magazine issue sept 2013
be treated like a pro by the pros
Hanging with the big boys at the Giro d’Italia tour…
So far a great year…more to come A full on and exciting few months since April. Our European tours have gone off with a bang starting with a fantastic Giro…a little cooler than the past few years but just as exciting. Then the ever popular and intimate Criterium du Dauphine & Time Megeve Sportive followed by the much anticipated 100th running of the Tour de France. The official launch of the Santos Tour Down Under, our Italy Tour of the Lakes Alpes and Dolomites, Basque Pyrenees Tour and finally our Signature Tour of Burgundy, its all turning out to be another amazing and memorable year on the bike.
Chatting with the Orica boys at the start of a stage @ the Giro
What’s inside this issue • European Tours Review • procyclingtours team on the podium • Steve’s procyclingskills Tip • Lantern Rouge – Strava Club Join today • Rider in Profile – Rachel Neylan • What’s in store for 2014 • Training Camps • Santos Tour Down Under 2014 • Bike hire – our new BMCs • Why procyclingtours? The professional difference
Shenanigans with some clients
TEAM procyclingtours on the podium This years Criterium du Dauphine and Time Megeve Sportive Tour proved to be just as successful as last years. With a record number of participants in the sportive our ‘team’ managed another podium place with Dayna Davidson coming second in her age cat as well as our guide Vanessa coming in 3rd. A great achievement. All our other clients also did well many of them exceeding their own expectations. The ability to get up close to the pros in the lead up to their own ‘race’ was no doubt a fantastic motivator. We are already taking early bird registrations for next years tour.
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2014 Tour Snapshots – A look at some of the pictures taken in the first half of our European season. An action packed racing calendar with the Giro, Criterium du Dauphine and TDF. France.
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Giro d’Italia Photo index A. The beautiful scenery of Northern Italy B. The intimate nature of the Giro even allowed our guests to help dress one for the pro riders at the stage finish in Bardonecchia C. An old potters studio in the ancient village of Avigliana D. A ‘Model’ Client waiting for a ride in our great 4 star hotel in Como E. Breakfast in the sunshine on the terrace F. The pretty lakeside hotel in Avigliana. The procyclingtours team taking it easy before a lot of sightseeing, race watching and riding.
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Giro d’Italia Photo index A. Bravo, the climb near Bellagio B. Beautiful Bellagio, not photo shopped! C. Enjoying a pizza & Italian fare in the square D. Getting into the Giro spirit E. Retail therapy for our ‘ramblers’ F. Giant Italian flag. G. The feeding frenzy in the bike store….everyone going home with some goodies.
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Criterium du Dauphine & Time Megeve Sportive
Classic French Alpes Tour – Ventoux to Izoard and many roads in between
Van Transport We only use modern mini vans on our tours to ensure greater flexibility with our ride options and non-ride options. It also means that we can get up the mountains where larger bus groups can’t go We care about the environment we plant a tree in the procyclingtours forest for everyone who comes on a European Tour
Minimum transfer days We prefer to spend a minimum of 2 nights, usually 3 or 4 in the one location. This means less packing and more holidaying
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Free Wi-Fi We offer free Wi-Fi in all our vans for each client
why procyclingtours.com?
You really do matter The owners of procyclingtours along with our highly trained and experienced staff make it our personal mission to ensure you are provided THE BEST SERVICE in the industry. You’re experience begins when you contact us and continues long after you’ve returned home
Smaller groups & more guides The maximum group size we run on tours is 14 guests with up to 4 guides. That’s 1 guide for every 3 – 4 clients, to ensure that personal touch
3 van maximum Watch out for tours that claim they operate vans, some will run up to 6 or more at any one time, which means you’re actually part of a really big group
Fully supported Tours On all our tours you will have both a road guide and van support vehicle which carries numerous spares, snacks, gels, hydration, mechanical assistance, cold drinks sunscreen as well as DVD player, IPod connectivity and even a few books should you feel like a read. We even have change rooms and portable showers
Photos No need to bother about bringing your camera. We can take up to 1000 shots of your holiday which you get to take home at the end of your tour share with family and friends
High end Hire Bikes Take the stress out of travelling with your bike, not knowing if it will arrive in one piece or arrive at all. We have a fleet of current model BMC GranFondo2 bikes, with compacts or triple gearing, Ultegra components and Mavic wheels. Bikes are meticulous and set up according to your specific measurements
Multi-lingual guides There is always someone on your tour who speaks the local lingo
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Repeat Business Since procyclingtours began, each year we have a high percentage of repeat clients, many of which have been on cycling holidays before and have discovered why we are the best…and keep coming back. This is our biggest compliment
why procyclingtours.com?
You’re treated like a pro by the pros We know what it takes to run a successful pro cycling team as well as wining a few races…The owners of the business, Steve & Michelle accompany every tour. No stone is left unturned when it comes to planning and delivering your ultimate cycling adventure
Fabulous Food We know a holiday is not just about the riding…its also about the food and not just any food. All the meals we include are no less than 3 courses, sometimes 5 and many are cooked by well-respected and highly qualified chefs at the head of their game. We also provide some picnic lunches filled with local treats
procyclingskills tips Steve is always on hand to provide you with tips on improving your technique and enjoying your ride even more. Including pre tour training advice and support
Superb accommodation We specifically select accommodation which is of the highest standard available. Often we upgrade the rooms to ones with views or stay in châteaux or even chalets…we expect a high standard and assume you do too
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All inclusive There are no hidden charges on our tours. Wine, beer and other drinks are included with your meals on all 2014 tours excluding TDF
Tour de France Custom Tour – a collage of travels through Spain and Pyrenees
2014 Summer Season Thinking of warm sunny days and getting out and about enjoying riding with your friends? Procyclingskills, based in South Australia, has already helped many people achieve their cycling goals, put more fun into it for them and even improved their podium prospects. How does it work? Following years of success on the pro cycling circuit and working as a Director Sportive for a pro continental team, Steve teaches you techniques and coaches you to better cycling ON THE BIKE. He can also video you so you can see for yourself the things you might need improving on or keep doing the things you do well. Dozens of clients have seen instant results…..its a matter of training smarter not harder. Steve can work with you one on one or in small groups of friends (up to 5) and he also works within your time frames – so no need to train more often, just get the most out of each ride, through perfect technique. With October already starting to fill up, get in contact with us, or book directly online at www.procyclingskills.com to book some sessions with Steve this Australian summer, a great investment.
Steve even provides procyclingskills to clients on our tours – this one was up Alpe d’Huez this year on how to climb more efficiently
We just love getting the feedback from our procycingksills clients‌.. here’s a great letter about how procyclingskills helped on rider achieve one of his goals‌.
Dear Steve It is now just over 3 weeks since the 2013 Scody 3 Peaks Challenge ride. I am still on a major high after achieving all my personal goals in the event, as well as being very much in awe of your amazing win in the event. The reason for my email is to reiterate how valuable your procyclingskills.com sessions were for me in the lead up to this ride. I remember your comments after you watched me ride that first time. You were so right. I was trying pretty hard, but there were lots of opportunities for me to ride smarter! The on road procyclingskills.com sessions coupled with your written advice on technique has made an enormous difference to my ability, to my endurance, and most importantly, to my confidence. Your advice re the pre-event training schedule, fluid intake, and nutrition was also incredibly valuable. I am so impressed that I got through the distance, the heat, and the climbs of the Challenge without blowing up and without any major cramps. On the day of the ride, I recalled your encouragement that I "could do this" as I sat nervously on my bike waiting to start. During the first descent I concentrated on your advice re positioning and line through corners. I got down fairly quickly and safely, and feeling good. During the first two climbs I remembered that you told me you would not be as impressed by my speed at the start of a climb, but rather by my speed/reserve at the top. I worried a little as others passed me at the bottom of the climbs, but I kept to my planned effort level and you were right. I found myself re-passing many of them as the climbs progressed. On reflection I know there are still some things I could have done better. However, as a 55 year old relative cycling novice, for me to finish this ride in under 10 hours is one of the most satisfying personal physical achievements I have managed for a long time. While I realise I had to make the pedals go around myself, I do want to acknowledge how much your input added to my chances of success. I am already looking forward to next year's 3 Peaks, and I plan to be back for more procyclingskills.com sessions. I have recommended them to my cycling friends looking to improve or with a specific goal. Thanks again. It was awesome! Best wishes B ill Grig gs
Day Tours with procyclingtours.com
Santos Tour Down Under 2014
Win a $500 Travel Voucher Book your BUPA / Legends Dinner or any Official Tour product to WIN a $500 Shorts Voucher Everyone who books any official Santos Tour Down Under product from us will go into the draw to win a $500 SA Shorts Voucher for a holiday in SA.
As a TDU Travel Specialist we are proud to offer a selection of fully supported day tours for everyone coming to Adelaide during the tour. Having raced the tour no less than 5 times & winning a couple of Most Aggressive Jerseys and part of the winning team in 2004, Steve Cunningham provides not only personal insight into the tour but Adelaide being our hometown means you will experience the tour like never before.
! fully supported Day Rides with vehicle & bike guides/ mechanics, BBQ lunches ! onboard drinks, nutrition & snacks ! best places to watch the race, team tent, seating ! vehicle transfers available ! purchase VIP packages, Legends Dinner, Bupa Challenge etc at no extra cost ! photos of your day(s) ! procyclingskills tips pre and during your day by Steve ! our service standard sets us apart, experience being pampered like a pro by the pros
Accommodation Package We have secured a limited number of luxury one bedroom apartments (twin or double beds) opposite the Tour Village in Victoria Square. These self contained units offer separate bedroom and all the modern conveniences and just a stones throw away form the pro riders, fabulous restaurants and bars and all the action in the heart of the city. Numbers are limited so contact us now for pricing. Minimum stay required.
2014 Dates to keep free Looking ahead to 2014 it’s never too early to book your holiday Along with our TDF, Giro and Tour Down Under tours we are again running our wonderful Criterium du Dauphine & Time Megeve Sportive Tour and a great holiday through France & Italy‌.along with some training camps in Australia
Take a look at some of the tours we have planned for 2014
January 19 – 26
Santos Tour Down Under
Adelaide, South Australia
May - mid to late
Giro d’Itlaia Italy
June 1 – 9
Criterium du Dauphine & Time Megeve Sportive French Alpes
ld so t ou June 14 - 22
Classic France & Italy
July
Tour de France
2 Tours Alpes and Pyrenees France
September, 1st week
Tour of Burgundy France
Back by popular demand, we are delighted to once again offer a range of Fully Supported Day Tours. We’d love to show you around our ‘backyard’ in personal style. Be treated like a pro, by the pro's and experience the STDU with the owner of the business who's actually raced the event with the Team UniSA five times. 4 ½ star self-contained accommodation and full official tour packages also available.
Be part of the action of the first Grand Tour of the year. The Giro is a more intimate race where you get up close to the riders and the action. We are offering one tour in the latter half to coincide with stages through the Lakes, Alpes and Dolomites - our favourite places that will soon become yours! 4 Star accommodation and classic Italian cuisine will ensure your time off the bike is equally as memorable. *Early Bird Booking Clothing Offer
If a bit of everything is what you are after then this Tour is definitely for you. The Criterium du Dauphine is the lead up race to the TDF and all the big hitters & teams race this event. Unlike the TDF there are no barriers around the riders or road closures hours beforehand. You really do get a chance to chat and be right in the mix. We also take many days away from the race to enjoy riding on quiet back roads at your own pace all in preparation for the grand finale of a ride in one of the most popular cyclosprotives in France – the Time Megeve Sportive - under the shadow of Mont Blanc. With a choice of three routes, this mass participation ride is perfect for all riders levels. Non-riders also love this tour, which is filled with lots of sightseeing, chateaux & high-end accommodation. * Early Bird Booking Clothing Offer
With this tour now SOLD OUT we are looking running a second tour later in the year. A fabulous combination of two cultures and riding the roads made famous by last years Tour de France AND Giro d’Italia. First through the amazing Provence, Mont Ventoux before riding over the border and into Northern Italy and the stunning medieval villages and great coffee! Before returning back to France to conquer Galibier and Alpe d’Huez!
The holiday everyone must experience at least once your life…whether you are a rider or not. Difficult to explain to those who have not been part of it, the atmosphere, excitement and endurance of the Tour is one to behold. Not just about the racing, its even more about visiting spectacular scenery and villages which all put on an amazing show. The Tour caravan is also a great highlight with several hundred vehicles throwing out tour goodies, you’re sure to go home with something. Then there is the comradely of the crowd, no matter where you stem from you become one of the locals, cheering and screaming at the top of your lungs. When all the excitement is over it all begins again the next day. We ensure your holiday is a relaxing one as we don’t follow the tour each day and stay in superb lodgings. Terrific for riders and spectators alike.
An amazing and extravagant journey through the sublime area of Burgundy, our backyard in France. We will take you on our favourite quiet back roads, through vineyards and villages. We will slumber in amazing accommodation and dine on fabulous French cuisine created by master chefs. Wine tastings, meeting winemakers and even picking grapes (season dependent) cooking classes and more. This weeklong tour is designed specifically for people who like to ride or simply want to experience the French way of life. * Early Bird Booking Clothing Offer
2013 & 2014 procyclingskills dates to keep free Amy Gillett Gran Fondos TDU BUPA Challenge 3 Peaks Local Racing Gear Up Girl VeloAdelaide Around the Bay Tour de Perth GORC… Are you entered into any of these events or if you’ve simply been riding for a while or just new to the sport, procyclingskills camps & training weekends offer something for everyone. Depending on your goal, Steve and the team will work with you to improve your technique, style and enjoyment all while working within your time schedule.
Nov 17 – 19 2013
Procyclingskills training camp Bright, Vic
Feb 14 – 17 2014
procyclingskills Training Camp McLaren Vale SA
Nov 27th 2013
Bicycle Network 3 Peaks Training Adelaide, TBC
Feb 2nd 2014
Bicycle Network 3 Peaks Training Adelaide, TBC
This 2 day training camp is specifically tailored to riders entered into the Scody 3 Peaks Challenge and Amy Gran Fondo. Covering much of the ride routes Steve and the team will help you achieve what he did in record time at the 2013 3 Peaks. Apart from one on one on the bike technique, training, nutrition, recovery, pre and post race planning and tactics are all covered.
This 3 day training camp is specifically tailored to riders entered into the Scody 3 Peaks Challenge and Amy Gran Fondo. Covering much of the ride routes Steve and the team will help you achieve what he did in record time at the 2013 3 Peaks. Apart from one on one on the bike technique, training, nutrition, recovery, pre and post race planning and tactics are all covered.
In-conjunction with Bicycle Network, gain the upper hand in your training technique with Steve Cunningham and the Bicycle Network crew taking you on a fully supported ride through the Adelaide Hills in preparation specifically for the 3 peaks event in March.
In-conjunction with Bicycle Network, gain the upper hand in your training technique with Steve Cunningham and the Bicycle Network crew taking you on a fully supported ride through the Adelaide Hills in preparation specifically for the 3 peaks event in March.
Watch out for the procyclingtours roadshow – coming for a ride near you GORC ride VIC, Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane & Perth
procyclingtours and procyclingskills gift cards available
Lakes Alpes Dolomites – a splash of memorable photos from Italy
Rider Profile: Rachel Neylan Bring on 2016 Olympics….this girl is hot to trot
We recently spent a few days with Rachel Neylan in the foot hills of Lucca, her European training ground, just before she heads of to France for a race. Not only a lovely person, but an extremely talented athlete (certainly tiring out Steve’s legs). Trying to better her second at the Worlds last year, Rachel hopes to take home Olympic GOLD in Rio 2016……We’re cheering her all the way! The following is a great interview with Rachel by Pelotoncafe.com.au
‘Meet Australian golden girl, Rachel Neylan. If there was ever a person who personified the sayings ‘never, ever give up’ and ‘persistence pays off’ it is Rachel. After pursuing running for years Rachel came to cycling later than most. ‘Scouted’ through an Australian Sports Commission talent identification program Rachel entered and raced her first bike race in 2008 when she was 26-years-old. Her scouting couldn’t have come a moment too soon either, Rachel recalls when she got the phone call saying ‘we think you could be a good cyclist’ that she was a disillusioned and injured runner. Five years on the Australian Sports Commission can be happy with their pick. In 2013 Rachel has firmly cemented herself as one of the sports best; a fact which was confirmed in 2012 when she won silver in the World Championship road race. Rachel’s meteoric rise to the top however, hasn’t been smooth sailing. As her personal motto ‘gutta cavat lapidem’ Latin for ‘constant dripping of water wears away the stone’ suggests, it is hard work and determination that got Rachel to where she is today. In 2010 Rachel looked set to represent Australia for the first time at the Road World Championships which were being held in Geelong, Australia. A string of consistent results and a brutally tough course had her poised to be a crucial ‘link’ in Australia’s World Championship ‘chain,’ however a crash at a national altitude camp in August left her hospitalized and her season over. It was a devastating blow after months of hard work but the disappointment added fuel to the fire and Rachel came back stronger and more determined in 2011 racing for an Italian cycling team where she continued to hone her European racing craft. 2012 was her breakout year, with some fantastic results in the second half of the season Rachel capped off her hard work with her silver medal. In 2013 Rachel hopes to take off exactly where she finished in 2012 and will be a key member of the Hitec Products team in races such as Trofeo Binda, La Flèche Wallonne and the Giro D’Italia.’ Follow her on Twitter @rachneylan and www.rachelneylan.com
Hire Bikes – latest model BMC GF02 with Ultegra
The BMC Granfondo GF02 Ultegra Compact 2013 Road Bike is their best aluminum road bike. The combination of stiffness, lightweight and vertical compliance was reserved to carbon frames until now. With the GF02 BMC have changed that. You will have a hard time to find an aluminum frame that rivals the GF02 in terms of stiffness and weight, but the ability to absorb impacts is what sets it apart from all other aluminum frames. It is that good, it gives many carbon frames out there a hard time. Featuring a Full Shimano Ultegra drivetrain and brakes. What our hire bikes come with: " New and clean helmet " 2 x procyclingtours 750ml water bottles " mini saddle repair pack containing spare tube, CO2 canister, tyre leavers " Ultegra components " Lightweight mavic wheels " Compact 34 and 30 on the rear or triple gearing " Set up specific to your measurements " Theft and damage insurance (optional extra)
2014 special offer
ONLY $500aud rental for ALL European Tours
Challenge yourself against other like minded riders. We’ll also be creating future challenges where you can win prizes. It’s free to join. Simply log onto Strava and search for procyclingtours.com under Strava lets athletes all over the world experience social fitness—sharing, comparing and competing with each other's personal fitness data via mobile and online apps. Currently focused on the needs of avid cyclists and runners, Strava lets you track your rides and runs via your iPhone, Android or dedicated GPS device to analyze and quantify your performance. Strava makes fitness a social experience, providing motivation and camaraderie even if you’re exercising alone.
Tour de France Classic Alpes Tour Photo Gallery
Tour de France Classic Alpes Tour Photo Gallery
We are CUSTOM TOUR specialist Contact us today to create a tour specifically for your group. No group too large or too small.
Next Issue‌. -
You ate what? More exciting news from Europe Some more exciting tours Plus lots more
procyclingtours.com Tel: 0412 231 198 or Toll Free Australia 1800 822 165 Email: info@procyclingtours.com