Women's Winter Escape

Presented by Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center

Gorham, NH

Saturday, January 19, 2008 to Sunday, January 20, 2008

Online Registration Closes
Wednesday, January 16, 2008 at 11:00 PM ET

Women Only

A snowcountry getaway and camaraderie for women only. This weekend includes, continental breakfast and lunch both Saturday and Sunday as well as dinner Saturday night. Nordic ski clinics for all abilities, snowshoeing, dog sled rides, yoga, equipment demos, wine tasting and more!

Register here.

Ski To The Clouds

Presented by Maxiglide Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center

Great Glen Trails, Gorham, NH

Ski to the Clouds is a 10K race. The first 4K are held on the trail system at Great Glen Trails. The final 6K climb the Mt. Washington Auto Road to treeline.

Sunday, March 09, 2008

Online Registration Closes
Thursday, March 06, 2008 at 5:00 PM ET

Register here.

Stowe Derby 2008

Presented by Mt. Mansfield Ski & Snowboard Club & CONCEPT 2

Stowe, VT

Sunday, February 24, 2008

Online Registration Closes
Saturday, February 23, 2008 at 4:00 PM ET

Register here.

24th Annual VOmax/Bogburn XC Ski Race

Presented by Cambridge Sports Union
1050 Skyline Road
Pomfret, VT

Sunday, January 06, 2008

Online Registration Closes
Saturday, January 05, 2008 at 8:00 PM ET

Register here.

Horror at Harding Hill

The Horror at Harding Hill
Presented by
Sunapee Lions Club

Sunapee, NH
Sunday, July 06, 2008

Online Registration Closes
Tuesday, July 01, 2008 at 12:01 AM ET

Registration is now open here.

Dressing for Cold Weather Training

Dressing for Cold Weather Training
by David Peckinpaugh, M.S.

David Peckinpaugh is a USA Cycling certified coach, has a Master's Degree in Exercise Science with a concentration in Exercise Physiology, and is an American College of Sports Medicine certified Health/Fitness Instructor.

As a cyclist, training in cold weather is often necessary if you are eager to improve and be ready for the racing season in the spring. While this is not the preferred environment for training for most of us, it is possible to take some steps to make it more tolerable. Proper clothing is the key to cold weather riding and can make a long cold ride much more comfortable. With the development of many new fabrics in the cycling clothing industry, you now have many options to choose from. Gone are the days of PVC rain jackets (that often left you wetter than if you weren't wearing it) and cloth booties (that work like a sponge in wet weather) so count yourself lucky. With the added wind produced by cycling and the road spray from wet roads, cycling in cold weather presents a greater challenge than other modes of training. Hypothermia is a serious and real risk for cyclists especially with the duration of exposure to the elements.

This article will give you some guidelines for clothing for different body segments giving you some ideas based on how cold and wet the weather may be. Most of the recommendations found here will not be attached to specific temperatures as everyone adapts to the cold differently. Therefore, you need to use the amount and type of clothing that works for you so you can complete most of your rides comfortably.

Cold and wet feet can make even a short ride unbearable so this is a good place to start. Even in moderately cool weather, it is important to keep your toes toasty. Wool cycling socks are a good choice as the temperature starts to drop below what is normally comfortable. As it gets colder, adding a light and breathable and water resistant booty that covers your achilles tendon is a must. Lower temperatures will necessitate a more insulating booty that is both wind resistant and water proof. Neoprene is a common material used in this level of booty but be aware that your feet will likely sweat in these. On long rides (especially if the temperature drops more) your feet may still start to sweat and then get cold. Keep your feet even toastier in your booties by adding a full length wool sock if needed. Keep in mind that in order to keep your feet warm in cold weather, you need to have good blood circulation in your feet. This means that adding several layers of socks is not the answer as it will likely restrict blood flow by making your shoes fit too tightly. The best answer to this may be to purchase a second pair of shoes for winter cycling that is a little bigger than your regular shoes or invest in one of the insulated winter cycling "boots" on the market.

Your legs (and especially your knees) deserve extra attention. While many riders like to push the envelope and see how long into the cool weather season they can get away with wearing shorts, this is not recommended. As the temperature starts to drop into the low 70's, it?s time to start thinking about keeping your knees warm. Knee warmers are an obvious choice for this type of weather so you can slip them on during the ride. In cooler temperatures, you may want to opt for a full tight or leg warmer to provide extra protection. As the temperature drops, you are best off with a full tight to provide good protection. In very cold and/or very wet weather, opt for tights that have a wind resistant and waterproof panel along the front of the legs up to the waist and on the upper back panel. These tights will keep you warm and dry in even pretty nasty conditions. For all but short commutes or extremely wet and cold rides, try to steer clear of full coverage pants that claim to be breathable. While these are usually good at keeping the rain out, once your body temperature rises, the perspiration often builds up even though they are "breathing." This can cause your legs and knees to get a chill if you are out for a long duration. It can also be quite effective to layer your leg coverings, which allows you to remove one of the layers if you get too warm. A pair of knee warmers under your tights might just add that little bit of extra insulation.

Protecting your torso from the elements is essential if you are going to stay warm and comfortable on a long ride. As the temperature drops into the 70's or lower, a wicking undershirt should go under your jersey. If you are in the market for more winter clothing, buy several of these as they will be the "base" layer for the entire winter. Some of these also come with a windproof laminate on the chest that can take the sting out of a cold wind without adding another layer of bulk. As it gets colder, a long sleeve jersey over your short sleeve and base layer is a must. Adding a long sleeve base layer or thicker wicking turtleneck under the long sleeve jersey is a good idea if it is quite cold. A vest with a high neck, wind resistant and water resistant front, and mesh back is a vital piece to include in your cold weather wardrobe. It is the one item that you should have with you on all but the hottest rides in case the temperature unexpectedly drops or you get caught in a sudden shower.

Cold weather "jackets" that have wind/water resistant panels on the chest and arms and a more breathable fabric like fleece on the back of the arms and on your back can be great when the temperature really drops. Keep in mind, however, that these jackets can cause you to overheat if the temperature rises and are difficult to stow away in your jersey pocket so reserve them for very coldest of rides. Full windbreakers should go with you stuffed into your pocket on all cool weather rides even if you are already wearing a vest. While they can also cause you to sweat and develop a chill if you wear it the entire ride, they will keep you warm and somewhat dry in a sudden downpour. Starting the ride wearing a full jacket is not often recommended, as you may want to remove it as you warm up. If you build up a light sweat, this can cause you to get a "chill." A wind resistant neck gaiter can help keep the cold wind from hitting your neck and creating a draft to your chest.

Your hands are a main point of contact on the bike and must be kept warm and dry. Again, there are many options on the market for different conditions. A light knit glove might be your first choice in cool weather. As the temperature drops, a wind and water resistant glove with a leather palm is a good choice and you can slip a thin glove liner under these if needed. There are also a lot of options for gloves for very cold weather. Look for a pair that is wind resistant and waterproof. You may want to go with a pair of "lobster" style gloves that keep at least two of your fingers together for extra warmth. You do lose a certain amount of dexterity with these and they may slightly compromise your ability to shift and brake so you may want to reserve these for the coldest days. Just as with your feet, good circulation to your hands is crucial for maintaining warmth so be sure that your gloves are not too tight for this to occur.

As you probably heard many times as a child, a large amount of body heat is lost through your head so it is vital to keep your head covered in cold weather. Look for options that fit easily and comfortably under your cycling helmet so you aren't tempted to ride without it. One common choice here is the cotton cycling cap. This can provide some protection but, since it is cotton, it does not dry very quickly from rain or sweat which won't keep you very warm in cold temperatures. A better choice may be one of the many wicking head covers on the market. These fit well under your helmet and will keep your head relatively dry from sweat. Most of these can also be extended over your ears if needed. A more insulating cap that has the quick drying "wicking" capabilities, fits under your helmet, and covers your ears is the next choice as the mercury drops. A windproof helmet cover can also be beneficial. In extreme temperatures, a balaclava will help keep your face protected from the elements. Finally, a light layer of petroleum jelly can also help protect your cheeks from windburn.

Besides just choosing the right clothing, there are some other things to keep in mind. First of all, check the weather forecast frequently to know what to expect. It is better to plan for the worst and ride with pockets full of extra clothing than turn home early or get too cold. Look for items that you can easily remove or add if the temperature changes. Remember that just because it may be fairly nice at your house, the temperature and weather can change drastically if you head into the mountains or descend into valleys. The key concept for cold weather riding is layering. By layering your clothing, you have the ability to adjust your clothing on the road as the weather changes. Another tip is to use fenders. If it is raining, there are no garments that will keep you completely dry for a long ride. Plan for this by wearing enough clothes that you may be a bit warm if dry but leaves you comfortable when you get wet. A bike with fenders can also help keep you considerably warmer if the road is wet. If possible, keep a bike ready with fenders to make it easier to get out in wet weather. If this is not an option, there are now some partial fenders available that can fit on most standard road bikes and attach without tools.

Finally, many riders wonder why are coaches always so worried about keeping your knees and Achilles tendons covered? They are trying to prevent you from developing a painful and possible chronic condition known as tendonitis. By definition, tendonitis means that your tendons are inflamed. The tendons around your knees and at your Achilles tendon are especially vulnerable when cycling in cool weather. In cold weather, there is not much blood in these areas to keep them warm and injury free. Tendonitis can be quite serious if not taken care of and could possibly lead to a career ending injury. Some riders are more prone to this than others but you don't want to find out that you are more susceptible after you develop an injury so it is best to be conservative and prevent the problem from developing in the first place. Many riders that develop tendonitis that can often trace the condition back to one particular day of cool weather riding without proper protection. Remember that if it is cold enough for arm warmers, it is cold enough for knee warmers.

While cold weather riding is rarely our first choice for training, it is a reality for many of us. Training on the bike and outdoors during the winter is a must for the serious cyclist preparing for the spring. It is necessary, therefore, to take the extra steps to prepare for the conditions by dressing in the most effective way. This will go a long way in keeping you out on the road and in top shape. Most of these rules found in this article will apply for different outdoor sports so make adjustments as necessary. An activity like running or cross country skiing will have less wind resistance and you will likely generate more body heat than when road cycling so you can dress less warmly than if you were riding in similar conditions. Above all, get outside and enjoy the winter!

Cycling Moments to Remember

Tour of the Battenkill - Registration Now Open

TOUR OF THE BATTENKILL; formerly known as Battenkill-Roubaix,
Presented by Farm Team Cycling, in SALEM, NY

Saturday, April 19, 2008

Online Registration Closes
Tuesday, April 15, 2008 at 9:00 PM ET

Register here.

Men Cat. 4 and Men Cat 5 35+ fields closed a few hours after registration went live on BikeReg.com. And its only December 21st!

This race is highly recommended - it is extremely well run - safe - a great season opener - with ~ 1,400 racers participating. The Farm Team juniors (ages 10-14) have their own short race before the main event. Not to be missed. Will.

Computrainer Time Trial at Incline Training

Any interest in a PBC time trial at Incline Training in Greenfield sometime in February? This is a great way to gauge your fitness in the late winter before riding begins outdoors in March. We could race each other, or have a team (with drafting) and race against the Incline Training team, with the losing team (or last PBC racer if we race each other) having to buy pint(s) of beer at the People's Pint afterward? Let me know if you have any interest. The cost would be $20 per person (or perhaps there could be reduced rate for the entire group). There are sixteen stations (for a PBC time trial) - if we race another team, our team can have a maximum of eight riders. Drafting can be turned on or off. There will be great music to accompany the race. We can choose from a variety of courses, and lengths, all with hills of course. For those of you who have never used a Computrainer multirider setup, the screen projected on the wall displays a graphic of the course, with data about the grade, your speed, your place, whether you are drafting, your wattage, heartrate, cadence, your distance behind the rider in front of you and behind you, etc. There is a fan for each rider, to keep you cool. Water and Accelerade provided. Will
Link

PBC 2008 Membership Dues

You may now pay your PBC 2008 membership dues online at Bikereg.com.

The link is here.

Or you can drop off a check or cash at the shop.

All members will have to sign a waiver, available at the shop, or I can mail it or e-mail it to you. Let me know.

The Putney Bicycle Club is in the process of becoming a non-profit corporation in Vermont.

President: Will Kraham
Treasurer: Pam Matweecha
Secretary: Pedr Seymour

We may put a PBC clothing order online at Bikereg.com later.

Enjoy the snow.

Will.

Possible PBC/West Hill class at Incline Training

Matt Brewster sent the following e-mail invitation to Pip and Will;

Hi Phil, Will,

I hope you are both well, and dug out from the snow!

The reason I am contacting you is to discuss developing training classes specifically for the West Hill members.

We are offering a new gym-style membership program for our CompuTrainer classes down here at Incline Training. I believe you would have received my email announcement, but if not there is a link below.

The basic structure is membership in weekly training classes which are tailored to the fitness goals of differing groups. On top of that you can add unlimited training time at non-class sessions (e.g. weekend or weekday a.m. sessions). Everyone enrolled in any training session has access to a website where we will post suggested training calendars. This site will also be the interface for session registration.

What I would like to work on with you is developing a class specifically for West Hill. For instance, we could have a West Hill team class for 16 riders on a weekend afternoon. You all could train as a club - indoors and warm; I think Will can speak for the quality and fun at these sessions. To match the calendar offerings of our other classes, we could develop a training plan to support the race plan of the West Hill members. Those are some starter ideas, I would also like to hear yours.

At the very least, I would like to put out the programs you see in the newsletter to the West Hill club. Our underlying purpose for the restructure was to increase our value as a training resource for the local cycling community.

I would prefer to speak with one or both of you on the phone, unfortunately I have to run to Great Barrington today. Please let me know when you are available to talk.

Regards,

Matt

Link here.

Verge NECCS Final Standings

Masters 55+
Phillip Bannister - 2nd place
Kent Webster - 9th place

Neither Pip or Kent raced in RI on Dec. 9th, but placed in the top ten based on their results in previous races in the series!

Cycles Sirius - Vintage Postcard

Cyclocross: Mud, Sweat And Gears

NYT article about cyclocross.

Link here.

Bicycles That Carry Powerful Beats, and Even a Rider or Two

NYT article about Queens teenagers who convert bicycles into rolling D.J. booths.

Link: here.

W.E. Stedman GP of Cross - Round #6 of Verge NECCS

The 6th Annual W.E. Stedman GP of Cross: UCI Cat. 2 - Verge New England Championship Cyclo-Cross Series Round #6 & Rhode Island State Cyclo-Cross Championships will be held in Warwick, RI (a new location), on Saturday, December 8, 2007.

Online Registration Closes
Wednesday, December 05, 2007 at 5:00 PM ET

Register here.

Baystate Cyclocross #5 of the Verge NECCS

Sterling, MA
Saturday, November 24, 2007

Masters 55+
Phillip Bannister – 6th place

Wings for Life

There is a helmet for the cervical spine designed for motocross racers to prevent spinal cord injuries due to hyperextension and hyperflexion of the cervical spine. It is called the Leatt Brace. It looks like this:



It was developed in collaboration with KTM sports motorcycles (Austria), BMW (Germany), the Spinal Cord Injury Department, BG Trauma Centre Murnau (Germany) and Dr. Leatt (Orthopeadic Surgeon, South Africa) and the Leatt Brace was developed to protect the cervical spinal cord ("helmet for the cervical spine"). By allowing full mobility the Leatt Brace avoids hyperextension and hyperflexion of the cervical spine. There is no reason why it would not work for a cyclist as well. As a cyclist recovering from two fractures of the cervial spine (C3 and C4) and a spinal cord injury, such a device could prevent paralysis or death in the event of a future crash.

For more information about the foundation, go here.

U.S. Gran Prix of Cyclocross

Trenton, NJ
Saturday, November 17, 2007

2/3 Men
John Berlinger - 62nd place

West Hill Shop Cyclocross Race

More than a dozen Putney/West Hill racers competed in the 17th edition on Sunday, November 11th -- some raced more than once. The temperature was perfect, the course was dry and fast. Results for Putney/West Hill racers are as follows:


Cat. 1-3 Women
Kate Northcott - 7th place
Leah Toffolon - 10th place

Cat. 1-4 Master Men 35-44
John Buser - 17th place

Cat. 1-4 Master Men 45+
Phillip Bannister - 10th place
John Baker - 13th place
Kent Webster - 18th place

Cat. 1-4 Master Men 55+
Phillip Bannister - 2nd place
Kent Webster - 4th place

Cat. 3/4 Men
Brian Buettner - 28th place
John Berlinger - 31st place

Cat. 4 Men
Rob Westover - 1st place
Chris Northcott - 4th place
Robert Hendry - DNF

Cat 4. Women
Kirsten Jeppesen - 8th place

Cat. 4 Masters Men 45+
Jim Sweitzer - 1st place
Chris Osgood - 2nd place

Full results here.

Video of the race can be found here.

Vt. Mtn. Psycho Cross

Brownsville, VT
November 10, 2007

Men 3/4
John Baker - 9th place
John Buser - DNF

Cycle-Smart International / Verge NECCS Round #4

Masters 35+
John Buser - 41st place
Scott Wade - 51st place (17th place Masters 45+)
Robert Hendry - 87th place

3/4 Masters
John Baker - 30th place (11th place Masters 45+)
Andrew Bowers - 42nd place

Masters 55+
Phillip Bannister - 3rd place
Kent Webster - 7th place

Chainbiter 9.0 Round #3 of the Verge NECCS

Masters 55+
Kent Webster - 2nd place - Putney/West Hill
Phillip Bannister - 3rd place - Putney/West Hill

IBEX long sleeve, wool, full zip cycling jersey?

The West Hill Shop and the PBC are weighing the level of interest in ordering a quantity of IBEX long sleeve, full zipper, Merino Wool Cycling Jerseys (with 3 rear pockets), in the Putney/West Hill team colors, for sale to PBC members only. The actual cost for PBC members is to be determined, but will probably be approximately $120.00 each. This will be a classic, collectible, limited edition, one-of-a-kind jersey, reminiscent of the wool jerseys worn by the pros in the 60s. The availability of this jersey will be one of the many benefits of your PBC membership.

We are taking a poll of PBC members and potential PBC members:

1) Would you purchase this jersey if available?

2) If you are not a current "dues paid" PBC member, might this jersey entice you to pay your dues and/or become a new member of the club?

Visit IBEX site here.

Please comment.

Thank you. Will Kraham.

Toronto UCI-C2 Pro-Am Cyclocross Races

To be held on Saturday, November 10 & Sunday November 11, 2007 (Note: Same date as West Hill Cyclocross Race) at 256 Centennial Park Rd., Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

The technical guide and course maps can be found here.

Registration closes at 5PM, Thursday, November 8, 2007.

Register here.

Cheshire Cross (NEBRA)

CHESHIRE CROSS 07
Presented by Cheshire Cycle & Race Team EPIC VELO

Cheshire, CT

Saturday, November 17, 2007

Online Registration Closes
Thursday, November 15, 2007 at 11:30 PM ET

Register: here.

PsychoCross Race in Brownsville, Vermont

This is a new cyclocross event in Vermont. Presented by Penguin Racing. The race will be held in Brownsville, Vermont on Saturday, November 10, 2007, the day before the West Hill Shop Cyclocross Race.

Online Registration Closes on Thursday, November 08, 2007 at 11:59 PM ET

Register: here.

Race Flyer: here.

Danielson Adventure Sports Cross Cup

Dayville, CT
Saturday, October 27, 2007

1/2/3 Masters

Phillip Bannister - 4th place

Incline Training Winter Computrainer Programs Start Nov. 1st

Jay Gump has a Ph.D. in physiology/biophysics and an M.S. in exercise physiology. He is a certified strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS) and has been a USA Cycling elite level coach since 1997. In 2004, he was director of the Webcor Builders Professional Cycling Team that included top ranked domestic racer Chris Horner and T-Mobil San Francisco champion Charles Dionne. Jay has worked at the US Olympic Training Center and coached local and regional cycling teams.

Information about the Nov. & Dec. cycling training team (Thursday nights at 6 pm) can be found: here.

Information about the Bicycles Unlimited club training (Monday nights at 6 pm) can be found: here.

Information about the multi-sport training team (Tuesday nights at 6 pm) can be found: here.

Infomation about the open training sessions (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 4 p.m., and Sat. & Sun. mornings at 9 am & 11 am) can be found: here.

Visit Jay Gump's website: here.

The facility is located at 60 Wells St. in Greenfield, MA.
Phone: 413.774.9997
Email: info@incline-training.com

Questions may be directed to two PBC members who are clients of Jay's: Will Kraham (wekraham@sover.net) and Phillip Bannister (pip@sover.net).

Baystate Cyclocross - Round #5 of the Verge NECCS

BAYSTATE CYCLOCROSS Round 5 of THE VERGE NEW ENGLAND CYCLOCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES

Presented by Spin Arts, Gear Works Cyclery, Mid State Cycling Club

Sterling, MA

Saturday, November 24, 2007

Online Registration Closes
Thursday, November 22, 2007 at 6:00 PM ET

Register: here.

Catamount Cyclocross Weekend Oct. 20th - 21st

Putney/West Hill

Women – Sunday
Kirsten Jeppesen – 6th place

Women - Omnium
Kirsten Jeppesen – 8th place

Master – Sunday
John Buser – 9th place
John Baker – 15th place

Master - Omnium
John Buser – 12th place
John Baker – 21st place

Full results here: here.

17th Annual Cycle-Smart International - Round #4 of the Verge NECCS

17th Annual Cycle-Smart International / Verge New England Championship Cyclo-Cross Series Round 4, UCI Class 2

Presented by Cycle-Smart: Solutions For Cycling, will take place on Sunday, November 4, 2007, at Look Park, Northampton, MA.
This is Round 4 of the 2007 Verge New England Championship Cyclo-Cross Series.

Online Registration Closes
Thursday, November 01, 2007 at 8:00 PM ET

Register at: here.

Chainbiter 9.0, Round #3 of the Verge NECCS

Presented by
Benidorm Bikes, Eastern Bloc Cycling Club

At Winding Trails, Farmington, CT on Saturday, November 03, 2007

Online Registration Closes
Wednesday, October 31, 2007 at 6:00 PM ET

Register at: here.

17th Annual West Hill Shop Cyclocross Race

The Seventeenth Annual West Hill Shop Cyclocross Race

Sunday, November 11, 2007

Location: West Hill Shop, Putney, Vermont. At Exit 4 off Interstate 91. Look for the signs.

Course: A 1.5 mile loop starting below the shop on the pavement, up to Brickyard Lane and onto the grass, around the shop, through the woods and down the slippery hill, around the cornfield, back along the dirt road start and then up the famous run-up. The course changed a bit in recent years, with fewer woods and more grass, due to some land clearing next door but it's still a fun, old-school course. We've improved the two kickers where the course runs through our newly improved dirt jump track. Mountain bikes (without bar ends) are welcome, but it's a real cyclocross course with barriers, dismounts, and running.

Pre-register at: here.

Circuit Training Classes with Todd Miller

Circuit Training Classes with Todd Miller 10/30-12/27

Meets Tuesday and Thursdays for 16 classes total.

EIGHT-WEEK SESSION FOR $120. Circuit training exercise classes with Todd Miller meet Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm at Newman Hall in Putney.

The exercises are a mix of calisthenics, medicine ball, Swiss ball and plyometrics exercises, including 20 stations of exercises for the core, lower body, and upper body.

Sign up: here.

2007 Canton Cup Cyclo-Cross Race (NEBRA)

The Sixth Annual Canton Cup Cyclo-Cross Race, presented by North Atlantic Velo and IBC Racing, will take place in Canton, MA on Sunday, Oct. 28th. Online registration closes on Wednesday, October 31, 2007 at 6:00 PM ET

Register at: here.

Porky Gulch Stage Race

The Porky Gulch Classic Stage Race at Gorham, NH, an on & off-road stage race, will be held on Nov. 3 & 4. This race is presented by the Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center.

The stages take place on the Mt. Washington Auto Road, through
Storyland, and on the trails of Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center.

Online registration closes on Friday, November 02, 2007 at 12:01 AM ET

Register at: here.

Gran Prix of Gloucester - Day 2 - Putney/West Hill

Elite Women
• Kate Northcott – DNF

2/3 Men
• Christopher Bagg – 12th place

3/4 Masters 45+
• John Baker – 22nd place

Masters 55+
• Phillip Bannister – 2nd place

Full results with finish pics are posted for the Gran Prix of Gloucester, day 2, here.

Gran Prix of Gloucester Day 1 Results

Master 55+
• Phillip Bannister – 3rd place
• Kent Webster – 5th place

Elite Women
• Kate Northcutt – 17th place

2/3 Men
• Christopher Bagg – 30th place

Full results

Route 142 Rail Crossing Problems

Recently Neil Senior had a bad bike encounter with the railroad tracks on 142. He has been in contact with the Bicycle Safety guy for the State of Vermont, who has agreed to come down and look at the rail crossing. Neil is collecting information from people who have had problems with the tracks.

If you have any stories to relate, please send to Neil. Include the name of the person, approximate date it occurred, and any injuries that were sustained. You can email your info to Neil Senior.

PBC Email Manager Needed

The club needs someone to manage emails, to keep the email list of members current, send out announcements and reply to emails, and post pertinent announcements from email onto this website.

If you can do this, just email.

Seeking Photo of Jim Nash at CMSR

One of your very nice club members took a really great digital photo of my husband, (Jim Nash, Master’s 40+ field), near the top of the climb of Stage 1 at this year’s GMSR, and I never got back to him with my email address. If you could inquire and even have the photographer email the photo to me I would be very grateful. Thanks, Karen Nash

FINAL PBC TUESDAY NIGHT RIDE AND ANNUAL POTLUCK

Tuesday, September 18, Leaving from West Hill Shop @ 5:30 sharp. It will have to be a short ride. Bring lights!

The potluck will immediately follow the ride, about 7 pm. We will provide goodies on the grill. Please bring a side dish and something to drink. Everyone is welcome, whether you were riding, or not.

We will also have an informal PBC meeting to discuss some great new ideas for the club with our new coordinators. Hope to see you there!

Mount Agamenticus Time Trial

17th Annual West Hill Shop Cyclocross Race

The race is scheduled for Sunday, November 11. More details to come!

Cyclocross Practice

Every Wednesday starting September 5th @ 6PM at the West Hill Shop come practice with the West Hill Cyclocross team.

Pittsfield 666 Mountain Bike Race Aug. 2-3

The 2008 Pittsfield 666 Mountain Bike Race has been scheduled for August 2-3. Registration is open. Visit the http://www.bikereg.com/events/register.asp?eventid=5181 and register by the end of the month and pay 1/2 price - $30 for solo entry and $50 for relay entry. This offer is only good through the end of the month.

The Peak website (www.peak.com ) will be updated next week. Check regularly for upcoming races.

Feel free to contact Andy Weinberg if you have any questions and feel free to spread the word about registration being open.

Second-Century Ride next Saturday!

The third annual Second-Century Ride takes place next Saturday (August 25th) at 8:00 AM. This year's event is co-sponsored by Brattleboro Memorial Hospital and Meeting Waters YMCA, both of whom are in their second century of service to the region. Three routes are offered: 100 km (mostly the route of the historic Tour of the Valleys), 50 km, and 25 km. Registration is by donation (no set fee). Several food and water stops are available on each route. Commemorative cycling jerseys designed by Casey Blust's daughter are available for $75. For more info, registration forms and a peak at the jersey, go here.

A note from West Hill Shop: We are manning a feed station up on route 5. Any volunteers (even a half hour) would be appreciated. We are covered until noon, so we are looking for table sitting from noon to 2pm or so. Thanks!

Thursday Night Time Trial Results

August 2, 2008 - 89 degrees - no wind
Kurt Hackler 20:12

August Tuesday Night Rides

August 7: Rte. 30 Covered Bridge, Dover Hill, leader Joe Cook 5.30 pm
August 14: This evening is unassigned and looking for a leader. Email Jim Sweitzer if you have a ride you want to lead. 5.30 pm
August 21: Betsy's B'Day Ride, Weatherhead Hollow, Dinner Potluck 5.30 pm

D2R2

The Deerfield Dirt-Road Randonnee
On Saturday, August 25, 2007, the Third Annual Deerfield Dirt-Road Randonnee (D2R2) will start at 6 AM at the Franklin County Fairgrounds in Greenfield, Massachusetts. The ride will benefit the Franklin Land Trust. This RUSA populaire is breathtaking in both senses of the word: 107 miles, 70% on dirt roads, with 11,300 feet of climbing. There is a 12 hour time limit. The route is not marked, but a map, cue sheet, and checkpoint cards are provided, and food and fluids are provided at the checkpoints -- part of the challenge is not only the distance and climbing, but staying on course. Some of the cues from last year's ride: "Right at phone pole onto East Rd. (looks like Jeep track)." "Ignore Road Closed sign." "Very fast, twisty descent." "Road gets extremely rough." "Nasty climb next .75 miles." "Cows often in road next .5 miles." "Caution, begin gnarly descent - large stones and washouts next mile." I completed the ride with a cross bike. You can register on BikeReg.com. Link describing ride: http://newhorizonsbikes.com/page.cfm?PageID=347
Highly recommended. There are shorter options available too.

CURRENT RESEARCH IN SPORTS NUTRITION TALK

PRESENTATION: CURRENT RESEARCH IN SPORTS NUTRITION
6.30 pm Thursday July 26 at the West Hill Shop

Todd Miller, physical therapist and certified athletic trainer with a Master of Science in Human Performance, will be presenting a talk on the basics of nutrition and special concerns for athletes. He will be sharing exciting new research on what works best during activity and post-activity recovery. There will be endurance fuel samples for you to try, provided by Hammer Nutrition. Current Putney Bicycle Club members may attend at no charge; there is a $5 PBC donation for all others.

It would be great if you could let us know you are attending, through email or phone at 802-387-5718.

2007 Thursday Time Trials

THIS HAS BEEN POSTPONED TO THURSDAY AUGUST 2nd TO ACCOMMODATE TODD MILLER'S NUTRITION DISCUSSION.

The first Route 30 Time Trial will be AUGUST 2ND. We need volunteer timers. Pedr will volunteer as the first timer.

Email Pedr to volunteer yourself for future TTs.
Contact Jim at the West Hill Shop for additional info. 802-387-5718.

6PM Sharp

Start: Rt. 30, across from Cedar Street

Route: Rt. 30 out and back - approx 9.6 Miles

Riders will take off in 1-2 minute intervals.

Road Condition Alert

The descent on the east side of Dover Hill is torn up - from Yeaw Rd. to the Baptist Church - grooved pavement and dirt - as of July 12, 2007.

The Massachusetts side of the descent from the top of Huckle Hill has now been completely repaved. July 17, 2007

2007 Member Roster

Thanks to the following who have paid their annual dues for 2007.
Your support contributes to the existence of the club and its website - and pays for clinics and the end of the season party.

Alan Aaron
Peg Alden
Micheal Beh
Jon Bliss
Bruce L. Carlson
Jeremy Coleman
Steve Fortier
Nancy Gagnon, Bob Burch, Ryan Burch, Anna Burch
Sandy Garland
Lara Gooch
Kurt Hackle
Arne & Hollis Hammarlund
Kirsten Jeppesen
Neil Joseph
Will Kraham
Kathy Lapan
Dano Morris
Abijah Reed
Ward Ogden & Maria, Zizi, Meg
Pedr Seymour
David Shaw
George & Faith Terwilliger
Sarah Waldo
Kent Webster

June 26th Tuesday Night Ride

Just want to make sure everybody knows that the ride starts from Greenfield Community College parking lot.

Take 91 to 2nd Greenfield exit. Turn right on Route 2. Immediately turn right at first road. Go about a mile and turn left at Greenfield Community College sign into parking lot.

"Short" version is about 30 miles, long version is about 40 miles.

Dinner is at Mesa Verde in Greenfield.

FIX-A-FLAT (AND MORE) CLINIC

Free for Putney Bicycle Club members (all nine of you)
Thursday, June 14 6:00 PM

Sara will show you how to quickly and easily remove your wheel and change your flat tire, at home or on the road in a hands-on clinic. She will also give a quick overview on basic bike care and maintenance, as time allows. Bring your bike; we will provide tools.

The clinic is free to all current Putney Bike Club members; otherwise the fee is $5. There are a few spots left - for reservations call 802-387-5718 or email Diny.

Vermont Mountain Bike Association Meeting

Patrick Kell has invited Putney Bike Club members to the next Vermont Mountain Bike Association Meeting June 10th at Ascutney. The meeting is at 3pm for a ride and 5pm for the actual meeting. There will be discussion of Putney becoming a chapter of the VMBA.

Directions:
We'll be up in the 'Crow's Nest' in the Ascutney Hotel for the meeting. We can meet in the Nordic Ski Center Parking lot just down the road from the Hotel for the ride. Pass the Hotel on the left. Make a right at the stop sign. Make the first right and you'll see the Nordic Center sign. Park anywhere in the lot.

Racing Team Bus

My idea is to purchase a used yellow school bus (already half of the team colors), and convert it into a Putney/West Hill racing team vehicle that can be used to transport bikes, equipment, and racers to events (road races, crits, mt. bike races, cross races). We can paint it to match the jersey. Putney on the back, West Hill on the front, Putney/West Hill Race Team on the sides, with the shop phone number and website address. Take out a few rows of seats and install bike racks on the floor, bolt a set of rollers or two to the floor, hang a curtain for a changing area, park it in the field to be seen from I-91 when not in use to help drivers spot the shop. Not a full size bus, but not a converted van either -- mid-size. Preferably diesel. I am checking with DMV to see if the driver would need a CDL - probably not if used for strictly recreational purposes and noncommercial uses.

Here is a link to a possible bus: http://www.buscrazy.net/upload/L1745.htm

Any interest? Any ideas how to raise the money to buy one?

Will.

Tour of the Valleys, 2007

The annual Tour of the Valleys ride, which starts and ends at West HIll Shop, took place on the rain date of Sunday, May 20 - check out some pics here.

Do Your Part to Avoid Road Rage

We're reprinting this recent letter to the Brattleboro Reformer, because the writer has made some valid points. Safety (and road rage, which can result from one too many cyclists flaunting one too many rules of the road) are no laughing matter.

The rules of the road are simple, and there for specific reasons. Signal your turns and stops, stop at red lights and stop signs, use a portable light at dusk.

Drivers appreciate it. Other cyclists appreciate it. Your family appreciates it when they don't have to come visit you in the hospital.

When you're in the Tour de France, you can break all the rules you want.

In the meantime, use good sense and common courtesy. Protect yourself and be considerate toward those folks you are sharing the roads with - particularly the ones driving large heavy four-wheel objects traveling at high rates of speed.

Editor of the Reformer:

Now that the warm weather has arrived we are once again facing another "bicycle season." Last night while I was on my way to Townshend on an errand I saw the start of the season up close and personal -- two of the "Team Putney" cyclist were making a left hand turn out of Grassy Brook Road onto Route 30 without a pause or a second glance to see if there was any oncoming traffic. Now mind you, this was at dusk and they had no lights on their bikes whatsoever -- I am hoping that this year we can FINALLY see some enforcement of the rules as they pertain to bicyclists.

Growing up in Brattleboro we always had an officer from either the Brattleboro Police or Windham County Sheriffs Department hold an assembly where they went over the rules of the road regarding bicycles. It was stressed that all bikes needed to be registered, you rode with the flow of traffic, used hand signals (the proper kind and not the more commonly used vulgarities that seem so common these days), obeyed street signs and lights, rode single file except on specific paths or wide shoulders, etc.

Many times over the past several years I have come close to colliding with bikers simply because they did not adhere to these common sense rules -- they seem to think that they are invincible or that the laws do not apply where they are concerned. I have seen bikers ride through walk lights and come close to hitting pedestrians without missing a beat, ride on the sidewalks downtown, continue straight through a red light in the left hand turning lane and many more violations than I have the time to list.

I, for one, would like to see a crackdown and tickets given to these people who so wantonly disregard the rules of the road not only as a punishment but also as a lesson: A driver cannot always see them when they do things such as this especially when the light is fading or if the sun is shining brightly in our eyes. If I can receive a ticket for not wearing my seatbelt, then why is it a bicyclist is not ticketed for endangering themselves? It's all the same principle.

Andrew Buttery

Williamsville, May 9

Bike Workshop May 27th

Post Oil Solutions will sponsor a bike repair workshop Sunday, May 27, from 10:00 AM to noon, at the Brattleboro Commons.

This is part of the group's support for the Curb Your Car Challenge, running from 1 May-15 June, that it is co-sponsoring with the Brattleboro chapter of the Bike/Ped Coalition and the Upper Valley Ride Share (details of Challenge at www.postoilsolutions.org orwww.bike2work-day.com ).

The workshop will be led by Eric Bye, who has worked with bikes for 38 years, including time as a pro under the tutelage of Olympic cyclist Dave Chauner at Valuga Sports, in South Burlington, Vermont. It will focus on safety and adjustments, with particular attention to brakes, derailleurs and shifters, headset, bottom bracket, and wheels.

Participants are encouraged to bring the following tools if they have them:

• general tools, such as 6" adjustable wrench, old toothbrush, Swiss Army knife or screwdriver, tire pump, chain lubricant, WD-40, and a couple of rags; and
• any specialized bike tools (Allen wrenches, spoke tool, chain rivet tool, pedal wrench, bottom bracked tool, etc.)

However, don't worry if you don't have any tools--we'll share as needed during the workshop. And if the weather cooperates, we'll take a group ride to make sure the bikes are working satisfactorily, so bring your helmets!

Workshop fee $5; pre-registration required: 802 869 2141.

Membership Forms Available - Dues Due!

The 2007 Putney Bicycle Club membership forms are now available, both online and at the West Hill Shop. For your $20 annual membership fee ($30 for couples and families) you get:

*10% off tubes and tires
*10% off cycling tops and bottoms (jerseys, shorts, tights, etc.)
*10% off West Hill Shop clothing
*Free or discounted admission to bike clinics and workshops
*Invitation to the Summer Cycling Feast at the West Hill Shop
*Discounted entries to any West Hill Shop-sponsored bike races
*Ability to post to this website
*Putney Co-Op one-time 10% off coupon

You can mail the application with check or can pay at the West Hill Shop, 49 Brickyard Ln., Putney. Once dues are paid, you'll immediately be eligible for all these discounts, and we'll email you an invitation that will let you post reports, photos, or whatever to this website.

Questions? Email Sara. For ride schedule questions, contact Pedr.

TNR 2007 Spring Schedule

Spring Tuesday Night Ride Schedule
(you can also see the ride schedule on the Google Calendar at right - you will have to set up a free gmail sign-in to view it)
April 10: Retreat Pull-Off, no leader, 15-20 miles out and back, 5.30
April 17: Brattleboro Common, tri-state, no leader, 5.30
April 24: Brattleboro Common, route mud-dependent, leader: Bill Tancredi, 5.30
May 1: West Hill Shop, 49 Brickyard Lane, Putney, leader Robert Field, 5.30
May 8: Dummerston Covered Bridge on Route 30, no leader, 5.30
May 15: Grafton Pond/Chester loop, leader Joe Cook, dinner at Townsend Pizza, 5.30
May 22: Saxton's River Inn, leader Rick Gordon, dinner at Saxton’s River Inn, 5.30
May 29: West Hill Shop, Putney, no leader, 5.30
June 5: West Brattleboro Post Office, mountain bike leader Carl Lynde; road leader Andy Rome, potluck BBQ, burgers provided, bring salad or make dessert, 5.30
June 12: Brattleboro Common, leader Jim Robinson, dinner at Top of the Hill Grill, 5.30
June 19: Chesterfield Inn, leader Jesse Corum, dinner at Exit 3 Pizza, 5.30
June 26: Greenfield Community College, leader Bob Immler, 5.30
July 3: West Hill Shop, 49 Brickyard Lane, Putney, road leader Bill Caldwell,
MTB leader (Spofford loop) Bob Dumond, 5.30
July 10: Saxton’s River Post Office, leader Rick Gordon, dinner at Rick's – Potluck, BBQ, 5.30
July 17: Keene Wal-Mart Covered Bridge Ride, leader Bob, dinner at Margaritas, 5.30
July 24: This evening is now open and looking for a leader.
July 31: West Hill Shop, leaders, Robert Field and Tony Meal, dinner at Putney Inn
August 7: Rte. 30 Covererd Bridge, Dover Hill, leader Joe Cook 5.30
August 14: This evening is unassigned and looking for a leader. 5.30
August 21: Betsy's B'Day Ride, Weatherhead Hollow, Dinner Potluck 5.30

Questions, please contact Ride Coordinator Pedr Seymour

Bicycle Rally Protesting Climate Change

from Bob Immler:

When: April 14, 2007, meet at 10 a.m
We'll start at the high school parking lot and bike downtown to the street festival at Pliny Park, where we will take a big picture behind our banner. We want 1,000 bicyclists to take over the streets of beautiful downtown Brattleboro!
Awards for Most Radical Bicycle/Biggest Bicycle Signage/Most Colorful Bicycle/Most Flowers on a Bicycle/Loudest Horn/Most Outrageously Dressed Bicyclist.
Bring the family! Bring friends! (Remember your helmets.)

GROUP PIX & MEDIA MOMENT DOWNTOWN AT 11
This is an event of www.stepitup2007.org, a National Day of Climate Action, which demands that Congress cut carbon 80% by 2050. For more information, call 254-5852.
PLEASE FORWARD THIS MESSAGE TO YOUR BRATTLEBORO NEIGHBORS.

TNR Schedule for 2007

Hooray! Spring is finally here...

Alright, Spring is definitely not here, but I am diligently working on the TNR schedule for this year. The first ride is scheduled for this coming Tuesday, April 10th at 5:30(leaving at 5:45). This will be a Show & Go starting at the Retreat Pull-Off. Distance 15-20 miles out and back. The Retreat Pull-Off is immediately north of the Brattleboro Retreat on Route 30 opposite Cedar Street.

The remainder of this year's TNR schedule will appear on the Club's Google calendar. See the button on the right.

And just who is writing this post?

Pedr Seymour. You can pronounce my first name however you'd like. I was raised in Dummerston, escaped for 15 years to attend school and college and returned in '96 to eventually marry another native, Rebecca McBroom. We have 2 young kids and live in Brattleboro. I'll divulge the rest from my saddle when Spring finally arrives.

This weekend I'll be organizing the schedule and wrangling with the club's mass email distribution.

Pedr

TNR Planning Meeting April

It's time to meet to plan the Tuesday Night Ride Schedule for the year - we are meeting at 6.30 pm April 3 at the Marina Restaurant, 230 Main St., Brattleboro. All interested riders welcome!

Montreal to Boston Stage Race

There is a major pro race coming to Vermont this year: The 8 day Montreal to Boston Stage race. Some UCI ProTour teams, including T-Mobil, will be entered, plus major domestic US teams, and some national teams. The toughest day is the fifth stage, Aug 9, which will run from Jay Peak to Sugarbush.

Anyone interested in a trip up there? We could ride the route, and stop at whatever seems to be the decisive climb to
watch the pros climb.

Here is a link to a VeloNews article about the event.

Anyone planning to ride this weekend?

-Jeremy Coleman

PBC Ride Co-ordinator Wanted!

We're in the early stages of ride planning, and hope to soon have a meeting to plan this season's rides. Wanted: a ride co-ordinator to work with Scott Wade this season in creating and updating the ride schedule and other activities. Duties may also include sending out email notices.

Just email if interested!

Daq Woods update

Many people have been asking about Daq Woods, who suffered a compression fracture of his L2 vertebrae in a bad snowboard landing several weeks back. He's still at home recovering, and hopes to be back at work in a few weeks.

Some info about compression fractures: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000443.htm

If you'd like to donate to his medical/recovery fund, you can checks payable to Rena Woods "Daq Fund" to:
Chittenden Bank
Putney Branch
PO Box 227
Putney, VT 05306-0227