January 2006 Archive

1-2-2006 My Fall I'm sure you guys have heard by now that I took a nasty fall on Saturday on the road bike, got to meet some really cool EMT's in the ambulance on the way to the Cartersville Medical Center, and got to have some good painkillers while waiting in the ER. I'm ok although I have a hematoma the size of 2 softballs. I'm going to follow up with my doctor this week.

Camera for Sale I have a Minolta Maxxum 3xi 35 mm film camera for sale. It's in great shape and used to shoot many of the photos for this website before I went digital, so I know it takes great cycling photos! It includes a 35-80 mm Sigma lens. $45 not including shipping. See a photo here.

Sales List I've added a bunch of stuff to my sales list. It's time to make room in my closet. There are some great deals on jerseys, including several Litespeed jerseys.

Georgia Cup Schedule The Georgia Cup has released the 2006 schedule:

Feb. 25-26 Albany
April 8-9 Gainesville
May 27-29 Savannah
June 10-11 Dahlonega:
July 22-23 Rome
Aug. 19-20 Augusta
Sept. 16-17 Lagrange
Sept. 30-Oct. 1 Atlanta/Buckhead Crit

GA STR License Plate From Georgia Bikes: As a reminder, starting on Tuesday, January 3, county tag offices across the state will begin accepting applications for the Georgia SHARE THE ROAD specialty license plate.  You can either apply in-person or by-mail. The latest plate and applying  information including an "apply-by-mail form" PDF and a "sample plate" photo can be found at:
http://www.GeorgiaBikes.org/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabid=80

Please consider applying for the SHARE THE ROAD license plate and sharing this message with your friends and family. Remember, all that is needed is 1,000 applications to allow this plate to finally become  a reality (we've been through too much and come too far to let this not succeed
now). Recall too, that the full $25 annual fee from each plate will go to the Governor's Office Of Highway Safety for cyclist and motorist safety, education, and awareness programs and projects.

**FYI, apply-by-mail forms and a SHARE THE ROAD license plate poster will be supplied next week to all bike shops and all tag offices in Georgia. These materials are a jointly funded and designed effort of GEORGIA BIKES! and the North Georgia Bicycle Dealers Association:
http://www.Bike4Fun.com

1-3-2006 TBRA Schedule The Tennessee Bicycle Racing Association has released their 2006 mountain bike and road calendars. As a reminder, I will be adding series as their schedules are released.

Yellow River *Cringe* Paved trails at Yellow River....read on. With Blanket's Creek and Chicopee about the same driving distance for me, I haven't been to Yellow River in several years.

Heritage Work Party From SORBA-Athens: "Just wanted to let you know that there will be a SORBA Athens sponsored work-party at Oconee Heritage Park this Saturday, January the 7th at 10 AM. We will be working on some new trail, and touching up some of the recent extensions near the landfill. Expect the session to last 3-4 hours, and temperature forecasts are in the low 40's, so be sure to dress warmly and don't forget to bring plenty of hydration. Depending on how many people show up, there may or may not be a cooler in the truck with after-work beverages...Tools that would be helpful to bring if you have them: 1. Loppers (long handled) 2. Pulaskis as always 3. Folding saws We're pretty set on things like rakes and shovels. You might want to bring a bike to ride to where we'll be working, if you want to save a 15-minute walk. Oconee County has asked us not to use the landfill entrance for parking, even for work parties, so be sure to park in the normal mountain bike parking for Heritage. 10 AM is meeting time in the parking lot; from there we will walk/ride to the project area (the new landfill loop). hope to see you there, charlie --- Charlie Maffitt SORBA Athens"

Work Parties Is your SORBA Chapter having a trail work party? Email me to get it posted on Southeastern Cycling and reach people that might otherwise not know about it!

Charlotte Short Track Series From Charlotte Sports Cycling: Sir Edmond Halley's Cup presented by Heartwood Tree Service January 21st  Kick Off Event for the 3rd Annual Short Track Series www.charlottemtnbike.com Charlotte Sports Cycling and the Dirt Divas are teaming up once again to host the most exciting event of the new year, the Sir Edmond Halley's Cup presented by Heartwood Tree Service. If you haven't yet participated in one of the short track series races, its one of the most unique, thrilling races of the year. The short track is a combination of mountain bike racing and a road criterium. The course travels over fast single track with banked turns, a gravel road, a parking lot and a little bit of sidewalk, great for roadies and mountain bikers alike. The
series will consist of five events, Jan 21 and 29, Feb 4, 12 and 18 and will all be held at the infamous Renaissance Park Short Track, rain, snow or shine. All events are very spectator friendly. All events will feature 13 categories, including two new categories: Super Sport Women and Single Speed. Super Sport Women was created for the women not quite experienced enough to race Expert and for the fast road women without a NOBRA license. Weekly, we will award nice trophies for the top three finishers. For the series, participants will battle for cash and/or prizes from our great list of sponsors. We will have one double points race and a Money Grows on Trees promotion, both
announced at random the day of the event. The Money Grows on Trees is a promotion brought to you by are sponsor, Heartwood Tree Service and  consists of a $50 bonus for each category winner the day of the event. We will have tons of great food from Halley's, coffee from Caribou Coffee, music and fast racing at each and every event. We will also have a heated area to keep your fingers and toes warm while you're watching other races. Come on out and see what its all about. Check out
www.charlottemtnbike.com for registration, event schedule and all other pertinent information.

1-4-2006 WBL News December no sprint rides now behind Zealots as they stampede through the last month of the year. Bowman completed in record pace: 80 miles, 20 mph average. Ride report now posted at www.winterbikeleague.com. Sprints begin. Epic showdown looms. It's Bradley vs. Winter: Atlanta vs. Athens. Read the rules for the first ever double sprint next weekend on the Atlantis Hydroponics (www.atlantishydroponics.com) Lula Double Sprint Classic. It's like a Brinks truck overturned on the highway. Don't be a fool, read them rules.

SORBA Skills Clinics SORBA will be hosting free beginner skills clinics, mostly this weekend Jan. 7-8. Details are here.
 

1-5-2006 Gainesville SORBA Clinic Postponed From Gainesville-SORBA: Due to the ice storm and the damage to many trees around the Gainesville College Trail we will postpone the clinic until a later date in January. This Saturday morning the 7th we will meet at 9:30am to work on clearing the damage in order to get the trail ridable again. Once the trail is clear we will reschedule a date for the Beginner's Skill Clinic. We are sorry for the inconvience but feel it wouldn't be much of a clinic if you were unable to ride the trail. Thank you, Blake Sexton Gainesville SORBA any questions or comments email: gainesville@sorba.org

Georgia State Championship Series HECK YEAH, BABY!!!!! Gone Riding has put up a schedule for the Georgia State Championship series. THANK YOU DAVID AND TERRY BERGER!!

Announcing the 2006 Georgia State Championship series or “GSC”. This series will have the official sanction of Norba as a state championship and promoted by Gone Riding, Inc. and is in association with several SORBA chapters in Georgia. The series will be composed of 8 events between April and August of 2006.

The series will feature the following…
1) $30,000 in cash an prizes
2) Norba State Championship
3) Kids series
4) Team Championship
5) Series Banquet
6) Consistent class structures
7) Electronic scoring, fast and accurate
Quality races, quality courses
9) Reasonable entry fees
10) Flexible schedule with one drop race and one make up round

Click link below for the series flier… http://www.goneriding.com/2006/GSC/FLIER-color.pdf

More information coming soon! 

Apr. 2 East Macon
May 7 Jackson
June 18 Helen
June 25 Central Macon
July 9 Ellijay
Aug. 6 Athens
Aug. 13 Columbus
Aug. 27 West Macon
 

1-9-2006 Ran Across This I ran across this website called The Bike Game the other day with interviews from some of the southeast's colorful characters from the race scene. Good reading.

OTR's First Win of 2006! OTR Cycling had its first win of 2006. On January 7th, Travis Cross won the 16 mile division of the Snake Creek Gap mountain bike time trial in Northwest, Georgia. Travis raced in the Clydesdale division. Way to go Travis!

Preliminary SE Racing Calendar I have a copy of the preliminary Southeastern racing calendar. These dates, venues, etc. are subject to change. Contact the promoter for the latest information.

Fire I found this tidbit on one of the local forums: "Atlanta Retailer Up and Running after Christmas Day Fire January 06, 2006 -- ATLANTA, GA (BRAIN)—Free-Flite Bicycles’ Buckhead store has recovered from damages it suffered from a fire that started at 8 p.m. on Dec. 25. The source of the fire was in the neighboring workout facility located below the shop and was contained an hour later. The store reopened its doors the following day.
 

“Odor was present and all clothing was taken off the walls, but we were able to operate,” said Dan Thornton, president of Free-Flite Bicycles, a three-store chain in Georgia.

Thornton said the Buckhead Fire Department’s investigation determined that it was not deliberately set and that the fire started in the workout facility’s men's sauna room.

Free-Flite Bicycles’ losses though minimal still amounted to approximately $14,000 in clothing and $2,700 in other damages, Thornton said, but will be covered by its insurance. Physical damages included shattered double front doors and a small window, which were broken by the fire department to gain access into the building.

“The store still has a slight smoke odor and clean-up is on-going,” said Thornton, who still considered himself pretty lucky. “Our floor/their ceiling is made from formed concrete so we did not have any heat damage.”

From: http://www.bicycleretailer.com/bicycleretailer/headlines/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1001806767

1-10-2006 Tundra Time Trial It's back for its 4th year! "The 4th annual Tundra TT will be held on Sat. Feb. 18, 06 and registration is up! Please go to www.active.com or http://www.active.com/event_detail.cfm?event_id=1264754.

The Tundra TT registation is first come first serve. The earlier you register the later your start time. I am happy to announce that we will also be hosting the 2nd annual Post Tundra TT group ride as well. After the battles are faught on the cold course, all the medals have been taken, and the champaign spilt, we will have an organized group ride. The group ride will leave approximately 25 minutes post the award ceremony. We will be riding the infamous Hulsey Town Nuevo loop- 67 miles with a one mile gravel road (aka Pave' sections) There will be a store stop about 1/2 way with several sprint and KOM "attack" zones. Average pace will be about 18-20 mph. Maps/q-sheets are available online at www.atlbike.org Sincerely your friends, Mitch Askew and Jim Burt"

Travel Girl Announces Bike Sponsor  Flyte Named Official Bicycle of travelgirl cycling

Flyte Precision Bicycles, designed and distributed worldwide by Echelon Sports Products, has been named the official bicycle equipment supplier to travelgirl cycling, an Atlanta-based women’s professional cycling team. travelgirl, ranked 28th out of 93 teams in the 2005 NRC Women’s Team Standings, selected Flyte because of its advanced frame materials and superior design.

"Flyte lived up to their end of the sponsorship bargain, and it will be a pleasure living up to ours,” said travelgirl cycling Manager and rider, Kim Sawyer. She added that the team is “very excited about the partnership…the customer service has been outstanding and the bike itself, after only a few test rides, is very stiff and responsive – perfect for criterium racing.”

As with every Flyte product, the design for travelgirl’s team bike underwent thousands of hours of real world testing, fine-tuning its geometry and material selection. The travelgirl team chose Flyte (www.flyte1.com) because its products represent the highest standards in both technical and aesthetic accomplishments, using Titanium, High Modulus Carbon Fiber, Proprietary U6 Double-Butted Alloy, and other specialized materials engineered with a strict emphasis on ride quality.

“We are thrilled that travelgirl will be racing on Flyte bicycles. They’re dedicated women who love cycling; they will inspire others and us in 2006,” says James Raddin, owner of Flyte and original founder and designer of Airborne Bicycles.

“I’ve been in the bike industry for over 20 years, and Flyte is setting the standard for technical design excellence and web-enabled custom bikes,” Raddin says. At Flyte, he’s joined by a tenured staff of core cyclists who have a legacy of award-winning customer service, who, according to Sawyer, “were super easy to work with.”

Equipped with new bikes, travelgirl is ready for the 2006 season. The team, comprised of seven of the strongest female cyclists in the Southeastern United States, includes the following riders: multiple Super Week stage winner Jenn Green, top sprinter Leigh Valletti, Georgia State Criterium, Cyclocross and Road Champion Kim Sawyer, U.S. Masters Nationals podium-finisher Marianne Holt, 2003 Ecology Center Classic Criterium winner Deb Borden, 2005 Autour Du Lac Omnium winner and time trial specialist Kim Foland, and Canadian Tracey Grimshaw.

When asked about preparing for the new season, Sawyer said “We’ll be holding our fourth annual team camp in February. Like last year, it’s a 3-day event at a beautiful lake house on Lake Hartwell in northeastern Georgia. We all have busy schedules and see less of each other over the cold, dark winter months, than we do during the racing season. So, our team camp is a chance to get together, eat, ride, eat, review 2005, talk about individual and team goals for 2006 . . .and eat. It’s a positive way to begin a long season.”

In addition to racing southeastern regional races, travelgirl will attend NRC events such as the Sea Otter Classic, Women’s Tour de Georgia Criterium, Athens Twilight Criterium, and the U.S. National Criterium Championships. Sawyer thinks the team is most excited about the week of racing near Memorial Day: Captech Classic, Bike Jam/Kelly Cup, Snow Valley Grand Prix of Bethesda, and Tour of Somerville.

“I feel comfortable saying that any of our women can surprise you,” Sawyer says, “And collectively, we’re much stronger than if we performed solely as individuals. However, I it’s also fair to say than Jenn Green and Leigh Valletti each performed fairly consistently last year, and I expect them, as well as others, to have many more surprises up their sleeves.”

travelgirl Magazine (www.travelgirlinc.com), an Atlanta-based publication geared toward women of all ages and walks of life, has returned as the team’s title sponsor. Since the magazine’s inception in June 2003, it has consistently printed relevant and generational content, and engaging travel essays that combine factual destination information with personal opinion.

Team News Does YOUR team have a press release or have some team news? Share it with Southeastern Cycling! Feel free to send photos as well.

1-11-2006 Chicopee Work Party From Gainesville-SORBA:  This Saturday the 14th at 9:30am, Gainesville SORBA will hold a work party at Chicopee Woods. We will continue work on the Outer Loop project. Please wear good work shoes and bring something to drink throughout the work day. Lunch will be provided for volunteers by Addictive Cycles.
Another GA Professional Team

 1-12-2006 Another GA Pro Team AEG-Toshiba-JetNetwork Pro Cycling Team, a US Continental team based in Athens, Georgia, has announced its sponsors and roster for 2006. Known as Aerospace Engineering Group-VMG in 2005, the team rose to prominence in its first year in the professional ranks when Serbian Ivan Stevic led the team to several results. Building on last year's success, the team will expand its roster and support staff with the help of an increase in sponsor commitment. This year, three companies share in title support of the team: Aerospace Engineering Group (AEG), Toshiba, and JetNetwork. AEG Group, which provides service and sales for private, commercial, and military aircraft in the US (Miami), Asia, and Europe, supports the team for the fourth consecutive year. Toshiba, the fifth largest technology company in the world, brings name brand recognition and increased support in its fifth year of sponsorship. JetNetwork, a first year sponsor, is a leader in private aviation and offers a range of services, including private jet membership, aircraft sales and management, and private aircraft charters. Adding different types of riders to its roster, the team will have more possibilities in 2006. Nebojsa Jovanavic, a stage winner at UCI events in Bulgaria, Greece, and Serbia, headlines this year's new recruits and plans to take up where compatriot Ivan Stevic left off. Sprinter Emile Abraham rejoins the team after a stint with Monex and will look to add to his growing list of National victories. 2003 Elite National Criterium Champion Keith Norris also returns to the team and will focus on replicating his big win at the professional level. Eric Murphy and Hugh Moran will continue from last year's squad to challenge on the climbs, and cyclo-cross standouts Ryan Trebon and Barry Wicks will bring their off-road skills to exclusive road events.

After gathering for a training camp in Georgia during the latter half of January, the team will start into its 2006 programmes made out of National and UCI calendars in February with intentions to land on podiums throughout the Americas and at select European events. The full team roster outlines as follows: Emile Abraham (Tri), Chris Deluise (USA), Chris Frederick (USA), Esad Hasanovic (Scg), Nebojsa Jovanavic (Scg), Eric Keim (USA), Bruno Langlois (Can), Viktor Laza (Scg), Hugh Moran (USA), Eric Murphy (USA), Keith Norris (USA), Prokic Predrag (Scg), Jake Rubelt (USA), AJ Smith (USA), Frank Travieso (Cub), Ryan Trebon (USA), Barry Wicks (USA) and Greg Wolf (USA). Managing Director is Ravi Rajcoomar.

Quick.Step to TdG Cyclingnews.com is reporting that Quick.Step will be coming to the Tour De Georgia for the first time.

Ft. Yargo Work Party The next Fort Yargo trail work party will be Feb. 26 at 8:00 am. Meet at the front office.

Hello, Anyone Out There? Is anyone reading this, please let me know! sttarlite at hotmail dot com

Congratulations, Nathan! Nathan O'Neill has captured his 7th Australian TT National Championship this week. Nathan lives in Georgia with his wife, Karen.

1-13-2006  Georgia Cyclocrosser Honored Georgia-Cross Elite Women's Champion Sam Williams, who races for Alan, was honored for her achievements by the Greater Augusta Sports Council at their annual sports awards gala. Williams was presented a bronze medal in the Amateur Star category. The gold medal was awarded to NCAA Division II golf champion Dane Burkhart from USC-Aiken. US National rower Tim Larson, who resides in N. Augusta, took the silver. Another bike racer was honored during the ceremony as well. BMX racer Josh Sellner, from Aiken, SC, took silver in the Rising Star category. Sam is the second cyclist to be honored in the Amateur Star category. Former Jittery Joes professional Kurt Garin took the high honor in the category after winning the Georgia State championship road race several years ago.

Charlotte News From Charlotte Sports Cycling: "This Saturday, January 14 the Eighth Annual Polar Bear Metric with the Rocky River Road Club in Davidson, NC. Info on the event can be found
at www.rockyriverroadclub.org FREE Giordana cycling caps to the first 150 who register. Two great routes, lots of food and tons of fun.  Sunday at 10:00AM, we will be making the final preparations on the infamous short track course at Renaissance Park. The plan is to add a
couple more small berms and one more small table top just before the creek crossing. If you have a couple minutes to spare on Sunday, come on out.Your input and help is greatly needed and appreciated. The first race will kick off on Saturday, January 21. For info on the event, visit
www.charlottemtnbike.com and info on upcoming trailwork, visit
www.tarheeltrailblazers.com

Also, final preparations are being made for the Seventh Annual CSC Winter Training Ride in Harrisburg. The event will be held on February 11 and will offer three supported routes, 30, 55 and 70 mile options. Info will soon be posted on www.charlottesportscycling.com."

1-16-2006 Tinker Comes to Georgia!  Tinker Juarez, who races for the Siemens-Cannondale mountain bike team, will be racing the 12 Hours of Dauset in July!

Rick Crawford Lectures From something I got today: "Co-founder of www.Targetraining.com. Former Pro-Triathlete and Cycling. Coach of Tom Danielson, Levi Leipheimer, Chann McRae, Chris Wherry, Todd Wells, Shonny Vanlandingham and the Fort Lewis Collegiate Team is coming to Georgia" for training lectures and meet and greets.  "Thursday, Jan. 26th - GA Cycle Sport Athens, GA 6.30PM – Training Lecture and Meet & Greet Directions – call 706-549-2453 or visit www.georgiacyclesport.com

Friday, Jan. 27th – Roswell Bikes – ATL, GA 6.30PM – Training Lecture and Meet
& Greet Directions – call 770-642-4057 or visit www.roswellbicycles.com

Saturday, Jan 28th – The WBL!!! Dinner and Meet & Greet – TBA
Directions – visit www.winterbikeleague.com

Free to everyone! Come join Rick, for any and all events, as he discusses his training methodology, coaching experience, and answers your questions!"

Trish's note: I attended one of the lectures about two years ago. IMO, it would be more beneficial to those starting out racing and training than to "advanced" riders that already have a good idea about racing and training. The lecture was more sales pitch than anything. Still, it might interested some people, so I am posting it. I have NO other information than the above. 

Saul's Birthday Ride Saul Raisin, a Georgia native who rides for the Pro Tour team Credit Agricole, held his birthday ride in Dalton last Sunday. NARC rider Judy Galvin attended with several of her friends and reports in.

Airport Ride No, it's not your imagination. The early group on the Airport ride has started doing a slightly different loop. It's flatter, which I love. As everyone knows, I hate hills. I can't say that it is as scenic, but it is flatter. Great job to whoever found the alternate route!

Judy Galvin and friends pose with Saul Raisin on his birthday ride in Dalton last Sunday.
 

Junior Racing in Atlanta Trish's note: Please note that this is for Atlanta based Juniors.From the Georgia Youth Cycling Alliance: "Georgia Youth Cycling Alliance Forges Sport’s Future
1 January 2006 - This is a great time to be part of American development cycling. Many young
athletes are interested in the sport for the first time. Our sport has received increased media
coverage in the U.S. with the success of international stars such as Lance Armstrong.
Focus should now shift to development of our future stars. Young riders’ success depends on
support from all of us who want to see our young cyclists have the opportunity to develop into
world class athletes. Organization and coordination of this support is critical as well.
Georgia cycling teams are already working to improve youth racing in the state. These include the
L5 Flyers, Fulton Flyers, Training Wheels, North Atlanta Riding Club, Epic Cycling and Frazier
Cycling. The Alliance looks to bring these and other teams together to improve our youth cycling.
The Alliance was formed to increase the number of teams in the state supporting youth cycling,
and increase junior racing opportunities. It provides a network of teams experienced in youth
cycling, and a unified voice to race promoters. It also encourages teams to work together in
providing development programs for young riders of all ages. My club, the Fulton Flyers, started its junior racing team seven years ago. Our development team now has its own sponsors and staff. This year we were overwhelmed with requests to join our team, reflective of a nationwide increase in interest in youth cycling. In the past we welcomed all juniors into our team, but have reached our limit to support additional riders. Also, we feel riders are best served by teams to whom they live close. Earlier this year we actively sought teams to accommodate new riders – in response, Ken Rosskopf and the L5 Flyers formed a junior development squad, and now they too quickly reached their limit.
 

For Georgia youth cycling to continue to grow there must be additional teams supporting junior
riders. For now there seems to be no shortage of interested riders, but the current wave of interest
will not last forever. A state-wide support system and suitable races are imperative to retain these
new-found athletes once they have entered our sport.

Please add a junior element to your club and join the Alliance now! We want clubs to take an
active role, and will hold some meetings (and a lot shared via email) – and there are no dues.
Email or write, and be part of the future of our sport now. If you don't have a junior team now, but
plan to build one, and would like to be kept informed of Alliance activities, please let me know.
Sincerely, Lamar Mauney, Fulton Flyers Development Team, http://devo.fultonflyers.org ffccjuniors at comcast dot net

Phonak and Landis to TdG Cyclingnews.com is reporting that Floyd Landis will be back for the TdG.

1-18-2006 ABC Job Opening From ABC: "Job Announcement  The Atlanta Bicycle Campaign is seeking a Public Outreach Coordinator. This full-time position will include a variety of duties relating to public outreach and promotion of bicycle safety and bicycle commuting concepts. Tasks will include assisting with our Safe Routes to School project, our Share the Road Campaign, the Effective Cycling education program, and bicycle encouragement activities.

Applicants should have experience and proficiency in:

organizing and implementing group events and public announcements
working with children
working with the general public.
speaking in public
basic bicycle safety concepts
computer skills

Starting salary: $29,000 - $35,000, depending on qualifications, plus benefits.
Apply by February 1. Send resume and pertinent qualifications to Dennis Hoffarth, Executive Director at atlantabike@mindspring.com. For more information, contact Dennis at 404-881-1112.

1-20-2006 WBL News Because of pending inclement weather, Alto may be pushed back 1 week (thus all rides pushed back 1 week). A final decision will be made before the clock strikes midnight tonight (Thursday). Look for updates on website. If ride rescheduled, a follow-up announcement will be sent. However, as always, the WBL will still attempt to do a ride regardless.
Stay tuned for details.  The Whether Man.

Weekend Rec. Ride This is from my friend Vera. Please email her for more details. The ride will start in the Decatur area: "I am going to be leading a "recreational" ride on the weekends. The day will vary from Sat. to Sun. depending on schedule issues. Please give me feedback on which day is better for you all.  My plan is to start around 10 am and go for 2 or 3 hours. The pace will be moderate (of course folks are welcome to go faster) but goal is get a good workout without trying to break any records. In an effort to accommodate the moms and other late morning starters among us...the time might fluctuate a little bit.
Vera
vkornylak at hotmail dot com

Charlotte News Feb 11 2006 CSC Winter Training Ride http://www.charlottesportscycling.com/trainridebroch2006.pdf
Fully supported ride for cyclists of all abilities. Three marked  routes, plus a couple challenges during the ride.

The 2006 MTB Short Track Series is set to kick off this weekend. Come out on. We'll have great food, music, and lots of fast racing. Sir Edmond Halley's Cup presented by Heartwood Tree Service and the Dirt Divas January 21st Kick Off Event for the 3rd Annual Short Track Series
www.charlottemtnbike.com

Here's a quick update on the series:
We picked up another sponsor this week. Organic Systems has added to the overall series purse, $75 to the series winners in Expert, Semi-Expert and Super Sport Women. www.organicsystemsllc.com  This past weekend, we added two more berms and a small table top that can easily be ridden over, not jumped. The course has been "winterized" as we have worked crush-n-run into the trail. All races will be run rain, sleet, snow, or shine. Registration and all of the food area is covered and on concrete and we have heated bathrooms. After we worked the course, we all rode the newly added berms. It was awesome. The short single track section of the course flows through the woods and is super fun and fast. We may have news coverage out this Saturday, so even if you don't race, come on out and heckle the racing crew.  Last but definitely not least, several folks have been asking about the misfits race category. Basically what we are going to do, just before the Expert race, we are going to have a three lap shootout....anything  goes. Single speeds, hoop-tees, down hill bikes, tandems, cruisers,  BMX, anything that has wheels and no mechanized motor. All events will feature 13 categories, including two new categories:  Super Sport Women and Single Speed. Super Sport Women was created for the women not quite experienced enough to race Expert and for the fast road women without a NOBRA license. Weekly, we will award nice trophies for the top three finishers. For the series, participants will battle for cash and/or prizes from our great list of sponsors. We will have one double points race and a "Money Grows on Trees" promotion, both announced at random the day of the event. The Money Grows on Trees is a
promotion brought to you by are sponsor, Heartwood Tree Service and  consists of a $50 bonus for each category winner the day of the event. Check out www.charlottemtnbike.com for more info. Thanks, Neal, Charlotte Sports Cycling Inc., 2022 Dembrigh Lane, Charlotte, NC 28262
nealboyd@charlottesportscycling.com

Alto WBL (as of 7:00 Friday morning) From the WBL: "Alto will be pushed back 1 week. But, as of now we, still plan on riding a Classic. Stay tuned for future updates. W>W"

1-21-2006  travelgirl Magazine Roster

travelgirl Magazine Women’s Cycling Team announces 2006 roster and sponsors.

ATLANTA, GA – January 20, 2006 - The travelgirl Women's Cycling Team is pleased to announce its 2006 team roster and sponsors. travelgirl Magazine (travelgirlinc.com), an Atlanta-based travel magazine geared toward women of all ages and walks of life, has again returned as title sponsor. The magazine's renewed commitment allows the team, after a successful 2005 season including two stage wins and three podiums at Super Week; an 8th–place team ranking the Wachovia Liberty Classic; and victories in the Georgia State Road, Criterium, and Cyclocross Championships, to again expand its calendar to encompass additional National Race Calendar (NRC) events. In addition to racing southeastern regional races, travelgirl will attend NRC events such as the Athens Twilight Criterium, Nalley Historic Roswell Criterium, Raleigh Twilight Criterium, Sunny King Criterium, Captech Classic, Bike Jam/Kelly Cup, Snow Valley Grand Prix, Tour of Somerville, Wachovia Liberty Classic, Bank of America Criterium, US 10K Classic, and the U.S. National Criterium Championships.

Returning from last season are 2004 U.S. Masters Nationals podium-finisher Marianne Holt, 2003 Ecology Center Classic Criterium winner Deborah Borden (CAN), all-arounder Jen Green, time trial specialist Kim Foland, Canadian Tracey Grimshaw (CAN), top regional rider Kim Sawyer, and powerhouse Leigh Valletti. This group is joined by former Colavita/Cooking Light rider and 2005’s U-23 U.S. National Criterium champion, Megan Esmonde.

In addition to title sponsor travelgirl Magazine, 2006 team sponsors include Aerus components (aeruscomp.com), Hincapie Sportswear (hincapiesports.com), Tifosi Optics (tifosioptics.com), Bell (bellsports.com), ebikewarehouse.com, Akona Biospeed (akonabiospeed.com), RBM-Mercedes Benz, Maxxis (maxxis.com), Blackwell Research (blackwellresearch.com), Endurofit Coaching (endurofit.com), and Colby Kidd Designs (colbykidd.com).

Along with these companies, Flyte (flyte1.com) has partnered with team to make the SRS-2 the official bicycle of the 2006 travelgirl team. travelgirl chose Flyte because its products represent the highest standards in both technical and aesthetic accomplishments, using Titanium, High Modulus Carbon Fiber, Proprietary U6 Double-Butted Alloy, and other specialized materials engineered with a strict emphasis on ride quality. Flyte’s advanced frame materials and superior design combined and excellence for customer sets the stage for a positive 2006 season.

travelgirl's U.S.C.F. club, Roswell Velo, also fields a club-level and Elite Men's team. Roswell Velo is also the organizer and promoter of the Nalley Historic Roswell Criterium (nalleyhrc.com), an NRC event in its fifth year.

For more information on the travelgirl team, please contact Kim Sawyer at or visit our website, travelgirlcycling.com.

YOUR Team's Press Release Does your team, organization, or race have a press release or announcement? Email it to Southeastern Cycling.

Sorella Gear Swap- Buy/Sell/Trade your Gear Here! Bring your cycling, paddling, climbing, adventure racing, camping, etc. Gear to sell or trade..Or, just come to shop! For those that will be selling items, we ask for a $5.00 donation to Sorella Cycling…and if you have a table, please bring it.

When:
Saturday, Feb. 25, 9am-12noon (Weather Permitting)
Rain Date will be Saturday, March 4, 9am-12noon

Where:
436 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta, GA 30307

This event is OPEN to the public, so spread the word! -Sorella Cycling

1-23-2006  Atlanta Bike Show From a Craigslist posting: The Atlanta Bike Show and Swap Meet is coming soon. April 1 and 2 at the National Guard Armory in Marietta. Located just west of US 41 and the North 120 Loop. Crates, Cruisers, Vintage Lightweights and whatever you want to swap. Table space available for vendors. More details soon. Come on out and pick some great deals and see some really cool bikes. Trish's Note: I've heard this is mostly vintage bikes.

Yellow River Plans GATR (SORBA Chapter Gwinnett Area Trail Riders) has posted what Mike Riter's plans are for Yellow River. Construction will begin soon.

Another option for Sunday riding. The roads out in Paulding and Polk counties are GREAT! There is some good climbing on this route. Although I've never ridden the route as they are planning on it, I've done a lot of the roads. With the Camp Highland guys, you know thepace will be quick!
 

1-24-2006 Say Goodbye to Chris Alison The Camp Highland team is hosting a ride on Sunday as a fare well to Chris Alison. He is getting ready to go to Belgium to race and try to make it as a pro. Send off ride and soiree for our very own Chris Allison as he makes his way to Europe on two wheels and Basque Country carbon fiber!

When? Sunday!! Jan 29, 2006
Where? Meet up at Starbucks in Hiram at 9 a.m. for coffee/talk Sunday a.m.
Roll out at 10 a.m.'ish
If you are questioning the pace of the ride then please visit
Hulsey Town Nuevo route (q-sheets can be found in maps section of www.atlbike.org site) and bring a q-sheet.  We will wait on mechanicals, flats, and crashes only.

Meet up at the Starbucks:
Roll out at 10 a.m.
Distance approx. ~67 miles
Pace: Ave spd approx. 18 mph
Q-sheets available via this web site
One store stop
May the wind always be at your back, the temp at 72, and your big ring feel like your little ring.

Directions to Starbucks in Hiram, Ga
Take I-20 West to Thorton Road aka (Camp Creek PKWY) and turn right off the exit heading West on Thorton (aka Camp Creek PKWY/HWY 278)
Go many miles and many minutes on Hwy 278 West and you will hit Hiram the land of Hooters, Home Depot, Race Track gasoline and many other fine Americana establishments. Just past the Hooters you will see the welcome green of the Starbucks store.

Alt directions;-
Take I-285 West to South Atlanta Road exit
Turn right off exit
Turn left onto Cumberland PkWy aka East/West connector
Travel many miles and many minutes to Powder Springs road
Left onto Powder Springs road (aka Richard D. Sailors PkWy)
Right onto Hwy 278 West
Travel about 3-4 miles to Hiram
Trish's note: The start is about 30-35 minutes from 285.

Random There are some really weird random videos out there.

OTR Cycling-Strenflex 2006

OTR Strenflex 2006 Roster

Atlanta, Georgia, January 24, 2006--The OTR Cycling-Strenflex cycling team announces its 2006 roster. Composed of amateur racers from Atlanta, Georgia, OTR Cycling will concentrate on the Georgia Cup series, Georgia Championships Mountain Bike Series, the Southeastern Regional Championship Series and other races throughout the Southeast. OTR Cycling is also planning to travel to several NRC road races and NCS mountain bike events this year.

OTR Cycling returns with the same riders that were among the best Cat. 4 riders in Georgia 2005. Josh Arwood, Ryan Pumpian, Chris Hurst, and Jeff Wheeler return to form the core of the Cat. 3 Men’s team. Addition Michael Steimle will give OTR Cycling another rider for the overall classification at omniums and stage races. Cat. 3 rider Richie Hunt will lead the Masters riders at selected races. Ranked at the top of the NORBA Sport Women’s standings, Cat. 3 Trish Albert will focus on East Coast UCI Cyclocross races in the fall. Brett Goldenberg and Travis Cross will be focusing on the GCS and SERC mountain bike series in their respective Sport age divisions.

OTR Cycling is sponsored by Ace Industries, a leader in the crane and hoist industry. Its flagship product is Strenflex Synthetic Crane Slings, the market standard for rigging accessories and products. Southeasterncycling.com is the leading website in the Southeast for racing information. Boneshaker Bicycles and the Bicycle Link will be providing mechanical support. Additional sponsors include Litespeed, Gu Sports, Tifosi, Maxxis Tires, Harrington Hoists, Nine Mile Trolley Realty, and Perimeter Remodeling

Roster
2006 OTR Cycling Team

Road

Cat. 3
Josh Arwood, Atlanta, GA aka The Sponsor aka Bridesmaid
Richie Hunt, Powder Springs GA
Ryan Pumpian, Atlanta, GA
Chris Hurst, Smyrna, GA
Jeff Wheeler, Atlanta, GA
Michael Steimle, Atlanta, GA

Cat. 4
Doug Gravino, Roswell, GA

Cat. 5
Daniel Arwood, Atlanta, GA
Brad Moulard, Alpharetta, GA
Donald Coggia, Atlanta, GA
Travis Wright, Summerville, GA
Andrew Diffenderfer, Atlanta, GA
Brett Goldenburg, Atlanta, GA
Travis Cross, Atlanta, GA

Women-Cat. 3
Trish Albert, Smyrna, GA

Women-Cat. 4
Laura Sconyers, Atlanta, GA

Mountain Bike

Sport
Brett Goldenberg, Atlanta, GA
Travis Cross, Atlanta, GA

Women-Sport
Trish Albert, Smyrna, GA

Cyclocross

Women's A/Elite
Trish Albert, Smyrna, GA

1-25-2006 Greenville Training Series The Greenville Training Series will be Feb. 25-26, March 4-5, and March 11-12. The flyer is here.

What do you get when cyclists do Jello Shots? Ask Joe Gasser and Val Immele....(I told you guys this would be going up! :) Photo by Becky "Hill Seeker" Grant

OTR and Cyclingnews.com How cool is this? OTR Cycling made cyclingnews.com!!

WBL News Alto is a Go! 4 former Alto winners preregistered for event. Maps are available on site now at www.winterbikeleague.com Printed directions will be available shortly. Print maps beforehand - limited number available at ride. Huge points available. Explanation in ride details on site now. Top 35 posted. Reply here if points wrong.  PLEASE TIP THE SAG! (Remember what happened to Canada Dave when he didn't.) Carney!

1-26-2006 Ride to State Capitol  Bike Roswell! is planning a huge bike ride from Roswell to the GA State Capital in March. The 20 mile en masse ride will be to raise awareness of cyclists' needs and concerns and to win more support from the Governor, State Legislators, and Cities Officials (some will be riding with us) as well as the general public. This ride is slated to be BIG and FREE - with local, regional and national media coverage. Stay tuned to Bike Roswell! or our website at Roswell Bicycles for more details. Trish's note: I know someone involved in the planning of this. They are hoping it will be huge!

1-27-2006 Victory Brewing Team in Asheville Come out and support Asheville's professional cycling team. Victory Brewing will be at Barley's with beer and more.

(Downingtown, PA) — The Victory Brewing Professional Women's Cycling Team will make an appearance January 31, from 8-10 PM at Barley's Taproom ( http://www.barleystaproom.com – 42 Biltmore, Asheville, NC, phone: 828-255-0504) in downtown Asheville, NC, to kick off their 2006 nationwide campaign. Of the 11 team members on hand, notables will include U.S. National Champion & New Asheville resident, Lauren Franges, and Canadians Kirsten Robbins, Laura Yoisten and Leigh Hobson.

This special event at Barley's will give attendees the opportunity to try three of Victory's most popular brands including; Victory Lager, a helles style lager, HopDevil, an India Pale Ale, and Golden Monkey, a Belgian style tripel.

To complement each of the fine beers Victory Brewing Cycling Team members will offer free autographs and posters for the duration.

Barley's Taproom is best known for their wide selection of quality brews, including Victory Brewing products, and their fresh sourdough pizza. The historic Asheville location was originally an appliance store before being renovated in 1994 to an 8,000 square foot restaurant.

For more information on the Victory Brewing Cycling Team or special Barley's Taproom tasting visit the team website at http://www.victorycycling.com/ or contact Mike Tamayo at mike@velomarketing.com .

Victory Brewing Company

Victory Brewing is a privately held microbrewery located in Downingtown, Pennsylvania. Begun by two childhood friends on the back of a school bus in 1973, the brewery formally began operations in February of 1996. Victory, Pennsylvania's widely acclaimed brewery and restaurant, now serves fans of fully flavored beers in 18 states. To learn more about Victory Brewing Company visit us on the web at www.victorybeer.com

All is Well For those that know what I'm talking about, All is well! :) Thanks for your support. If someone else took over, the information would be there, but who can throw a temper tantrum like I can!?!? Isn't it entertaining, just a little!?

The Aarons/L5 Flyers 2006 Juniors aka "The Cutters"

1-30-2006 AtlWest Rides There are some great new group rides on the west side of town in Hiram. Check out the forums at www.atlbike.org for details. They are called the AtlWest rides. Times and routes are fluctuating a bit right now, but the "Sky Loop" is their main loop. There are 36 and 41 mile options and several other loops that can be combined for a ride of 65 miles. There is usually a slower group at 12-13 mph and a faster group at 15-17 mph. For those that are slower, just a note. The Sky Loop is considered an intermediate loop because it's very hilly. It's a very friendly group, even to the newbies.

Marietta IMPACT Meeting I normally don't post much advocacy stuff, but this caught my eye:

From Greg Linto: "Of particular interest to cyclists in the Marietta area, IMPACT (Involved Mariettans Planning Actively for the City of Tomorrow) is hosting a panel discussion/ forum on current and future traffic calming methods. Among the panelists will be an engineer and an urban planner, as well as the public education director from PEDS (Pedestrians Educating Drivers on Safety) and Dennis Hoffarth, executive director of the Atlanta Bicycle Campaign.

The meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 31st at 7:00 pm at Marietta's City Hall in the council chambers. Please feel free to post this announcement to your readership as we hope to attract interested members from the community. Greg Linton, President, IMPACT, (770) 422-8346"

1-31-2006 Roswell Crit Returns Nalley Historic Roswell Criterium, Sunday, April 30, 2006, Canton Street and Historic Roswell

FIFTH CONSECUTIVE YEAR
NALLEY AUTOMOTIVE ROSWELL
PROVIDES SUPPORT FOR LOCAL BICYCLE EVENT

Popular Roswell Mayor's Ride Returns Morning of Criterium

ROSWELL, Ga. (January 30, 2006) – The 5th Annual Nalley Historic Roswell Criterium returns on Sunday, April 30, 2006 as one of the most entertaining participant and spectator sports events in the north metro Atlanta area. Since the first event in 2001, the Nalley Historic Roswell Criterium has grown to hosting 500 elite racers, 350 Mayor's Ride participants and 8,000 spectators. Nalley Automotive Roswell continues its title sponsorship.

"This continues to be one of the top one-day events in Roswell for the year. Nalley Automotive Roswell does such a great job as an event and community partner. The Nalley Historic Roswell Criterium offers something for the whole family," said Terry Michelitch, event organizer and member of Roswell Velo, Inc., the non-profit cycling club that handles logistics of the races.

Sunday begins with a recreational bicycle ride for all levels of cyclists, the Roswell Mayor's Ride. Three ride options will be offered, 5 miles, 24 miles and 44 miles, with a police escort, rest stops and lunch following the event. Last year 342 people participated in the inaugural event, and raised awareness for Bike Roswell!, the grassroots organization helping the city gain recognition as a national bicycle friendly community.

Over 500 elite competitors registered in 2005 for the criterium, a series of eight races on the one-mile route in Historic Roswell. Close to $20,000 in prize money will be up for grabs again in 2006, one of the largest purses on the National Racing Calendar for USA Cycling. The start line will again be in front of Founder's Hall on Canton Street and races will run from Noon to 7:30 p.m. Other activities for the day include a Bikefest Expo, restaurant and shop specials, and a children's bicycle safety rodeo. While there are registration fees to participate in the races and Mayor's Ride, all other activities are complimentary. Registration information will be posted in February at www.nalleyhrc.com.

"Nalley is proud to continue its association with this event in Historic Roswell for a fifth consecutive year. Not only is it a signature event for the employees and families of our four dealerships in Roswell, but it is a wonderful opportunity to give something back to our friends and neighbors in and around our community," said Melissa Corey, Marketing and Advertising Coordinator for Nalley Automotive. The four dealerships supporting the criterium are Nalley Audi, Nalley Chrysler/Jeep, Nalley Jaguar and Nalley Lexus-Roswell.

The Children's Bicycle Safety Rodeo will be managed by the Kiwanis Club of Historic Roswell and is supported by Roswell Bicycles. Children can also participate in the Shimano Youth Series races. The youth races are complimentary to any children who complete the Rodeo and are held on the same race course as the pros. While not the fastest races of the day, the youth races are some of the most entertaining.

Limited sponsorship opportunities are available for the Nalley Historic Roswell Criterium related to children's bicycle races and Mayor's Ride. For information on sponsorship packages please contact Carol McCarley at Peloton Sports – sponsorships@pelotonsports.net or (770) 845-4603.

About the NHRC:
Along with the Nalley Automotive dealerships in Roswell (Audi, Chrysler/Jeep, Jaguar, Lexus) and the City of Roswell, the Nalley Historic Roswell Criterium is supported by Roswell Bicycles, Wilwat Properties, Roswell Convention & Visitors Bureau, Roswell Beverage, 790 The Zone, Peloton Sports and the Revue & News. The event is managed by Roswell Velo, Inc and Peloton Sports, Inc. Information on the event is available by calling the Historic Roswell Convention & Visitors Bureau at 1-800-776-7935 or by visiting the official web site, www.NalleyHRC.com.

About Nalley Automotive Roswell:
Nalley Automotive Roswell consists of four dealers: Audi, Chrysler/Jeep, Jaguar and Lexus. These four dealers are part of the 10-dealer Nalley Automotive Group, one of the largest automotive groups in the metro Atlanta area. The Nalley Automotive Group's business philosophy is "to provide our customers with quality, value and integrity". With over 80 years in the automotive business, it is our policy to treat every visitor that enters our dealerships as an honored guest in our home; every day, every time, without exception. The official website is www.nalleycars.com.

About BIKE ROSWELL!:
Bike Roswell! was established December 9, 2004 to serve in an advisory capacity to local government on issues relating to bicycle recreation, transportation, and safety. The group's mission is to actively promote safe cycling, provide an advocacy platform for Roswell citizens and implement programs to encourage participation in cycling with improved parks, roadways and private facilities. The official website is www.bikeroswell.com.

Media Information:
Jackie Tyson, Marketing and Media Relations, Peloton Sports
phone: 678.362.6228, fax: 770.753.4770, jbt@pelotonsports.net

GAP Banquet  From Walt Bready: "The 2005 GAP Series Awards event has been scheduled for Sunday, February 19, 2006 and will be held at Hembree Park. The park is located at 850 Hembree Road - Roswell, Georgia 30075. Doors will open at 1:30pm and award presentations will start at 2:00pm. Admission is free.

Check the list of winners on the GAP homepage, www.georgiamountainbikeseries.org."

Silver Comet News From PATH: "Two More Silver Comet Miles
Hats off to the Georgia Department of Transportation! The D.O.T. left enough room between the new US 278 and the tracks west of Rockmart for us to build the Silver Comet Trail a little closer to Cedartown. PATH will begin construction on this 2.2 mile segment in January. When this extension is done, the gap in the Comet between Rockmart and Cedartown will be less than ten miles.

PATH will begin work early next year in Cedartown to close the gap by two additional miles. PATH and the Georgia Rails-into-Trails group, led by Joe Anderson, have assembled right-of-way for the Comet and donated it to the State. The Georgia General Assembly, with encouragement from Senator Nathan Dean, allocated $500,000 in 2004 for this project. PATH will match this with $150,000 from your donations to complete these two miles, leaving an eight mile gap in the trail.

Ed McBrayer, Director of PATH, and Joe Anderson are calling on property owners along the eight mile gap this winter in an attempt to assemble right-of-way for the Comet. What we’d give for another abandoned railroad...."