Lets talk Crit champs first.
Riders: Max, Donovan, Lizzy, Nathan, Tulio, Logan, and Alex S.
Racing starts like crazy early at 7am for Tulio, Logan and Lizzy and at 7:30 for Donovan, Max, and Nathan.
So we should be there at the race with like an hour plus maybe like 1 hr 15min. 15 to sign in and 1 hr to warm and get to know the course. The racing is fast 25min for the 13-14's and 30 min for the 15 and ups. So a good warm up is going to be very important. I am going to be there bright and early with the tent set up and trainers ready. I think it would be fun if we could all meet up and hang under the same tent and warm up together, so try and find me if you can.
To make this all work Kathleen and I have discussed bringing some kids up to Phoenix on Saturday afternoon. As we have discussed so far will be Logan, Lizzy, Donovan and Nathan. I am also going to be driving up at that time, however my mother is in Phoenix and I will be spending time with her.
I am sure there will be more question, but I hope that this gets the ball rolling. Oh the kids will be staying at a friends of Katleen's house in Phoenix, and I think should be prepared to camp.
GABA Salt River Canyon Ride
I think the only two left that want or can do this ride are Kramer and Marcos. I really would like to see the two of you do this ride. I think you will love however I need to hear from you that you want to so i can help make arrangements.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Monday, April 26, 2010
The Whiskey Off Road (edited)
Thank you to everybody for a fantastic weekend. I absolutely had a great time and really enjoyed everyone’s company on the trip. I especially want to thank both Nippy and Mark for all their hard work and dedication to the team. Without them this trip would not have happened and I am extremely thankful for all their help. Please everybody if you see the two of them some time soon, thank them, please.
Friday: The only part of trips that I do not like is the driving part. However now that I have automatic windows and AC, things have become marginally better, because I still have to drive. I drove with Daniela, Damiano, the 61 Coleman camper, and Alex S. It took us about 6 hours with plenty of stops that included the grocery store.
Nippy drove early in the day with Marcos and well Mark had the rest.
We all arrived at about the same time between 6 and 7:30pm. Very fortunately Nickel, or Mr. Danger, had already arrived in town and had found us a perfect camp spot. A free one just 4 miles south of town in the Prescott National Forest. We had the place to ourselves, with a running stream in the background, a fire pit already made, and ample flat room for everyone’s tent. Thanks Mr. Danger.
Dinner was bean burritos and I will remember to bring the hot sauce next time.
Saturday: Race Day
Alex, Nickle and myself were the only ones to do the 50 proof ride which meant that we had to be out of camp by 6:45 am as the race started at 7:30am. It was super cold at the start right in the middle of downtown. It was a very cool starting position. Right in the middle of the old downtown, which is set up just like an Old Italian town. With the center square ringed by shops and the like. The start was marked by some “cowboys” who shot “guns” and we were off down the pavement to the dirt about 4 miles away. Alex, Nickel and I were all on top of each other at this point but once the dirt hit so did the pain. Alex instantly was gone while Nickel had me in his sights for quite a bit of time. The hardest part of the race for me was the altitude. I had a real hard time in the beginning of the race controlling my heart rate. In fact after about 45 minutes of my heart through the roof I actually stopped at a very random place just to let myself recover. Once I had the rest of the race went great, just that first recovery was really tough. The first 5 miles of dirt were the hardest of the day, and not knowing that in the moment made for some real mentally head games. Like am I ever going to survive this? In the first 10 miles I was walking way more than I ever want to on an MTB ride, the problem, 2 foot up hill ledges that were created by logs, over and over and over. Man they were hard. However after that the fun of all time came. Maybe the most fun section of trail I have ever ridden, rolling down hill with burms to ride and jumps just fun enough to not scare me, and scenery for post cards. At the bottom of that section we turned around at about 12 miles and started back up the hill, A really crummy forest service road that was super fun to MTB with tones of water crossings. Really through out the ride we probably rode through 30 different little creeks. At the top of this climb was the fork for the 25 mile riders, which meant that I had a very long steep 12 miles to go down hill on a dirt forest service road. On the way down I saw Tinker Juarez coming up, kind of cool, Alex Strickland, not so cool, and other friends. Since it was a down and up you were able to see all your competitors and friends either in front of you or behind you. Alex was in front of me, dang it, and Nickel was behind me. I know right, like totally crazy, you read it right, Nickel behind me.
The next 12 miles were granny gear grinding madness. It took me about an hour of easiest gear churning to get to the top of the climb. I was passed by only two people, passed my fair share, and got to suffer with a friend of mine Jesse who was riding a hand built custom Rossin single speed 29er. So hard, but so great, was this climb, epic for sure. At the bottom of the hot valley you could see the cut out of the trees on the mountain way above where you were headed. The climb started at hot t- shirt weather and ended in pine trees with snow left over. Once this amazing climb was over there was just 8 miles of almost all down hill single track left. It would have been more fun had I not been so exhausted. It was hard to focus on the trail at that point and my body was just plain fatigued. I cramped like crazy on those miles every time I had to peddle but I never got off the bike for fear of not being able to get back on. So I just kept on peddling even though the body really just wanted to say stop. The ride ends on the same pavement that took you to the dirt so when I hit the pavement I just about wanted to scream. Man was I happy. Knowing the pain was just about over gave me all the energy I needed to get to town and to stay away from Nickel.
Final placing in the 50 mile open event:
Alex: 74th place 4:25.33
Ignacio:91st place 4:33.38
Nickel: 117th place 4:58.37
I am going to ask one of the kids to write up a story about this but here is what I can tell you.
Pablo won it. Well in regards to all his friends that is. And man was it fun to watch him cross the line like he just won the world championship of the world. Arms up mouth wide open, he was pumped. He was in the thick of it on the trail with Logan and Marcos for most of the ride and broke away at the end and held on. However when he crossed the finish line he got off the bike only to yell like crazy he was cramping so bad I think he woke some people up. He finished 3rd over all in the Junior field.
Logan was second in the team game and says he only lost to Pablo, because he too was cramping like crazy and it was only when off the bike the last time to dispel the cramps that Pablo passed him. He also lost time in a few places because Marcos was having trouble staying on the bike.
Marcos was next and when asked how many times he went over the bars during the ride he was unable to answer better than, a lot and probably more than 5. Logan in fact got to see many of them, 2 that were within 30 feet of each other.
Kramer followed and ended up in this position because he broke his chain while trying to hunt down second place. He had Owen Graves in his sights for a good portion of the ride until his chain broke. It took him 30 minutes to get it together and thus his finishing position.
Nathan the birthday boy finished with only, “That was crazy” to say. He just kept saying it with the biggest smile he could provide. Thanks Nathan!!!!
Donovan and Connor finished up the boys of the team. They came in hand in hand looking good.
I really want to tell everyone though of how awesome of a brother Donovan is. At the start of the dirt he realized this was going to be an extremely hard day for Lizzy and he decided to wait for her. He gave up his race to ensure that his sister would be ok. This is what El Grupo is to me more than anything. Young kids learning how to be caring and respectful adults. I appreciate and respect that act immensely and will not soon forget. Thanks Donovan for being an awesome brother. However Lizzy in turn said no go ahead. So Donovan chased his friends like crazy until he caught Connor and from the fork in the road they road in together.
Lizzy on her end won her division. And upon her arrival had 3 older women come up to her and basically tell her she was the toughest thing they had ever seen. The fact that she could finish that ride says a lot and even more telling is the fact that when she finished she said, “Next year I can go way faster.” I love coaching this girl.
Not a bad day in the saddle for all.
After the race we hung out in downtown on the lawn and watched the bands into the night. We ate pizza in the park and laughed at the music. Once the sun fell we went back to camp and ate cookies and watched the fire. Just a perfect ending.
Sunday:
We awoke to a slow morning of breakfast burritos and got ready for our hike. We went to Lnyx Lake for a walk and met up with an old teacher from City High. Daniela ran around the lake and after catching up with us she led the kids on sprints along the trail. They apparently were not tired yet.
I had just a great weekend and all the riders were super fun to be with. This was an “easy” trip.
THANKS EVERYONE FOR A GREAT TRIP!!!!!
Oh and Nippy whenever you can get me some photos would be great.
Friday: The only part of trips that I do not like is the driving part. However now that I have automatic windows and AC, things have become marginally better, because I still have to drive. I drove with Daniela, Damiano, the 61 Coleman camper, and Alex S. It took us about 6 hours with plenty of stops that included the grocery store.
Nippy drove early in the day with Marcos and well Mark had the rest.
We all arrived at about the same time between 6 and 7:30pm. Very fortunately Nickel, or Mr. Danger, had already arrived in town and had found us a perfect camp spot. A free one just 4 miles south of town in the Prescott National Forest. We had the place to ourselves, with a running stream in the background, a fire pit already made, and ample flat room for everyone’s tent. Thanks Mr. Danger.
Dinner was bean burritos and I will remember to bring the hot sauce next time.
Saturday: Race Day
Alex, Nickle and myself were the only ones to do the 50 proof ride which meant that we had to be out of camp by 6:45 am as the race started at 7:30am. It was super cold at the start right in the middle of downtown. It was a very cool starting position. Right in the middle of the old downtown, which is set up just like an Old Italian town. With the center square ringed by shops and the like. The start was marked by some “cowboys” who shot “guns” and we were off down the pavement to the dirt about 4 miles away. Alex, Nickel and I were all on top of each other at this point but once the dirt hit so did the pain. Alex instantly was gone while Nickel had me in his sights for quite a bit of time. The hardest part of the race for me was the altitude. I had a real hard time in the beginning of the race controlling my heart rate. In fact after about 45 minutes of my heart through the roof I actually stopped at a very random place just to let myself recover. Once I had the rest of the race went great, just that first recovery was really tough. The first 5 miles of dirt were the hardest of the day, and not knowing that in the moment made for some real mentally head games. Like am I ever going to survive this? In the first 10 miles I was walking way more than I ever want to on an MTB ride, the problem, 2 foot up hill ledges that were created by logs, over and over and over. Man they were hard. However after that the fun of all time came. Maybe the most fun section of trail I have ever ridden, rolling down hill with burms to ride and jumps just fun enough to not scare me, and scenery for post cards. At the bottom of that section we turned around at about 12 miles and started back up the hill, A really crummy forest service road that was super fun to MTB with tones of water crossings. Really through out the ride we probably rode through 30 different little creeks. At the top of this climb was the fork for the 25 mile riders, which meant that I had a very long steep 12 miles to go down hill on a dirt forest service road. On the way down I saw Tinker Juarez coming up, kind of cool, Alex Strickland, not so cool, and other friends. Since it was a down and up you were able to see all your competitors and friends either in front of you or behind you. Alex was in front of me, dang it, and Nickel was behind me. I know right, like totally crazy, you read it right, Nickel behind me.
The next 12 miles were granny gear grinding madness. It took me about an hour of easiest gear churning to get to the top of the climb. I was passed by only two people, passed my fair share, and got to suffer with a friend of mine Jesse who was riding a hand built custom Rossin single speed 29er. So hard, but so great, was this climb, epic for sure. At the bottom of the hot valley you could see the cut out of the trees on the mountain way above where you were headed. The climb started at hot t- shirt weather and ended in pine trees with snow left over. Once this amazing climb was over there was just 8 miles of almost all down hill single track left. It would have been more fun had I not been so exhausted. It was hard to focus on the trail at that point and my body was just plain fatigued. I cramped like crazy on those miles every time I had to peddle but I never got off the bike for fear of not being able to get back on. So I just kept on peddling even though the body really just wanted to say stop. The ride ends on the same pavement that took you to the dirt so when I hit the pavement I just about wanted to scream. Man was I happy. Knowing the pain was just about over gave me all the energy I needed to get to town and to stay away from Nickel.
Final placing in the 50 mile open event:
Alex: 74th place 4:25.33
Ignacio:91st place 4:33.38
Nickel: 117th place 4:58.37
I am going to ask one of the kids to write up a story about this but here is what I can tell you.
Pablo won it. Well in regards to all his friends that is. And man was it fun to watch him cross the line like he just won the world championship of the world. Arms up mouth wide open, he was pumped. He was in the thick of it on the trail with Logan and Marcos for most of the ride and broke away at the end and held on. However when he crossed the finish line he got off the bike only to yell like crazy he was cramping so bad I think he woke some people up. He finished 3rd over all in the Junior field.
Logan was second in the team game and says he only lost to Pablo, because he too was cramping like crazy and it was only when off the bike the last time to dispel the cramps that Pablo passed him. He also lost time in a few places because Marcos was having trouble staying on the bike.
Marcos was next and when asked how many times he went over the bars during the ride he was unable to answer better than, a lot and probably more than 5. Logan in fact got to see many of them, 2 that were within 30 feet of each other.
Kramer followed and ended up in this position because he broke his chain while trying to hunt down second place. He had Owen Graves in his sights for a good portion of the ride until his chain broke. It took him 30 minutes to get it together and thus his finishing position.
Nathan the birthday boy finished with only, “That was crazy” to say. He just kept saying it with the biggest smile he could provide. Thanks Nathan!!!!
Donovan and Connor finished up the boys of the team. They came in hand in hand looking good.
I really want to tell everyone though of how awesome of a brother Donovan is. At the start of the dirt he realized this was going to be an extremely hard day for Lizzy and he decided to wait for her. He gave up his race to ensure that his sister would be ok. This is what El Grupo is to me more than anything. Young kids learning how to be caring and respectful adults. I appreciate and respect that act immensely and will not soon forget. Thanks Donovan for being an awesome brother. However Lizzy in turn said no go ahead. So Donovan chased his friends like crazy until he caught Connor and from the fork in the road they road in together.
Lizzy on her end won her division. And upon her arrival had 3 older women come up to her and basically tell her she was the toughest thing they had ever seen. The fact that she could finish that ride says a lot and even more telling is the fact that when she finished she said, “Next year I can go way faster.” I love coaching this girl.
Not a bad day in the saddle for all.
After the race we hung out in downtown on the lawn and watched the bands into the night. We ate pizza in the park and laughed at the music. Once the sun fell we went back to camp and ate cookies and watched the fire. Just a perfect ending.
Sunday:
We awoke to a slow morning of breakfast burritos and got ready for our hike. We went to Lnyx Lake for a walk and met up with an old teacher from City High. Daniela ran around the lake and after catching up with us she led the kids on sprints along the trail. They apparently were not tired yet.
I had just a great weekend and all the riders were super fun to be with. This was an “easy” trip.
THANKS EVERYONE FOR A GREAT TRIP!!!!!
Oh and Nippy whenever you can get me some photos would be great.
Friday, April 23, 2010
NO Practice Friday
Yeah sorry, we are off to play in the dirt, and so should you. I will do my best to get pics and the like. Also if I beat Alex Strickland he has to ride for the next week in ToTo. You know those ballerina outfits.
I hope if you are not riding the dirt this weekend, that you still get out for a ride.
Ignacio
I hope if you are not riding the dirt this weekend, that you still get out for a ride.
Ignacio
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
MTB'rs Prescott Meeting
Tomorrow after practice 6pm.
I will hand out the gear lists and we can confirm leaving times, rides (drivers and seats) and $.
Sorry for the late notice.
Ignacio
I will hand out the gear lists and we can confirm leaving times, rides (drivers and seats) and $.
Sorry for the late notice.
Ignacio
Monday, April 19, 2010
Prescott MTB Race
All right now that our super crazy, fun weekend is over we have to get back to business.
This Saturday:
Alex Strickland
Connor
kramer
Donovan
Lizzy
Logan
Marcos
Pablo
Ignacio
Nathan
Are all signed up to do the race. Only the coaches are signed up to do the 50 mile, as that is what Todd said.
I would like to leave on Friday afternoon AS SOON AS POSSIBLE AFTER SCHOOL IS OUT. I would very much like to have all of you drop your stuff off at the clubhouse on Thursday before we leave so we can make sure that we have every thing necessary and that way you have a day to go get it.
Mark, Myself and Nippy are scheduled to drive up and with this arrangement we will be able to get everyone in the car. We are going to be camping and it will be a bit chilly, so I am going to prepare a gear list and will expect everyone to adhere to it, as space is going to be tight and we have to be smart about it.
I would then like to come back on Sunday afternoon. So leave friday night get there a bit late. Race on Saturday, and then hike or MTB on Sunday and have a day of it. Getting home around 6pm.
We will be asking you to bring some money however I do not know the amount yet that will not exceed $30. We will be making and providing all the food, unless you want to bring extra cash and get your self something else.
I have no idea how hard the course is but if it is anything like the Show Low event, well GET SOME REST!!
Thanks everyone for a great weekend, and please stay posted.
We will have a group meeting before we leave, most likely Wednesday after practice, I will confirm tomorrow, and we will then have a whole team meeting when we get back, to discuss the Crit Champs and Salt River Canyon.
PS. IF YOU WANT TO DO THE CRIT CHAMPS, PLEASE LET ME KNOW AS REGISTRATION IS OPEN AND I WANT TO GET YOU REGISTERED AND READY.
THANKS
IGNACIO
This Saturday:
Alex Strickland
Connor
kramer
Donovan
Lizzy
Logan
Marcos
Pablo
Ignacio
Nathan
Are all signed up to do the race. Only the coaches are signed up to do the 50 mile, as that is what Todd said.
I would like to leave on Friday afternoon AS SOON AS POSSIBLE AFTER SCHOOL IS OUT. I would very much like to have all of you drop your stuff off at the clubhouse on Thursday before we leave so we can make sure that we have every thing necessary and that way you have a day to go get it.
Mark, Myself and Nippy are scheduled to drive up and with this arrangement we will be able to get everyone in the car. We are going to be camping and it will be a bit chilly, so I am going to prepare a gear list and will expect everyone to adhere to it, as space is going to be tight and we have to be smart about it.
I would then like to come back on Sunday afternoon. So leave friday night get there a bit late. Race on Saturday, and then hike or MTB on Sunday and have a day of it. Getting home around 6pm.
We will be asking you to bring some money however I do not know the amount yet that will not exceed $30. We will be making and providing all the food, unless you want to bring extra cash and get your self something else.
I have no idea how hard the course is but if it is anything like the Show Low event, well GET SOME REST!!
Thanks everyone for a great weekend, and please stay posted.
We will have a group meeting before we leave, most likely Wednesday after practice, I will confirm tomorrow, and we will then have a whole team meeting when we get back, to discuss the Crit Champs and Salt River Canyon.
PS. IF YOU WANT TO DO THE CRIT CHAMPS, PLEASE LET ME KNOW AS REGISTRATION IS OPEN AND I WANT TO GET YOU REGISTERED AND READY.
THANKS
IGNACIO
Friday, April 16, 2010
Schedule for this Weekend
Saturday
6:15am Old Man Shoot Out. I will be there with whomever wants to join.
6:30 Big Boy Shoot Out. I believe that Alex S. and Richard will be out there and hopefully others.
10:30am Approx. I will have made it home and will be making breakfast for those that would like to come by.
Sunday April 18th
5am - 8am
I will be setting up the valet and our booth. Along with
Donovan and maybe others.
8am Bike Valet Starts
Schedule is as follows:
8am- 10am
Donovan and Marcos
10-11am
Logan and lizzy
11am-Noon
Logan and Connor
Noon- 1pm
Logan and Connor
This should cover the Valet area just fine. We must stay until 1pm or until all bikes have been picked up. Matt will be around most of the morning as well to help where needed, oh and maybe Nippy too.
I will be selling jerseys, bikes, and baked goods with the proceeds benefiting the team to be used how we need. Please feel free to bake goods and help sell stuff.
Cyclovia Kids Bike Rodeo
Ashley, Julia and Pablo will be running the rodeo at Catalina Park. The one on 4th av. just north of University. They will be there by 9:30 am setting up. I do not believe that they will need any help however they probably wouldn't mind a hello. They are doing that from 10am- 2pm.
1pm Kids Bike Parade
To enjoy Cyclovia I have said that I will lead a bike parade for kids. So come one and come all and have fun with your bike.
6:15am Old Man Shoot Out. I will be there with whomever wants to join.
6:30 Big Boy Shoot Out. I believe that Alex S. and Richard will be out there and hopefully others.
10:30am Approx. I will have made it home and will be making breakfast for those that would like to come by.
Sunday April 18th
5am - 8am
I will be setting up the valet and our booth. Along with
Donovan and maybe others.
8am Bike Valet Starts
Schedule is as follows:
8am- 10am
Donovan and Marcos
10-11am
Logan and lizzy
11am-Noon
Logan and Connor
Noon- 1pm
Logan and Connor
This should cover the Valet area just fine. We must stay until 1pm or until all bikes have been picked up. Matt will be around most of the morning as well to help where needed, oh and maybe Nippy too.
I will be selling jerseys, bikes, and baked goods with the proceeds benefiting the team to be used how we need. Please feel free to bake goods and help sell stuff.
Cyclovia Kids Bike Rodeo
Ashley, Julia and Pablo will be running the rodeo at Catalina Park. The one on 4th av. just north of University. They will be there by 9:30 am setting up. I do not believe that they will need any help however they probably wouldn't mind a hello. They are doing that from 10am- 2pm.
1pm Kids Bike Parade
To enjoy Cyclovia I have said that I will lead a bike parade for kids. So come one and come all and have fun with your bike.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Crazy Weekend!!!! + Up Coming Events
Saturday April 17th—Shoot Out Old Man Style with some new guest appearances by Marcos, Nathan and Donovan. The ride starts at 6:15am and waits for nobody, so please be on time to my house. Also for all riders on the Shoot Out Old Man or Big Boy, I will be making breakfast for all at my house after the ride so, assuming that you might be hungry, I will make some food.
Sunday April 18th
5am- 8am Swap Meet Set Up
I will be setting up our area at the Bike Swap. I will again be in front of that little fenced in park next to BisonWitches, where we do the bike valet.
8am – 1pm Bike Valet
YES we are doing the bike valet again and so we will need help with this. All bike valet hours count towards GABA trips, so there is incentive. Please post what your available times are. Also I will need help at our booth selling stuff and promoting the team.
10-2pm CYCLOVIA
That’s right the great event that Daniela has been putting together for the city is on the same day. El Grupo has been asked to put on a Bike Rodeo at the park on 4th Ave. I am hoping that folks like Pablo, Julia, Kramer, Ricardo and Ashley all of whom are Bike Ambassadors can do the brunt of running this, because they can get paid. I am going to try and arrange a meeting between you all and me so we can figure that out. Wednesday night after practice at my house is one suggestion (Julia and Ashley will already be there)...does that work for others?
1pm CYCLOVIA
I am going to be leading a Kids Bicycle Parade at this time along the Cyclovia route and would like to have as many of you join me as possible. If you can that would be great. We will need to close down the bike valet at 1pm and have at least one person stay until every bike has been picked up.
April 24th Saturday
Whiskey Off Road MTB Race
Put on by Epic rides, the folks that do the 24 hour race. We will need to leave on Friday the 23rd after school and I would like to come home on Sunday. Of course there are some logistics that we have to figure out, but lets get through this weekend and go from there.
If you think that you would like to do this event then I need your waiver forms no later than Friday.
The link is here:http://epicrides.com/pdf/wor/2010_Whiskey_REGISTRATION.PDF
So please get it to me so I can get us paid and registered. I would recommend turning one in even if you are not sure if you are going to go or not. That way you have an option.
thanks
Ignacio
Sunday April 18th
5am- 8am Swap Meet Set Up
I will be setting up our area at the Bike Swap. I will again be in front of that little fenced in park next to BisonWitches, where we do the bike valet.
8am – 1pm Bike Valet
YES we are doing the bike valet again and so we will need help with this. All bike valet hours count towards GABA trips, so there is incentive. Please post what your available times are. Also I will need help at our booth selling stuff and promoting the team.
10-2pm CYCLOVIA
That’s right the great event that Daniela has been putting together for the city is on the same day. El Grupo has been asked to put on a Bike Rodeo at the park on 4th Ave. I am hoping that folks like Pablo, Julia, Kramer, Ricardo and Ashley all of whom are Bike Ambassadors can do the brunt of running this, because they can get paid. I am going to try and arrange a meeting between you all and me so we can figure that out. Wednesday night after practice at my house is one suggestion (Julia and Ashley will already be there)...does that work for others?
1pm CYCLOVIA
I am going to be leading a Kids Bicycle Parade at this time along the Cyclovia route and would like to have as many of you join me as possible. If you can that would be great. We will need to close down the bike valet at 1pm and have at least one person stay until every bike has been picked up.
April 24th Saturday
Whiskey Off Road MTB Race
Put on by Epic rides, the folks that do the 24 hour race. We will need to leave on Friday the 23rd after school and I would like to come home on Sunday. Of course there are some logistics that we have to figure out, but lets get through this weekend and go from there.
If you think that you would like to do this event then I need your waiver forms no later than Friday.
The link is here:http://epicrides.com/pdf/wor/2010_Whiskey_REGISTRATION.PDF
So please get it to me so I can get us paid and registered. I would recommend turning one in even if you are not sure if you are going to go or not. That way you have an option.
thanks
Ignacio
Colossal Cave Pics Posted!!!!
Logan doin' the El Grupo flyer...this is what an aero helmet can do for you!
Colossal Cave photo album click here!
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Friday, April 9, 2010
NO Practice Friday
That's right just get some rest for the weekend and pick up your numbers if you can.
Have a great time on Saturday and race hard!!
Ignacio
Have a great time on Saturday and race hard!!
Ignacio
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Colossal Cave Stage Race
Warning: This event is going to be a logistical nightmare!!
Why? Because there are 3 stages in 2 days and I will not be able to make it to either on Saturday.
Racing starts at 7am for the TT. Most riders should be there at least by 6:30am to sign in and warm up well.
The Crit for juniors, also on Saturday, starts at 3:50pm so riders should be there to sign in and warm up by 3pm at the latest.
On Sunday, juniors start the road race at 6:45am along with Cat 5, and Cat 4 goes off at 9:45am out at Colossal Cave. All of this information can be found at azcycling.com
I will be going on Sunday and can drive 4 riders and 4 bikes. I will be meeting those who need a ride at the clubhouse ready to leave at 5:15am (ouch!) I completely recognize that these times are ludicrous but it is what it is.
So, I absolutely need to hear from everyone who will be racing this weekend to know if you/your parent can drive, when, how many people they can take, if you will need a ride, if you will meet us all out there, what your situation is, etc. We need a lot of help with transportation for this event, but recognize that not everyone is able to or may go straight there based on where they live. Whatever help we can get would be awesome.
Please respond folks so we can figure this mess out!! Thanks! Ignacio
Why? Because there are 3 stages in 2 days and I will not be able to make it to either on Saturday.
Racing starts at 7am for the TT. Most riders should be there at least by 6:30am to sign in and warm up well.
The Crit for juniors, also on Saturday, starts at 3:50pm so riders should be there to sign in and warm up by 3pm at the latest.
On Sunday, juniors start the road race at 6:45am along with Cat 5, and Cat 4 goes off at 9:45am out at Colossal Cave. All of this information can be found at azcycling.com
I will be going on Sunday and can drive 4 riders and 4 bikes. I will be meeting those who need a ride at the clubhouse ready to leave at 5:15am (ouch!) I completely recognize that these times are ludicrous but it is what it is.
So, I absolutely need to hear from everyone who will be racing this weekend to know if you/your parent can drive, when, how many people they can take, if you will need a ride, if you will meet us all out there, what your situation is, etc. We need a lot of help with transportation for this event, but recognize that not everyone is able to or may go straight there based on where they live. Whatever help we can get would be awesome.
Please respond folks so we can figure this mess out!! Thanks! Ignacio
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
The Arizona Trail Race
Mexico To Utah
Longest singletrack bike race in the world
Mandatory 21 mile portage across the Grand Canyon
More here.
Monday, April 5, 2010
SXSW
I went to Austin this spring break to visit some friends and check out South by Southwest. I saw a bunch of cool things and figured I'd share a little somethin' somethin' with you guys.
I saw this book in the Austin library and thought it was hilarious.
Sweet boots, man! All the hipsters who flocked to Austin for SXSW were loving this place.
This is Torchy's. More on them in a moment.
It's one little trailer in a row of 3 trailers. They have a big table area in the "trailer park eatery" and it makes for some fun dining. Unlike here in Tucson where we have breakfast burritos that weigh the size of a newborn, Austin does a less filling, more gut-friendly breakfast taco. They're pretty dang good, but I don't think I'd give up my burros.
After checking out day 1 of South by Southwest, we decided to check out Lance Armstrong's shop, Mellow Johnny's. Oh man, was there ever some cool stuff in here. Bike nerdery abounds after this sentence.
Here's Lance's Caloi branded Litespeed from when he was riding for Motorola. He won the 1993 world's on it. Sweet!
One of Lance's Tour bikes. Stars and stripes forever!
One of super-domestique George Hincapie's TT bikes.
4 of Lance's Tour jersey's. No big deal.
Downstairs leads to the training dungeon.
It also leads to a bunch of sweet custom Madones. You can see the handy work of Shepard Fairey (of Obey fame) behind the white TT Madone.
Also in the dungeon was the new frame for Team Radio Shack. Man, I'm glad they let everyone know that the frame is a Trek. You could have never guessed.
This is by far the coolest bike in the shop. It won the 2007 NAHBS (North American Handmade Bike Show). Look at the top tube and seat tube! Look at the Lugs! Look at the stem/handlebar combo! Look at the dropouts! Look at the wooden rims! Look, look, look! It only set Lance back $15,000, too.
This is Torchy's. More on them in a moment.
It's one little trailer in a row of 3 trailers. They have a big table area in the "trailer park eatery" and it makes for some fun dining. Unlike here in Tucson where we have breakfast burritos that weigh the size of a newborn, Austin does a less filling, more gut-friendly breakfast taco. They're pretty dang good, but I don't think I'd give up my burros.
After checking out day 1 of South by Southwest, we decided to check out Lance Armstrong's shop, Mellow Johnny's. Oh man, was there ever some cool stuff in here. Bike nerdery abounds after this sentence.
Here's Lance's Caloi branded Litespeed from when he was riding for Motorola. He won the 1993 world's on it. Sweet!
One of Lance's Tour bikes. Stars and stripes forever!
One of super-domestique George Hincapie's TT bikes.
4 of Lance's Tour jersey's. No big deal.
Downstairs leads to the training dungeon.
It also leads to a bunch of sweet custom Madones. You can see the handy work of Shepard Fairey (of Obey fame) behind the white TT Madone.
Also in the dungeon was the new frame for Team Radio Shack. Man, I'm glad they let everyone know that the frame is a Trek. You could have never guessed.
This is by far the coolest bike in the shop. It won the 2007 NAHBS (North American Handmade Bike Show). Look at the top tube and seat tube! Look at the Lugs! Look at the stem/handlebar combo! Look at the dropouts! Look at the wooden rims! Look, look, look! It only set Lance back $15,000, too.
So that was a little bit of my Austin trip. Hope you guys liked the pics!
GABA Meeting
I will be at the clubhouse today at 6pm. I will be leaving sharp at 6:15pm if you would like a ride. I hope to see many of you there.
ignacio
Friday, April 2, 2010
GABA Meeting
This coming Monday the 5th of April. El Grupo will be presenting at the monthly GABA meeting. GABA is a local bike club that has supported us now for many years. Every year they then ask us to come and present to the club about what we have done over the past year.
I would really like for as many of us to go as possible. It shows our appreciation and gratitude of their support. They have also financially helped us in a big way for many years. So please every one who can make time please do so to come.
GABA is the group that goes on all those fun bike tours that we have had the privilege to go on. Like the Blue Loop and Luna Lake coming up. We are able to go on these because they allow us to do work trade. Which means we help them in exchange for being able to join them. The way Larry has worked it for us is for every one day we want to go on we have to do 2 hours of WT.
So to this end Larry is giving us a huge chance at this next meeting. He has said that for every youth who presents a 2 minute presentation about what it means to them to be a part of El Grupo that he will give the team 2 hours of WT. That's right 2 minutes will equal 2 hours. Yet another reason that it would be great to see a few of you there. Of course school and family is first.
Many of you have been to these meetings before and know how low key they are. Heck remember the ice cream social.
Monday, April 05 2010, 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Location : Pima County Medical Building 5199 E Farness Rd
I would really like for as many of us to go as possible. It shows our appreciation and gratitude of their support. They have also financially helped us in a big way for many years. So please every one who can make time please do so to come.
GABA is the group that goes on all those fun bike tours that we have had the privilege to go on. Like the Blue Loop and Luna Lake coming up. We are able to go on these because they allow us to do work trade. Which means we help them in exchange for being able to join them. The way Larry has worked it for us is for every one day we want to go on we have to do 2 hours of WT.
So to this end Larry is giving us a huge chance at this next meeting. He has said that for every youth who presents a 2 minute presentation about what it means to them to be a part of El Grupo that he will give the team 2 hours of WT. That's right 2 minutes will equal 2 hours. Yet another reason that it would be great to see a few of you there. Of course school and family is first.
Many of you have been to these meetings before and know how low key they are. Heck remember the ice cream social.
Monday, April 05 2010, 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Location : Pima County Medical Building 5199 E Farness Rd
Thursday, April 1, 2010
The puker!
Heidi Swift is a cyclist and journalist for the Oregonian. She rode with El Grupo a few weeks ago. Her article is here. Thanks to Michael for the link.
BikeSnob strikes again!
"When you pay $6,000 for bicycle wheels, you get the same thing you get when you pay $600, or even when you pay $150, which is a couple of round things that roll and atop which you will still suck at bike racing if you already sucked at bike racing."
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