March 27, 2008
Rower Turned Cyclist
Rebecca Romero is in line to make history at the Beijing Olympics. If this year goes well for her, she could be only the second woman to ever win medals in consecutive games but different sports.
Romero won the Olympic silver and World Championships gold as a rower but became frustrated by what she describes as a lack of personal athletic development in the sport. She came close to quitting sports entirely, but a stint in injury rehab lead her to a cycling coach who had faith in her potential as a cyclist. And she's making pretty impressive strides.
Read the interview on PezCycling News.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 11:04 PM | Permalink | TrackBack
March 12, 2008
Team Oregon Wants to Expand
Jim Anderson, of the PIR racing nights fame, sent me this message:
Looking to learn about bicycle racing and want a group to ride with? Team Oregon is looking to expand its roster 2008.
Team Oregon, a local cycling team, is looking to continue its growth and is always accepting new members. The team was established in 1988, and has had a long track record in Oregon racing. The roster of the team has included all levels of cycling talent from national champions to entry level and recreational riders looking to just have a good group to ride with.
Each Saturday morning, rain or shine we have held the Saturday Team Oregon Ride west of Portland. This is a great opportunity to see the team in action. The ride runs year round and accepts cyclists of all levels of
development that want to improve their cycling skills and fitness. Each weekend new people show up and continue to become part of the team. We pride ourselves on being approachable to anyone (not just racers) that wants to learn about cycling or improve. The Saturday ride meets at Liberty High School in Hillsboro at 9:30am every Saturday morning.
Team members are active in the Oregon bicycle racing community, and have assisted in organizing events, and volunteering at races/events. We are a passionate group that gives back to the community that we are very much tied to.
For 2008, we have partnered with Sunset Cycles as our title sponsor. Sunset Cycles has all the top gear to support our team.
To learn more or to join in on a ride with Team Oregon/Sunset Cycles please visit our website.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 6:01 PM | Permalink | TrackBack
November 23, 2007
Kruger's Crossing
This Sunday, Portland Racing brings you the second edition of the Kruger's Crossing Cyclocross Classic - so awesome last year they had to bring it back. This epic race is held at Kruger's Farm, located in the beautiful countryside of Sauvie Island and only 20 minutes from downtown Portland.
In addition to the challenges November weather gods will throw at racers, you can expect a wild course that leads you along rutted farm roads, through berry fields, pastures, a barn, a beer garden and of course the much-heralded corn maze. And don't worry about getting cold - the organizers are staging a bonfire along the course to keep people toasty. Indeed, not your standard cross race.
The party that surrounds the racing features beer, hot wine, hot cider and gourmet food catered by Kruger's Farm Market and Salvador Molly's. Family racers and aspiring kids can participate in the free kiddie race.
Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 9:18 PM | Permalink | TrackBack
October 31, 2007
Yeah, this is Cyclocross
Halloween cyclocross, does bike life get any better? Kegs, costumes, cow bells, racing and hundreds of really fun people. If you've been out at the races lately, you've probably noticed the three-wheeled videographer Dan Kaufman. Dan, of CrankMyChain, has been documenting the races as part of his online video series on bike culture. The tricycle to allow him to ride along with the fun while shooting footage. This latest video (see below) was shot at the Halloween cyclocross race at the Astoria fairgrounds. You can check out more of Dan's work on his website.
Just goes to show... around these parts, we don't just ride our bikes to ride our bikes. We take it to the extreme, we really know how to have fun. Cyclocross? This is how we do it here:
Comments (2) | Posted by orbike at 8:03 PM | Permalink | TrackBack
October 12, 2007
The Age of Discovery - Cyclocross Style
Cross Crusade is offering a chance to win a round trip voyage to the World Championships in Treviso, Italy, but you have to earn it. The Age of Discovery quest starts today.
They'll provide the map, you follow the course and look for fragments of other explorers' bikes or The Grail itself. The course may be ridden at any time, in any direction and in segments as frequently as desired. New fragments will be distributed on the course over the duration of the contest. Fragments may also be found where a cross is marked on the map. The Grail is out there somewhere now! The contest ends on December 2nd at the Cross Crusade Series Awards Celebration.
The finder of The Grail will win a round trip ticket to Italy to see the '08 World Cyclocross Championships. Anyone who finds fragments is eligible for free swag at the awards dinner, but you must race at least one Cross Crusade race to participate.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 4:30 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
October 1, 2007
Outlaw Cyclocross Series
They love their cyclocross in Southern Oregon and pride themselves on races that have a hometown welcoming feel. Every year the Outlaw Cyclocross Series is dedicated to Nick Jensen who died in 2000 while swimming in the Illinois River. Nick was an avid sportsman and the Nick Jensen Memorial Fund has donated over $100,000 in equipment to Josephine County Search and Rescue, a non-profit volunteer organization. Proceeds from the cyclocross series will benefit Search and Rescue.
There is an array of raffle prizes totaling over $4,000. Their goal is to raise as much money as possible while having as much FUN as possible. The first race takes place in Yreka, CA, but all other races are in the Grants Pass area.
Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 10:53 PM | Permalink | TrackBack
September 18, 2007
Women: Get Ready to Race!
Janis McDonald runs the Women on Bike program and she has joined forces with Barb Grover (from the Bike Gallery) and Alison Hill Graves (from the Community Cycling Center) to get women talking more about issues related to women in cycling.
Janis send me this announcement today:
"Ever have that urge to try your legs at racing? Then your knees start to tremble at the sheer thought of getting on the course? We've all been there. The uncertainty of registering, training, the ability of finishing the race. Join our fabulous panel of racers from the I-just-want-to-have-fun to the I-am-the-champion. These ladies will talk about how to get started and their personal experiences in a variety of races - cyclocross, road, time trials, mountain, and track. Plus, OBRA will be there to demystify the rules and regulations of racing. Feel free to invite your friends - everyone welcome! Details: September 27th, Thursday, 6:30-8pm (doors lock at 6:40pm) Portland Building Room C - 1120 SW 5th Ave (Between Main and Madison) Perhaps heading out afterward to continue conversations - perhaps Lucky Lab."
Looks like fun!
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August 25, 2007
Congrats, Mark Ginsberg!!
Full details about the Health Net Portland Twilight Crit will come shortly, but we here at ORbike want to take this moment to send a HUGE congrats out to local racer, bike lawyer, bike advocate and dad Mark Ginsberg who so deservedly won the Master's race. I could fill entire web pages with good things to say about the admirable work Mark has done to promote and advocate for cycling in Portland. Cheers, Mark!
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 7:48 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
August 24, 2007
US National Crit Champ is Racing in Portland
Kirk Obee, the 2007 US National Criterium Champion, is one of the Team Health Net racers coming to the Health Net Portland Twilight Crit this Friday in the North Park Blocks. Kirk is a three-time United States national champion. In 1997, he captured the USPRO Championship in pursuit; followed in 2001 to become the USPRO Criterium Champion. In 2007, he again won the USPRO Criterium Championship in Downers Grove, IL, while finishing second overall in the race to Canadian Martin Gilbert.
Also on the roster from Team Health Net this Friday are Doug Ollerenshaw, Roman Kilun and John Murphy. Other racers are coming from all over the US and Canada. Watch out, North Park Blocks!
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 10:00 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
SS Pussycat : The Fountain Ride
The SS Pussycat is an annual Portland alley cat open to women and transgendered riders only. The ride meets at the Jamison Square Fountain at noon on Saturday. It's not just about speed, racers can also opt to be judged on their spirit (and take an entirely different course). Costumes are encouraged for this approx. two-hour ride. Prizes this year are awesome and include a four hour frame building workshop with Sacha White of Vanilla Bicycles for the winner and a friend, a full bicycle fitting from Michael Sylvester of Bicycle Fitting Services, a Chris King headset, a Timbuk2 messenger bag from Team Estogen, Deller Designs cycling hats and more. The organizers are hoping to award a prize to just about every participant.
Admission is $5 plus, curiously, a plastic water bottle that racers will need for some of the on-course challenges. If you're a trans rider, Veloshop will comp your entry.
Sounds like tons of fun to watch or race. Men are encourage to come watch, cheer and volunteer. For more info, contact Bethany Berson, postbethany [at] hotmail.com .
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 9:42 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
August 22, 2007
Racer Profile: Doug Ollerenshaw
The Health Net Portland Twilight Criterium comes to the North Park Blocks this Friday. This cool event is a chance to watch pro racing right here in Portland. You stand in the middle of the park blocks and the racers speed around the streets that ring the park- so close you can feel your arm hairs flutter. It's totally free and super fun.
Professional racer Doug Ollerenshaw lives in Portland and he'll be racing in the Crit. He races for Team Health Net, the top team in the US for the last three years (and they're looking really good for this year). I interviewed Doug on the KBOO Bike Show back in July, and I recently caught up with him again to talk about the upcoming Crit.
Doug has taken part in the Crit every year since it began. "Unfortunately," Doug says "I've never done particularly well in this race. The first time I did it I crashed twice and barely finished. I've only managed mid-pack finishes the other times. It's such an exciting event though, I'd really love to change that this year." Doug has been racing all summer and he says the season has gone reasonably well so far, "I've mainly ridden in support of teammates, and the team's had a lot of success this year. As for personal results, they've been a little slim. But some of the biggest races of the year are still coming up. A week later I'll be doing the professional road nationals in Greenville, NC, racing against guys like Levi Leipheimer and George Hincapie. One week later still, I'll be finishing the season at the seven-day Tour of Britain, going from London to Glasgow. It should be a great way to finish off the year."
Pro racer, what does that really mean? "Technically, anyone who is a member of a Union Cycliste International registered professional team is a professional cyclist. There are approximately 150 professional road cyclists in the US. What it means in practice is lots of travel and dedication to the sport, in return for little pay. Professional cycling is not a rich sport, especially in the US. Nonetheless, the competition is very good." Doug says he loves racing for Team Health Net, and not just because they're a top-ranking team. "There are so many details to be attended to," he says, and Health Net covers them all. "Whether it be booking air travel, maintaining the bikes, or mixing water bottles - Health Net takes care of it so we can just focus on the racing."
So after all that traveling, Doug's about to return to his home turf. "I'm looking forward to getting to race in front of so many friends and family. I spend most of my time racing in front of complete strangers, so to hear my name being screamed all around the course is certainly special. And the Portland crowd is so rowdy, so excited to be watching the race, it just makes for an incredible atmosphere. Bike racing in the best bike town in the US just makes a perfect fit. It's really a lot of fun to be a part of."
And though there will be eight-10 professional cyclists racing against amateurs, Doug says you aren't likely to see much more than a small difference in the riding skill. He's proud to brag about the many skilled amateur locals.
This year the Crit has a new course in the North Park Blocks. Doug happens to live nine blocks away and he says he is definitely familiar with the area. "I think it'll be another great course for spectators and racers alike. It'll be flatter than the old course by the art museum, which should lead to safer and more exciting racing. I think it'll be a great race."
Doug wants ORbike readers to come on down to watch the race. "Bring friends!" he says. "The louder and more excited the crowd is, the better the racing becomes. As riders, we really thrive off the energy of the crowd. And even if you've never seen a bike race before, come check it out. A criterium is a great opportunity to learn about race tactics, simply because you can see so much of the course. It's so much more complex than a first time spectator might suspect, but that only makes it more interesting to watch. Plus, there's beer and music. What better way could there be to spend a Friday night?"
Best of luck, Doug, we'll be cheering you on!
(photo by Mike Beavers)
Comments (2) | Posted by orbike at 9:25 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
July 24, 2007
Video Footage of Madisons
A lot of you got really excited about the Madison races at Alpenrose this past week, especially once we broke it down for you and helped you understand what it is all about. But still, I know a lot of you didn't get a chance to make it out to the Six-Day. Don't worry, here's a chance to see a lesser version of the excitement. Check out this footage of some of the race, including helmet cam footage shot while racing on the track. There are subtitles along the way to help explain the action.
[ watch the video ]
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 10:52 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
July 19, 2007
Quick Racing News
From OBRA:
Even though it is the Six-Day we will have points races for other categories.
Entry fee for the pts races is only $5.00. We start at 6:00 so come early.
WOMEN Points Race
B progressive points
A Win & Out
Cat 4/5 Point Race
B scratch
A points
Cat 1/2/3 points
B B Madison
A A Madison
For more information, contact cmurray@obra.org or see the OBRA website.
Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 10:19 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
July 12, 2007
Alpenrose Six-Day : Meet the Madison
It's time for the annual Alpenrose Six-Day, July 16-21. That means, six full days of racing at the Alpenrose velodrome featuring Madison races.
The Madison is an event in track racing named after Madison Square Garden in New York. Teams compete, but only one rider needs to be racing at any stage. Periodically, the teams change riders by "tagging" their teammates, usually performing slingshot action with linked hands to transfer as much of their momentum as possible to the racing rider, though a teammate may also be propelled into the race by a push of the rider's racing shorts. The non-racing teammate then moves to the top of the circular banked track to recover before the next stint.
SCHEDULE:
MONDAY
Madison Pursuit, Madison Race
TUESDAY through SATURDAY
Two Individual Races and a Madison Race
THURSDAY and SATURDAY
Individual Races and a Madison for Six-Day riders
Racing for other categories, single day riders
Madison racing hints | History of Six-Day Racing
Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 9:29 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
July 3, 2007
Bike Racing on the Radio
The KBOO Bike Show wants to hear from you!
KBOO BIKE SHOW
First Wednesday of the month
9-10 am
* 90.7 fm (live) * KBOO.fm (live) * Podcast
This month on the program, interviews with bike racers to discuss the sportier side of bike culture. What's the attraction to riding to fast? Why is there sometimes a disconnect between racing and the bike commuter world? What's the local racing scene like and where is it headed? Tune in on July 4th and find out from racing experts Doug Ollerenshaw and Wendy Williams.
Call with your comments during the program at 503/231.8187.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 9:49 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
June 28, 2007
Health Net Portland Twilight Crit
Construction in downtown Portand has required a lot of projects and events to make adjustments for the 2007 season and for the Health Net Portland Twilight Criterium things were looking a little worrisome for a while there. But the Crit is back in action! The organizers have worked closely with the City of Portland and Parks and Rec to find a new home for the event. This year the Crit will be in the North Blocks.
The new location retains all the exciting elements of the old South Park Blocks location: a 360 degree viewing oasis, the downtown vibe, tight turns, fast course and a beer garden in the middle of it all. Racers may miss the hills on course, but one things is for sure: this course is going to be lightning fast!
Also new this year, women can race in both races. The cat 3 is open to cat 2 women and the Pro 1,2 is also open to women.
Mark August 24th on your calendar and be prepared to spend a Friday evening in downtown Portland watching some absolutely hot racing action!
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 9:50 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
June 1, 2007
Bike Community Supports Injured Racer
Ryan McKnab, 31, a bike mechanic at Corvallis Cyclery, suffered severe head injuries when he crashed during the Silverton Road Race. The cause of the accident was unclear, but around 20 cyclists might have been involved in the resulting crash after they collided with each other.
Ryan was transported by ambulance to Silverton, and then by helicopter to Oregon Health & Science University in Portland, where he remains in the intensive care unit. He has been listed in stable condition with head injuries, abrasions and a cracked molar. But he's not going through this alone.
Ryan's wife, Jessi Brunson, said the bike community has rallied around McKnab’s family.
“It’s beyond words,” she said. “It’s been incredible.”
The race organizers, GSC United, donated $2,000 in collected race registration fees to put toward McKnab’s hospital bills.
There are ways you can help as well:
• Donate to the OHSU food card so Ryan McKnab’s wife, Jessi Brunson, and her family can get food at the hospital: Call 503-494-3768. Talk to George and give to account No. 94047 under Jessi Brunson’s name.
• Provide dinner for Jessi and Ryan in Corvallis when they get home. Contact Liz Martin in Corvallis: martieli [at] science.oregonstate.edu
• Donate online to help cover hotel, hospital and other expenses.
• Send cards to OHSU Hospital, adult ICU, attention: Ryan McKnab, patient, 3181 S.W. Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR 97239.
You can stay abreast of Ryan's progress through his blog.
This information was adapted from an article published by the Corvallis Gazette-Times.
[ full article ]
Comments (3) | Posted by orbike at 9:06 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
February 17, 2007
Bicycling Mag Says Landis is Finished
From the Bicycling Magazine Newsletter: "In a recent interview Floyd Landis has admitted that he has virtually no chance of returning to racing in 2007. Find out why Floyd says he's finished." Read the article
A note from Landis' doctor: "Floyd has now passed the 3 month mark following his Birmingham hip resurfacing. He has regained full strength, power and range of motion and is completely pain free. His one leg power tests now show that the new hip is actually stronger than the other side. With normal length restored to his femur and the elimination of his chronic pain, Floyd is riding uninhibited for the first time in nearly 4 years."
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 9:47 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
February 16, 2007
Cherry Tips for Beginners
For those of you racing Cat5s for the first time, or entering the True Beginner field for the Cherry Pie Road Race on Feb 17, you might way to review this great info posted by Jim Fischer. He says, "This is by no means a comprehensive guide to doing well in your first race, but it should help reduce first day jitters. I believe OBRA also has something like this on the site...Check it out and feel free to contact me off-list with questions."
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 7:30 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
February 14, 2007
Cherry Pie Updates
There are 250 people registered so far for the Cherry Pie Road Race this Sunday. The weather is looking pretty good, too. Online registration is open for another few days, but the Cat4 and Cat5 fields have registration limits and they're getting really full. Here are some additional notes from organizer Jim Fischer:
If you're planning to race 5s (or 4/5 40+), better get on it.!
Also, Staging for the races will take place ACROSS THE STREET from Adair Park.
You will still be registering at the north end of the park, but we will do the neutral rollout from the parking lot at Valley Catering. They will be letting us use their parking lot for staging.
Portable toilets (6 of 'em) will be at the north end of the Park. The County has told me the permanent facilities will not be open/operational. Please do NOT water the bushes. We lost the last Cherry Pie venue due in large part to public urination.
Please, DO NOT PARK at VALLEY CATERING. We will put up barricades to keep this area clear, but I just wanted you to know why such a choice parking area has been blocked off.
If you need overflow parking, Santiam Christian school is fine with us using their lot. It's just west of the Adair Park on NE Arnold.
I will post all this to the website with maps/aerial pics, so don't fret...yet.
The pre-race announcements will be mailed out by Ted Turner, our chief referee, later this week.
Also, please thank our volunteers and officials. The Cherry Pie has more fields on the road at any one time than most other events all season. We've been pulling officials out of "retirement" for this one. We've pulled some 50-60 volunteers together to cover all the work that must happen to make things run smoothly.
If you have questions or concerns, now's the time to ask.
Thanks, and we'll see you Sunday!
Regards,
Jim Fischer
Heather Paris
Flying Puppy Racing
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 12:41 PM | Permalink | TrackBack
February 13, 2007
Race Officials Needed
Cherry Pie Road Race chief referee Ted Turner says they still need a few race officials for the race on Sunday. "Please drop me a note by mid-week. We'll work the morning and afternoon events, so plan on being available all day. However, there may be a slot or two available for an afternoon-only assignment if you can't make it in the morning."
To get involved, contact Ted: ted.turner [at] weyerhaeuser.com.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 8:06 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
February 5, 2007
A Vanilla for Candi
Okay, I can mention this now because the secret's out: last night at the OBRA awards dinner, Candi Murray, a former OBRA volunteer, was presented with a certificate for a custom bike by Vanilla Bicycles at the OBRA. OBRA racers had been collecting funds and putting together a bike to honor Candi for her years of dedication to OBRA. (I wrote about her departure from OBRA and all of her accomplishments here).
Yann Blindert was the one who came up with the idea for the gift. " [Candi's] commitment to OBRA has resulted in Oregon being one of the best places to race and ride bicycles. She devoted close to the same amount of time to OBRA as we do to our careers. While I have only benefited from Candi's contributions for three or so years, I think we owe her a gift to show our gratitude. And what nicer gift could there be than a Candi Vanilla for Candi."
Candi was overwhelmed by the gift, which was miraculously kept secret while Yann and others worked to collect donations over the last few months. Here's what Candi had to say:
"Last night at the OBRA banquet I was overwhelmed with surprises and awards. You cannot imagine by delight at being presented with a certificate for my very own custom Vanilla that was put together by a group of OBRA riders and bike shops. I cannot express how honored I am. Thank you all so very much. "
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 12:16 PM | Permalink | TrackBack
January 31, 2007
Memorial Alleycat: Ali Cat
Ali Al-Salman was a mellow, calm local cyclist who recently passed away. In his honor, a group of cyclists is organizing an alleycat race. The cleverly-titled Ali Cat starts at 6p on Friday at the Lucky Lab NW.
FROM THE ORGANIZERS:
In honor of Ali, our calm and mellow-paced friend who recently died, join us for an all-out, high-paced citywide alleycat race.
The Ali Cat
The New Lucky Lab
1945 NW Quimby
Friday, February 2nd
Registration at 6PM
$1 entry fee (no cash prize...but there are prizes)
Never raced in an alleycat? This is a great one to start with. It'll be fun.
Be sure to bring a map, something to write with, and your fastest legs.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 9:49 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
January 30, 2007
Locals Rock the Cyclocross Worlds
Erik Tonkin of Portland is one of a group of Oregonians competing or working at the UCI (International Cycling Union) Cyclocross World Championships. He and fellow Portlander/his wife Rhonda Mazza raced on Sunday. Erik filed some dispatches for the Oregonian and Jonathan Maus did a great write up on BikePortland.org.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 8:46 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
January 21, 2007
Non-Messengers Take the Alleycat
At yesterday's Stairway to Hell alleycat, a team of three non-messengers took the race by storm. They didn't come in first, but they did very well. Though open to everyone, Alleycat races are organized by messengers and typically raced by messengers. It's assumed that the messengers will place well - after all they navigate the streets at high speeds all day on their bikes. In an alleycat, there is no set route, just a series of check points and obstacles that must be conquered. In the case of this ride, the main obstacle was a 800 vertical feet staircase.
Three Shift bikers, Ken Southerland, Sang Park and Carl Larson, took fifth, sixth and seventh place. They're not the ultra hip messenger types, they're just commuters. In fact, they want to race again and outfit their bikes with bike buckets and panniers.
See photos here on Tom Rolf's blog.
Comments (2) | Posted by orbike at 5:53 PM | Permalink | TrackBack
December 8, 2006
Don't Spend All Weekend Watching This
The Broadband Racer is a video site with race highlights, news, analysis and original content to give the viewers a look inside pro cycling worldwide. There are tons of up-to-date interviews as well as archives to sift through. Definitely more than you need to watch, and definitely enough to consumer your whole weekend - so don't forget to get out on your bike at some point and enjoy this rain-less wearther (for however long it lasts).
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 7:20 PM | Permalink | TrackBack
December 1, 2006
New Changes for the Cherry Pie
The Cherry Pie Road Race is an annual tradition from the good folks at OBRA and Flying Puppy Racing. Along with the Worst Day of the Year Ride, it's one of those very early in the season bike events: Feb 18th. This year's ride will features a few new changes, based on rider feedback.
Here's what organizer's Jim and Heather have to report:
Hey everyone,
Here are a list of the changes to date:
1.) Include Masters 4 50+ with the Masters 5 50+. I think this will happen.
2.) Include a fixie cat. This one is tougher, but I'm working on it. We already have 6 races in the AM and 6 in the PM. Things are getting pretty full. Stay tuned.
3.) Have the Women 1/2/3 race the two laps (52 miles). I would also have the Women 40+ race the same length. How do the ladies feel about this?
If there are other requests, please get them to Heather and me so we can figure out if they are doable.
Regards,
Jim and Heather
Flying Puppy Racing
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 9:41 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
November 28, 2006
Kruger's Crossing Race Updates
Kris Schamp of Portland Racing is getting pretty excited for this Sunday's Kruger's Crossing cyclocross race on Sauvie Island. A recon mission took place to check out the course. "The downpours made for a lot of puddles and some slick sections, but all by all the course and the corn maze have held up amazingly well. Pretty much everything was rideable. Actually, about half of the course will lead over fast, hard-packed farm roads, which will nicely balance the dirt and grass sections... you gonna love it!" You should check out the very cool 360 degrees panoramic view of the area Kris posted on their site.
Kris also recently sent out these updates:
1) ...I posted some photos and the tentative course map on our web site.
2) To make it easier on our registration volunteers, we encourage you to pre-register for the race (see our web site for details) and save $5 off the regular race fee. The official deadline for pre-registrations is 11/27.3) Parking: Kruger's Farm can accommodate about 250-300 cars, which hopefully will be plenty (assuming that not everyone who races will be there all day). However, it would greatly help if you consider car-pooling with friends.
4) DON'T FORGET TO BRING YOUR BIB NUMBERS!!! We will use the Cross Crusade bib numbers, so please makes sure to bring them with you.
That's it. If you have any questions, check our web site or just shoot me an e-mail.
We're looking forward to seeing you all on Sunday at the farm!
~Kris
kris@portlandracing.com
Comments (1) | Posted by orbike at 7:37 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
November 6, 2006
Lance Says Marathons are HARD!
Lance Armstrong finished the New York City Marathon yesterday at 2:59:36. His goal was 2:55:00. "Given the level of my condition, this was the hardest thing I've ever done," he said. "Considering all my Tours, even the worst days, nothing was as difficult or left me with such a sense of fatigue and so much soreness as the marathon today."
He said the distance was harder than he thought it would be and though he nerver truly hit the wall, he doesn't want to ever run a marathon again. [ read the Runner's World article ]
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 9:47 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
October 24, 2006
Friends of PIR
This news just in from Jim Anderson, the organizer for the Monday Nights at PIR race series that happens all summer long:
"Earlier this year a group called, Friends of PIR was started (see below).
They would like to have users of the track join and support their organization - its free and takes about 30 seconds. I urge you to show your support of this great venue and new organization."
[ sign up ]
About Friends of PIR
History and Introduction
Portland International Raceway (PIR) and its neighbors, the Expo Center,
Delta Park, and Heron Lakes golf course, are the legacy of the city of
Vanport. Because they were born from Vanport¹s tragic demise, each of these
facilities bears a responsibility to enrich the life of our community. For
the past half-century, PIR has incrementally addressed that responsibility
by both entertaining and accommodating families from an expanding hinterland
in Oregon and Washington, and by investing in the welfare of area
neighborhoods.
However, the scope and value of its services, accommodation and community
investments have varied over time due to vacillations in budgets, management
priorities, and income. As a consequence, PIR has periodically found itself
reacting to challenges and opportunities rather than anticipating, shaping,
and strategically securing the possibilities they provide.
The Friends of Portland International Raceway, an Oregon 501(c)3
corporation, assists the facility and the City of Portland to meet PIR's
responsibility to enrich its region and North Portland¹s neighborhoods. Led
by a board with representatives of those who use or visit the track, and who
live and work in the adjacent community, the Friends will solicit and apply
the resources and counsel of those who have a vested interest in the track
and its relationship to those it affects and serves.
Read the website for more info.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 1:40 PM | Permalink | TrackBack
October 12, 2006
Candi Murray, Tireless Volunteer, Retires from OBRA
Candi Murray, a 25-year OBRA volunteer, is now retiring. Along with her husband Mike, Candi has been a tireless contributor to the local bike racing scene. For 10 years she was the Oregon representative for USA Cycling until OBRA broke from that organization. At that time, Candi became exclusively and aggressively involved in the success of OBRA. Under her guidance, Oregon grew from just 700 racers to over 3,000 this year.
Candi says her involvement with racing was a natural evolution. "It was something that my husband did and I wanted to help and be involved. Mike, has been the director of the Alpenrose Velodrome for over 20 years and it just grew from that."
Though Candi makes it sound simple, Candi volunteers 50-60 hours a week during peak season and "only" 20-30 hours a week in the off season.
It's the riders, she says, that keep her going. "I absolutely love them. It is a real community and we all look out for each other. The other nice thing is that there are no age lines. One day I will be with people my age and the next minute I am with juniors and young adults. I always said that it would keep me young."
But don't worry, now that Candi is retiring, her youthful spirit won't accelerate into old age and she wants to be very clear that she is definitely not going to disappear. "No, I am not" she says. "I just want to get out from under the burden of the administrative details. I will still be going to races. I will still be officiating. They are not going to get rid of me so easy!"
And the OBRA volunteers are not replacing Candi easily, either. Candi's one-person position be being divided amongst three people, with Sal Collura from Eugene taking over a majority of the duties. Terri Camp will handle membership and Michael O'Hair will oversee equipment. Yes, Candi did all of that. And more.
Candi is rightfully very proud of the growth of the Oregon racing scene. It is something close to her heart. "I look at it like a parent. When Mike and I took over there were just under 700 racers in the state. We will top over 3000 this year. Velonews just did a survey and we were ranked first in the "Racers per Population Base" category and second in both "Total Number of Racers" and "Total Number of Events". I feel that we are personally responsible for most of that growth. We made it inexpensive to join and tried to make the community very inclusive and accepting of all riders."
With all this newly-found time on her hands, Candi is (surprise) going to spend her free time riding her bike. When asked about her position as a racer or a rider, Candi enthusiastically proclaims, "[I'm a] racer!!! I have one speed. Whether it is uphill, downhill, on the track or road. I used to say that I have never passed any rider in any event. While that is no longer true it is still pretty close! We live out in East County. I like to ride out by Rosalyn Lake and up to Lolo Pass. I like to ride the Springwater Trail on my fixed gear. I like to ride out to PIR via Marine Drive."
So if you see Candi out there on the road, or at a fall Cyclocross race, congratulate her, thank her and wish her well in her new adventures. We here at ORbike certainly do. Thank you, Candi, for all you have done for Oregon cycling.
Comments (4) | Posted by orbike at 10:39 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
October 10, 2006
Barlow Cyclocross
I didn't make it out to the cyclocross race at Sam Barlow High in Gresham this past Sunday, but ORbike reader Sherry Schwenderlauf did. This is a photo she took of the extreme mud that was out there. Here's what she had to say:
I was at Barlow yesterday! What a blast! I'm going to try to be at as many races as possible...especially since I now have friends who are racing...all the more exciting! In fact, I haven't been able to get my mind of cyclocross all day...I keep looking at my pictures :)
Yay mud!
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 7:22 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
October 9, 2006
Cyclocross Rider Profile: Janis McDonald
Janis McDonald is a project manager for PDOT's Transportation Options program. But bikes are not just her job: Janis loves riding. She enjoys long distance rides and participating in organized rides, but this year Janis decided to challenge herself even more by trying cyclocross.
"Every year I say to myself 'this year I will race cross' - and then I chicken out." Janis says. "But his year I told a friend I was going to do it so then I had to. I commute everywhere by bike and feel pretty confident about my riding skills. But cross was a challenge to those skills. Sometimes you can get too comfortable and need to shake it up. I can't believe it took me this long to try it."
Janis got ready for the day by going to a clinic out at Alpenrose. At the clinic she learned how to jump off her bike - because cross racers are constantly hopping off the bike to go over hurdles, up stairs, etc - which was one of her biggest fears. "Rhonda and her crew were patient and broke all the skills down for the beginners to understand. I would definitely recommend the clinics for anyone just starting." Janis says.
Janis had never raced before, but, she says, "Going around the velodrome, feeling that speed, may change all that."
Janis arrived at Alpenrose on Saturday and walked around to scope out the course. She felt overwhelmed by the stairs and the hills. But once she got riding the course was bumpy, challenging and rewarding. She raced hard after the first lap. Not against the other women so much - but against herself, to push herself harder. "I loved it. I felt strong afterward."
Part of the appeal of cyclocross is the scene that unfolds off the course. Janis describes it as "electric." There were 120 women racing that day and Janis loved being a part of the action. As for the spectators, Janis says, "Their energy was just as high - and contagious. They gave me the extra push I needed when I was running up a hill. Or when they yell out that you did a great job over the barricade it makes you jump on your bike and ride harder...with a smile on your face."
So will Janis be out there again? The answer: "YES! It is just plain fun. Makes you feel like a kid just playing around."
The next cyclocross race is October 15th at Hillsboro Stadium.
Comments (2) | Posted by orbike at 8:21 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
October 7, 2006
Battle at Barlow
It's the off week for the Cross Crusade cyclocross series, so in the meantime maybe you want to race the Battle at Barlow, a cross race being held in Gresham. The race is this Sunday. There is a full day of racing with Beginner Men and Masters 50+ (45 min); Cat C, Masters C 35+ (45 min); Masters B 35+, Junior Men (45 min); Cat B, Single Speed (45 min); Women A,B, Masters 35+ Women, Beginner Women, Junior Women (45 min); and Men A, Masters A 35+ (60 min). For more info, see our calendar.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 12:50 PM | Permalink | TrackBack
September 7, 2006
Health Net Twilight Crit Photos
I can't believe I'm just finally getting around to sharing this. Sorry it took me so long.
Photos of the 2006 Health Net Portland Twilight Crit are now up on the Twilight Crit website's photo gallery. Relive the night - an action-packed downtown bike race. You'll also find some great shots by Jonathan Maus of BikePortland.org here.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 1:43 PM | Permalink | TrackBack
August 15, 2006
Hit Your Peak Form This Season
Bart Summers says "You still have time to hit your peak form this season". Below is an article he wrote for the ORbike community, filled with good tips.
Roadies: You still have time to hit your peak form this season
If you’re reading this around August or September time and you’re up here in the Northern Hemisphere, it’s likely that you fall into one of two camps. Either you’ve had enough of bike racing for the year and you’re about to pack it in until you begin doing long winter miles later in the year or…
You’re about to make a last ditch attempt to find some form and start placing or even win a race before the season closes out!
If this second camp is where you are right now then listen up because
if you want to win a road race this season or you desperately need some ranking points to retain or move up a category then you’ve still got more than enough time to do it!
Here is why:
By the time you reach this point in the season you’ve probably spent the best part of 7 or 8 months or 200-250 days training and racing. That’s a lot! But here’s the good news:
If you’ve managed to remain mentally fresh over that period of time, taken regular R & R weeks and looked after yourself, even taken a week or two off the bike completely, then you may well be in a position to exploit all that good training to the full! And make what the Italians call a “Salto di qualita” or quality jump in form.
What all that training has given you is the most important bike racing asset of all…
Time in the saddle.
Exactly what builds economy, a powerful aerobic system and a huge level of endurance.
Now that you have built that economy and endurance, you’re in precisely the shape you need to be in order to start the kind of training that will have you winning races again before the season closes out.
And by “that kind of training” I’m talking about intervals!
What it boils down to is this.
What you need to win bike races and what we all want more of is to increase our sustainable power on the bike.
And that comes from having a huge aerobic base optimized by high quality interval training.
Having built the base, now all you have to do is get the intervals right and you’ll be flying in no time at all!
So what kind of intervals should you do to make certain you increase your sustainable power on the bike? Well, try the following two interval sessions- you’ll feel the increase in power almost immediately.
I recommend you do these on the indoor trainer so you can concentrate fully on maintaining full effort throughout the intervals.
V02 Max Intervals.
Ride for 3 minutes at a pace higher than you can maintain in a 10mile TT with full recovery between intervals. Repeat twice more or until you can no longer finish the 3 minutes in the same gear. Ignore Heart rate during these intervals and concentrate instead on pedalling smoothly and sustaining your power output.
One minute Anaerobic Capacity Intervals.
Ride one minute absolutely flat out as hard as you can do it with one minute rest between intervals. Repeat as many times as you can without fading. Stop and warm down as soon as you can no longer maintain the same power or have to change down a gear.
That’s just two sessions that will make a massive difference to your power output on the bike. Make sure you allow at least 48 hours recovery between each interval session.
Good luck with the rest of your season and here’s to you winning a race over the next few weeks!
Bart Summers is an active amateur racer and coach and author of the website 50 Top Bike Racing Tips
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 9:36 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
August 13, 2006
Health Net Portland Twilight Crit - RESULTS
It took me a while to get up this info, sorry about that. Team Health Net just completely dominated the pro race. Bike lawyer Ray Thomas wants to see some locals do something about that next year. Young racer Taylor Kneuven, a college student and Portland native (he's in school in Colorado and races for a Seattle team, but we'll claim his as Portland), did really well - coming in 13th place in the Pro race. Taylor has been into bikes for a while and learned to race in Portland. He has turned into a really strong rider over the years. So Ray, I think there's hope for the locals.
Masters
1 Johnston,Kent Fred Meyer/Lakeside Bicycles
2 Bannink, Jeff Bike Gallery
3 Worthington, Roger Labor Power
4 Collura, Sal Hutch's-OIC
Pro 1,2
1 Peltonen, Garrett Healthnet
2 Gritters, Kyle Healthnet
3 Henderson, Greg Healthnet
4 Menzies, Karl Healthnet
Full results | BikePortland.org article
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 4:58 PM | Permalink | TrackBack
August 12, 2006
Sneak Peak at the Crit
More photos and info to come, but here are a few from last night's Twilight Crit downtown. There was a huge crowd packed into the south park blocks, everyone leaning over each other to get a glimpse of the action. There were about 30% more people than last year. Top racers from across the nation we're in town. People standing near the curb could feel a breeze as the riders flew by. It was awesome, to say the least.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 11:05 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
August 11, 2006
Health Net Portland Twilight Crit - TONIGHT!
Come on down to the South Park Blocks tonight to watch the best racing at the Twilight Crit. There's nothing else like this in the area. Professional racers from across the nation - and lots of local favorites - will be competing for cash prizes. The race takes place in front of the Portland Art Museum and the course includes a section of racing on Broadway! (that's where they're racing in this photo) Check out pictures from last year's event here.
The event is totally free. There will be food on site, a beer/wine garden, live music and more. Come early to catch the Last Regiment of Syncopated Drummers.
The event will be packed with up to 10,000 spectators so come by bike and take advantage of the free bike parking for the easiest access to the race. Car parking is limited to the side streets, and they're going to fill up fast.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 12:03 PM | Permalink | TrackBack
August 8, 2006
Free Beer - Volunteer for the Crit on Friday
Come watch the area's fastest cyclists compete for the region's biggest purse in the 2006 Health Net Portland Twilight Criterium on Friday, Aug 11. The course surrounds the South Park Blocks of downtown Portland, creating an island oasis of 360-degree viewing, music, food and beverage. There are several places where you can get close enough to feel the wind from the peloton. Each lap is one-half mile long which takes the racers just over one minute to complete. The course is highly technical so fields are limited to eighty riders.
The event is free to attend and great for families. Come downtown Friday evening to experience the excitement yourself.
Get the best seating for the Crit when you volunteer from 5:30-9:00 pm. Get 2 free beer tickets good for when your volunteer shift is over, and a free t-shirt. To sign up, go to this page.
Volunteers will help serve food, pack up supplies, and work a variety of positions.
Comments (2) | Posted by orbike at 10:46 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
July 18, 2006
Mid-Summer Crit
The Mid-Summer Criterium Series starts this week on Wednesday and runs through August 2nd. Laps are 1.4 miles. The road surface varies along a median divided course and tree-lined roadway with two fast 180 degree turns. The course is technical and configured like european criteriums with false ascents, descents and fast corners. Road width varies from wide (two lanes) to narrow (one lane+). The crit is at Wagon Way and Century Blvd., which is off of highway 26 west at the Cornelius Pass rd exit.
EVENTS:
Women Cat 4 and Masters 40+ 25 minutes + 2 Laps 6:15PM
Senior Women 25 minutes + 2 Laps 6:15PM
Masters 1, 2, 3 30 minutes + 2 Laps 6:50PM
Category 4 & 5 30 minutes + 2 Laps 7:30PM
Category 1, 2, 3 45 minutes + 2 Laps 8:10PM
Registration Opens at 5:45pm near Start/Finish Line
$15.00 Entry Fee for each race. If doing two events, second race fee is $5.00
Cash Prizes to 5th place in each race
Primes every race
. OBRA membership is required
. OBRA one-day License ($5)
. Standard OBRA bicycle racing rules apply
. Helmets required
. Designated Pit Area. No wheel support. Free lap for mechanical until 2 laps to go
Directions to Course: From Portland take 26 west to the Cornelius Pass Rd. exit (North). At stoplight, left onto Wagon Way. 2 blocks to course. Race Parking on Wagon Way (see course marshal) and Liberty High School parking lot.
For more info, contact CMG Events: 503.807.2471, om.cmg1@verizon.net
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 12:09 PM | Permalink | TrackBack
July 13, 2006
Oregon Bike Events are Growing
There seems to be no shortage of great Bike events happening in Oregon this summer and most have seen their numbers grow. The Barlow Trail Century, in it's third year, experienced huge growth on one of the hottest days to hit summer. The Night Ride last Saturday was off the hook. Tons of riders are already signing up for the brand new Portland Century and Mt. Bike Oregon is poised to sell out.
For our loyal readers in Eugene, don't miss out on , a weekend of bike-themed films at the DIVA center.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 10:00 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
July 5, 2006
Tour de France Online Tracker
A friend just tipped me off to this cool online Tour de France insider's tool. The Tour de France is on it's third stage and Location Based Media created a live, interactive tracker application. The recent track is plotted on a Google map and live data (such as eart beat, speed, stress points, distance, power and current position) will be displayed next to each driver.
Take a look here.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 11:02 AM | Permalink | TrackBack
June 22, 2006
Any Elkhorn Classic Crit Racers Out There?
The Baker City paper is looking for crit riding experiences to feature in an upcoming article about the Elkhorn Classic. For more information, see their website.
Comments (0) | Posted by orbike at 12:09 PM | Permalink | TrackBack
June 13, 2006
Monday Nights at PIR Get Hot!
Jim Anderson and I have been talking a lot lately. Jim's the organizer of the Monday night race series at PIR. From the get-go this season, the Monday nights have been a big hit. Jim says, "This month is bike crazy, its really good to be in Portland!" I agree and I think his Monday nights are definitely part of our big summer cycling boom. On just about any given Monday night, (schedule) you can head out to PIR and learn a little a