News
Landis Writes Off 2007 Season in ESPN Interview
1/31/07 - Embattled Tour de France winner Floyd Landis said he's increasingly pessimistic he'll be able to race professionally this year even if he's cleared of doping charges. He said he and his lawyers have encountered frustrating obstacles while preparing to take his case to an independent arbitration panel convened under the auspices of the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency. With no hearing date set and none likely until at least late spring, "I've pretty much written off this season," Landis said in an interview with ESPN.com last week. more >
MERCO Credit Union Cycling Classic Attracts International Participation
1/30/07 - Cyclists from around the world will once again hit the streets of downtown Merced in the MERCO CREDIT UNION Cycling Classic Presented by McLane Pacific. The event will take place March 3-4, 2007. This year’s main event Saturday, March 3rd is the Downtown Grand Prix. From all over the globe, professional cyclists will race on a wide, fast .8 mile track that circles the historic Merced County Courthouse in full view of the crowds. The MCUCC is sanctioned by the USA Cycling, the official organization recognized by the United States Olympic Committee responsible for identifying, training and selecting cyclists to represent the United States in international competition. Part of the National Racing Calendar for USA Cycling, MCUCC is one in a series of the 45 most prestigious cycling races on American soil. more >
Prepare for a Day of Reckoning
1/26/07 - If you haven't heard by now, most of the major US Pro Teams including Toyota-United, Health Net, Slipstream, Jelly Belly, and Successful Living have been in SoCal holding their preseason training camps. We have been contacted by some of these teams looking for good races to do. Always one to oblige, we have put them in touch with the promoters, so they can get their race on before the Amgen Tour of California. They are signing up full teams to play with our local boys and from what I hear in our forum, there are more than a few riders shaking in their cleats. I say, embrace the opportunity to step up your game and learn from the best. If you aspire to turn pro, this could be your opportunity to show that you have the goods.
Chance Noble finished 39th in the U23 at the UCI 'Cross World Championships.
photo © Mitchell Clinton / www.clintonphoto.com
The Toyota-United Pro Cycling Team Announces 2007 Roster
1/25/07 - The Toyota-United Pro Cycling Team today announced its official second season line up featuring ten returning squad members and new names including: former professional Australian National Road Champion Henk Vogels; two-time professional Irish National Road Champion and former Junior World Road Champion Mark Scanlon; stage racing expert Burke Swindlehurst and the formidable Caleb Manion. more >
Kirk Willett (Team Director), Heath Blackgrove, Justin England, Jose Manuel “Chepe” Garcia, Stefano Barberi, Sean Sullivan, Caleb Manion, Henk Vogels (Team Co-Captain), Chris Wherry (Team Co-Captain), Ivan Stevic, Bobby Lea, Mark Scanlon, Chris Baldwin, Burke Swindlehurst, Ivan Dominguez, Harm Jansen (Team Director)
Photo Credit: Kathleen Poulos
Cannondale Presents Two Limited Edition AIDS/LifeCycle Bikes
1/24/07 - Cannondale Bicycles excitement of supporting the AIDS/LifeCycle ride for the past two years has lead to announcing it is building two new limited edition AIDS/LifeCycle road bikes which will be available exclusively at Helens Cycles in SoCal and Mikes Bikes in NorCal bike shops. more >
Limited Edition AIDS/LifeCycle Bikes are now available.
Frankie Andreu Joins the Executive Board of the ACE
1/24/07 - The Agency for Cycling Ethics, LLC (“ACE”) announces that Frankie Andreu has joined the Executive Board of the ACE. As a professional rider, Frankie was a team leader of US Postal as well as a leader among the peloton. Recently he has taken an active role in promoting clean cycling and will be an invaluable team leader for ACE. Dr. Paul Strauss, CEO of ACE remarked, “Throughout the cycling press, the UCI, the teams, and the ASO all recognize the need to put more emphasis and money towards anti-doping. Though ACE’s innovative drug testing, counseling and education programs, ACE provides the vehicle for teams and sponsors to take responsibility to clean-up cycling while protecting the riders health and improve the image of cycling. Mr. Andreu will help drive the vehicle of ACE to the teams and sponsors and promote ACE Clean Cycling Initiative.”
The Tucson Bicycle Classic is Back
1/23/07 - The Southwest's longest running multi-category USCF stage race is back on the Spring calendar! An intense prologue TT and two very challenging circuit races will provide 3 days of quality racing. The Tumacacori RR (Stage 2) offers a new course south of Tucson. One third of the loop is a 6% + climb and the remainder has fast corners, rollers, flats and several steep drops. It's a butt buster! The Stage 1 McCain Loop Time Trial and Stage 3 Anklam/Speedway Circuit Race courses will not change for 2007. And, as always, the race will be dedicated in memory of Garret Lemire and safety will be the #1 concern. Online reg. is open for the Tucson Bicycle Classic. Online registration is now open.
Sarah Hammer (OUCH) wins a gold medal in the points race with Yoanka Gonzalez Perez (CUB) taking silver and Dorronsoro Olaberria (DUR) taking bronze.
photo © Mitchell Clinton / www.clintonphoto.com
Sea Otter's Debut Adventure Race to Test Brains, not Brawn
1/22/07 - Organizers of the 17th annual Sea Otter Classic, a Celebration of Sport, throw open the gates this April to the multi-sport crowd with the debut of the Sea Otter Classic Thule Adventure Race. The event will feature a sprint distance for teams of two; a traditional distance for teams of four; and, a coed 'Corporate Cup' for teams of three. The race will feature kayaking on Monterey Bay. Trail running, cycling, and navigational skills will be tested on the Fort Ord Bureau of Land Management trails. All racing will take place on lucky Friday, April 13, 2007. The Sea Otter Classic will be held April 12 - 15, 2007 at the Laguna Seca Recreation Area, Monterey, California, USA. more >
Eric Carter (Mongoose) on his way to winning the
Southridge Winter Series #1 Mountain Cross.
Hammer Rides to Individual Pursuit Gold
1/21/07 - After claiming a gold medal in Friday’s points race, Sarah Hammer continued her streak of success with a record-breaking performance in the women’s three-kilometer individual pursuit Saturday. In the qualifying round, Hammer lowered her own national record to 3:32.058 seconds and then took care of business in the final with a head-to-head win over Verena Joos of Germany to successfully defend her L.A. World Cup crown in the pursuit from a year ago. more >
Americans Win Three More Medals
1/21/07 - Americans won three more medals on the final day of the Los Angeles Track World Cup as Sarah Hammer (Temecula, Calif./Ouch Pro Cycling) and Becky Quinn (Carlsbad, Calif.) took gold and silver in the women’s 10-kilometer scratch race and Jennie Reed (Kirkland, Wash.) sprinted to a bronze in the women’s keirin. The victory was Hammer’s third of the weekend after winning the points race on Friday and the individual pursuit on Saturday, giving her a clean sweep of the women’s endurance events. Americans concluded the event with five medals – three gold, one silver and one bronze. more >
Hammer wins Points Race and Sets National Pursuit Record
1/20/07 - A stellar field and crowd graced the ADT Event Center for the Los Angeles UCI World Cup. Individual Pursuit World Champion, Sarah Hammer, won the women's points race with some help from Becky Quinn who strung out the last lap allowing Hammer to win over Cuba's Yoanka Gonzalez. For full results and analysis of all events please visit tissottiming.com.
Becky Quinn (USA) strings out the field in the points race assisting Hammer to gold.
photo © Mitchell Clinton / www.clintonphoto.com
Get Ready for the Los Angeles UCI World Cup
1/19/07 - More than 290 athletes from over 50 teams and 35 countries will compete this weekend at the Union Cycliste International (UCI) Track Cycling World Cup Classics, beginning tomorrow, Friday, January 19 through Sunday, January 21, 2007. The record-high number of competitors tops the previous two World Cups in Carson at The Home Depot Center! New countries participating this year include Ireland, the Philippines, Puerto Rico, Scotland and Uzbekistan. Competing this year for the first time in a World Cup is USA World Champion Sarah Hammer's own OUCH Pro Cycling Team. Tickets are still available.
The Martin Luther King Classic took place before
the Martin Luther King Kingdom Day Parade in Los Angeles.
Women's Cycling Challenge Announces New Programs for '07
1/18/07 - In 2006, Southern California joined the National Grassroots Program, Cycling Made Real, to promote the sport women's bicycle racing. In 2006, the WCC (Women's Cycling Challenge) was co-founded by Bonnie Bourque and Dorothy Wong. With the help of several Coordinators, the WCC is a great success! Bonnie Bourque, Dorothy Wong, Julia Cross, Katie Safford and Betsi Galenti have all played an intergral role in the success of the Women's Programs in Southern California in 2006. In 2007, the WCC will continue to promote women's racing activities. This year, the WCC has added a Track Series, a Master Women's Category, Stage Races, and Instructional Races. The goal of the WCC is to continue to provide a nonintimidating, safe environment for entry level racers through clinics, instructional races and several points series. For more information and upcoming events, check the web site or contact Bonnie Bourque.
Danny Pate and new teammate, Huub Duyn, lead the Slipstream pb Chipotle
boys on a training ride east of Mount Palomar in the Cleveland National Forest.
photo © Ironstring.com
Junior Development Camp a Success
1/17/07 - The Southern California and Nevada Cycling Association held a Junior Development Camp in San Dimas the weekend of January 13 and 14. Six Junior Women and nineteen Junior Men from throughout the region enjoyed two full days of cycling education both on and off the bike. SCNCA Board of Trustees member Dominic Galenti and his group of volunteer's hard work paid off with the organizing and running of this event. Coach Michael Heitz did an outstanding job teaching and motivating the juniors. 2006 National Time Trial Champion Betsy Galenti rode and worked with the riders as well giving valuable insight and information about the world of women's racing to the Junior Women in attendance. The highlight of the weekend was Sunday's Road ride and sprint practice with Discovery Team member Tony Cruz around picturesque Puddingstone Reservoir and Bonelli Regional Park.
Tony Cruz with members of the SCNCA Junior Development Camp.
Photo and article courtesy of Donna Duarte
Final Teams Announced for Amgen Tour of California
1/16/07 - Joining previously announced Discovery Channel Pro Cycling Team, Team CSC, Predictor-Lotto and Health Net Pro Cycling Team, 14 additional teams, including U.S. teams Toyota-United Pro Cycling Team, Jelly Belly Cycling Team and Colavita/Sutter Home Presented by Cooking Light Team, have been confirmed for the 2007 Amgen Tour of California by AEG, promoter and operator of the professional cycling race. The 650-mile, eight-day stage race, modeled after the Tour de France, will feature 18 of the worlds top professional teams racing from San Francisco to Long Beach February 18-25. more >
More Pro Teams are Holding Training Camps in SoCal
1/16/07 - Health Net is not the only pro team holding their training camp in SoCal. Team Slipstream pb Chipotle (formerly TIAA/CREF) and Team Successful Living pb Parkpre have been getting in some quality time in the saddle near Borrego Springs and Mount Palomar. Just like a lot of Euro pros train in Mallorca every winter, it used to be that the US pro teams flocked to rainy Santa Rosa or Santa Barbara every February. Looks like the cat is out of the bag! Our great weather (although a little colder than normal) and variety of terrain offers the riders a great place to log in some miles and do some team bonding prior to the season getting underway.
Team Successful Living pb Parkpre log in some miles in the Anza-Borrego Desert.
photo © Ken Yamakoshi
The Road Race Season is Upon Us
Health Net Pro Cycling Team Training Camp in Temecula
1/13/07 - The three-time and reigning NRC champion Health Net Pro Cycling Team Presented by Maxxis will begin formal preparation for the 2007 Amgen Tour of California and full racing season with a team training camp in Temecula, in Southern California, January 25 through February 4, 2007. The riders will get down to serious training during the week of January 29 through February 2. Riders and staff slated for the Amgen Tour of California will compete in two races over the second weekend to get a bit more competition in their legs prior to the tour's start on February 18. This means that all of you local Cat 1,2 riders and 12 K Dreamers should prepare to get your legs broken at Boulevard and Red Trolley.
Kirk Willett Appointed to Team Director of Toyota-United
1/11/07 - Kirk Willett, a former professional cyclist and well-known team director, has been appointed Team Director of the Toyota-United Pro Cycling Team. Willett will join Harm Jansen on the frontlines to handle team logistics, day-to-day operations, race strategy, and overall management of team personnel. Willett began his cycling career in 1984 at age 14, gradually moving up the ranks to compete in the U.S. Olympic Trials and joining the pro-cycling elite as a member of the U. S. National team. He plans to merge his passions for cycling and science as a physician, and will graduate from medical school in 2011.
Schroeder Iron Sponsors Cycling Again
1/10/07 - After a three-year hiatus, the Schroeder Iron Corporation is once again sponsoring an elite cycling team. With experience running the highly successful Schroeder Iron Pro Cycling Team, the company's President and CEO, Frank Schroeder, is approaching this effort with a slightly different emphasis. The new team will be populated by vastly talented elite masters rather than pro racers. Schroeders intent is to develop a team that can give back to the sport by mentoring younger, less experienced riders. more >
Members of the Schroeder Iron Squad lead the Toy Tour in San Dimas, CA.
Photo: Demi Hechanova/SC Velo Cycling Club
Apple Introduces the iPhone
1/10/07 - Apple has introduced the iPhone, which is I believe is going to turn the cell phone industry on it's head. Okay, before any of you decide to email me and tell me that this is not cycling related, hold up a hot minute. Everytime I head out for a ride, I have an iPod in one jersey pocket and my cell phone in another taking up valuable pocket space. Good thing I don't go on super long rides anymore, or I might bonk since I can't carry enough food. Without being all techno-geeky, the iPhone is a stylish cell phone, iPod and internet device all wrapped into one that works with the touch of a finger. If that doesn't sound too exciting, then I suggest seeing it in action by watching the iPhone intro. It will set you back $499 - $599 and you'll have to use Cingular. I am now accepting iPhone donations, so I can free up some pocket space.
The iPhone is a must have item for all cyclists.
Southern Nevada Stage Race Cancelled
1/9/07 - Unfortunately do to circumstances beyond our control the Southern Nevada Stage Race will be canceled for 2007. All racers who have already registered will receive a full refund. I can assure everyone that this decision has nothing to do with the venue change or the municipalities. Everyone involved is very excited to put on the relatively new race and anticipate putting on the event for 2008. I am sorry for what ever inconveniences this decision may have caused. - Sincerely, Richard Craig, SNSR Race Promoter
Melinda Johnson (SDBC) and Tom Schwartz (UC Cyclery/JW Floors) riding
through the snow covered Laguna Mountains while on a training ride
from San Diego to Borrego Springs. photo © Ironstring.com
Long Beach Festival Weekend & Amgen Tour of California
1/9/07 - The Amgen Tour of California which includes over 120 of the world's top professional cyclists, many of whom compete in the Tour de France, will conclude its 650 mile tour through California with a 7 - 10 lap circuit race through the scenic, oceanfront streets of Long Beach and crown a winner on February 25, 2007. Additionally, an entire Festival Weekend of cycle friendly events will be held February 24th - 25th for fans and families in downtown Long Beach. There will be a weekend full of fun and family activities including extreme BMX and skateboarding, Fastest Wrench competition, and amateur races. schedule >
Team Velosport Cycling Club to Sponsor Team Velosport Racing
1/8/07 - Team Velosport has enjoyed tremendous success over the past 4 years, and its growth shows no signs of slowing down any time soon. As an Orange County cycling club, with a significant number of racers, Velosport has been very competitive at all of Southern California's races. Velosport has won numerous State titles on both the dirt and road. With over 300 members, and a newly formed race team Velosports future looks brighter than ever. more >
Floyd Fairness Fund Established
1/8/07 - The Floyd Fairness Fund has launched a web site with the goal of raising $ 2 million to support Floyd Landis in his efforts to clear his name of doping charges from the 2006 Tour de France. The Floyd Fairness Fund's mission is to provide Landis with the means to attain a fair and just hearing, to support Floyd Landis against unsubstantiated doping allegations, to provide the means to attain fairness for Floyd and to bring justice to those responsible for misconduct in the case. more >
The Imperial Classic Returns; Raffle to Win a Trip to Tour of CA
1/6/07 - This year's second annual Imperial Classic, sponsored by the City of Imperial and Rabobank has been moved up to February 10, 2007 so that southern California racers can get in some warm, tune-up racing. John Behrens of Celo Pacific will return to defend his title as winner of the Pro Cat 1-3 race. With Rabobank as a sponsor and CBR sanctioning the race, the Imperial Classic promises to be a profitable day for many riders. Check out Rabobank's offer to raffle a VIP trip to Stage 4 (Seaside to SLO) of the Tour of California. Tickets are $20 and proceeds go to a local cancer support group Cancer Resource Center of the Desert.
Cha-Ching! The Imperial Classic sponsored by Rabobank is back for '07.
Team Lipton Announces Roster
1/5/07 - LIPTON Tea reveals its commitment to health and vitality, with its continued support of TEAm LIPTON women's pro cycling and triathlon team for the 2007 season. With 580 days until the beginning of the Olympic Summer Games, TEAm LIPTON has assembled its roster and race calendar to focus on the Olympic Games. Team LIPTON is poised to dominate women's road racing and looks to build on a highly successful 2006 campaign that included a World Championship title, the National Road Championship title, the National Time Trial Championship title, the NRC overall Team title, over 35 wins and nearly 100 podium finishes. more >
The annual New Year's Day Ride rolls through Laguna Beach.
photo © Jim Parkhurst
Health Net to Ride Amgen Tour of California
1/4/07 - The Health Net Pro Cycling Team Presented by Maxxis will again be one of the professional cycling teams racing in the Amgen Tour of California, it was announced by Health Net of California and AEG, presenters of the 8-day, 650-mile road race. Health Net also will return as one of the event's "founding partners," which will include sponsorship of the Amgen Tour of California Lifestyle Festival presented by Health Net. more >
Team 5 Star Fish
1/4/07 - Team 5 Star Fish recently gathered for their first of two training camps in Paso Robles, California. The newly formed 11 man elite amateur squad stayed at the chateau of a local vineyard for team bonding and endurance riding, among other activities. A second training camp will be held in east San Diego County in mid-January. Several top Southern California amateur riders were chosen for the squad including six ranked in the top twelve in the Pro 1, 2 2006 SoCal Cup Cycling Standings. more >
Two World Champions Headline US Roster for Los Angeles World Cup
1/2/07 - Two reigning world champions highlight the U.S. roster as USA Cycling confirmed today the 18 Americans that will compete at the third round of the 2006-07 UCI Track World Cup Classics series at the ADT Event Center in Carson, Calif. January 19-21. Current individual pursuit world champion and American record holder, (Temecula, Calif.), will compete for her OUCH Pro Cycling squad and reigning time trial world champion on the road, (Boise, Idaho/Team Lipton), will ride for the U.S. National Team. The Southern California edition of the four-race international circuit represents the first world cup competition for each rider this season. more >
Happy New Year!
1/1/07 - We hope that 2007 brings you all the best in cycling and life!
