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WORTHY CAUSES
On the
Cover
Renold Yip, formerly a bike mechanic in the Mid-Atlantic, won several awards at the Handmade Bike Show in Richmond. Photo by Erik Lokensgard
an evening at one of America’s finest minor league ball parks (with fireworks and we get to throw out the first pitch), an evening out on the town (in historic downtown Frederick), various tours (including a Civil War museum) and product samplings from locally made apple products, to Frederick beers and wines.
ever since my bike club stopped hosting an annual cycling weekend in Frederick County, Maryland, I’ve lamented the loss. Wonderfully entitled the Frederick Fall Foliage Frolic (FFFF) this weekend was something I looked forward to every year, and that was at a time when I did not even live in Frederick. The FFFF experience was one of many reasons I used in deciding to move from the DC metro area to Frederick County. It gave me a chance to experience this wonderful part of America as a cyclist. Clearly, I fell in love with what I saw.
Oh yes, then there’s the biking. One day, we’ll visit Frederick’s famed covered bridges, and on another we’ll have the option of climbing Sugarloaf Mountain. I see the Tour de Frederick as a chance to host a weekend long cycling party for cycling friends. Yes, we will also be making a significant charitable contribution as a portion of our proceeds, so a worthy cause is also involved.
For at least the past 10 years, I’ve been trying to convince various bicycling event promoters to create a replacement weekend event for Frederick, without any luck.
I hope you can make it. We are limiting registration to keep it, shall we say “intimate.” I want participants to have ample opportunities to get to know one another.
So this year, this is my “ah ha” moment. SPOKES Magazine along with Fairchild Controls of Frederick is proud to announce the inaugural Tour de Frederick bicycling weekend, August 13-15.
Check it out at www.tourdefrederick.com
My wife thinks I’m nuts, inviting a couple hundred cycling friends for a weekend. But what else is new? If an important aspect of life isn’t about creating new adventures for your family and friends, what else is there?
Happy trails,
I see this as an opportunity to show off the place I love and call home. I’ve already lined up a bunch of fun things to do when we’re not riding our bikes, such as
Neil Sandler Editor & Publisher
page
6
april
2010
Touring • Racing • Off-Road Recreation • Triathlon • Commuting SPOKES is published monthly eight times a year — monthly March through September, plus one winter issue. It is available free of charge at most area bicycle stores, fitness centers and related sporting establishments throughout Maryland, Virginia, the District of Columbia, and parts of Pennsylvania, Delaware and West Virginia. Circulation: 30,000. Copyright©2010 SPOKES. All rights reserved. No reprinting without the publisher’s written permission. Opinions expressed and facts presented are attributed to the respective authors and not SPOKES. Editorial and photographic submissions are welcome. Material can only be returned if it is accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising which may be inappropriate to the magazine’s purpose.
Editorial and Advertising Office: SPOKES 5911 Jefferson Boulevard Frederick, MD 21703 Phone/Fax: (301) 371-5309 GRAPHIC DESIGN Studio 22 www.studio20two.com
EDITOR & PUBLISHER Neil W. Sandler neil@spokesmagazine.com CALENDAR EDITOR Sonja P. Sandler sonja@spokesmagazine.com
www.spokesmagazine.com
Frederick de
presents
Tour
Legendary covered bridge ride Fireworks night at Frederick Keys baseball game Tour famous local brewery
August 13-15, 2010
the best of
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April 20010 Visit us on the web at www.tourdefrederick.com for more information - registration is limited!
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Richmond’s Handmade Bike Show Draws Thousands
6
April 2010
Photo by Neil Sandler
Photos by Doug Graham
The North American Handmade Bicycle Show, sponsored by Shimano, was held on the East Coast for the first time, Feb. 26-28 at the Greater Richmond Convention Center. Event organizers were not sure what kind of turnout to expect, but with nearly 7,000 paying visitors they left very satisfied, vowing to return to the mid-Atlantic again soon. Visitors got to see the handicrafts of 130 exhibitors. A few local builders won top honors in their divisions. Renold Yip, who several years ago worked as a mechanic and bike fitter at All American Bicycles in Damascus, Md., won the top honors for “The Best City Bike” and “People’s Choice” Award. See the adjacent feature story on Yip. Aaron Dykstra, owner of Six Eleven Bicycles in Roanoke, Va., won “Rookie of the Year.” (We’ll be doing a feature of Dykstra later this year.) Six Eleven Bicycles is named after a famous steam engine built in Roanoke, Va. Dykstra said “this bicycle is inspired by the aesthetics of the 611 steam engine, which is the pride of Roanoke. It seemed fitting that I should make it a track bike, and I’ve added a small grill to the top of the head tube, and the serial number plate is derived from the train, too.” Bilenky Cycle Works of Philadelphia, owned by Stephen Bilenky, won “Best Road Frame.” In business for 30 years, Bilenky is renowned for his custom tandem bikes. His award winning bike is an old French style tandem, using modern geometry and updated components. For more on the winners log onto www.handmadebicycleshow.com
>>>
“People’s Choice” Renold Yip by brenda ruby bruby@verizon.net
A few of the nearly 7,000 area cyclists who attended the North American Handmade Bicycle Show in Richmond, Va., the last weekend in February may have recognized Renold Yip from his years as a mechanic and bike fitter at a Maryland bike store.
In June 2006 Yip and his wife moved again, this time to Fort Collins, Colorado where he started offering his YiPsan Bicycles in 2007. Yip notes, “While I started building frames in 2005, the practice of two years was very important to me and my customers.” Working alone, creating about 15 custom bikes a year, Yip explains that his process really starts with the non-artistic stuff (i.e., fit). As he says, “A custom bike that does not fit is simply a piece of metal decoration. Having the fit right is crucial.” This information, along with other important factors such as riding purpose, terrain it will be used on, and desired handling traits are used for designing the bike. Working with steel exclusively using traditional lug or fillet brazed construction, Yip makes all styles of bikes (road, cross, randonneur, touring, commuting, and off road) as well as custom stems, forks, racks, and seat posts. Yip notes, “Only after these functional aspects are taken care of can we look into the more artistic side.” Take, as example, the award-winning Sunflower bike. Created for Tom and Danielle Rinker, owners of Bicycle Escape in Frederick, Md., Yip worked closely with Tom Rinker to achieve not just a bike that fit, but one built on Rinker’s artistic vision. Rinker knew Yip from working with him at All American and already owned a few of his bikes saying, “I knew him when he was making frames on the side and when he started selling them commercially I had confidence in them because I knew Renold and I know he’s meticulous and comes to it from an engineering background.” Rinker adds, “His bikes have a nice balance. We’ve talked about this often. He gets the functional art aspect of it. Some bikes are more art than function, but that’s not what he’s about—he’s 100% about what the bikes supposed to do.” What Rinker needed he says was a “mommy bike.” “My wife just had a baby about eight months ago and we didn’t have in ideal ‘mommy’ bike for biking around town.” Danielle Rinker had suggested a stock hybrid, but for Tom who considers bikes to be “a beautiful artistic expression of something I love,” that just wouldn’t do. The only desire Danielle Rinker had was for the bike to be inspired by a sunflower; Tom notes that it’s meaningful to them and made perfect sense. Rinker contacted Yip and got the process going.
but clearly today most were totally mesmerized
by the bikes he now handcrafts one by one from his workshop in Colorado.
There’s no doubt that when you’re looking at a handmade bike, you’re looking at a work of art, but for Renold Yip the functionality of his bikes is the art. Fit, ride quality, and design for application are at the heart of YiPsan Bicycles. Winner of the “Best City Bike” and “People’s Choice” awards for his Sunflower Bike presented at the 2010 North American Handmade Bicycle Show, Yip’s creations stand out as moving masterpieces. Building frames since 2005, YiPsan Bicycles was conceived as a way to continue the craft of frame building in a single-person workshop. Started in 2007 on his philosophy of “modern fitting concepts, modern materials, traditional techniques,” he builds with mostly hand tools; his only power tool is the hand drill. As he says, “It’s not the most efficient way, not the quickest way, but it’s the best way to put your ideas and details into a hand-built bike.” Trained as an engineer, not an artist, Yip received a degree in Manufacturing Engineering from the
University of West of England in Bristol, England. He returned to his native Hong Kong and pursued a career in this field, then as a quality management system consultant until moving to Seattle in 2002 for his wife’s job. Not just her “arm candy” as he jokes, this is where he first delved into working with bikes as a career, forming a home-based bike repair service. Yip saw it as a service to the community and says he “learned a lot about American cycling habits.” Though it might seem like a complete departure from his previous life, Yip says he first started to play with bikes when he was a teenager taking apart and putting together his BMX bike. Another move in 2003 brought Yip to Maryland where he worked at All American Bikes in Damascus. Yip worked there through 2006, honing his skills as a mechanic and fitter. During this time Yip began to tinker with building frames and eventually went to the United Bicycle Institute’s (UBI) frame building school in 2005. He then upped his skill set by training with Serotta Bicycles at their New York factory and became a certified bike fitter.
Both being bike fitters, Yip and Rinker speak the same technical language and with those specifications taken care of, they could explore the bike’s artistic features. Yip notes that those generally come across in “mostly the paint scheme, but also on the metal work I would consider adding features—a one-off cable hanger, the seat stay cap finishing, or lug shapes and cut outs.” Rinker says that designing bikes is something he enjoys and used the sunflower as inspiration for the bike’s yellow and cream palette noting, “If you look at the bike you’ll see that the center of the wheels are black, like a sunflower.” Beyond the paint job, Rinker wanted a unique bike basket which he needed to convey to Yip. “In these areas I usually ask for a free-hand drawing,” Yip says. With Yip’s craftsmanship and Tom’s vision, the end result is a flower-patterned wood mosaic and the Rinkers couldn’t be happier. To Rinker, “The Sunflower bike is a functional piece of art—the crank is customized, the chain guard looks classic with modern influences. We picked colors and components that flow together.” To his wife, Danielle, who was kept mostly in the dark until the final unveiling, “It’s perfect.” To Yip, it’s what custom hand built frames are all about saying, “The artistic features can transform a seemingly common looking bicycle into a one-off, a personal,
people's continued on p.8
April 20010
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people's continued from p.7 special, and in many occasions, the talking point in the future. Since my bikes are all built with a specific rider in mind, these one-off features also create a special connection with the owner of the bike.” Yip believes that a custom bike is the ultimate choice for fit and function. “While a production bike is very rideable and may fit most riders relatively well, a custom bike will fit 100%. Plus the tubing size is also chosen individually for each customer so it is optimized for its design, not just geometrically allow the rider to position well, but also allow the bike to respond as desired with the input from the rider.” Drive train response and handling are two of the key areas where customers can express their desires. Yip also notes that being a certified fitter allows him to communicate on the same level with other fitters and the results obtained from a fitting session. Rinker believes that this is one thing which sets Yip apart saying, “We do a lot of custom bike fits [at Bicycle Escape] and Renold is very meticulous when it comes to the fit and that’s important to us. He understands the language of the fit and can make the bike to very specific specifications.” While the process generally takes a few months and a few thousand dollars (Rinker estimates $3,500 and up), Yip says “his customers are cyclists who can appreciate the finer details and subtle differences. They appreciate the connection with the one person who has built the bike from start to finish and they value the fact that the bike is made with heart and designed with them in mind.” He adds, “They’re passionate about cycling and appreciate the technical expertise required to make a bike and have it function as desired.” Danielle Rinker (and son, Geoffrey) and her sunflower bike
Yip also believes that “in supporting custom bike builders, clients are supporting a small crafts person operating a small business which, in many ways, can hopefully revive what is left of manufacturing in the U.S.” Yip is passionate and marks each of his creations with his distinctive logos, a circle and a square design. Yip explains, “The circular one is a stylized version of my last name, in simplified Chinese. It’s tradition to put ones last name on items that they are proud of; it’s quite similar to the use of the coat of arms. The square one simulates an approval stamp used by ancient kings to signify their approval of policies and legislature. The meaning of the four Chinese words is ‘hand made in steel.’”
“i'd like to ride
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Schedule a tune up or personal bicycle fitting session! matt mcgoey, owner & michael brennan, service manager
ALL AMERICAN
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On the subject of meaning, Yip’s father named him Renold after a famous motorcycle chain maker (oh yeah, Renold made bicycle chains, too!). Yip explains, “He believed that a motorcycle chain is small in size, but very efficient and important to the operation of a motorbike.” So yes, this bike maker was, oddly enough, named after a famous chain.
“People’s Choice” and “Best City Bike”
Of the future, Yip believes growing and improving is a never-ending process. “Just because one customer is happy doesn’t mean the next one will be.” You can see Yip’s creations in person at the Bicycle Escape in Frederick, and maybe, if you’re lucky, you’ll catch a glimpse of the distinctive Sunflower bike around town.
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serving cyclists since 1994 26039 Ridge Road (Route 27), Damascus, MD 20872
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April 2010
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Family Bikes at Handbuilt Bike Show by kevin brugman kbrugman@cox.net
As one of the SPOKES writers who went to the North American Handbuilt Bicycle Show, (NAHBS) in Richmond, Va., the last week of February, I was amazed at the wide range of bikes at the show. For a while I thought that I might have to send a cleaning crew after me to clean up all the drool I was leaving.
i went there fully expecting to see a bunch of high end, superlight racing bikes, and I was not disappointed. But I also saw a lot of other bikes as well. There were a lot of city bikes and touring style bikes. What I did not expect to see at the show were very many families wandering through the aisles. Fortunately I was mistaken and saw a good number of children and none of them looked bored silly or like they were being forced to attend by a bicycling parent. One of the families that I talked to was Jim nd Shelley Burns and their two children from Midlothian, Va. Jim and his son Brennan are both big into bike
racing. Brennan started racing this year and has been hooked. One of his biggest supporters is his sister who is not into racing, but along with her mother cheers her dad and brother along.
enjoying the sport. Dave has found that riding along the W&OD trail is a good opportunity to ride with his family while he prefers longer roads. I thought it was great to see both families exposing their children to such a wide variety of biking options and the high quality of bikes available. I also had the opportunity to talk to Dwan Shepard, one of the founders of Co-Motion Bicycles. A few years ago Co-Motion brought out the Perisocope model in both a tandem and triple option. The beauty of the Periscope is that the stock model will fit stokers down to 3’ 6” while the captain can be over 6’ tall. When I asked Dwan what inspired him to design such a bike, he shared that between himself and his partner, Dan Vrijmoet, they have three children that they want to bicycle with. Dwan has been riding with his daughter since she was 3 ½ years old. Since the Periscope did not require any modifications, he simply slowed down the cadence to accommodate her. Another option is to put on crank arm shorteners to accommodate their shorter legs. His daughter is now nine and this past year they participated in two tandem races together. One of the things that Dwan acknowledged was that while they try to keep the Periscope a reasonable priced bike, they know that the cost of the Perisocope can be daunting to some families. But by keeping the quality of the bike high and fully capable of supporting stokers of a wide variety of sizes the Periscope can grow with the family and be a life time investment.
I also ran into Dave Wolcott who was there with his wife and triplets. They had come down from Leesburg, Va., to see the show. I asked the kids if they had been dragged along or if they wanted to come. The kids assured me that they had wanted to come and were having fun. In contrast to the Burns, the Wolcotts did more riding as a family along the W&OD rail trail, which is near their home.
Speaking of Family Cycling
Of the many things that both the Burns and the Wolcott’s shared was their interest in good quality bikes. Dave said that the kid’s bikes from Spokes, Etc or any of the quality bike shops in the area had proved to be good for kids at each progressive stage of riding. His son recently did a Cub Scout requirement for bike safety which was a big success and helped kids learn about bike maintenance, safety, and
patches of ice out and then lots of rain. So if I cannot be out biking and want to be more productive than just dreaming about biking, it is fun to read about biking. (Yeah, I know, I should be down cleaning up the bikes getting them ready for spring.) One of my favorite authors about biking is Joe Kurmski, and he has just released his latest book, Mud Sweat and Gears, about riding with his wife and three boys across Canada the summer of 2008.
By the time this issue of SPOKES hits the streets, the weather will be much more conducive to biking. But when I was working on this article, there were still
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Joe had big plans of co-writing this with his wife as they took off on their triplet, pulling a Burley Tag-along and a child trailer behind that, an 18 foot long contraption of rubber and steel. The first trip out with that train quickly changed his mind of everyone riding as one big happy team. While they were one big team, happy was not in the description. Joe described his first outing with the rig as being “terrified at the molecular level” and while he initially thought the soundtrack would be along the lines of “Bicycle Built for Two” he instead envisioned “Crazy Train” by Ozzie Osbourne. But this first try had been their maiden attempt and maybe it would be better with the bikes fully loaded with touring gear. Joe soon explains that wishful thinking does not make things so and he soon found himself white knuckled fishtailing down the trail. He soon confesses to his wife that they will not be able to ride like this and to her great relief, she will not have to get back on the triplet and will have to ride the single alone. Still Joe will be captaining a tandem, pulling the Tagalong, pulling the trailer. The other thought of co-writing the book is soon dashed as well. Instead of reading a chapter of Joe’s thoughts followed by a chapter of Beth’s thoughts, the entire book is written with a plentiful number of footnotes by Beth. I can easily imagine a conversation going on where Joe is telling a story while Beth frequently interrupts to give her interpretation. But it works; I just wish we could have gotten some foot notes from the children. Speaking of children, for anyone that has read Joe’s earlier account of riding across the U.S. with his two boys, Quinn and Enzo in “Momentum is your Friend,” there is now a third boy Matteo riding along in the trailer.
The book covers the start of their trip on Vancouver Island and then their journey north along the Pacific coast half way to Alaska and then head east. One of the things that happens along the ride is how Beth turns from a casual biker into a fully fledged touring cyclist. Anyone who has done cycling touring soon finds out that their appetites become almost insatiable. Riding day after day for 80 to 100 miles expends a huge number of calories. Soon Beth is learning how to eat like a cyclist to keep up her strength much to the entertainment of those around. At one truck stop where they stop for supper, there is one of those gastronomic monstrosities that if you can eat by yourself in one sitting you get a prize–here it is the “Trucker’s Dream”. When Beth goes off to clean up, she tells him to order the same thing as he gets for himself, so Joe orders two Trucker’s Delights. When it comes, Joe describes it as: “Three thick slabs of meat—roast beef, Salisbury steak maybe and something else unidentifiable—formed the foundation of the Trucker’s Dream. Gravy formed an adhesive layer between each course. Sitting atop the meat slabs were three over-easy eggs, gravy, three cuts of breakfast ham, gravy, three massive mounds of mashed potatoes, each with its own pool of butter but—in a delicate artistic decision— no gravy. Instead cheese formed the adhesive. In the same dollop shape as the potatoes there were scoops of canned veggies. Then those crazy bastards behind the grill went for broke: Gravy secured a hamburger to the center of the veggie mountain and lettuce, tomato and pickles reached for the heavens from the patty. In a whitecapped peak of mashed potatoes on either side of this spire stood toothpick flags of the Canadian maple leaf and Old Glory.”
Both Joe and Beth finish off their plates to applause from the entire restaurant and earn the prize, truck mud flaps adorned with naked ladies. While Beth may have become a cyclist, she still keeps her dignity and tells Joe to get rid of them. But Quinn gets it right when he exclaims: “I kinda like this dump.” To be fair, the family never quite makes it all the way across Canada on the bicycle. In Saskatoon they catch a ride to Nova Scotia and the Cape Breton Cabot trail. This book is a good read for both cyclists and non cyclists alike. While most of the stories use cycling as a background, the heart of the stories is Joe’s ability to make the reader sympathize with the characters that they meet on the road, whether it is how they help bring hope back to a lady that is just trying to hold on by running a small restaurant in the middle of no-where or a performance artist that sets up his bike stand in galleries and does bike repairs as art in Nova Scotia. They purposely left the cell phone behind. Like Alexander Graham Bell who built a home in Cape Breton to get away from everything, Joe and Beth document how they went on this trip to leave behind the hustle and bustle of everyday life and a family trying to get away from the intrusions into their lives and spend time with each other. At the very end of the book, the very last foot note in the book shares that Joe and Beth are expecting baby boy number four! I just found out from Joe that Sawyer Ray Kurmaskie was born on March 7, 2010.
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A Legendary Stretch of Beach Cycling by jeff evans
The eyes of cycling enthusiasts all over country were turned when Delaware was named one of the top ten bicycle friendly states by the League of American Bicyclists in 2009. This honor makes it the highest ranked bicycle friendly state in the Mid-Atlantic. while many mid-Atlantic cycling enthusiasts already know about the wonderful cycling to be had in Delaware, with the state’s ascension into the top ten ranking, Delaware is becoming a new destination for cyclists nationwide. At any glance of the second smallest state in the Union, you will quickly find the beaches of Delaware that boast 28 miles of scenic coastline. Delaware is only a few hours’ drive from the urban corridors in and around Washington and Baltimore. Along the Delaware coastline between Dewey Beach and Fenwick Island there is a stretch of road that summarizes the experience of cycling at the beach. Used by recreational cyclists, families, triathletes and racing clubs, these miles boast historic monuments and beautiful landscapes from ocean to bay. It can be fast and furious, but always stunning especially at sunrise or set. This section of Coastal Highway is flat, fast and straight and will make any cyclist, regardless of their skill level, drool. With much of the land undeveloped, you will likely get a glance at native wildlife and the beautiful natural habitat that the area offers. From spring to fall, cyclists from all over can be seen trying to keep the pace with friends or tracking down the pack ahead. You will see riders of all skill levels but if you are looking for some fun competition you better get out there early. “Nothing is more rewarding than driving to the beach late on a Friday night so you can get the early morning ride. The sun is rising, seagulls are out and the ocean air gets you going,” says Mark Evans, a lifelong visitor to Bethany Beach. Friendly and serious competitors alike, most riders love to hit this stretch early in the morning as they try to beat their personal best.
Bikes, Bands & the Bay Festival
To u r d e C h e s a p e a k e
all new for 2010
may 14-16
Don't miss this fun-filled weekend of pleasurable bike riding, great music, and water activities that embrace the scenic beauty and precious ecology of the bay. It's the perfect springtime weekend getaway.
Friday Evening Music and Fiesta Dinner | 4- Mile Family Fun Ride Suited to Young Riders Full Tour Routes from 12-80 miles long | Green Education Exhibits and Farmers Market Evening Bluegrass Concert | Rider's Recovery Yoga Cyclist for the Bay Ride on Sunday | Guided Canoe Trip provided by Chesapeake Bay Foundation
Registration open now!
Visit www.bikechesapeake.org for more details. 12
April 2010
For longer distance rides, most cyclists start at the beach but head inland. Coastal Highway is a beautiful stretch but there are so many hidden gems as you head inland. There are several state parks and wildlife refuge areas that enable you to see the beauty on the back bays and miles of open farm land. Rick Hundley, a local cyclist, told SPOKES: “What makes the beach such a great place to ride is not only its beauty but it’s awesome roads. You can ride Coastal Highway with its’ wide shoulder or you can take it to the curvy back roads which tend to have little traffic. By heading inland you can rack up the mileage while seeing a different side of the area often missed by the average visitors.” In the past, the majority of riders along the coast were visitors visiting during the popular summer months. With the growth of cycling across the nation, Delaware’s local cycle community has expanded as well. Hundley recently launched his own cycling group, Baja Beach Cycling, named after his restaurant in downtown Bethany Beach. With the growth of local groups, cycling has grown to a year round activity at the beach. While the new distinction from the League of American Bicyclists has garnered Delaware some new found attention, it has always been a great oasis for cyclists. Whether a novice or an old pro, the Delaware beaches offers unique terrain and scenery that will satisfy every rider.
Track Day at Summit Point Want to ride the track on which local race car drivers hit 200 mph? Here’s your one and only chance to do with without a car in sight. The Panhandle Pedalers Cycling Club (PPCC) has teamed up with Summit Point Motorsports Park in the eastern panhandle of West Virginia, near Harpers Ferry, W. Va., and Winchester, Va., to present the first-ever Track Day, where anyone in the community is welcome to bring their bike and ride on the Jefferson Circuit, one of three race tracks in the sprawling facility. The event will be held Saturday, April 17, (rain date is Sunday, April 18), from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and is free to the public. Local bike shops will provide on-site mechanics, demonstrations and items for sale, and everyone can enjoy the bike show where vintage through modern bikes will be on display. The Jefferson Circuit is a seven-turn, 1.12-mile (1.80 km) road course that was designed and built by Bill Scott, owner of the Summit Point Motorsports Park. There are straights, turns and switchbacks, along with elevation changes, and best of all, the track will be open to cyclists only so they can experience the safety of open road biking without the threat of automobiles. Mountain bikers are also welcome to explore the off-road trails that begin next to the Jefferson Circuit parking area. For those interested in a different challenge, two extra-curricular, scenic rides that begin and end at the park entrance are being tentatively scheduled for 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. “Anyone who wants to ride their bike but has concerns about car traffic on the roads needs to come experience Track Day at Summit Point,” Josh Hughes of PPCC told SPOKES. “This will be a great event for the whole family.
It's not a race, so participants can ride as fast or as slow as they please and never be more than a half-mile behind. It’s a great place to learn about cycling or just have a lot of fun. “There are no worries about knowing the route, missing turns or being left behind, because no will can get lost,” say Hughes. “And if you don't have a road bike, there are several off-road dirt trails right beside the Jefferson Circuit we'll be riding on.” “This is an opportunity that could redefine cycling in our area,” adds Hughes. “The possibilities are numerous for future cycling events at Summit Point Motorsports Park. It’s the perfect facility for cycling races, clinics to teach cycling fundamentals, bicycle rodeos for the kids, and mountain-biking events on the off-road trails. With the other racing activities, karts and amenities at the track, it’s a venue many people could enjoy.” Jens Scott, general manager at Summit Point Motorsports Park, is equally pleased about the opportunity. “It opens up the possibilities of our facility to other concepts. Racing is not all that we do. We do firearms training and extensive driver training...why not bikes?" he says. “It’s also the first green event that we’ve ever had here,” says Scott, “since it will be emissions-free.” “I'm looking forward to watching the mountain-bikers jump down the crater. We have something we call Mars 2, which is a big hole in the ground, if they want to try it out,” he adds. A meet and greet begins at 8 a.m., with riding beginning at 10 a.m. until dusk. Guests are encouraged to bring along a picnic lunch, and grills will be available during lunch hours.
PPCC is a local cycling club that was formally organized in 2009 by a group of cycling enthusiasts. The goal of the club is to promote and encourage bicycling in the community for all levels and types of cyclists. The club is involved in a wide range of cycling activities including weekly rides to scheduled events. Visit panhandlepedalers.com for more information or to become a member. Print out the flier at panhandlepedalers.com/TrackDay and receive $10 off a round of karting at Summit Point Kart. To be eligible, persons must be 16 years or older and provide valid ID. Summit Point Motorsports Park is a road racing and driver training facility located in Jefferson County, W.Va., approximately 75 minutes west of Washington, D.C. Owned and operated by Summit Point Automotive Research Center (SPARC), the facility features three road racing circuits that are currently used for amateur automobile, kart, and motorcycle racing, high performance driver education and security driver training. Bill Scott, 1970 Formula Vee World Champion, purchased the fledgling racetrack in the 1970s and has since turned it into a premier racing and training venue.
21st Annual Ocean To Bay Bike Tour
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Bethany Beach, Fenwick Island, Selbyville and surrounding areas.
Ride the Beaches, Bays and Beyond! Open to cyclists of all ages and skill levels!
Rest Stops with beverages, lite snacks and drinks. Choose a 25-, 35-, or 50-mile route.
Presenting Sponsor
Start and finish in beautiful downtown Bethany Beach! Pre-registered riders receive a commemorative long sleeve t-shirt. Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce 36913 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, DE 19944 800-962-SURF (7873) • info@bethany-fenwick.org
REGISTER ONLINE! www.TheQuietResorts.com
April 20010
13
spokeswomen by
brenda ruby bruby@verizon.net
Fly Me to the Moon Biking is fashionable, we all know that. It’s in, it’s cool, it’s green. That’s, of course, not why we ride, but since we’re suddenly so hip we may as well, look it, right? If your idea of bike riding and fashion involves occasionally matching your socks to your jersey, read on. On my visit to NAHBs (the North American Handmade Bicycle Show) in Richmond this February, there was one person in particular stealing the show—Sheila Moon. As one of the few female vendors, she was attentiongetting to begin with, but her self-titled line of bicycle apparel clearly resonated with attendees who constantly packed her booth—the clothes were literally flying off the racks. While she showed fun and colorful arm warmers, cycling basics, and more traditional bike wear, it was the bike clothing that looked like it could do doubleduty in the boardroom (lined jackets with articulated elbows and tweed cycling britches, really?!) that got everyone’s attention. Even the less fashion aware, myself included, couldn’t walk by without noticing and thinking, “ohmygodthatissocute!” This couldn’t please Moon more whose mission to bring fashion to the world of cycling apparel is being met with open arms. An Oakland, Calif., resident, Moon began her business in 2003 and hasn’t looked back. With over 100% growth in the first three years, even Moon is shocked that her first fashion line is bike wear. Inspired by her grandmother, Moon has been an avid
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www.bicyclefun.com 14
April 2010
seamstress since childhood and went to school for fashion design. “I’ve always loved high fashion and beautiful tailored clothing.” But it’s a tough business and Moon became disgruntled with the industry and her work as a high fashion and pattern designer. She decided to take time off to race and train. That’s right, Moon’s other passion is biking. Athletic through high school, Moon began racing bikes 15 years ago. Today she sponsors her own teams (road, mountain, and cyclocross) and, these days, loves cyclocross. Noting that women in cycling was skyrocketing, putting two and two together, Moon saw that she could fill a need saying, “I started seeing people on bikes wanting to look normal and I thought ‘Why be normal when you can be extraordinary?” It was a tough sell at first—bike shop owners doubted her clothing idea and said it wouldn’t work. As Moon says, “Most of the shops are owned by bike-loving men and they don’t understand women; they don’t see what I see; they weren’t out there.” But with her initial stunning success, starting out with just hats and arm warmers and a few commuter pieces, she says, “It didn’t take long for them to catch on and realize it was important.” As Moon was finding her niche, her reputation was spreading. Moon’s experience as both a clothing designer and biker sets her apart from other companies that make women’s clothing. While most companies will “make something a little shorter and a little smaller” and label it ‘women’s,’ Moon is keenly aware of her two advantages: “I’m a trained pattern maker designing it all myself and I’m a woman who rides bikes, so I under-
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stand what needs to happen—how women are shaped and how the clothing needs to work.” With the popularity of the Tweedy rides increasing (it started off in London a few years ago and the D.C. area just had their first one this past fall) in which people dressed to the nines casually cycle through town, one wonders if Moon’s line is inspired by this movement. But Moon sees those rides more as an evolution to what had already been started. Since, as she says “high fashion tends to be a few years ahead of society,” she was a bit ahead of the curve. Drawing her inspiration from high fashion she says she spends much of her time perusing fashion magazines “seeing what’s out there” adding, “I have always loved a tailored look. That’s why I wanted to do commuter stuff.” She believes that bicycles are hot and bicycle fashion is cool and that “utilitarian” clothing is not nearly sexy enough when people from Tokyo to Copenhagen and London to New York are sporting their bicycle like the latest fashion accessory. While the high fashion maven in Moon absolutely sees this as the future saying, “I would love to break out and be in Barneys. I could absolutely see it,” she knows that the idea of fashionable bicycle wear will take time. As more and more people “go green” she believes that bicycle fashion is the next logical progression. She doesn’t mind being on the cutting edge of cycling attire and believes she’s uniquely situated for the job. Moon says that, “Bicycle clothing is evolving and selling the clothing is an education process.” Moon creates two lines a year and is involved in a few fashion shows, including Portland Fashion week. She says, “In the winter my retro-grouchy cyclocross roots come out and I do really great wool/fleece blend garments—base layers, hats—one of my favorites is the Euro cycling cap with a brim and earflaps so it keeps you nice and warm.” Not just a favorite of hers, but different blogs have sung the praises of that best-selling cap (one of the very few unisex items in her line) and her clothing in general noting it’s “Euro-punk flavor” and “kicky designs.” One of those “kicky” things? Lace. As Moon says, “Of course you have to have matching base layers and just because I like women, we have to put a little feminine touch on things.” The men don’t get left behind either. Offering the same base layers “without the lace, of course,” she says, “Our most popular men’s garments are the riding britches with the ultra-suede butt seat so you don’t destroy your pants, big pockets for U-locks, pockets for cell phones and other items, and they’re made of a cotton/lycra fabric so they stretch nicely and they have articulated knees to make for easier pedaling.” While her “boardroom” clothing of twill and wool jackets with features like reflective zippers, britches with reinforced butts, and skirts are all built for ease of cycling and fashionable fit, she says it’s her active wear that’s her bread and butter. Again, she covers the basics, but in her own unique way with a spring line showing a retro-mod look that could literally go from the bike to a swinging dance. Funky patterned pieces are balanced out by the clean, pared down designs of others—a little something for everyone. For Moon it’s not just about looking cute or even selling clothes. Her life, her work, her clothing, are not a reflection of a trend but rather the forefront of them. She’s cutting edge in her approach—“always made in America,” every item is created in artisan sewing factories right next door to her studio in San Francisco— and her attitude—she wants to show people that you can integrate biking into your life, in whatever form you want, be you a racer or commuter. She’s inspired and inspiring when she talks about the possibilities saying, “It’s exciting to be on the edge of evolution; trying to get people out of their cars is as green as you can be.”
R Egis T E R TOday /// ms aNdyOU. ORg/B ikE
bike ms
BEyONd ThE BElTway jUNE 12–13, 2010 // 1 OR 2 days // 30 TO 150 milEs Bike ms 2010: imagine yourself hERE
ThaNk yOU TO OUR spONsORs
big wheel bikes
bmx mid-atlantic by
brian caron coolbmx2c4me@aol.com
Photo by Marty Wastler
Martinsburg WV Opens Indoor Park The Berkley County, West Virginia Parks and Recreation board recently cut the ribbon on a new indoor BMX/ Skatepark in Martinsburg, W. Va. The Skatepark is easy to find, located just off of Route 9 about two miles East of I-81. The park is open to skateboarders, in-line skaters, and BMX riders of all ages. The park had been in the planning and development stages for over a year. It came together as a cooperative effort between The Parks and Recreation Board, Roach Energy (who owns the building), and a substantial private donation from the Beth Jacob Congregation, a former Jewish Community Organization whose assets, totaling over $130,000, were distributed specifically to recreational and educational facilities in the Martinsburg area. The generous contribution will help defray the startup cost which included purchasing the ramps and making improvements to the building. "We have about $100,000 invested into this project," said R. Stephen Catlett, who is the Executive Director of the Berkley County Parks and Recreation Board. "We've needed a facility like this in our community for a long time," he told SPOKES. The park officially opened on December 2, 2009, through a cooperative effort of the local community and several volunteers who helped with designing and construction of the park. The estimated budget for the park is approximately $3000 per month, and with admission and membership fees it should be selfsufficient for the year-long lease agreement between the county and Roach Energy.
Jamie Hess, owner of Groove Merchants Bike Shop located on North Queen Street in Martinsburg, is very excited to have this facility right in his own back yard. He's not only a local bike shop owner but an accomplished rider as well. He organized a group of local enthusiasts to help with design and construction of the park. "I'm super excited," Hess said about the local park's opening, adding that the closest indoor park is nearly 80 miles away in Baltimore. This author was able to check out the park first hand between the many snow storms we experienced this winter. Despite the frigid temperatures and impending sleet and snow that Thursday evening in January, there were about 30 riders ranging in age from 8-38 years old. Of course, I had the privilege of being the oldest rider in attendance, which is not unusual, since the average age of local riders is about 20.
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Drop in and check it out next time you're in Martinsburg; who knows, maybe a local rider will use this park as their launching pad into the next X-Games or Dew Sports Tour. And you can say you knew them when! For more info or directions to the park, check them out on the web: http://www.mbcparks-rec.org/ skatepark.html; or by phone: (304) 264-4842
The Columbia BMX Rematch It's not unusual these days to see a full gate of 40+ year olds lined up racing BMX at a local BMX track. The sport has been around since the late 1970's and some BMX families have second (and even third) generation BMX racers. Of course the dads can't just cheer from the sidelines, and it's usually not too long before they're dusting off their old bikes, if they had the foresight to save them, or looking into getting themselves a new BMX bike.
Although he didn't do as well as he would have liked that first day out, he was hooked! He became a regular at his local track for the next three or four years, rising through the ranks and eventually getting a factory sponsorship from Hutch Bicycles in 1981.
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Walter Holda was one of those dads who had raced back in the day and was curious about the current BMX scene was like a few years ago. Walter started racing when a friend of his talked him into taking his tricked out moto-cross style Schwinn Sting-Ray to a local BMX track in 1979.
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Hopefully, with a little luck and enthusiastic word- ofmouth the park will attract riders from all over the area and continue to improve and expand. Everyone involved in the project is confident that it will prove successful enough to grow into the adjoining warehouse and provide even more square footage of extreme obstacles.
On the other hand, there may not be children involved at all. It may just be a former BMX'er reliving his youth and rekindling the spirit of competition when they happen upon a local BMX track. Being involved in BMX racing directly for the past 10 years as a track director, and a "bike guy" all of my life, I've had the opportunity to see more than few racers reliving their BMX racing roots through their kids or even seeking out tracks specifically for themselves to see first hand, how the sport has evolved.
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The well-lit, heated building is a welcome change in that most low-budget parks are lacking in these departments. The ramps were well- constructed, prefab units for the most part, and the layout made it possible for several people to ride without being in each others way. Most riders favored the wall ride and spine ramps, but also regularly launched over the 8 ft Jump box as well. Plans are already in the works for a bigger quarter pipe and vert wall, adding even more lines and variety to the park's existing layout.
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Fast forward to 2007 when he not only introduced the sport to his five year old twin boys, but began racing again himself. It has since become a family affair for Walter and his twin boys, Brady and Brandon who race on a regular basis at both local and National events. Walter's wife Debbie and their daughter Elizabeth share in the excitement attending races with the "Holda Boys" and cheering them all on. Walter has built up a retro-style GHP cruiser that
bmx continued on p.18
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April 2010
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bmx continued from p.16 sports some Gold anodized wheels, reminiscent of the style of the 80's. Enter Wayne Racine, a 40-something year-old who appeared out of nowhere at a local BMX practice session late in the summer of 2009. It was obvious it was not his first time around a BMX track but I didn't recall ever seeing him at our track. I caught up with him later that night and got acquainted after striking up conversation about his Campy Hub Equipped BMX cruiser. As it turns out Wayne had recently moved to the area and found our track on the internet.
The interesting twist to these stories is that you may notice both of these riders began riding about the same time period in the same area. In fact, they both began racing at the same BMX track in Columbia, Md., where they raced each other on a few occasions. Obviously their lives led them in different directions over the years but in September of 2009 these two riders lined up in the gate together in the 40-45 cruiser class some 27 years later! They raced as hard and fast as they had when they were teenagers, sharing highfives at the finish line this time.
Photo by Marty Wastler
He returned to the East Coast in the late 80's and raced at Columbia BMX after almost 10 years. Racine's racing interest crossed over into mountain bikes and downhill racing for a few years in the mid 90's netting him some impressive finishes at both cross-country and downhill events. Over the years Wayne has had the opportunity to rub elbows with not only world class BMX riders on and off the track. He became friends with Gary Fisher, who lived in his neighborhood during the late 1990's. Gary set him up with a new Fisher BMX cruiser and uniform, adding to his growing collection of bikes and gear. Wayne worked in the bicycle industry during this time which gave him the opportunity to meet Tour De France winner Greg Lemond, who shared a few beers as well as a few of his many crazy cycling stories. Wayne made a BMX comeback in 2006 winning a National race in Abbotsford Canada after recovering some near-career ending injuries!
Photo by Marty Wastler
Wayne's BMX roots were pretty deep as he gave a brief summary of his BMX and MTB racing career that led him around the entire country. As it turned out his racing career began in 1977 at Columbia BMX, the first BMX track in Maryland. That was just a springboard for a racing career that netted him several titles throughout the years. He placed fifth at the Team Murray World Cup held at the World's Fair in 1982. Won an A Pro National in San Diego in 1985.
Walter Holda with his daughter, Elizabeth
Since then they have continued to race each other in the 40+ cruiser class, still feeding off each other's energy and enthusiasm for the sport. I was glad to have the privilege of being a part of this Columbia BMX rematch and it's good to know the sport of BMX continues to entertain and bring people together in ways other sports can't!
2010 BMX Season Preview Needless to say, this winter took its toll on local BMX venues. It's always nice to have some snowfall to put some moisture in the ground for spring track overhauls but there is a point where too much of a good thing can hinder things a bit. Most tracks were struggling to organize and hold meetings concerning the 2010 season amidst all of the excessive snow storms that continually hit the area during January and February. Most tracks will be looking forward to the spring thaw so they can get the snow cleared off of the tracks and get down to business. One of the big changes in the area for 2010 is Virginia's Hampton Supertrack has switched national affiliations over to ABA, thus downsizing the NBL's Virginia State Series for 2010 to include just four tracks, Woodbridge, Richmond, Petersburg, and Winchester. At the same time this makes them the only ABA affiliated track in Virginia.
Wayne Racine
With two organizing bodies in the sport of BMX, there's often a bit of a rivalry between tracks based on their national affiliation. I guess that all a part of healthy competition. Most dedicated BMX'ers will join both leagues and race at all of the tracks, sometimes making it difficult to pick a state to represent when it comes to Regional and National events. All of the other tracks in the area are maintaining their current affiliations and locations. They're just hoping to have spring show up soon so they can get underway. As we head into April, Delaware's First State BMX is slated to get things underway on Saturday April 3rd. Heading west Maryland's Hagerstown BMX is on target for a Sunday, April 25th opener. A lot of tracks are not only hosting their own websites but have added Facebook and Twitter pages to keep things as up to date as possible. Log in and check out what's new at your local track. All of the tracks in the area are hoping to not only welcome back their regulars from last year but recruit some new riders as well. Make it your season to shake off the winter blues and be your best, supporting your local BMX scene!
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Do you support any of the teams specifically (i.e. Annie’s friends, etc.)?
worthy causes
No, but each year we attend as a family and this year we plan to have a competition with my 5th grader and her friends to see who can raise the most money for ROAR. Does any member of your family also participate in ride or walk? My wife Karen and my kids have attended in the past and since I usually do the 50 mile ride, we usually reconnect after the ride for family fun at the event. My kids will ride in the 5 or 10 miler this year. How long have you been a cyclist? I am relatively new to cycling and have been riding for five years. I became interested in 2004 when the company I work for began a collaboration with the Lance Armstrong Foundation. I was a long distance runner previously and have always been interested in cycling. Through cycling I've met so many great people on the road and in bike clubs. How did you get involved in routing the biking course(s) for ROAR? Did you volunteer for the job?
ROAR Set for April 25
Why Rick Luchinsky ROARS!
Held during national Autism Awareness Month, the Kennedy Krieger Institute’s ROAR for Autism will feature events and activities for all family members, including a 50 and 25 mile ride, a 10 miler for recreational cyclists and a five miler designed for beginner cyclists and a youth fun ride. Oregon Ridge Nature Center will also lead nature walks. The popular Wegmans Wellness Village will provide healthy food for all families including those with children on special autism diets. A festival will also provide entertainment for all participants. For details or registration log onto www.ROAR.kennedykrieger.org or call (443) 923-7300.
When and how did you get involved with ROAR for Autism? This is my 3rd year. I was invited to join the leadership committee by co-chair Pam Gillin. How many years have you participated in the event? I have mapped the rides and participated for the last 2 years. Do you know anyone personally affected by autism? Yes, my wife Karen and I know several families with children affected by autism. I think everyone knows someone who is affected by autism, and that makes this an important cause.
When Pam invited me to join the committee there was a need to create longer routes in an effort to gen-
Editor’s Note: Cyclists in the mid-Atlantic are very fortunate to have a large variety of cycling events that raise money for worthwhile causes. These events are almost always well supported, meaning in most cases a riders just shows up and rides. The rest, like a safe route, stocked rest stops, plenty of goodies, and a guaranteed good time, are taken of by the sponsoring organization and its many volunteers. SPOKES is offering some of these organizations the opportunity to tell our readers about themselves and what they do.
Help Us Get 50 Miles Closer To Understanding
Autism.
Pump up your tires and join us for the adrenalin-laced camaraderie of ROAR for Autism, a biking event to benefit the autism research and treatment programs at Kennedy Krieger Institute. • Bike Ride - Sunday, April 25, 2010 at Oregon Ridge Park (Baltimore County) • Check-in begins 7:00 a.m. for 5, 10, 25 or 50-mile courses • Rest stops and bike repair services provided • Advance Registration: Adults - $25, Children 12 to 5 - $5, Children 4 & under - FREE
To register or to create an online fundraising page where you can build a team, post pictures and track donations, visit www.ROAR.kennedykrieger.org or call 443-923-7300.
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Presented by:
www.facebook.com/roarforautism
erate interest from the cycling community. So, yes I volunteered. How do you go about mapping out the bike routes and changing them each year? Do people provide suggestions that you try to carry out? Do you use any specific computer program to do the mapping? Last year we changed the 25 mile and 50 mile route to offer some flatter, gently rolling riding early in an effort to warm up the riders. Since we received good feedback, we plan to keep the 50 miler and 25 miler the same for this year. As for the 10 mile ride we are looking at adjusting it to offer a combination of scenery and flat to gentle hills. The family ride is typically half of the 10 miler. In the past I have used bikely.com for the long rides.
First and foremost safety. We want to make sure riders have a great experience and families are comfortable riding together in the shorter route. As for the 25 and 50 mile routes, certainly safety is a focus in trying to avoid high traffic roads but we also have four rest stops and try to find the right balance of rolling hills and flats. Riding in northern Baltimore County offers a lot of opportunity to climb and test your ability, so, when mapping the routes, I take into consideration the total amount of climbing involved. Is there a certain difficultly level that accompanies any of the courses other than distance? Yes, the 50 miler includes nearly 4,000 feet of climbing throughout the 50 miles, so it is geared to the more experienced riders.
Do you map out each of the different rides yourself (the five, 10, 25 and 50 milers)?
What kind of bike do you ride for the ROAR event?
Yes for the longer rides, however, for the five and 10 there are others from the committee that help to make sure we have the best possible option for the families.
What would you say to encourage other bikers to attend the event and help raise money?
VO2 Max Testing (Bike or Run)
The ROAR event is both a family friendly event and offers experienced riders a challenging 50 mile tour through some of the most scenic farms in the Baltimore County area.
Blood Lactate Testing Resting Metabolic Testing Body Fat Composition
Is there any other information you'd like to share about cycling, the ROAR event or anything else you think I should know?
Krista A. Schultz
MEd, CSCS
443.414.5846 www.totalperformanceinc.net
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What things do you consider when mapping out the different courses?
Exercise Testing
What do you personally like, find special or unique about ROAR?
H
Yes, we test the routes and the first year we had a short stretch of road with gravel on the 50 mile route, we have since changed this route. As for riding the courses beforehand, I try to ride three or four days a week and when the weather begins to warm up (40s or better), I will ride. So, it depends, but well in advance so we can make changes if we need too. Last year, a small bridge on the route was under construction right up to the week before. So, you also have to map plan B. We want to provide a safe riding experience for everyone but also offer more experienced riders a challenging route.
If you enjoy riding, nature hikes, or simply meeting people, this is a great event. Combine your enthusiasm for biking or hiking with fund raising and you benefit a very special local organization like the Kennedy Krieger Institute and families with autism.
H
I heard that you test out the courses beforehand. Is that true? How far in advance do you do this? Why is this important?
I have a 2005 Orbea road bike.
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Racers will be able to compete solo and in teams of 2 and 3. Camping is available in the race pit area in the park for $10 per night per team on Friday and Saturday nights for racers and the lake in the park allows swimming.
joe foley jfoley441@gmail.com
Big Bear Hibernates It's Trailwork Season
For the first time in 19 years Granny Gear Productions will not be organizing a 24 hour race in West Virginia, the birthplace of 24 hour mountain bike racing.
This winter has been especially hard on the trails and once again it's time to get out and give back. With the unusual amount of snow we had this winter, plus what looks to be shaping up to be a very wet spring the trails are going to need in extra need of help.
Granny Gear’s Laird Knight has decided not to hold the 2010 edition of the 24 Hours of Big Bear but hopes to hold the event again in 2011. Knight has also decided to idle the 24 Hours of 9-Mile for this year. Granny Gear’s 24 Hours of Moab however, will go on and will take over as USA Cycling’s 24 Hour National Championships from Big Bear.
Late winter and early spring can be especially hard on the trails. Damp weather combined with above freezing days and below freezing nights create a freezethaw cycle that softens the ground and creates the ideal conditions for trail damage. This winters' storms have also left a lot of deadfall down on the trails that needs to be cleared to open the trails.
“These races still have huge potential and I'm still game for making these events successful,” Knight told SPOKES. He said he sees this as an opportunity to “hit the reset button and start now to build a marketing plan now for 2011.” The race, which had previously been known as the 24 hours of Canaan and the 24 Hours of Snowshoe moved to Big Bear in 2005 but hadn't been able to reach the number of teams that it needed to make it sustainable since the move. The decision was "extremely painful,” said Knight, but “the finances won't allow” the race to happen this year. In addition to lower than needed participation, the economic slump has made finding sponsors for this year's race very difficult. The race has faced increasing competition in recent years as the number of endurance mountain bike races has grown, but changing demographics have also hurt attendance. The mountain bike race community is aging and potential racers are more likely to have families and now need to juggle racing with little league and soccer games. Knight has also decided to start looking for someone to buy Granny Gear. “It’s been a fun ride,” Knight told SPOKES, but added that “I need a break. I've been doing this professionally for 18 years, and 10 years before that as an amateur.” Looking back at those years Knight said “...being able to produce fun experiences, that's meaningful.” In the meantime Knight will be hosting informal pow-wows at each of the venues on the original race weekends as a part of his plan to restart the races next year. Theses will be an opportunity to ride, camp, and talk about what the race community is looking for in the events.
The 24 Hours of Big Bear had been set to occur on June 12-13 at Big Bear Camplands in Hazelton, W. Va.
Promoters Work to Fill the Gap With a weekend now open in the June endurance racing calendar several race promoters are looking to fill the gap. Shenandoah Mountain Touring's “Stoopid 50" was already scheduled for June 13th. The 50-mile race through the forests of Pennsylvania is based in State College and held in association with the Nittany Mountain Bike Association. Mark Schooley will be organizing a race at Big Bear on the Saturday of the originally scheduled weekend. The race will consist of four laps of a 24 (or 25) mile course and will have solo and duo categories.
The Mid-Atlantic Off-Road Enthusiasts (MORE), who a huge amount of volunteer work to maintain many area trails, has set trailwork days for many of the trails it maintains each spring and fall so there are plenty of opportunities to help the trails that you ride all year long. The calendar isn't finalized yet, but here are the current MORE trailwork days for April & May: April 10th - Loch Raven Reservoir, Maryland April 10th - Schaeffer Farms, Germantown, Maryland April 11th - Greenbrier State Park, Boonsboro, Maryland April 17th - Rosaryville State Park, Maryland April 17th - Conway Robinson State Forest, Virginia April 18th - Cabin John Park, Maryland May 1st - Lake Fairfax Park, Virginia
EX2Adventures Inaugurates the 9 Hours of Rocky Gap
May 8th - Upper Rock Creek, Maryland
EX2Adventures will be kicking off their 2010 mountain bike calendar with a new race on May 15th. After the success of the 12 Hours of Cranky Monkey at Quantico EX2Adventures have decided to host another endurance event, this one at Rocky Gap State Park in Flintstone, Maryland. EX2 has hosted a variety of adventure races and off road triathlons and duathalons at the park, which is about 2 ½ hours from the Baltimore/DC metro area. The race will start at 11a.m. and run through 8 p.m. and will run on the nine-mile singletrack trail network in the park. The trails are twisty and semi-technical.
May 16th - Patapsco Valley State Park, Maryland May 22nd - Loch Raven Reservoir, Maryland May 23rd - Gambrill State Park, Maryland Trailwork days usually start at 9 a.m. but check the calendar on the MORE website for details at www. more-mtb.org Shenandoah Valley Bicycle Coalition (SVBC) hosts trailwork throughout the year. Thursday evening trailwork on the Massanutten western slope runs through June from 5 p.m. until dark. Check the SVBC website at www.svbcoalition.org
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Over 1600 athletes completed in the minimum number of events, with awards of $150, $100 and $50 typically going top three finishers, and qualified for $500 end-of-the-season bonus, captured by Kent Buckson, of Rehoboth, Del. and Leslie Randall, of Royersford, Pa.
Piranha Sports celebrates 10th Anniversary For the 10th year, Neil Semmel’s Piranha Sports, will be managing some of the mid-Atlantic region’s most popular multi-sport events, including the Diamond in the Rough Triathlon in Perryville, Md., in mid-July, and the Lums Pond Triathlon and Duathlon in Bear, Del.
The top club this year can win $3,000 in the end-ofthe-season points championship, with the second and third-place clubs in the points series earning $1,500 and $1,000 respectively.
Their overall line-up includes organizing 20 races overall, from Pennsylvania to New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland, including the growing Pittsburgh Triathlon and Adventure Race and three all-women Diamond Girl events.
Piranha Sports triathlon season starts May 8, with the New Jersey Devilman Triathlon, May 8, and concludes with the late-season Cape Henelopen Triathlon and Dualthlon, Oct. 10.
Piranha also works with a growing number of partners, providing timing at five other events and online registration for another half-dozen races.
Last year, Piranha added a new event in Shawnee State Park in Schellsburg, Pa., the Cannonman Sprint and half-Ironman Triathlon, which attracted 200 firstyear entrants, a number expected to quadruple this August.
After a decade in the business, Semmel continues to expand Piranha’s operation, adding the new beginner, mini “Tri-it” Triathlon in Bear this June, as well as a four-event, “Escape from School” youth series this year. “Well, people tell me there is a lot money in race directing,” Semmel said, laughing in a recent interview. “I’m still waiting to see it. My advice is don’t quit your day job.” The good-natured Semmel may be laughing, but he’s not joking. He still teaches vision-impaired and blind children at a Delaware school part-time. Originally from Coopersburg, Pa., where he ran cross country and track at Southern Lehigh High School and did the steeple chase at nearby Kutztown University, the 46-year-old Semmel competed in triathlons for 10 years before focusing on directing races. But in fact, his race-directing career began while he was still in high school. While a teenager, Semmel began directing his own running race in his native Coopersburg, eventually handing the reigns over after graduation.
Mark Smith, owner Bonzai Sports, and Neil Semmel, owner Piranha Sports
Married with two kids, Jesse, a high schooler, and Lexi, in elementary school, Semmel is adding both familyoriented events – such as the youth series – and adding prize money to attract a strong field to the annual Piranha Greater Atlantic Multisport Series, Greater Atlantic Club Challenge and DiamondGirl Series. This season, Piranha will be offering $30,000 in total prize money, with the top three male and female finishers earning cash at races, as well as the clubs with members finishing on the leader board. Individual triathletes that compete in a minimum of four Piranha events are eligible for the end-of-theseason points championship.
“It’s the only half-Ironman we do and it’s a strong course,” Semmel said. “It’s one of the best venues I’ve ever seen anywhere.” The DiamondGirl series, with June events in Bear, Del. and Quakertown, Pa., and a race in Harriman State Park, N.Y, in August, plus Pittsburgh and Triathlon and Adventure keep growing as well. In partnership with Friends of the Riverfront, the Pittsburgh event attracted 900 last year, including 100 athletes who took part in the 2-mile paddle, 20K bike and 5K run option. “That’s really one of the few city triathlons in the country, the other being Chicago possibly, where you can really see the skyline when you’re in the water,” Semmel said, adding the Allegheny River has been tested each year for the past seven years and has always been deemed safe by city officials for swimming. “It’s a true city race.”
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He’s hoping to attract 500 competitors this year and 1,000 in the near future. He called the venue, spectator-friendly, with both the swim and bike sections consisting of two loops visible by fans. Racine added that while there is some nice elevation on the bike part, the run portion of the event is on a flat, trafficfree course. With all the race directing, Racine hasn’t forgotten about trying to make the sport a family activity. The Hagerstown duathlon and sprint events, as well as the Health Unlimited Triathlon, all include youth races. He hasn’t left competing behind either, despite the added responsibilities. His favorite events (other than his own, in which he doesn’t compete) are the
Columbia Triathlon and the Nations Triathlon. He’s also competed in the Timberman half-Ironman several times. Locally, he’s taken home first place trophies from the Cannonman and a Mt. Airy sprint. Meanwhile, he’s open to continuing to let the race organizing business unfold. “The motivation isn’t to grow as big as we can,” Racine said. “It’s promoting a ‘Fitness for Life’ message for both kids and adults. ‘Fitness for Life’ is our tagline. I can’t tell what a joy it is to watch people cross the finish line of a race you’ve organized. “I know how good they feel.” For more information, visit www.raceinemultisports.com
Ken Racine
Finally, Semmel might not be done adding new races this year. “Look on our website, we’ll be adding a triathlon in Easton, Pa. this summer,” he said. “We’re in the process of working out the details.” For more information visit www.piranha-sports.com
Budding Racine Multisports adds Two Races Ken Racine didn’t play football, basketball or baseball at Wilde Lake High School in Columbia - his passion was racing bicycles. Later, at Towson University, he took up triathlon, competing “very seriously” from the time he was 19 to 24-years-old, including the former Bud Light Series in the Baltimore-area. “My favorite race was a point-to-point race that started in Gunpowder State Park,” Racine recalled recently. Eventually, he said, it was time to build a career, and he gave up triathlon. Racine went into the warehouse distribution business. He married and started a family. Now 44, Racine, who lives in Williamsport, Md., said he returned to the sport after an epiphany of sorts as he turned 35. “I was out of shape and I missed how it felt being in shape,” he said. “And I wanted to be in shape for my kids. I wanted to shed a few pounds and be able do things with them.” At first, he started cycling again. Even competing again. Later, a friend, Mark Neubauer, invited him – on short notice - to participate in a small sprint tri in Mt. Airy, Md. “I had three weeks to run and swim in preparation, but I wound up doing it comfortably,” Racine said. “By the time, I hit the finish line, I was hooked again.” In comparison, competitive cycling, Racine realized, was not as family friendly as triathlon, where families could spend the day at a state park while cheering for dad or mom. Within a year, Racine was organizing races himself. This season, Racine MultiSports’ fourth, Racine has added two new races to the annual Hagerstown duathlon events on April 17, the Hagerstown triathlon events on July 25, and the Health Unlimited triathlons in Mt. Airy and Women’s Only in September in Frederick. And now, on the scenic property of the closed Fort Ritchie military base in Cascade, Md., Racine Multisports will host a 5K run, 40K bike, 10K duathlon on May 15, and its first Olympic-distance triathlon, Aug. 8. The Hagerstown triathlon sold out last year at 350 competitors, but Racine expects the Fort Ritchie Triathlon to become Racine MultiSports’ “flagship” event.
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Behind Bars by chris eatough
info@bikearlington.com
2010 National Bike Summit The beginning of March finally brought a thaw out in the mid Atlantic. Perfect for getting out on the bike, and also coinciding nicely with the annual National Bike Summit in Washington D.C. This is an extremely important event for the bike transportation movement in the United States, and this year brought 725 bicycle advocates, educators, enthusiasts, and industry leaders together – by far the most ever in the summit’s ten year history.
Personally, this was my first Bike Summit, and it was
It was an interesting convergence of friends and associates from my previous career, professional mountain bike racing, and my current position as program manager for BikeArlington. I ran into friends and colleagues from both worlds, including the father of mountain biking himself, Gary Fisher. Some more of the Summit highlights include: 1.Google announces bicycle routing for Google Maps. The most used routing system now includes a nationwide bike network, and can select your bike trip to prioritize bike paths and bike lanes. Google proudly demonstrated this function at the Summit for the first time.
The Bike Summit is hosted by the League of American Bicyclists, who do a fantastic job of organizing cyclist from around the country into a collective force that can meet with legislators on Capitol Hill and voice our concerns, requests and interests. Issues for cycling on road and off road are both addressed. As well as the lobbying activities, there are lots of opportunities to network and learn about what is going on all over the country with regards to bike transportation and bike access.
incredibly motivating to attend. I devoured information, talked to as many people as possible, and allowed myself to be engulfed in the wave of enthusiasm.
2. Bike lanes on Pennsylvania Avenue, possibly America’s most famous street, were announced. 3. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood stood on a table and gave a rousing speech declaring that, “This is the end of favoring motorized transportation at the expense of non-motorized.” 4. I even met up with some old friends, such as the father of mountain biking himself, Gary Fisher. Author Eatough and Gary Fisher, "father of mountain biking"
As the “Summiters” disperse back around the country, I hope that the momentum is maintained in their respective communities, and that the surge of bicycle love has the desired affect on Capital Hill. The current climate of budget, health, and sustainablilty awareness is a good one for pushing bike policy to a new level. The blue skies and snow free bike paths don’t hurt either.
Editor’s Note: SPOKES is excited to welcome one of the world’s legendary bicycle racers to our group of featured columnists. Six-time 24-hour solo World Cup champion and five-time 24-hour solo National Cup champion Chris Eatough has been a professional mountain bike racer since 1998. The Baltimore area resident dominated 24-hour mountain bike racing for over half a decade, revolutionizing the sport by combining cross country race speed with meticulously choreographed pit stop strategies. Eatough gained considerable world wide fame as the subject of the full-length motion picture 24 Solo, which told the gripping story of his bid for a seventhconsecutive 24-hour Solo World Championship. In addition to his World and National solo titles, Eatough won the 2007 24 Hours of Moab; 2007 National Ultra Endurance Champion; 2007 “BC Bike Race” Champion; and ten victories in 100-mile mountain bike races. The married father of two young children has joined the ranks of the non-pro bicycle workers. Chris, who has a degree in engineering was hired last fall as program manager for BikeArlington. Chris would like to know what topics you would like him to cover in upcoming columns. If you have a particular interest or questions you’d like to ask Chris, email them to him at info@bikearlington.com. For more information about Bike Arlington, log onto www.BikeArlington.com.
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Call 301-371-5309 26
April 2010
The Bike House – Bringing Cycling to the Petworth Community A small group of young bike enthusiasts, who have established D.C.’s first ever bike co-op, the Bike House, is out to change the way we attract young people to the bicycling movement. Now, in its second year of hosting free bike workshops, the Bike House is attracting young people in droves. The co-op, which consists of a tent and a tool table in back of Qualia Coffee on Georgia Avenue, was put on hold due to the snowy winter season but is resuming their weekend workshops every Saturday from 12-3 p.m. where anyone can come and learn how to fix their bike for free. Tommaso Boggia, who helped establish the Bike House last year and is currently a volunteer, came on board when his house mate approached him about an effort to create a physical place where people from all over D.C. could come and learn about and enjoy bikes – a bike co-op. Boggia, whose background is in national organizing and works as an advisor to college students who are running campaigns on their campuses, was tired of always advising people and wanted to actually start doing. So, he took this project head on, putting an ad on Craigslist to find experienced bike shop mechanics to volunteer at workshops. After seeing old and run down bikes with gears that don’t properly shift parked all around the city, Tommaso and the Bike House crew decided their first project would be to help people fix their bikes. “When you have a bike that’s run down, you’re really less likely to use it. When you push the shifter and it actually shifts the right way, there’s an exhilarating feeling to that that keeps you on a bike,” Tommaso told SPOKES.
heels on wheels by
ebony payne ebonypayne187@gmail.com
Their goal was to increase the number of bikers in the city by empowering people with the knowledge of how to fix their own bikes. With the Bike House’s free workshops, cyclists can learn step by step how to do repairs. Often times, workshops bring in up to about 40 guests at a time. It’s a very relaxed environment where everybody can come and work together, talk about bicycling, and enjoy the fresh air while getting their hands dirty. Not all the volunteers at the Bike House are pros either. Many are just cycling enthusiasts who want to help and learn. Does this make the process any less enjoyable for workshop attendees? Not at all, says Boggia “One of the exciting things about volunteering for the bike shop is that a lot of us started out knowing basically nothing about [fixing] bikes.” The first couple of workshops were spent experimenting on the volunteer’s own bikes with the few experienced mechanics they had on board. Once workshops became increasingly busy and more mechanics were needed on hand, the volunteers had gained enough experience to start helping people fix their bikes. While most cycling groups and clubs find their membership aging, the Bike House is run by young cyclists and workshops usually attract young crowds especially from the young urban professional community. But with the original intent of the Bike House as a place to democratize biking and make it more accessible to the original Petworth community, a lot of planning for this year’s upcoming programs is going into how to reach out to people from within Petworth as well as reach out to cyclists outside of the 30 and younger crowd. The great thing about the Bike House, besides its
wonderful free workshops, is that it proves that there is a sizable young population of cyclists who don’t just ride for sport, but who have a genuine interest in making cycling a mainstream activity in the city and empowering the community. Make no mistake, with the combination of the bicycle lane initiatives going on in DC; the Bike House is pioneering the way to bringing the age old past time to the next generation.
Editor’s Note: Author Ebony Payne, 18, of Washington, D.C., has become a cyclist. Not a racer, not a recreational rider, but someone who loves the activity because it enables her to go where she wants in style and without hurting the environment. She was recently given a scholarship by the Potomac Pedalers Touring Club to attend the global warming summit in Copenhagen. She will write occasional columns for SPOKES.
WABA Director Gilliland Moves On by Ron Cassie In a letter e-mailed to Washington Area Bicyclists Association members, executive director Eric Gilliland announced his resignation March 17, accepting the position of executive director of the National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO). Gilliland wrote, “it is with a heavy heart,” that he announced his resignation. “This was a very difficult decision for me to make,” Gilliland continued. “I have poured blood, sweat and tears into WABA for over a decade, and am extremely proud of what we have been able to accomplish together.” He noted that since its founding in 1972, WABA has been a strong and influential voice for cyclists in the Washington, D.C. area. Gilliland added that he strongly believes that with WABA’s dedicated board of directors and hardworking staff, and the support of its membership, the organization will continue to thrive and continue to make the D.C. area a better place to bike. Gilliland will begin his new role on April 1. WABA's education coordinator, Dorcas Adkins, has been named interim executive director to help assist the organization during this transition. “While I have been very happy with my role at WABA, and with the successes we have enjoyed over the years, the position at NACTO is an amazing opportunity that I could not refuse,” Gilliland added. “Not only will I be working with some of the most innovative thinkers in urban transportation from around the country, but I will have the opportunity to build the organization into an effective advocate for bicycling, walking and transit in cities around the U.S.” WABA is conducting a nation-wide search for a new executive director. A job description can be found at www.waba.org.
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calendar of events Parts & Accessories for All Makes Trailers & Trikes Family Owned – In Bethesda for 39 Years
All cyclists and their families are invited to join this 16th annual weekend ride held in Madison, Ga., hosted by BRAG (Bicycle Ride Across Georgia). Flat to gently rolling hills. This is a fun time for the whole family and a great time to get in shape for BRAG! Various ride options available daily as well as daily rates for those who cannot ride all weekend. Plenty of food, music and entertainment. For more info visit www.brag.org or email info@brag.org or call (770) 498-5153.
young men and women for their service. We will also be honoring active duty and retired military who will be riding with us. The ride begins Saturday in Washington with a 55+ mile ride to Frederick, Md. The ride continues Sunday from Frederick another 45+ miles to Gettysburg, PA. Our dramatic arrival into Gettysburg will thru the battlefield and end at Marine Barrack Gettysburg for our famous ‘Steaks and Beers’ celebration.There is NO charge for injured servicemen and women. There is a $50 registration fee for active duty and fully retired military and a $200 minimum fundraising goal. For all other participants, the registration fee is $100 and a $400 minimum fundraising goal. All registration can be done on-line at www.worldteamsports.org
APRIL 17 – OCEAN TO BAY TOUR
APRIL 24 – TOUR DE CARROLL
Pedal along coastal Delaware’s beaches and bays on the 21th annual Ocean to Bay Bike Tour, beginning at 8 a.m.. Routes begin and end at Garfield Parkway and the boardwalk in Bethany Beach, Del. Cyclists will tour coastal and inland bay areas on 25-, 35- and 50-mile circuits. Rest stops along the way provide light snacks and refreshments. Visit the BethanyFenwick Area Chamber of Commerce web site at www. TheQuietResorts.com or call 800-962-SURF toll-free for more information or a registration brochure.
Join 750 other cyclists in checking out the scenery of Carroll County, Md., and get those winter-lazy legs in shape for the summer. Ride the 6th Annual Tour de Carroll and enjoy the beauty and great rides that the county has to offer. All proceeds benefit West End Adult Day Care Services, Carroll County’s only private, non-profit service for low income seniors. There are four rides for all skill levels ranging from a full metric (63 miles) 36 miles spring classic, 25 mile recreational ride, and 8 mile family fun ride. Check out this event and register at active.com. Call (410) 840-8381 for details.
For a more comprehensive list check out www.spokesmagazine.com. APRIL 16-18 – SPRING TUNE-UP
APRIL 23-25 – FACE OF AMERICA This is the 10th anniversary of this powerful cycling event. World T.E.A.M. Sports (The Exceptional Athlete Matters) uses the powerful platform of sports to bring together participants with and without disabilities. There are an increasing number of servicemen and women returning from the wars with severe injuries. This ride will honor them and thank these
Featuring Bikes from:
Road, Hybrids, Mountain, Kids
APRIL 24 – END HUNGER RIDE A day of biking along the scenic western shore of the Chesapeake Bay in Calvert County, Md. . Pedal along the bay front, marinas, farmland and a local winery, knowing that your registration fee will help feed a hungry family. This is a fully supported event with
routes ranging from 15 miles to a full metric century. Check out our new beginner ride which includes safety orientation, road rules and a ride leader to make sure even our newest riders have a great day. For details log onto endhungercalvert.org
APRIL 25 – ROAR Held during national Autism Awareness Month, the Kennedy Krieger Institute’s ROAR for Autism will feature events and activities for all family members, including a 50 and 25 mile ride, a 10 miler for recreational cyclists and a five miler designed for beginner cyclists and a youth fun ride. Oregon Ridge Nature Center will also lead nature walks. The popular Wegmans Wellness Village will provide healthy food for all families including those with children on special autism diets. A festival will also provide entertainment for all participants. For details or registration log onto www.ROAR.kennedykrieger.org or call (443) 923-7300.
APRIL 25 – GREENBRIER CHALLENGE This seventh annual USA Cycling-affiliated event is the largest mountain bike race in the Mid-Atlantic Region, with several opportunities for all levels of racers, from beginners to pros. It includes the Maryland State Championships, a Junior Olympic race for 18 yr olds and under, a Marathon race, a Kids race, is one of three races in the Mid Atlantic Regional Championship (MARC) series, and is a qualifier for the U.S. National Championships. See www. potomacvelo.com for details. Potomac Velo Club puts on the race for the benefit of the racers and for Trips for Kids Charity, but added volunteer workers are needed to make it all happen. If interested in volunteering or needing more info, contact Jim Carlson, jcarlsonida@yahoo.com or (703) 569-9875.
MAY 1 – SIX PILLARS CENTURY
Join The Bike Lane For a Day to Celebrate Cycling!
Paul’s Ride for Life, Road and Mountain Bike Demo Rides Kids Safety Rodeo and BMX Stunt Shows throughout the day! Expo Area, Local Clubs and Groups, Cycling Fashion Show, and More!
Character Counts Mid-Shore is sponsoring this fundraiser at the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge near Cambridge, MD. The event includes four ride choices, including a 12-mile family ride, a 30-mile fun & fitness ride, a 56 miler, and a full century. The event will support Character Counts Mid-Shore, Inc., an agency which provides the Winners Walk Tall Program in the public schools in Talbot, Caroline and Dorchester counties free of charge. The lessons, provided by over 200 character coaches, are based on the six pillars of character: Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring and Citizenship. For details visit www. charactercountsmidshore.org or call (410) 819-0386.
MAY 2 – FALLSTON DUATHON Annie’s Playground in Fallston, Md., will be the site of the first Fallston Duathlon. In support of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Contes Bikes of Bel Air, Md., will host this event. Registration is limited to the first 350 entries. Event begins at 7 a.m. For details call the store at (410) 838-0866 or email BelAirMD@contebikes.com
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April 2010
I’m one rider, inspired by one little boy with diabetes, to join thousands of other riders across the nation, supported by contributions from thousands more. I ride for the 24 million people living with diabetes, and the 57 million more Americans currently at risk. I ride for one little boy. Who will you ride for?
START A CHAIN REACTION. STOP DIABETES. Sunday, June 20, 2010 Reston Town Center
100 Mile - Century Ride 63 Mile - Metric Century 33 Mile - Metric Half Century
REGISTER AT STOPDIABETES.COM/SPOKES
1-888-DIABETES x4518
20 Mile - Fitness Test 17 Mile - Mountain Bike Ride 12 Mile - Family Fun Ride
calendar continued from p.28 MAY 2 – NOKESVILLE PICNIC RIDE The Potomac Pedalers Touring Club (PPTC) is sponsoring a multi-class Nokesville Picnic Ride Sunday at the Nokesville Community Park in Nokesville, VA. As always, it’s open to everyone, new, old and nonmembers. This is a multi-class ride with something for everyone. There will be rides from 10-51 miles, covering classes from A to D. After the ride everyone gathers at the pavilion for free hot dogs, hamburgers, veggie burgers, etc. PPTC provides drinks, plates, napkins, cups, utensils, and condiments but anyone should feel free to bring their own reusable plates or utensils (to keep the trash down.) As always, everyone is encouraged to bring a dish – salad, chips, other side dishes or desserts - to share. Contact Catherine Kitchell at ckitchell@comcast.net or check out the club’s website at www.bikepptc.org for more information.
MAY 8 – CAPITAL TO CAPITAL RIDE The Virginia Capital Trail Foundation is hosting the Capital to Capital bike ride. Riders can choose to start from either Richmond or Williamsburg, ride 100, 50 or 25 miles through Henrico and Charles City Counties. The Williamsburg side will offer a 15-mile family ride on the completed portion of the Virginia Capital Trail. For more information and online registration, visit: www.virginiacapitaltrail.org
MAY 14-16 – TOUR DE CHESAPEAKE All new this year, Tour de Chesapeake is now the “Bikes, Bands, and the Bay Festival.” BikeWalk Virginia, Mathews County and the Chesapeake Bay Foundation are partnering for a full weekend of cycling, water sports, music. Celebrate the arrival of spring with a bike tour through the wonderful, scenic and flat Mathews County backroads along
the Chesapeake Bay. Perfect as a family’s first biking adventure, or maybe the intermediate rider’s, and even the experienced veteran’s, season warmup. Choose tours of 17, 40, 60, or 80 miles. Families especially will enjoy the abundant quiet, scenic lanes winding down to forgotten coves on the Chesapeake Bay, the East River and the North River. Pedal in and out of the beautiful salt marshes instead of traffic. Visit www.bikechesapeake.org for details and to register online. For inquiries, call (757) 229-0507 or email info@bikechesapeake.org.
Join the Maryland Chapter of the National MS Society for a one or two day ride on Maryland's Eastern Shore. Routes range from 30 -100 miles on Saturday and 30 & 50 mile on Sunday. Overnight at Chestertown, Md. Route is fully supported with rest stops, bike techs and support vehicles. To Register or find out more, visit www.marylandmsbikeride.org or call (443) 641-1200.
MAY 28-31 – KENT COUNTY SPRING FLING Join the Baltimore Bicycling Club and Washington College as they host this 27th annual weekend event along Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Rides range from 11 to 100 miles on flat to rolling terrain. Stay at Washington College’s dorm and enjoy great food, an ice cream social, live music, blue grass on the square, contra dancing, sock hop, and much more. For details contact Frank and Kathy Anders at (410) 628-4018 or email KCSF@verizon.net
JUNE 5-12 – BICYCLE RIDE ACROSS GEORGIA Come discover Georgia by bicycle on the 31st annual Bicycle Ride Across Georgia. This year’s loop ride will begin and end in Fayetteville, with overnight stops in Griffin, Thomaston, Columbus, LaGrange, and
Bike Route Options:
Bike Route Options: 63 mile High Tech Metric Century 36 mile Spring Classic 25 mile Recreational Ride 8 mile Family Fun Ride
Save the date: APRIL 24, 2010 Get those bikes and cycling legs in shape & enjoy the beautiful Carroll County countryside!!
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MAY 22-23 – CHESAPEAKE CHALLENGE
Show and Go – 8am to 11am Lunch (included) – 11:30am to 1:30pm
6th ANNUAL TOUR DE CARROLL
12th Annual
Rain or Shine!
Radio sag and sweep on all routes until 12 noon. Rest stops, maps, cue sheets. Plenty of free parking and nearby motels. Easy location at Dutterer’s Park in Westminster, MD (just off Rt.140; 25 miles W of Baltimore, 20 miles E of Frederick).
$35.00 Registration includes: Lunch T-shirt 30 day pass to Westminster Family Center, full service gym. ($55 value)
Entry into drawing for door prizes (totaling $1,000.00). Winners posted at Noon. Raffle for $250 cash prize. Drawing at Noon.
June 6th, 2010 Celebrating Vintage Lightweight Racing and Touring Bicycles, and the Artists & Craft Persons Carrying on the Traditions
A Circus of Cycling at the Loudoun County Fairgrounds Leesburg, Virginia Vintage Bike Show Custom Frame Builders Special Vendors Swap Meet Vendor Spaces Available!!
General Admission Just $5!
Vendor Registration at: Search “June 6th” www.cirqueducyclisme.com
Newnan. 1500 riders, street dances, ice cream social, end-of-the-road meal 60 miles average per day, hammerhead options. For more information, visit www.brag.org, or email info@brag.org, or call (770) 498-5153.
JUNE 12-13 – US AIR FORCE CYCLING CLASSIC Registration for participation in the Air Force Cycling Classic, now spread over an entire weekend has opened. The Cycling Classic, positioned at the center of the U.S. national road racing calendar and expected to attract some of the nation’s top racers to its pro events, will now allow more opportunities for cycling enthusiasts of all abilities to participate. The weekend's events in Arlington begin on Saturday with amateur and professional criterium races in Clarendon. On Sunday cycling enthusiasts of all abilities can challenge themselves on the U.S. Air Force Cycling Classic's circuit in Crystal City during the Crystal Ride, a non-competitive ride with an option to raise money for the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund. Following this amateur ride, the men's pro race will take place on the same course. Registration for the amateur participatory ride is now open through the event's website: www.usairforcecyclingclassic.com.
JUNE 12-13 – BIKE MS: BEYOND THE BELTWAY
To register and for further information go to or call: www.active.com or www.tourdecarroll.com
Call 410-840-8381 30
April 2010
Join 1000 participants from across the mid-Atlantic region for the National MS Society, National Capital Chapter’s annual Bike MS event in Middleburg, Va. Choose from several mileage options along our challenging new routes ranging from a 30-mile one day ride to 150 miles over two days, and enjoy great food, beverages, and live music at the finish line. Ride for one day or two. For details, visit www.MSandYOU.org/ bike, or call (202) 296-5363, option 2.
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