February 2009 Archive

2-2-2009  Jittery Joe's merges with Kudzu.com U25 Team Jittery Joe's changes focus for 2009 From Cyclingnews.com.

The Jittery Joe's team announced Friday that it would join forces with the Kudzu.com under-25 team for the 2009 season. The Jittery Joe's team had stepped away from professional status for this year, and is now refocusing its efforts on developing talent in the southeast US region. The merger creates the Jittery Joe's p/b Kudzu.com U25 Cycling Team, which will bring in Dan Larson as a team director. Kudzu.com riders Jafer Beizer, Thomas Brown, Oscar Clark and Joey Rosskopf will return, and will be joined by Mike Niemi, former US junior national time trial champion and Anthony Bennett, former Australian junior national scratch race champion. Micah Rice, who built the Jittery Joe's Cycling team from the ground up commented, "While it is always hard to take a step back, I think we have put together a really strong and reputable program for 2009. Jittery Joe's will always have a strong presence in the cycling community." The Jittery Joe's p/b Kudzu.com U25 Cycling Team Riders: Jafer Beizer, Anthony Bennett, Thomas Brown, Oscar Clark, Mike Niemi, Joey Rosskopf. Team Director: Dan Larson with additional team support provided by Jeremy Hutchison-Krupat and Micah Rice.

DLV Here is a very cool picture of a flyer from the inaugural year the Dick Lane Veldrome--1975 (Shamelessly taken from a velodrome rider's Facebook profile).

2-3-2009 February Trail School SORBA has some openings for the February Trail School.

Summer Rides I know we still have 8 weeks or so, but this is something we can look forward to! See the Atlanta Cycling Summer Rides. Moderate paced groups will leave at 6:15 pm on the Silver Lake on Wednesday ride and the Bellyache on Thursdays. I will be leading the Bellyache B group. The B rides will start the first week of April and will use the same routes as the A groups.

2-4-2009 Georgia Grand Prix News Georgia Cycling Gran Prix, in a short 30 days, will make its racing debut in Winder, Georgia at the TopView Cycling Classic, and a week later, in Albany, Georgia and the Regions Bank Race Weekend.

The TopView Cycling classic will feature two challenging road courses on February 28 - March 1, 2009. Day one takes place in Barrow County, featuring a rolling 7.1 mile loop in Winder, Georgia. This course will be a great start to the Georgia Cycling Gran Prix and your 2009 season.

Day two is a familiar course to those who participated in the 2008 Cycling for Parkinsons Weekend. This seven-mile loops course will make for a spectacular race as part of the first Georgia Cycling Gran Prix Event. Winding through the back roads of Dacula, Georgia, this course features challenging, hilly terrain.

The Regions Bank Weekend is a two-day, three-stage race, beginning with a time trial and criterium in downtown Albany on Saturday, March 7, and a road race on March 8. The time trial begins on the riverside street of downtown Albany. With over ten turns in 3.1 K, the time trial will have riders ducking and diving and stomping on their pedals as they weave through the streets of downtown.

Competitors will revisit the TT course for the criterium - a figure-eight, 2 K course through Albany is an ideal course to test legs in the season's first criterium. Get your legs ready for the road race, as the 54.5 K loop will take racers through the Albany country.

This year's Region's Bank Race Weekend features an increased prize purse of $7500 and decreased entry fees from 2008, so go online and register at TrueSport.com!

For more information on races, scheduling, and registration, visit GeorgiaCycling.net.

Sope Creek Improvements to the Sope Creek trail were outlined in the AJC the other day.

GBRA Schedule Released! The Georgia Bicycle Racing Association has released its 2009 RR Schedule. It's on the 2009 Race Calendar.(I have pulled this. It will be released shortly!)

GBRA News From the GBRA Rider Rep.Hello, The Georgia Bicycle Racing Association (GBRA) just concluded it's February meeting and the following issues were discussed. Please feel free to share this information with other cyclists that you may know. If you have any questions regarding these items or the GBRA please feel free to contact the GBRA President, John Pattereson or Chris Hurst, Board Member.

1) GBRA has been able to finally approve the official 2009 Georgia Race Calendar, which is attached with this email.

2) GBRA will send out state championship jersey bid requests to multiple vendors beginning next week, GBRA will purchase the state championship jerseys for all road events and cyclocross and seek either partial or full reimbursement from the event promoters for only the number of jerseys issued at the championship event. This will create a uniform state championship jersey, reduce costs to the promoters through bulk purchasing, and assure that championship jerseys are available for more race categories.

3) Purchase of two additional race radio's for the race official's use at Georgia races throughout the year.

4) Discussion continued on the idea of creating a Georgia state wide point series. Several valid concerns were brought forward which will require more serious thought on how or if such a program can be established. Difficulties include the fact their are now two promoter based point series in place, and the ability to fund a GBRA based series.

5) The Georgia race calendar will be made into flyers and posters to be distributed at the first few races of the season, to local bike shops, and to other cycling friendly establishments.

GA Cup The Georgia Cup website http://www.georgiacup.com has been updated with new information about the TT series.

Browser Questions Answered I've had a few people ask a question about which browsers SE Cycling looks best on. I test it on Safari, the latest version of Firefox  (Mac), and IE6 whenever I make a major change. I have no plans to do a WAP compatible site unless someone wants to pay me to make this my full time job! (I can dream!). For those less techie, WAP or mobile sites are optimized for devices like the Iphone and Blackberry. The site should be compatible also with Chrome and Opera.

2-5-2009
Contact News@JeremiahBishop.com
 

"Racing around the World" with USA National Champion Jeremiah Bishop

Jeremiah Bishop will present "Racing around the World" at a special dinner event hosted by Charlotte Sports Cycling at Nothing but Noodles in Charlotte, North Carolina, Feb. 7, 2009. The USA National Champion of Short Track and Marathon Mountain Bike will share stories, highlights and photos from his experience traveling and racing around the world. From South Africa to Switzerland, Andorra to Patagonia, the account of Bishop's adventures is sure to inspire everyone.

Bishop will also briefly speak about World Bicycle Relief, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing access to independence and livelihood through the power of bicycles.  A moderated question and answer session will conclude the presentation. Following, attendees are invited to view unique trophies, medals, jerseys and other souvenirs, meet Jeremiah and receive autographs and photo opportunities. During the event, one of Jeremiah's 2008 racing jerseys will be raffled in support of World Bicycle Relief. A limited number of tickets are available. For more information, visit www.charlottemtnbike.com. 
 

WBL Toccoa The Pacesetter Steel Toccoa World Cup Event (7 February 2009) Forecast: Spectacular
Length: 120 miles/6 hours (Plus 7 mile optional Attack Zone - Pink Church Loop - see below) Sponsor: Pacesetter Steel: http://www.pacesettercycling.com/ Interactive map: http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=1603931
When: 10 a.m.
Points/Cash: *3 to sign in and ride*Additional 3 points to each lady finisher (does not have to do 7 mile loop at end)*
Final Sprint:: 1.Top 5 Overall: $200 for the win; $25 for 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th! : (Points: 15-12-9-6-3)
2. Top 4 35+, Cat 3, 4, 5: $25 for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd: (Points: 7-5-3-1)
3. Females: $25 for all who finish with main group (7 mile Attack Zone loop not required)
Sprints:
1. Jackson County: 12 miles in/600 meter Attack Zone: Ladies only: $50 1st (Points: 5-3-1)
2. Stephens County: 45 miles in/1 mile Attack Zone: Vets 35+, Cats 3, 4, only: $251st (Points: 3-2-1)
3. Jefferson Riviera Wall: Pro Sprint: 100 miles in/stomp up the hill: $25 1st (Points: 3-2-1)
4. The Pink Church Line: Inside Final Attack Zone (see below): $25 1st (Points: 3-2-1)
Final Attack Zone: The Pink Church Loop - after sprint # 3 above, the pace will ease and the pack will regroup (without stopping) and ride 4 miles down Jefferson River Road and turn right at Alligator Pond. ATTACK ZONE OPENS HERE: The pack will then ride "The Pink Church Loop." The Pink Church line is 1 mile ahead and the first time over the line there is an intermediate sprint for $25 (Points: 3-2-1). Hang a right at the the church and keep going. You'll come back around in 7 miles and sprint here again for the win. If you wish, you can pull over here and watch the finish. They'll be back arond in about 17 minutes. The Pink Church Loop is 3 right hand turns that are marked with arrows. These are open roads and it is the riders' responsibility to slow and proceed safely through these turns. Believe me, at this point in the day, slowing for a stop sign will not affect the final winner in the least. The circuit runs back down Jefferson River Road for 3 miles, and turns right at Alligator Pond. From here, it's one long, uphill mile to the finish line. (Points: 15-12-9-6-3/ Non Pro, 1, 2: 7-5-3-1/ All Ladies: 3 pts. (circuit not required))
 

East Cobb Ride to the Capitol Join BikeCobb from the East Cobb Government Service Center, 4400 Lower
Roswell Road, Marietta.

* Linkup with the Roswell Riders as they cross the Chattahoochee River
* Depart promptly at 9:05 am. Very comfortable 12 MPH pace
* Park across the street at the Mount Bethel church near the school busses
* Pre-ride shop wrenches will be available
* Planning on Local Press and Government Officials to give us a send-off

Our link-up segment is 8 miles to the Chattahoochee River. Then, its 19.3 miles to the Capitol for a total of 27.3 miles.
* Return Options: a) Ride en-masse; b) Carpool; c) take MARTA to North Springs and ride back from there.
Bike Cobb Contact: Joe Seconder, jseconder@yahoo.com For more information and to pre-register for this free event, please
refer to: www.georgiaridestothecapitol.org

New Advertiser Welcome to our new advertiser, the Georgia Cup Tour of Atlanta. The ToA will be held over Memorial Day weekend. More information is available at http://www.georgiacup.com.

2-6-2009 Request a Bike Rack The Atlanta Downtown Improvement District (ADID) is now in the process of installing additional bike racks throughout Downtown. Bike racks help encourage alternative commuting as well as provide a great amenity to any facility. If your office building or property is in need of a bike rack, please send a request to Carly Nassar at cnassar@atlantadowntown.com or call 404-658-5915. All requests will be on a first come first served basis as the supply is limited.

Blinkie Awards This year the Atlanta Bicycle Campaign (ABC) gave out its first-ever Blinkie Awards. These awards are given to the exemplars of volunteerism, business, media, and government to recognize their role in making Atlanta bike-friendly.

On Saturday January 31, the Downtown TMA was recognized as ABC's 2008 Partner of the Year. Joint efforts between ABC and the Downtown TMA, including Bike Fest, Bike to Work Day and bicycle counts volunteerism, and scholarships for Downtown Confident City Cycling class participants, put the TMA 'over the top.' Just wait to see what is in store for 2009. Thank you to ABC for a great year!

Chili Dawg Ride Sat Feb 07th Chilly Dawg Ride Come out and ride with us! Should be a beautiful day! We will be meeting at the Big Creek Fire Station @ 10am, RTR, Gravel Roads mostly with some paved, a 30 and 45 mile route available! Sun will be shining and chili will be spicy For More Info call Cartecay Bikes : 706-635-2453 Thanks,
Kevin
 

2-9-2009  Jon Murphy to Race the Tour of California Jon Murphy (Team OUCH) will be racing the Tour of California. Details are on Cyclingnews.com.

This limo with double bike racks was seen Saturday at the Snake Creek Gap Time Trial  in Dalton, GA. Photo by Brigette Dusack.

Chili Dawg Ride From Cartecay Bikes: Saturday 02/14/09 10 am meet at the Big Creek Fire Station

This weeks Chilly Dawg ride will be in memory of Skip Murphy. Skip was a hardcore mountain biker who lived the mtb lifestyle in Ellijay . To most he was legendary! He was the ride director for EMBA and a huge contributor to our sport. 5 years ago Skip passed away while riding the Croom trails in Florida. He is greatly missed by the Southeast mountain bike community! Every year we (Cartecay Bikes) do 2 rides in memory of the Skipper, Skip Memorial Ride and the Tibbs Challenge. His 2 favorite rides were Stanley Gap and Bull Mountain So this year we plan on doing a 44 mile mountain bike ride from the Big Creek Fire Station which will include the Stanley Gap loop! An AWESOME route that will kick butt, Skip wouldn't have it any other way! Come out and ride and have fun. The Dawg will be leading it out! For More info call Cartecay Bikes, 706-635-2453 Thanks, Kevin

2-12-2009 GBRA Race Schedule The latest GBRA Race Schedule is out. The biggest change is the date for Roswell.

Tundra TT Don't forget that I'll be taking photos at the Tundra TT on Saturday! They will be available for purchase at http://sadlebred.smugmug.com a few days after the TT.

Monroe WBL The Last Event: Monroe World Cup Event (14 February 2009) Length: 100 Miles/5hours
Store Stop: Monroe
Interactive map: http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2554914
When: 10 a.m.
*Final Sprint: New, never done!: The pack will hit the Final Attack Zone at about the 80 mile point. The group will turn left off Wolfskin Road and onto Double Bridges Road. The Athens City limit sprint sign is 2.5 miles ahead. ($25 to winner; Points: 5-3-1). The final sprint sign is a painted line in the road 2 miles ahead. Visual markers coming and to be announced at ride start. There are no turns. Narrow road. Yellow Line Rule. Total length - 5 miles.
1. Top 5 Overall: $200 for the win; $25 for 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th! : (Points: 15-12-9-6-3)
2. Top 4 35+, Cat 3, 4, 5: $25 for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd: (Points: 7-5-3-1)
3. Females: $25 for 1st (Points: 7-5-3-1)

*Sprints1. Jackson County (15 miles in): Pro Sprint (all eligible): $25 for win (Points: 3-2-1)
2. ACC Sign - inside Final Attack Zone: Pro Sprint (all eligible): $25 for win Points: 5-3-1)

2-16-2009 Whining No whining allowed! Do not email me whining! If you want to whine and complain, start your own darn website! Do I get paid for doing this? NO. When do I do this? In my spare time....in between working 50-60 hours a week at my real job, my couch surfing (soon to be replaced by trying to get in shape again), spending time with my FAMILY (you do have one of those, don't you?? They do occasionally like to spend time with you, right???), keeping my household running, and being involved with other activities. QUIT YOUR WHINING! Thank you.

Tundra TT Photos The Tundra TT Photos are up. Let's just say the photographic conditions were very challenging with the rain and dark cloud cover.

New Advertiser Please welcome a new advertiser. Many of you know AMB as the premier timing company in cycling in the US. AMB provides timing for many of the country's largest cycling events. Did you know you can purchase your own timer for local and regional events on their website? Head to http://www.amb-it.com/chipx-transponders-c-1_3.html.

Blanket's Creek Work Party From SORBA Woodstock: "We finished machine cutting the new 0.6 mile extension for the Dwelling Loop this past week. Now we need your help. We are having a work party at Blankets Creek this Saturday from 9am - 1pm. We need volunteers to do the finishing work. We are going to be pruning roots, cutting the backcut and cleaning up the lower side. The goal is to have this new section completed by lunch and officially open it up. Since this is a reroute of the first clockwise fireroad, this section will net a 0.4 mile addition to the Dwelling Trail. The fireroad will be opened at a near future date as a one way downhill with tabletop jumps and drops. More details to follow.

We need you help! No experience is necessary. Meet at 9am at the parking lot kiosk. We will work until 1pm and will have free lunch afterwards for any volunteer that assists. We will provide tools. Please bring gloves, sturdy boots and water. Thanks for your support. Hope to see you this Saturday! Jay Wilkes"

2-17-2009 Chicopee Work Party From SORBA Gainesville:  "Join us for a work party on Saturday, February 21st at 9:00 AM at the Chicopee Woods MTB parking lot. We'll be working on amouring the muddy section between the high bridges on the White Tail trail (Outer loop). The armouring material should be on site so all we'll need to do is place the rocks. 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. We'll be grilling out for lunch so please let us know who's planning to attend. Thanks for your support!"

Free Waxing  Kate at the Grooming Lounge spa is offering a special deal for guys that ride: "I am a licensed Aesthetician and work at the all male spa called the Grooming Lounge. (Located in Buckhead at the terminus bldg.) I want to offer all your inspiring athletes a COMPLIMENTARY wax treatment. I know most cyclist wax regulalry and thought this would be a great way to introduce them to our very masculine spa treatments! Its simple all they have to do is call 404-467-7766, ask to make an appt. with Kate and let the front desk know its for a comp. treatment. I am trying to build my clietele and thought this would be a great way to start by offering a FREE TREATMENT! Kate Charest, Males skin care expert"

Westside Spring Rides From Todd Fryburger: All, Daylight Saving Time begins on Sunday 03/08/09 at 02:00 AM, less than three weeks from now. As such, below is the official ride schedule for the weeknight “In-Town Classics” - the Tuesday night “Sandy Springs Ride”, the Wednesday night “Peachtree Battle Ride”, and the Thursday night “Chastain Ride” - plus the Saturday “Tucker Ride”.

Please note the following:

* The In-Town Classics will start at 06:00 PM for the first two weeks, at 06:15 PM for the next two weeks, and then move to the regular 06:30 PM slot effective 04/07/09.

* Sandy Springs will be “Short Option” for the first eight weeks. “Long Option” starts effective 05/05/09.

* The In-Town Classics will be “Tempo / Winter Pace” for the first four weeks. This specifically precludes attacks on the Northside Drive climb on the Sandy Springs ride. If you want to do intervals, go somewhere else. “Show me what you’ve got night” is 04/07/09, and you can wail all you want thereafter.

* When Sandy Springs goes to Long Option, Vinings is a “neutral zone” from the top of the third hump to the library on Paces Ferry. This rule was invoked two years ago due to the obvious danger of new construction and congestion in the area. Do not advance your position, and do not pass cars queued in traffic - re-group in the neutral zone and resume after the library.

* Tucker will continue to start at 10:00 AM for the first three weeks, then move up one hour to 09:00 AM effective 04/04/09.

* Mark Linenberg is the keeper of the schedule for rides East of I-85 (“the Decatur / Stone Mountain crowd”), so I will defer to him as to how the time changes will impact those rides.

* In keeping with tradition, the “Sunday Ride” will continue to start at 09:00 AM from various points on the compass, “because the Sunday Ride changes for no one”.

* Ride smart, ride safe. Each year, we hear of complaints and / or someone gets hurt. We’ve got a good thing going here, something riders in few other cities get to enjoy. Let’s retain the privilege.

Here’s the schedule:

Tue 03/10/09 - Sandy Springs - Start Time 06:00 PM (Short Option)
Wed 03/11/09 - Peachtree Battle - Start Time 06:00 PM
Thu 03/12/09 - Chastain - Start Time 06:00 PM
Sat 03/14/09 - Tucker - Start Time 10:00 AM

Tue 03/17/09 - Sandy Springs - Start Time 06:00 PM (Short Option)
Wed 03/18/09 - Peachtree Battle - Start Time 06:00 PM
Thu 03/19/09 - Chastain - Start Time 06:00 PM
Sat 03/21/09 - Tucker - Start Time 10:00 AM

Tue 03/24/09 - Sandy Springs - Start Time 06:15 PM (Short Option)
Wed 03/25/09 - Peachtree Battle - Start Time 06:15 PM
Thu 03/26/09 - Chastain - Start Time 06:15 PM
Sat 03/28/09 - Tucker - Start Time 10:00 AM

Tue 03/31/09 - Sandy Springs - Start Time 06:15 PM (Short Option)
Wed 04/01/09 - Peachtree Battle - Start Time 06:15 PM
Thu 04/02/09 - Chastain - Start Time 06:15 PM
Sat 04/04/09 - Tucker - Start Time 09:00 AM

Tue 04/07/09 - Sandy Springs - Start Time 06:30 PM (Short Option)
Wed 04/08/09 - Peachtree Battle - Start Time 06:30 PM
Thu 04/09/09 - Chastain - Start Time 06:30 PM
Sat 04/11/09 - Tucker - Start Time 09:00 AM

Tue 04/14/09 - Sandy Springs - Start Time 06:30 PM (Short Option)
Wed 04/15/09 - Peachtree Battle - Start Time 06:30 PM
Thu 04/16/09 - Chastain - Start Time 06:30 PM
Sat 04/18/09 - Tucker - Start Time 09:00 AM

Tue 04/21/09 - Sandy Springs - Start Time 06:30 PM (Short Option)
Wed 04/22/09 - Peachtree Battle - Start Time 06:30 PM
Thu 04/23/09 - Chastain - Start Time 06:30 PM
Sat 04/25/09 - Tucker - Start Time 09:00 AM

Tue 04/28/09 - Sandy Springs - Start Time 06:30 PM (Short Option)
Wed 04/29/09 - Peachtree Battle - Start Time 06:30 PM
Thu 04/30/09 - Chastain - Start Time 06:30 PM
Sat 05/02/09 - Tucker - Start Time 09:00 AM

Tue 05/05/09 - Sandy Springs - Start Time 06:30 PM Long Option
Wed 05/06/09 - Peachtree Battle - Start Time 06:30 PM
Thu 05/07/09 - Chastain - Start Time 06:30 PM
Sat 05/09/09 - Tucker - Start Time 09:00 AM


All times then remain the same throughout the Summer until we adjust them again for shorter days in the Fall. Daylight Saving Time ends 11/01/09, so we will have 238 days of after-work bliss before we head indoors again. Best Regards,  TODD

Northlake Ride News From Mark Linenberg: Time springs forward March 8th, 2009
Reminder- For those that do Tucker on Saturdays- the 10:00 AM ride- will move to 9:00 AM on the first Saturday of April- 4/4/09 (that's 3 weeks after time change)
March Ride Sunsets- 7:40pm-8:00pm
Northlake Ride- for all of March - meet at 3900 Lavista Road- back segment of Indian restaurant parking lot:
Starts Tuesday March 10, 2009 @ 6:15PM. When we get to St. Mt. Park- One 7 mile intermediate counterclockwise loop- going up Stonewall Jackson (we normally do 2 of these loops in the summer)
Pizza Ride- for all of March- meet at Avondale Pizza Café:
Starts Thursday March 12, 2009 @ 6:15PM.
When we get to St. Mt. Park- One 9 mile large clockwise loop- (we normally do 2 of these loops in the summer)
April Ride Sunsets- 8:00pm-8:19pm
Northlake Ride- for last weekday of March all of April:
March 31, 2009 @ 6:30PM.
One 7 mile intermediate counterclockwise loop- going up Stonewall Jackson
Pizza Ride- for all of April:
Starts Thursday April 2, 2009 @ 6:30PM.
One 9 mile large clockwise loop
May Ride Sunsets- 8:22pm-8:41pm
Northlake Ride- for all of May- through late summer 2008:
Starts Tuesday May 5, 2009 @ 6:30PM.
Two 7 mile intermediate counterclockwise loop- going up Stonewall Jackson
Pizza Ride- for all of May- through last summer 2008:
Starts Thursday May 7, 2009 @ 6:30PM.
Two large clockwise loops

Sope Creek Work Party From SORBA Atlanta "Next WP at Sope Creek is next Saturday, Feb 28 from 9-1. Meet at Cochran Shoals car park and please be ready to move out by 900am. If you would like to hang out by the car park instead of swinging tools, we need a few folks to do some PR as well. Free Flite is sponsoring this WP so please be sure to thank them for their support the next time you drop in the shop. Lunch provided. Post WP ride and trail run. See you there!"

CN Reuses Old Photo Cyclingnews.com has reused an old photo of mine of Willo. Cool!

2-19-2009  Conyers Club The Newton Citizen had coverage the C4 club this week.

Eric Rybka Passed Away From Eric Broadwell for those that knew Eric Rybka: I am very saddened to inform you that a good friend and fellow cyclist has been called to heaven. Eric Rybka, owner of Talk of the Town Catering, passed away yesterday. His wife Julie has asked me to inform you. She has asked that in lieu of flowers you make a donation to Bike Roswell, PO Box
745, Roswell, GA 30077 in memory of Eric.

I am suggesting that we place a Bike Rack with in memory of Eric Rybka in a location that we all will see.

The viewing will be Thursday evening from 6-8 at the Northside Chapel 1205 Crabapple Road, Roswell, GA 30075. Funeral services will be Friday at 2PM at the same Northside Chapel. The family will be gathering at a friends house afterwards.

I would like to plan a silent ride in memory of Eric. Since Eric enjoyed the Tuesday Night crit I suggest we incorporate Devereux Downs in the ride. We will ride Sat at 4:30PM from the Roswell Area Park up to Devereux Downs around and back to Talk of the town Catering and turn around in the soccer field parking lot then return to the park. If it is raining we will ride on
Sunday at 4:30. I will see if CJ, Eric's son, and possibly his daughter will join us. Pass the word to all that may want to ride in memory. Eric Broadwell

Trish's Note: I've ridden with Eric on a number of occasions with the NARC and Brew Crews. He was a wonderful man and loved riding. Just to clarify, he did not pass away because of anything related to a bike/bike accident/etc. I'm posting this because I know a lot of us rode with Eric and may want to attend the services.

Georgia Cycling Grand Prix Georgia Cycling Gran Prix Adds Five More Days of Racing Historic Roswell Criterium, Georgia State Road Race, and Cumming Classic all in the mix

The Georgia Cycling Gran Prix, a few weeks away from its inaugural season, is pleased to announce the inclusion of three more events to create a twelve-race series, which includes 25 total days of racing.

New to the Georgia Cycling Gran Prix, albeit well-known to the region's cyclist, is the Historic Roswell Criterium, which will be held April 26, 2009, the Sunday after the Athens Twilight Criterium. One day of racing for the best criterium riders in the region will surely add excitement to the overall points chase.

Team Cycleworks presented by HDR will be hosting the State Road Race Championship Weekend on May 16th and 17th. The increasingly popular Cherokee County Road Race course, with all its' twists, turns, ups and downs, will help select the 2009 State Champions on Saturday May 16, 2009. The weekend then moves to John's Creek for some exciting criterium action. Over $6000 in payouts and prizes for the weekend should make these events a priority on any racer's calendar.

The Cumming Classic presented by Reality Bikes is not new to the Georgia racing scene. Held on the weekend of August 1st and 2nd, the Cumming Classic presented by Reality Bikes will feature a time trial, road race, and circuit race. Saturday will have the Georgia Cycling Gran Prix hopefuls racing against the clock and each other to gain the last points of the season going in to the Finale Weekend, while Sunday will feature the circuit race.

The first race of the season, the TopView Cycling Classic, kicks off on February 28 and will feature two road races. Please note the courses have flip-flopped days!! Day one is a familiar course to those who participated in the 2008 Cycling for Parkinsons Weekend. This seven-mile loop will make for a spectacular course as it winds through the hilly back roads of Dacula, Georgia. Day two takes place in Barrow County, featuring a rolling 7.1 mile loop in Winder, Georgia. This course will be a great start to the Georgia Cycling Gran Prix and your 2009 season.

The Georgia Cycling Gran Prix is excited to bring racers in the region great venues, fast results reporting, friendly registration staff, and most importantly, fun and safe racing. Other features of the Series include an overall points competition and prize money and an end-of-season awards banquet to recognize the winners of each category.

Race Schedule
TopView Cycling Classic 2/28/2009 - 3/01/2009 Winder, GA
Regions Bank Race Weekend 3/07/2009 - 3/08/2009 Albany, GA
Athens Twilight Criterium 4/25/2009 Athens, GA
Historic Roswell Criterium 4/26/2009 Roswell, GA
Global BMW Sandy Springs Cycling Classic 5/03/2009 Sandy Springs, GA
Team Cycleworks p/b HDR State Road Race 5/16/2009 - 5/17/2009 Cherokee County, GA
Tour Dahlonega 5/30/2009 - 5/31/2009 Dahlonega, GA
Low Country Classic 6/06/2009 - 6/07/2009 Beaufort, SC**
Cycle for Parkinsons 6/27/2009 - 6/28/2009 Dacula and Lawrenceville, GA
Gwinnett Bike Fest 7/21/2009 - 7/26/2009 Various Locations, GA
Cumming Classic p/b Reality Bikes 8/01/2009 - 8/02/2009 Cumming, GA
Summer Finale Weekend 8/29/2009 - 8/30/2009 Lawrenceville and Loganville, GA

For more information please visit www.GeorgiaCycling.net.

Trek Demo at Blanket's Creek From Free Flite: Semo at Blankets Creek Trails - Saturday, April 11, 2009 10am -3pm
All you need is a drivers license to ride any of the 2009 Trek bikes.
2009 Bike Model Sizes
Madone 5.5 Performance Fit 50,52,54x2, 56x2, 58x2, 60,62
Madone 6.9 Pro Fit 54, 56
Trek EX 9.9 15.5, 17.5, 18.5, 19.5, 21
Trek Remedy 9 small, med , large
Trek 69er SS 15.5, 19.5
Fisher Roscoe med and 2 Large
Fisher Pro Caliber 17, 19
Fisher SuperFly 15.5, 19, 21
Fisher HiFi Pro 29er 16, 19, 21
Fisher HiFi Pro 26in Wheel 15.5,17.5, 19

2-20-2009 Welcome, Blue! Welcome to our latest sponsor, Blue Bikes. If you are from Georgia, you've heard of these awesome bikes! Blue is based in Norcross. Check them out at http://www.rideblue.com!

Forest Service Roads Closed The Forest Service has closed the Forest Service Roads in the Cohutta area.

2-22-2009 Updated Calendar I updated the calendar at the top of the page. Email me if anyone notices something that is incorrect.
 

Hit By A Car Advice There seem to have been a few cyclists that have hit by a car lately. I know of one incident this weekend where the driver was cited for Failure to Yield (to the cyclist.). Thankfully, none of these riders have been seriously injured. I've been hit before and would like to offer some advice.

Immediately, call the police if you can (you do carry your cell phone on every ride, right??) or have a bystander call 911. First, if you are really injured, let the paramedics take you and your bike to the ER and get treatment immediately. Your health is more important than anything. Make sure the police are dispatched as well. They will want to interview you, the driver, and any witnesses. Tell the police the truth.  Be courteous to everyone at the scene, and try to remain calm and rational. Do not yell four letter words at the driver and get out of control. Get the officer's name, badge number, and the police report number. The police officer will usually offer this to you after he completes the report. After everything is done, call your wife/girlfriend/husband/boyfriend/partner/friend/aunt/mom/cousin's best friend for a ride home. You don't want to try to ride home after being hit, even if it was minor.

Afterwards:

1. Get a copy of the police report ASAP. The police report will contact the driver's insurance information. Contact the driver's insurance company as soon as you get the report to file a claim. You have the right to be compensated for any expenses you incur from the accident such as doctor's appointments, prescriptions, etc. The officer may let the driver give you the insurance information at the scene.

2. See a doctor right away. If after you get home, you experience any symptoms that could be life threatening or cause extreme pain call 911 and go to the ER. If not, call your doctor to schedule an appt. to get checked out as soon as possible.

3. Pay cash for your doctor's appts. and save all of your receipts. You will need them for the driver's insurance company. Do not use your own insurance. The driver's insurance company will not pay your copays. You need to pay by cash (or credit card). The key is do not use your own insurance. If for some reason they refuse to pay later, you can always file paper forms with your own health insurance company.

4. Get an estimate from 2 LBSs IN WRITING on how much it will be to repair your bike. Also, don't think the frame/wheels/whatever isn't damaged. A LBS needs to put it on a frame jig to check the alignment, and it needs to be checked for cracks by a pro. You do not want to ride what could be a dangerous bike. The driver's insurance company will pay for the damages to your bike.

5. If you are injured, we all know you want to ride TODAY. Follow your doctor's advice, take it easy, and get well first! 

Just a note: The insurance company may settle property damages (ie your bike, ruined clothing, damaged sunglasses, etc) separately from the medical bills. In the incidents I've been involved in, they usually settle property damage very quickly and medical claims after you know you will not have any more medical bills. Also, I am not an attorney nor do I play one on tv nor do I offer legal advice for a living. These pointers are from my experience only. If you have any questions about your specific circumstances, you should consult an attorney. Alabama Cycling News has some good articles on the subject written by an attorney.

2-24-2009 Harbins Trail Grand Opening From SORBA GATR: Come join us Saturday March 21st fo rthe Grand Opening of Harbins Alcovy Park and Trail System. Address: 2295 Luke Edwards Rd, Dacula, GA 30019 I'll be updating this post as we get closer to the date with more details but so far we'll have grilled food and beverage provided by Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation, Group Rides, Children's Bike Skills Clinics and Demo Bikes from Appalachee Cycles and Bikeways of Tucker Come join us for a ride and celebrate these great new trails!!! Thanks and see you there! GATR

Ride with Mari Holden Saturday, March 7th Ride with Mari Holden - a world class woman and world champion cyclist - on Saturday, March 7 for an madvanced road ride at 7:30am or ride at 8:00am on a beginner's road ride out of Roswell Bicycles, 670 Houze Way, Roswell, GA 30076 (770)642-4057 FREE Giant water bottles for all riders.

Mari will then hold a clinic at 11:00am with more clinics throughout the afternoon and experience the day of super discounts, an EXPO, and demo ride a bike of your dreams all day at Roswell Bicycles.

Wednesday, March 11th
Special Ladies Night with Giant Bicycle at Roswell Bicycles -- 7-9pm
Special presentation, clinics, refreshments, special discounts, prizes and giveaways.

2-25-2009   Attack on the Wild Horse Trail A man was attacked on the Wild Horse Trail in Powder Springs. The Wild Horse Trail connects to the Silver Comet. I've ridden out there, and it's pretty isolated. Be careful out there!

2-27-2009   SOPO Benefit The SOPO Bike Coop is hosting their annual benefit Broken Hearts and Bicycle Parts march 6-7 .

Suspect Arrested A suspect has been arrested in the Wild Horse Trail beating.