August 2024 News

For those who don’t know, the day job laid off about 300 people in July including myself as part of a larger IT outsourcing. I work(ed) in IT for a large corporation. If you know of anything, please look me up on Linkedin. I can also send out my resume. Want to help out in another way? Contact me for advertising rates on Southeastern Cycling!

News for 8-24-2024
Wilson 100

From the Promoter
Register now for our annual Wilson 100 on Saturday, September 7, 2024. Same great routes as last year…Wilson 60 Rocky Mt, Wilson 100 Tower, Wilson Farmhouse 30
Ride Day:
Towerhouse Farm Brewery
18736 GA-85, Gay, GA 30218
6:30am- On site registration and packet pick-up at the Peach Shed
7:30am- 60, 80, 100 mass ride start
8:00am- 30miler starts
3:00-The last rest stop closes

Parking will be directed by the Southside Cycling riders, which we so appreciate! They will be at the parking lot entrance closest to the brewery. There will be signs. The brewery is offering $1.00 off any beer for your enjoyment!
We thank you for your support and look forward to seeing you on the 7th! —Your Wilson 100 Ride Crew

UCI Mountain Bike World Championships
Georgia has two Junior Men competing in XC at the Mountain Bike World Champilonships this weekend. Ezra Caudell (Acworth, Ga.; Gravity Collective) and Luke Mosteller (Tunnell Hill, Ga.; Bear National Team). Other Southeastern races will represent the US in Downhill Elite Men Dakotah Norton (Clinton, Tenn.; Mondraker Factory Racing) and Luca Shaw (Pisgah Forest, N.C.; Canyon Collective). See the full US roster.

News for 8-22-2024
Atlanta Streets Alive

From Urbanize Atlanta
“Who says everywhere south of Interstate 20 never gets any love?

Come next month, Atlanta’s largest open-streets block party is shifting from the heart of downtown and Midtown to a new route spanning between a West End greenspace along the Beltline to the doorstep of the city’s oldest park.

Atlanta Streets Alive will begin a series of three monthly events from 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 15 along a straight route from West End to Grant Park, with Mechanicsville and Summerhill’s lively commercial district in between.

It will return to that route—opening Ralph David Abernathy Boulevard and Georgia Avenue—on Oct. 20 and Nov. 17.” Read the entire article.

News for 8-21-2024
Trans North Georgia Winner

Travis Jolly won the TNGA long distance bikepacking/bike race on a full suspension….single speed. Ya’ll I race singlespeed at a few CX races. That’s hard. Travis is insane…and apparently very fast. Emily Cox from Clayton, GA was the women’s winner. Read the full article at Bikepacking for some fun info.

News for 8-18-2024
Georgia Native Artem Shmidt Signs with Ineos Grenadiers

From Cyclingnews.com
“Reigning under-23 US national time trial champion Artem Shmidt signed a two-year contract with Ineos Grenadiers, putting the 20-year-old on the WorldTour team through 2026.

This is the first professional contract for the Georgia native, who will join the development squad at the end of August after competing with Team USA at the Tour de l’Avenir, taking place August 18-24.

“I’m very grateful to be joining Ineos Grenadiers for the rest of this season and the next two years. It was a goal from day one to ride for this team so making it a reality is really a dream come true,” Shmidt told Cyclingnews.

“I can’t wait to learn from the riders and staff to improve my game, but more importantly to help the team in any way I can. Super excited to see what the next couple years bring!”

Shmidt showed off his big engine as a 12-year-old when he swept junior national titles in the time trial, road race and criterium. Riding for development teams Mission Source/NGCA and Hot Tubes Development, Shmidt climbed the ladder to Pro 1-2 events, and in 2022 he earned two silvers and a bronze at road nationals in the men’s junior 17-18 division. He also gained experience in Belgium with stints on Cannibal Team, where he earned two GCs in Europe as a junior.”

Read the full article. Trish’s Note: This is Mission Source’s 2nd World Tour rider. Ian Garrison went to Deceuninck Quick-Step for a year. Something is in the water in Georgia. We’ve had so many men turn pro. Saul Raisin spent a couple of years with the French team Cofidis before his terrible accident. Oscar (last name eludes me) spent several years in Europe racing at the Continental level. Of course, Joey Rosskopf, who has raced for big teams and is with Q36.5 for this year. Ty Magner, Michael Garrison (Ian’s brother), and so many more. The women’s side has been a bit lighter. I can’t think of any women from Georgia that have raced on a European team. Certainly the biggest pro out of Georgia is ever young Tina Pic. She’s done the World Championships, won Twilight a time or two (or three?), and been an Olympic alternate (Athens, Greece 2024). Are there any other women?? Contact me if you know of any.

News for 8-14-2024
Women’s Cyclocross Clinic
Ladies! Join Sorella Cycling for a free women’s Cyclocross Clinic on Sat., Sept. 28 in Acworth, GA! All women are welcome!! It’s a perfect weekend of CX. Do the clinic on Sat. and race at Coweta County CX on Sunday! Please register at the link below. (Adults 18+ only, no Juniors/kids). Sorella is looking forward to seeing you there!

https://www.sorellacycling.org/content.aspx?page_id=4002&club_id=815352&item_id=2258160

News for 8-13-2024
Beltline Renames Mainline Trails

The Beltline has renamed the mainline trails. “The updated corridor names align with cardinal directions and match how Atlantans define various parts of the City. Where possible, we’ve looked for natural barriers (such as major roads and interstates) to help create logical breaks between the different areas of the corridor that are easy to understand, especially for those unfamiliar with the trail. The updated naming convention also ensures that each section of the 22-mile trail is roughly equal in length. “or full details, see their website

GA State Rep. Devan Seabaugh Arrested for DUI & Hitting a Cyclist in Atlanta
From Atlanta News First on 8-9-2024
“ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) – A lawmaker from Cobb County was arrested on charges of driving under the influence Thursday night after hitting a bicyclist, the Georgia State Patrol said.

State Rep. Devan Seabaugh was driving on Memorial Drive at Park Avenue in Fulton County when the crash happened just after 9 p.m., GSP said. They said the cyclist was in the bicycle lane.

Troopers from the NightHawks North DUI Task Force responded and placed Seabaugh under arrest, GSP said. He was transported to the Atlanta City Jail, they said.

Atlanta City Detention Center staff said Seabaugh was released Friday at 1:08 a.m. on a $4,051 bond. He was detained under charges of driving under the influence and failure to obey a traffic control device.” Read the entire story at Atlanta News First.

Trish’s Note: There are a ton of articles in the Marietta Daily Journal and the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, but most are behind a paywall. The MDJ reported on Aug. 12 that Rep. Seabaugh refused any test including breathalyzer, blood, and urine to determine if he was drunk or on drugs.

News for 8-10-2024–Yes! A lot of news the last few days!
AFO 100

From the Van Purser FoundationHere’s a friendly reminder that the 2024 AFO 100 is less than two months away, on Saturday, October 5, 2024! If you haven’t registered yet, now’s the time to secure your spot for this incredible cycling event. Whether you’re aiming for a leisurely ride or pushing your personal limits, the AFO 100 offers a fantastic opportunity to challenge yourself, enjoy the camaraderie of fellow cyclists, and soak in the beautiful scenery. This event is also a tribute to our friend, Van Purser, a beloved figure in our cycling community who inspired countless riders with his passion and dedication. Let’s honor his memory by coming together for an unforgettable ride. Cinch up your shoes, grab your helmet, and register today!

My First Century Training Ride
Get ready for our third My First Century (MFC) Training Ride! Join us and our friends at Cycle Alpharetta on Saturday, August 17th, at 7:45 a.m. at Halcyon, 6500 Halcyon Way, Alpharetta. These fully-supported training sessions are the perfect preparation for the epic 100-mile AFO ride. If you can maintain a 15–17 mph pace, you’ll be set to conquer this incredible milestone. With expert ride leaders from the area’s top cycling groups and a support vehicle on hand for any unexpected mishaps, all you need to do is ride and enjoy the journey! Please note that you must be registered for the AFO 100 to participate in the MFC training ride. Interested in joining us? Send us an email

Wilson 100
From the promoter
Register now for our annual Wilson 100 on Saturday, September 7, 2024.
Same great routes as last year…Wilson 60 Rocky Mt, Wilson 100 Tower, Wilson Farmhouse 30
Ride Day: Towerhouse Farm Brewery 18736 GA-85, Gay, GA 30218
6:30am- On site registration and packet pick-up at the Peach Shed
7:30am- 60, 80, 100 mass ride start
8:00am- 30miler starts
3:00-The last rest stop closes

Parking will be directed by the Southside Cycling riders, which we so appreciate! They will be at the parking lot entrance closest to the brewery. There will be signs. The brewery is offering $1.00 off any beer for your enjoyment! We thank you for your support and look forward to seeing you on Sept. 7th!—Your Wilson 100 Ride Crew

MACC One Love
From MACC
Special Guests Justin & Cory Williams, Rahsaan Bahati and Ayesha McGowan
MACC’s 18th ANNUAL ONE LOVE CENTURY Sat., Aug. 31 8:00am Join us and our special guests-Justin & Cory Williams, Rahsaan Bahati and Ayesha McGowan-for a weekend of One Love events and help MACC continue to support youth cycling programs in our community.We are excited to have each of our guests riding the Fish Fry ride and the One Love as well as participating in Table Talk on Friday. For details on the One Love weekend of events and all the ride start times and locations check out our website onelovecentury.org.

News for 8-8-2024
Homegrown Gravel
From East Point Track Club​

Homegrown Gravel Adventure heads into fourth year, leaving “Border Wars” name behind Each year, along the Alabama-Georgia border, a gritty and exhilarating day of early spring gravel racing is quickly becoming legend in the cycling community. On Saturday, February 22, 2025, the gravel adventure returns under a new (but familiar) banner.

Formerly “Border Wars,” Homegrown Gravel Adventure has rebranded for 2025. The shift is driven by the continued evolution of the event, which has steadily outgrown the original intent behind its old name. As world conflict continues around the globe, the time has come to look toward the future. Throughout its first three years, Border Wars consistently described itself as a homegrown event, aiming to remind riders of Grandma’s warm apple pie—and never a typical prepackaged dessert. (While mass-produced treats can be delightful, that’s simply not what this event is.) Thus, the Homegrown name was a natural fit. The move allows organizers and participants to focus on the experience without distraction. And while the brand is choosing to mellow with age, the event itself remains an extremely challenging and competitive gravel race and ride, giving participants the freedom to push their personal limits and embrace the mental battle to finish. For its fourth iteration, Homegrown 2025 will see several additions and expansions. Field limits have increased from 600 to 800 total registered riders. New prize categories have been added for 40-54 Masters, 55+ Masters, and Singlespeed. The 30-mile ride now has an optional ten-mile extension, creating a 40-mile route. There will be official event camping during the evenings before and after the race, and post-ride showers will be available to all riders.

The overall winners in the Women’s, Men’s, Non-Binary, Masters, Juniors and Singlespeed categories will be awarded one-of-a kind custom ceramic trophies, lovingly made by Grouchy Ass Pottery Studio. These trophies are large handmade works of art requiring hours of labor, fully customized for each event. The 2025 trophies will, of course, be the first to bear the Homegrown logo. As competitors return to Downtown Franklin’s quaint square after a grueling ramble through serene Georgia farmland and shady Alabama hollers, they’ll be welcomed into a charming post-ride community festival. Featuring abundant and delicious food and drink, live music, a bike expo, art, massages and good company, the after-party is a highlight, a well-earned reward, and a peaceful end to a beautiful day in the Southeast’s backcountry.

The event is cohosted by Independent Gravel and the East Point Track Club and presented by local sponsors, with event profits benefiting MTB Atlanta and the Heard County Food Pantry. Get a $15 early bird discount through September 30, 2024. For more information, visit www.homegrowngravel.com.

Fools Gold News
From Mountain Goat Adventures

The 2024 Maxxis Tires Fools Gold will be held on September 14, 2024 at the beautiful Montaluce Winery, in Dahlonega, GA. The Fool’s Gold Mountain Bike Races will offer riders a 38 mile or 54 mile course. Free primitive camping is available at Montaluce Winery for Friday and Saturday nights. It helps us plan for the event immensely if you sign up early, so we are offerig BLOCK PRICING FOR 2024. 50 SPOTS REMAINING AT THE LOWEST REGISTRATION PRICE! After the first 200 register, the price goes up $10 for each additional 100 riders. Full pricing details are on the EVENT WEBSITE.

Both courses begin at Montaluce Winery and will have approximately 3 miles on pavement, then transition to gravel roads. The 54 mile course begins with a stout 3 mile gravel road climb. The long course will remain on the ridgeline gravel road for 6 miles all the way to Winding Stair Gap and Aid 1. A fast gravel descent then takes riders onto the singletrack of the Turner Creek Trail. From here, riders will descend back to FS 28-1, and join the 38 mile course for the remainder of the race, which includes the Jones Creek Dam Trail, Bull Mountain Trail and Loop, Jake Mountain Trail and Black Branch Trail. The 38 mile course heads directly to the Jones Creek Dam Trail along gravel roads, giving riders the opportunity to space out. Essentially, the shorter course just cuts off the first section of gravel road climbing and ridge riding, and heads directly to the singletrack loop.

Finisher Medals for all 38 and 54 Mile Finishers!!
TONS of good stuff included: ▪ Challenging course that features hard climbs, fast descents and sweet flowy singletrack that you will feel good about finishing. ▪ Cash payout for the Open Men/Open Women’s classes in both the 38 and 54 mile race. ▪ Cash prizes for all first place finishers in the non-open categories in the 54 mile race. Full details on payouts/prizes can be found HERE. ▪ Podium shirt for all first place finishers in both races ▪ Mesh race logo gear bag for all participants ▪ Free Primitive Camping at Montaluce Winery Friday and Saturday night! ▪ Terrapin Beer and Moe’s for post-race calorie replenishment! ▪ Finisher Medals for all finishers in both races ▪ Custom awards and prizes for all podium finishers in both races ▪ Soft and comfy race shirt – size guaranteed if you register by the size deadline of August 16th. ▪ Highly visible Course Markings and Course Marshals ▪ Aid stations with plenty of calories, fluids, mechanical support and first aid supplies. 8 Miles to Tacos BONUS SWAG FOR OUR JUNIOR RIDERS!

As coaches for the Georgia Cycling Association, we are excited that this year’s race is on a “Non-GCA” weekend and hope to have a strong showing of junior riders. All riders 18 and under will receive a bonus swag item! Juniors can register in the Open or age group divisions. If we have at least 10 juniors in a gender/distance category, we will create separate junior categories.

We are looking for folks who’d like to volunteer for this year’s Fool’s Gold Mountain Bike Race! We take good care of our crew and offer a Fool’s Gold or Southern Cross entry for adults who commit to a 6 hour shift (for yourself or you can earn an entry for a spouse/friend). We need helpers for registration, aid stations, course marshals, as well as at the start/finish to keep an eye on the beer. We also have a limited number of positions available for Friday night/Saturday morning registration and post-race help, for folks who want to volunteer AND still race. If you are interested in helping out, please contact lisa@mountaingoatadventures.com and let me know your shirt size, availability and any task preference. Course Marshals and Aid Station helpers will need to have transportation out to their location. Thanks in advance!

https://mountaingoatadventures.com/foolsgold

News for 7-31-2024
Georgia Gravel Grinduro

From Topview Sports
Please use this coupon code and join us at the Georgia Gravel Grinduro for our 7th annual event! You don’t want to miss riding/racing in this little German Town of Helen. Fall is the most beautiful time to ride.
Coupon Code: 3GGG
Expires: August 5th
When: Saturday, Oct 26th 2024 ~ 9:00am
Where: 590 Edelweiss Strausse, Helen, GA 30545
Who: All riders with a Gravel, Cross, Mountain Bike or even an EBike… No License required
What: 3 Course Options- 23, 33 or 68 miles. Pretty simple- easy or hard, pick your poison.
The Grinduro day of events will be fully supported, staffed and permitted with local government and police. There will be professionally chip timed KOM Segments, fully stocked Aid Stations, and amazing friendly competition.

CX Calendar Update and I NEED A NEW JOB
I’m fully aware that the CX calendar isn’t updated. I hope to get to it this week. Let’s just say the last week has been personally challenging. The “job that pays the bills” aka my corporate job RIFed (aka Reduction in Force or Bye Bye Bye Bye Bye) several dozen IT folks including myself. About 300 so far since July 1, so it’s not me—it’s you corporate giant. Having said that, I do need to pay the mortgage and for Southeastern Cycling. If anyone is in IT or is in HR or a hiring manager hit me up at sttarlite at outlook dot com. Lots of varied IT experience in the project and IAM sides of the house. SOX stuff, too. So, needless to say, my head has been elsewhere the last few days.

News for 7-24-2024
Georgia Cyclocross Series Schedule Released

From Georgia Cyclocross

The 2024 Georgia Cyclocross schedule has been released! Many favorites are back with one new venue in Summerhill (Intown Atlanta). The C2 UCI Weekend will be at Nash Farm Nov. 16-17. More details coming soon!

Atlanta Streets Alive This Sunday!
From PropelATL
Atlanta Streets Alive: Back this Sunday 1PM-5PM, Peachtree St. A monthly Open Street presented by the Atlanta Department of Transportation wit