclosed learning environment. It is nice because you don’t really need to know how to change a flat or what route you are going to ride that day. This can be scary for new beginners who want to go out and ride on their own, but are intimidated by being so far from home.

G: What's been your most memorable time on a bike…your most forgettable?

SO: The most memorable time on the bike for me was Stage 1 of the 2007 Nature Valley Grand Prix. I bridged up to a breakaway of 8 women representing each of the strongest teams in the race. I finished in 2nd place and won the sprinter’s jersey. It was my first big NRC Stage race and it was an amazing feeling to get a result like that. I just remember how genuinely happy I was. I finally felt like I deserved to be riding in the big leagues.

My most forgettable time on my bike would be any time that I have crashed and followed that crash up with a trip to the hospital. One particular crash stands out. I was racing my first UCI Cross Race and I had not even completed one lap of the course yet. When I approached the most technical part of the course, I crashed and both dislocated and fractured my finger. I tried to get back up and ride, but my race was over. I couldn’t hold the handle bars. I just remember being so excited about doing the race and then so disappointed when it only lasted 5 minutes because of a minor injury that prevented me from finishing the race.

G: What is appealing about women's cycling relative to men's cycling? Why do you think men's cycling still takes center stage over women's? What do you think should change in women's cycling to get people more interested and excited about it?

SO: Men’s cycling is exciting because they race full throttle from the gun. Women are more tactical. The problem with the men is that it’s so predictable. The same guys win each week. How exciting is it to watch the same guy win the Tour de France 7 years in a row? In a women’s race anyone can have their day, the breaks can stick, and the underdogs can win. Most of the big teams have 1, maybe 2 clear leaders, and the rest of the playing field is very even. Women’s cycling is pure. Most of the women in the peloton have professional careers outside of cycling and family’s to take care of, and most can not afford to live off of their cycling abilities. I feel like we share a common bond in that we all make tremendous sacrifices to race our bikes because we truly love the sport, not because we are getting paid to do it. I just think we need to market the sport better and show people what women are made of. It’s our responsibility to make it exciting, attract a fan base, become role-models, and put on a show for the crowds by racing as hard as we can every time we suit up for a race.

G: What's one thing that most people don't know about you?

SO: I love live music. I have taken several road trips in my life across the country to see my favorite bands perform. I have seen most of the U.S. this way.

G: Are we talking “Dead Heading” road trips for months on end, or just to see your favorite bands perform? And what are your favorite bands?

SO: Never for months at a time, maybe weeks, but only during breaks from school or over the summer. Some of my favorite bands are Phish, SCI, Government Mule, The Dead, DMB, Dylan, Hendrix, Doors, Cash, Galactic, K. Williams, etc. The list goes on and on. I like so many different genres of music too. I just like music much better when it’s live.

G: What are your aspirations as a cyclist?

SO: My dream since childhood has always been to represent my country in the Olympic Games. I am working very hard towards pursuing that dream in the 2012 London Games in the Points Race. I am extremely driven and focused on my ultimate goal and I am not afraid to put it all out there on the line because it’s something that I am truly passionate about.

G: PROMAN Racing has been very successful over the past two years and has really grown in stature. How did you get started with PROMAN Racing? How have they helped to nuture your dream?

SO: I met our team manager, Niki Cranmer, through my boyfriend. He grew up in Marin, California, where the team is based. I have become very good friends with Niki and the rest of the team. I feel very comfortable knowing that I am doing something I love everyday with people that I really care about and that I believe genuinely care about me. I think the dynamic of our team and the bond that we all have with each other is what has allowed us to grow as much as we have. Niki is the most selfless, hard-working, and genuine women I have ever met and she is the reason why many of the women on our team are able to pursue our dreams. The PROMAN Racing Team is unique because we all respect one another so much. We each have different individual goals and this team supports us and allows us to pursue them, whatever they may be.

G: Your bio stated that you're pursuing a Master's in Health Care Administration. What are your aspirations in life?

SO: I am actually no longer in graduate school. I currently have a full-time job as a Sales Manager for a Wireless Retail Company. I am also coaching the Stanford University Women’s Cycling Team, which I truly love. I like to take life one day at a time. I intend to have my own business someday where I can help young aspiring athlete’s pursue their dreams and give back to the community of bike racers what they have given to me.

G: As a coach, if there is one lesson or bit of wisdom that you could impart to your charges, what would it be?

SO: Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, but be persistent about learning from them. Always observe and absorb as much wisdom as you can from those who have been there before you. Ask questions, take risks, and believe in yourself. Every failure is one step closer to success. Be proud. Be humble. Be grateful. Smile and enjoy the ride.

Photos: Rob Evans (first through fourth)

Friday, April 11, 2008

On Tap...

A Sunday In Hell
As Dante passes through the gates of hell in The Divine Comedy there is an inscription that reads Lasciate ogne speranza, voi ch'intrate, or roughly translated "Abandon all hope, ye who enter here.”

Such an inscription would be fitting for the start line at Compiegne for this Sunday’s Paris-Roubaix. The race, in its 103rd edition, has reached almost mythic proportions through its written and visual recounting. Nicknamed l'enfer du Nord, or the Hell of the North, sometime after World War I because of the visual after effects of the Great War along its course, Roubaix is one of cycling’s monuments.

With the fabled cobble stoned sectors, the deep ruts along the course, and the ever-present chance of inclement weather [the forecast for this Sunday is cold and rainy], the analogy to Dante’s Inferno is perhaps fitting. Riders who hone their bodies and perfect their technique year round to simply go fast are slowed to a crawl by bad weather, numerous punctures, and pile-ups. That certainly sounds like cycling hell.

Start List

Follow the action LIVE on Cycling.tv or via the internet on Cyclingnews.com.


Local Flavors
Head out to participate or watch some of these local races this weekend in select regions of the country.

04/11/2008
Madera, CA
San Diego, CA

04/12/2008
Mount Joy, PA
Lincoln, NE
Waterford, MI
Chesapeake, VA
Phoenix, AZ
Tooele, UT
North East, PA

04/13/2008
Lynchburg, OH
Hampton, VA
Superior, AZ
Madison, WI
Cuyahoga Falls, OH
Ojai, CA
Aurburn, IN

Click through to TrueSport.com for some results and photos.


Up The Road
04/17/2008
Monterey, CA
Marshall, NC

04/19/2008
Henryville, IN
Munroe Falls, OH
Globe, AZ
Pittsburgh, PA
Chanceford Twp, PA
Encino, CA
Virginia Beach, VA
Menomonee Falls, WI

04/20/2008
Middletown, PA
Gettysburg, OH
Newport News, VA
Torrance, CA
Sugar Grove, IL
Madison, WI
Winston-Salem, NC

Inaugural Chicago Criterium Announced

Having resided in the Second City for the majority of my adult life, I was particularly excited when rumors of a professional cycling event in downtown Chicago began to circulate. More details of the event have finally been released.

From Cyclingnews.com:
"Chicago, Illinois, mayor Richard M. Daley has welcomed cycling's elite to Grant Park on Chicago's lakefront for the city's inaugural Chicago Criterium on Sunday, July 27. Racing will begin at 7am and continue through the day. The total prize money is $40,000 with $25,000 of that marked for the Pro Category 1& 2 race, the final race of the day starting at 2.25pm .

Spectators will have the opportunity to witness the race from several route locations including the grandstand at the start/finish area located on Columbus Drive in front of Buckingham Fountain (Columbus and Balbo). A sports expo, sponsor booths and vendors inside Grant Park have also been announced.

The Chicago Criterium starst on Columbus Drive heading north to East Jackson Boulevard, south on Michigan Avenue, east on Balbo Avenue, then back to Columbus Drive.

Course Map

For registration information, a complete race schedule and prizes visit www.chicagocriterium.us."

Trips for Kids Brings its Bicycle Thrift Shop to Sea Otter Marketplace Expo

TFK's Bicycle Thrift Shop booth to sell donated bicycle parts, clothing and accessories to Sea Otter attendees and participants

San Rafael, Calif. - April 11, 2008 -Trips for Kids (TFK) proudly announces its attendance at this year's Sea Otter Marketplace Expo selling new and used donated merchandise from its Re-Cyclery Bike Thrift Shop. Its affordable bike parts, clothing, and accessories will be available at booth #138 on Friday, April 18 through Sunday, April 20 at the Laguna Seca Raceway in Monterey, Calif.

"We invite all of our friends and supporters to come and shop with us at the Expo. You'll find a wide selection of new and used clothing, parts and accessories that have been donated from manufacturers and cyclists," said Marilyn Price, founder and director of Trips for Kids. "Prices will be low, including $5 bins and 2 for 1 deals. Be ready to stock up for yourself and don't forget gifts for friends. By shopping with us, you not only get a bargain for yourself but you help the kids too!"

This year marks the fourth year of attendance for Trips for Kid at Sea Otter Marketplace Expo. Every year, this venue typically generates over $4,000 in proceeds to support TFK programs. All proceeds from the sale go to benefit Trips for Kids programs which include daylong mountain biking adventures, Earn-a-Bike programs and support for its 60 chapters across North America.

This sale and others like it are made possible through generous product and monetary donations from bicycle manufacturers and organization supporters.

In addition to buying cycling parts and products at the Sea Otter Marketing Place Expo, interested individuals are invited to visit the Trips for Kids Re-Cyclery Bike Thrift Shop, located at 610 Fourth Street, San Rafael, Calif. The shop is open every Tuesday through Friday, 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. For more information about Trips for Kids, please visit www.tripsforkids.org or call Marilyn Price at (415) 458-2986.

Thursday, April 10, 2008

Oh Yeah, I'm There

State Farm Insurance's latest advertising campaign, Intersections, is both poignant and clever. The spots feature various individuals, standing on a red dot, at a certain intersection of their life, such as a groom faced with "...here comes the bride meets...here comes all her stuff. Oh Yeah, I'm There!"



However, a few weeks ago, our friend of the blog (FOB) Kathleen sent me the link to State Farm's latest Intersection commercial titled "Fuel," which has drawn the ire of a few in the cycling community. "It makes us look like freaks" as one person put it.



Although probably not intended, in State Farm's attempt to draw attention to the current plight of most Americans, in between a struggling economy and increased gas prices, the commercial does make light of the commuter culture of cycling. It is easy to see where some would be livid in the assumption that being on two wheels is somehow lower in status than on being on four, "that place where you're swapping four wheels for two."

But rather than take offense, commuters, and cyclists in general, should instead revel in the fact that they are self sufficient, self sustaining, and oil non-dependent machines. Commuters have long since traded in four wheels for two not because they lack the necessary means to keep up with the exorbitant price of fuel, but because they recognized the benefit not only to their own well being but also to the planet's.

What commuters and cyclists could probably take offense to in this commercial is the neophyte way in which the subject dresses [this was most likely intended to show that the gentleman has just made the transition to two wheels].

As another one of our FOB, Pip, pointed out, "I'm more concerned with his Seinfeld shoes." You know, the whiter than white tennis/running shoes that Jerry always wore, the pair that only Mr. Bevilacqua would be proud of wearing.

My greatest concern is the choice of shorts that the gentleman is wearing, which is duly noted by his co-worker's sarcastic commentary, "Nice pants Jim!"

As a cyclist, I'm not offended that the company/commercial takes an easily laid out swipe at us for wearing Lycra. I have long since gotten over the supposed embarrassment one should feel for wearing the "tools of the trade."

No, what concerns me most is the color choice of the biking shorts that they have an African-American male wearing. Do I need to remind people why red cycling shorts/bibs are a bad idea for men [case in point, the Polish cycling team]?


I thought not!

As a cyclist who has State Farm Insurance, where am I at?

I'm where riding a 14-year old bike meets having only enough money to upgrade components.

I'm where a 39-year old engine meets racing in a Cat 4-5 race because there aren't enough people in the Master's category.

Oh Yeah, I'm There!

Syncros' Latest All Mountain Components to Make Consumer Debut at Sea Otter Classic

With new wheelset, seatpost and saddle lines for hardcore mountain bikers, Syncros is geared up for the April 17-20 festival in Monterey, Calif.

SAN CARLOS, Calif. - April 10, 2008 - Syncros today announced it will showcase new products from its All Mountain (AM), Freeride (FR) and Freakin' Light (FL) component lines while exhibiting at the Sea Otter Classic, April 17-20, in Monterey, Calif. Festival attendees will get a chance to see and touch the new Syncros AM 29er wheelset, one-bolt alloy seatpost, AM & FL saddle models and latest grunge graphic designs for the FL, AM and FR product lines in booth #738.

"We look forward to showing the latest designs from our Syncros products and getting feedback from our core consumers at Sea Otter," said Steve Parke, general manager and vice president of marketing for Syncros. "For the particular rider who demands maximum durability and strength from the wheelset or the 'just right' amount of comfort in the saddle, we invite attendees to come take a look at these latest Syncros releases."

Additions to the Syncros lines include:

AM 29er Wheelset
  • Syncros DS 28 sleeved and eyeleted rims for maximized rim strength
  • Syncros Bead Lock System allows riders to run lower pressure for a tubeless-like ride
  • Syncros FL hubs provide front end stiffness for steering control and unparalleled durability
AM Pedal
  • Tough nylon/carbon fiber pedal body for high impact strength and durability
  • Larger pedal platform provides extra foot support
  • Shimano™ or Crankbrothers™ cleat compatible
AM One-Bolt Alloy Seatpost
  • Patented one-bolt clamp system with reinforcing ribs
  • Side bolt access for easy saddle positioning
  • 2014 alloy provides higher strength-to-weight ratio than 6000 series
AM & FL Saddle Models
  • Composite saddle base with 35 percent carbon gives strength and forgiveness
  • Chrome-moly and titanium rails for strength and proper elasticity for bumpy sections
In addition to the products listed above, Syncros will also have samples of the 2009 "grunge style" graphics for each of the Freeride (FR), All Mountain (AM) and Freakin' Light (FL) product lines. In keeping with the Syncros legacy of purpose-built, strong, lightweight bike components, the red, black, white and gray tattoo-style artwork differentiates each line with its own bold mark.

For more information about the Syncros products on display at the Sea Otter Classic, please contact Chip Smith at 801.523.3730 or csmith@soarcomm.com.

Wednesday, April 09, 2008

Freire First


Oscar Freire (Rabobank) became the first Spaniard to win the semi-Classic Gent-Wevelgem taking the victory in a bunch sprint.

MORE:
- Velonews: Overall: Freire Wins Ghent-Wevelgem
- Cyclingnews: Freire Makes History


Many Truths In Jest
Last week, I joked around in a faux dialogue about Lance Armstrong's new Austin bike shop, Mellow Johnny's, not carrying Lemond bikes. In reality it will soon be all Trek bike stores that don't carry the bikes, nor make them, as Trek has pulled the plug on their 13-year relationship with Greg Lemond.

MORE:
- Bike Radar: Trek Ends Relationship With Greg Lemond
- Cyclingnews: Trek and Lemond at Loggerheads
- Velonews: Trek Announces An End to Deal With Greg Lemond
- Trek Website: Full Lemond v. Trek Legal Documents [pdf]

Photo: Reuters

Flanders: Betrayal or Circumstance?


During his tenure at US Postal/Discovery Channel, Stijn Devolder (Quick Step - Innergetic) was somewhere in-between having immense talent and harnessing it. With his definitive move off the front this past Sunday to take the 92nd edition of the Ronde van Vlaanderen, it looks as if Devolder has finally been able to mate the two.

The current Belgian champion has always been a personal favorite because of his attacking style [would Hincapie have won K-B-K in 2005 without Devolder’s unrelenting attacks on Boonen?] and his espousement of wearing Belgian knee warmers [see inset; buffed to a true glossy embrocated finish] even in the nastiest conditions.

But Devolder’s win this past Sunday was surprising, both in its decisiveness and occurrence.

Like most Belgians, Devolder dreamed of winning the Classics, but he was actually brought over to Quick Step in the off season to support team leader, Tom Boonen, in the one-day races, and to be a GC contender in the Grand Tours.

From Tom Boonen's sound bite after the race, it sounded as if Devolder had failed to follow the team's plan for the day [and reneged on his contract].

"I had the legs to win the race, but the tactics in the race prevented me from showing that," said Boonen. "He (Devolder) was supposed to serve as a launch pad for me, but the way things developed meant the whole scenario changed."

But was it truly a betrayal of the cycling kind or simply a circumstance of even the best laid plans falling by the wayside as the race unfolded?

From all accounts, those in the lead pack were well aware and even "fearful" of Boonen's form and good legs, as most were either afraid to attack too early or chase down Devolder once he went off the front for fear of a Tornado touching down in Flanders.

Once Devolder went away for the final time, it was Boonen who played the good teammate by sequestering his desire for victory and following the cardinal rule of not chasing down a teammate in the lead [and potentially help others come forward to win the day].

In the end, it was Devolder who covered the 264 kms fastest. The only betrayal that could have been surmised from this year's Ronde was that to Stijn Devolder himself if he had indeed sat up and not gone for the win.

MORE:
- Cyclingnews: Arndt Takes Flanders High Road
- Velonews: Favorites Have Regrets After Flanders


With Teammates Like These Who Needs Enemies...

Boonen's comments following this year's Flanders were reminiscent of George Hincapie's following the 2006 edition of the same race. But in 2006, Hincapie had more than a legitimate argument with then Discovery teammate Leif Hoste.

Below are some of the more egregious betrayals on the road.

2006 Ronde van Vlaanderen
Boonen beat Hoste in a two-up sprint finish with George Hincapie easily slotting into third.

Hincapie had been US Postal/Discovery Channel's team leader for the Classics for quite some time. The plan that day was to pull for George, but it was Hoste who went away and worked with Boonen up to the line. Hincapie was gracious in defeat but his disappointment was clearly noticeable.

"I'm a bit disappointed because we didn't win. Hoste played his card and that's alright. Sadly, my legs felt better than ever but I couldn't show it. In the pursuit, Bettini covered every move the others made. After 260 kilometres, everything is possible. If you look to my sprint, you'll see that I'm a few bike lengths ahead of the others."

Why is this considered a betrayal? Once Hoste and Boonen were away, Hoste could have easily sat on his wheel and refused to work. But he worked with Boonen, and took the more than superior sprinter to the line with him, along with his minuscule chance for the win.

2002 Vuelta a Espana - Stage 15
With Aitor Gonzalez lying in second overall just one second behind Oscar Sevilla, rumours began to fly about a rivalry between the pair, especially with Gonzalez set to leave Kelme at the end of the year.

On Stage 15, Sevilla ran into difficulty on the steep slopes of the Angliru. While both riders refused to acknowledge a rivalry, and stated that they were more focused on holding off the riders behind them on GC, Gonzalez began to force the pace even as his team leader began to drift steadily backwards.

The move by Gonzalez aided the other favorites, as "Roberto Heras and Joseba Beloki moved to the front of the group, along with Francesco Casagrande, who briefly took over the pace-setting from Gonzalez. Within moments, however, US Postal's Heras accelerated with 6km to left to climb, including some of the steepest portions of the climb. Only Gonzalez could muster the strength to try to follow, and he himself was put in difficulty in no time."

Gonzalez ended up with the overall and Sevilla came in fourth, 3.26 in arrears.

Why is this considered a betrayal? Sevilla was Kelme's leader after Heras had moved on to US Postal. It was only Sevilla's lack of time trialling skill that prevented him from winning the race the previous year as he lost the overall on the final stage, an ITT, to Angel Casero.

1986 Tour de France
In 1985, a young and ambitious Greg Lemond was prevented [and even lied to] by La Vie Claire team management from taking his chances for an overall victory. After the race, team leader Bernard Hinault promised ["as he had bled for me, so I will bleed for him."] the American support in the future.

That promised was quickly superseded by Hinault's ambition for a 5th Maillot Jaune the following year as The Badger attacked relentlessly in the mountains. The turmoil between the two caused a divisiveness among teammates with half riding for Lemond and the others riding for Hinault.

Lemond prevailed despite the Frenchman's best efforts to dissuade him.

Photos: Reuters (top); Wielernieuws.be (inset)

Ritchey Break-Away Bicycles Travel to the 18th Annual Sea Otter Classic

Ritchey to exhibit two new Break-Away bike framesets and various new components at one of the nation's largest bicycle festivals

SAN CARLOS, Calif. - April 9, 2008 - Bicycle component company Ritchey Design announced today it will showcase the two newest framesets in the Break-Away line of bicycles at the Sea Otter Classic, April 17-20 in Monterey, Calif. Ritchey will be located in booth #728 by team parking in the event sponsor area.

The two newest models, the steel single speed road and full titanium mountain framesets, continue to round out the Break-Away line which now offers four road, two cross and one mountain bike models. When fully assembled, these bikes match the performance standards of non-travel bikes.

"Ritchey has seen an enormous increase in the demand for and popularity of adventure travel and Break-Away bicycles and framesets," said Steve Parke, general manager and vice president of marketing for Syncros. "When disassembled, these bikes fit in a 9x27x30 inch travel case, making it an easy fit with airline check in procedures or the back of a compact rental car. Regardless of the model, there is no excuse for leaving your bike at home and not getting a ride in while on a business trip or vacation."

In addition to the latest Break-Away models, Ritchey will also have the following new components on display:

WCS 4 Axis Stem
  • 3D-Net forged, 2014 aluminum alloy for lightweight durability and improved strength-to-weight ratio
  • Specially-designed 4-bolt faceplate controls flex and distributes clamping forces across a larger area
  • Available in the NEW wet white finish
  • Used by HealthNet presented by Maxxis and Tibco Women's Race Team
WCS Echelon Road Pedal
  • Forged alloy, low-profile body and chrome-moly axle results in a lightweight, power transfer efficient pedal
  • Tension adjustable, nylon/carbon claw provides ease of pedal entry and exit
Carbon Drop Style TT Base Bar
  • Full carbon, 3K Carbon bar provides durability with minimal additional weight
  • Non-slip sand textured clip-on clamping areas for lower torque clamp security and wear
  • Compatible with most clip-on bars, provides multiple set up options to conform to any riders' needs
WCS Handlebars with Unidirectional Finish (originally launched at Taipei Cycle Show)
  • Produced maximum durability during fatigue testing
  • Provides more uniform look than carbon ply
  • Available for mountain and road bikes
WCS Carbon Logic II Road Bars
  • Unique drop and reach dimensions for each width of bar
  • Benefits hand position for brake lever access and high speed descents
  • Uses Ritchey's Fit Logic design philosophy for custom bike fitting
Z Max Premonition Mountain Bike Tire
  • New square block tread pattern designed to increase tire grip while shedding mud well
  • Designed with Ritchey VFA (Vector Force Analysis) for optimal knob orientation
For more detailed information about the Ritchey products on display at the Sea Otter Classic, please contact Chip Smith at 801.523.3730 or csmith@soarcomm.com.

Redlands - Stage Three

Botero Rocks Redlands With Decisive Victory

Redlands, Calif. — Rock Racing used a simple strategy on the way to sealing Santiago Botero’s overall victory at the Redlands Bicycle Classic.

Like they have been for every road stage, Rock Racing rode at the front throughout Sunday’s 91-mile (138 km) Beaver Medical Group Sunset Road Race. The demonstration of flawless teamwork successfully protected the 54-second lead Botero had gained while soloing to victory on Stage 1 on Friday in Beaumont.

By reeling in a number of breakaways during 12 laps of the challenging 6.2-mile (10 km) Sunset Loop circuit, Rock Racing guaranteed the race would end in a field sprint and preserve Botero’s lead.

The result was Botero’s first-ever win in the United States and the first overall victory for Rock Racing at a stage race in the team’s one-year history. Botero also took home the red jersey of best climber in the four-day race.

“Our victory here is undeniably positive for cycling,” Rock Racing Team Owner Michael Ball said. “What we did this weekend and what we have tried to do as a brand and as a team is good for the sport and even better for the fans.”

Chris Baldwin (Toyota-United Pro Cycling Team) finished second overall and Burke Swindlehurst (Bissell Pro Cycling) was third, 1:06 behind Botero.

Botero said he never felt his lead was in jeopardy – even when Jeff Louder (BMC Pro Cycling Team) and Ben Jacques-Maynes (Bissell) were building more than a minute’s lead halfway through the race. Louder later joined with Peter Stetina (Slipstream-Chipotle) to keep the pressure on Rock. But gradually, the boys in venom-green-and-black brought it back.

“We have a very strong team,” Botero said. “They worked hard for me and for that I am very thankful. I knew we could pull back any breakaway that tried to get away.”

Rock Racing’s Tyler Hamilton, who fought off the effects of the flu on the final two stages, said the team didn’t come into the first event on the National Race Calendar thinking it was going to be an easy race.

“This was an incredibly strong group of talented teams that would have made an impression on any European field,” Hamilton said. “Hats off to them. I’m proud to be racing in America.”

After Hamilton, Oscar Sevilla and Victor Hugo Peña helped Rock Racing pull back a number of small breakaways on the Sunset Loop, the 30-strong field came onto the streets of Downtown Redlands together. Following five laps of Saturdays’ criterium course, Alejandro Borrajo (Colavita-Sutter Home) won the field sprint ahead of Tony Cruz (BMC) and Rory Sutherland (Health Net presented by Maxxis).

Not everything went according to form on the day, though. Rock Racing’s Fred Rodriguez saw his chances to go for the stage win end when he lost control on a downhill, off-camber right-hand turn where a stream of water trickled across the course and slickened the pavement.

“Unfortunately, it was a situation that could have been avoided,” Rodriguez said while looking over his nearly head-to-toe road rash on his right side. “They should have figured out a way to keep that water off the course in what was already a dangerous turn.”

Pena said the ability to control the race at pivotal moments reminded him of his days of riding for another powerful team, the U.S. Postal Service squad. That squad won the Tour de France and several other major races.

“We are a strong team and as the season goes on, we’ll be teaching some of our younger guys how to do the things that made that team so good,” he said. “We’ll be very good this year.”


Women's Overall Decided on Finale

There was no telling who would hold onto the yellow jersey as the professional women cyclists approached the starting line of the 2008 Redlands Bicycle Classic famous Sunset Road Race starting line. Pure determination was present on every face as the riders started the selective 68-mile course, with circuits in the Sunset Drive hills. For most of the race, two were in front of the field of 20 riders. As they hammered it out through the downtown Redlands finish, Alex Wrubleski of Webcor Builders charged hard across the line to not only claim the final stage victory but also the overall title, beating Mara Abbott of High Road for the overall 2008 Redlands Bicycle Classic win by a slim one second margin.

Leigh Hobson of Cheerwine and Kim Anderson of High Road were second and third on the stage, respectively.

The Stage Three race started in downtown Redlands before it climbed into the Sunset Drive hills for nine laps of approximately seven miles. The pros displayed their super talents as they sped through the corners up and down the sharply graded hills. The biggest battle came to the last few yards of the race as Wrubleski and Abbott put everything on the line for the championship, with Wrubleski edging past Abbott for the win. "We knew what we had to do, but it didn't happen today," reflected Abbott.

Wrubleski's win was pivotal, with the overall balanced on a miniscule gap. Abbott finished second behind Wrubleski and Kat Carroll (Aaron's Cycling) was third inthe overall. Cheerwine took top honors for the overall team winner.

Right after the women's race, Chris Wherry of Toyota United was presented with the Carole King Sportsmanship Award for his representation of extraordinary sportsmanship. "You guys support this race more than so many cities I've raced in," said Wherry. "Thank you, Redlands."

For more information about the 2008 Redlands Bicycle Classic, presented by PossAbilities, including current race results, visit www.redlandsclassic.com.

Photos: Vero Image

Redlands - Stage Two

Redlands, Calif. - Heading into Stage Two of the Redlands Bicycle Classic Rock Racing's Santiago Botero was in the overall lead. Botero held onto his overall lead staying safely in the pack during the criterium formatted race. Jeff Louder (BMC) took home the Stage Two prize, just ahead of Luis Alberto Amaran with Colavita Sutter Home/Cooking Light, and Ivan Dominguez (Toyota United).

For the majority of the 1.2 mile, seven turn downtown Redlands criterium race, sponsored by 1st Centennial Bank/KWB Wealth Managers, a break of four, Curtis Gunn (Successful Living Pro Cycling Team), Shawn Milne (Team Type 1), Louder, and Amaran maintained an 18 second lead on the field. As the pace quickened, the tete de course was reduced to three when Milne clipped his pedal coming out of the second-to-last turn and went headfirst over the handlebars. X-Rays later revealed Milne broke his right thumb at the metacarpal (knuckle) joint.

“I couldn’t believe my misfortune,” Milne said. “I wasn’t the strongest guy in the group, but I was the fastest. So there was a good chance that if I had good position, I probably would have won.”

Dominguez was the beneficiary of Milne's misfortune by taking the field sprint and the final podium spot.

Louder, however, benefitted the most as the day's tactics and race certainly played into his victory. "It was a bit of a cat and mouse game," said Louder. "The rest of the group was coming hard. I led through the last half of the race and was just trying to keep it up. It was a tricky race. I'm not really a sprinter, but this race favors a strong technical rider. I don't have fast legs, but if I get in the lead group, like today, it works."

Aside from phenomenal action on Stage Two, American cycling legend, Scott Moninger, was presented with the 2008 Legends award for his representation of the cycling community, both on and off the field. Redlands Mayor John Harrison introduced the award and Dan Rendler, the 2008 Redlands Bicycle Classic race director introduced Moninger with a summary of his vast accomplishments during his 17 years of racing, including 275 wins, two NRC championships, and two Redlands Bicycle Classic victories. "This race has always been special to me, since 1989," lamented Moninger. "The community support is what makes it what it is. Thanks a lot to Redlands."

Women's Teams Battle on Stage Two Race, Set Up Grand Finale

A mass of wheels settled against each other as the professional women cyclists lined up in downtown Redlands for day three of racing in the Redlands Bicycle Classic. The Stage Two 1.2 mile downtown Redlands criterium race, sponsored by 1st Centennial Bank/KWB Wealth Managers, brought opportunities for riders to push ahead and grab the winning title. 19-year-old rising Swedish star Emilia Fahlin from Team High Road sprinted across the finish line first, with Alex Wrubleski, from Webcor Builders, and Brenda Lyons, from Advil/Chapstick rounding out the top three. Mara Abbott (High Road) maintained her lead in the overall.

The criterium race zipped through downtown Redlands and gave riders technical corners and numerous opportunities for attacks. Place changes and fast paces created an ebb and flow to the race, and left the crowd guessing who would strike the hardest and pull ahead. "This course has a lot of corners and fast laps, which I like," said Fahlin, who was a first time Redlands Bicycle Classic participant. "Everyone talks about this race. It's a big goal for the team." Fahlin fought her way to the end, knowing she had to keep her wheels spinning. "After I took off seconds for the first bonus I was a little tired, so I had to push it."

Mara Abbott, Fahlin's teammate, looked forward to tomorrow's Sunset race closer. "Every year Sunset is a good race, with something unexpected always happening. It's a great course."

For more information about the 2008 Redlands Bicycle Classic, presented by PossAbilities, including current race results, visit www.redlandsclassic.com.

Photo: Leonard Basobas

Monday, April 21, 2008

Patriots Day

As a life long Red Sox fan and runner who has completed my fair share of marathons, the third Monday of April is an exciting and special time for the citizens of Boston. Patriots Day commemorates the Battles of Lexington and Concord, the first battles of the Revolutionary War, and Paul Revere's famous "Midnight Ride."

The celebratory festivities for Patriots Day predominantly revolve around two sporting events, an early morning Red Sox game [usually starting at 11 AM EST], and the annual running of the Boston Marathon.

The former was won by the defending World Champions by a score of 8-3 over the Texas Rangers, and the latter by Dire Tune of Ethiopia, who won the women's division by posting a time of 2:25:25, and Kenya's Robert K. Cheruiyot in the time of 2:07:46.

Coming in at 488th place in a time of 2:50:58 was Lance Armstrong. The seven-time Tour champion qualified [the 36-year-old easily met the qualifying standard for his age bracket; a 3:15 for 35-39-year-old age] for 112th edition of the Boston Marathon by finishing the 2007 ING New York City Marathon in 2:46:43.

According to Armstrong, "Heartbreak Hill" lived up to its reputation.
"They are harder and they do come at a difficult time in the race...You can’t compare the pounding of running with the efficiency of a bicycle. Nothing even comes close to comparing the pain, especially it seems like this course, with a significant amount of downhills that really take their toll on the muscles."
Our Boy Lance (OBL) ran the event with approximately 50 Lance Armstrong Foundation (LAF) teammates in order to raise more funds for a bigger marathon, the battle against cancer. In a twist of irony, the Runner's World correspondent sent to cover OBL's run was none other than his former wife, Kristin Armstrong [who has become quite the runner in her own right].

In the 4 part series interview filmed at the Liberty Hotel on the eve of the event, the two talk about running and marathoning.

Part 1:


Part 2:


Part 3:


Part 4:


If you're thinking that OBL is slowing down in his old age because he was approximately 4 minutes in arrears from his New York Marathon time, forget it. Armstrong plans on running NYC again in the fall and was using the earlier run Boston Marathon as part of his training regimen in the hopes of posting a time under 2:30:00 later this year. He has completed 3 marathons to date.

Sunday, April 20, 2008

High Tech Bike Parking

The United States has arguably made great strides in recent years to create and support the cycling commuter culture.

My former hometown, Chicago, created the McDonald's Cycle Center [yes, the sponsorship of the facility is dripping with irony, and vegetable fat] in 2005 to serve as a hub for downtown commuters. The amazing facility boast secure bicycle parking, showers and lockers, bicycle repair, and bicycle rentals.

But this recent report by James from Japan Probe shows just how far ahead of the curve the Asian and European cultures are when it comes to investing in cycling and the cycling culture.

WATCH this video report on an amazing new bicycle parking system that has opened at Kasai Station in Tokyo.
Customers who come to the station by bicycle need only place their bike on a small platform and hit a few buttons, and the system will automatically store their bike in an underground parking garage that can accommodate 9,400 bikes. When the reporter asks the machine to retrieve his bicycle, it only takes 23 seconds to accomplish the task. The parking system costs 100 yen for a single use, or 1,800 yen for a monthly pass.

Saturday, April 19, 2008

Serving It Up

Bausch Betters Field, Cromwell Solos

The women of Colavita/Sutter Home presented by Cooking Light served it up on the road at the Sea Otter Classic on Friday and Saturday.

On Friday, Dotsie Bausch battled not only the field and extremely windy conditions during the 5 lap, 47 mile NRC Road Race, but also herself.

"We had a headwind on the climbs - it felt like the whole day there were crosswinds and headwinds; it was deceivingly windy," said Bausch of the external conditions, which were greatly overshadowed by her internal condition.

"I felt like crap the whole race. It was one of those days where if you feel really awful and you stand up, you can perform. Some days it can be a total sufferfest and you can win - that's what it was today."

On the final laps, Bausch was the only one to respond to the attack of Ruth Clemence (Simple Green) up the final climb of the penultimate lap, and eventually out kicked her breakaway companion to take the win by three seconds.

Today's SRAM Circuit Race saw Bausch's teammate, Tiffany Cromwell, out kick the field and solo to victory. The 19-year-old from Adelaide, Australia, who took the Garrett Lemire Memorial Grand Prix earlier this week just ahead of teammate Iona Wynter Parks, drove an early break of 10 hard during the 22 lap race.

As ten eventually became two groups of five, Cromwell continued to stay well away from those in the first chase group. She would come to the line at approximately 1:30 ahead of the second place finisher.

Taking second was the recently featured team leader of PROMAN Racing, Shelley Olds. In the sprint, Shelley was able to overcome the remnants of the Cheerwine train [with a fading Laura Van Gilder] and TIBCO's Rachel Heal.


Results
1 Tiffany Cronwell (Colavita Olive Oil/Sutterhome)
2 Shelly Olds (Proman Women's Racing)
3 Rachel Heal (TIBCO)
4 Catherine Cheatley (Cheerwine)
5 Dotsie Bausch (Colavita Olive Oil/Sutterhome)
6 Stacy Marple (Cheerwine)
7 Tina Pic (Colavita Olive Oil/Sutterhome)
8 Brooke Miller (TIBCO)
9 Virginia Perkins (Proman Women's Racing)
10 Laura Van Gilder (Cheerwine)

Photo: Kurt Harvey (bottom)

Team Type 1 Sets Sights On A Stage Win In Georgia

Tybee Island, Ga. — Team Type 1 brings an arsenal to the Tour de Georgia presented by AT&T that is equipped to deliver a stage win during the seven-day, 590-mile (949.5 km) race that begins Monday.

Team Type 1’s roster for the race will be Emile Abraham (TRI), Moises Aldape (MEX), Fabio Calabria (AUS), Glen Chadwick (AUS), Chris Jones (USA), Valeriy Kobzarenko (UKR), Ian MacGregor (USA) and Matt Wilson (AUS).

Two challenging stages in the mountains near the end of the race favor the climbing ability of Chadwick, Jones or Wilson, while the flatter stages in the beginning are best suited for Abraham’s sprinting ability or a breakaway by Aldape, Calabria, Kobzarenko or MacGregor.

“I think it’s a really solid squad as long as everyone stays healthy,” Team Type 1 Sport Director Ed Beamon said. “We should able to contribute to an aggressive race and put on a good show and hunt for some stages.”

The race gets underway Monday at 10:30 a.m. with the 120 riders on 15 teams pedaling 70.4 miles (113.3 km) from Tybee Island to Savannah.

Beamon is no stranger to the Tour de Georgia, having directed a team in each of the past five editions of the race. Five years ago, he coached Henk Vogels to victory on Stage 1 and the Australian strongman held the overall lead for the next three days.

Already this season, Team Type 1 has won five races and compiled 17 podium finishes, including second place overall at the Tour de Taiwan with Shawn Milne and second on the team classification at the Tour of Langkawi.

Team Type 1’s pre-race preparations included reconnaissance rides earlier this week of Stages 5 and 6. Friday’s Stage 5 is the longest of the race, 133.4 miles (214.6 km) from Suwanee to Dahlonega, while Stage 6 finishes with a tortuous climb up Brasstown Bald mountain after 88.4 miles (142.2 km).

“We’ll be ambitious the first two stages, but honestly, our opportunities are a little bit better on the third and fifth stages – which are harder days,” Beamon said. “Those stages will probably lead to some breakaway opportunities.”

Stage 3 is 108.2 miles (174.1 km) from Washington to Gainesville and comes a day before Thursday’s team time trial at the Road Atlanta Grand Prix race track in Braselton. On that day, each team will put all eight of its riders together for four circuits of the hilly, 12-turn track. Two teams will be on the track at a time and the team's time will be taken from the fifth team member across the line.

Milne was unable to be named to the team’s Tour de Georgia roster after breaking his thumb in a crash at the Redlands Bicycle Classic two weeks ago. Also sidelined by injury is Team Type 1 co-founder Phil Southerland, who would have been competing in his “home” state (he lives in Atlanta), Jesse Anthony (Achilles tendon) and Daniel Holt (broken wrist).

“We’ve had injury after injury and after injury,” Beamon said.

Two other Team Type 1 riders who have battled injury or illness will be on the start line Monday. Past Australian national road champion Wilson will see his first racing action since breaking his wrist in a training ride crash March 19 and Glen Chadwick has recovered from a bout with Epstein-Barr Virus following the Tour of Langkawi in February.

Team Type 1 is also inviting fans to visit the team’s sponsor booth Sunday, April 26, at Centennial Park in Atlanta. Part of the Health & Wellness expo, the booth will feature Team Type 1 sponsors Dex 4, Nuun, OmniPod and the American Diabetes Association (ADA) Tour de Cure. Product samples, information and the chance to win prizes will precede a free autograph session by members of Team Type 1 following that day’s race.

Friday, April 18, 2008

On Tap...

On the domestic front, the bulk of the professionals will be at the Sea Otter Classic in beautiful Monterey, California. The cycling festival is in its 18th year and has largely been known as the cycling racing season's kick-off event.

The Sea Otter Classic is a full out celebration of cycling. In some respects, it is what Interbike should aspire to, as Sea Otter has founded its reputation as the go-to event through incorporating every aspect of cycling by holding events "like Dual Slalom and Downhill, a Pro Road Circuit Race, Pro Mountain Bike Cross Country and Short Track, the Invitational Dirt Jump Contest, scenic Road and Mountain Bike Recreational Rides, the Mountain Bike Ride Zone for future pros, a Bike Rodeo, Olympian instructed Cycling Clinics, BMX Demos and now BMX, Adventure Challenge and Super D.

At the center of the non-stop action is the massive Sea Otter Village and Expo, home to the world's largest outdoor consumer bike tradeshow featuring 300 vendors, an international food court and loads of friend and family fun activities. The Sea Otter Classic draws nearly 10,000 professional, amateur, beginner, and recreational athletes; 50,000 spectators; and, more than 250 media representatives from across the globe."

If you're in the area, don't miss out!

For those looking for a smaller and more local venue, please consider some the races listed below.

04/19/2008
Henryville, IN
Munroe Falls, OH
Globe, AZ
Pittsburgh, PA
Chanceford Twp, PA
Encino, CA
Virginia Beach, VA
Menomonee Falls, WI

04/20/2008
Middletown, PA
Gettysburg, OH
Newport News, VA
Torrance, CA
Sugar Grove, IL
Madison, WI
Winston-Salem, NC

Click through to TrueSport.com for some results and photos.



On Tap for the Pro Tour professionals is the first of the Ardennes Classics, Amstel Gold race, on Sunday. Much like the Sunday-Wednesday-Sunday schedule of the cobbled Northern Classics last week, the Ardennes follow the same pattern with Amstel, La Fleche Wallone [Wedenesday], and Liege-Bastogne-Liege [the following Sunday]. The rolling terrain through the Ardennes region usually favors the all-rounder or the sprinter who can get over the hills well.

Look for the usual suspects to appear in
Davide Rebellin (Gerolsteiner), Alejandro Valverde (Caisse d'Epargne), and Oscar Friere (Rabobank).

Past Amstel winner and former Giro d'Italia champion,
Danilo Di Luca (L.P.R.) would have certainly been among the favorites for the Ardennes, but it remains to be seen what type of form Di Luca is in since most of his time has been taken up in the courtroom, where this past Wednesday he was acquitted of doping allegations leveled against him.

Catch it LIVE on
Cycling.tv.

Up The Road
04/25/2008
La Vuelta De Bisbee
Bisbee, AZ

04/26/2008
Willow Time Trial
New Boston, MI
Devil's Punchbowl
Pearblossom, CA
Whitnall Park Spring Classic
Hales Corners, WI
ARIZONA TRACK SERIES
San Diego, CA, AZ
East Canyon Road Race
East Canyon, UT
Wente Vineyards Classic
Livermore, CA
Tour de Moore
Southern Pines, NC
Tour de Ephrata
Lancaster County, PA
SoCal Track Cup #1- Endurance Omnium
Carson, CA
Brown County State Park RR
Nashville, IN

04/27/2008
Spring Valley Road Race
Spring Valley, OH
Chuck Pontius Memorial Criterium
Santa Clarita, CA
Evergreen Park Criterium
Sheboygan, WI
Downtown Sanford Criterium
Sanford, NC

Rock Racing Reveals Rosters For Tour de Georgia, Sea Otter


Culver City, Calif. — Rock Racing will field a line-up for the Tour de Georgia presented by AT&T that includes a world time trial champion, an Olympic gold medalist, Tour de France yellow jersey, polka-dot jersey and white jersey wearers and a three-time U.S. national road race champion who is also a four-time Tour de Georgia stage winner.

Rock Racing’s roster for the seven-day, 600-mile (965 km) stage race includes: Santiago Botero (COL), Tyler Hamilton (USA), Victor Hugo Peña (COL), Freddie Rodriguez (USA), Oscar Sevilla (ESP), Michael Creed (USA), Doug Ollerenshaw (USA) and Kayle Leogrande (USA). Mariano Friedrick is the team director.

Rock Racing Team Owner Michael Ball said the squad is ready despite its late entry into the event. Rock Racing learned of its acceptance into the 15-team field late Tuesday after ProTour entry Saunier Duval-Scott was forced to withdraw due to a rash of injuries.

“The riders selected to represent us are well-suited to the challenging course, particularly the team time trial and decisive climbing stages that come later in the week,” Ball said. “Our line-up is nearly identical to the one that helped us win the overall and King of the Mountains title at Redlands two weeks ago.”

At that race, Botero showed the form that won him the 2002 world time trial, three stages of the Tour de France and the King of the Mountains title at that race in 2000. He soloed to victory on Stage 1 en route to a 54-second margin in the final overall standings. Supporting him were Hamilton (2004 Olympic time trial champion), Peña (wearer of the yellow jersey for three stages of the Tour de France in 2003), Sevilla (winner of the white jersey as best young rider at the Tour de France in 2001) and Rodriguez.

Rodriguez, with four stage wins and nine podium finishes to his credit, is one of the most decorated cyclists in the six-year history of the Tour de Georgia. The three-time U.S. national road race champion has twice won the race’s sprint classification (2003 and 2006) and finished second overall in the race’s inaugural edition (2003). Rodriguez’s most recent stage victory came last year during Stage 6 at Stone Mountain Park.

Ball said Rock Racing is also pleased to be a founding sponsor of the Tour de Georgia, which begins Monday in Tybee Island. As a founding sponsor, Rock Racing joins Wal-Mart, General Electric, the Georgia Department of Economic Development, Blue Cross and others who have pledged to support the race at the highest level.

“My commitment to cycling is long-term and I am proud to support this world-class race which has featured such winners as Lance Armstrong and Floyd Landis,” Ball said. “As a tribute to the state of Georgia and to the rich tradition of this race, we plan something special for the final stage, so stay tuned.”

During the Tour de Georgia, Rock Racing fans will have an opportunity to purchase official team merchandise from Thursday through Sunday at Stages 4 through 7. Rock Racing Trackside is part of the race’s Health & Wellness Expo that is adjacent to each finish venue. Fans can also get autographs from their favorite Rock Racing riders before and after each stage of the race.

On the other side of the country, Rock Racing will field a full eight-rider squad for the Sea Otter Classic SRAM Circuit Race Saturday at the Laguna Seca Raceway in California. On the roster for the 71-mile (114 km) National Race Calendar event are: Rahsaan Bahati (USA), David Clinger (USA), Peter Dawson (AUS), Sergio Hernandez (USA), Kevin Klein (USA), Rudolph “Rudy” Napolitano (USA), Adam Switters (USA) and Jeremiah Wiscovitch (USA).

Rocking The 2008 Tour de Georgia


Fulton County, Ga. — Professional cycling fans will get their wish after all: Rock Racing will be a part of the 2008 Tour de Georgia presented by AT&T after reaching a settlement with race organizer, Medalist Sports, LLC.

The overwhelming favorite pro team in a recent online poll by Bicycling Magazine, Rock Racing will be a part of the six-day, 660-mile stage race that begins Monday, April 21. The team’s roster for the race will be announced in the coming days.

“The fans told us they wanted us to be there,” says Team Owner Michael Ball. “We are pleased that we were able to work with Medalist to come to a mutually beneficial decision. Now the race will truly field the best of the best of international and domestic pro cycling teams which will only build on the momentum created for domestic cycling at the Tour of California.”

Today’s decision was made after ProTour team Saunier Duval-Scott announced they would not be racing due to numerous injuries of key riders. Rock Racing had filed an injunction earlier this month to be allowed entry into the race.

A hearing in the case was scheduled for earlier today but the two parties settled out of court.

Ball said a flood of e-mails, letters and phone calls from fans in support of the team could not be ignored.

“The team is ready to race. Santiago Botero’s win and the team’s performance at Redlands is a clear indication of what to expect next week in Georgia,” said Ball.

Rock Racing’s Botero convincingly won the Redlands Bicycle Classic by 54 seconds in his first ever race in the United States. In capturing the overall, Botero also won the King of the Mountains classification and one stage of the four-day race.

At the Amgen Tour of California in February, Rock Racing was equally impressive by scoring seven top 10 finishes during the seven-stage, 650-mile race. To date in 2008, the team has won six races and registered 15 podium finishes.

Roubaix Perspectives

I'd be remiss if I didn't mention Tornado Tom Boonen's victory at Paris-Roubaix before the week ended. We wouldn't be much of a cycling site if we didn't.

Perhaps our lack of mentioning his win this past Sunday is a product of his seeming dominance in the northern Spring Classics. His favorite status has many of us in the cycling world expecting him to win. But the fact is, this was only Boonen's second victory at the Hell of the North. [I say "only" not to diminish what an accomplishment it is to win even one P-R, but because it really does seem as if he practically owns the cobbled races].

Nonetheless, it is quite an accomplishment for the 27-year-old, which is made even more impressive given the media scrutiny he constantly faces.

"Sometimes I simply don't get it why particular journalists keep on trying to focus on the bad things and leave the good things aside. I was a very young rider when I sort of appeared from nowhere and everyone in the press was happy about my efforts and results. However, when things go not according to plan, they try and write you down."

The price of stardom, I guess?

For fans of the Spring Classics, it looks as if we may be in the midst of the type of Classics "golden age" when men like [Eddy] Merckx, [Francesco] Moser, and [Roger] De Vlaeminck battled on the cobbles. Sunday's podium resemblance to that of 2006, with Boonen (age 27), Fabian Cancellara (age 27), and Alessandro Ballan (age 28) on it, looks to be the harbinger of titanic tooth-and-nail clashes for years to come.

Thursday, April 17, 2008

TRIPLE Exclusive - An Interview with Shelley Olds


For those in the Northern California and Track cycling communities the name, Shelley Olds, is a familiar one. As part of PROMAN Racing, Shelley has been a major contributor in capturing back-to-back Northern California/Nevada Cycling Association (NCNCA) Women’s Premiere series team titles, while on the track she was identified by USA Cycling as one of the next up and coming talents on the National level.

Surprisingly, Shelley’s entry into the sport of cycling came about in a less than traditional manner. Her adeptness in running saw Shelley gravitate toward the soccer field early on. On the pitch, Shelley had a distinguished career at Roanoke College in Virginia; one which saw her named captain of the Maroons in consecutive years along with being named “Player of the Year.” Shortly after graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology, she moved out West. The move prompted her to take up other athletic endeavors and through a bit of coaxing Shelley found herself on a bicycle, on the back of a tandem.

Shelley’s competitiveness and aggressive riding style belie her congenial smile and unassuming beginning in the sport. With a breakout performance at last year’s Nature Valley Grand Prix, where she placed 6th overall amongst the top riders in the American Women’s peloton, she has quickly moved her name onto the recognizable list. But, it is on the velodrome where the 28-year-old is truly becoming a household name. Shelley placed in the top ten in her disciplines, the Points Race and Scratch, during last year’s US National Championships and she is currently ranked in the top 100 by the UCI in both events.

In my conversation with Shelley Olds, we reminisce about her athletic past, determine if she can dance, and explore her cycling ambitions as she helps others to aspire to their own.

Granny’s 30 (G): You're originally from Massachusetts. So let's just get this one out of the way, better dancer, you or Jonathan Papelbon?

Shelley Olds (SO): That’s a tough one. It depends on your definition of dancing. Papelbon’s probably a little more creative and outgoing with his moves than I am.

G: All right, let’s say out at a club or bar and not the Riverdance he showed on the mound or the Dancing with the Stars routine he pulled out for Mike Lowell’s charity during Spring Training?

SO: O.k. I’d like to think I am the better dancer, but I certainly admire Papelbon for his free-spirit and ability to win when it’s all on the line.

G: What position did you play in soccer?

SO: Center Mid-field and Striker

G: Which did you favor, the creativity and distribution of center mid or the attacking style of a striker?

SO: I started at the striker position and loved being the “go-to” girl for scoring. As the season’s passed, I became naturally drawn to the center mid-field position. From this position, I was able to score, defend, attack, and basically run all over the field. I loved the control and leadership that this position gave me and I had the endurance to cover the field because of my background in running.

G: Does that type of mentality play into the cyclist you are now and how you position yourself in races?

SO: Absolutely. My career as a soccer player definitely shaped me into the athlete I am today. I am incredibly honored to be a leader for my team both on and off the bike. Also, the fitness I gained from all those years of soccer translated very well over to the bike.

G: Who were your athletic heroes [role models] growing up?

SO: The “91ers” of the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team.

G: Any favorites from that team?

SO: Brandi Chastain, Mia Hamm, Julie Foudy, and Joy Fawcett.

G: You were introduced to cycling by riding on the back of a tandem, did you eventually work your way up to the front of the tandem or did you just get your own bike?

SO: I’ve never ridden on the front of the tandem, but I would be into it if I could find someone that would be brave enough to stoke.

G: How did you get into racing? Was it something you took to like a "duck to water" or did cycling fill a competitive void after soccer?

SO: Cycling definitely filled a competitive void in my life after college ended and I moved from the East to the West Coast. My boyfriend is an avid cyclist who I met shortly after moving out to California. He insisted that I try the tandem, then the mountain bike, then track racing, road racing, and cross. It didn’t take long before I was hooked on every one of them.

G: Road or Track?

SO: I am fond of them both, but my training is mostly geared towards racing on the track.

G: Crits or Sprint Events?

SO: I’m not much of a match sprinter, but I think it’s important to learn the tactics involved in match sprints. I am a big fan of crits. They are similar to the endurance events on the track. I like the shorter, high-intensity races where there is never a dull moment.

G: Much of your recent success has been on the track, do you enjoy the sprint or endurance events…individual or team events? Which do you feel are your best events?

SO: I prefer the mass start endurance events, the Points Race and the Scratch Race. I do like the pursuits, both individual and team, but I have primarily focused on the mass start races.

G: Is there anyone on the track or road that you look up to or admire?

SO: Becky Quinn is the person I admire most on the track. She is the smartest racer I have ever seen or raced with. I love how competitive and consistent she is on the bike. I have been fortunate to race with her multiple times throughout my career and she has taught me so much about the sport. Marianne Vos is also someone I, (and probably many other women), admire. I like her versatility and the fact that she dominates in road, cross, and track. I too like to race all three disciplines, but I find it much harder to excel in all three of them than she does.

G: What's your favorite velodrome or track venue? Which do you prefer, shorter track with higher banking or longer with less banking?

SO: I prefer indoor tracks with a higher banking. The more banking there is, the more you are able to utilize the track to gain or scrub speed and it makes for a faster, more dynamic race. I have only raced on 6 tracks, but I would say my favorite track was in Sydney, Australia. It had a very authentic feel to it and the crowds were great. The track in Beijing had just been built for the 2008 Olympic Games, so it was brand new and very fast. Also, the opportunity to race on the track that will host the Olympic Games was very meaningful to me.

G: How are you at the Madison?

SO: I am working on it. It’s definitely something I want to learn and become good at, but it takes time. The coaches at our local track, Hellyer Velodrome, have put a weekly emphasis on teaching all riders how to ride a Madison. It’s been very helpful.

G: Have you raced any Keirin or motor-paced races?

SO: Sure. I’ve done a couple of Keirin races locally and some non-sanctioned races that had a motor to keep the pace at a steady race speed. I do a lot of training behind the motor during the track season. I really enjoy motor-pacing on the track, despite the suffering that is involved.

G: What gear ratios do you normally run for training…for racing?

SO: My training gears are usually lower than race gear or varied throughout the workout. Training on the track requires a lot of patience and the ability to change your gears multiple times in one workout. A typical workout would include 3 sets of intervals and each set would use a different gear. One under-gear, one race gear, and one over-gear. My race gear changes depending on the speed of the track I am racing on and whether it is indoor or outdoor, but it’s usually somewhere between 90 and 94 inches.


G: What is your top end speed?

SO: It depends on how big the gear is. I have never measured my top end speed. It would be interesting to find out though.

G: Do you feel that you are a better cyclist on the road because of racing on the track, or vice versa?

SO: I believe, without question that riding on the track has made me a better rider on the road. It’s good to have an engine on the track, which you develop by riding on the road, but there are so many things you learn on the track that you take for granted on the road. Some examples are pedal efficiency, bike handling, positioning, and leg speed. Each of these skills translates very well over to the road and can definitely make you a better all-around cyclist.

G: For the novice, who wants to learn how to race, where would you suggest they start out first…on the track or on the road?

SO: The road bike is much easier to learn on because you have much more control over it with brakes and several gears to choose from. The track bike can be awkward, even for a seasoned rider. On the other hand, riding on the track can be less intimidating because it is an enclosed learning environment. It is nice because you don’t really need to know how to change a flat or what route you are going to ride that day. This can be scary for new beginners who want to go out and ride on their own, but are intimidated by being so far from home.

G: What's been your most memorable time on a bike…your most forgettable?

SO: The most memorable time on the bike for me was Stage 1 of the 2007 Nature Valley Grand Prix. I bridged up to a breakaway of 8 women representing each of the strongest teams in the race. I finished in 2nd place and won the sprinter’s jersey. It was my first big NRC Stage race and it was an amazing feeling to get a result like that. I just remember how genuinely happy I was. I finally felt like I deserved to be riding in the big leagues.

My most forgettable time on my bike would be any time that I have crashed and followed that crash up with a trip to the hospital. One particular crash stands out. I was racing my first UCI Cross Race and I had not even completed one lap of the course yet. When I approached the most technical part of the course, I crashed and both dislocated and fractured my finger. I tried to get back up and ride, but my race was over. I couldn’t hold the handle bars. I just remember being so excited about doing the race and then so disappointed when it only lasted 5 minutes because of a minor injury that prevented me from finishing the race.

G: What is appealing about women's cycling relative to men's cycling? Why do you think men's cycling still takes center stage over women's? What do you think should change in women's cycling to get people more interested and excited about it?

SO: Men’s cycling is exciting because they race full throttle from the gun. Women are more tactical. The problem with the men is that it’s so predictable. The same guys win each week. How exciting is it to watch the same guy win the Tour de France 7 years in a row? In a women’s race anyone can have their day, the breaks can stick, and the underdogs can win. Most of the big teams have 1, maybe 2 clear leaders, and the rest of the playing field is very even. Women’s cycling is pure. Most of the women in the peloton have professional careers outside of cycling and family’s to take care of, and most can not afford to live off of their cycling abilities. I feel like we share a common bond in that we all make tremendous sacrifices to race our bikes because we truly love the sport, not because we are getting paid to do it. I just think we need to market the sport better and show people what women are made of. It’s our responsibility to make it exciting, attract a fan base, become role-models, and put on a show for the crowds by racing as hard as we can every time we suit up for a race.

G: What's one thing that most people don't know about you?

SO: I love live music. I have taken several road trips in my life across the country to see my favorite bands perform. I have seen most of the U.S. this way.

G: Are we talking “Dead Heading” road trips for months on end, or just to see your favorite bands perform? And what are your favorite bands?

SO: Never for months at a time, maybe weeks, but only during breaks from school or over the summer. Some of my favorite bands are Phish, SCI, Government Mule, The Dead, DMB, Dylan, Hendrix, Doors, Cash, Galactic, K. Williams, etc. The list goes on and on. I like so many different genres of music too. I just like music much better when it’s live.

G: What are your aspirations as a cyclist?

SO: My dream since childhood has always been to represent my country in the Olympic Games. I am working very hard towards pursuing that dream in the 2012 London Games in the Points Race. I am extremely driven and focused on my ultimate goal and I am not afraid to put it all out there on the line because it’s something that I am truly passionate about.

G: PROMAN Racing has been very successful over the past two years and has really grown in stature. How did you get started with PROMAN Racing? How have they helped to nuture your dream?

SO: I met our team manager, Niki Cranmer, through my boyfriend. He grew up in Marin, California, where the team is based. I have become very good friends with Niki and the rest of the team. I feel very comfortable knowing that I am doing something I love everyday with people that I really care about and that I believe genuinely care about me. I think the dynamic of our team and the bond that we all have with each other is what has allowed us to grow as much as we have. Niki is the most selfless, hard-working, and genuine women I have ever met and she is the reason why many of the women on our team are able to pursue our dreams. The PROMAN Racing Team is unique because we all respect one another so much. We each have different individual goals and this team supports us and allows us to pursue them, whatever they may be.

G: Your bio stated that you're pursuing a Master's in Health Care Administration. What are your aspirations in life?

SO: I am actually no longer in graduate school. I currently have a full-time job as a Sales Manager for a Wireless Retail Company. I am also coaching the Stanford University Women’s Cycling Team, which I truly love. I like to take life one day at a time. I intend to have my own business someday where I can help young aspiring athlete’s pursue their dreams and give back to the community of bike racers what they have given to me.

G: As a coach, if there is one lesson or bit of wisdom that you could impart to your charges, what would it be?

SO: Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, but be persistent about learning from them. Always observe and absorb as much wisdom as you can from those who have been there before you. Ask questions, take risks, and believe in yourself. Every failure is one step closer to success. Be proud. Be humble. Be grateful. Smile and enjoy the ride.

Photos: Rob Evans (first through fourth)

Friday, April 11, 2008

On Tap...

A Sunday In Hell
As Dante passes through the gates of hell in The Divine Comedy there is an inscription that reads Lasciate ogne speranza, voi ch'intrate, or roughly translated "Abandon all hope, ye who enter here.”

Such an inscription would be fitting for the start line at Compiegne for this Sunday’s Paris-Roubaix. The race, in its 103rd edition, has reached almost mythic proportions through its written and visual recounting. Nicknamed l'enfer du Nord, or the Hell of the North, sometime after World War I because of the visual after effects of the Great War along its course, Roubaix is one of cycling’s monuments.

With the fabled cobble stoned sectors, the deep ruts along the course, and the ever-present chance of inclement weather [the forecast for this Sunday is cold and rainy], the analogy to Dante’s Inferno is perhaps fitting. Riders who hone their bodies and perfect their technique year round to simply go fast are slowed to a crawl by bad weather, numerous punctures, and pile-ups. That certainly sounds like cycling hell.

Start List

Follow the action LIVE on Cycling.tv or via the internet on Cyclingnews.com.


Local Flavors
Head out to participate or watch some of these local races this weekend in select regions of the country.

04/11/2008
Madera, CA
San Diego, CA

04/12/2008
Mount Joy, PA
Lincoln, NE
Waterford, MI
Chesapeake, VA
Phoenix, AZ
Tooele, UT
North East, PA

04/13/2008
Lynchburg, OH
Hampton, VA
Superior, AZ
Madison, WI
Cuyahoga Falls, OH
Ojai, CA
Aurburn, IN

Click through to TrueSport.com for some results and photos.


Up The Road
04/17/2008
Monterey, CA
Marshall, NC

04/19/2008
Henryville, IN
Munroe Falls, OH
Globe, AZ
Pittsburgh, PA
Chanceford Twp, PA
Encino, CA
Virginia Beach, VA
Menomonee Falls, WI

04/20/2008
Middletown, PA
Gettysburg, OH
Newport News, VA
Torrance, CA
Sugar Grove, IL
Madison, WI
Winston-Salem, NC

Inaugural Chicago Criterium Announced

Having resided in the Second City for the majority of my adult life, I was particularly excited when rumors of a professional cycling event in downtown Chicago began to circulate. More details of the event have finally been released.

From Cyclingnews.com:
"Chicago, Illinois, mayor Richard M. Daley has welcomed cycling's elite to Grant Park on Chicago's lakefront for the city's inaugural Chicago Criterium on Sunday, July 27. Racing will begin at 7am and continue through the day. The total prize money is $40,000 with $25,000 of that marked for the Pro Category 1& 2 race, the final race of the day starting at 2.25pm .

Spectators will have the opportunity to witness the race from several route locations including the grandstand at the start/finish area located on Columbus Drive in front of Buckingham Fountain (Columbus and Balbo). A sports expo, sponsor booths and vendors inside Grant Park have also been announced.

The Chicago Criterium starst on Columbus Drive heading north to East Jackson Boulevard, south on Michigan Avenue, east on Balbo Avenue, then back to Columbus Drive.

Course Map

For registration information, a complete race schedule and prizes visit www.chicagocriterium.us."

Trips for Kids Brings its Bicycle Thrift Shop to Sea Otter Marketplace Expo

TFK's Bicycle Thrift Shop booth to sell donated bicycle parts, clothing and accessories to Sea Otter attendees and participants

San Rafael, Calif. - April 11, 2008 -Trips for Kids (TFK) proudly announces its attendance at this year's Sea Otter Marketplace Expo selling new and used donated merchandise from its Re-Cyclery Bike Thrift Shop. Its affordable bike parts, clothing, and accessories will be available at booth #138 on Friday, April 18 through Sunday, April 20 at the Laguna Seca Raceway in Monterey, Calif.

"We invite all of our friends and supporters to come and shop with us at the Expo. You'll find a wide selection of new and used clothing, parts and accessories that have been donated from manufacturers and cyclists," said Marilyn Price, founder and director of Trips for Kids. "Prices will be low, including $5 bins and 2 for 1 deals. Be ready to stock up for yourself and don't forget gifts for friends. By shopping with us, you not only get a bargain for yourself but you help the kids too!"

This year marks the fourth year of attendance for Trips for Kid at Sea Otter Marketplace Expo. Every year, this venue typically generates over $4,000 in proceeds to support TFK programs. All proceeds from the sale go to benefit Trips for Kids programs which include daylong mountain biking adventures, Earn-a-Bike programs and support for its 60 chapters across North America.

This sale and others like it are made possible through generous product and monetary donations from bicycle manufacturers and organization supporters.

In addition to buying cycling parts and products at the Sea Otter Marketing Place Expo, interested individuals are invited to visit the Trips for Kids Re-Cyclery Bike Thrift Shop, located at 610 Fourth Street, San Rafael, Calif. The shop is open every Tuesday through Friday, 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. For more information about Trips for Kids, please visit www.tripsforkids.org or call Marilyn Price at (415) 458-2986.

Thursday, April 10, 2008

Oh Yeah, I'm There

State Farm Insurance's latest advertising campaign, Intersections, is both poignant and clever. The spots feature various individuals, standing on a red dot, at a certain intersection of their life, such as a groom faced with "...here comes the bride meets...here comes all her stuff. Oh Yeah, I'm There!"



However, a few weeks ago, our friend of the blog (FOB) Kathleen sent me the link to State Farm's latest Intersection commercial titled "Fuel," which has drawn the ire of a few in the cycling community. "It makes us look like freaks" as one person put it.



Although probably not intended, in State Farm's attempt to draw attention to the current plight of most Americans, in between a struggling economy and increased gas prices, the commercial does make light of the commuter culture of cycling. It is easy to see where some would be livid in the assumption that being on two wheels is somehow lower in status than on being on four, "that place where you're swapping four wheels for two."

But rather than take offense, commuters, and cyclists in general, should instead revel in the fact that they are self sufficient, self sustaining, and oil non-dependent machines. Commuters have long since traded in four wheels for two not because they lack the necessary means to keep up with the exorbitant price of fuel, but because they recognized the benefit not only to their own well being but also to the planet's.

What commuters and cyclists could probably take offense to in this commercial is the neophyte way in which the subject dresses [this was most likely intended to show that the gentleman has just made the transition to two wheels].

As another one of our FOB, Pip, pointed out, "I'm more concerned with his Seinfeld shoes." You know, the whiter than white tennis/running shoes that Jerry always wore, the pair that only Mr. Bevilacqua would be proud of wearing.

My greatest concern is the choice of shorts that the gentleman is wearing, which is duly noted by his co-worker's sarcastic commentary, "Nice pants Jim!"

As a cyclist, I'm not offended that the company/commercial takes an easily laid out swipe at us for wearing Lycra. I have long since gotten over the supposed embarrassment one should feel for wearing the "tools of the trade."

No, what concerns me most is the color choice of the biking shorts that they have an African-American male wearing. Do I need to remind people why red cycling shorts/bibs are a bad idea for men [case in point, the Polish cycling team]?


I thought not!

As a cyclist who has State Farm Insurance, where am I at?

I'm where riding a 14-year old bike meets having only enough money to upgrade components.

I'm where a 39-year old engine meets racing in a Cat 4-5 race because there aren't enough people in the Master's category.

Oh Yeah, I'm There!

Syncros' Latest All Mountain Components to Make Consumer Debut at Sea Otter Classic

With new wheelset, seatpost and saddle lines for hardcore mountain bikers, Syncros is geared up for the April 17-20 festival in Monterey, Calif.

SAN CARLOS, Calif. - April 10, 2008 - Syncros today announced it will showcase new products from its All Mountain (AM), Freeride (FR) and Freakin' Light (FL) component lines while exhibiting at the Sea Otter Classic, April 17-20, in Monterey, Calif. Festival attendees will get a chance to see and touch the new Syncros AM 29er wheelset, one-bolt alloy seatpost, AM & FL saddle models and latest grunge graphic designs for the FL, AM and FR product lines in booth #738.

"We look forward to showing the latest designs from our Syncros products and getting feedback from our core consumers at Sea Otter," said Steve Parke, general manager and vice president of marketing for Syncros. "For the particular rider who demands maximum durability and strength from the wheelset or the 'just right' amount of comfort in the saddle, we invite attendees to come take a look at these latest Syncros releases."

Additions to the Syncros lines include:

AM 29er Wheelset
  • Syncros DS 28 sleeved and eyeleted rims for maximized rim strength
  • Syncros Bead Lock System allows riders to run lower pressure for a tubeless-like ride
  • Syncros FL hubs provide front end stiffness for steering control and unparalleled durability
AM Pedal
  • Tough nylon/carbon fiber pedal body for high impact strength and durability
  • Larger pedal platform provides extra foot support
  • Shimano™ or Crankbrothers™ cleat compatible
AM One-Bolt Alloy Seatpost
  • Patented one-bolt clamp system with reinforcing ribs
  • Side bolt access for easy saddle positioning
  • 2014 alloy provides higher strength-to-weight ratio than 6000 series
AM & FL Saddle Models
  • Composite saddle base with 35 percent carbon gives strength and forgiveness
  • Chrome-moly and titanium rails for strength and proper elasticity for bumpy sections
In addition to the products listed above, Syncros will also have samples of the 2009 "grunge style" graphics for each of the Freeride (FR), All Mountain (AM) and Freakin' Light (FL) product lines. In keeping with the Syncros legacy of purpose-built, strong, lightweight bike components, the red, black, white and gray tattoo-style artwork differentiates each line with its own bold mark.

For more information about the Syncros products on display at the Sea Otter Classic, please contact Chip Smith at 801.523.3730 or csmith@soarcomm.com.

Wednesday, April 09, 2008

Freire First


Oscar Freire (Rabobank) became the first Spaniard to win the semi-Classic Gent-Wevelgem taking the victory in a bunch sprint.

MORE:
- Velonews: Overall: Freire Wins Ghent-Wevelgem
- Cyclingnews: Freire Makes History


Many Truths In Jest
Last week, I joked around in a faux dialogue about Lance Armstrong's new Austin bike shop, Mellow Johnny's, not carrying Lemond bikes. In reality it will soon be all Trek bike stores that don't carry the bikes, nor make them, as Trek has pulled the plug on their 13-year relationship with Greg Lemond.

MORE:
- Bike Radar: Trek Ends Relationship With Greg Lemond
- Cyclingnews: Trek and Lemond at Loggerheads
- Velonews: Trek Announces An End to Deal With Greg Lemond
- Trek Website: Full Lemond v. Trek Legal Documents [pdf]

Photo: Reuters

Flanders: Betrayal or Circumstance?


During his tenure at US Postal/Discovery Channel, Stijn Devolder (Quick Step - Innergetic) was somewhere in-between having immense talent and harnessing it. With his definitive move off the front this past Sunday to take the 92nd edition of the Ronde van Vlaanderen, it looks as if Devolder has finally been able to mate the two.

The current Belgian champion has always been a personal favorite because of his attacking style [would Hincapie have won K-B-K in 2005 without Devolder’s unrelenting attacks on Boonen?] and his espousement of wearing Belgian knee warmers [see inset; buffed to a true glossy embrocated finish] even in the nastiest conditions.

But Devolder’s win this past Sunday was surprising, both in its decisiveness and occurrence.

Like most Belgians, Devolder dreamed of winning the Classics, but he was actually brought over to Quick Step in the off season to support team leader, Tom Boonen, in the one-day races, and to be a GC contender in the Grand Tours.

From Tom Boonen's sound bite after the race, it sounded as if Devolder had failed to follow the team's plan for the day [and reneged on his contract].

"I had the legs to win the race, but the tactics in the race prevented me from showing that," said Boonen. "He (Devolder) was supposed to serve as a launch pad for me, but the way things developed meant the whole scenario changed."

But was it truly a betrayal of the cycling kind or simply a circumstance of even the best laid plans falling by the wayside as the race unfolded?

From all accounts, those in the lead pack were well aware and even "fearful" of Boonen's form and good legs, as most were either afraid to attack too early or chase down Devolder once he went off the front for fear of a Tornado touching down in Flanders.

Once Devolder went away for the final time, it was Boonen who played the good teammate by sequestering his desire for victory and following the cardinal rule of not chasing down a teammate in the lead [and potentially help others come forward to win the day].

In the end, it was Devolder who covered the 264 kms fastest. The only betrayal that could have been surmised from this year's Ronde was that to Stijn Devolder himself if he had indeed sat up and not gone for the win.

MORE:
- Cyclingnews: Arndt Takes Flanders High Road
- Velonews: Favorites Have Regrets After Flanders


With Teammates Like These Who Needs Enemies...

Boonen's comments following this year's Flanders were reminiscent of George Hincapie's following the 2006 edition of the same race. But in 2006, Hincapie had more than a legitimate argument with then Discovery teammate Leif Hoste.

Below are some of the more egregious betrayals on the road.

2006 Ronde van Vlaanderen
Boonen beat Hoste in a two-up sprint finish with George Hincapie easily slotting into third.

Hincapie had been US Postal/Discovery Channel's team leader for the Classics for quite some time. The plan that day was to pull for George, but it was Hoste who went away and worked with Boonen up to the line. Hincapie was gracious in defeat but his disappointment was clearly noticeable.

"I'm a bit disappointed because we didn't win. Hoste played his card and that's alright. Sadly, my legs felt better than ever but I couldn't show it. In the pursuit, Bettini covered every move the others made. After 260 kilometres, everything is possible. If you look to my sprint, you'll see that I'm a few bike lengths ahead of the others."

Why is this considered a betrayal? Once Hoste and Boonen were away, Hoste could have easily sat on his wheel and refused to work. But he worked with Boonen, and took the more than superior sprinter to the line with him, along with his minuscule chance for the win.

2002 Vuelta a Espana - Stage 15
With Aitor Gonzalez lying in second overall just one second behind Oscar Sevilla, rumours began to fly about a rivalry between the pair, especially with Gonzalez set to leave Kelme at the end of the year.

On Stage 15, Sevilla ran into difficulty on the steep slopes of the Angliru. While both riders refused to acknowledge a rivalry, and stated that they were more focused on holding off the riders behind them on GC, Gonzalez began to force the pace even as his team leader began to drift steadily backwards.

The move by Gonzalez aided the other favorites, as "Roberto Heras and Joseba Beloki moved to the front of the group, along with Francesco Casagrande, who briefly took over the pace-setting from Gonzalez. Within moments, however, US Postal's Heras accelerated with 6km to left to climb, including some of the steepest portions of the climb. Only Gonzalez could muster the strength to try to follow, and he himself was put in difficulty in no time."

Gonzalez ended up with the overall and Sevilla came in fourth, 3.26 in arrears.

Why is this considered a betrayal? Sevilla was Kelme's leader after Heras had moved on to US Postal. It was only Sevilla's lack of time trialling skill that prevented him from winning the race the previous year as he lost the overall on the final stage, an ITT, to Angel Casero.

1986 Tour de France
In 1985, a young and ambitious Greg Lemond was prevented [and even lied to] by La Vie Claire team management from taking his chances for an overall victory. After the race, team leader Bernard Hinault promised ["as he had bled for me, so I will bleed for him."] the American support in the future.

That promised was quickly superseded by Hinault's ambition for a 5th Maillot Jaune the following year as The Badger attacked relentlessly in the mountains. The turmoil between the two caused a divisiveness among teammates with half riding for Lemond and the others riding for Hinault.

Lemond prevailed despite the Frenchman's best efforts to dissuade him.

Photos: Reuters (top); Wielernieuws.be (inset)

Ritchey Break-Away Bicycles Travel to the 18th Annual Sea Otter Classic

Ritchey to exhibit two new Break-Away bike framesets and various new components at one of the nation's largest bicycle festivals

SAN CARLOS, Calif. - April 9, 2008 - Bicycle component company Ritchey Design announced today it will showcase the two newest framesets in the Break-Away line of bicycles at the Sea Otter Classic, April 17-20 in Monterey, Calif. Ritchey will be located in booth #728 by team parking in the event sponsor area.

The two newest models, the steel single speed road and full titanium mountain framesets, continue to round out the Break-Away line which now offers four road, two cross and one mountain bike models. When fully assembled, these bikes match the performance standards of non-travel bikes.

"Ritchey has seen an enormous increase in the demand for and popularity of adventure travel and Break-Away bicycles and framesets," said Steve Parke, general manager and vice president of marketing for Syncros. "When disassembled, these bikes fit in a 9x27x30 inch travel case, making it an easy fit with airline check in procedures or the back of a compact rental car. Regardless of the model, there is no excuse for leaving your bike at home and not getting a ride in while on a business trip or vacation."

In addition to the latest Break-Away models, Ritchey will also have the following new components on display:

WCS 4 Axis Stem
  • 3D-Net forged, 2014 aluminum alloy for lightweight durability and improved strength-to-weight ratio
  • Specially-designed 4-bolt faceplate controls flex and distributes clamping forces across a larger area
  • Available in the NEW wet white finish
  • Used by HealthNet presented by Maxxis and Tibco Women's Race Team
WCS Echelon Road Pedal
  • Forged alloy, low-profile body and chrome-moly axle results in a lightweight, power transfer efficient pedal
  • Tension adjustable, nylon/carbon claw provides ease of pedal entry and exit
Carbon Drop Style TT Base Bar
  • Full carbon, 3K Carbon bar provides durability with minimal additional weight
  • Non-slip sand textured clip-on clamping areas for lower torque clamp security and wear
  • Compatible with most clip-on bars, provides multiple set up options to conform to any riders' needs
WCS Handlebars with Unidirectional Finish (originally launched at Taipei Cycle Show)
  • Produced maximum durability during fatigue testing
  • Provides more uniform look than carbon ply
  • Available for mountain and road bikes
WCS Carbon Logic II Road Bars
  • Unique drop and reach dimensions for each width of bar
  • Benefits hand position for brake lever access and high speed descents
  • Uses Ritchey's Fit Logic design philosophy for custom bike fitting
Z Max Premonition Mountain Bike Tire
  • New square block tread pattern designed to increase tire grip while shedding mud well
  • Designed with Ritchey VFA (Vector Force Analysis) for optimal knob orientation
For more detailed information about the Ritchey products on display at the Sea Otter Classic, please contact Chip Smith at 801.523.3730 or csmith@soarcomm.com.

Redlands - Stage Three

Botero Rocks Redlands With Decisive Victory

Redlands, Calif. — Rock Racing used a simple strategy on the way to sealing Santiago Botero’s overall victory at the Redlands Bicycle Classic.

Like they have been for every road stage, Rock Racing rode at the front throughout Sunday’s 91-mile (138 km) Beaver Medical Group Sunset Road Race. The demonstration of flawless teamwork successfully protected the 54-second lead Botero had gained while soloing to victory on Stage 1 on Friday in Beaumont.

By reeling in a number of breakaways during 12 laps of the challenging 6.2-mile (10 km) Sunset Loop circuit, Rock Racing guaranteed the race would end in a field sprint and preserve Botero’s lead.

The result was Botero’s first-ever win in the United States and the first overall victory for Rock Racing at a stage race in the team’s one-year history. Botero also took home the red jersey of best climber in the four-day race.

“Our victory here is undeniably positive for cycling,” Rock Racing Team Owner Michael Ball said. “What we did this weekend and what we have tried to do as a brand and as a team is good for the sport and even better for the fans.”

Chris Baldwin (Toyota-United Pro Cycling Team) finished second overall and Burke Swindlehurst (Bissell Pro Cycling) was third, 1:06 behind Botero.

Botero said he never felt his lead was in jeopardy – even when Jeff Louder (BMC Pro Cycling Team) and Ben Jacques-Maynes (Bissell) were building more than a minute’s lead halfway through the race. Louder later joined with Peter Stetina (Slipstream-Chipotle) to keep the pressure on Rock. But gradually, the boys in venom-green-and-black brought it back.

“We have a very strong team,” Botero said. “They worked hard for me and for that I am very thankful. I knew we could pull back any breakaway that tried to get away.”

Rock Racing’s Tyler Hamilton, who fought off the effects of the flu on the final two stages, said the team didn’t come into the first event on the National Race Calendar thinking it was going to be an easy race.

“This was an incredibly strong group of talented teams that would have made an impression on any European field,” Hamilton said. “Hats off to them. I’m proud to be racing in America.”

After Hamilton, Oscar Sevilla and Victor Hugo Peña helped Rock Racing pull back a number of small breakaways on the Sunset Loop, the 30-strong field came onto the streets of Downtown Redlands together. Following five laps of Saturdays’ criterium course, Alejandro Borrajo (Colavita-Sutter Home) won the field sprint ahead of Tony Cruz (BMC) and Rory Sutherland (Health Net presented by Maxxis).

Not everything went according to form on the day, though. Rock Racing’s Fred Rodriguez saw his chances to go for the stage win end when he lost control on a downhill, off-camber right-hand turn where a stream of water trickled across the course and slickened the pavement.

“Unfortunately, it was a situation that could have been avoided,” Rodriguez said while looking over his nearly head-to-toe road rash on his right side. “They should have figured out a way to keep that water off the course in what was already a dangerous turn.”

Pena said the ability to control the race at pivotal moments reminded him of his days of riding for another powerful team, the U.S. Postal Service squad. That squad won the Tour de France and several other major races.

“We are a strong team and as the season goes on, we’ll be teaching some of our younger guys how to do the things that made that team so good,” he said. “We’ll be very good this year.”


Women's Overall Decided on Finale

There was no telling who would hold onto the yellow jersey as the professional women cyclists approached the starting line of the 2008 Redlands Bicycle Classic famous Sunset Road Race starting line. Pure determination was present on every face as the riders started the selective 68-mile course, with circuits in the Sunset Drive hills. For most of the race, two were in front of the field of 20 riders. As they hammered it out through the downtown Redlands finish, Alex Wrubleski of Webcor Builders charged hard across the line to not only claim the final stage victory but also the overall title, beating Mara Abbott of High Road for the overall 2008 Redlands Bicycle Classic win by a slim one second margin.

Leigh Hobson of Cheerwine and Kim Anderson of High Road were second and third on the stage, respectively.

The Stage Three race started in downtown Redlands before it climbed into the Sunset Drive hills for nine laps of approximately seven miles. The pros displayed their super talents as they sped through the corners up and down the sharply graded hills. The biggest battle came to the last few yards of the race as Wrubleski and Abbott put everything on the line for the championship, with Wrubleski edging past Abbott for the win. "We knew what we had to do, but it didn't happen today," reflected Abbott.

Wrubleski's win was pivotal, with the overall balanced on a miniscule gap. Abbott finished second behind Wrubleski and Kat Carroll (Aaron's Cycling) was third inthe overall. Cheerwine took top honors for the overall team winner.

Right after the women's race, Chris Wherry of Toyota United was presented with the Carole King Sportsmanship Award for his representation of extraordinary sportsmanship. "You guys support this race more than so many cities I've raced in," said Wherry. "Thank you, Redlands."

For more information about the 2008 Redlands Bicycle Classic, presented by PossAbilities, including current race results, visit www.redlandsclassic.com.

Photos: Vero Image

Redlands - Stage Two

Redlands, Calif. - Heading into Stage Two of the Redlands Bicycle Classic Rock Racing's Santiago Botero was in the overall lead. Botero held onto his overall lead staying safely in the pack during the criterium formatted race. Jeff Louder (BMC) took home the Stage Two prize, just ahead of Luis Alberto Amaran with Colavita Sutter Home/Cooking Light, and Ivan Dominguez (Toyota United).

For the majority of the 1.2 mile, seven turn downtown Redlands criterium race, sponsored by 1st Centennial Bank/KWB Wealth Managers, a break of four, Curtis Gunn (Successful Living Pro Cycling Team), Shawn Milne (Team Type 1), Louder, and Amaran maintained an 18 second lead on the field. As the pace quickened, the tete de course was reduced to three when Milne clipped his pedal coming out of the second-to-last turn and went headfirst over the handlebars. X-Rays later revealed Milne broke his right thumb at the metacarpal (knuckle) joint.

“I couldn’t believe my misfortune,” Milne said. “I wasn’t the strongest guy in the group, but I was the fastest. So there was a good chance that if I had good position, I probably would have won.”

Dominguez was the beneficiary of Milne's misfortune by taking the field sprint and the final podium spot.

Louder, however, benefitted the most as the day's tactics and race certainly played into his victory. "It was a bit of a cat and mouse game," said Louder. "The rest of the group was coming hard. I led through the last half of the race and was just trying to keep it up. It was a tricky race. I'm not really a sprinter, but this race favors a strong technical rider. I don't have fast legs, but if I get in the lead group, like today, it works."

Aside from phenomenal action on Stage Two, American cycling legend, Scott Moninger, was presented with the 2008 Legends award for his representation of the cycling community, both on and off the field. Redlands Mayor John Harrison introduced the award and Dan Rendler, the 2008 Redlands Bicycle Classic race director introduced Moninger with a summary of his vast accomplishments during his 17 years of racing, including 275 wins, two NRC championships, and two Redlands Bicycle Classic victories. "This race has always been special to me, since 1989," lamented Moninger. "The community support is what makes it what it is. Thanks a lot to Redlands."

Women's Teams Battle on Stage Two Race, Set Up Grand Finale

A mass of wheels settled against each other as the professional women cyclists lined up in downtown Redlands for day three of racing in the Redlands Bicycle Classic. The Stage Two 1.2 mile downtown Redlands criterium race, sponsored by 1st Centennial Bank/KWB Wealth Managers, brought opportunities for riders to push ahead and grab the winning title. 19-year-old rising Swedish star Emilia Fahlin from Team High Road sprinted across the finish line first, with Alex Wrubleski, from Webcor Builders, and Brenda Lyons, from Advil/Chapstick rounding out the top three. Mara Abbott (High Road) maintained her lead in the overall.

The criterium race zipped through downtown Redlands and gave riders technical corners and numerous opportunities for attacks. Place changes and fast paces created an ebb and flow to the race, and left the crowd guessing who would strike the hardest and pull ahead. "This course has a lot of corners and fast laps, which I like," said Fahlin, who was a first time Redlands Bicycle Classic participant. "Everyone talks about this race. It's a big goal for the team." Fahlin fought her way to the end, knowing she had to keep her wheels spinning. "After I took off seconds for the first bonus I was a little tired, so I had to push it."

Mara Abbott, Fahlin's teammate, looked forward to tomorrow's Sunset race closer. "Every year Sunset is a good race, with something unexpected always happening. It's a great course."

For more information about the 2008 Redlands Bicycle Classic, presented by PossAbilities, including current race results, visit www.redlandsclassic.com.

Photo: Leonard Basobas