News for 4-22-2025
From Mountain Goat Adventures
2025 FOOL’S GOLD BIKE RACES – SEPTEMBER 13, 2025!
The 2025 Maxxis Tires Fools Gold will be held on September 13, 2025 at the beautiful Montaluce Winery , in Dahlonega, GA. This is a challenging but fun course that you will feel good about finishing! There are multiple aid station opportunities to ensure you stay fueled up during the race.
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 finishers! 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.
Podium shirt for all first place finishers in both races Commemorative event swag item for all participants, Soft and comfy tri-blend race shirt, Finisher Medals for all finishers in both races, Terrapin Beer and Moe’s for post-race calorie replenishment!, Free Primitive Camping at Montaluce Winery Friday and Saturday night!, Custom awards and prizes for all podium finishers in both races, Highly visible Course Markings and Course Marshals, Aid stations with plenty of calories, fluids, mechanical support and first aid supplies.
News for 4-15-2025
Tucker Ride Parking Important Info
From an email to me from the promoter or Tucker Day
“We are hosting Tucker Day this year on Saturday, May 3rd in Tucker GA. I’m wanting to let the cyclist who ride from Main St in Tucker on Saturday mornings about the roads being closed to bikes and cars from 6am-7pm. Make alternate plans for the start of the route.” Parking at Tucker High School will not be affected.
Decatur, GA Ride of Silence
From BikeLaw Georgia
The Decatur Ride of Silence is 5/21/25 at 6:30 pm at Decatur Square. It will end at at the Annual Bike Law GA Lawn Party at their offices.
ROPE MILL FAST + FURIOUS 15 MTB RACE – MAY 10th AT ROPE MILL PARK!
From Mountain Goat Adventures
Make plans to join us for our second SORBA Woodstock event of 2025! The Fast+Furious 15 course features nearly all the trails at Rope Mill Park and will begin along the concrete path to allow riders to space out before entering the singletrack portion of the course. Riders will turn right at the bridge and complete Moore’s Pass, Power House, Raceway and Turbine all in a clockwise direction. These trails are farily wide and allow for passing. Riders will then return across the bridge and complete Explorer Loops 1, 2, and 3 counter-clockwise. The course returns to the start/finish via singletrack trail that links Explorer to the parking lot, crosses the parking lot, then heads onto the Avalanche Trail where riders will proceed counter-clockwise on the Avalance Trail Loops 1, 2, and 3 and then head back to the start/finish to complete the course.
FREE RACE PHOTO DOWNLOADS AT THIS EVENT FROM DASHING IMAGES!! The categories are age based and the same as we are using for the Blankets Creek Dirty 15 Mile Race. You can see full details and a list of categories on the ROPE MILL FAST + FURIOUS 15 WEBSITE. GUARANTEED SHIRT SIZE DEADLINE APRIL 22nd! Register by this date to ensure you receive a shirt in the race logo design. Medals and sponsor prizes 3 deep in all categories, podium shirts for all first place finishers. We are also offering a separate 10k or half marathon trail run on a similar course in the morning before the bike race! This event is very similar to our previous event at Blankets Creek, with a run in the morning and bike race in the afternoon.
Allatoona Creek Park Work Party
The monthly work part at Allatoona Creek park is this Saturday 9 am-1 pm.
News for 4-12-2025
NC Grand Prix Returns for 2025
The NC Grand Prix UCI CX weekend returns for 2024 Nov. 22-23. The UCI announced the UCI CX schedule for this year. NC is the only stop in the Southeast. The next closes is Virginia’s Blue Ridge Go Cross in Roanoke, VA and Kings CX in Mason, OH. Trish’s Note: OH isn’t a bad drive. I’ve done Kings CX a few times.
USA Crits
USA Crits returned to Hapeville and Newnan, GA this past weekend. Cyclingnews.com has coverage. Local Michael Garrison won the Rock n Road Criterium on Saturday. Unfortunately I was not able to get to either race.
News for 4-11-2024
Race to Vahalla
From the promoter’s email
The Race to Valhalla is 17 days away, and we can’t wait to see you there! We’re bringing one of our best races to Main St. Walhalla, SC on April 26th. You’ll feel like a pro as the incredible town of Walhalla welcomes you to the finish line. With three incredible routes, Southeast Gravel is for everyone 72-mile long course that you’ll want to be sure you’ve brought your climbing legs. 48-mile short course for those who still want some of the challenge. 23-mile course for those just getting into gravel or looking for a laid-back. ride Choose your route, hit the gravel, and enjoy some of the best riding the Southeast has to offer!
With an amazing downtown start/finish venue in conjunction with an art festival, the entire town of Walhalla comes out for this event. On finishing, riders come down main street (which has been closed to traffic) for an amazing final mile stretch to the finish. We’re excited to share this epic weekend with you. Bring your family, bring your friends, and bring your bike! Whether you’re in it for the ride or for the fun, this is an event you won’t want to miss. See you on the gravel, The Southeast Gravel Team
Driver Arrested
The driver of the truck and trailer that struck and killed Carl Wiggins has been arrested. This is from the Newnan Coweta Scanner Traffic.
“Days after the passing of Carl Wiggers after being struck by a truck while bicycling down Old Hwy 85, the driver of that truck, Martyce Serrod Farmer, 62, of Senoia was arrested by the Georgia State Patrol and booked into the Coweta County Jail on the following charges.
Homicide by Vehicle – 2nd Degree (M)
Following too closely (M)
Defective Equipment (M)
Class of License (M)
He is currently being held without bond pending his first appearance. According to the GSP Crash Report released this morning, Farmer was traveling north on Old Hwy 85 behind Wiggers who the report states ” a cyclist with appropriate lighting and reflective equipment traveling in the northbound lane. ” The report continues, stating that Farmer was ” following too close and struck the the rear [ of Wiggers bicycle ] with the front bumper of [ the truck he was driving ]. According to the reporting trooper, Farmer stated he ” was traveling northbound and did not see the cyclist, ” and ” that he could not get stopped in time. ” The 1994 Ford Truck and trailer that Farmer was driving is owned by Carl McKnight, who Farmer lists as his employer in booking records.” Trish’s notes and disclaimers: Mr. Farmer is innocent until proven guilty by a court of law. I’ve heard from witnesses the vehicle was a semi truck and
News for 4-9-2025
Updating Southeastern Cycling
Thanks for being a supporter of Southeastern Cycling! If you have contacted me to post a press release about a ride, race, event, cycling news, or you have a question please give me about 72 hours to respond. Also, I’m not able to update the website “on demand” as I am generally staying busy. I work on SEC around 10:00 [m most nights, so look for the changes in the morning.
If you are a promoter and have urgent information about a change to an event, PLEASE USE THE EVENT SOCIAL MEDIA and other social media outlets. If you can contact the participants through your registration platform I recommend that as well.
As always Southeastern Cycling has been around for nearly 30 years because of YOUR support!
Radical Adventure Riders ATL (RAR ATL) Fundraiser
From RAR ATL
Going RAR ATL Monday, April 28 for a fundraiser! They having a game night and market on Monday, April 28, from 6 to 9 at CreateATL. Tickets range from $0 from $45; they’re trying to raise money for new shelves for our bike packing gear library. They loan bike packing stuff for their members and those interested in learning about bike packing. Purchase tickets here: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/radicaladventureridersatl/1613365
Chief Ladiga Trail Closure
From Jackson (AL) Parks and Recreation
Heads up, trail-goers! The Ladiga Trail will be closed for maintenance on Thursday, April 10th and Friday, April 11th from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The closure will be between the Jacksonville High School Spur and Warren Dr.
Please plan accordingly and use alternate routes during these hours. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your patience as we work to keep the trail in great shape!
News for 4-8-2025
Rider Struck by Semi Passes
On Saturday cyclist Carl Wiggins was struck by a semi on GA Hwy 85 near Senoia. He was evacuated to Grady Memorial Hospital, a Level 1 Trauma Center in Atlanta. The semi did stop, and reports from the scene said the driver tried to render aid. Much has been in the press, and I’ll put the links below. It is with sadness that Senoia Bikes reported Carl’s passing this morning. Please keep your family and friends in his thoughts during this time.
Senoia Bikes statement from Facebook:
News for 4-6-2025
Michael Garrison’s Season
Cyclingnews.com has a great article on local gravel and road pro Michael Garrison.
News for 4-4-2025
Rides Page Updated!!
The Atlanta group ride page is updated! I’ve cleaned up the rides and to the best of my knowledge they are correct. Please please contact the group/shop hosting the ride if you have questions. Southeastern Cycling does not host any of the rides.
Disclaimer: These rides are put on by various organizations and bike shops around the greater metro Atlanta, Georgia USA area. Some rides do not have a leader and are “pick up rides.” Contact the ride leader/shop/club to verify that the ride is still going on. Unless specified, these are hard training rides geared towards advanced riders and racers and those that have group riding experience. Aerobars or tri-bikes are not allowed on group rides. If you have them, do NOT ride in them in the group. Expect to be dropped and be on your own if you cannot keep up with the group. Beginner or no drop rides are specified in the description. Cycling is a dangerous sport. Southeastern Cycling, Trish Albert, and the sponsoring ride groups are not responsible if you get lost or hurt on these rides. You ride at your own risk and assume all responsibility for yourself and your equipment. All ride times given are Daylight Saving Time unless noted. Many rides stop after Daylight Savings Time ends. Check with the sponsoring organization for specifics about any rides. Please note that all times are PM (afternoon/evening) unless otherwise stated. The page is updated at the beginning of every Daylight Saving Time and throughout the year as we are made aware of ride changes. Most shops/groups have the GPS files available on their websites. Put it on your GPS or your phone. Since ride routes change often, I am no longer posting these. Please check with your health professional before beginning cycling.
News for 4-3-2025
Pedal Hilton Head Island
From Pedal Hilton Head Island
Ride with us at Pedal Hilton Head Island on May 4, 2025 and visit the #1 Island in the U.S.
Pedal Hilton Head Island 2025 features:
🚴♀️Your choice of ride! 5 cycling route options: 62-miles (2-paces), 40-miles, 30-miles, 20-miles, or 10-miles with starting times staged beginning at 7:30 AM from Lowcountry Celebration Park
🚴♀️ Included T-Shirt
🚴♀️ Post-Ride Pedal Party in the Park with free lunch and LIVE music from the Chilly Willy Band, beer on tap, shopping from cycling merchants, Palmetto Kettle Corn, Lowcountry Donuts & more!
🚴♀️ Our 2025 Bike Doctor Raffle – win an awesome bike!
Register today for just $85 or choose a $300 Pedal 4 A Kid option to get a commemorative cycling jersey + ride with a Club members photo on your back to give greater purpose to your ride! All proceeds benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head Island. Register now at https://www.pedalhhi.org
News for 4-2-2025
Cobb County (GA) Trail Markers
From a Kennesaw Police Dept. Facebook post
As Spring is upon us and the weather warms up, many people head outside. There are many miles of trails across Cobb County for citizens to enjoy. If an emergency were to occur while you are outdoors, first responders want to get to you as soon as possible. To help dispatchers and first responders locate you quicker, be familiar with these blue signs. These blue signs are Emergency Location Markers. Want to learn more? Head over to YouTube and watch this quick video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHHsp7zqnz0&feature=youtu.be
Trish’s Note: This is for all Cobb County trails in GA–paved or unpaved. Including the SIlver Comet, Allantoona Creek Park (mtb), the Mountains to River Trail, etc. It’s important to know this for emergency services! They can pinpoint your location to the exact place on a map.
Dick Lane Velodrome Certification Class
From the DLV and Brian Sullivan
Track 101
The first scheduled track certification class for 2025 will take place this coming weekend; April 5-6 (1pm to 4pm each day). This two-day session is designed to certify new riders for track training and racing. We’ll cover all of the basics. No previous track or fixed gear experience is needed. Bikes are provided. www.dicklanevelodrome.com/certification/
If you have questions about the session, email: brian@dicklanevelodrome.com. Note to previous attendees: Riders that have taken the class in the past are welcome to sit in for a refresher. Trish’s note: There is a fee for the class. Go to the registration page for info.
News for 3-31-2025
Spin the District
Press Release
ATLANTA – (March 28, 2025) – The ATL Airport District Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB), the destination marketing organization for the cities of College Park, Hapeville and Union City, Ga., today announced the return of Spin the District, the seventh annual cycling race series, which kicks off April 11 and will take place during multiple weekends in April and May. The series is the second-largest cycling event in Georgia and attracts all levels from around the world. Last year, 28 states and 17 countries were represented.
“Each year, we look forward to welcoming athletes, fans and families to experience high-energy cycling races, along with a variety of other festivities and activities showcasing the vibrant culture of the District,” said Mercedes Miller, president of the ATL Airport District CVB. “This event is not only about incredible cycling but also about showcasing the outstanding spirit and hospitality of our community, and we are thrilled to welcome the event back for its seventh year!”
Throughout Spin the District, a series of high-speed criterium races transform the streets of Hapeville, Union City, and College Park into adrenaline-pumping courses. Friday, April 11 marks the official start of Spin the District with a fast-paced city-block race and street party in Hapeville. The series continues during USA CRITS Speed Week with a disco-themed Union City Crit on Tuesday, April 29, and concludes with the Speed Week Finals in College Park on Sunday, May 4. Family-friendly block parties complement each race with activities for all ages and race fans at every level.
Hapeville Crit | Friday, April, 11
The cycling series will start off with a fast-paced city-block race and free street party near Hapeville’s Downtown Arts District. From 4–10 p.m., spectators can enjoy food trucks, beer, wine and cocktail vendors, a DJ, games and kids’ races. The pro women’s race begins at 7:10 p.m., followed by the pro men’s race at 8:10 p.m. on the seven-corner, 1.4-kilometer course. Cyclist registration and details can be accessed online.
Union City Crit | Tuesday, April 29
Union City’s twilight race begins at 4 p.m. with a disco-themed block party with food trucks, music, games and kids’ races. The women’s race starts at 7:10 p.m., followed by the men’s at 8:10 p.m. Attendees can expect tight corners, high-speed sprints, and an incredible finish under the streetlights. Cyclist registration and details can be accessed online.
College Park Crit | Sunday, May 4
USA Crits Speed Week Finals will take place at the College Park Crit, featuring a five-corner circuit with a screaming fast back straight and an uphill finishing straight guaranteed to wear down even the toughest riders. The competition will include some of the world’s fastest cyclists racing for the crown through the historic streets of downtown College Park, as well as two kids’ races—one for children on two wheels and another for those on trikes, training wheels or balance bikes. The action starts at noon with College Park’s signature street party, including an artist market, food trucks, music and family-friendly activities. Cyclist registration and details can be accessed online.
Spectator attendance is free for all three criteriums. For more information on how to be a part of this experience as a participant, volunteer or vendor, visit SpinTheDistrict.com and follow @SpinTheDistrict on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.
News for 3-28-2025
Dick Lane Velodrome Opening 50th Anniversary
Many here know I’ve raced at the DLV off and on since about 2000. It’s dear to my heart. Over the last several days Brian Sullivan, introductory track cycling coach, has posted notes on the opening of the Dick Lane Velodrome in 1975. I’m sharing these with his permission. Photos by Robert George.
Dick Lane Velodrome March 23, 1975 grand opening notes.
The inaugural event (with Pepsi main sponsorship) was named the “Meet Of Champions”. I haven’t found a full rider list. These are the rider names I currently have: Dave Chauner, Chris Haley, Jim Ochowicz, Jeff Saunders, Jack Simes, Steve Woznick and Roger Young.
These two race images (by Robert F. George) show a mass start and a team pursuit event from that day. A number of features you’ll notice in both photos…
• The infield is all grass.
• The track markings have not been added yet. Lines would be painted in for the first time between April and the first week of May.
• The small bridge across the creek had yet to be built. Same is true for the first-generation official’s stand.
• The infamous tree in turn three is present. Our favorite surviving tree between 3/4 is still there to this day – only a bit larger.
• The concrete steps/seating area did not exist at this time.
• There was some fencing in turns 1/2, 3/4 but nothing more along the top edge of the track.
• There was a flagpole in the infield but this was later replaced with a more substantial version and moved to a different spot.
• The culverts in both turns are located at the edge of the apron. These were later extended further away from the track.
• A track rules sign was installed in the infield. This hung around for a while.
• The track is remarkably free of leaves.
News for 3-25-2025
Support Local Events
From Jason at Chainbuster Racing in response to several events in the SE being cancelled recently
Trish’s Note: I am publishing this in its entirety since it is so important! Posting with permission.
Join Chainbuster in the Fight to Save Local Races
We have received numerous emails and messages related to the potential of us canceling future events.
Here is a brief overview of current industry conditions. It is a tough time to be a race promoter. The cost of putting on an event is at an all-time high while registration numbers are at an all-time low. We are not immune from the reality or the arithmetic of that scenario. But the truth for us is that we’ve never really “made money” from our race series. We’re not unique. No one that we know is getting rich or retiring off race revenue. We’ve always had other vocations and other opportunities that filled the financial deficiencies. For the moment, we still do, but if the need arises for me to return to digging ditches and gluing pipe, I won’t hesitate to do whatever is necessary.
Currently, the numbers for our remaining MTB events are sufficient to avoid cancellation due to low registrations. We made the decision to cancel Rose City Rampage because we had 18 registrants. We understand why. That particular event is far from our typical participation base, and we were the third event in the same area in a three-month period. Market saturation is also a battle that we fight.
What can you do to help?
First, please do whatever is best for your family. The economic situation is tough for so many. We have heard of many who would love to race but can’t afford it. We understand that paying for the wattage coming into your home is far more important than paying for the wattage coming off your cranks. But we also understand that the community associated with Chainbuster events can be therapeutic and critical for getting through tough times. Don’t hang up the bike or the community just because “you can’t afford it.” We’ll do everything we can to help you figure it out. If you are someone who can afford it, contact your local race director to pay for entries that can be gifted to those who have the passion but lack the resources.
The second thing you can do is register early. This isn’t really a new thing. It has always been important. Registering early often has the incentive of a lower price point, but the reason ALL promoters offer this is that it helps with logistics like portable toilets, aid station supplies, meal planning, etc. If you’ve been to any race from any promoter and thought the number of toilets were lacking, it’s likely because they had to be ordered based on registration numbers 3-4 weeks prior to race day. The risk of registering early has also been largely mitigated by liberal transfer policies and, when possible, refunds.
Lastly, please support local promoters. Sure, almost everyone wants a bucket list experience of lining up in a festival environment with thousands of participants, spectators, and vendors. But that’s NOT where the racing experience begins. It starts with the passion and community of grassroots racing. It starts with lining up against your buddies, talking smack that you may or may not be able to back up, and letting the joy of community and camaraderie rule the day. The hug or fist bump at the end means more than any medal ever could. However, if we as a collective cycling community don’t fight to save the local racing scene, the opportunity for that experience will fade away, and all that will remain will be expensive, impersonal corporate experiences.
I spent yesterday looking at my calendar and searching for local events to add to it. I ask that you join me in the fight to save local races. — Jason
News for 3-25-2025
Fox Trail Openings
From FOX XC Trails
The MTB trails at the Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta will be open to the public on select dates! Minimum $5.00 donation (Suggested $10.00). Please consider donating more. All riders must wear a helmet. All riders must stay on the trail. (No exploring) Course must be ridden in counter clockwise direction, arrow signs will point the way. Course entrance will close promptly at 12noon. All riders must sign a 2025 Waiver. These four openings are fundraisers for the local middle and high school mountain bike teams. Please support them and the youth development organization they participate in, GeorgiaCycling.org. Teams volunteer to open the trails and provide oversight. These are private trails, only open on these select days. Come enjoy our fantastic trails! Dates are April 26, May 10, and May 24. Trish’s note: Great chance to ride trails that are normally closed to the public!
Van Purser Foundation News
From the Van Purser Foundation
We’re back, and we’re gearing up for a fantastic 2025! The new year is already shaping up to be an exciting one, and we can’t wait to share what’s ahead. First up, we’re deep into planning for the 2025 All for One event. It’s slated for October 4, and trust us—you won’t want to miss it. We’ve got a new venue, fresh ideas, and plenty of exciting surprises in store to make this year’s event bigger and better than ever.
Beyond the event, we’re continuing our mission to support cyclists facing unexpected hardships. Whether through financial assistance, community outreach, or simply being there when it matters most, we’re committed to carrying on Van’s legacy of generosity and support. Thank you for being part of this incredible community. Your support makes everything we do possible. Stay tuned for updates, get ready for an unforgettable All for One event, and let’s continue making a difference—one ride at a time!
https://vanpurserfoundation.org
News for 3-24-2025
Anniston Chief Ladiga Trail Extension Ribbon Cutting
From the City of Anniston
The City of Anniston, Alabama, invites you to join us on April 24, 2025, as we celebrate a historic milestone—the official ribbon-cutting and grand opening of Anniston’s Chief Ladiga Trail extension! This event will be held in conjunction with Alabama Rails to Trails Month, as part of a statewide celebration of trail connectivity and outdoor recreation. The ceremony will take place on the portion of the trail behind Coldwater Mountain Brewpub at approximately 3:30 PM (CT), following a Rails-to-Trails Ride-In along Anniston’s newest section of the Chief Ladiga Trail.
A Trail with a Legacy In 2022, Anniston took the final step by purchasing the last 1.4 miles needed for completion from Norfolk Southern Railway. Just two years later, in 2024, the Anniston City Council awarded a $7.26 million construction bid to B&B Developers, paving the way for the city’s long-awaited trail extension.
The Final Connection With this new 6.5-mile expansion, the Chief Ladiga Trail will now stretch 39.5 miles, seamlessly linking Anniston’s Multimodal Amtrak Station to the Silver Comet Trail in Georgia. This achievement transforms the corridor into the longest paved pedestrian pathway in the United States—an uninterrupted 105-mile trail experience!
We invite cyclists, walkers, runners, and outdoor enthusiasts to join us for this momentous occasion. Come celebrate with us and take part in history as we cut the ribbon on a project that enhances connectivity, recreation, and economic growth in our region! Learn more: https://www.annistonal.gov/chief-ladiga. Link to Invitation: https://tinyurl.com/wsme2ax7.
Jackson County Brevet
The Jackson County Brevet is June 14!
For a 15% discount use code SECYCLING! There is limited time the code can be used, so register today before it expires! Registration is open! Experience the rolling/flat terrain of Jackson County and the endless scenic views throughout the ride. Proceeds donated to THE KELLY WILHITE APLASTIC ANEMIA RESEARCH FUND at Emory University. Every penny that goes to this Fund will go DIRECTLY to clinical research. Choose from 4 different routes!! 29, 46, 65 or 100 miles.
