October 2008 Archive
10-1-2008 Upcoming
Events with Krista Park Riding & Racing Tips from Krista Park,
Pro-Mountain Biker
Thursday, October 9th
Peachtree Bikes @ 7:00pm
Hooky Day in Ellijay
Thursday, October 16th, Meet @ 10am, RTR @ 10:30am
Bear Creek/Pinhoti
Women's Only MTB Clinic with Pro Mountain Biker Krista Park and Sorella's
Laina Hamilton
Yellow River Mountain Bike Festival
October 18th, 2008 9am-12pm
Thanks! Krista Park, http://kristapark.blogspot.com/
Velodrome Certification Class Calling All Road and MTB Racers Dick Lane Velodrome is proud to announce that we will be running a condensed Beginner class for currently catergorized road and mtb racers. Min requirements are Category 3 and above Men road racers, Category 2 and above Women road racers and Cat 1 or Expert and above MTB racers. The goal of the condensed program is to provide an opportunity for riders with race experience to become track certified sooner than was previously available. Track bikes are provided for those that don't own one and cost of the class is $60. The first date of the class will be Saturday October 18th starting at 10am and should run until about 4:30pm. You can sign up online at www.dicklanevelodrome.com or you can pay on the day. You can also keep abreast of any changes on the website. We are also planning a date in November.
Carter Road Vandalism Beware! There have been some car windows smashed at the Carter Rd. trailhead of the Silver Comet. Nothing has been stolen; it looks more like vandalism.
Boys and Girls Club Mountain Bikes Stolen in Dahlonega What scuzbucket would do such a thing to the kids? The article was in Dahlonega's The Daily Citizen.
10-2-2008 Riding & Racing Tips from Krista Park, Pro-Mountain Biker
Thursday, October 9th Peachtree Bikes @ 7:00pm
Join Krista Park of Team Kenda Titus Hayes for an informative talk about
topics ranging from bike setup, training, race strategy, recovery,
nutrition. Pizza and beer will be served!
Krista has been racing for over 7 years and because pro several years ago,
traveling full time with her husband, Todd in their motor home. This year
she finished 12th overall in the National Mountain Bike Series for both
short-track and cross country. Anyone and everyone is welcome to attend. See
you there and please spread the word!
Reasons You Should Cycle For Parkinsons
Saturday, October 4 Road Race in Dacula and Sunday,October 5 Criterium in
Lawrenceville
Event website:
www.fraziercycling.com, on-line registration closes Friday noon
Contact: cfrazier@fraziercycling.com
1. If you are local, then you can race at home.
2. If you are from out-of-town, we now have gas and a race hotel .5 miles
from the crit.
3. It is the final race event of the season. Last chance to race.
4. Top View Sports (Gwinnett Fest) and Frazier Cycling produce top quality
races.
5. Race Amenities:
* T-shirts for all racers designed by Advertising Design agency
* Podium and medals/plaques for all cat winners
* Inflatibles for kids (Sunday)
* Complimentary water, powerade and energy bars/gels (Sunday)
* Complimentary blood pressure checks (Sunday 10 - 2)
* Complimentary team/family/individual casual shots taken by professional
caliber photographer
* Convenient Parking close to registration and staging
* Army of friendly volunteers in yellow
* Efficient registration
6. An opportunity to race for a cause.
If you cannot race, please consider a donation (www.fraziercycling.com) to
the American Parkinsons Disease Association. Help us "ease the burden, find
the cure".
Atlanta Cycling Ride Times Change Just a reminder that the ride times
are changing . . . . weekday rides move to 6:00 for October and Saturday’s
Six Flags moves to 10:00. YES, this Saturday 10:00. . . Six Flags . . .
And, beginning in November - March . . . Tuesdays and Thursdays 4:30 from
the Vinings store at winter pace.
Beginning October:
Monday- Vinings Recovery Ride 6:00
Tuesday – Vinings Women’s Ride 6:00
-Ansley Beginners 6:00
Wednesday – Vinings Silver Lake 6:00
-Ansley Go West 6:00
Thursday- Vinings Beginners 6:00
-Bellyache 6:00
Saturday – Vinings Six Flags 10:00
Saturday – Vinings Loop In-Town !0:00
10-3-2008 Team
BI-LO wins Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness Award
GREENVILLE, S.C. (October 2, 2008) – Team BI-LO announced their win of the
South Carolina Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness Award for 2008. Team
BI-LO, the Upstate’s largest women’s cycling team, won the Community Award,
which recognizes an organization or group that encourages and promotes
physical activity in the community.
Teammates Cissy Fowler and Jennifer Young were ushered onto the field
between the 1st and 2nd quarters of the University of South Carolina
football game last Saturday night to accept the award from DHEC Commissioner
Earl Hunter, Executive Director Jay Daniels from the Governor's Council on
Physical Fitness, and Susan Duncan with the Governor's Office .
Criteria for winning the award included providing community-based
educational programs and other events for the public and serving as a
models, leaders, and advocates for promoting physical activity and healthy
lifestyles. Dr. Fowler, a professor of anthropology at Wofford University,
says “Team BI-LO was the perfect candidate for this award because of the
women’s cycling education seminars we taught over the winter, our support of
the Greenville Spinners Time Trial Series races, and the Women on Wheels
(WOW) no-drop beginner rides we led every Thursday from Furman University
this year.”
Although the 16 women on the 2008 Team BI-LO squad spent over 1500 hours
this year on these and other volunteer endeavors like children’s bike safety
and charity rides, they didn’t forget about racing. In 2008, Team BI-LO won
South Carolina State Championship races in Road, Criterium, and Mountain
Biking and won regional series titles for both on-road and X-Terra
triathlons.
While supported by many national sponsors like Michelin and PowerBar, Team
BI-LO owes much of its success to the following local partners: BI-LO,
Southeastern Paper Group, Ryobi, Horton Law Firm, The Cunningham Team Re/Max
Realty, Headquarters Day Spa, The Great Escape, Sunshine Cycle Shop, Gusto
Cycles, Fleet Feet, Steve Fincher Photography, Aerie Engineering, Brown
Chiropractic Center, North Main Yoga, and Hawthorne Massage.
Team Bi-Lo
New Women's Ride On Tuesdays Free Flite-East Cobb. 10:00 am. Beginner/Intermediate Women's Road Ride. Meet at the East Cobb Free Flite Store. This will be a no drop ride. You should be comfortable riding on the road. The ride will be 18-20 miles and will rotate routes. The ride will go through the winter. Contact Chris at the store at 770-977-9696.
Happy Anniversary! Happy Anniversary Chocolate Girl and Raja!!! Here's to 20 more wonderful years for you two!
Thieves Caught The thieves that stole the bikes from the Boys and Girls Club in Dahlonega have been caught. They were just kids themselves! Sad....
10-6-2008 Shorter Days The days are getting shorter, and it's getting dark towards the end of most of the group rides. Please don't forget your blinkie lights and a headlight. It's not dorky; it could prevent you from becoming a hood ornament! Most LBS's carry a good selection of lights.
The new kiosk at the Sara Babb Mountain Bike Trailhead. Photo courtesy of SORBA Paulding.
Help Rebuild Arrowhead! Help rebuild the trails at Arrowhead by purchasing raffle tickets for a Fisher Calibre 29ner.
Hunting Schedule for N. GA Pulled from the SORBA forum: Lots of
popular mountain bike trails are located in
Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs)
and subject to being closed on certain dates during the fall and winter
hunting seasons. According to this document, here are dates for the areas
that might affect bikers.
Blue Ridge WMA (Bull and Jake Mountain trails)
Closed all day: Oct 23-25, Nov 26-29, Dec 17-20
Closed before 10AM: Sept 13-Oct 17, Mar 21-May 15
Cohutta WMA (Bear Creek, Pinhoti 1, Mountaintown, Windy Gap, Milma, Tibbs)
no mention of trail closures, but be aware of these dates
Firearms: Oct 9-12, Dec 3-7
Archery and Turkey (usually means trails closed until 10AM): Sept 13-Oct 7,
Oct 13-17, Mar 21-May 15
Pine Log WMA
Closed all day: Nov 19-22, Dec 11-14
Closed before 10AM: Sept 13-Oct 17, Mar 21-May 15
Rich Mountain WMA (aka Stanley Gap)
Closed before 10AM: Sept 13-Dec 7, Dec 26-Jan 1, Mar 21-May 15
A Reality Bikes Rider in the Men's 1/2 race.
Dahlonega Cyclocross Photos I have a bunch of photos up of the Dahlonega Cyclocross. The rest will be up by Monday night.
Dahlonega Women's Photos Did anyone get any photos of the Women's A race at Dahlonega? Email me at sttarlite@hotmail.com.
Jamie Higgins (Sorella Cycling) in her first cross race in the Women's B.
m
What racers will do for recovery--sit is a freezing cold mountain water creek
in place of an ice bath. Brrr!
Sponoring the Cross Series Southeastern Cycling is a Bronze Sponsor of the Georgia Cross Series! Next up is Savannah. Don't forget about the flyover!!
10-7-2008 Dahlonega Cross Results are Up The cross results are up!
Cartecay Ride Time to break out the old school mountain bikes and
join Cartecay Bikes for a most excellent day of riding at the Carter's Lake
Ridgeway boat ramp area. We plan on rocking the Carter's Lake Beginner
Downhill Course on old school mountain bikes (Shuttle Runs). Maybe even the
classic Carter's Lake XC Course if anyone is interested. Lets see some of
that retro gear! Mountain Bikes from 1995 and older. Bring a dish to share!
Hang out and shoot the breeze with some mtb fanatics! More fun than you can
handle... and ofcourse in Cartecay fashion, expect the unexpected! Come out
and have fun! Sunday, October 26th 10am Carter's Lake Ridgeway Bike Parking
lot!
Need more info? Contact Cartecay Bikes 706-635-2453
Gone Riding Preview Here is the
Gone Riding 2009 Preview.
Yellow Ricer Night Ride From SORBA GATR: Friday night Oct 10 is the
next Gwinnett County
sanctioned
night ride at Yellow River. The group will meet at 7:30 in the mountain
bike parking lot to saddle up and head out. By county requirement we will
ride as a group(s) to ensure everyone is
safe and exits without incident. If turnout is sufficient we will split into
multiple groups by ability. Based on past turnout we have typically split
into at least 2 groups and usually 3. There will be enough GATR
representatives to lead as many groups as necessary.
If you are interested but do not have lights make a post here. Its likely
that someone will be able to help out and provide some number of
lights to those in need. Look forward to having a BIG turnover and a lot of
fun! This ride is open to ALL levels of ability!
10-8-2008 Suches Store I have read a few places that the Suches Store on 3 Gap has reopened with a limited inventory, but they have water. The owner, Dale, passed away a few weeks ago. He provided a rest stop for many riders, drivers, and motorcyclists in the Gaps for years.
-
Trish Albert (Team Medplan) runs up the stairs. Photo by Chris Lewis.
Saul Raisin addresses the riders at the start of the Raisin Hope ride on Saturday in Dalton.
10-9-2008 Follow Up to Gun Incident A few weeks ago Josh Boggs had a gun pointed at him while riding in the Hickory Flats area of Cherokee County. The Cherokee County Ledger published an article on it this week.
10-10-2008 Chicopee Work Party From SORBA Woodstock Join us for a work party on Saturday, October 18th at 9:00 AM at the Chicopee Woods MTB parking lot. We'll be working on the new Copperhead (Zig Zag) reroutes. Please dress appropriate for the weather and wear closed toe shoes (Hiking/work boots recommended) . Bring gloves, water and snacks for 4 hours of work. All tools will be provided as well as lunch. Bring your bike and we may ride what we work on after lunch! Thanks for your support!
Off to Cinci I'm off to Cincinnati, OH for 2 UCI races. I'll have limited access to email if you need to get in touch with me.
10-13-2008 Cinci UCI Photos If you are coming over from Cyclingnews.com and want to see the rest of the Cincinnati UCI Cyclocross photos, I will have them up by Tuesday night. It's a LONG drive from Cinci back to Atlanta, and I'm dealing with an injury sustained in my race this weekend. Please be patient. Thanks!
NC News From Charlotte Sports Cycling NC Cyclo-Cross Series - Kicks
off on October 18
Upcoming events http://www.nccyclocross.com/
***********************************************
Saturday November 8th
9:30 AM: In conjunction with the opening of Uptown Cycles powered by
TotalcyclistFirst, the crew would like to promote the first Winter Bike
League ride of the 2009 season with Frankie Andreu, Jeff Hopkins and the
coaches of Totalcyclist.
The ride will be slow paced ride with a no drop policy and a distance of 40
miles. The ride will be a show and go ride at 9:30AM and will not be
supported. There will be refreshments after the ride.
For more info on the ride, visit www.totalcyclist.com
***********************************************
Charlotte Development Cyclo-Cross Series presented by Trek Bikes of
Charlotte
In effort to generate more interest in cyclo-cross racing, Charlotte Sports
Cycling has teamed up with the new Trek Bikes of Charlotte to host a Tuesday
night cyclo-cross series kicking off this fall at North Meck Park in
Huntersville.
The plan is to open the course at 5pm for riding and training with cyclo-cross
guru Bob Pugh. The first set of races will start at 6:15pm and the second
set of races will start at 7pm. Tentative dates for the event are Tuesdays,
Nov 11, 18 and 25 and Dec 2.
Much more info to come soon.
***********************************************
3rd Annual Bank of NC Short Track Series
The 3RD ANNUAL BANK OF NC SHORT TRACK SERIES is set to kick off Saturday,
November 8th at the Town Park in Harrisburg, NC. This exciting 5 race series
has been created as a compliment to Neal Boyd's Winter Series held at
Renaissance Park, and to further short track racing in the Charlotte, North
Carolina region. All races are on Saturday: November 8, 15, 22 and December
6 & 13th. November 15 and December 6th will be Night Races presented by the
new Uptown Cycles and NiteRider technical lighting systems. New night race
t-shirts by Uptown Cycles and great prizes from NiteRider will be special
features of the night races. Full information on the series and the night
races can be found on www.charlottemtnbike.com . When you race in the Bank
of NC series, you Race for a Cause. This year all proceeds go to fight POLIO
and to fund ALZHEIMER'S research through Rotary International, and to
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY. Whether a first-time Beginner or a seasoned Expert,
the racing is great
in Harrisburg. Come on out and give it a try!
See you on the bike. Neal
www.charlottesportscycling.com
Brady Rogers to the White Courtesy Phone Brady, email me! sttarlite@hotmail.com
10-14-2008 Macon CX Clinic If you ever had the interest in Cross or would like to try your hand at it with out paying an entry fee, Come to the Childrens home Oct 28th and see what it is all about. Mountain bikes are welcome, Things will get started at 9:30am with basic skills. Then when we think we have an idea of what to do we will do a few race efforts starting at 10:30ish.. Look forward to seeing ya
Airport Ride Information Beginning Saturday November 1, the Tucker
ride begins at 10 AM On Sunday November 2,the Airport Loop ride commences.
Start time is 10 AM from the Trinity Lofts area. Short option is 42 miles.
Long option is 62 miles. The long option includes a 10 minute nature break
at the 11 mile mark just after turning left off HWY 29.It also includes a 15
minute store stop in Palmetto. Feel free to forward this information to any
clubs, teams, groups, and organizations.
Katie Compton (Spike) wins the Java Johnny's UCI Race in Cincinnati, OH.
Women's Clinic Anyone who is not helping set up for the cross race,
reality bikes is putting on a women's clinic w/Tina Pic and Iona Wynter
Parks. Not sure about the setup times for the cross race, maybe you can do
both?!
Here's the info:
REALITY BIKES is honored to have Tina Pic & Iona Wynter Parks join us from
the Colavita/SutterHome Professional Cycling Team to lead our next Women's
Clinic on November 1st.This is an on-the-bike, riding skills clinic.
Tina's cycling accomplishments are well-documented for cycling enthusiasts
everywhere and are far too many to list them all. She's a Gold medal winner
at the Pan American games and has won the most prestigious US Criterium
National Championships a record 5 times. Her name is synonymous with woman's
cycling allover the world.
Iona is one of the most accomplished athletes racing in the North American
women's peloton. She is a former Olympic Triathlete,Olympic Road racer, and
currently the Jamaican pursuit record holder and the Central American &
Caribbean Scratch Champion on the track.
http://www.teamcolavita.com
The clinic will be a full riding clinic with a short discussion beforehand.
Bring your bike, your gear and get ready to ride. Points that will be
covered:
* Riding in a pack (do's and don'ts)
* Riding 2 abreast
* Pace Lines
* Hills - climbing and descending (hand-positions, gear selection, sitting
vs. standing.)
* Cornering
When: Saturday Nov 1st, 8:50am
Where: Reality Bikes
* We will serve breakfast and have coffee from Starbucks starting at 8:50am.
* The short discussion will start at 9:10am.
* The ride clinic will begin at 9:30am.
Whether,you are Triathlete, a road rider, or new to the sport of cycling,
this clinic is a must to attend. Iona and Tina are amazing athletes, but
most importantly they are amazing people. They are friendly, intelligent,
and will provide great insight to the world of cycling for woman. There is
no skill level requirement for this clinic. However, you must be able to
ride a distance of at least 28miles. A road bike, Tri bike or flat-bar-road
bike is recommended. The clinic will be conducted along our famous Wednesday
night loop. This route provides the types of terrain required to teach the
various skills of the clinic. This is a great way to master all the
fundamentals of cycling.
We ask that everyone please RSVP by October 29th for two reasons. 1) We will
be emailing a couple of short handouts for everyone to read before coming to
the clinic and 2) we need to plan accordingly for the number of
participants. Please contact us with any questions. If you would like to be
added to our Evite Women's Clinic List, please email Eric directly at:
ericneely@realitybikes.com
Cinci Photos are Up My Cincinnati UCI Cyclocross Weekend photos are up at http://sadlebred.smugmug.com.
Jeremiah Bishop (Trek) bunny hops the barriers at the Java Johnny's UCI Race.
10-15-2008Georgia
Bicycle Racing Association News From GBRA: I wanted to pass along
along some key discussion items from the recent Georgia Bicycle Racing
Association (GBRA) meeting, which was the first one for the newly elected
board of directors. The board is eager to begin work on several issues
facing bike racing in Georgia and will be soliciting the help of all racers
in the state to make the needed changes to help continue to keep our sport
growing, safe, and challenging for all levels.
First off, the GBRA association reports that the organization is in good
financial shape and we will have the opportunity to once again provide
support for local activities which helps encourage the growth of the sport.
The organization was able to provide a limited number of bikes to the East
Point Track last year, provides state championship jerseys for 2008, and
also assisted the Georgia Cyclo-cross series with free races for juniors.
The GBRA is currently soliciting ideas for funding various projects for the
upcoming 2009 year, so if you have an idea for something which will help
foster growth of the sport, increase junior participation at races, or
increase women's racing, then please contact the GBRA association, Mr. John
Patterson at kb4slv at bellsouth.net
On the subject of growth of the sport, a GBRA Growth Committee is being
formed to help figure out what efforts the board and the race community can
take to help bring increased numbers of juniors, women, and new riders into
the sport. Some of the ideas being considered is to set aside a small block
of time at 3-4 races during the upcoming season for complete beginners to
learn how to race and ask local experienced Cat 1/2 racers to lead these
clinics. Another idea is to provide juniors and women with guaranteed race
classes which will eliminate having to race against more competitive fields.
If you are interested in becoming involved with these efforts and wish to
participate on this committee or just have ideas, please contact Ms. Kelli
Rogan kellirogan bellsouth.net
Finally, there is some discussion taking place on trying to set up a state
point series in which any race can potentially request to participate and be
involved. There are currently no plans in place for trying to set this up
and there would need to be some serious discussion on who could maintain the
database of series points, along with many other questions. Hopefully, there
are some racers interested in providing their thoughts on this topic so
please contact Mr. Jeff Wright at jeffw at jkifabrication.com, whom is
heading this GA Points Series Committee.
Chris Hurst, GBRA Board Member (Racer Representative)
SAVANNAH SUPERPRESTIGE CYCLOCROSS RACE is around the corner! So, dust
off the rig and pullout your best duds ‘cause this course will create
memories- good and bad……………….Be prepared to ride over the South East’s very
own Flyover, test your skills at Snake Ridge, and get a thrill on the
Whoopty-doos(pending construction)! Did you say you like MUD?!? Try your
hand at it in Peanut Butter Alley- The name says it all! And for those that
like to test their abilities with sand, the Forty-yard Dash is for YOU! DJ
Josh Barrett (DJB) will be on-hand spinning tunes for your listening
pleasure………. and plan to stop by the Belgian Waffle Stand and donate money
for a waffle. Best of all, Royal Restrooms has provided a shower trailer!
That’s right, a restroom/shower trailer so you won’t need to drive home
stinky!
Make plans to be at Oglethorpe Speedway Park Sunday October 19th for the
race to start your season off right! Further information can be found at
www.georgia-cross.com or by calling 912-508-2560. See you there!
2009 NRC Schedule The
2009 NRC Schedule has been released. Dates in the Southeast include:
May 2 Sunny King Criterium, Anniston, AL
www.sunnykingcrit.com
May 3 Nalley Historic Roswell Criterium Roswell, GA
www.nalleyhrc.com
May 7-10 Joe Martin Stage Race Fayetteville, AR
www.allsportsproductionsinc.com
Aug. 8 Presbyterian Hospital Invitational Charlotte, NC
www.charlottecriterium.com
Aug. 9 Hanes Park Classic Winston Salem, NC
www.cyclesafe.org
Sept. 7 US 100k Classic Atlanta, GA www.10k.org
Sope Creek Meetings The National Parks Service has released the
Supplemental Draft General Management Plan / Environmental Impact Statement,
which evaluates six alternatives for the future management of the
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. It defines the strategies that
will allow for diverse visitor use of the Chattahoochee River National
Recreation Area, protect park resources, and provide for the enjoyment of
the people. SORBA supports the preferred Alternative F, as it allows for
increased off-road trail riding in the park. Review the plan documents and
register your input at http://parkplanning.nps.gov. Under the "Choose a
Park" drop-down window, find Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
and then click "Go".
Public input meetings are scheduled, and we ask that you attend one of these
meetings, if possible. Let's get mountain bikes riding throughout the park!
October 27, 2008
6:00-8:00 p.m. Pinckneyville Park Community Center
4650 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard
Norcross, GA 30071
October 30, 2008
6:00-8:00 p.m. Chattahoochee Nature Center
9135 Willeo Road
Roswell, GA 30075
The public comment period for this document will last for 60 days after the
Environmental Protection Agency's notice of availability has been published
in the Federal Register. Readers are encouraged to send written comments
electronically, or by mail using the following contact information: National
Park Service/Attn: Dan R. Brown/Superintendent/1978 Island Ford
Parkway/Atlanta, GA 30350-3400.
You may enter electronic comments directly through the Internet by directing
your web browser to the following URL address: http://parkplanning.nps.gov.
Under the "Choose a Park" drop-down window, find Chattahoochee River
National Recreation Area and then click "Go". Before including your address,
phone number, e-mail address, or other personal identifying information in
your comment, you should be aware that your entire comment, including your
personal identifying information, may be made publicly available at anytime.
While you can ask us in your comment to withhold your personal identifying
information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to
do so.
The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area Supplemental Draft General
Management Plan / Environmental Impact Statement will be available for
comment for 60 days following publication of notification in the Federal
Register. Substantive comments will then be analyzed and addressed in the
Final General Management Plan / Environmental Impact Statement. The Final
General Management Plan/Environmental Impact Statement will be released and,
following a 30-day period of time subsequent to the release, a record of
decision approving a final plan will be signed by the National Park Service
regional director. With the signed record of decision, the plan can then be
implemented, depending on funding and staffing.
10-16-2008 Lake Arrowhead Work Parties The Lake Arrowhead trails in Macon were destroyed by the spring tornados earlier this year. Come out with OMBA on Dec. 6-7 and Dec. 20-21 for work parties to help start rebuilding the trails. Don't forget about the raffle OMBA is having to help raise money to rebuild the trails.
Another Photo Even the Pros are hearing about Southeastern Cycling! Jeremiah Bishop is featuring one of my photos on his blog. (Photo used with my permission.) Just a reminder that if you want to use one of my photos on your blog or webpage, I charge a very nominal fee (really, it's cheap! I know we are all broke cyclists!), and permission must be obtained.
GA Promoters-State Races Bids Due Nov. 1 From GBRA: The Deadline for Promoters submitted bids for hosting the Georgia State Championships (Time Trial, Criterium, & Road) is November 1, 2008. Application forms and information can be obtained by contacting John Patterson at kb4slv@bellsouth.net.
10-17-2008 Scott Hodge in Serious Condition For those of you that know Scott Hodge of Addictive Cycles in Braselton, he was in a motorcycle accident on Wednesday. He's in the hospital ICU with fractured C3 and C4 vertebrae. The good news is that he can feel and wiggle all of his extremeties. He will undergo surgery soon to stabilize the fractures. 55 Nine Performance is taking a collection to help the Hodge family. Scott has a wife and two very young daughters. He will be out of commission for quite a while. Scott is a huge supporter of mountain biking in Georgia, especially the Single Speed State Championships. Get well soon, Hodge!
Chris Baker Hit By A Car This has not been a good year for cyclists on the road in Atlanta. It is very sad news that I report Chris Baker, an avid cyclist, was killed while riding his bike. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers. I will post anything else I hear.
This is an email from Mark Lindberg. "I write this email with a heavy heart.
This is news that no one every wants to hear about. A very dear cycling
friend to all of us, Chris Baker, was killed while bicycle commuting to work
yesterday- Oct 15. He was only several blocks away from his home.' He was
frequently on many area group rides- including- Pizza Ride, Tucker, Airport,
and he had started a group ride out of Outback Bikes each Sunday that did
Airport ride or other options.
He is a Former Army Ranger and he leaves behind, Susan Baker, who he has
been married to for many, many years. His nickname’s are “old man” and
“junior” among others, and has always had a smile. For those of you
unfamiliar with some riders- b/c of bike kits- he had Jittery Joes painted
orange Klein bicycle (or sometimes his commuter bike), short grayish hair,
mustache, stocky and strong build, and is approximately 60 years old. He’s
been a warm spirit and fixture on the Atlanta group cycling ride scene for
many years.
A service will be held in Dahlonega this Monday. Details forthcoming. If
anyone would like to send thoughts or wishes to Susan Baker she can be
reached at: Susan Baker, 35 Laurel Heights Dr., Dahlonega, Ga. 30533".
Did You Lose Keys In Buckhead Were you running or riding in Buckhead
near "Amen Row" (Peachtree Bikes/Fellinis/ La Fonda) near Cherokee St. in
the last few days? A few of us were riding tonight and found what looked
like a cyclist's or runner's car keys. The keyring is an orange caribener
with writing on it. There is also a Bill Heard Chevrolet key ring. Email me
at sttarlite@hotmail.com if it's
yours.
10-18-2008 Hodge
Update From the SORBA Forum: "Just got a call from Matt. The good news
is NO SURGERY!! The doc says
he can use a collar. Matt said Scott is in very good spirits. This is great
news and will obviously shorten the recovery time. Keep the
good vibes, prayers, and well-wishes coming!"
Chris Baker Memorial Service Mark Lindberg will will be collecting
any cards, wishes, anything else, that you might want to pass onto Chris
Baker’s family at the following rides this weekend: Saturday: Tucker- 9AM
start- Tucker High School Sunday: Outback Bikes- 9AM start- a ride in honor
and memory of Chris Baker. He will take these up to Dahlonega, to Susan
Baker, on Monday.
The funeral for Chris Baker will be: Monday Oct 13, 2008 at 2:00 PM, Location: http://www.dahlonegaumc.org/ Dahlonega United Methodist Church, 107 S. Park Street, Dahlonega, GA 30533, Main Number: (706) 864-2521
AJC Article on Chris Click here.
Chris Baker Memorial Ride The Sunday Outback ride this week will be dedicated to Chris. "Please join us on Sunday Oct 19th to ride in honor and memory of the ride Chris has been leading over the past few years. The ride will leave from Outback Bikes in Little Five Points at 9:00am. http://www.outback-bikes.com/directions.htm
Bike Sale While supplies last, Velo Vie is closing out their Vitesse
300 carbon frame (930 grams) and fork! The original web price is $1799. Now,
$1250 (including ground shipping to the southeast)! This is a savings of 30%
plus with no sales tax, this brings the savings to 40% off retail! · Trade
in the frame at the two year anniversary and get a new frame for 40% off
retail.
Click here for the Vitesse 300 specs.
· Lifetime crash replacement
· Crash replacements, warranties and exchanges follow the frame and not the
buyer!
If you want a complete bike, email for pricing. Teams wanted! If your team
would like great pricing and the opportunity to make money, please send me
an e-mail. travis@travissherman.com for details! To get this pricing you
must email Travis or call Travis at 205-602-6308.
Another Georgia Cyclist Killed Near Eastman From Macon.com.
Brewery Parking This Weekend From JoAnn Powell: The Brewery is
preparing for their Blues Beer and BBQ company picnic this Saturday
afternoon and has asked cyclists to please park in the north lot, left side
The south lot may be closed. Please remember to park in the far corner to
give employees the best parking options. Please pass this on to all groups
you know that park at the Anheuser Busch Brewery in Cartersville.
Also, they are keeping their ears out for tackers from sources in the
neighborhood. Thanks to all that ride from the Brewery and respect our
privilege to park and ride in the beautiful surrounding countryside. Also,
thanks to all who participated in the Beautiful Backroads Century bike ride
from the Brewery. $32,000 was raised for the Hickory Log Vocational School
in White, Georgia. Way to go, cyclists!
Another Hodge Update From
Namrita O'Dea: Scott Hodge update 10/17 3pm In case you haven't
heard, Scott Hodge from Addictive Cycles had a bad motorcycle crash
yesterday ...
Hodge is still in ICU at Atlanta Medical center but may be discharged in the
next few days. He must be signed out by the Thoracic Surgeon and the other
doctors as well before he can go home. Scott suffered the following injuries
from the motorcycle crash: C6 vertebrae fracture (holding and should heal on
its' own), C7 fractured in half but is not separating (he will have to wear
a compression collar to keep it immobilized). If the C7 begins to separate
they will have to do immediate surgery. C5 is also fractured and causing the
most pain but it will heal on it's own. Healing time for the fractures is
estimated at 3 to 6 months (if he follows the doctors directions). And we
all know Hodge, that will be tough. His lungs are bruised which has made
breathing a little difficult, 1 broken rib and his hip is sore and bruised
from hitting the pavement. In an effort to help (because Scott was
uninsured), please donate below to help with his medical bills. Scott has
been there to help all of us at one time or another and I hope we can be
there for him. He is a great guy and he has wonderful and caring friends!
THANK YOU FOR ALL THE DONATIONS SO FAR!!! Thanks, Namrita. Trish's Note:
You can donate here.
10-20-2008 Savannah Cross Thanks to Brian Schoeffler and crew for a fun course in Savannah this weekend!
Becca Phelan on her way to winning the Women's B Race in Savannah
Nate Sibley (Peachtree Bikes) and Oscar Clark (Kudzu-FFCC) go through the finish with one lap to go in the Men's A in Savannah.
First Annual Athens Bike Swap Saturday, October 25, 2008, 11am - 2pm,
Tifosi Optics Headquarters,1051 Industrial Blvd. Watkinsville, GA Pro teams
will be unloading bikes, components, clothing and accessories for unheard of
deals and the three bike shops in the Athens area will all be present with
their killer deals. Come check it out and bring cash--you won't want to miss
these deals!
Equipment from Louis Garneau, Specialized, Shimano, Cane Creek, Hincapie,
SRAM, Shimano, Easton, Sidi, Profile Design, Zero Gravity, Kestrel,
Thompson, and more. 1/2 mile from the start of the Jittery Joe's Fall
Classic Century
Savannah Photos All Savannah CX Photos will be up by Monday night at http://sadlebred.smugmug.com.
Chris Baker Memorial Fund If you would like to make a donation to the
Chris Baker Memorial Fund, please send a check to
David Woodsfellow, trustee, The Chris Baker Memorial Fund, 2801 Buford
Highway, Suite 295, Atlanta, GA 30329, Checks should be made out to "Chris
Baker Memorial Fund".
10-21-2008
Savannah Photos All Savannah Photos are up at
http://sadlebred.smugmug.com. As
always, I got every division.
Rome Cross Preview From the promoter: Rome will hold its first
cyclocross race on Sunday, November 9, 2008. The course is situated in
downtown at the confluence of the Oostanaula and Etowah rivers and a portion
of the course runs along the Coosa river. The highlight of the course will
be multiple ascensions of the levee. The course will pass back and forth
over the levee no less than 3 times each lap. Other obstacles will be a
sandpit and culvert crossing beside the river and fast, flat sections to
transition back to the levee. Total course length will be about 1.5 miles.
Rome/Floyd Parks and Recreation will have concessions on site, as well as
restroom facilities. The entire course (except the river section) will be
visible from the levee, so spectator viewing is awesome. Our prize list is a
little non-traditional but plenty of cycling goods are up for grabs. Picture
attached is the levee view from inside the course. Sorry could not get a
bike in. This Sunday I will have some more with bikes.
The Rome CX Levy. Photo courtesy Georgia Cross.
Hodge Update I have it on good rumor that Hodge is going home from the hospital.
Raffle for Scott Hodge From Dirty Spokes:
Racers:
I hope you are doing great! Just wanted to touch base and ask a favor... as
you know we put on 12/6 Hour Mountain Bike Races as well as the XTERRA
Georgia Trail Running Races - one of our bike shop sponsors (for our
mountain bike races) is Addictive Cycles, Braselton, Ga. They are huge
supporters of our events and offer "neutral support" (help fix the bikes
during the races - for free to the racers / participants) at all of our
mountain bike races. The co-owner of the shop - Scott Hodge got into a
pretty bad motorcycle accident a few nights ago - he is alive and has
movement in all of his limbs but ended up breaking / fracturing his C5, C6
and C7 vertebrae along with a broken rib and bruised lung - good news is
they are trying to postpone surgery (hopefully the vertebrae will heal on
their own and not need surgery - he will have to wear a compression collar
to keep it immobilized). From what we understand if the vertebrae begin to
separate they will have to do immediate surgery.
I am contacting you to let you know we will be conducting a raffle at the
race (Raffle Tickets $10.00 Each - ALL PROCEEDS going back to Scott Hodge /
Family)... some of our sponsors have really stepped up big to help with the
raffle - Inov-8 (donating a couple of shoe certificates, Inov-8 jacket, race
packs with bladders, etc...), Big Peach Running Company ($50.00 Gift Cert.
In Store Purchase), XTERRA (XTERRA Gear - Paul Mitchell), Tifosi Optics (Tifosi
Glasses), RYDE Productions (TBA), others TBA as we receive confirmation. The
raffle will be conducted at the November 8th, 2008 - Battle At Big Creek,
Roswell, Ga. (3.5 mile run / 7.0 mile run). We will have a "Raffle Table"
set up and will be run by the Roswell Area Mountain Bike Organization
(RAMBO) you can purchase a ticket(s) race day - before the race. We will
take all of the proceeds and donate them to Scott's family to use as they
need (medical bills, meals, etc. in this time of need).
I am 100% not trying to put you on the spot - if you are in a position to
help - awesome - if not, we totally understand. This is just a good
opportunity for us to help some good people when they are in a time of need.
I really appreciate your time and consideration. I will talk to you soon!
See you at the race! Thanks, Tim Schroer
www.dirtyspokes.com
tim@dirtyspokes.com
10-22-2008 Dick
Lane Velodrome Beginner's Class Dick Lane Velodrome will be
hosting a 2nd Fall Beginners Class for any rider
who wishes to become track certified and learn to ride a fixed gear. Dates
are November 22nd Sat 10am till 2pm and Sun 23rd 10am till 1pm. You must
complete both days to become certified. Cost of the class is $60 and include
loan of a bike if you need one. To sign up please contact Brian Sullivan,
brian@dicklanevelodrome.com
with your bike size or you can sign up online at
www.dicklanevelodrome.com.
Thanks, Jeff Hopkins
Funny Video The guys on the local mountain bike forum are a creative bunch. NSFW (not safe for work).
Savannah Cross Video This is a video from the Masters 45+ race in Savannah.
Hodge's Story Hodge just posted his crash story on his blog. Glad to see he is home! I understand that there are some fundraisers in the works. I'll post them as I get details.
WSJ Article Vern Zander, a local century rider, has been profiled in the Wall Street Journal.
10-23-2008
Nightrider Light Demo The NiteRider factory truck and NiteRider event
coordinator will be in Atlanta with lots of lights to demo on a road and
mountain bike ride. The road ride will be Tues., Oct. 28 and the mountain
bike ride will be Thurs., Oct. 30. Come test out some of the best lights
around on a guided ride. If you find one you like, you can buy it for 15%
off regular retail pricing. Register to win FREE Kenda mountain bike tires
at the mountain bike demo night. The event is free, although a credit card
is required to check out the lights.
Enjoy a fun, easy ride. Socialize with other cyclists. And discover the
excitement and joy of night riding. Wendy
Here's the flyer:
http://www.peteandwendycycling.com/RideRecap/NiteRider_Demo_Event.pdf
Intermediate Women's MTB Ride Intermediate Mountain Bike Ride in BLUE
RIDGE, GA!!! October 26th - Meet at 1pm, RTR 1:30pm
Hosted by Loretta Simpson
Come enjoy the fall foliage from the ridgelines in beautiful Blue Ridge.
Practice your skills learned at the many great clinics held this year (we
can do a mini-clinic before we take off). Brew and chow to follow. This is a
no drop ride and should take approx. two hours. We will do a mix of road,
single track and double track. Bring your climbing legs. Fellas are welcome
to join us. This is a no-drop ride and should take approx two hours. Several
options available if you want to add more ride time.
Meet at 501 Stanley Creek road (family cabin) in Cherry Log. From Atlanta,
take 75N to 575N to the town of Blue Ridge. Pass Hwy 5 (MacDonald’s on Left)
Go under an overpass and make your next Right at the stop light (KFC on
Right). Dead end into a 3 way stop sign and turn Left. Make an immediate
right before cemetery onto Aska Road. Go 8.5 miles to Stanley Creek Road and
turn right. Go .5 miles and look for blue cabin in the valley on your left
(sign on mailbox says Lemmen). Contact Loretta (loretta.simpson@comcast.net)
to RSVP.
10-24-2008 Women's MTB Clinic in SC There will be a women's mtb skills clinic Nov. 9th at Paris Mountain in Greenville, SC
10-27-2008 Two Collegiate National Champions! Two of this year's collegiate National Mountain Bike Champions are from the metro Atlanta area. Carla Swart (Lees-McRace College) won the Division 1 Women's Race, and Tristan Cowie (Appalachian State) won the Men's Division 2 race. The cross country race was held in Banner Elk, NC. Congratulations!
Sorella-cross is on its way! If you have plans for this coming Sunday, Nov.2.... well, CANCEL THEM, because the party will be going on at the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers, GA Awesome racing, tons of baked goods, a costume contest and a drum line event 8) , will make this THE race to attend in 2008. See you there for GAX #3! (We will be accepting donations for Scott Hodge and his family, near the registration area. All donations will be passed on to his family to help cover medical and household expenses following his motorcycle accident. Thanks in advance.) http://www.georgia-cross.com
Jittery Joes Drops Pro Status Jittery Joes has dropped its pro team status for 2009. Plans are to regroup for 2010. For those that haven't been around, JJ's has been in existence since about 2000, starting out as the Zaxby's Cycling Team.
Louisville US Grand Prix I went to the Louisville, KY rounds of the US Cyclocross Grand Prix this weekend. See my Elite Men's and Elite Women's photos from Saturday on cyclingnews.com.
Kristin Bowers (Atomic Racing) rounds a corner on Saturday in Louisville, KY in the Elite Women's Race.
Katerina Nash (Luna) win's Saturday's Elite Women's race in Louisville, KY.
10-29-2008
Cartecay Chilly Dawg Ride November 1st, 10am meet at the Big Creek Fire
Station on Big Creek Road
just outside of Ellijay for CHILLY DAWG MANIA!! 20 and 30 mile routes using
the beautiful gravel roads of North Georgia Mtns. Join in on the fun! Big
Dawg Chef Mike will be mixing up some smokin' chili to warm the soul after
the ride!
Come out, ride & have fun... Any Questions call us, Cartecay Bikes
706-635-2453 Thanks, Kevin
Beyond Allatonna Ride Kennesaw/Beyond Allatoona, Begins Saturday 11/1. Rolls at 9 am. 55 miles with 75 mile option-Training-Definite A (18-19 mph) and B (16-17 mph) groups after restroom break. Not for casual riders. Rolling terrain from Kennesaw towards Cartersville. Course is well marked with white "CW"s. One restroom break and one store stop. Take I-75 to exit 271-Chastain Rd. Go west on Chastain Rd approximately 1/4 mile and take a left onto Town Point Dr. Bear right at first intersection and park in Pacesetter Steal parking lot-3300 Townpoint Dr. Watch out for the low-clearance bar! From I-75 and 285 expect about a 15 minute drive to the start of the ride.
Group Rides Ending Just a reminder that most group rides end this week. Also, most weekend rides move to their winter time, usually 10:00 am. Yes, the Airport ride starts this Sunday! See the ATL Rides Page for details on the Airport ride and the other winter rides.
Beginner Women's MTB Ride "The Atlanta Area Mountain Bikers Meetup
group is having a women's beginner ride at Big Creek this Sat. at 10:30 am
for anyone who is just starting out mountain biking, or needs to take it
slower and work on the basics of riding. If you are interested in meeting us
there, look for the black, red and white AAMB Meetup sign! Thanks!
Lisa, Organizer Atlanta Area Mountain Bikers Meetup
http://www.meetup.com/MTBAtlanta"
Happy Halloween!
10-30-2008
Dahlonega Cross Video Dahlonega Wheelworks has a
great video up from the
Dahlonega Cross Race a few weeks ago.
Track Class From Leigh Valletti-Hopkins: Hey Ladies, mark your
calendars for the next Fall Beginners Class, November 22nd and 23rd! The
track will be hosting a 2nd Fall Beginners Class for any rider who wishes to
become track certified and learn to ride a fixed gear. Jeff, Brian, and I
will be there ready to help you out. Dates are Saturday, November 22nd 10am
till 2pm and Sunday the 23rd, 10am till 1pm. You must complete both days to
become certified. Cost of the class is $60 and includes loaner of a bike if
you need one. To sign up please contact Brian Sullivan, brian@dicklanevelodrome.com
with your bike size or you can sign up online at the fees page but please
include a note with your frame size.
If for some reason you can't make this class, there will be another offered
in the early spring (date TBD). But I encourage everyone to take advantage
of the fantastic winter training that the track has to offer by taking this
class NOW! Also, please let as many potentially interested women know about
the class, we really want to ensure a super strong women's presence at the
track in 2009!
http://www.dicklanevelodrome.com/
10-31-2008 Hodge
Benefit Ride From the BODers: "Hey folks as I'm sure most
everyone knows our dear friend Scott Hodge was involved in a motorcycle
accident that has left him laid up with some pretty serious injuries as well
as medical expenses. So we're going to be doing a benefit ride to help out
with some of those expenses. The details are as such...
Sat. November 8th at Fort Yargo, we're going to shoot for a 12:00 (high
noon) start time for the rides. We're doing a later start for a few reasons,
one it's getting on towards winter and this will allow things to warm up a
bit for the riding and two we've had folks from some pretty far away places
express interest and we want to give them the ability to join us!
We will have rides furnished with ride leaders for all abilities! If you
want to just do a short easy lap we will have someone for you. If you want
to go out and hammer 50 miles, we will have someone there for you as well!
Please we're asking for everyone with every ability to come out, whether you
just want to ride around the parking lot or experience all that Fort Yargo
has to offer, we want you to feel welcome to join in the fun. After the ride
we will have food available for everyone and the new local and rising band
Hammer Down has agreed to come play for us! And if that wasn't enough our
own local legend Bruce "the mouf of da souf" Dickman has graciously agreed
to be our master of ceremonies for the day In addition a HUGE thanks go out
to the folks at YABA who have donated to us the use of the pavillion there
at the park for the day, thanks guys!
So what do we need from you? Well your attendance for starters and we're
asking for donations for the Scott Hodge fund. We'd like to ask for $20 from
everyone to help out in the bills but please donate as much or as little as
you can. As I said before everyone is welcome so if you can help out a lot
and feel the call to do so then please by all means. If you can help out a
little then we want you to feel just as important. Above all we just want to
see your happy smiling faces out there doing what we all love most and what
Scott wishes he could be joining us in. In addition to all of that we are
working on some games for everyone, kids rides and a few other things that
you're just going to have to show up for to find out what they're all
about."
Heritage Park Trail Closure The trails at Heritage Park will be
closed the following days for events at the park: Sunday November 2, A foot
race on the trails benifiting the two local high schools. Sunday, November
30, a half marathon on the trails benefiting Toys for Tots.
Snake Creek TT Are you ready for the Snake? NWGA SORBA is gearing up
to host the 5th Annual Snake Creek Gap 6
Mountain Time Trials. To refresh your memory, following the Pinhoti Trail
the 34 Milers start at Dry Creek south of Villanow where you ascend and
descend Johns Mountain and Horn Mountain. The mid-point for the 34 Miler and
starting point for 17 Miler starts at Snake Creek Gap where you ascend and
descend four more mountain ranges - Mill Creek Mountain, Middle Mountain,
Hurricane Mountain, and Dug Gap Mountain. The final mile and a half is a
fast downhill on Dug Gap Mountain road to the trade center where we'll have
some hot chili and cobbler waiting for you.
Registration is now open on Active.com. The cost for all non-money classes
is $75 if you register before Dec. 31 9PM (PST). After Dec 31, all non-money
class registration will be $90. Money class registration is $125. These fees
cover all three races on Jan 3, Feb 7 and Mar 7th Grand Finale.
This year, the Money Class payout for men and women will be $700 1st, $500
2nd, $300 for 3rd. Also in 2009, on each event date a different special
prize will be given to the first 200 riders who check-in at registration.
So, make sure you come early on ride day. Thanks for supporting the
Northwest Georgia chapter of SORBA/IMBA! Visit our web-site at
http://www.nwgasorba.org to see
how we promote our sport.
Free Cross Clinic Sunday at Conyers! Fulton Flyers Development Team
is hosting! FREE! Sponsored by BLUE Competition Cycles and PowerBar!
Download full flyer at:
www.fultonflyerscycling.org Fulton Flyers Cyclo-Cross Clinic
November 2 @ 9 a.m. – preceding the GA Cross Series Sorella Cycling race at
the Georgia International Horse Park
Meet at the Blue Competition Cycles & Siemens Home Appliances Tents near
registration Your chance to ask Oscar and Michael - how you guys do that?
Don't be shy! Come on over!
Attn. Cherokee County Cyclists and Mountain Bikers From SORBA Woodstock for informational purposes only. Please note as a 501c3, they have no official position:
Just a reminder that Cherokee County has a Park Bond Referendum question on
the Ballot this election. The question on the ballot is the very last
question and states: "Shall there be issued up to $90,000,000 in aggregate
principal amount of Cherokee County general obligation bonds for the purpose
of financing the purchase, construction, and improvements of parks,
recreational land, facilities and equipment, including green space?"
Two of the projects to be funded by the bond are of interest to Mountain
Bikers:
$200,000 of these funds has been earmarked for Blankets Creek MTB Park .
These funds will be to expand parking, create permanent bathrooms, build a
pavilion and be used to do more trail construction.
$10,500,000 of these funds has been earmarked for the Greenprints Project
which will build a 40+ miles bike trail system around Woodstock and
hopefully connect to Fulton and Cobb county greenway systems. Two of the
high priority projects for the Greenprints Project are building two 4 mile
MTB trails at Rope Mill Park near downtown Woodstock and connecting them to
the South Loop Trail at Blankets Creek.
SORBA Woodstock is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and we have no
official YES or NO position on the referendum. We are distributing this
information to our members so they may have the information they need to
make their personal decision on this bond referendum. You can find more
information and a list of all the park projects to be funded by the bond at
http://www.parksforcherokee.com
Thanks, Jay Wilkes Vice President - SORBA Woodstock