News

The 2008 Redlands Bicycle Classic Seeks Volunteers
2/29/08 - As a volunteer for the 2008 Redlands Bicycle Classic you are more than just an important part of the integral workings of the race, you are a part of history. As the Redlands Classic approaches its 25th year of racing action you can be sure that contributing to this heritage is something special. The scenario described above is exactly what Race Marshals and Assistant Judges experience at the races. We want you to be a part of this history. Volunteer Positions Are Available In The Following Areas: Race Marshalling, Assistant Judging, Merchandising, Registration, Neutral Support, and Host Housing. Volunteers are absolutely invaluable to the race, and the race couldn't run without the benevolent community members that have given their time in exchange for a pedal fueled adrenaline rush. Visit redlandsclassic.com and click on the Volunteer link to see what positions are available. There is a position that fits anytime frame or commitment level, anyone can help and every position is vital to the race. We are looking forward to your help and sharing the experience and thrill of bicycle racing with you first hand.


The peloton heads up the hill at the Rose Bowl.
photo © Mark Johnson/Ironstring.com

Valley of the Sun, a Time Trialist's Race
By: Jennifer Weaver
2/28/08 - Phoenix, Arizona brags about its warm and sunny winters. On February 15, 2008 which was the first and deciding stage of Valley of the Sun John Earley Memorial Stage Race, the racers rolled through the 22 kilometer time trial through cold, windy rain. Ben Kneller of Jittery Joes won the time trial in a 29.27, only five seconds in front of the second and third place finishers, Sam Johnson and Karl Bordine, who tied at 29. 32. Kneller went into the road race knowing the good riders he was racing against. “We’ll see how the next few days play out here. There’s a lot of strong guys. It’s up in the air right now,” Kneller said. Kneller beat Bordine who is the Elite Men’s National Time Trial Champion. more >


Rock Racing's Mario Cipollini scored his third top 10 finish
of the race with 10th place on the final stage. photo © VeroImage.com

Update to the Baker to Death Valley Road Race
2/27/08 - Saturday, March 1st is the second annual Baker to Death Valley Road Race.  The weather is expected to be phenomenal for the race with temperatures in the low 80’s.  Expectations for glory are high as riders from the three categories will be battling for victory.  Space is still available with plenty of spots available in the P1/2/3 and in the Category 5’s.  If you are a Category 4 racer and are interested in racing, the category is almost closed!  There are only one or two spots available for Cat 4 racers.  Online registration closes at Midnight on Wednesday, February 27th.  Pre-register and save yourself time at registration before the race.  If you pre-registered or wish to sign-up, registration and number pickup will be available Friday night from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm at race HQ located at Motel Will’s Fargo.  Registration on Saturday morning opens up at 6:00 am at the start line (located at Highway 127 and Baker Road).  Note: If a category is at the field limit size, no new registrations will be allowed.

Rock Racing To Launch Aggressive Internal Anti-Doping Program
2/27/08 - Continuing its commitment to the sport of cycling and clean competition, Rock Racing today announced plans for an aggressive internal team anti-doping program. This internal anti-doping initiative underscores Rock Racing's, and Team Owner Michael Ball's, willingness to take every measure to ensure that its members race clean and fair. Rock Racing has not yet selected a consultant for its internal anti-doping program, but is proud to announce that it will make its formal selection within three days.  The selection process will involve discussions with leading internal anti-doping consultants. The program will include testing for performance enhancing substances known to be used in the sport of professional cycling, including EPO, blood doping and steroids. Although Rock Racing is not disclosing the exact dollar figure of the program’s cost, it is a significant investment and one Ball says is necessary. “The responsibility to change this sport for the better has to come from within – from the riders and team owners,” Ball said. “For Rock Racing, the investment in such a comprehensive anti-doping program is really an investment in the future of the sport and we hope our example will encourage more teams to adopt similar programs.  The selection process will be led by Maurice Suh of Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP, with assistance from the team and its management."

Taking Orders on SoCalCycling.com Clothing Now
We have a new look for '08 and it's so hot, someone pulled up along side of me in their car while I was riding and said "The new kits look awesome!" Thanks for the compliment! We like the new look too! We are taking preorders on jerseys and shorts through March 4th. We also have some new socks by Sock Guy to go with the clothing that will be in stock next week.
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Join our club and get additional clothing items >

Rock Racing Registers Solid Performances At Tour of California
2/26/08 - Michael Creed’s extraordinary ride Sunday capped an impressive performance for Rock Racing at the Amgen Tour of California. Attacking from the start of the 93-mile (150 km) stage, Creed played an instrumental role in a pair of breakaways that stayed clear of the peloton on a rain-soaked, bone-chilling ride from Santa Clarita to Pasadena. Aggressive to the end, Rock Racing nearly scored its second podium finish of the race when Creed attacked inside the final mile and finished fourth in a five-up sprint in front of the Rose Bowl. “It was the last day and I didn’t want to end the week without having done anything,” Creed said. “At the very end, it was like throwing a ‘Hail Mary’ to try and pull out the win.” In all, Rock Racing scored seven top 10 finishes during the race, including Mario Cipollini’s third place finish in Sacramento on Stage 2. Even more impressive was the fortitude of Rock Racing in an event that saw only 77 riders of 132 starters finish the 650-mile race. Rodriguez’s finish was particularly impressive considering he was badly hurt in a crash during the final miles of Saturday’s stage. He needed crutches just to walk from the team car to his bicycle to start Sunday. “Basically, I could ride a bike, but I couldn’t walk,” Rodriguez said. “As the race went on, things started loosening up and I felt a little better. Then the weather came and I crashed again. I thought that was it at that point. But even though my morale was down, I pressed on and it basically become a battle of survival."


Rock Racing's Mario Cipollini tries to avoid the crash by
Mark Cavendish (Team High Road). photo © VeroImage.com

Toyota-United’s Rollin wins Sprint Jersey Competition at ATOC
2/26/08 - The Toyota-United Pro Cycling Team came and battled against the best pro cycling teams in the world and came away the victor in the coveted sprint jersey competition in the 2008 Amgen Tour of California. The team struggled into the day with 3 riders remaining but gathered some pre race inspiration from the Wounded Warriors who came to visit the team with 15 Gulf War and Afghanistan veterans. The boys then gathered a quick game plan and Heath Blackgrove, Henk Vogels and Dominique Rollin saddled up and rode the final leg from Santa Clarita into the famed football grounds at the finish of the Rose Bowl. There was nothing flowery about the day as the rains came early on the climb to 4800 feet and Henk Vogels couldn’t muster up the leg strength to finish the race and abandoned at about the 52 mile mark. Only 77 racers finished this race in a peloton that was decimated by stomach virus’ all week and worn down bodies fell all over from the original 135 riders. more >


Hincapie (High Road) finally got his stage win after many aggressive breaks this Tour.
photo © Danny Lapinid

Hincapie Wins Final ATOC Stage and Leipheimer Wins Overall GC
2/24/08 - After eight challenging days of cycling through 650-miles of scenic California highways, roadways and coastline drives, Levi Leipheimer (USA) of Astana was crowned as champion of the 2008 Amgen Tour of California for the second consecutive year, with a weeklong total time of 29 hours, 24 minutes and 32 seconds of cycling across California.  A resident of Santa Rosa, Calif., Leipheimer battled against the best field ever assembled to compete in the United States, which included Olympic medalists and World Champions, among others.  George Hincapie (USA) of High Road claimed the Stage 7 win.  Attacks broke out with Michael Creed (USA) and Doug Ollerenshaw (USA), both of Rock Racing, at the front.  This battle drew the attention of Hincapie.  They drove hard for 50 miles as a break, but as they closed in on Pasadena, Tom Zirbel (USA) of Bissell Pro Cycling launched a solo break and carried a 15-second lead into the final six circuits on the five-mile loop around the Rose Bowl.  As the end of the race drew near, Hincapie powered across the gap and caught Zirbel.  Rory Sutherland (AUS) of HealthNet Presented by Maxxis soon followed.  Others would join the breakaway as well, including Jason McCartney (USA) of Team CSC and Creed, but it would prove to be Hincapie’s stage.  He blasted out of the sprint to score a huge win for Team High Road. “As soon as we came into the circuits, everyone was attacking; the majority of the work that the breakaway did fall to me,” said Hincapie.  “The last 30 kilometers was really difficult; I’m glad it worked out for me.  As soon as we hit the circuit laps, the race was on and things got aggressive, so we warmed up pretty quick.”


The Astana team delivered Levi into Pasadena with a victory and a message to ASO.
Levi celebrates with his wife and former racer Odessa.
Leipheimer photo © Mitchell Clinton / www.clintonphoto.com.

Pagliarini Claims Victory After Penalty Shakes Up Standings in Stage 6
2/23/08 - After a review by race officials, Luciano Pagliarini (BRA) of Saunier Duval-Scott was determined to be the stage winner, followed closely by Juan Jose “J.J.” Haedo (ARG) of Team CSC and World Champion Paolo Bettini (ITA) of Quick Step.  Levi Leipheimer (USA) of Astana retained the overall lead heading into the final stage of the race, which will take riders from Santa Clarita to Pasadena tomorrow. Mark Cavendish (GBR) of High Road, who was originally declared the stage winner, recovered from a late crash during the first circuit lap and seemed to deliver a powerful sprint victory for High Road.  However, officials would later relegate the sprinter for sheltering behind or falling into the slipstream of a vehicle.  This decision gave the win to Pagliarini.“ “Officials saw Mark (Cavendish) hang on to a car for an extended period of time,” said Jim Birrell, race director. “It’s unfortunate because he put in such a good effort today, but those are the rules.” Despite the chaos and challenges that came late in the race, Astana managed to keep Leipheimer in the overall race lead, with an advantage of 49 seconds going into tomorrow’s race. A significant breakaway featured Steven Cozza (USA) of Slipstream Chipotle Presented by H30, Rory Sutherland (AUS) of HealthNet Presented by Maxxis, Christophe Le Mevel (FRA) of Credit Agricole, Alexandre Pichot (FRA) of Bouygues Telecom, Karsten Kroon (NED) of Team CSC and David Canada (ESP) of Saunier Duval-Scott. As the breakaway reached the streets of Santa Clarita, the leaders only had a dwindling two minute advantage.  At the front of the field rode a train of Quick Step riders, with its two sprinters, Bettini and Tom Boonen (USA), in tow.  Following close behind was High Road with its aces, Cavendish and Gerald Ciolek (GER), and Rock Racing’s sprint duo of Mario Cipollini (ITA) and Fred Rodriguez (USA). But in that fight for position, wheels touched and down went Cipollini, Rodriguez and Cavendish in a heap.   “Coming into the last two laps, I had Cipollini in front of me and Cavendish in front of him,” said Rodriguez.  “Cavendish swerved and took out Mario.  I had no where to go.  I basically t-boned Mario and then went head first into the pavement.” Cavendish and Cipollini both remounted and chased back up through the cars to the field and then advanced for the sprint.


Luciano Pagliarini proudly displays the Brazilian flag on the podium.
JJ Haedo and Paolo Bettini also enjoy podium spots.
photo © Danny Lapinid


The break made it to the finishing circuits in Santa Clarita, only to be caught.
photo © Mitchell Clinton / www.clintonphoto.com

Who Will Win the Amgen Tour of CA?
Levi Leipheimer
Fabian Cancellara
David Millar
David Zabriskie
Robert Gesink
Bob Roll
  
pollcode.com free polls

Leipheimer Wins Solvang Time Trial, Retains Lead
2/22/08 - After a challenging day of racing yesterday, the riders were faced with a 15-mile course that was dominated by Levi Leipheimer (USA) of Astana for the second consecutive year.  Besting David Millar (GBR) of Slipstream Chipotle PB H30 by 29 seconds, Leipheimer further built on his overall lead in the 2008 race and will wear the Amgen Leader Jersey going into Stage 6 tomorrow. Moving into second and third were Slipstream Chipotle Presented by H30 riders David Millar and Christian Vande Velde (USA), respectively. Racing on a 15-mile course in surprisingly dry conditions, Leipheimer rolled out of the start gate with confidence.  Coming off a savage 135-mile stage on Thursday, most of the cyclists struggled to beat the 33-minute barrier.   “It was very windy out there,” said Vande Velde, noting the crosswind gusts between buildings in certain sections actually pushed him to a 45-degree position.  “I almost got thrown off my bike.  I had to settle in.” Vande Velde was the first rider to break through the 32-minute barrier, posting a 31:31, but that time would soon be beat by another strong rider, his teammate Millar. Millar, a former World Champion and winner of the Tour de France individual time trial, whipped into the finish stretch and posted a seemingly untouchable 31:15. The most anticipated rider of the day, World Time Trial Champion Fabian Cancellara (SUI) of Team CSC, who demonstrated amazing fitness on Wednesday to take the stage and rival Leipheimer, came in fifth today with a time of 31:51, which put him in fourth place overall going into tomorrow’s stage. Leipheimer hit the tape to post an amazing time of 30:46.  Despite wind, turns and hills, he had powered his bike nearly 30 mph for a half hour and crushed the competition at every time split.


Levi Leipheimer (Astana) topped the podium, with Slipstream
teammates David Millar and Christian Vande Velde rounding it out.
photo © Mitchell Clinton / www.clintonphoto.com


David Millar put in a fast time, but not fast enough.
Leipheimer hammered in 29 seconds faster.
D. Millar photo © Danny Lapinid
L. Leipheimer photo © Mitchell Clinton / www.clintonphoto.com

Join the Meeting on February 26 to Discuss the Use of Rose Bowl Loop
2/22/08 - A meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 26th in the Mediterranean Room at Brookside Club House to address the recreational users of the Rose Bowl and give attendees a chance to express their point of view and opinion on the topic of Rose Bowl usage. Additionally, a small adhoc committee has been working very hard the past 7 months meeting with the Rose Bowl Operating Committee (RBOC), the Pasadena Police Dept., and members of the City Council including the newly elected City Manager. They are working collaboratively with these individuals to come up with solutions regarding the Rose Bowl Ride.  It would benefit individuals to attend the meeting at 7:00 pm on February 26 to support the ongoing efforts to keep the Rose Bowl ride a safe and fun event for everyone. While you're there, please take a moment to thank the following people for all their hard and unselfish work.  These people have given their time, energy, support and dedication.  It's because of this small group of individuals (Katie Safford, Robert Llamas, Chris Keller, Chris Ziegler and Mark Rich) that the ride continues. For more info call (626) 577-3107.

North End Classic Bike Race Returns to Yuma's Historic Downtown
2/22/08 - The streets of downtown Yuma and the back roads of East County will once again hum with racing bikes as the North End Classic returns March 1 and 2 after a two-year hiatus. Presented by Burgers and Beer and Sponsored by the Yuma Bike Club, the North End Classic is a two-day stage race, combining a hilly and fun downtown crit course with a mostly flat road race the following day in nearby Wellton. The event, sanctioned by USA Cycling, offers nearly $8,000 in prizes and primes. In addition to the cycling events, the City of Yuma will kick off Saturday with a 5K (running) race at 8 a.m. (onsite registration available from 7 to 7:45 a.m.), while a block party and expo sponsored by the Yuma Visitors Bureau will keep the party going from noon until late evening. The Town of Wellton also will host a barbecue following the road race on Sunday. Details about all of the events are available online at yumabikeclub.com (click on link for North End Classic), along with a map of the downtown course.


SoCalCycling.com has it's own Daily Distraction.
The Rock Racing podium girls show the crowd in San Jose some love.
photo © VeroImage.com

Support the BigCity Cycling Foundation Fundraiser
2/22/08 - Big City Velo is having a fundraiser dinner and would love to see you there. This event will be a fundraiser for BigCity Cycling Foundation which supports Becky Quinn and other local development riders. LeaderBike, Canari, BigCity Velo Cycling Club and the newly formed BigCity Cycling Foundation support up and coming local Southern California cyclists with an opportunity to reach their potential and goals and compete at a National, World and Olympic level. An event to salute recently named 2008 Olympic Long Team Member, local Becky Quinn, on Sunday, Feb. 24th at 5:30pm at When In Rome Restaurant in Encinitas, CA. If you can't attend, When in Rome can receive donations over the phone at 760-944-1771. Invitation >


George Hincapie made a strong effort to win in High Road's hometown, but
Dominique Rollin (Toyota) powered away from the break and held on for the win.
photo © Mitchell Clinton / www.clintonphoto.com

Dominique Rollin Rolls Away to Win Epic Stage 4 in SLO
2/21/08 - Six-time Canadian National Road Champion Dominique Rollin (CAN) of the Toyota-United Pro Cycling Team made history today as he powered away to an impressive solo victory in Stage 4 of the 2008 Amgen Tour of California.  Weather hammered the peloton for nearly seven hours as the stage took riders down the California coast from Seaside to San Luis Obispo on an impressive and challenging course.  Defending champion Levi Leipheimer (USA) of Astana was able to retain the overall lead and will wear the Amgen Leader Jersey going into the individual time trial in Solvang tomorrow. “Last time I raced in such tough weather, I won the stage,” said Rollin, referring to a stormy day in Quebec’s 2005 Tour de Beauce.  “The worse it is, the better I am.  When the wind came, I said keep it coming.”  At the start of the race, strong man Henk Vogels (AUS) of the Toyota-United Pro Cycling Team launched an attack, which preempted several counterattacks.  However, it would be Rollin who blasted up the road with Jackson Stewart (USA) of Team BMC to take the lead.  Others soon joined the breakaway, including George Hincapie (USA) of High Road, Iker Camano (ESP) of Saunier Duval-Scott, Bryce Meade (USA) of the Jelly Belly Cycling Team and Edward King (USA) of BISSELL Pro Cycling. Eventually, the break would grow to include 11 riders, and their gap on the field grew to 4:35. The field finished 2:27 down on Rollin.  Leipheimer remained in the lead, just ahead of Cancellara going into the critical Stage 5 individual time trial.


CSC's Stuart O'Grady and Fabian Cancellara head down the coast from
Seaside to SLO with Tom Boonen (Quick Step) under cold and wet conditions.
photo © Mark Johnson/Ironstring.com

Rock Racing’s Peña Rockets Into Top 10 Overall
2/21/08 - Rock Racing’s Victor Hugo Peña sent a clear message Wednesday that he is a threat to contend for a strong overall finish at the Amgen Tour of California. Peña was one of only five riders in the lead group as the race crossed its highest point, the 4,100-foot summit of Mount Hamilton, midway through Stage 3. The Colombian would go on to finish among a group of 15 riders who were 19 seconds behind stage winner Robert Gesink (Rabobank) and runner-up Levi Leipheimer (Astana). Peña’s impressive performance in 102.7-mile (165.3 km) race from Modesto to San Jose moved him up 23 places in the overall standings to 10th place, 31 seconds behind Leipheimer, the new overall race leader and defending champion of the Tour of California. Rock Racing Team Owner Michael Ball said seeing Peña race wheel-to-wheel with the best at the head of the peloton – on the toughest stage to date – was both satisfying and a disappointment. “We came here to make the moves and win stages,” Ball said. “Like Mario Cipollini’s podium finish yesterday, Victor’s ride today proved that Rock Racing has top talent,” Ball said. “At the same time, this stage played to the strengths of our three riders who were not allowed to compete in this race: Tyler Hamilton, Santiago Botero and Oscar Sevilla.” Peña, whose impressive credentials include wearing the yellow leader’s jersey for three stages of the 2003 Tour de France and winning an individual time trial stage in the Giro d’Italia, agreed with Ball’s assessment of the talented trio who are unable to compete in the most prestigious race in the United States. “The only thing I can say is that at training camp, they were better than me,” Peña said. “Santiago and Oscar were much better than me. Tyler was always with me. So I think those three guys would have been good contenders for Levi.”


The gruppetto makes its way up Mt. Hamilton.
photo © Mark Johnson/Ironstring.com

Leipheimer Moves Into the Leaders Jersey, Gesink Wins Stage
2/21/08 - After completing one of the most challenging and defining stages of the 2008 Amgen Tour of California, which included the brutal Mt. Hamilton (Hors Category) and Sierra Road (Cat. 1) climbs, cycling’s new generation shined again as 21-year-old Robert Gesink (NED) of Rabobank took the stage win.  While Santa Rosa California resident Levi Leipheimer (USA) of Astana was outsprinted by Gesink for the stage win, the defending champion none-the-less gained the event’s overall lead.  As the one of most difficult stages in the 2008 Amgen Tour of California, the 103-mile Stage 3 course from Modesto to San Jose featured 165 turns and two critical climbs that separated the pack. “This win is really great for me because the field of riders is very competitive in the Amgen Tour of California,” said Gesink.  “Today was a really big win for our team; we were strong as a team today.”  After struggling early on due to a stomach virus, Tyler Farrar (USA) of Slipstream Chipotle Presented by H30, who won the Amgen Leader Jersey the day before in Sacramento, abandoned the race after the second climb.

 
Robert Gesink (Rabobank) and Levi Leipheimer put in a big effort to hold off
the chase group, with Gesink taking the win and Leiphiemer the GC.
photo © Mitchell Clinton / www.clintonphoto.com

Rock the Cure Foundation Teams Up with Rock Racing
2/20/08 - Earlier Tuesday, Rock the Cure made an appearance on the awards platform when Ball presented a check for $10,000 to Boys & Girls Club of Greater Sacramento representative Edwin Cotton on behalf from Rock Racing. Rock the Cure is the philanthropic division of Rock & Republic and the realization of a charitable giving model that can make a genuine difference. As part of Rock the Cure’s involvement Tuesday, Rock Racing rider Rahsaan Bahati helped children experience the excitement of the Amgen Tour of California by visiting the Boys & Girls Club. He spoke about how cycling changed his life for the better and the children received exclusive Rock Racing and Rock the Cure products and apparel. A second Rock The Cure presentation will take place Friday in Solvang, Calif. About two dozen children will accompany Bahati for a VIP experience at the individual time trial and the Sheriff’s Activity League will receive a $10,000 donation.


Rock Racing Owner Michael Ball (second from left) was joined by
Rock Racing rider Rahsaan Bahati (far right) in the presentation of a
$10,000 check to the  Boys & Girls Club of Greater Sacramento.
photo © VeroImage.com

Tom Boonen Sprints to Victory in Sacramento
2/19/08 - The second stage of the 2008 Amgen Tour of California saw the emergence of a young star in Tyler Farrar (USA) of Slipstream Chipotle Presented by H30 and the return of old warrior in Mario Cipollini (ITA) of Rock Racing.  But the wet and slippery streets of the State Capitol belonged to 2005 World Champion and Belgian superstar Tom Boonen (BEL) QuickStep, who claimed today's stage victory.  Stage 2, which took cyclists from Santa Rosa to Sacramento, finished in front of record crowds, taking the total attendance number for the first three days of the race to 425,000, with five days left to go. Having spent most of the nearly 116-mile race chasing one rider, Scott Nydam (USA) of Team BMC, the field roared into Sacramento resigned to settle the matter in a bunch sprint.  As the peloton poured around the final corner, Gerald Ciolek (GER) of High Road, wearing the Union Bank of California Best Young Rider Jersey, fired off the front and opened a massive gap.  Reigning World Champion Paolo Bettini (ITA) of QuickStep charged after Ciolek with Boonen in tow.  When Boonen finally broke loose, he focused on the legendary Cipollini, who came out of a three-year retirement to race for the American Rock Racing team. “Racing in America seems less stressful; people approach the race differently,” said Boonen.  “I think we’ll be coming back to the Amgen Tour of California for the next couple of years.” Farrar, who finished third in Sunday’s Prologue, moved up the general classification rankings into the Amgen Leader Jersey, replacing Cancellara.


Tom Boonen (Quick Step) took the sprint over
Mark Cavendish (High Road) and Mario Cipollini (Rock Racing).
photo © Mitchell Clinton / www.clintonphoto.com


Tom Boonen (Quick Step) easily won Stage 2 in Sacramento.
photo © Mark Johnson/Ironstring.com

JJ Haedo Wins Stage One in Santa Rosa
2/19/08 - Record crowds were on-hand for Stage 1 of the Amgen Tour of California to watch the world’s best cyclists travel over some of California’s most scenic highways, from Sausalito to Santa Rosa, culminating with a climactic finish in downtown Santa Rosa as Juan Jose “J.J.” Haedo (ARG), of Team CSC, sprinted to an impressive win, his fifth stage win in the Amgen Tour of California (2006-2008), ahead of Gerald Ciolek (GER), of High Road, and Heinrich Haussler (GER) of Gerolsteiner. “The final 60km (40 miles) of the race were very fast; I barely made it to the finish.  That was a really hard part for me,” said Haedo, Stage 1 winner.  “Everyone was really fast today, but when you see the last 200 meters, you go as hard as you can and don’t look back.  We have a lot of good sprinters in the Amgen Tour of California, really a good level of competition.” Haedo’s teammate Fabian Cancellara (SUI), the overall race leader after yesterday’s Prologue, retained the Amgen Leader's Jersey after an exciting day of racing. The 98.6-mile stage from Sausalito to Santa Rosa took the scenic coastal route along Highway 1 before turning inland for a difficult ascent up the 827-ft. Coleman Valley Road climb, 64 miles into the race.  After about 10 miles, Jackson Stewart (USA) of Team BMC, who lives in nearby Los Gatos, Calif., found himself in a solo lead after attempting a breakaway move with three other riders.  Stewart achieved this goal by remaining clear of the field over the summit of Coleman Valley Road.


The CA Pools Racing Team won the Overall GC, and got 3rd and 4th GC,
including the crit stage at VOS in the 30+. photo © CA Pools Racing

Brooke Miller Wins Amgen Tour of CA Women's Criterium in Santa Rosa
2/19/08 - Premiering during Stage 1 of the 2008 Amgen Tour of California, the Women's Criterium presented by the Redwood Regional Breast Center was enthusiastically welcomed by the thousands of fans lining the streets of Santa Rosa.  Brooke Miller from Tibco won the inaugural race with an impressive performance. The newest addition to the National Racing Calendar (NRC), the Women’s Criterium used portions of the Stage 1 men’s finishing circuit in Santa Rosa for the course.  As a new component to the 2008 Amgen Tour of California professional road cycling race, the Women’s Criterium consisted of a field of 85 riders competing for more than $10,000 in prizes.  Set as a category Pro 1,2 race and with a limit of eight riders per team, the Amgen Tour of California Women's Criterium showcased some of the world's top professional women's cycling teams. “The inaugural Amgen Tour of California Women’s Criterium was an absolute success,” said Laura Charameda, race director, Amgen Tour of California Women's Criterium. “The response from the crowd and racers was extremely high in both the quality of the women’s racing and the excitement generated by it.  I look forward to the women not only returning next year, but to multiple locations along the route.”


Cancellara stays in the lead after stage 1.
photo © Mitchell Clinton / www.clintonphoto.com

Mario Cipollini Leads Rock Racing On Opening Day
2/17/08 - Rock Racing’s Mario Cipollini made a successful return to professional cycling after nearly three years away from the sport by finishing 44th in the prologue time trial that opened the third edition of the Amgen Tour of California. The 2002 world road race champion was greeted by some of the loudest cheers from the massive crowd lining the two-mile (3.3 km) course through the streets of Palo Alto and the Stanford University campus. His time of four minutes and eight seconds was 17 seconds behind the winner, Fabian Cancellara (CSC), who clocked 3:51. “The size of the crowd was amazing and caught me off guard,” Cipollini said. “It was great to hear so many people cheering my name and shouting encouragement. I was very pleased with my form today.” In other racing action Sunday at the Valley of the Sun Stage Race, the Rock Racing men’s elite team scored a 1-2 finish with Justin Williams and Sterling Magnell, respectively, in the Landis Cyclery criterium in Downtown Phoenix. In the women’s Pro-I-II race, Rock Racing’s Lana Michelle Atchley won the overall while Rachel Herring finished third in the criterium.


Michael Ball and non-starters Tyler Hamilton, Oscar Sevilla and
Santiago Botero met the media during the pre-race autograph session.
photo © VeroImage.com


Mario Cipollini didn't look like a rider who has been out of the sport nearly three years.
photo © VeroImage.com

World Time Trial Champion Fabian Cancellara Wins Prologue
2/17/08 - The 2008 Amgen Tour of California started on a high note in Palo Alto when World Champion Fabian Cancellara (SUI) of Team CSC bested a world-class field containing nine World Champions to claim victory on a fast, flat course lined shoulder-to-shoulder with cheering fans.  The enthusiastic crowd cheered on the cyclists as they made their way from downtown Palo Alto to Stanford University. Completing the 2.1-mile course with a record time of 3:51.21, Cancellara will begin day two of the race wearing the yellow Amgen Leader's Jersey when Stage 1 takes the riders from Sausalito to Santa Rosa on Monday morning.  Today, Cancellara became the first foreign rider ever to wear the yellow jersey in the Amgen Tour of California.
In second place, four seconds behind Cancellara, was Bradley Wiggins (GBR) of High Road, followed by Tyler Farrar (USA) of Slipstream Chipotle Powered by H30, who came in third, five seconds off the pace.  Team High Road became the general team classification leader after the first day of racing with a total time of 11:52.


World Time Trial Champion Fabian Cancellara (CSC) wins the ATOC prologue.
photo © Mitchell Clinton / www.clintonphoto.com

Taking Orders on SoCalCycling.com Clothing Now
2/15/08 - We have a new look for '08 and it's so hot, someone pulled up along side of me in their car while I was riding and said "The new kits look awesome!" Thanks for the compliment! We like the new look too! We are taking preorders on jerseys and shorts through March 4th. We also have some new socks by Sock Guy to go with the clothing that will be in stock next week.
Order Online Now >
Join our club and get additional clothing items >


Sign the online petition to support getting Levi and the Astana Team
back in the Tour at LetLeviRide.com. It will be sent to the ASO and VS.
photo © Mitchell Clinton / www.clintonphoto.com

Unified Rock Racing Team Votes To Ride Short-Handed
Rock Racing’s Michael Ball Responds To AEG’s Exclusion Of 3 Riders
2/16/08 - Despite only being able to field a five-rider squad – three short of the standard team roster – Rock Racing will compete in the Amgen Tour of California. Rock Racing Team Owner Michael Ball said the team’s riders and staff collectively decided Saturday night not to pull out of the race after race organizer AEG declared that three riders on the team’s original race roster – Tyler Hamilton, Santiago Botero and Oscar Sevilla – would not be allowed to start. In a press conference Saturday morning, Ball announced that each of the three riders’ national federations had declared them free and clear to start the eight-day, 650-mile race. None are subject of any “open investigations” related to doping. At a press conference by race organizer AEG, officials announced that terms of a contract between the race organization and each of the 17 teams in the race led to the exclusion of the three Rock Racing riders.  “This is not a decision governed by the agreement,” Ball said. “There is no open investigation. AEG is acting irrationally, to the detriment of the sport.” The five Rock Racing riders who will compete in Sunday’s prologue time trial through the streets of Palo Alto are: Mario Cipollini (ITA), Michael Creed (USA), Doug Ollerenshaw (USA), Victor Hugo Pena (COL) and Freddie Rodriguez (USA). 

Should Rock Racing's Hamilton, Botero and Sevilla be allowed to race in the Amgen Tour of CA?
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Fred Rodriguez is one of of the Rock Racing riders that is cleared to start.
photo © Mitchell Clinton / www.clintonphoto.com

Paging Rock Racing
2/15/08 - Can someone send the company jet to Phoenix and pick up a few riders to fill out your Amgen TOC roster, if the other guys don't work out? I am sure the nice folks at Valley of the Sun will understand.

Amgen Tour of California Team Rosters Announced
2/14/08 - The Amgen Tour of California has announced the team rosters. It is a stellar field, including nine Pro Tour teams, World Champions and Olympians. Astana's roster includes American's Levi Leipheimer and Chris Horner and a mix of last year's Discovery and Astana riders, but no Contador. I am imagining that Levi, Horner and the rest of Astana boys are a little pissed about being banned by the ASO, so am predicting a big 'ol can of woop ass being opened. Rock Racing only has five riders listed, including Michael Creed, Kayle Leogrande, Doug Ollerenshaw, Victor Hugo Pena and Fred Rodriguez. Will Cipo suit up? And what about Hamilton, Botero and Sevilla or are they out due to the reopening of Operación Puerto? It should be a great race, so get hooked up on Versus, if you aren't already, and for live internet action be sure to check out the Tour Tracker.

St. Patty's Day Feast Mountain Bike Race on March 15th - 16th
2/14/08 - Come out to the St. Patty's Weekend Downhill and Super-D Event at legendary Bootleg Canyon and the Saturday night Street Party in Boulder City, Nevada, widely known as the home of the Interbike Outdoor Demo. Race participants will receive free beginner clinics with World Vet Champion Doris Matyasovich, on-site mechanical support from "Stan the Bike Whisperer", event T-Shirts, cash prizes for the elite racers and trophies for the amateurs. There is also free on-site camping with restrooms and showers. Mail-in, online and same day registration will be available, as well as in advance at All-Mountain Cyclery in Boulder City. more info >

Astana Banned From ASO Events Including the Tour de France
2/13/08 - It was announced that Astana will be banned from all ASO events and the upcoming Tour de France due to "the damage caused by this team to the Tour de France and cycling in general, as much in 2006 as 2007." This means that 2007 Tour de France winner Alberto Contador and third placed Levi Leipheimer will be affected, as well as American Chris Horner who were not part of the previous Astana teams. I was a little surprised that these riders signed with Astana knowing that this could happen. Former Discovery Team Director, Johann Bruyneel, has been trying to clean up Astana's image to get beyond their past reputation, but apparently this is not enough. Thanks Vino and Kashechkin!

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City of Los Angeles Bicycle Master Plan Update - Public Invited
2/13/08 - The City of Los Angeles is updating the Bicycle Master Plan, which will provide transportation improvements for the bicycling community. The public is invited to attend a workshop to provide input on bicycle policies, facility improvements and other related issues. Workshops are scheduled throughout Los Angeles, at four (4) neighborhood locations, during the months of February and March 2008. Refreshments will be served, so please join us at one or all of the workshops. If you cannot attend the workshop, you can visit the website at www.labikeplan.org.

Memorial Ride For Fallen Police Officer Randy Simmons
2/12/08 - In light of recent, very sad circumstances, the Police Unity Tour Southern California Chapter has elected to pay tribute to fallen officer, Randal Simmons. Their regularly scheduled Training Ride on Saturday, Feb. 16th will be a very special one. It will be a "Memorial Ride For Randy" and fundraiser for his family. It will start at the LAPD Academy, 1880 N. Academy Dr. in Elysian Park, and travel to West Valley Station and on to the location where Randy lost his life to hostile gunfire. There will be a memorial ceremony and laying of a wreath by the members of the "Police Unity Tour, So. Calif. Chapter". We will then ride back to the Academy. Round trip will be about 50 miles. It will be a slow pace so we can keep everyone together. We are encouraging everyone who rides a bike to join us in remembering Randy, an incredible police officer, father and human being. We are especially hoping for all former, present and future Unity Tour members to be there with Unity Tour jerseys and LAPD CYCLING TEAM riders to be wearing their kits as well. If anyone wishes to help it would be appreciated. more info >


Rock Racing's CEO, Michael Ball, celebrates with a pair of devil horns, after
Rahsaan Bahati easily won the field sprint at the Roger Millikan Memorial Crit.
photo © SoCalCycling.com

Baker to Death Valley Road Race is Ready to Roll on March 1st
2/11/08 - Velo Allegro is promoting the second annual Baker to Death Valley Road Race on March 1, 2008.  Starting on Highway 127 and heading north from the worlds largest thermometer and the city of Baker, this 80-mile point-to-point road race will provide a challenge to all racers involved.  The course includes a 7-mile climb starting at mile 33 that features a 4% grade for the first 4 miles and a 5% grade for the last 3.  The climb was a major factor in last year's race, producing the decisive breaks.  Important information: On-site registration will be available Friday night at the Wills Fargo Motel and early Saturday morning before the start of the race.  Save yourself time and pre-register online (see race flyer for details).  Due to the point-to-point nature of this course, racers are strongly encouraged to have a support person/vehicle to provide food and water at the feedzone and transportation back to Baker after the race. 


A late break in the Pro 1,2 race at the Roger Millikan Memorial Crit
looked like it might stick, but unfortunately got caught with one to go.
photo © SoCalCycling.com

Vuelta Ciclista CROC Stage 4 Diary - By Ben Day (Toyota-United)
2/10/08 - After the first 3 stages of close finishes and having the whole Mexican peloton marking our wheels, today we finally broke through with a win. The first stage saw Henk and Dom lap the field in a 12 man break, Henk finishing 2nd and Dom 5th.  The 2nd stage was more of a matter of minimizing our losses with 5 punctures in 70km and a neutral support vehicle that didn’t want to give us wheels… In the third stage, the 5 of us put the hammer down in the crosswinds and shredded the field to pieces.  If it wasn’t for Dom having an untimely puncture, we would have had 5 guys in a group of 20 at the finish.  Instead, it was just Henk and I trying to consolidate Henk’s 2nd overall.  I slipped into a move in the final 5km and misjudged the sprint line and finished 2nd on the stage.  So, today, we were keen to go to Mr. Dependable, the maestro Ivan Dominguez. more >


Bonnie Bourque (Acqua al 2/SDBC) won the Imperial Classic with Betsy Galenti
(Helens) and Melinda Johnson (Acqua al 2/SDBC) rounding out the podium.

Valley of the Sun Anticipates Over 6,000 Participants and Spectators
2/8/08 - The 16th Annual Valley of the Sun, John Earley Memorial Stage Race, presented by Transcend Broadband, Landis Cyclery and Trek will be held February 15th-17th. The Valley of the Sun Stage Race, held in the greater Phoenix area, is a premiere event that has become the largest attended, multi-day bicycle race in North America. In 2007, almost 900 cyclists competed in front of thousands of enthusiastic spectators as they lined the courses and cheered on the riders. The 2008 race will award over $15,000 in cash and prizes and will attract some of the top professional cycling teams from North America and abroad. Professional cyclist from Johan Bruyneel’s Belgium Cycling Center will be racing, along with the defending Pro champion Matt Seagrave and Pro men’s 2005 overall winner Ryan Blickem of the local Landis/Trek team. The 2006 criterium winner, Neil Shirley (Jittery Joe’s), will be back to defend his win in Stage 3 – the downtown Phoenix Capital Criterium. Challenging Neil will be racers from professional teams Successful Living p/b Parkpre and BMC Pro Cycling Team. No doubt, this will be a true showdown of strength and power. In the women’s peleton, Team Rock from Los Angeles will compete against the local favorite Landis/Trek team of Jennifer Weaver and Chloe Black, along with dozens of the nation’s top elite women cyclists.


Slipstream gets ready for the Amgen TOC at their New Mexico training camp.
photo © Mitchell Clinton / www.clintonphoto.com

Rock Racing Announces Amgen Tour of California Partnership
2/8/08 - Rock Racing, founded by cyclist and Rock & Republic CEO/Creative Director Michael Ball, and AEG announced a sponsorship agreement that names Rock Racing as the official fashion apparel sponsor of the 2008 Amgen Tour of California professional cycling road race. With its sexy, rock star fashion and aggressive approach, Rock Racing brings the edge back to cycling. That same edge and style will soon be available to cyclists around the world, with the launch of Rock Racing merchandise.  Rock Racing’s new line of apparel will be distributed to high-end specialty stores throughout the United States beginning in March 2008. The Rock Racing brand will be available in all of North America, Europe and Asia by 2010. The line will also expand its scope beyond cycling to provide a full line of premium sports apparel.  The Rock Racing line premiers with jerseys, bibs, arm and leg warmers, hats, shoe covers, socks and track suits.   A new addition to the 2008 Amgen Tour of California, the Rock Racing Podium Girls will be visible hostesses outfitted in Rock Racing apparel and featured daily at race functions as well as within the online and televised race coverage.

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Slipstream rolls through the beautiful terrain of New Mexico.
photo © Mitchell Clinton / www.clintonphoto.com

Toyota-United Names its 2008 Amgen Tour of California Team
2/7/08 - The Toyota-United Pro Cycling Team Directors Len Pettyjohn and Scott Moninger have named the racing team for the 2008 Amgen Tour of California. Scott and Len have narrowed down the riders for the Amgen Tour of California. The main criteria they used this year was to utilize riders from the Southern Hemisphere primarily who have been riding and training specifically for the early season race in California. The riders they have targeted for the race are Heath Blackgrove (NZL), Ben Day (AUS), Ivan Dominguez (CUB), Hilton Clarke (AUS), Jonny Clarke (AUS), Caleb Manion (AUS), Dominique Rollin (CAN), Henk Vogels (AUS), and Jose Manuel (Chepe) Garcia (MEX), out of these nine they will choose the final 8. All of these have raced over the past 4-6 weeks mainly in Australia and New Zealand with Blackgrove, Day and Jonny Clarke recently sweeping the podium at the Boulevard road race in San Diego.  A group of 5 Toyota-United Pro Cycling Team members are currently racing in the Tour of Monterrey in Mexico February 4th -10th.  This team includes last years ATOC stage 7 winner, Ivan Dominguez (CUB).


The Toyota-United team prepares for the season in Solvang.
photo © Kathleen Poulos

Team Type 1 Ready For First Pro Race at the Tour of Langkawi
2/6/08 - Team Type 1 will make its professional racing debut at the Tour of Langkawi in Malaysia, Feb. 9-17. Team Type 1 was created in 2005 to inspire people with diabetes around the world to take control of their health through diet, exercise and proper health care. TT1 won the corporate team division of the Race Across America (RAAM) in 2006 and 2007 before reorganizing as a UCI-registered professional continental team for 2008. Four members of its 15-rider pro team are athletes with Type 1 diabetes. Team Type 1's roster for the nine-stage, 855-mile race includes three Australians -- Matt Wilson, Ben Brooks and Fabio Calabria -- as well as American Ian MacGregor, New Zealand's Glen Chadwick and Moises Aldape of Mexico. Calabria, who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes seven years ago, will represent the Type 1 athletes.


The Health Net PB Maxxis Team hits the road during their Solvang Camp.
photo © Kurt Jambretz

Toyota-United Pro Cycling Team Sweeps the Podium at Boulevard
2/5/08 - The racing season opened this past weekend with the Toyota-United Professional Cycling Team lining up with a large contingent of Southern California riders and strong representation from three other American Professional Teams – Kelly Benefits-Medifast, Jelly Belly, and Rock Racing. The Toyota-United team, fresh off a Solvang, CA training camp, hit the front on the first of four laps as Caleb Manion set the tone for what was to come. With the chase on, Jonny Clarke slipped into the group and when contact was made the Toyota-United boys had two riders off the front. As subsequent groups chased and tried to bridge across to the front group there was always a Toyota-United teammate along. With windy, cold, and moderately high altitude (4,000’) the pace and conditions began to split the riders into ever smaller groups. With one circuit to go in the 90 mile race the Toyota-United team had five riders in the final 30 man selection and the hammer went down. Soloing in for the race win was Heath Blackgrove, followed by team mate Ben Day a few seconds later. Taking a three up sprint for third was another Toyota-United rider, Jonny Clarke for a sweep of the podium. Another few seconds later the race animator, Caleb Manion, soloed home for sixth and a minute later Dominique Rollin rolled in for 10th place. Blackgrove said, “We started strong due to Caleb’s efforts right off the line and we controlled the race for the final 15-20km, and it was just a matter of which of us from Toyota-United was going to finish first.” Team Directors, Len Pettyjohn and Scott Moninger, set the tone in the pre race meeting for what was expected and the riders were itching to do race aggressively and dictate the race conditions. Both commented after the race that the early season preparation is on track and the team’s performance in San Diego was especially exciting.


The Pro 1/2 race at the Boulevard Road Race.
photo © Mitchell Clinton / www.clintonphoto.com

Cannondale Purchased by Dorel Industries
2/4/08 - Dorel Industries announced it is re-organizing its Recreational/Leisure segment to create two distinct bicycle divisions to deal separately with the Independent Bicycle Dealer (IBD) and mass merchant channels. The changes are being made to coincide with today’s announced acquisition of the Bethel, Connecticut-based Cannondale Bicycle Corporation. The purchase also includes the Sugoi Performance Apparel Company. A new Dorel Independent Bicycle Dealer (IBD) Division, the Cannondale Sports Group, is being established and will devote all of its energies and resources exclusively to this channel. The Cannondale Sports Group will encompass Cannondale, Sugoi, GT and other premium-oriented brands, and will seek acquisitions in similar high quality, performance bicycle companies.


The rains came down for the Pro 1/2's at Red Trolley.
photo © Steve Taylor

Amgen Tour of California to Hold Pro Women's Event in Santa Rosa
2/2/08 - Adding to the excitement generated  throughout the last two years in Santa Rosa, the state of California and throughout the international cycling community by the most successful cycling race in the United States, AEG has announced details of the inaugural Amgen Tour of California Women's Criterium presented by the Redwood Regional Breast Center.  Using portions of the Stage 1 men’s finishing circuit in Santa Rosa, the newest addition to the National Racing Calendar (NRC) promises to be an exciting and historic event for racers and fans alike.  As the season opening NRC event, the Women's Criterium will pave the way for similar races to be included in U.S. professional men's road cycling races. Held in conjunction with Stage 1 of the Amgen Tour of California on Monday, Feb. 18, the Women's Criterium will consist of a field of 125 riders competing for more than $10,000 in prizes.  Set as a category Pro 1,2 race and with a limit of eight riders per team, the Amgen Tour of California Women's Criterium will showcase some of the world's top professional women's cycling teams.


Toyota-United took control at the Boulevard Road Race sweeping the podium.
photo © Mitchell Clinton / www.clintonphoto.com

2008 Tour de Murrieta Ready to “Kick-Off”
2/1/08 - "With great courses, a big prize list, SRAM neutral support for all riders, and SoCal Cup points up for grabs, the 2008 Tour de Murrieta is ready to roll,” said Ernie Sanchez, President of CA Pools Racing. The race courses remain downtown; the criterium location is great for spectators, and with the rolling terrain, the circuit race will be challenging for all competitors.  Once again, racers will be competing for cash prizes for individual stages and like last year, a large payout for those that register for the omnium,” Sanchez said. “It’s going to be a great race in 2008, pre-registration is already double than it was last year at the same time, we expect the large fields we’ve seen so far in other 2008 races to continue as riders prepare for other challenging races such as San Dimas Stage Race and the Redlands Classic,” said race registration coordinator, Jennifer Miller.  more >

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