January 2017 News

1-27-2017 CCA CalendarRoad CalendarRoad Calendar I have some of the preliminary Carolinas Cycling Association road race dates up on the Road Calendar. I’m in contact with them and will post more dates as I get them.

Southern Cross From Mountain Goat Adventures Register by 1/31 for Early Registration Pricing! Looking for an Epic Adventure? Check out the Maxxis Tires Southern Cross Ultra Gravel Grind. The course is 55 miles with a bit over 7,000 ft of elevation gain (two major climbs), and consists of pavement, gravel roads and some short sections of singletrack trail. The course is cross bike or mountain bike friendly, so pick your poison!2017 Race Highlights! ▪ Cash payout for Top 5 Open Men/Top 3 Open Women’s classes. ▪ $100 cash to first place finisher in each of the solo non-open classes
▪ 2017 Southern Cross is part of the Southeastern Gravel Series! We are teaming up with Chainbuster Racing to make the Southern Cross the second stop on the SGS tour. ▪ Super comfy cotton blend race shirt with new race logo (register by Feb 18 shirt size deadline to guarantee your size)▪ Improved course to help eliminate some of the early race bottlenecks, as well as provide an even better variety of terrain.▪ Finisher awards for all finishers!▪ Generous post race HOT meal (Moe’s Fajita Bar)▪ Well stocked aid station with hot soup, plenty of calories, fluids, mechanical support, first aid supplies and possibly a warm fire.
▪ Custom awards for all podium finishers▪ Post race water, soda and of course Terrapin Beer!▪ Loads of sponsor prizes to find good homes for!

1-26-2017 Atlanta WBL Ride #6 From the AWBL: Date: Saturday, Jan 28th, 2017, Time: 9:30AM  (Ride Mtg 9:15am), Place: 300 Peters St, Atlanta, GA 30317 (U-Haul location), Ride Time: 3 Hours, OVERALL AVERAGE FOR RIDE #6: This Series is based on ride time, not distance.  The overall average is controlled by our Ride Leaders.  For Ride #5, the averages will be: A group:  17.5 mph avg, B group:  15.5 mph avg, C group:  12.5 mph avg

New January Allatoona Creek Park Trail Work Day From SORBA West Georgia Allatoona Trail Party, This Saturday at 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM, Allatoona Creek Park 5690 Old Stilesboro Rd NW, Acworth, Georgia 30101, Rescheduled from the 21st. Looks like great weather Saturday! Help us build new trail at the park! Great work out and sense of accomplishment guaranteed! All tools and lunch provided. Wear long pants and sturdy, closed toed shoes. Winter is the best time to build trail.

1-25-2017 Nonesuch Cycle Tours Press Release ​Are you tired of riding in the heat in July and need a summer vacation idea?  There is a new tour company, Nonesuch Cycle Tours,​ leading 3 one week tours this July in Nova Scotia, Canada.  The tours are unique in that each day can be done either on road or gravel, so if you are looking for one more way to justify the CX or gravel grinder bike this may be it.  The tours are being led by Peter Henry, a cyclist from Richmond, VA who has been helping lead European tours for years.  These tours are fully supported and sagged so simply drop your bags each day and go ride.  With and average high temps of 72 degrees, it will be way more comfortable than the southeast for sure. (Trish’s note! I’m in to avoid some of the heat in July!)

1-24-2017  For IT IS ALTO WEEK!WBL WBL # 9: THE 20th ANNUAL GREAT PORTERFIELD TIRE ALTO WORLD CUP  http://www.porterfieldtireinc.com/hen: 21 January / Saturday, Time: 10 a.m (Window Open), Where: The Hub (5 Points-Athens), Length: 115 miles / 6 hours, Interactive map, Pee break: Mile 29, Store Stop: Alto ( Mile 52), Points: 6 ( 1 per hour)

1-22-2017 Beginner Women’s Clinic THIS Monday!  Join Amy Wooland and me for a Sorella Cycling beginner women’s clinic Monday at Cycleworks in Roswell from 6-7 pm.We will be covering some basic topis like:
1. Operating their road bikes including shifting, braking, correct position on their bike and the advantages of being properly fitted on their bikes.
2. Discuss maintenance on road and mountain bikes. Fixing a flat and lubrication will be covered.
3. Talk about organized road as well as mountain bike group rides that are planned in 2017 and how this can benefit their group.
A. Amy’s ride clinics for beginners.
B. Sorella/Cycleworks Gap rides.
C. Mountain bike rides lead by Angelica and Jessica.
4. If new members join Sorella on 1/23 they get a $20 “Wow card” that night.

1-21-2017 The Alto WBL is POSTPONED until Next Sat. because of the weather!

1-20-2017 Coldwater XC Rescheduled From Local Bike Racing:  Coldwater XC has been rescheduled to February 19th due to the weather this weekend. The trails will be wet and could cause damage if we raced this Sunday, therefore we have decided to push it back to our second date on the series calendar. All pre-registered riders can either get a full refund, or have their entry rolled over to the next date. Please email us at localbikeracing@gmail.com

1-19-2017 Calendar Updates I’m still waiting on the calendar releases from CCA and GBRA. Still waiting. I have a few dates that are confirmed marked as such on the Road Race calendar. The is MTB Race calendar updated as of yesterday. There are two XC MTB series in Georgia this year-the GoNuts series and the Georgia Championship Series (GCS). Both schedules are updated. It’s also a bit of a slow news month. I’m posting press releases and info. as I get them.

GATR Night Rides From GATR: All rides begin at 6:30 p.m.  Please come early to sign in, get your lights setup and get into groups.
Thursday, January 26th @ Tribble Mill Park
Friday, February 3rd @ Harbins Park
Wednesday, February 9th @ Tribble Mill Park
Thursday, February 15th @ Yellow River Park
Thursday, February 23rd @ Harbins Park
Friday, March 3 @ Tibble Mill Park

Sope Creek Work PartySope Creek Work From SORBA Atlanta party Saturday 9 am-noon, First Work Party of the year for Sope Creek this Saturday. We will be working on winter tread damage and meeting at the Columns Drive parking lot at 9 AM. Please wear closed toed shoes, long pants, bring water, snacks and gloves. We’ll bring the Goldberg’s Bagels.

1-16-2017 Blanket’s Creek Trail Party From SORBA Woodstock Blankets Trail Party Saturday, January 21 at 9 AM – 1 PM The January trail party will be at Blankets Creek Saturday the 21st. Due to rain, we had a very small turnout for December and that has us a little behind on our maintenance. We need a good turn out so we can ensure the trails remain top notch. We will provide the tools, leadership, lunch and a great time giving back to the trails you love. You need to bring gloves, water and wear sturdy closed toe shoes.

Sara Babb Work Party From SORBA West Georgia Sara Babb Trail Work Party Saturday, January 21 at 9 AM We will be starting on the new beginner loop at Sara Babb Park located directly behind the parking lot. With a good turnout we should be able to make considerable progress. There is not much undergrowth and little elevation change.
1-12-2017

Chainbuster Racing Press Release Mark your calendars for another great season of Chain Buster racing.  We are back with the same Southeastern Endurance Cup (SEC) and Southeastern Gravel Cup (SGC) series that will provide racers with opportunities to race and explore some of the best venues and courses the South has to offer.  We have also partnered with Mountain Goat Adventures to include Southern Cross in the SGC series for 2017.
Jan 28. The Green Gobbler, SEC Series #1
Feb. 25 Assault on Currahhee Mountain
March 11 Battle for Paynes Creek SEC Series #2
March 25 12 Hours of Iron Maiden
April 22 Shake ‘N Brake, SGC Series #3
Aug. 19 Red Clay Ramble
Sept. 30 Big Ring Challenge, SEC Series #4
Oct. 14 Chewacla Challenge,SEC #5
Oct. 28 Taco Stand Classic, SEC Series #6, Series Championship

1-11-2017 Cross Country Racing Returns to Coldwater Mountain January 22nd Press Release: Cross Country Racing Returns to Coldwater Mountain January 22nd The First Race of the new Alabama XC Series by Local Bike Racing Coldwater XC is the first of several new races coming to Alabama in 2017 in Local Bike Racing’s expansion into the Southeast. Coldwater Mountain, located a short drive from Anniston, AL is conveniently located between Birmingham and Atlanta. Racers will get to enjoy the beautiful trails in a fun and competitive format that welcomes all skill levels.

Races include Elite, Sport, Beginners, Juniors, Clydesdale and more, with route options ranging from 8.5 to 24 miles. There will also be a free kid’s mountain bike event on the simple 2 mile loop near the start/finish area at the end of the day. Events are sanctioned by USA Cycling, and a portion of the proceeds goes towards supporting the local mountain bike association and the Alabama High School Cycling League. Registration can be found on USA Cycling, maps and more information are available on the website localbikeracing.com. Please contact Alex Montoya, the race organizer, for more information or questions at alexander@localbikeracing.com.

WBL Two rides this weekend! #7 on Saturday and #8 as a make up on Sunday! WBL # 7: 14 January: The Ken Bike Law-Classic City Bakery Bowman Classic/ 5 hours, 93 miles,  When: 14 January / Saturday, Time: 10 a.m (Window Open), Where: The Hub (5 Points-Athens), Length:  93 miles /  5 hours, Interactive map, Pee break: Mile 22, Store Stop: Bowman ( Mile 44), Points: 5 ( 1 per hour)

WBL # 8: The Atlantis Hydroponics Madison Classic When: 15 January / Sunday, Time: 10 a.m (Window Open), Where: The Hub (5 Points-Athens), Length: 83 miles / 4 hours, 15 minutes, Interactive map, Pee break: Mile 22, Store Stop: Appalachee ( Mile 47), Points: 4 ( 1 per hour)

Atlanta WBL Looking for something more your pace? Try the Atlanta WBL!  DATE:  Saturday, Jan 14th, 2017, START TIME:  9:30AM   (Ride Mtg 9:15am), PLACE:  300 Peters St, Atlanta, GA 30317 (U-Haul location), RIDE TIME:  2-hr 40-min, OVERALL AVERAGE FOR RIDE #5: This Series is based on ride time, not distance.  The overall average is controlled by our Ride Leaders.  For Ride #5, the averages will be: A group: 17.0 mph avg, B group: 15.0 mph avg, C group: 12.5 mph avg

1-10-2017 Dick Lane Velodrome News From the DLV: Next Workday Saturday February 18th at 9:00a.m. We’ll have some painting and concrete repairs to knock out and picking up any left over leaves still on the ground. You can support the DLV by doing what you already do! Buy groceries! If you signed up before, you have to renew each year!

Beginner’s Class Dates for 2017! March Weekend: 11th and 12th, April Thursdays: 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th, April Weekend: 15th and 16th, May Thursdays: 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th, June Thursdays: 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, June Weekend: 3rd and 4th, September Thursdays: 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th, September Weekend: 16th and 17th

Youth Cycling League Starts Up March 13th! This Year We’ll Be Offering Three Classes: Beginner and Intermediate stay on Monday’s and Thursday 5:30 and 6:30 respectively and Advanced Will Meet on Thursdays at 5:30! Look for more details and contact from coaches soon about which session your children should attend.

Tour of the Southern Highlands The 2017 Tour of the Southern Highlands Stage Race March 3-5, 2017, Woodstock-Ballground.  Registration is open for this year’s most EPIC PRO/AM STAGE RACE IN THE SOUTHEAST Register NOW to reserve your spot to compete for the Sprinter’s, Climber’s and Leader’s Jerseys in every category & class Declare your team of 3 or more for the team competitions in Men’s & Women’s P1/2, Men’s 2/3 & Masters 35+.

Up the Creek There’s no place like Rome for the 27th Annual Up the Creek Bike and Trail Ride Registration is Open! Don’t miss the 27th Annual UTC bike and trail ride in lovely Rome, GA.  Choose from the Harbin Clinic trail ride along the Heritage Trails or a 32, 53, 71, 104 and 109 bike rides along the most beautiful roads in the state. Where: The rides start at The Forum in downtown Rome, (301 Tribune Street, Rome, GA) When: Saturday, April 29, Road Rides Roll out at 8am, Trail Rides Roll out at 9am WHY: strawberry ice cream for a SAG stop, dri-fit shirts (men’s and women’s styles), Southern hospitality, beautiful riding, the best marked route, homemade peanut butter balls, discount on food at local Rome restaurants, a photo finish, and the proceeds benefit TRED working to enhance, educate, and expand the trails in Rome and Floyd County.

1-6-2017 Advertise on Southeastern Cycling Do you want to support the south’s largest resource for racing and Atlanta’s Go To website for group rides and cycling information? Advertise on Southeastern Cycling! Rates are very reasonable, and discounts are offered for multi-month ads. Contact me for more information!

SE Cycling Press Release Guidelines: When submitting a press release to Southeastern Cycling, please include What (Event Name), Who (Promoter/Sponsoring Entity), When (Date and Time), Where (Location w/Street address), How (other details), Contact (Website to get more information). Keep is short. 1-2 paragraphs is fine. I reserve the right to edit all submissions for clarity and length. Submit in Word or Text (ex. email) form. I am not able to publish photos or flyers at this time.

WBL NewsDetails on the WBL website! The Saturday WBL has been moved to NEXT Sunday. This Sunday’s Ladies Classic will start at 11 am!

Hincapie Spring Training Series Details on Hincapie Spring Training Series are finalized and registration is live!

1-5-2017 Allatoona Creek Park Workday From SORBA West Georgia Allatoona Creek Park Workday,  Saturday, January 21 at 9:30 PM – 1:30 PM Help us build new trail at the park! Great work out and sense of accomplishment guaranteed! All tools and lunch provided. Wear long pants and sturdy, closed toed shoes. Winter is the best time to build trail. Hope to see a large turnout.

C4 Base Rides Conyers Covington Cycle Club The will have the annual C4 Base Rides starting this Saturday (weather pending) at C-town Bikes at 8:00 am. (Trish’s Note: These are not beginner rides. Come prepared to average at least 17 mph. Download the Garmin files in case you get dropped. I’ve been told there may be a “B” group at 14-15 mph depending on who shows up and that it may be “no drop.”)

Sharon’s Ride EFGA is excited to bring Sharon’s Ride back to Georgia for its second year! Sharon’s Ride is held within several states throughout the county and is a widely known epilepsy fundraiser nationwide. The ride will feature 30 and 60 mile courses for cyclists of all levels and ages. When: Saturday, April 22, 2017 Where: Sosebee Cylcing Park | 465 Simpson Rd NE | White, GA 30184 Time: Day Of Registration – 7:00AM | 60 Mile – 8:00AM | 30 Mile – 9:00AM Fees: $30 in advance | $40 after 4/18 The Epilepsy Foundation of Georgia (EFGA) is the only health agency in Georgia dedicated to serving more than 150,000 Georgians who have epilepsy and seizure disorders statewide. The foundation seeks to improve the quality of life for people with epilepsy and their families through community education activities for all age levels and comprehensive set of client service programs. The foundation also reaches out to the community at large to reduce the stigma that is often attached to epilepsy and educate the public on seizure recognition and first aid.

1-4-2017 Allatoona Creek Park Open Allatoona Creek Park is back open! In January trails on the main side of the road including VooDoo, Hocus Pocus, Mason’s etc. are open after 10:00 for mountain bikers, runners, etc. Only hunters are allowed before 10:00 am. Trails on the dog park (Turtleback, Red Baron, Whippersnapper) side are open during regular park hours and need to be accessed from the Pitner Road Dog Park.  Check the SORBA West Georgia website to see if the trails are open because of weather conditions–important with a ll the rain we’ve had lately. Toona will be open again fully in February.

1-3-2017 2017 Calendars I have the TBRA calendar up on the Road Calendar. Others are expected by the end of January. I am updating Mountain bike races as I get the information.

Two WBL Rides This Weekend! From the WBL WBL # 6: The Atlantis Hydroponics Madison Classic / (Pro sprints begin) / A Memorial Ride in honor of our friend Len Slote, When: 7 January / Saturday, Time: 10 a.m (Window Open), Where: The Hub (5 Points-Athens), Length: 83 miles / 4 hours, 15 minutes, Pee break: Mile 22, Store Stop: Appalachee ( Mile 47) Points: 4 ( 1 per hour) 2 Intermezzo Sprints, Final Attack Zone (PRO SPRINT): Flat Rock Road Attack Zone  Interactive map

(Rescheduled from Jan. 1) WBL # 7: WBL # 6: THE The Independent Baking Company Ladies Day Classic When: 1 January / Sunday, Time: 10 a.m (Window Open), Where: The Hub (5 Points-Athens), Length: 65 miles / 3 hours, 15 minutes, Pee break: Mile 22, Store Stop: Hoschton ( Mile 31), Points: 4 ( 1 per hour plus 1 New Year’s Day Point!), Intermezzo Sprints: None:  Final Attack Zone (LADIES ONLY SPRINT): Final Attack Zone will open when the pack turns right at Alligator Pond (Mile 57). Ride 1 mile uphill to Pink Church line. Interactive map

1-2-2017 Southern Cross News From Mountain Goat Adventures:  Looking for an Epic Adventure? Check out the Maxxis Tires Southern Cross Ultra Gravel Grind. The course is 55 miles with a bit over 7,000 ft of elevation gain (two major climbs), and consists of pavement, gravel roads and some short sections of singletrack trail. The course is cross bike or mountain bike friendly, so pick your poison! 350 rider field limit for 2017 ▪ Cash payout for Top 5 Open Men/Top 3 Open Women’s classes. ▪ $100 cash to first place finisher in each of the solo non-open classes ▪ 2017 Southern Cross is part of the Southeastern Gravel Series! We are teaming up with Chainbuster Racing to make the Southern Cross the second stop on the SGS tour. More details on the can be found HERE. ▪ Super comfy cotton blend race shirt with new race logo (register by Feb 18 shirt size deadline to guarantee your size) ▪ Improved course to help eliminate some of the early race bottlenecks, as well as provide an even better variety of terrain. ▪ Finisher awards for all finishers! ▪ Generous post race HOT meal (Moe’s Fajita Bar) ▪ Well stocked aid station with hot soup, plenty of calories, fluids, mechanical support, first aid supplies and possibly a warm fire. ▪ Custom awards for all podium finishers ▪ Post race water, soda and of course Terrapin Beer!
▪ Loads of sponsor prizes to find good homes for!

The 2017 Southeastern Gravel Series features four Ultra-X gravel races in Georgia and Alabama. Each race has a different style course with unique character and challenges that will require a well rounded racer to take home the series title and Chain Buster hardware. To compete for series prizes, racers must enter all 4 races in a single season. Points-series results are calculated based on a racer’s 3 best finishes from all Ultra-X races. The SGS Series ends with prizes and raffles at a banquet hosted by Terrapin Brewery.

Fools Gold 60 Mile MTB Race – September 16, 2017 We are excited to announce that registration for the 2017 Maxxis Tires Fools Gold 60 Mile Mountain Bike Race is now open. The Maxxis Tires Fools Gold is scheduled for September 16, 2017 at the beautiful Anderson Creek Retreat, in Ellijay, GA. We received great positive feedback in 2016 about Anderson Creek Retreat and we are looking forward to building upon that momentum and continuing to raise the bar on this event. The 2017 Maxxis Tires Fool’s Gold will offer only a 60 Mile option. The decision to drop the 90 mile course was made after seeing a steady drop in numbers so that we could allocate those resources to making the 60 mile event better, as historically the shorter course has comprised over 75% of event participants. Those who normally race the longer distance will still be challenged by our 60 mile course, and you will arrive at the beer and fajitas several hours sooner! 400 rider field limit for 60 mile race.

12-30-2016 Trish’s Year End Thanks I have to thank the many people and businesses that have supported me and Southeastern Cycling this year!
-To my awesome Sorella Cycling sisters-thank you for supporting my crazy notion of getting back into racing track. Cross season! All I’ll say is #DoItfortheHandups!!
-Smyrna Bicycles What would I do without Tom, Brown, and Andrew at Smyrna Bicycles keeping my wheels in top condition!?
-Hincapie Sportswear has kept Sorella Cycling looking stylin’ with their amazing cycling clothing for years now. I always get compliments on my kits!
-My DLV Track Family-Ya’ll are awesome! I’m so lucky to count you as friends, training partners, and rivals!
-Coach C-Thanks for taking me to Masters TrackNats and helping me get my first National Championships Medals! I feel like I came a long way in a short time!
-Atlanta Cycling-You don’t know how many nutrition products I bought last year. Thank you for your support of Sorella and Southeastern Cycling. Plus, host to some of the area’s best group rides!
-Free Elite – There is not a shop in Atlanta that does more for mountain biking causes! My dirty mountain bike thanks you! I still love my Kuat rack!
-Outback Bikes – Pete, all I can say is thank you for your years of support! Ride What You Dig!
-Grayson Tudor State Farm – Thanks for keeping cyclists insured just in case the worst happens and for your awesome support of SE Cycling and GACX!!
-Cycle Therapy-Best bike shop in Rome! The new digs are gorgeous! I can’t wait for Winter Cross!
-Bike Law Georgia – Ken and Bruce–Thanks! You two have helped me both personally and as supporters of Southeastern Cycling! Best cycling litigators in the city!
-Parks Law – Clay is a huge supporter of cycling and SE Cycling! Please see Parks Law for your general law needs!
-NetCom Payment Systems & Amy Plummer-You are very dear to me, friend! Thank you for your support throughout the year! We are going to rock 2017!
-Van Michael Salon – Van I know of no other trail named after a hair salon. Ya’ll keep me looking great throughout the year, and SO many other cycling ladies as well! Gotta look amazing while riding!

I’m looking forward to am amazing 2017!

12-29-2016 Atlanta WBL  Atlanta WBL  for Saturday Date: Saturday, Dec 31st, 2016, Time:  9:30AM  (Ride Mtg 9:15am), 300 Peters St, Atlanta, GA 30317 (U-Haul location), Ride Time:  2-hr 20-min,  OVERALL AVERAGE FOR RIDE #4: This Series is based on ride time, not distance.  The overall average is controlled by our Ride Leaders.  For Ride #4, the averages will be: A group:  16.5 mph avg, B group:  14.5 mph avg, C group:  12.5 mph avg lease leave cleaner than you found them; we don’t want to wear out our welcome.  Indoor (warm) bathrooms are a huge plus!!! IMPORTANT:  Which group do you ride in?  All Groups are based on what your typical overall average speed is on any given ride in Atlanta: Group A: 19 mph avg and higher, Group B1: 17-18 mph avg,  Group B2: 15-16 mph avg, Group C:  12.5-14 mph avg

12-28-2016 Two WBL Rides There are two WBL rides for your pleasure/torture this weekend.  WBL # 5: THE ANGELA BEWLEY DENTAL PRACTICE COACHING ROOT CANAL CLASSIC When: 31 December / Saturday, Time: 10 a.m (Window Open) Where: The Hub (5 Points-Athens),  Length: 80 miles / 4 hours, Pee break: Mile 20, Store Stop: Paoli Junction ( Mile 40), Points: 4 ( 1 per hour) Intermezzo Sprints: None:  Final Attack Zone (NON PRO SPRINT): Gene Dixon Attack Zone / Hargrove Lake (9 miles): Attack Zone will open when pack turns right on Hargrove Lake Road. Ride 6 miles and turn right on Beaverdam. Ride 1 mile and turn left on Smithonia (must yield to cars). Ride 1 mile and turn right on Billy Melton Road. Sprint line is 1.5 miles away / line in road (Madison County sign). *You are eligible to sprint if you are: (1) 35 or above regardless of category, OR (2) 19 or below regardless of category, OR (3) not at Male Cat 1 or 2 racer. *NEW: THIS YEAR, THE PROS, 1s and 2s SHOULD NOT HELP CHASE OR GIVE LEADOUTS IN FINAL ATTACK ZONE. INSTEAD, STAY IN PACK AND HOOT AND HOLLER.  Interactive map

12-26-2016 Small Calendar Updates I made a few small updates to the 2017 Race Calendar. Last week I was in contact with Stuart Lamp, the regional USAC rep. (Stuart is great if you ever need anything or have questions about USAC!!) He said that GBRA is working to nail down a few dates before releasing the full calendar. I already have a some dates up. I know & have confirmed that the East Atlanta/Litespeed-BMW crit is not returning. Grant Park will be coming back. Twilight and Roswell have moved back to their regular race weekend where they should be. TBRA should have their calendars ready in a couple of weeks. Alabama’s races are updated with the known dates. I expect NC/SC to have their race calendar ready in Feb. They are usually a bit behind the rest of them because of the extensive calendar. I updated mtb races last week. A lot of the smaller promoters–mostly mtb and gravel–have not made updates to their race websites. I check about every other week for those.If you know of any dates, please email me at sttarlite at hotmail.com or use the contact page.

December 2016 News

12-29-2016 Atlanta WBL  Atlanta WBL  for Saturday Date: Saturday, Dec 31st, 2016, Time:  9:30AM  (Ride Mtg 9:15am), 300 Peters St, Atlanta, GA 30317 (U-Haul location), Ride Time:  2-hr 20-min,  OVERALL AVERAGE FOR RIDE #4: This Series is based on ride time, not distance.  The overall average is controlled by our Ride Leaders.  For Ride #4, the averages will be: A group:  16.5 mph avg, B group:  14.5 mph avg, C group:  12.5 mph avg lease leave cleaner than you found them; we don’t want to wear out our welcome.  Indoor (warm) bathrooms are a huge plus!!! IMPORTANT:  Which group do you ride in?  All Groups are based on what your typical overall average speed is on any given ride in Atlanta: Group A: 19 mph avg and higher, Group B1: 17-18 mph avg,  Group B2: 15-16 mph avg, Group C:  12.5-14 mph avg

12-28-2016 Two WBL Rides There are two WBL rides for your pleasure/torture this weekend.  WBL # 5: THE ANGELA BEWLEY DENTAL PRACTICE COACHING ROOT CANAL CLASSIC When: 31 December / Saturday, Time: 10 a.m (Window Open) Where: The Hub (5 Points-Athens),  Length: 80 miles / 4 hours, Pee break: Mile 20, Store Stop: Paoli Junction ( Mile 40), Points: 4 ( 1 per hour) Intermezzo Sprints: None:  Final Attack Zone (NON PRO SPRINT): Gene Dixon Attack Zone / Hargrove Lake (9 miles): Attack Zone will open when pack turns right on Hargrove Lake Road. Ride 6 miles and turn right on Beaverdam. Ride 1 mile and turn left on Smithonia (must yield to cars). Ride 1 mile and turn right on Billy Melton Road. Sprint line is 1.5 miles away / line in road (Madison County sign). *You are eligible to sprint if you are: (1) 35 or above regardless of category, OR (2) 19 or below regardless of category, OR (3) not at Male Cat 1 or 2 racer. *NEW: THIS YEAR, THE PROS, 1s and 2s SHOULD NOT HELP CHASE OR GIVE LEADOUTS IN FINAL ATTACK ZONE. INSTEAD, STAY IN PACK AND HOOT AND HOLLER.  Interactive map

WBL # 6: THE The Independent Baking Company Ladies Day Classic When: 1 January / Sunday, Time: 10 a.m (Window Open), Where: The Hub (5 Points-Athens), Length: 65 miles / 3 hours, 15 minutes, Pee break: Mile 22, Store Stop: Hoschton ( Mile 31), Points: 4 ( 1 per hour plus 1 New Year’s Day Point!),
Intermezzo Sprints: None:  Final Attack Zone (LADIES ONLY SPRINT): Final Attack Zone will open when the pack turns right at Alligator Pond (Mile 57). Ride 1 mile uphill to Pink Church line. Interactive map

12-26-2016 Small Calendar Updates I made a few small updates to the 2017 Race Calendar. Last week I was in contact with Stuart Lamp, the regional USAC rep. (Stuart is great if you ever need anything or have questions about USAC!!) He said that GBRA is working to nail down a few dates before releasing the full calendar. I already have a some dates up. I know & have confirmed that the East Atlanta/Litespeed-BMW crit is not returning. Grant Park will be coming back. Twilight and Roswell have moved back to their regular race weekend where they should be. TBRA should have their calendars ready in a couple of weeks. Alabama’s races are updated with the known dates. I expect NC/SC to have their race calendar ready in Feb. They are usually a bit behind the rest of them because of the extensive calendar. I updated mtb races last week. A lot of the smaller promoters–mostly mtb and gravel–have not made updates to their race websites. I check about every other week for those.If you know of any dates, please email me at sttarlite at hotmail.com or use the contact page.


Happy Winter Solstice, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukah, & Happy Holidays for whatever you celebrate this time of year!

12-21-2016 WBL WBL # 4: The Johnny Mercury Series Christmas Eve Day Celebration! When: 24 December / Saturday  Time: 10 a.m (Window Open), Where: The Hub (5 Points, Athens, GA):. Length: 47 miles / 2 hours, 20 minutes, Exit Route: Milledge > University > College Station > Barnett Shoals, Pee break: Mile 21, Store Stop: None, Points: 3 ( 1 per hour plus 1 Christmas Bonus Point), Attack Zone: Soon!, Interactive map

12-20-2016 Macon CX Photos Macon CX photos are up at http://sadlebred.smugmug.com. There are plenty from each race and the overall series awards.


This is what the CX spirit is all about! Sorellas Chloe Murock & Brittany Montgomery and the Spindle’s Molly Russell finish Macon’s single speed race with big smiles.


Masters racer or Gazelle at Macon CX?

12-19-2016 Holiday Airport Rides Airport Ride bonanza A year end ! Monday, December 26th- Airport- 10AM., Monday, January 2 – Airport- 10AM The above Airport rides are in addition to those folks that want to / are able to / ride on Sunday December 25th  (probably a smaller turn out)and Sunday January 1 (most likely a solid turnout #workoutthehangover).  As always, short and long options will be available. Some people have suggested that a later Airport ride start on Dec 25 might allow more people to ride.  The suggestion has been for a 1pm start time. Check the Airport Ride Facebook page later this week to see if anything has been posted.

12-16-2016 Charlotte Motor Speedway TT Series News  From the Carolina Cycling Time Trial Association (CCTTA), organizer of the Charlotte Motor Speedway Cycling Time Trial Series: We (the CCTTA) have been in discussions with Start2Finish and they have agreed to put on events for 2017. Look for future communications from Neal Boyd and the S2F team on the events for next year. Neal has done a tremendous job with the Timing and Registration of the Time Trial Series the past few years and is very familiar with what is required. We feel sure the TT events will more than meet rider expectations with the S2F team handling the events. End of the CCTTA: Unfortunately the CCTTA cannot continue to put on the events in the future mainly due to ongoing financial challenges. For the past several years the CCTTA has been subsidizing the cost of the events from funds that were set aside to keep the Series going. Consequently, the CCTTA Board members have decided to disband the organization.

Series History: The Time Trial Series at Charlotte Motor Speedway has a long history that dates back well over 20 years. From what we know, it is the only Cycling series of its kind where cyclists can participate in ongoing events like a Series at a Major Speedway. The Series was started by local cyclists with the assistance of Humpy Wheeler in the early 90s and was later formalized by the Tar Heel Cyclists in Charlotte. In 2004 the Carolina Cycling Time Trial Association (CCTTA) was formed to organize and operate the events. The CCTTA is a 501c4 Not for Profit organization and its membership is made up primarily of representatives from Area Bicycle Clubs (ABCs). The CCTTA has been putting on the events since 2004. One of the main principles of the events is they have been open to riders of all abilities above a minimum age. If you’ve ever ridden or attended an event you saw a great diversity of cyclists and equipment. The CCTTA is very thankful for the success we enjoyed for twelve years of putting on the events. We were able to give back over $100,000 to the local community with a lot of those dollars going back to our supporting Area Bicycle Clubs. We would also like to thank the many volunteers and organizations that made the events possible. The Charlotte Motor Speedway has been extremely cooperative and hospitable throughout the 20+ years of hosting the events. We were able to partner with the Mecklenburg Amateur Radio Society that played a vital role in monitoring the safety of the entire Speedway and provided instant communications if there was an incident. Lastly, the support and the involvement of the Area Bicycle Club (ABCs) and hours of volunteering was tremendous. While there were individual unaffiliated volunteers and bicycle clubs that would participate from time to time, in 2016, the active ABCs were the Cannonballs Cycling Team, Spirited Cyclist Cycling Club, Race City Cycling and Gaston County Cyclists. Farewell from the CCTTA: Thanks to those of you who attended or participated in one of the past events. It was our pleasure to have served you and we look forward to seeing you out on the road.

12-14-2016 Blanket’s Creek Trail Party From SORBA Woodstock: Come join us this Saturday for our last trail party in 2016. Bring gloves, water and all your friends, we will provide the rest. Lunch will follow. 9 am-1 pm at Blanket’s Creek.

Sope Creek Work Party From SORBA Atlanta: Saturday at 9 AM-Noon We will be working on the upper loop (Sope Creek Loop) doing tread work on the section just above the Sope Creek Gorge. We will also be doing some closures. Please wear closed toed shoes, long pants, bring gloves, water and snacks. Bring your epi pen if you are allergice to bees. Be perpared to hike in and wear some warm clothes, it’s gonna be cold. We will see you there!

Atlanta WBL: **CANCELLED** WEATHER REPORT:  Forecast shows rain Friday night and Saturday morning.  NO RIDE if raining.  Final Call if Ride is a ‘Go’ or ‘No-Go” will be Friday night, 10 pm.  It will be posted Atlanta WBL’s page. Date:  Saturday, Dec 17th, 2016, 9:30AM (Ride Mtg 9:15am), 300 Peters St, Atlanta, GA 30317 (U-Haul location), RIDE TIME:  2-hr OVERALL AVERAGE FOR RIDE #3: This Series is based on ride time, not distance.  The overall average is controlled by our Ride Leaders.  For Ride #1, the averages will be: A group:  16.0 mph avg, B group:  14.0 mph avg, C group:  11.0 mph avg IMPORTANT:  Which group do you ride in?  All Groups are based on what your typical overall average speed is on any given ride in Atlanta:~  Group A:  19 mph avg and higher, ~  Group B1:  17-18 mph avg, ~  Group B2:  15-16 mph avg, ~  Group C:  12.5-14 mph avg

12-13-2016 Fools Gold News From Mountain Goat Adventures: The 2017 Fools Gold 60 Mile Mountain Bike Race is scheduled for Sept 16, 2017. We have decided to only offer a 60 mile course since 75% of past race participants have chosen the shorter distance and we have been seeing fewer and fewer takers on the long course. Rest assured that if you rode the 90 or 100 mile before, the 60 is still hard…just ask someone who rode it last year. The Fool’s Gold race is a stand-alone event for 2017 and is not part of the NUE Series due to some exciting title sponsor news that we will announce soon. These changes, in my opinion, will only help us improve the race and focus all of our resources on the 60 mile course which will allow us to keep making it better. I hope you all will join us at the beautiful Anderson Creek Retreat for 2017!

WBL #3  THE LEN SLOTE MEMORIAL DANIELSVILLE DOO-WHOP DROP,  A ride in honor of our fallen compatriot, Leonard Slote, When: 17 December / Saturday, Time: 10 a.m (Window Open), Where: The Hub (5 Points): (http://hubbikes.com/, Length: 77 miles/4 hours, Pee break: Mile 21, tore Stop: Danielsville (Mile 42), Points: 4 (1 per hour), Attack Zone: Not yet, Interactive map  Trish’s Notes: THE WBL is the real deal! If you can’t average 21-22+ mph for 4 hours, this ride is not for you! World Tour Riders have been known to show up (I’m looking at you Joey Rosskopf and John Murphy!) as well as national level pros and all of the regional fast guys and gals. They are serious about riding 2 abreast, taking your pull, maintaining a steady pace, and not riding like an idiot (and obeying traffic laws). Can’t hang? You will be dropped! This is NOT a ride for recreational riders!! You have been warned. Even if you can hang, it is in your best interest to have the map loaded on your Garmin!

Biking Bleckley Metric The Biking Bleckley Metric 100 is an annual family-oriented easy/moderate bicycle ride through the Southern Country Roads of Bleckley and surrounding counties. The Metric 100 is a big loop, with other routes branching off and returning to the start. The Ride begins at 8:30am at Third and Dykes Streets with check-in beginning at 7:30am, behind the Chamber of Commerce and Cochran Police Department. 7:30 a.m. Check in, Ride begins at 8:30 a.m. Choose from (4) routes: 15 Mile ~ 30 Mile ~ 50 Mile ~ 62.5 Mile Metric Ride

12-9-2016 AHG Picks Up Garrison Atlanta Ian Garrison (formerly NCGA-Mission Source) will join professional development team Aexon Hagens Berman for 2017. AHG is managed by Axel Merckx. Congratulations, Ian!


Because sometimes podiums happen more than once/season. I got 4th in the Women’s CX1/2/3 at Old Grey Barn CX and 2nd in the Women’s CX3/4.

2017 Calendars I am updating the 2017 Calendar(s) as I get information. I expect to have GBRA/Georgia Road Races in early January. John Patterson, USAC’s GA Chief Official, was waiting for a few last minute changes. TBRA had their yearly meeting within the last 2 weeks. They tend to get the calendar out first. I have absolutely no clue when the Carolinas Cycling Association will have their road calendar out. Alabama I tend to update as I see races. They typically don’t release a full calendar early in the year. There are quite a few mtb series, gravel events, and off road races updated. Cross–let’s wait til Summer 2017 for that. Many series are just wrapping up for this year.

12-6-2016 WBL # 2 *WBL # 2: THE TEAM MISSION SOURCE JUNIORS MARCH ON MAYSVILLE / http://www.missionsourcejuniors.com/), When: 10 December / Saturday, Time: 10 a.m (Window Open), Where: The Hub (5 Points): (http://hubbikes.com/), Length: 77 miles / 4 hours, Exit Route: Milledge > Prince > Access Road, Pee break: Mile 17, Store Stop: Maysville (Mile 38), Points: 4 ( 1 per hour), Attack Zone: Not yet, Interactive map: (https://ridewithgps.com/routes/17185655) *Parking: Please do not park in the Hub parking lot. Park on a side street or ride down. (More info coming.)

Cochran Mill Work Party From SORBA Atlanta Cochran Mill Work Party – This Saturday 9 am-noon,  Cochran Mill Park, 6875 Cochran Mill Rd, Palmetto, Georgia 30268 Come out this Saturday to give back to the trails you love to ride at Cochran Mill Park. This Saturday will be Ride in/Ride out. We will be working on the Yellow Trail widening the bench on the hand built section on the top loop above Henry Mill Falls. Please wear long pants, closed toed shoes, bring a helmet, gloves, water and snacks and an epi pen if you are allergic to bees. Remember if you volunteer 10 hours in the Park you get a free yearly parking pass to the Park.

12-3-2016 Holowesko-Citadel 2017 Roster Several southeastern riders will race for Holowesko-Citadel in 2017. Oscar Clark (Atlanta, GA) will return to the team. John Murphy (Asheville, NC) and Ty Magner (Athens, GA) join the team.

12-2-2016 Atlanta WBL Atlanta WBL This Series is designed to create a vehicle (pun intended) where cyclists can ride all winter in a very controlled environment.  NO surprises.  NO hammerhead surges, sprints, so there’s NO surprises.  If this will be your first time with us, please familiarize yourself with the Ride Rules, as these are what has made us incredibly successful AND cyclists know exactly what to expect…on every ride in every group. DATE:  Saturday, Dec 3rd, 2016 START TIME:  9:30AM (Ride Mtg 9:15am) PLACE:  300 Peters St, Atlanta, GA 30317 (U-Haul location)  RIDE TIME:  1-hr 40-min
OVERALL AVERAGE FOR RIDE #2: This Series is based on ride time, not distance.  The overall average is controlled by our Ride Leaders.  For Ride #1, the averages will be: A group:  15.5 mph avg, B group:  13.5 mph avg, C group:  10.5 mph avg~  Group A:  19 mph avg and higher,  Group B1:  17-18 mph avg, Group B2: 15-16 mph avg, Group C:  12.5-14 mph avg,  These are “NOT” the actual speeds we will be riding for the first few rides; these are to determine which group you need to ride in.  Like the ride time, ride averages will slowly increase over the Series, ending with the averages above.

11-30-2016 Allatoona Creek Work Party From SORBA West Georgia: There will be a trail work party at Allatoona Creek Park on  Saturday, December 17 at 9 AM – 1 Although the park is mostly closed there is a lot to work on! New down hill trails, and trail maintenance will be our focus.

11-29-2016 StuffedCross A photo of me (a rarity that I post one! And yes, that is a smaller me this CX season! 20 pounds gone!):


Trish racing at StuffedCross on Sunday in Chattanooga, TN. I got 2nd in the WCX3/4 race. Photo by Ali Whittier.

Up the Creek 2017 Press Release: Harbin Clinic and TRED present the 27th Annual Up the Creek Without a Pedal Bike Ride, one of Northwest Georgia’s favorite cycling events. on Saturday, April 29, 2017. New this year, a family trail ride along Rome’s scenic Heritage Trails sponsored by Harbin Clinic and back by popular demand, the ride start and finish will be at the Forum in Downtown Rome.  Online registration will open Thursday, December 15 with early bird pricing. Ride distances: Trail Ride (any distance you like) 32, 53, 71, 104, 109 miles.

Tour of the Southern Highlands Press Release:  Woodstock, Georgia (November 28, 2016) – Tour of the Southern Highlands Stage Race, the only Pro/Am stage race in the Southeast since the Tour de Georgia, announces new host cities for 2017!

Over the past five years, former professional cyclist, Nathan O’Neill and his partner, Betty Hodges, have grown the Tour of the Southern Highlands into a major stage race on the cycling calendar for the Southeast. The multi-day, Pro/Am race outgrew its previous 5-year location in 2016, and as the last wheel crossed the finish line in March 2016 the search was on. It took nearly 7 months to locate the ideal partnerships and locations to move forward and continue to grow. Woodstock & Ball Ground, GA expressed an interest in the partnership, capitalizing on existing road rider terrain, as well as the potential for event growth and regional economic impact for years to come. “We have an active built-in cycling community in Woodstock and surrounding areas, and bringing a National cycling race to our community is a natural fit for locals and visitors,” stated Jeff Moon, Woodstock City Manager. “The City of Ball Ground is known for superior road cycling by many advocates and we look forward to being part of this exciting event in 2017 along with Woodstock and Cherokee County,” added Eric Wilmarth, Ball Ground City Manager.

The event begins on Friday, March 3, 2017 with an exciting Professional Criterium for both Men & Women, in downtown Woodstock. Frequently described as “NASCAR on bicycles,” the criterium will feature vendors, live music, kid’s bicycle races, a fat tire criterium and more!   Saturday, March 4, 2017, the amateurs join the action alongside the pros for a Merckx Time Trial and a Circuit Race. Then, an epic road race, with over 1600 feet of climbing for each 16 mile lap, around the Ball Ground Community concludes the racing on Sunday, March 5. The three-day event is already attracting attention from many top race teams and has been circled on the U.S. Junior National Team calendar as a “Selection Race”. “We are excited to have new partners in Woodstock & Ball Ground, to continue to build a legendary stage race in Georgia, offering challenging courses and amazing fields, while continuing our tradition of promoting growth in racing, especially junior’s and women’s racing. These two cities are active and progressive cities, and they absolutely exhibit the qualities we know are important to the growth and accessibility of cycling,” said race director, Nathan

11-28-2016 Winter Bike League Southeastern Cycling is once again proud to sponsor a Sprint at the Winter Bike League-_where the Big Boys and Girls to for winter training*! Rides start this Saturday, Dec. 3!! (*Not Me! CX isn’t over for another month….)

WINTER BIKE LEAGUE
*THE 2016-17 WBL HOME OPENER: THE HUB BIKES GOOD HOPE GAMBOL*
When: 3 December / Saturday, Time: 10 a.m (Window Open) , Where: The Hub-Athens, GA (5 Points), Length: 80 miles / 4 hours, Exit Route: South Milledge > Whitehall / Simonton Bridge, Pee break: Mile 22, Store Stop: Good Hope (Mile 44), Points: 4 ( 1 per hour), Attack Zone: Not yet
Interactive map  Parking: Please do not park in the Hub parking lot. Park on a side street or ride down. (More info coming.)

11-25-2016 The 2017 Race Calendar is updated as of 11-24-2016. I’ll keep checking and updating as things come in, I don’t anticipate having many more updates until the major road calendars (NC/SC, GA, AL, TN) start coming out in late Jan. 2017. 2017 races are either marked with an asterisk (*) or the heading says “2017.”