Cycling News
Amgen Tour of California Announces Additional Anti-Doping Testing Protocols
4/30/10 – AEG, with the support of Amgen and the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA), today announced additional testing protocols for the fifth annual Amgen Tour of California as part of the race’s comprehensive anti-doping initiatives. Designed to supplement the Union Cycliste Internationale’s (UCI) Biological Passport, a groundbreaking anti-doping tool based on the ongoing monitoring of a rider’s blood and urine, the race’s 2010 anti-doping program will include the following elements: more >
Radio Shacks's McCartney and Armstrong defendLeipheimer's lead at Gila.
photo © Mitchell Clinton / www.clintonphoto.com
NOW-MS Society Men Survive Epic 50+mph Winds at Stage 2 Tour of the Gila
By Kendall Seyer
4/30/10 - "This will be one they'll be talking about for years, one for the history books and a character builder for sure." ~Team Director Kurt Stockton, NOW-MS Society. The story today was the wind, a wind so fierce it made for an unbelievably tough day of epic proportions. "It was the windiest day of racing I have ever experienced," said Team Director Kurt Stockton, "on or off the bike." Kurt said the wind was blowing so hard at one point the riders were at a 45 degree angle struggling to keep their bikes upright and getting blown into oncoming traffic on the other side of the road. Fortunately cars yielded to the racers, some having to drive off the opposite side of the road. The NOW-MS Society riders battled through it all. The Pro Men race came apart in the first 10 miles. The first climb of the day was early on and with the wind being what it was, even a bike length gap was too much to bridge. Sergio Hernandez and Corey Farrell were close to the front and fought to stay with the main pack but when riders in front of them dropped back, there was no getting across even the smallest gaps. And yesterday's brutal mountain finish was replaced with today's brutal wind finish. Sergio and Corey were in a group of 25 riders that finished in the first group after the main field. Danny Heeley struggled with the altitude early on and after battling through the day, had to pull out just short of the finish. Luis Amaran of Jamis Sutter Home / Colavita outsprinted Levi Leipheimer for the win. Levi finished 2nd. There was a small break of about 9 in the Men Cat 2 race. Cory Greenberg performed well and finished in the second group after the leaders. Kit Karzen fought back after an early flat. He and Aaron Schneider also finished the epic day.
The peloton tackles one of the many climbs at the Tour of the Gila.
photo © Mitchell Clinton / www.clintonphoto.com
Ride with the Amgen-UBS Masters Team in the Breakaway Challenge
Elite masters cycling team challenges cyclists to ‘ride and raise’ for charity during ATOC
4/29/10 - For the 2nd consecutive year, members of the Amgen-UBS Elite Masters Racing Team will be riding stages of the Amgen Tour of California to help promote awareness and raise funds for Amgen's Breakaway from Cancer® initiative. Breakaway from Cancer® is a complimentary component to Amgen's sponsorship of the Amgen Tour of California to increase awareness of the important resources available to cancer patients, from prevention to education, and patient care to advocacy and support. To support this cause, the Amgen-UBS squad is reaching out to other California cyclists to ‘share a stage’ while getting in some great miles during the tour. Participating riders will be asked to raise charity funds in advance for the Breakaway campaign in order to participate. As in the past, riders will begin the stage route prior to the official stage start time with the goal to arrive at the finishing city in advance of the race. Follow support will be provided each day by Mazda team vehicles. The Amgen-UBS team members will be aboard team issued Specialized bikes rolling on Panaracer tires during the week’s 750 plus miles. Ride data from iBike cycling computers and summaries will be reported daily by Road Bike Action Magazine via their website. In addition, a full recap article of the fundraising event will appear in their June issue. "This is a great way for California's cycling community to get in some quality training while supporting Breakaway from Cancer, an important component to the Amgen Tour of California", says Malcolm Hill, member of Amgen-UBS. "Our racing team is part of the larger Amgen Cycling Club whose mission includes raising funds for our sponsor charities. We are challenging riders and teams to become part of the highest profile cycling event in the U.S. by participating in one or more of our stage awareness rides." Riders select which stage(s) they wish to participate. “The stage rides are not a race but we encourage participation limited to stronger riders to help keep the group together”, says Hill. “We hope to improve upon the funds last year and ask for a minimum $100 donation per rider for each stage. All funds raised go directly to the Breakaway partners”. A list of riders and teams participating in the Breakaway from Cancer awareness rides for each stage will be announced prior to the Amgen Tour of California. More information is available by contacting Malcolm Hill of Amgen-UBS Elite Masters at [email protected].
2009 Breakaway Challenge - Stage 7 to Pasadena
Leipheimer Wins the First Stage of the Tour of the Gila
4/28/10 - Levi Leipheimer won the first stage of the 24th SRAM Tour of the Gila from Silver City to Mogollon, which was 94 miles. With the start of the Tour of California two weeks away, Leipheimer is clearly doing more than a tune-up for California. Under the flag of Mellow Johnny’s, Leipheimer sprang from the pack on the final climb, just as he did last year. Second place went to Tom Danielson (DZ Nuts) and third to Cesar Grajales (OUCH-Bahati Foundation). Last year’s third-place finisher Phil Zajicek finished fourth. “Compared to last year it seemed more competitive," explained Leipheimer after the stage. “Dave Zabriskie, Tom Danielson and the others were all going well. The beginning of the stage wasn't bad but the winds picked up and made the race quite a bit harder. This may be only a race on the national calendar, but this victory proves that I've worked hard in the last weeks. I am on schedule for my first goal of the season, the Tour of California. After a useful break, it is always good to measure yourself against other riders. It is also good to get out there and into the routine of racing."
Cannondale and Bahati Foundation Auction Off Bicycle for Charity on eBay
4/28/10 - Cannondale Bicycles announced its continued support of the Bahati Foundation by donating a limited-edition bicycle to be auctioned off for charity. The Cannondale X Mike Giant Graffiti Bike is now available for bidding via the online auctioneer, eBay. The bike will be awarded to its new owner on the final day of the AMGEN Tour of California, May 23, 2010. All proceeds will go directly to the Bahati Foundation. The Bahati Foundation was created by 2008 National Pro Criterium Champion and eight-time national champion Rahsaan Bahati in November of 2009 and is dedicated to empowering inner-city youth through cycling, education, and music. “We are proud to donate this amazing bicycle to the Bahati Foundation to show our continued support for its mission,” said Frank Hwang, Director of Global Marketing for Cannondale. “Rahsaan Bahati has done so much for kids and communities, and we are happy to contribute in any way possible." This limited edition bicycle features urban-inspired aesthetics provided by legendary tattoo and graffiti artist, Mike Giant, and is a Cannondale SuperSix HI MOD frame/fork, 54cm, with Shimano Di2 drive train, custom Shimano Dura Ace wheels, PRO Vibe carbon bars, stem & set post, Fizik Aliante saddle, and Continental Grand Prix 4000 tires, just like the Bahati Team issue bikes. Spectators and prospective bidders can view the bicycle in person at the Tour of California, May 16-23, 2010. Rahsaan Bahati, who grew up in Compton, was able to escape the violence of the streets through his passion for cycling. Aiming to give back and bring the joy that he had discovered, Bahati developed the foundation to help new generations escape the plight that too often plague their daily experiences. To make a bid, please visit the auction on eBay.
Cannondale X Mike Giant Graffiti Bike
Second Women’s Prestige Cycling Series Race Begins at Tour of the Gila
4/27/10 - The Women’s Prestige Cycling Series resumes this week when the 24th annual SRAM Tour of the Gila begins Wednesday in Silver City, N.M. Ina-Yoko Teutenberg (HTC-Columbia) leads the individual and sprint competition but is not among the 75 women registered for the five-day National Racing Calendar event. However, second-placed individual Katharine Carroll and her Peanut Butter & Co. TWENTY 12 teammate, Mara Abbott – who leads the best young rider competition – are part of the field. Abbott won the Tour of the Gila in 2007 and Peanut Butter & Co. TWENTY 12 currently leads the Women’s Prestige Cycling Series team competition. ”The SRAM Tour of the Gila is a great addition to the Series,” Women’s Prestige Cycling Series co-founder David LaPorte said. “Kristin Armstrong’s team, Peanut Butter & Co. TWENTY 12, is fielding a very impressive squad, but they’ll face tough competition. The event will also get a lot of attention because Lance Armstrong (no relation), known to women’s racing fans as ‘the other Armstrong’, is participating again this year.” Four events in four different states comprise the Women’s Prestige Cycling Series. It began at the Redlands Bicycle Classic in March. Still to come are the Nature Valley Grand Prix, June 16-20 (Minnesota) and the Bend Memorial Clinic Cascade Cycling Classic, July 20-25 (Oregon). The Series awards the top overall individual, best young rider, best sprinter and top team. Clothing manufacturer Champion System provides special jerseys to identify the leaders in the individual classifications.
NOW-MS Society's Kendall Ryan Rides to a Top-10 Finish in Gran Premio Liberazione
By Kendall Seyer
4/27/10 - This weekend, Kendall Ryan raced the famous Gran Premio Liberazione, her first of three races in Europe with the US National Team. Out of 120 riders, Kendall came in 10th and was the highest placed American. This was also Kendall's first international elite-level UCI race. Chasing breaks and patrolling the front, Kendall and her teammates battled through the extremely fast race alongside the 2009 World RR Champion Tatiana Guderzo, the Italian RR Champion Monia Baccaille, and the Italian Giorgia Bronzini who won the GP Liberazione last year (and in 2007). The Gran Premio Liberazione is a fast 120km race through narrow streets in Crema, Italy. It is one of the cycling events over the weekend to celebrate Festa della Liberazione, Italy's Liberation Day (April 25th), a national public holiday that marks the anniversary of the defeat of Nazi domination and an end to WWII in Italy. When confirming her results, Kendall got a good laugh, "I counted that I was in 9th place at the finish, but I checked the results after the race and I was 10th and a USA National team rider from Spain. In fact all of our riders were from Spain. We fixed that we were from the US, but I was still in 10th. Oh well, still a great finish for me!" And also a great relief for the future of US cycling that Kendall won't be changing her nationality anytime soon. Next up, Kendall and the team will compete in a 4-day stage race in Czechoslovakia.
The peloton splits the crowd on a climb through Luxembourg at Liège-Bastogne-Liège.
photo © Tim de Waele
Fly V Australia’s Lill Wins Overall, Tanner takes Final Stage at La Vuelta de Bisbee
4/25/10 - David Tanner conquered the grueling Tombstone stage of La Vuelta de Bisbee that included the 1,800-metre Mule pass. In a day that team Fly V Australia were focused on supporting and protecting Darren’s overall lead, Tanner played the role of helper and winner with aplomb. Tanner was joined in the break by teammate Charles Dionne while they not only ‘policed’ the riders in the break but also positioned themselves to take out the stage win. Darren Lill was well supported by climbing sensations Phil Zajicek and Jai Crawford who were at the GC leaders side throughout the race. With ten kilometers to race attacks started coming from the leading group of around 10. By this time the stage at 135 kilometers and with significant climbing began to take it’s toll on the riders. Tanner and Dionne were well positioned for the difficult run into the finish. The culmination of a tough stage was evidenced in the leading groups progress to the finish with the riders in ones and twos and gaps opening. Tanner won from Mathis (AXA equitable) at 2 seconds with a further 2 seconds back to Fly V Australia teammate Charles Dionne. Lill said after the stage, “Going into the stage I only really had to watch Kilun (United Healthcare) and the tour was ours. Having Charles and Tanner in the break took some pressure off, we just ensured that the Peloton remained at around 2 minutes to the break and the race was ours.” Lill went on to say, “We head straight to the Tour of the Gila from here and I am looking forward to the race very much, not only do we approach Gila with a great Team but our spirits are high after our results here at Bisbee. We also have the added benefits of Lance Armstrong and his team competing which should add to the difficulty and challenge of the race.”
Jens Voight (Saxo Bank) climbs up the steep Mur de Huy at Flèche Wallone.
photo © Sjar Adona
USA Cycling Fines Bahati in Dana Point Grand Prix Incident
4/24/10 - After an investigation of an incident at the Dana Point Grand Prix, USA Cycling has fined Rahsaan Bahati for violating rule 1Q2a, or unsportsmanslike conduct. Following standard procedures, the national governing body opened an investigation after claims of misconduct were reported at the USA Cycling National Racing Calendar event. The incident stemmed after a crash that was caused by United Healthcare’s Jake Keough that took down Bahati as well as 20-30 other riders with three laps to go. On the next lap, Bahati threw his sunglasses at Keough after feeling the crash was intentional. After the race, Bahati apologized for his actions. USA Cycling’s CEO Steve Johnson said, “We take all claims of misconduct seriously. All cyclists racing on our premier domestic calendar should be cognizant of their behavior and strive to set the example for our youth.” We are waiting to hear back from USA Cycling to see if the investigation is closed and if there will be any disciplinary action against Keough, as well. (update - according to USA Cycling, "The process has run its course and the Dana Point matter is closed.") Let us know your thoughts on our Facebook Page >
Bahati and Keough prior to the crash at the Dana Point Grand Prix.
photo © SoCalCycling.com
The Mt. Whitney Stage Race Offers Two Days of Scenic Riding and Climbing
4/22/10 - AntiGravity Cycling proudly presents the 25th Mt. Whitney Stage Race, to be held May 15-16, 2010. The Mt. Whitney Stage Race is sanctioned by USA Cycling for licensed racers. Non-racers will also be timed and will have the chance to win merchandise prizes given away in drawings. All riders will enjoy the amazing scenery along the way. Riders who finish both stages will earn the coveted finisher’s pin. The Mt. Whitney Stage Race is two days of racing through the scenic mountains of Inyo County featuring some serious climbing. Stage 1 starts out in Death Valley, and riders will leave at the first light to try and beat the inevitable heat. After an extended climb, a long descent takes us to the Panamint Valley. Another long climb, followed by a shorter descent, gets us into the Owens Valley. Then Stage 1 finishes with a long flat section just outside Lone Pine. Stage 2 meanders around the Alabama Hills for a gentle warmup, then ascends to the Whitney Portal. 14,500’ of climbing in just over 100 miles total for the weekend. The Death Valley to Mt. Whitney Stage Race was once a regular feature on the SoCal racing calendar, has been missing for a few years. Now it is back, and we want to make it bigger and better than ever! The traditional May dates are intended to be late enough so that the snow will be gone from the Whitney Portal Road, but early enough so that the Stage 1 start will be reasonably cool. But anything can happen, so riders should bring a variety of clothing in case of unexpected weather! We expect that it will be cool at the early morning Stage 1 start, and hot most of the day. Stage 2 starts later in the day, so it should be warm, but it is often chilly at the Portal on even the warmest days in the valley. Drop bags will be carried to the Portal if you want to pack something warm to wear on the descent and hot food will be available at the summit to fight off the chill. Riders do not need a team support car to ride any of our events, or even to race competitively as there are Aid Stations that are well stocked with food and drinks and noone will get left behind. Volunteers are needed, if you would like to help out, drop the race director a line at [email protected]. Volunteers will earn ride credits to ride a future event for free!
The Pro 1/2 podium at the inaugural De Vlees Huis Ronde Road Race: 1st Carson Miller,
2nd Cody Stevenson (Adageo Energy Pro Cycling), 3rd Brian McCulloch (Pull Thru Racing).
photo © Sam Ames
World Champ Cadel Evans Wins Flèche Wallonne
4/20/10 - World Champion Cadel Evans scored his first win for the BMC Racing Team and made history with an impressive victory. Evans overtook Tour de France champion Alberto Contador with a perfectly timed attack on the steep uphill drag to the finish on the Muy de Huy. “I thought with 500 meters to go he (Contador) had it but it’s not the first time I’ve done this race and I used it to my advantage today,” Evans said. Joaquin Rodriguez (Katusha) was second and Contador (Astana) held on for third. Evans becomes the first Australian to win an Ardennes Classic and the first reigning world champion to win Flèche Wallonne since Belgian Claude Criquielion in 1985. Evans, who had previously finished second (2008), fifth (2009) and ninth (2005) at this race, said reviewing the finish climb Tuesday was key to his victory. “Director Sportif John Lelangue took us out for reconnaissance and I saw the climb from a different perspective,” Evans said. “I realized I had always raced it with the wrong tactic. Today I had good position right from the start, but waited until the last 100 meters. That was the way to do it.” The BMC Racing Team was without Karsten Kroon for the finish. The Dutchman crashed into a guardrail in a massive pile-up with 70 km to go. Kroon suffered multiple fractures (broken nose and broken cheekbone) but no head trauma. He was to be treated and released but will not compete Sunday in Liège-Bastogne-Liège.
Cadel Evans (BMC Racing Team) does not seem to be cursed by the rainbow
jersey as he flys up the Mur de Huy on his way to winning Flèche Wallonne.
photo © Tim de Waele
Grand Prix Events Announces Thursday Night Criterium Series at Great Park Irvine
4/20/10 - Grand Prix Events (Ladera Legs) announces the start of a new weekly Criterium series located at the Great Park Irvine. The Series will start Thursday April 15th and go through September. Racing starts at 6:00 pm and will be on the tarmac on a 2.5 mile 7 turn coarse. Grand Prix Events is working with VNC Racing & CBR (California Bicycle Racing) to run the event management and licensing of the event. Categories include Pro 1, 2 & 3, 40+ and Cat. 4/5 and if there is enough demand they will offer a junior Criterium racing during the summer months. The Criterium Series Main Sponsor will be Rock N Road Cyclery. Rock N Road Cyclery has four state of the art bike shops in Orange County with there flagship store just down the road from the event location in Irvine. They will offer support at all the events and Rock N Road’s cycling club Velosport will also be a large component of the event. Grand Prix Events (Ladera Legs) are the same promoters that bring you the Ladera Ranch Grand Prix Criterium. The Grand Prix is entering into its 4th year and plan on using the Criterium Series to help build upon that event. The Grand Prix has always been a charity driven event and the Criterium Series will follow suit. Ryan Miller Co-owner of this event has partnered with RAHA Sports; the managing group that handles the Bahati Foundation Pro Cycling Team, this event will be the same and give the proceeds to the Bahati Foundation.
Martin Adamczyk (SoCalCycling.com) and Carmen Small (Colavita-Baca)
endured the grueling Sea Otter Road Race in the Monterey area.
photo © Mitchell Clinton / www.clintonphoto.com
Bazzana and Kersten Continue Fly V Australia’s Winning Streak
4/19/10 - Ben Kersten racing alongside teammate Alessandro Bazzana have taken 1st and 3rd respectively at the Sunny King criterium, race one of Speed Week. Racing under lights in Anniston, Alabama the race got off to a cracking start and by halfway a group of 20 (including both Kersten and Bazzana) had lapped the main bunch. The racing was aggressive with the major teams well represented in the break that lapped the field. In the final laps there were many attempts to try and prevent a sprint finish. Ben Kersten said, “Once we took the lap, I was motivated for a sprint finish and Baz and I worked well together to ensure we arrived with the group. In a testament to how well Baz is riding right now was that not only did he lead me out perfectly but he also held on to finish third.” Hilton Clark (Bahati Foundation) finished in second. After spending the previous night in support of teammate Ben Kersten, Alessandro Bazzana enjoyed the freedom that next day’s punchy Foothill Road Race offered. After 80k of pristine rolling country roads Bazzana broke clear of the peloton and was joined by Cesar Grajales (Bahati Foundation), and Matthew Crane (United Healthcare) with 20 kilometers to race. Five kilometers later, Crane succumbed to the pressure being applied by his breakaway companions and was dropped leaving Bazzana and Grajales to ‘two up’ to the finish. The chasing peloton failed to make a dent on the leaders position through the last 15 kilometers of rolling terrain leaving the two leaders to contest the finish. It was Bazzana who had too much speed for Grajales, prevailing in the two up sprint, with Crane holding on for third. Bazzana said, “I felt really good this morning when I woke up. I wanted to ride in the front and then in the break. This course is tough and fairly selective and I knew that a break would go. I am very pleased for myself and my team.”
Team Bissell dominated the road race at Sea Otter
photo © Mitchell Clinton / www.clintonphoto.com
Jorge Alvarado Memorial Fund Fundraiser
As many of you know, we lost fellow cyclist Jorge Alvarado in a tragic car / bike accident last Thursday. SoCalCycling.com and the Bahati Foundation have set up a Memorial Fund Fundraiser to assist with the costs of Jorge's funeral and his travel back to Mexico, so that he can be with his family before he is laid to rest on Saturday. To donate, just click on the ChipIn button below. Any amount is appreciated to help us reach our goal. Thank you in advance!
4/17/10 - Update: A huge thank you to everyone that donated to Jorge Alvarado's Memorial Fund. We have exceeded our goal and raised $6,620 in just three days to assist Jorge's family with his funeral costs. Your kindness and generosity are greatly appreciated during this sad time.
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photo © Brian Hodes / Velo Images
De VLEES HUIS Ronde Road Race Brings the Classics to SoCal
4/16/10 - The 1st Annual De Vlees Huis Ronde Road Race will be held this Sunday April 18th in Bakersfield. Race Directors Sam Ames and Ryan Rickard report the course is prime, all systems are in place and it should be an awesome day of racing. The 30 mile loop features one good, steady climb, several short punchy, twisty climbs and a nice long flat before the finish hill…all the ingredients for a Classics style race. If you are planning on race day OR pre-ride reg, please check in with Sam to confirm slots are still available in your race. The race organizers/local club are holding a pre-ride Saturday morning at 9am at the venue, a casual dinner Saturday night and both offer you the chance to get your number and avoid the lines Sunday. Look for some fun…Flanders flags, unique trophies for the winners…and look for the old slaughterhouse on the loop, our inspiration for the name…what an epic race this is shaping up to be! Don’t miss it. more info >
Video: Dana Point Grand Prix Pro Race
4/15/10 - Watch Jonathan Cantwell (Fly V Australia) win the Dana Point Grand Prix in a sprint finish, as well as the podium celebration and Dave Towle interview Cantwell after his victory.
Palmdale to Replace Pasadena as Start City for Stage 6 of ATOC
4/14/10 - The City of Palmdale, in the Antelope Valley of Los Angeles, will serve as a host city and be the location for the Stage 6 start of the 2010 Amgen Tour of California, AEG, presenter of the eight-day cycling road race, announced today. The May 21 stage start had to be moved from Pasadena due to road closures on the Angeles Crest Highway caused by recent fires and subsequent mudslide damage to the route. The fifth-annual event, which will once again have a world-class field of competitors, including three-time defending champion Levi Leipheimer and seven-time Tour de France Champion Lance Armstrong, will take place from May 16-23. Palmdale City Hall will serve as the backdrop for the most difficult stage in the five-year history of the Amgen Tour of California. After a five-mile neutral section heading south on Sierra Rd., the route makes a left turn onto Angeles Forest Highway. Facing the riders is the imposing San Gabriel mountain range, and within a few miles the first of seven KOMs will be crested. After a blistering descent from Mill Creek Summit, the route turns to Upper Big Tujunga and then onto Angeles Crest Highway. From there, the riders continue on a 135-mile odyssey with more than 12,000 feet of climbing. The race will climb to a high point of nearly 8,000 feet as it rolls along the Angeles Crest Highway. Then, there is a brief respite as they descend to Wrightwood and over to Highway 138. The route again ascends as it passes through Crestline and Lake Arrowhead, as the cyclists take to the “Rim of the World” highway. Entering the Big Bear area, the riders will take the northern route around Big Bear Lake and then tackle the last rise to the finish at a more than 7,000-foot elevation at the Snow Summit ski area for the Amgen Tour of California’s first-ever alpine finish. Let us know your thoughts on our Facebook Page >
Amanda Miller (Tibco) soloed to a win at the Sea Otter Crit and Waylon Smith
represented the SoCalCycling.com Elite Team on the Laguna Seca Raceway.
photo © Mitchell Clinton / www.clintonphoto.com
Riding as a Team at Dana Point GP
By Kendall Ryan of the NOW-MS Society Elite Women's Cycling Team
4/14/10 - The Dana Point Grand Prix Pro womens criterium went off at 2:00pm Sunday afternoon. Our NOW-MS Society U25 squad: Julia Lafranchise, Jennifer Johansen (Jenjo), Jenna Kowalski, and I were hungry for success. All the riders gathered up to the line to start the race. The chief official said the rules of the race and asked, "Are there any juniors present?" I raised my hand along with Coryn Rivera, Alexis Ryan, Tara McCormick, and fellow teammate Ivie Crawford-- the most juniors I've raced with since Road Nationals last year. It was great to see more juniors racing up in category races. The official had us ride backwards on the course to junior roll out near the wheel pit. more >
Kendall Ryan takes the podium at the Dana Point Grand Prix.
Video: Dana Point Grand Prix, Crash Takes Out Bahati and Many More
4/13/10 - By now you have heard the story about the crash involving Rahsaan Bahati (Bahati Foundation) and United Healthcare's Jake Keough. Now you can see how it transpired and the aftermath at around the 40 second mark. Let us know your thoughts on our Facebook Page >
Cantwell and Ryan Win at the Dana Point Grand Prix
4/12/10 - Jonathan Cantwell displayed grit and tactical prowess to position himself out of harm and in the best possible position to win the Dana Point Grand Prix and to also win the first National Racing Calendar (NRC) criterium of 2010. The race started after a minute of silence and a lap of honour for Jorge Alvarado (Bahati Foundation Racing Team) who was tragically killed in a car/bike accident in the days leading up to the event. Cantwell said, "The pace was on today, we saw that Rahsaan Bahati attacked from the start and it really didn't let up from there. We lost Kersten and Brooks in that crash with three laps to go so I just had to focus on my position from there. Cantwell went on to say, "You really needed to be at or very close to the front coming out of the last right hand turn. From the front you have to go full gas to the finish. I was actually third out of the last corner with the two Jamis riders in front of me. The road opened up on the right and I had the speed and momentum to come over the top and take the win." Junior rider Kendall Ryan (NOW-MS Society) won the women's race with a fast sprint outkicking Maria Lechuga (Helen's Cycles) who was second and Coryn Rivera (Peanut Butter and Company) in third. The Amgen-UBS Master's Team took top honors with Chris DeMarchi winning the 35 + and Rich Meeker sprinting to victory in the 45 +.
Fly V Australia's Jonathan Cantwell outsprinted the Borrajo brothers
(Jamis-Sutter Home) for the win at the Dana Point Grand Prix.
photo right © Mitchell Clinton / www.clintonphoto.com
Audio Interview with George Hincapie on Paris-Roubaix
4/10/10 - George talks about his 17th start at Paris-Roubaix, why he loves Paris-Roubaix and his change in personality for this race. Audio Interview with George Hincapie >
Horner Wins Overall Title at Vuelta al Pais Vasco
4/10/10 - Three Team RadioShack victories in one week; veteran Chris Horner is responsible for two of them. Horner, 38 won the last stage, a 22 kilometer time trial, as well as the overall title in the Tour of the Basque Country. After having won 16 professional stage races in America and Asia during his career, Chris Horner won his first European stage race by taking the final victory in the challenging Vuelta a País Vasco (April, 5th-10th). "Last year I just missed the victory in the Tour de l’Ain, because of respiratory problems. Earlier I was close too in the the Tour de Romandie and the Tour de Suisse. Now finally I am on the highest place of the podium. Seventeen stage race wins is not bad, but I think this is the nicest one," commented a delighted winner. more >
Horner won the Overall Title at the Vuelta al Pais Vasco.
photo © Graham Watson
Bahati Racing's Jorge Alvarado Tragically Killed In Car / Cyclist Accident
4/9/10 - Jorge Alvarado was tragically killed yesterday morning at 9:52 am when he was struck by a car on Greenspot Road in Highland, CA. Jorge, 27, had just signed on as a member of the Bahati Foundation Elite Cycling Team. Prior to riding for the Bahati Foundation Elite Cycling Team this year, Jorge was also a team member of Kahala LaGrange, as well as IE Bikes Racing/CA Pools.
San Bernardino County sheriff's deputies have determined that Patrick Roraff, 18, of Highland and a passenger were street racing at speeds at over 70 mph with two other motorists. Roraff lost control of the car when trying to pass the cars and struck Alvarado, where he died at the scene. The crash is still being investigated at this time and criminal charges are expected to be filed.
Jorge was a bright star in SoCal’s cycling community and had a big future in the sport of cycling. His potential was unlimited and in the past month you could see a glimmer of his talent as he rode off the front in several break away moves in the San Dimas Road Race and Criterium, Redlands Criterium and Easter Sunday Grand Prix, as well as winning the UCLA Road Race last Saturday. Jorge was scheduled to race in the Dana Point Grand Prix this weekend, where a moment of silence will be observed before the start of Men’s Pro Race on Sunday. At the commencement of Sunday’s race, the Bahati Team will lead a neutral first lap, in honor of Jorge.
Condolences can be left on Bahati Racing’s Facebook Page. SoCalCycling.com extends our deepest sympathy and condolences to Jorge's family, friends and to the staff and team at Bahati Racing.
Bahati Racing's Jorge Alvarado was a bright star who will be missed.
photo left © Brian Hodes / Velo Images
photo right © Mitchell Clinton / www.clintonphoto.com
Kenda Cup West Series Heads to Santa Ynez
4/9/10 - The fourth round of the Kenda Cup West Series presented by Specialized rolls into the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley this weekend. Nestled just north of the Danish town of Solvang, the Santa Ynez Valley venue has hosted several National events over the years, and this will be the second year that the Kenda Cup West Series returns. Additionally, this weekend’s race will also serve as the second round of the H2O Overdrive West Regional Triple Crown for Pro riders. The west coast regional triple- crown format is being run as a beta test for possible implementation across the country for 2011, with the three disciplines factored into the series format. The goal is to target more regional and local pro’s by offering good payout, with stronger competition in their respective region. The Santa Ynez cross course is a 9.1 mile loop and offers riders nearly 1200 feet of climbing per lap. The course is deceivingly hard, with short, steep climbs and fast sinewy descents. A mixture of double track, single track and fire roads, set against green rolling hills and vineyards, makes the venue a favorite among racers. Recent rains have left the cross country course tacky and in good condition for Saturday and Sunday’s events. Current Kenda Cup West Series men’s Pro leader Sho-Air/Specialized Sid Taberlay is slated to attend, while the women’s Pro series leader is Pua Sawicki, fresh off a podium at the Fontana City National two weeks ago, looks to make it a go for the weekend. Trek/Canada’s Adam Morka makes the trip this weekend to compete, as well as the southwest top local and regional pro competitors.
Bahati Foundation Partners with DPCCF and Boys & Girls Club of Capistrano Valley
4/8/10 - The Bahati Foundation is pleased to announce the partnership with the Dana Point Community Cycling Foundation (DPCCF) and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley. The Foundation is excited about working with these two great organizations in association with the 2010 Dana Point Grand Prix of Cycling. The Bahati Foundation in a non-profit organization with a mission to provide opportunities for inner-city youth through the sport of cycling. The Foundation will coordinate a group of inner-city youth from the Los Angeles area to this year’s DPCCF event.In conjunction with the Boys and Girls Club of Capistrano Valley, the Bahati Foundation and the DPCCF will offer local youth and the Bahati Foundation kids two full days of excitement centered on the Dana Point Grand Prix. The goal is to experience a new environment, the beauty and nature of Dana Point, make new friends from the Boys and Girls Club, while introducing them to the sport of cycling through the Dana Point Grand Prix. Motivational talks, safety programs, nature hikes, ocean awareness, and participation at the Dana Point Grand Prix highlight the weekend’s festivities.
2010 Cannondale Super Six Hi-MOD Review
by Frank Sarate, SoCalCycling.com
4/7/10 - Cannondale has been perfecting their top end road bike, the Super Six HI-MOD, for the last few years. ProTour team, Team Liquigas-Doimo, has put the Super Six HI-MOD to the test in some of the toughest races in the world while receiving feedback from some of the world's best riders including, Ivan Basso, Vincenzo Nibali and Franco Pellizotti. The 2010 Super Six just got a whole lot better, as Cannondale has raised the bar once again.
Upon receiving the Super Six HI-MOD frame to build up, the first thing I noticed when lifting the frame out of the box was just how much lighter it was the 2009 Super Six. It is 150 Grams lighter right off the top from last year’s model, which is a huge weight savings from the already light 2009 Super Six.
I find it amazing that the Cannondale engineers are able to lighten these bikes up each year. Cannondale is able to achieve weight savings by using a unidirectional fiber throughout the frame, maximizing the anisotropic properties of the carbon fiber. The frame is also lighter due to the monocoque front triangle and the chain and seat stays that are molded onto the front triangle separately, without the aid of any lugs and are over-wrapped in multiple directions. Full Review >
The SoCalCycling.com Elite Team is riding Cannondale's Super Six HI-MOD.
photo © SoCalCycling.com
Amgen Tour of California Stage 6 to be Rerouted due to Storm Damage
4/7/10 - "Due to severe road damage on the Angeles Crest Highway (Route 2) above La Cañada Flintridge caused by the recent winter storms, we have been forced to change the route for Stage 6 of the 2010 Amgen Tour of California. This change is being made at the direct request of Caltrans, which has notified us that due to the potential safety hazards, the road will be unable to accommodate our race. Stage 6, scheduled for May 21, 2010, will no longer start in Pasadena and we are working to secure a new stage start, which we are hopeful of announcing in the coming days. Stage 6 will still finish in Big Bear Lake as planned and we look forward to a challenging stage in the San Gabriel and San Bernardino Mountains. As long-term partners with Pasadena, we appreciate how graciously they have handled this difficult situation. We look forward to returning to Pasadena soon.”
Lance Armstrong Forced to Drop Out of Circuit Sarthe Due to Illness
4/7/10 - Lance Armstrong did not start the second stage of the Circuit Sarthe - Pays de la Loire (France). Armstrong came down with a viral intestinal infection after the conclusion of Stage 1. He will return to the US as soon as his condition allows. Many riders from different teams caught the virus last week in Flanders. Five from the eight Team RadioShack riders who participated in the Tour of Flanders came down with the virus including Geoffroy Lequatre, Dmitriy Muravyev, Gregory Rast and Sébastien Rosseler. Also Team Manager Johan Bruyneel and a soigneur are affected. "This is not the right moment, but it is never a good moment", commented Team Director Alain Gallopin. "Though we have only four riders left in this race, we will try to win a stage. Tiago Machado and Yaroslav Popovych are in good shape. Let's hope Popo will not get sick. He too was in Flanders last week. As far as Lance Armstrong is concerned, maybe we will have to change his program again. That's work for the coming days. Lance was really keen on performing well, especially in the time trial of Wednesday afternoon. He showed his growing condition in the Tour of Flanders, where he came in with the first group sprinting for the fifth place.”
Amgen Tour of California Announces Teams
4/6/10 - One of the strongest and most talented fields ever assembled for a U.S. cycling race has been invited to the upcoming 2010 Amgen Tour of California, AEG, owner and operator of the eight-day event announced today. With the race’s move on the calendar to May, a compelling set of teams has been invited to the fifth-annual race. The 16-team field will be comprised of a collection of the world’s best international professional cycling teams, along with a selection of top North American-based teams. The teams will be led by prominent UCI ProTour and Pro Continental teams, such as the three-time defending champion Levi Leipheimer and seven-time Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong’s team RadioShack; 2009’s No. 1-ranked Team HTC-Columbia, featuring sprint sensation Mark Cavendish; powerhouse Team Saxo Bank, featuring Tour of Flanders winner Fabian Cancellara and Tour de France runner-up Andy Schleck; Liquigas-Doimo, an exceptionally promising young Italian team; Colorado-based Garmin-Transitions; and BMC Racing Team, featuring current U.S. Pro Champion George Hincapie. The more than 800-mile, eight-day stage race, modeled after the Tour de France, will take the world’s top professional cycling teams from Nevada City to Thousand Oaks/Westlake Village/Agoura Hills from May 16-23. The 2010 Amgen Tour of California roster includes the following 16 professional cycling teams: Bissell, BMC Racing Team, Cervélo TestTeam, Fly V Australia, Garmin-Transitions, Jelly Belly pb Kenda, Kelly Benefit Strategies, Liquigas-Doimo, Quick Step, Rabobank, Spidertech pb Planet Energy, Team HTC-Columbia, Team RadioShack, Team Saxo Bank, Team Type 1 and United Healthcare pb Maxxis.
Hincapie Finishes Sixth At Tour of Flanders and is Ready for Paris-Roubaix
4/4/10 - George Hincapie of the BMC Racing Team registered his sixth top 10 result at the Tour of Flanders Sunday with a team-best sixth-place finish in the Belgian Classic. Hincapie was in a group that crossed the line three minutes after Fabian Cancellara soloed to win the 262 km race. The three-time U.S. road champion and the rest of the field lost contact on the ascent of the Molenberg, inside of 40 km to go. “The team did a good job,” Hincapie said. “I’m confident for next Sunday. I had good legs and felt good all day. I can improve until Paris-Roubaix.” Hincapie’s other top 10 placings at Flanders (Ronde van Vlaanderen) are third in 2006, fourth in 2002, fifth in 2008, seventh in 2005 and 10th in 2004. BMC Racing Team Director Sportif John Lelangue said he was pleased with the teamwork that helped the team’s four leaders (Hincapie, Alessandro Ballan, Marcus Burghardt and Karsten Kroon) make the initial selection. “Then in the final selection of the group of 13 we had George and he was doing well,” Lelangue said. “Looking at the results, we were fourth last week (Gent-Wevelgem) and sixth today, so we are coming into a good position for next weekend with Paris-Roubaix – where I think George will be one of the main contenders.” Audio Interview with George Hincapie >
