Bike racing...one week you're up, the next you're down.
This road race was 85 miles with some hilly terrain, wind, and cold. There was a good field assembled that looked to be around 80-100 riders. Some of the talent included Aerospace Engineering, Preferred Alliance, Cyclescience, Josh Thorton from Kodak-Sierra Nevada, Kyle Wamsley from Navigators, and a team from South American with stage racer Wendy Cruz...along with all the other local talent.
The race started briskly, and with narrow roads and the yellow line rule strictly enforced...it was a huge task to get to the front! Ryan and Clint did what they could to cover early moves, while Curtis was suffering from his 10 hour marathon hunting expedition the day before. We missed the strong early move that had representation from all the major teams, which put us into chase mode. It proved difficult, and no time was retrieved from the leaders. As gaps formed, different groups went up the road...and it all became pretty confusing. What I did know, was that I didn't make the front split.
Jeff was able to infiltrate a break on lap 2-3 and headed off. On the last lap, Victor's legs started cramping and missed the next split. With about 3 miles to go I attacked and bridge up to the group in front of me with about 1000 meters to go...but was really cooked by the effort to get there. Jeff tried to lead me out as his giant legs siezed from dragging his huge body over all the previous climbs (although, he made some really interesting grunting noises as this happened, you should ask him to replay them for you!). I just went to the line as fast as I could, and was about 3rd in the sprint from our group. Great job by Jeff for staying in the break, and giving all he had left at the end for the lead out! This really wan't his type of course.
When the results were posted...there were around 20 people in front of our group! Wow, talk about losing track of riders! This was really a good lesson on staying attentive early, and being aggressive. This race wasn't nearly as hard as the road race in the Bahamas, and I could have done another lap or two when I was done. Results in bike races are pretty unpredictable, there are so many factors involved...the race course, wind, temperature, weather, tactics, crashes...and a lot of luck. I'll keep in mind this experience, and try not to make the same mistakes next time...and hope for a little more luck.
Cheers!
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Lake Mary Pictures...
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Jeff Kopp enjoying the Pro 1,2 experience...allllll aboard...
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James trying to get away with Jason Snow...feel the pain...
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...more of the above...
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James and Victor hitting turn 1
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Heading down the back straight
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Below is a sequence of shots with Yosvany Falcon smoking me to the line
...next time!
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Monday, February 12, 2007
Lake Mary Criterium (2/11/07)
Warm and sunny, unlike last years windy and cold slugfest. This course is long with 4 corners...a headwind on the back straight, and a tailwind on the front.
The same folks from yesterday were there, plus a full squad of Andy Crater's team, Wheel and Sprockets out of Wisconsin. It was pretty easy to sit in, but hard to be out front. Today the whole team was involved covering breaks, and pulling back the ones we missed. Victor Rodriguez, Ryan Stoner, Jeff Kopp, Clint Bridier and a battered Curtis Long all were big factors.
During the waning laps a 5 person break was away without an ABRT rider, and Clint, Ryan and Curtis brought it all back together. With about 5 laps to go, Jeff brought up to the font. With 2 laps to go I was on Aerospace Keith Norris' wheel in second, a little too close than I would have liked...but you have to take what you can get this late in the race. After turning the 1st corner on the last lap Keith pulled off, and I let up waiting for a lead out train to come by...Curtis went hard up the left and I jumped into 3rd spot behind Aerospace's Chris Frederick. Curtis pulled to the 3rd turn, and Chris took over. Chris looked back, and then drilled it through the 4rth turn and down the front straight. I knew I had at least 1 Aerospace guy on my wheel, otherwise Chris would never lead this out. Right before I was about to jump, Chris' teammate Yosvany Falcon fly's by and I jump after him. He already has a bike length gap, and I feel riders coming up the left hand side...so I give what I have left finishing 2nd.
Yosvany was first, me second, and Ivan Franco from Aerospace was 3rd. We achieved our first goal of the year, a podium spot in a Pro 1,2 race. I think once everyone on the team has settled into the season, we can make one more step up...
Cheers!
The same folks from yesterday were there, plus a full squad of Andy Crater's team, Wheel and Sprockets out of Wisconsin. It was pretty easy to sit in, but hard to be out front. Today the whole team was involved covering breaks, and pulling back the ones we missed. Victor Rodriguez, Ryan Stoner, Jeff Kopp, Clint Bridier and a battered Curtis Long all were big factors.
During the waning laps a 5 person break was away without an ABRT rider, and Clint, Ryan and Curtis brought it all back together. With about 5 laps to go, Jeff brought up to the font. With 2 laps to go I was on Aerospace Keith Norris' wheel in second, a little too close than I would have liked...but you have to take what you can get this late in the race. After turning the 1st corner on the last lap Keith pulled off, and I let up waiting for a lead out train to come by...Curtis went hard up the left and I jumped into 3rd spot behind Aerospace's Chris Frederick. Curtis pulled to the 3rd turn, and Chris took over. Chris looked back, and then drilled it through the 4rth turn and down the front straight. I knew I had at least 1 Aerospace guy on my wheel, otherwise Chris would never lead this out. Right before I was about to jump, Chris' teammate Yosvany Falcon fly's by and I jump after him. He already has a bike length gap, and I feel riders coming up the left hand side...so I give what I have left finishing 2nd.
Yosvany was first, me second, and Ivan Franco from Aerospace was 3rd. We achieved our first goal of the year, a podium spot in a Pro 1,2 race. I think once everyone on the team has settled into the season, we can make one more step up...
Cheers!
Sanford Lakefront Criterium (2/10/07)
The weather was warm, with a headwind on the front straight, and a tailwind on the back. The course was shortened to 4 corners this year, with a nice section of brick/cobbles after the first turn...just to add some excitement.
The field was pretty big, and contained a full squad from Aerospace Engineering, Preferred Alliance, Cyclescience and many others. The race was fast, with a bunch of "physical contact." Curtis Long took the first $20 preme, and was riding very strong when one of the Aerospace guys cut sharply to avoid a manhole cover and hooked his front wheel. He went down hard, and landed on his hand...and somehow badly bruised his heal (not to mention trashing one of his newly rebuilt wheels).
I covered many breaks, and took a preme. Late in the race we missed a large break with about 4-5 Aerospace, 2 Cyclescience, several Preferred Alliance, and several others. I bridged up solo, and we started gaining time. At one point we were out of sight, until Chris Frederick attacked...and nobody wanted to bring him back. We all stopped pedaling, and went back to the pack.
With 4-5 laps to go Ryan Stoner brought me closer to the front, and with 2 to go Jeff Kopp brought me a little further. Jason Snow from Cyclescience jumped really hard on the back straight, and high-jacked Aerospaces leadout. He won the race with 2 Aerospace guys right behind him. I was a little far back, but was able to pass Joel Chavez at the line for 9th.
We're still working out our tactics as a team, and this was a good start to the season as a full squad.
Cheers!
The field was pretty big, and contained a full squad from Aerospace Engineering, Preferred Alliance, Cyclescience and many others. The race was fast, with a bunch of "physical contact." Curtis Long took the first $20 preme, and was riding very strong when one of the Aerospace guys cut sharply to avoid a manhole cover and hooked his front wheel. He went down hard, and landed on his hand...and somehow badly bruised his heal (not to mention trashing one of his newly rebuilt wheels).
I covered many breaks, and took a preme. Late in the race we missed a large break with about 4-5 Aerospace, 2 Cyclescience, several Preferred Alliance, and several others. I bridged up solo, and we started gaining time. At one point we were out of sight, until Chris Frederick attacked...and nobody wanted to bring him back. We all stopped pedaling, and went back to the pack.
With 4-5 laps to go Ryan Stoner brought me closer to the front, and with 2 to go Jeff Kopp brought me a little further. Jason Snow from Cyclescience jumped really hard on the back straight, and high-jacked Aerospaces leadout. He won the race with 2 Aerospace guys right behind him. I was a little far back, but was able to pass Joel Chavez at the line for 9th.
We're still working out our tactics as a team, and this was a good start to the season as a full squad.
Cheers!
Friday, February 9, 2007
Bahamas pictures...
Curtis headed to the front.
(Photo: Rob Jones-www.canadiancyclist.com)
Curtis and I watching the field thin down.
(Photo: Rob Jones-www.canadiancyclist.com)
Curtis moving up the inside.
(Photo: Rob Jones-www.canadiancyclist.com)
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The Rite-Aid Pro team dragging Curtis and I to the start...really good guys. The guy on the left is Ian Ayers. This picture was "borrowed" off of Jake Rytlewski's blog.
Thursday, February 8, 2007
Tour of Bahamas (2/3/07 - 2/4/07)
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It was a jam packed two days of racing and adventure!
Curtis and I made it to Nassau, Bahamas and checked into our Wyndham "Last" Resort hotel. After going to the Friday kick-off meeting we found out the start list...much different than last year! There were 4 pro teams, Rite-Aid (DS: John Wirsing), Kelley Benefits (DS: Jonas Carney), Slipstream/Chipolte (DS: Jonathan Vaughters), and Aerospace Engineering (DS: Roberto Gaggioli, but wasn't there). Also, the entire U23 national team (VMG, DS: Chann McCrae) was there...all 20 of them! These guys were like big gnats flighting around the peleton..you swat one, and another one is right there! They were getting ready for the Tour of California (at least 8 were going).
What could be the top team in Florida this year, Bike America/Potters Landscapinig, were also there getting ready to go race in Belize next week. Also thrown in were Ricardo Hernandez (last years winner), Laser (Daniel Chavez who is Joels brother), and many other assorted amateur teams and rogues like Curtis and I. In all there were over 100 riders in the Pro 1,2 field.
The good news was that the start/finish was in the same spot each day, the bad news was we had to ride 10 miles each way to get there. Which wasn't a big deal, until the last day. The roads were narrow, full of pot holes and sand, with the assorted large debree thrown in for good measure. They also wanted us to observe the center line rule...jeesh! A pretty big ask for such a large field.
Stage 1: 3 Mile TT
We pedaled out for Curtis' 10:40 start time...I started at 11:08, so if Curtis was going to make us late...then he would only be hurting himself :-) We were told that it was a shorter distance to the start than it actually was, so we arrived just as Curtis was being called to the start house. I finished pinning his number on just as his 30 second man left the ramp. Not exactly the best way to start your TT.
Curtis let me know that the turnaround at the top of the hill wasn't marked well, and told me how to make it through the quickest way possible. This helped out a great deal, and made my job much easier. Coming back into a headwind made it really hard. Ricardo Hernandez was my 30 second man, and Ivan Franco started 30 seconds behind me...ouch. Anyhow I finished in 6:22, with Ricardo doing a 6:3?, and Ivan going just under my time with a 6:18. This placed me in 11th overall, and with 15 places in the overall, I hoped to hold my spot. Curtis paid for his efforts to make it to the start on time, and finished a bit further back.
We rode back to the hotel and got ready for the next stage at 4:00 pm...of course the elevators in our lovely hotel were stuck, so we walked the 8 flights to our room.
Stage2: 45 Mile Circuit Race
This was a 6-7 mile circuit and flat, with some scattered showers. Halfway through the race they had a bonus sprint for time, 3 seconds, 2 seconds and 1 second. Curtis suggested I go for the bonus sprint, instead of banking on a chaotic field sprint finish...this proved to be great advice. The race was fast and furious, with countless attacks. I think Curtis or I were in every one. The sprint lap came and Slipstream and Aerospace setup the pain train. I came out of the last corner on the inside about 15-20th place and sprinted to the front just as Aerospace was releasing Frank Travesio from his leadout...I was coming around him, but he got me by half a wheel. Eric Keim from Aerospace was 3rd. The race progressed when a large break formed toward the end of the race, Curtis recognized the danger and made a long solo bridge...ouch. Aerospace wanted to setup Travesio for the win, so they wouldn't work in the break, and started chasing it down. The break looked very diverse, with all the teams represented...but it was caught around the last lap. The last lap was quite a battle, it was pin-ball galore...so I didn't move up as far as I should have, and came in 20th making sure there weren't any time gaps between me or any of the leaders. Gene Dixon (Athens, GA race director) was there doing timings and results, so everyone had wireless transponders on their forks...so it would pick up any time gaps. With the 2 second time bonus, I had moved into 8th place. Ricardo Hernandez won the race.
At the end of the day, we ended up with 95 miles...and arrived back at the hotel in some nice misting rain...and the dark.
Stage3: 102 Mile Road Race
This was a 17 mile circuit with one hill that didn't seem like much in the beginning...but turned into my ass kicker in the waning laps. The first lap was once again crazy fast, and then slowed down slightly as we progressed. It got hot! I went through about 6-7 bottles, and those who know me...know I don't usually drink that much. I also stuffed down a ton of food. Curtis went with several breaks early on to make sure we were represented. There were 2 time bonus sprints today, but decided to not waste the bullets...and make sure I had a shot at finishing with the leaders. Aerospace's Trevesio was trying to unseat Slipstream's Will Fishkorn (he did a 6:01 TT!!) from the lead. Trevesio was 1 second behind after his bonus seconds and finish from yesterday.
With two laps to go, a large split happened in the field going over the hill about 1.5 miles before the finish. As I went over, I started cramping...and thought it was over. The group was almost out of site...a couple guys attacked and I jumped after them, knowing my race was over unless we caught the group. We ended up with about 6 of us, and we chase back on after a few miles...I was pretty cooked. Each lap Aerospace, Slipstream, and Rite-Aid would put in in the gutter in the very long crosswind section. This would be the finish of many riders race. By this time I REALLY was starting to cramp. We started up the hill where the feed zone was, going into the last lap...I grabbed my musset that had 2 water bottles and a gel. Both of my hamstrings locked...I got over the top and started chasing. The race carivan started passing me, and as Jonathan Vaughters went by, he was yelling in his teams race radios to drill it...not what I wanted to hear. I was able to muster the energy to pace back through the cars...and catch the group again. Now I had to make it over the hill one last time and stay with the leaders to preserve my place...oh, and not totally have my legs seize like a car engine running without oil!
As the Slipstream and Aerospace drilled the last lap, and up over the last hill...I barely made it. With the tailwind finish we were being led out at about 38 mph, and gaps started to form in the group. I was able to stay seated and power to the finish in 9th place...and make sure there weren't any gaps in time. I still haven't got word on my place on that stage, because Curtis and I had immediately ride back to the hotel to pack our bikes and head to the airport. That day we ended with about 125 miles...double ouch.
A couple of the guys ahead of me didn't make the split that happened about 2 laps to go...and 1 or 2 were dropped on the last lap. This helped me move up to 5th overall. Ricardo Hernandez won again (although not without contraversy). Curtis was able to cover the breaks when I couldn't, and paced me to the front when needed. We were a bit short handed this weekend, but we rode well together...and I appreciate him sacraficing his race to help our efforts. I can't wait to race full force.
We had a good trip, and some very hard miles. I haven't hurt that bad in a race in at least 3-4 years...probably the last time I did the Pro 1 race at Athens.
Final results from a Canadian online mag...
http://www.canadiancyclist.com/dailynews/February/2.4.071.07PM28.shtml
Full results from cyclingnews.com
http://www.cyclingnews.com/road.php?id=road/USA/2007/feb07/feb04bahamas
Stage 1:
James - 11th
Stage 2:
James - Field, with a 2 second time bonus sprint. 8th overall
Stage 3:
James - 9th. 5th overall (Top Amateur)
Cheers!
Sween
“Bring it on!” Race Series #3 (2/3/07)
From Truesport.com
“Bring it on!” Race Series #3
Alachua, FL
| February 03, 2007 |
The third and final stage of the “Bring it on!” series saw the coolest temperatures of the three stops, but still managed to defy the weather forecasts to stay dry.
The A grade finale was up for grabs as the points leader James Sweeney (American Bicycle) was absent to compete at the concurrent Tour of the Bahamas. While several riders were still within striking distance of his points total, the task proved too difficult. The closest contender, Bobby Sweeting (Aerospace Engineering-Toshiba-JetNetwork) aggressively sought the win early on, and found himself in the first real breakaway with Dan Larson (Cycle Science) and Jon Salsbury (JRC). This group was later joined by several other contenders to form a large selection of over 14 riders. After this reshuffle, the Cycle Science team sought a more favorable finishing mix with several successive attacks. Eventually, Jason Snow (Cycle Science) got clear for good with strongmen Jim Wright (JRC) and Gary Yates (Bike Route). Snow took the three up sprint clearly for the win and was followed in order by Wright and Yates. Larson managed to win the next tight sprint over Sweeting for 4th. Sweeney’s series lead held up though, and he was awarded the title in absentia. Jim Wright charged to a close 2nd, and Sweeting finished 3rd.
Like the A grade men, the Women’s event was also dominated by Cycle Science, with Cindy Tompkins taking the top spoils. Jackie Crowell (Cycle Science), who already had two straight victories in the series, again overcame a large handicap to help her teammate close the deal. In one of the toughest catches of the series, outmarkers, Kristin Bowers and Jessica Tomasello (both Atomic Racing) made the scratch markers, Crowell and Angela Connaughton (Helen’s), work hard to get on even terms. This came to pass in the closing laps and as the race wound down, Tompkins escaped with Alexis Dabroski (Team Florida) in tow. The veteran Tompkins won this battle for the win, while her teammates Crowell and Alane Balweg took the next two spots in the field sprint. Tomasello capped her hard ride with a very good sprint to round out the top 5.
The very large B grade event finale was split into two groups, Cat 4 and Cat 5, for fair play and safety.
The main B (Cat 4) race was nearly an exact replica of the previous weeks B race. Again, Wes Wolfenbarger (JRC), winner of week 1, and 15 yr old Mike Niemi (Chain Reaction), escaped together and charged out ahead. The script changed in their favor this time however, and they did manage to survive to the finish. Wolfenbarger dropped off the pace on the final lap and Niemi came through solo for his first ever race win. In the field sprint, the regional Colavita team put together a great leadout to take the 3rd and 5th place spots for Cody Vance and Adam Baker respectively. Local rider James Penrod (Cycle Logic) sandwiched between them for 4th. While the B series overall was a dead heat coming into the day, Wolfenbarger’s second place sealed it up, as the week two winner Ashish Patel (UF) punctured on the final lap, and Romero Gill (JRC) finished outside of the points positions.
The “bonus” B race (Cat 5) had plenty of action in its own right. In the end a small break of four stayed clear and Todd Ireland (Atomic Racing) narrowly beat Ed Joy(unattached) to the line for the victory. Talmadge Mincey(unattached) and Josh West(unattached) earned the 3rd and 4th spots respectively, and Thomas Hendry (Atomic Racing) won the field sprint for 5th.
The official Florida Points Series Calendar will begin next week with criteriums in Sanford and Lake Mary. www.floridacycling.com
Results and report courtesy of Team Florida Cycling
Women
1 Cindy Tompkins Cycle Science @1:30
2 Alexis Dabroski Team Florida @1:30
3 Jackie Crowell Cycle Science @2:15
4 Alane Balweg Cycle Science @1:30
5 Jessica Tomasello Atomic @0:45
6 Angela Connaugton Helen's @2:15
7 Christi-Ann Hansley Kenda @1:30
Men B (Cat4)
1 Mike Niemi Chain Reaction
2 Wes Wolfenbarger JRC
3 Cody Vance Colavita
4 James Penrod Cycle Logic
5 Adam Baker Colavita
6 Paul McManus unattached
7 Masoud Rezaei Velo Brew
8 Victor Arber Team Florida
9 Mike Sanford Team Florida
10 Paul Messal Cycle Logic
Men A
1 Jason Snow Cycle Science
2 Jim Wright JRC
3 Gary Yates Naples Cyclery
4 Dan Larson Cycle Science
5 Bobby Sweeting AEG/Toshiba/Jet Network
6 Dave Potter ASV
7 Chuck Jerabek JRC
8 Daryl Tompkins Bike Route
9 Rebecca Larson Aaron's Corporate Furnishing
Men B (Cat5)
1 Todd Ireland Atomic Racing
2 Ed Joy unattached
3 Talmadge Mincey unattached
4 Josh West unattached
5 Thomas Hendry Atomic Racing
6 Robert Stewart Velo Brew
7 Alastar Coomer Tunwald CC
SERIES RESULTS
A Grade
Rider TEAM Total
James Sweeney American Bicycle 10
Jim Wright JRC 9
Bobby Sweeting AEG/Toshiba/Jet Network 8
Jason Snow Cycle Science 7
Gary Yates Naples Cyclery 5
Kyle Wamsley Navigators 5
Winston David AEG/Toshiba/Jet Network 5
Dan Larson Cycle Science 3
Rebecca Larson Aaron's Corporate Furnishing 3
Roel Vanmuysen Klaipeda Splendid 3
Shane Braley Wheel and Sprocket 2
Chuck Jerabek JRC 2
Dave Potter ASV 1
B Grade
Rider TEAM Total
Wes Wolfenbarger unattached 11
Mike Niemi Chain Reaction 6
Adam Baker Colavita 6
Ashish Patel Team Florida 6
Romero Gill unattached 6
Victor Arber Team Florida 5
Cody Vance Colavita 4
Dayne Johnson Atomic Racing 4
James Penrod Cycle Logic 3
Joe Veglucci Higher Ground 3
Dan Heggblod Colavita 3
Josh Powe Team Florida 2
Brian Stalvey Colavita 2
Paul McManus unattached 1
Steve Deroche Cycle Logic 1
Women
Rider TEAM Total
Jackie Crowell Cycle Science 16
Cindy Tompkins Cycle Science 13
Alexis Dabroski Bike Route 5
Angela Connaugton Helen's 5
Amanda Tosh Team Florida 5
Christi-Ann Hansley Kenda 5
Marilyn Cullinane Naples Cyclery 4
Mandi Hall unattached 4
Alane Balweg Cycle Science 3
Jessica Tomasello Atomic Racing 2
Delene Beeland Team Florida 1
all rights reserved. © TrueSport.com 1997-2007
“Bring it on!” Race Series #3
Alachua, FL
| February 03, 2007 |
The third and final stage of the “Bring it on!” series saw the coolest temperatures of the three stops, but still managed to defy the weather forecasts to stay dry.
The A grade finale was up for grabs as the points leader James Sweeney (American Bicycle) was absent to compete at the concurrent Tour of the Bahamas. While several riders were still within striking distance of his points total, the task proved too difficult. The closest contender, Bobby Sweeting (Aerospace Engineering-Toshiba-JetNetwork) aggressively sought the win early on, and found himself in the first real breakaway with Dan Larson (Cycle Science) and Jon Salsbury (JRC). This group was later joined by several other contenders to form a large selection of over 14 riders. After this reshuffle, the Cycle Science team sought a more favorable finishing mix with several successive attacks. Eventually, Jason Snow (Cycle Science) got clear for good with strongmen Jim Wright (JRC) and Gary Yates (Bike Route). Snow took the three up sprint clearly for the win and was followed in order by Wright and Yates. Larson managed to win the next tight sprint over Sweeting for 4th. Sweeney’s series lead held up though, and he was awarded the title in absentia. Jim Wright charged to a close 2nd, and Sweeting finished 3rd.
Like the A grade men, the Women’s event was also dominated by Cycle Science, with Cindy Tompkins taking the top spoils. Jackie Crowell (Cycle Science), who already had two straight victories in the series, again overcame a large handicap to help her teammate close the deal. In one of the toughest catches of the series, outmarkers, Kristin Bowers and Jessica Tomasello (both Atomic Racing) made the scratch markers, Crowell and Angela Connaughton (Helen’s), work hard to get on even terms. This came to pass in the closing laps and as the race wound down, Tompkins escaped with Alexis Dabroski (Team Florida) in tow. The veteran Tompkins won this battle for the win, while her teammates Crowell and Alane Balweg took the next two spots in the field sprint. Tomasello capped her hard ride with a very good sprint to round out the top 5.
The very large B grade event finale was split into two groups, Cat 4 and Cat 5, for fair play and safety.
The main B (Cat 4) race was nearly an exact replica of the previous weeks B race. Again, Wes Wolfenbarger (JRC), winner of week 1, and 15 yr old Mike Niemi (Chain Reaction), escaped together and charged out ahead. The script changed in their favor this time however, and they did manage to survive to the finish. Wolfenbarger dropped off the pace on the final lap and Niemi came through solo for his first ever race win. In the field sprint, the regional Colavita team put together a great leadout to take the 3rd and 5th place spots for Cody Vance and Adam Baker respectively. Local rider James Penrod (Cycle Logic) sandwiched between them for 4th. While the B series overall was a dead heat coming into the day, Wolfenbarger’s second place sealed it up, as the week two winner Ashish Patel (UF) punctured on the final lap, and Romero Gill (JRC) finished outside of the points positions.
The “bonus” B race (Cat 5) had plenty of action in its own right. In the end a small break of four stayed clear and Todd Ireland (Atomic Racing) narrowly beat Ed Joy(unattached) to the line for the victory. Talmadge Mincey(unattached) and Josh West(unattached) earned the 3rd and 4th spots respectively, and Thomas Hendry (Atomic Racing) won the field sprint for 5th.
The official Florida Points Series Calendar will begin next week with criteriums in Sanford and Lake Mary. www.floridacycling.com
Results and report courtesy of Team Florida Cycling
Women
1 Cindy Tompkins Cycle Science @1:30
2 Alexis Dabroski Team Florida @1:30
3 Jackie Crowell Cycle Science @2:15
4 Alane Balweg Cycle Science @1:30
5 Jessica Tomasello Atomic @0:45
6 Angela Connaugton Helen's @2:15
7 Christi-Ann Hansley Kenda @1:30
Men B (Cat4)
1 Mike Niemi Chain Reaction
2 Wes Wolfenbarger JRC
3 Cody Vance Colavita
4 James Penrod Cycle Logic
5 Adam Baker Colavita
6 Paul McManus unattached
7 Masoud Rezaei Velo Brew
8 Victor Arber Team Florida
9 Mike Sanford Team Florida
10 Paul Messal Cycle Logic
Men A
1 Jason Snow Cycle Science
2 Jim Wright JRC
3 Gary Yates Naples Cyclery
4 Dan Larson Cycle Science
5 Bobby Sweeting AEG/Toshiba/Jet Network
6 Dave Potter ASV
7 Chuck Jerabek JRC
8 Daryl Tompkins Bike Route
9 Rebecca Larson Aaron's Corporate Furnishing
Men B (Cat5)
1 Todd Ireland Atomic Racing
2 Ed Joy unattached
3 Talmadge Mincey unattached
4 Josh West unattached
5 Thomas Hendry Atomic Racing
6 Robert Stewart Velo Brew
7 Alastar Coomer Tunwald CC
SERIES RESULTS
A Grade
Rider TEAM Total
James Sweeney American Bicycle 10
Jim Wright JRC 9
Bobby Sweeting AEG/Toshiba/Jet Network 8
Jason Snow Cycle Science 7
Gary Yates Naples Cyclery 5
Kyle Wamsley Navigators 5
Winston David AEG/Toshiba/Jet Network 5
Dan Larson Cycle Science 3
Rebecca Larson Aaron's Corporate Furnishing 3
Roel Vanmuysen Klaipeda Splendid 3
Shane Braley Wheel and Sprocket 2
Chuck Jerabek JRC 2
Dave Potter ASV 1
B Grade
Rider TEAM Total
Wes Wolfenbarger unattached 11
Mike Niemi Chain Reaction 6
Adam Baker Colavita 6
Ashish Patel Team Florida 6
Romero Gill unattached 6
Victor Arber Team Florida 5
Cody Vance Colavita 4
Dayne Johnson Atomic Racing 4
James Penrod Cycle Logic 3
Joe Veglucci Higher Ground 3
Dan Heggblod Colavita 3
Josh Powe Team Florida 2
Brian Stalvey Colavita 2
Paul McManus unattached 1
Steve Deroche Cycle Logic 1
Women
Rider TEAM Total
Jackie Crowell Cycle Science 16
Cindy Tompkins Cycle Science 13
Alexis Dabroski Bike Route 5
Angela Connaugton Helen's 5
Amanda Tosh Team Florida 5
Christi-Ann Hansley Kenda 5
Marilyn Cullinane Naples Cyclery 4
Mandi Hall unattached 4
Alane Balweg Cycle Science 3
Jessica Tomasello Atomic Racing 2
Delene Beeland Team Florida 1
all rights reserved. © TrueSport.com 1997-2007
“Bring it on!” Race Series #2 (1/27/07)
From Truesport.com
“Bring it on!” Race Series #2
Alachua, FL
| January 27, 2007 |
The second “Bring it on!” series race in Alachua, FL enjoyed another great day.
The A grade race featured another difficult battle with some young guns emerging from the shootout. After initial flurries of attacks, a large group formed that included many of the previous week’s aggressors. Again Jim Wright (JRC) Gary Yates (Bike Route), Shane Braley (Wheel and Sprocket), James Sweeney (American Bicycle), Chuck Jerabek (JRC), Roel Vanmuysen (BEL, Klaipeda Splendid), Ryan Saylor (Cycle Science), and Dan Larson (Cycle Science) were in the mix. They were also joined by some new faces including Jason Snow (Cyclescience), Jon Salsbury (JRC), and two young professionals from the Aerospace Engineering-Toshiba-JetNetwork team, Bobby Sweeting and Winston David. The 14+ rider group proved rather “heavy” and only just dangled in front of the chasing field. Eventually, the efforts among the lead group allowed them to pull away, but not for any true organization.
This back and forth battle up front eventually saw Sweeting and Vanmuysen escaping in the closing laps. This duo’s tenuous lead evaporated on the final lap with the field nipping at their heals on the charge to the finish. Sweeting did manage to hold on for the win, and for icing on the cake his teammate David bolted out of the remainder of the lead group to claim second. Last week’s winner James Sweeney charged up to 3rd while Vanmuysen hung on for 4th.
The Women’s event was again dominated by Jackie Crowell (Cycle Science), who easily eliminated her increased handicap and rode on alone for her second straight victory of the series. The field behind came charging in en masse and Christ-An Hansley (Kenda) bested the rest for 2nd. Local hammer and former pro Angela Connaughton (Helen’s) claimed 3rd and rising star newcomer Amanda Tosh took an impressive 4th.
The B grade event served up all the suspense and action of a top pro event. Early on, two riders, Wes Wolfenbarger (JRC), winner of week 1, and 15 yr old Mike Niemi (Chain Reaction), built a quick advantage. This lead was steadily built to a maximum of 1 minute, but then began to fall as the finish drew near. While Wolfenbarger dropped off the pace, Niemi continued the fight to the bitter end. The field finally made contact with him a half a mile to go, and the race ended with an wily field sprint. In the final turn Masoud Rezaei (Velo Brew) led, but clipped a pedal and nearly lost control. Several riders pounced on this misstep and it was Ashish Patel (UF) who took a razor thin, photo finish win from Romero Gill (JRC). Close behind, it was Dayne Johnson (Atomic Racing), Joe Veglucci (Higher Ground), and Josh Powe (UF) taking 3rd-5th respectively.
Going into the final week, James Sweeney has a comfortable lead in the A series, Jackie Crowell has effectively clinched the Women’s series, and there is a three way tie for for the B grade title between, the two race winners Wes Wolfenbarger and Ashish Patel, and the consistent place getter, Romero Gill.
RACE REUSLTS
Women
1 Jackie Crowell Cycle Science @2:15
2 Christi-Ann Hansley Kenda @1:30
3 Angela Connaugton Helen's @2:15
4 Amanda Tosh Team Florida @1:00
5 Cindy Tompkins Cycle Science @2:15
6 Mandi Hall unattached @1:30
7 Delene Beeland Team Florida @1:00
8 Heather Davis Team Florida @1:00
9 Alex Lechner Team Florida @1:00
10 Alexis Dabroski Team Florida @1:30
11 Kristin Donahue Team Florida @1:00
12 Hannah Kirshner Circle A @0:00
13 Megan Giesa Team Florida @0:00
14 Justin Pfaff Cycle Logic @0:00
Men B
1 Ashish Patel Team Florida
2 Romero Gill unattached
3 Dayne Johnson Atomic Racing
4 Joe Veglucci Higher Ground
5 Josh Powe Team Florida
6 Steve Deroche Cycle Logic
7 Masoud Rezaei Velo Brew
8 Anthony Musalo Cycle Logic
9 Mike Niemi unattached
10 Michael Chiavella Team Florida
11 Matt Greene Team Florida
12 Mike Sanford Team Florida
13 Young-Ki Chang Team Florida
Men A
1 Bobby Sweeting AEG/Toshiba/JetNetwork
2 Winston David AEG/Toshiba/JetNetwork
3 James Sweeney American Bicycle
4 Roel Vanmuysen Klaipeda Splendid
5 Chuck Jerabek JRC
6 Jason Snow Cycle Science
7 Shane Braley Wheel and Sprocket
8 Gary Yates Naples Cyclery
9 Jim Wright JRC
10 John Salsbury JRC
SERIES STANDINGS AFTER RACE #2
A Grade
Rider TEAM Total
James Sweeney American Bicycle 10
Bobby Sweeting AEG/Toshiba/Jet Network 6
Kyle Wamsley Navigators 5
Winston David AEG/Toshiba/Jet Network 5
Jim Wright JRC 4
Rebecca Larson Aaron's Corporate Furnishing 3
Roel Vanmuysen Klaipeda Splendid 3
Shane Braley Wheel and Sprocket 2
Chuck Jerabek JRC 2
Gary Yates Naples Cyclery 1
Jason Snow Cycle Science 1
B Grade
Rider TEAM Total
Wes Wolfenbarger unattached 6
Romero Gill unattached 6
Ashish Patel Team Florida 6
Victor Arber Team Florida 5
Adam Baker Colavita 4
Dayne Johnson Atomic Racing 4
Dan Heggblod Colavita 3
Joe Veglucci Higher Ground 3
Brian Stalvey Colavita 2
Josh Powe Team Florida 2
Steve Deroche Cycle Logic 1
Women
Rider TEAM Total
Jackie Crowell Cycle Science 12
Cindy Tompkins Cycle Science 7
Amanda Tosh Team Florida 5
Christi-Ann Hansley Kenda 5
Marilyn Cullinane Naples Cyclery 4
Mandi Hall unattached 4
Angela Connaugton Helen's 4
Delene Beeland Team Florida 1
Results and report courtesy of Team Florida Cycling
all rights reserved. © TrueSport.com 1997-2007
“Bring it on!” Race Series #2
Alachua, FL
| January 27, 2007 |
The second “Bring it on!” series race in Alachua, FL enjoyed another great day.
The A grade race featured another difficult battle with some young guns emerging from the shootout. After initial flurries of attacks, a large group formed that included many of the previous week’s aggressors. Again Jim Wright (JRC) Gary Yates (Bike Route), Shane Braley (Wheel and Sprocket), James Sweeney (American Bicycle), Chuck Jerabek (JRC), Roel Vanmuysen (BEL, Klaipeda Splendid), Ryan Saylor (Cycle Science), and Dan Larson (Cycle Science) were in the mix. They were also joined by some new faces including Jason Snow (Cyclescience), Jon Salsbury (JRC), and two young professionals from the Aerospace Engineering-Toshiba-JetNetwork team, Bobby Sweeting and Winston David. The 14+ rider group proved rather “heavy” and only just dangled in front of the chasing field. Eventually, the efforts among the lead group allowed them to pull away, but not for any true organization.
This back and forth battle up front eventually saw Sweeting and Vanmuysen escaping in the closing laps. This duo’s tenuous lead evaporated on the final lap with the field nipping at their heals on the charge to the finish. Sweeting did manage to hold on for the win, and for icing on the cake his teammate David bolted out of the remainder of the lead group to claim second. Last week’s winner James Sweeney charged up to 3rd while Vanmuysen hung on for 4th.
The Women’s event was again dominated by Jackie Crowell (Cycle Science), who easily eliminated her increased handicap and rode on alone for her second straight victory of the series. The field behind came charging in en masse and Christ-An Hansley (Kenda) bested the rest for 2nd. Local hammer and former pro Angela Connaughton (Helen’s) claimed 3rd and rising star newcomer Amanda Tosh took an impressive 4th.
The B grade event served up all the suspense and action of a top pro event. Early on, two riders, Wes Wolfenbarger (JRC), winner of week 1, and 15 yr old Mike Niemi (Chain Reaction), built a quick advantage. This lead was steadily built to a maximum of 1 minute, but then began to fall as the finish drew near. While Wolfenbarger dropped off the pace, Niemi continued the fight to the bitter end. The field finally made contact with him a half a mile to go, and the race ended with an wily field sprint. In the final turn Masoud Rezaei (Velo Brew) led, but clipped a pedal and nearly lost control. Several riders pounced on this misstep and it was Ashish Patel (UF) who took a razor thin, photo finish win from Romero Gill (JRC). Close behind, it was Dayne Johnson (Atomic Racing), Joe Veglucci (Higher Ground), and Josh Powe (UF) taking 3rd-5th respectively.
Going into the final week, James Sweeney has a comfortable lead in the A series, Jackie Crowell has effectively clinched the Women’s series, and there is a three way tie for for the B grade title between, the two race winners Wes Wolfenbarger and Ashish Patel, and the consistent place getter, Romero Gill.
RACE REUSLTS
Women
1 Jackie Crowell Cycle Science @2:15
2 Christi-Ann Hansley Kenda @1:30
3 Angela Connaugton Helen's @2:15
4 Amanda Tosh Team Florida @1:00
5 Cindy Tompkins Cycle Science @2:15
6 Mandi Hall unattached @1:30
7 Delene Beeland Team Florida @1:00
8 Heather Davis Team Florida @1:00
9 Alex Lechner Team Florida @1:00
10 Alexis Dabroski Team Florida @1:30
11 Kristin Donahue Team Florida @1:00
12 Hannah Kirshner Circle A @0:00
13 Megan Giesa Team Florida @0:00
14 Justin Pfaff Cycle Logic @0:00
Men B
1 Ashish Patel Team Florida
2 Romero Gill unattached
3 Dayne Johnson Atomic Racing
4 Joe Veglucci Higher Ground
5 Josh Powe Team Florida
6 Steve Deroche Cycle Logic
7 Masoud Rezaei Velo Brew
8 Anthony Musalo Cycle Logic
9 Mike Niemi unattached
10 Michael Chiavella Team Florida
11 Matt Greene Team Florida
12 Mike Sanford Team Florida
13 Young-Ki Chang Team Florida
Men A
1 Bobby Sweeting AEG/Toshiba/JetNetwork
2 Winston David AEG/Toshiba/JetNetwork
3 James Sweeney American Bicycle
4 Roel Vanmuysen Klaipeda Splendid
5 Chuck Jerabek JRC
6 Jason Snow Cycle Science
7 Shane Braley Wheel and Sprocket
8 Gary Yates Naples Cyclery
9 Jim Wright JRC
10 John Salsbury JRC
SERIES STANDINGS AFTER RACE #2
A Grade
Rider TEAM Total
James Sweeney American Bicycle 10
Bobby Sweeting AEG/Toshiba/Jet Network 6
Kyle Wamsley Navigators 5
Winston David AEG/Toshiba/Jet Network 5
Jim Wright JRC 4
Rebecca Larson Aaron's Corporate Furnishing 3
Roel Vanmuysen Klaipeda Splendid 3
Shane Braley Wheel and Sprocket 2
Chuck Jerabek JRC 2
Gary Yates Naples Cyclery 1
Jason Snow Cycle Science 1
B Grade
Rider TEAM Total
Wes Wolfenbarger unattached 6
Romero Gill unattached 6
Ashish Patel Team Florida 6
Victor Arber Team Florida 5
Adam Baker Colavita 4
Dayne Johnson Atomic Racing 4
Dan Heggblod Colavita 3
Joe Veglucci Higher Ground 3
Brian Stalvey Colavita 2
Josh Powe Team Florida 2
Steve Deroche Cycle Logic 1
Women
Rider TEAM Total
Jackie Crowell Cycle Science 12
Cindy Tompkins Cycle Science 7
Amanda Tosh Team Florida 5
Christi-Ann Hansley Kenda 5
Marilyn Cullinane Naples Cyclery 4
Mandi Hall unattached 4
Angela Connaugton Helen's 4
Delene Beeland Team Florida 1
Results and report courtesy of Team Florida Cycling
all rights reserved. © TrueSport.com 1997-2007
“Bring it on!” Race Series #1 (1/20/07)
From Truesport.com
“Bring it on!” Race Series #1
Alachua, FL
| January 20, 2007 |
As some of the earliest races hosted in the US each season, the traditional “Bring it on!” series in Alachua, FL serves as an icebreaker for many riders in the Southeast and Florida. The current edition continued to offer some opportunities to shake off the cobwebs against some excellent competition.
The A grade race featured Kyle Wamsley (Navigators) taking on a group full of current and former masters national champions, former state champions and up and coming local elite. The race, and the season, was opened by masters champion Jim Wright (JRC), who wasted no time by attacking straight off the line. The groggy group took its time rolling up to speed and after several stop and go efforts, two chase groups eventually formed. The first contained Gary Yates (Bike Route), Phil Bailey (UF), Shane Braley (Cycle Science), James Sweeney (American Bicycle), and Rebecca Larson (Aaron’s Corp. Furnishings), and the second was composed of Wamsley, Chuck Jerabek (JRC), Roel Vanmuysen (BEL, Klaipeda Splendid), Ryan Saylor (Cycle Science), and Dan Larson (Cycle Science).
As all of the above riders hammered away after one another, the field drifted further back and was soon in jeopardy of being lapped by them all. By the time the race hit 5 laps to go, all eleven workers had taken the lap advantage and were on even terms with one another. This set the stage for a hard mass sprint to the line. In the end, masters rider James Sweeney bested the Continental pro Wamsley, while the day’s first attacker, Wright, finished in 3rd. On top of this, Wright’s aggressive efforts also claimed 7 of the 10 offered primes. Rebecca Larson had a strong finish to claim 4th, and Braley rounded out the top 5.
The Women’s event was headlined by Jackie Crowell (Cycle Science), a reigning junior national champion, making her official senior debut. After making quick work of the handicap, Jackie forged on alone and ended the event with a considerable advantage. Her teammate Cindy Tompkins had a strong sprint to seal 2nd, and Naples Cyclery rider Marilyn Cullinane completed the podium.
In the B grade race, a large, varied group battled throughout the duration of their event for multiple primes and prizes. This constant activity inhibited effective breakaways, and the group ultimately came to the line en masse. When the dust settled, Wes Wolfenbarger (unattached) came in for a clear sprint win ahead of Victor Arber (Team Florida), and Adam Baker (Colavita Regional). Two more Colavita regional riders, Dan Heggblod, and Brian Stalvey claimed 4th and 5th respectively.
Results and report courtesy of Team Florida Cycling
Women - 15 miles
1 Jackie Crowell Cycle Science @1:35
2 Cindy Tompkins Cycle Science @1:35
3 Marilyn Cullinane Naples Cyclery @1:35
4 Mandi Hall unattached @1:35
5 Amanda Tosh Team Florida @:00
6 Delene Beeland Team Florida @1:00
7 Heather Davis Team Florida @1:00
8 Kristin Donahue Team Florida @1:00
9 Alex Lechner Team Florida @1:00
10 Tracy Wallace Team Florida @1:00
11 Megan Giesa Team Florida @:00
12 Kelli Ritari unattached @:00
13 Stefanie Sherrill Team Florida @:00
Men B - 23 miles
1 Wes Wolfenbarger unattached
2 Victor Arber Team Florida
3 Adam Baker Colavita
4 Dan Heggblod Colavita
5 Brian Stalvey Colavita
6 Romero Gill unattached
Men A - 27.5 miles
1 James Sweeney American Bicycle
2 Kyle Wamsley Navigators
3 Jim Wright JRC
4 Rebecca Larson Aaron's Corporate Furnishing
5 Shane Braley Cycle Science
6 Gary Yates Naples Cyclery
7 Roel Vanmuysen Klaipeda Splendid
8 Chuck Jerabek JRC
9 Ryan Saylor Cycle Science
10 Dan Larson Cycle Science
11 Phil Bailey Team Florida
12 Scott Pfaff Cycle Logic
13 Andrew Holland Naples Cyclery
14 Masoud Reznel Velo Brew
15 Lorne Johnson Bike Route
16 Dave Comiskey Team Florida
all rights reserved. © TrueSport.com 1997-2007
“Bring it on!” Race Series #1
Alachua, FL
| January 20, 2007 |
As some of the earliest races hosted in the US each season, the traditional “Bring it on!” series in Alachua, FL serves as an icebreaker for many riders in the Southeast and Florida. The current edition continued to offer some opportunities to shake off the cobwebs against some excellent competition.
The A grade race featured Kyle Wamsley (Navigators) taking on a group full of current and former masters national champions, former state champions and up and coming local elite. The race, and the season, was opened by masters champion Jim Wright (JRC), who wasted no time by attacking straight off the line. The groggy group took its time rolling up to speed and after several stop and go efforts, two chase groups eventually formed. The first contained Gary Yates (Bike Route), Phil Bailey (UF), Shane Braley (Cycle Science), James Sweeney (American Bicycle), and Rebecca Larson (Aaron’s Corp. Furnishings), and the second was composed of Wamsley, Chuck Jerabek (JRC), Roel Vanmuysen (BEL, Klaipeda Splendid), Ryan Saylor (Cycle Science), and Dan Larson (Cycle Science).
As all of the above riders hammered away after one another, the field drifted further back and was soon in jeopardy of being lapped by them all. By the time the race hit 5 laps to go, all eleven workers had taken the lap advantage and were on even terms with one another. This set the stage for a hard mass sprint to the line. In the end, masters rider James Sweeney bested the Continental pro Wamsley, while the day’s first attacker, Wright, finished in 3rd. On top of this, Wright’s aggressive efforts also claimed 7 of the 10 offered primes. Rebecca Larson had a strong finish to claim 4th, and Braley rounded out the top 5.
The Women’s event was headlined by Jackie Crowell (Cycle Science), a reigning junior national champion, making her official senior debut. After making quick work of the handicap, Jackie forged on alone and ended the event with a considerable advantage. Her teammate Cindy Tompkins had a strong sprint to seal 2nd, and Naples Cyclery rider Marilyn Cullinane completed the podium.
In the B grade race, a large, varied group battled throughout the duration of their event for multiple primes and prizes. This constant activity inhibited effective breakaways, and the group ultimately came to the line en masse. When the dust settled, Wes Wolfenbarger (unattached) came in for a clear sprint win ahead of Victor Arber (Team Florida), and Adam Baker (Colavita Regional). Two more Colavita regional riders, Dan Heggblod, and Brian Stalvey claimed 4th and 5th respectively.
Results and report courtesy of Team Florida Cycling
Women - 15 miles
1 Jackie Crowell Cycle Science @1:35
2 Cindy Tompkins Cycle Science @1:35
3 Marilyn Cullinane Naples Cyclery @1:35
4 Mandi Hall unattached @1:35
5 Amanda Tosh Team Florida @:00
6 Delene Beeland Team Florida @1:00
7 Heather Davis Team Florida @1:00
8 Kristin Donahue Team Florida @1:00
9 Alex Lechner Team Florida @1:00
10 Tracy Wallace Team Florida @1:00
11 Megan Giesa Team Florida @:00
12 Kelli Ritari unattached @:00
13 Stefanie Sherrill Team Florida @:00
Men B - 23 miles
1 Wes Wolfenbarger unattached
2 Victor Arber Team Florida
3 Adam Baker Colavita
4 Dan Heggblod Colavita
5 Brian Stalvey Colavita
6 Romero Gill unattached
Men A - 27.5 miles
1 James Sweeney American Bicycle
2 Kyle Wamsley Navigators
3 Jim Wright JRC
4 Rebecca Larson Aaron's Corporate Furnishing
5 Shane Braley Cycle Science
6 Gary Yates Naples Cyclery
7 Roel Vanmuysen Klaipeda Splendid
8 Chuck Jerabek JRC
9 Ryan Saylor Cycle Science
10 Dan Larson Cycle Science
11 Phil Bailey Team Florida
12 Scott Pfaff Cycle Logic
13 Andrew Holland Naples Cyclery
14 Masoud Reznel Velo Brew
15 Lorne Johnson Bike Route
16 Dave Comiskey Team Florida
all rights reserved. © TrueSport.com 1997-2007
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