I have not written in some time. I have been busy racing!! Well, The team has had a very successful season. Thanks to our wonderful sponsors for all of the support. We are a very special group, one is because our team is spread out through the metroplex. Kim Jennings in Waco, whom is well supported by Bicycles-Outback in Waco. And Because of Doug and Rick over at Colonels Bicycles in Ft.Worth, I had a super fast bike to ride for the season. I know Becky and I have recieved a great deal of support from Austin Bikes. As I am lucky to be on one of the fastest mountain bikes out there. Nothing but the best. Orbea. For the rest of the team, they owe a lot of thanks to Boyd over at Dallas Bike Works. We are forever grateful for all of the support we recived this year. Christian Williams, head coach at Lone Star Works, has been a great coach for this team. Rudy over at the finish line, for the best sport massage ever. This team has represented ! We are constantly on the podium , and here lately it's 1st & 2nd & 3rd in most cases. What can We Say? Thanks again. And my team, Cat-1 Tracie Akerhelm, cat-2's Tammy Wallace, Michelle Montonya, cat 3's Cassandra Crisswell, Kim Jennings;Kelly Stark and 4's Becky Reilly, Bibi M-Miller,Nancy Reidl .

Looking for '09 Sponsors!

If you are interested in helping an All Women's Cycling team, please contact me. Email me at cyne7@aol.com

Bad Group Ride~RBM~North Ride

Last Saturday we decide to head towards the Dallas Area to ride with the girls in their neck of the woods. We head to Michelle's and ride towards the group that leaves the RichardsonBikeMart Shop. Boy, this ride was Crazy from the Start! It was a huge group, and we hit lights every other intersection, yes we are riding "IN TOWN".The riders fail to mention "Slowing" Stopping, etc. So, of course, I am "warning" the riders behind me, no one wants to get rear ended! Yikes. And this is by no means a "casual" pace. I mean, it is a sprint from light to the next. Well, this gets bad. As I just mention to Tracie, "that I can't see a thing in front of me" . So, all of a sudden, I barely miss a barricade, apparently the road narrowed and shifted over to the left. Well, all of the riders in mid pack and beyond were crammed into a small area fast. Going 25mph, Kim Chance T-bones a barricade comes off and some others crash. Of course, not knowing at the time, who went down, but knew several from behind the crash stopped. A good thing, two riders in the back were paramedics and called 911, and were able to stabilize Kim's neck. She broke her C1 & C2 in her neck. This is so scary! The ride after the crash did not get much better, even at the end when, only a handful were left. Boy, someone needs to teach these Dallas boys how to ride. I have been pretty spoiled riding in Flower Mound, where the group rides are monitored and everyone has respect for other riders. We point out turns/stops/holes or whatever may need to be announced. Kim Chance is an Expert Mountain Biker, so it is not like she has no handling skills. Watch out ! I hope the RBM people can learn from this, and make some positive changes. As for me, I will no longer go on that ride!

I got my upgrade!

Yipee! I am now a Pro Roadie! I recieved my upgrade from USA Cycling today!!

Fort Davis~Race Reports

Day 2-Friday


Not much sleep but I am very "Amped" because, the team starts to arrive. We all get settled and get out for a ride . I spin my legs first on my Giant, then, get the borrowed TT bike ready for a ride, thank you Bryan Wadie for the Loaner! I would say she worked out great, but I really stunk at the time trial. I would definitely say, you need to spend some quality time on the TT prior to racing it. It's is kinda hard when you are Mountain bike racing and road racing every weekend. Saturday Time Trail : Tammy was first to go from the team then, Michelle , myself (Smith) and then, Tracie. Now, this is the first time I have ever done a tt race on a tt bike. "Good Luck" . Tammy and Tracie did very well, they both looked very comfortable during the race. Yes, I got to see both, first was when team mate Tracie passed me during the tt, and then, I noticed Tammy as she was heading back after the turn around. I should have been focusing on my tt, But, that is the thing, I totally lost focus. As I Hated the position. I wanted to stand up and sprint . I kept thinking if I was on my mtb , I could do this. But, this is nothing like the mtb. So, yes I did very poorly on the TT , and started out a stage race very behind in points. That is okay. because I had two other team mates with much better times. I am not sure if I will do this again, but assure you . I will come back to redeem myself.

Fort Davis

We decide to head out Thursday afternoon,2:00p.m well, that was the initial plan. RK is stuck in Traffic only 2 exits from Tammy's. Meanwhile, I am on my way.. running behind though, I get the redirected route to Tammy's . So, we finally get there, 2:45 p.m. and we are looking at all the "Stuff" that is suppose to fit in the car. We have 3 people, 5 bikes and 4 bike racks. So, one bike will need to go into the Subaru. My Giant has the integrated seat post, so that is out of the question. Tammy and Kim, "I can't take my seat post off" . Okay... So, we decide to take one of the bike racks off of Tammy's car to place on my car. Along with the other two bikes ,space saver all on top of the car. What is the weight limit for a Subaru? 100 lbs..? Though, the bike has to be placed backwards on the car, to fit next to my bike. Now we have more room in the car. We finally get all loaded up and head out 4:00 p.m. make our first stop, 4:05 pm to get Ice. Which, happened to be in the back of the car, so we had to unload the bikes off the back to get to the coolers to add ice. Load the bikes back on and were off. 4:20p.m. We get on I20 heading West. And the wind is a gusting 30mph , it is soo Windy. I am keeping an eye on the bikes. Still very nervous, I decide to pull over and just do a bike check. Everything is fastly secured. So, back to it. 5 minutes later, I am looking in the mirror and I see Tammy's Bike Fly OFF The CAR. I PULL OVER, and we run out, see her bike laying in the fast lane. Meanwhile, another vehicle who witnessed it all, pulled over to the left, and is running back to the bike, and Drags the bike out of the way, just in time to be saved from the Semi Trucks. Thank God. We get to the bike, and believe it or not, It is all in tact. Looks good. The saddle is torn up , hoods are bent inwards, and the wheel seems to be out of true, and the derailler hanger is bent. So, 5:00p.m We place the bike in the back seat, Tammy jumps in the front with Kim and we head to Colonel's . 5:15p.m. Get to Colonels and Tim works on the injured bike. 5:30 pm , Tammy decides to stay back with her bike and hitch's a ride to Fort Davis. 5:45 pm Kim and I decide to head on out. On the road now, 6:00 p.m. About this time, is when Kim realizes she lost her retainers when we stopped off of I20 earlier. So, we thought, well, we will go back to the scene of the crime, and our only knowledge of location was from the highly littered area we had walked thru , back to our car earlier. So, we stop and what do you know.. Kim finds her lower retainer!! Places it back into her mouth.. it is still good, she replies. she continues to look for the upper retainer, no luck. so We decide to hit the road. Were in the car and our way. ETA is 1:30 A.M, Actual arrival time, 3:40 a.m. Bed Time 4:00 a.m. Oh, and Kim finds her other retainer in the Car. They say bad luck is better then no Luck at all. Stay tuned for more..

I have learned..

Some things I have learned as a Cyclist.

1. Time goes by very Slow when taking an ICE BATH.
2. It helps to drink Coffee while taking an Ice Bath
3 If you think you may need a massage, You better get one, prior to your race.
4. While traveling with your bike on the roof rack, be sure the bike is placed forwards. note to self, not to place the bike with the saddle facing the front of the car.
While racing..
5. Not everyone has bike handling Skills.

Feel free to Add to the list.. (by adding a comment to this post )

Palo Pinto Race Report

The Women that are out racing this year, are really out racing. So, different from the past years of Womens racing in Texas. Better Competition ? I guess .. Their are some really strong girls out there and I hope to continue to see the Women come out and race. We all started to work together from the start so it was very Fair , this makes it easier when you are riding into the strong Winds that Texas racing seems to bring. I am very impressed with our Lone Star Works racing team. Annick (AT&T) decided to attack as we were approaching the feed zone, (personally, I think this is wrong) . She was quickly joined by Christina Moore (Austin Flyers) and they worked together , so of course it was up to Lone Star Works to chase them down, and that We Did. We get to the climb, (which, I wasn't sure if it Was THE Climb) As Tracie informs me, it's a long climb. I thought she had said, it was not the Climb, though, it worked out better. She set the pace up the Climb, and I looked back, And the field was gone. We had a Huge Gap. We get to the top, and Tracie takes off. She was able to Solo it in from the top of the climb for the Win, and I solo' d it for 2nd and Tammy was able to sprint in from the chasers. Michelle ended up in 8th place.

Thanks Tim! And the rest of the Gang at Colonel's

The Giant needed some attention after Saturday's race. So, Toby and I headed to Colonel's Bicycle shop in Ft. Worth for some major TLC for the TCR! Tim is one of the mechanics at Colonels and is one of the best mechanics around. He is very Thorough, and takes very much pride in his Work. Not only did he take care of my bike, but he also worked on Toby's bike, as someone ran into his derailler on the sprint finish. Luckily he didn't go down! Thanks again Tim!

LoneStarWorks.com Race Reports

Lone Star Works had an Awesome Weekend Of Racing. The Lone Star Works Women's racing team took the top three spots for both days of racing. On the Dirt, My Clients all had podium finishes as well. Bibi Martinez Won the Women's Expert Category and Ranger Kim also Won her expert Class. Mike Norman had his first 2nd place finish. And Steve remains as one of the top contenders in his division with a 5th place finish at Warda. Race Report for Saturday's Road Race in Possum Kingdom The course was a beautiful route, the Women's race did two 24 mile loops. At the climb, Tracie A. jumped on the climb, meanwhile I was stuck in the back, so I decided to wait and get a ride up to her, as we made it up the top of the climb, Chris Wolfe from San Hose, tried to bridge up, so I jumped on her wheel bridged up to Tracie and then it was followed by two counters in a row, by Smith and Mini Pizzini, the two had created a gap and a break, which was joined by Michelle Montoya,aka M&M and we were quickly pulling through and then, joined by Tracie Ak. (Wow!!) We had a break for a while, but we would eventually get caught . So, the main group stays away until another attempt by Pizzini, Wolfe managed to bridge up with Smith on her wheel. then, a major slow up and Wolfe moving right, took Smith's wheel out. The field went around and I got up quickly to chase back to the group. Of course, this time I looked down and opened up the break lever, which was rubbing on the wheel. I noticed the group ahead and making attacks. With less then, 2 miles from the finish, I managed to get back on. We ended up with a Sprint Finish. I squeezed in between two riders, noticed Tracie on the right, Lead me out for the Win, and Tracie came in 2nd and MM 3rd. Tammy ended up with a 6th place finish.

Day 2 Rain, Manda Road Race

The rain started early for us today, a 7:55 a.m. Start. Not my ideal time to race, but we had brought along the Orbea mountain bikes to get a ride in after the road race. Didn't expect we would be doing a bit of mtb'ing in the race. In Toby's race he ended up going off the road into a cornfield, managed to get right back into the race without putting a foot down.
Luckily the women's race had no crashes. The roads were wet and the course involved several turns through out the race, made the course for a very technical ride.
We had a descent field size, as they combined the women for an open race. The break that stuck was probably about half way through the race. Christina Moore made an attack, and no one went, I seized the opportunity when we had two turns approaching. I jumped before the corner and yelled as I was approaching for Moore to jump on, she couldn't react at the time. I decided to keep on going through the second corner. Of course, I had chasers and as soon as they arrived, I heard Daniele S. yell, "Christina, PoP It", so I did. And jumped again and we were Off. Kate Sherwin, Chris Wolfe, myself and then joined by Natalie Klemko. We all rotated through as the chase group followed closely behind. Team mate, Bibi was the only cat 4 in the chase group. Way to Go Bibi!! As we approached the finishing stretch Chris W. attacked and we bridged up fast , though, we had stopped pulling thru. I looked back, I noted the field and Natalie suggested we still pull thru. We pulled thru a bit, but then Chris W. and Natalie stopped pulling thru. So, Kate was pulling and I was waiting for the jump, which I figured it would come from behind. But, we got closer and Kate decided to go for it. I was on the right and started to go, but noticed there wasn't that much room to the right, so I decided to back off and go to the left and ended up having to throw my bike out in front of me to the line. I missed it by a hair! I should have Jumped. But, I am learning! No one came around . Kate with the win and I took 2nd, Klemko 3rd . The chase group sprinted in and Bibi finished 11th overall. Way to Go Beebs! Thanks again, Colonels for the Awesome Giant and Kenda tires, and Gu energy gels.

Racing in the Rain! Belterra Road Race

I actually don't mind the wet conditions for a road race. I do however feel the urge to give a last minute prep course on wet conditions 101

Well, we had several "breaks" that just would not stay away, due to the fast descents . So, it came down to the Sprint finish. I was a bit unlucky for my position. As Natalie Klemko jumped, Shontell was to the left of me I had to go right, and ran out of room, literally. I found myself sprinting alongside the curb, not even on the pavement, you know the concrete that is only a foot wide from the curb, yeah, that is where I was . I just didn't have enough room to really get my sprint going. So, managed to get 3rd place. Kim Coilli came around at the end for the win, Shontell 2nd. Not so happy with 3rd .



Cat 4 race-Bibi decided to chase down the unfortunate break that didn't quite make it. (Big Girls can Descend with very little effort) So, ended up getting swallowed up by the field and took 7th overall. Not bad for the effort and the conditions.


On The Home Front
Team mate Tracie A. went out for the Aledo Rally, The first Women to cross the finish line for a 150. bucks..But, what was more impressive she tied for 3rd overall. That girl is Smokin' Fast!
Team Mate Becky Reilly went out for some Friday Night Lights, thats Track Racing, Becky finished 4th place. Way To Go Becky!

Waco-Bicycles Outback Presents Outback Blowout

This years race course added a long climb before finishing the 7.7 mile loop with 864 feet of elevation gain, that makes just under 3,000 feet of climbing. The Expert Women ages 19-39 did 2 1/2 laps. We all lined up for a fast road start around the big median, a crowd pleasing start. I like to start hard and sprint from the gun. No drafting off this Wheel.
I actually was not feeling so great for this race, so luckily for me the race course suited me pretty well. Pro Kim Jennings was behind me, followed on her wheel Bibi Martinez. Yee Haw! Bibi eventually would get passed by Leslie Reuter, whom is a very strong all around mtb'er. Though, managed to have a 3rd place finish for the 30-39 age group. And Kim Jennings won the 19-29 age group. The carbon Absalon Alma hardtail helped me win the Race. I would like to congratulate Steve Innes for getting 3rd in his category and Mike Norman who placed 7th in his category. And congrats to Kim Colli for winning her age category in the Sport Class.

Photo Shoot www.gotstrong.com

I did a photo shoot last year for a bike messenger company. T. Strong transportation service. Again, this year Torrance (the president of T. Strong) asked if I would do the photo shoot for their web site. So, check it out at www.gotstrong.com

LSW-PreRide Waco

At Least once a month, I host a ride/ Clinic for LoneStarWork Clients.
We decided to go to Waco the day after Smithville... Because I didn't get enough riding in the day before?? I know I am Crazy! And I was to Hit the Hills Hard ! (thanks Coach!) I actually Love To Climb , Especially Power Climbs. Cameron Park is one of my favorite Trails, it is a Must See 'N Do trail. Bicycles Outback in Waco and the City of Waco do a great Job keeping this trail Fantastic. And team mate Kim Jennings or Ranger Kim works here at the Park. The race is this coming weekend March 15 &16th. So, You Betta Go Get Your Massage from Rudy, You will need it before this race.

Smithville Marathon

5 Hours and 27 Minutes of riding Smithville Backwards, a grueling 20 mile loop. The first lap was a bit Harsh to say the least. I lined up on the front row along with the Open Men's class. It was bitter Cold, an 8:30a.m start. I was doing laps around the entrance to try to warm up, it was the only spot where the Sun was shining . Since I didn't get a great warm up, I was ready to go from the gun. In fact, I was the only one ready to go from the gun. The first lap was brutel, my ribs are still very sore from pace bend a few weeks ago, so it took a while before the ribs would feel no pain. After the first lap, I was able to find my rhythm and began catching guys. I finished strong, however, I asked myself... Now Why did My Coach Have me do this race??? That was Not Fun. But, I guess.. No Pain, No Gain!!! It was in deed a good training Ride. And the promoters gave a 150.00 for the fastest Women. So, not bad for a days work. Great Job goes out to Tanya Woody, she had the second fastest time.

Today, playing in the snow.. March-
And a photo of my Fabulous bike!

Bar H, Mountain Biking

The Breaks at Bar H, located in St. Jo , Texas a small community east of Gainsville, Texas. They put this one on the Texas Mountain Bike Series as Cross Country race #2.

Many thanks to all who are responsible for making this event possible, The D.O.R.B.A. (Dallas Off Road Bicycling Association) Mad Duck and Yeti who are the main sponsors for this event. A Big thanks to to these great people for such an Awesome Event, Tobin and Jennifer Behling, Cap Carter , Judy, Yurgen, Bill(president of Dorba) , Cindy Bradly , and tons of great Sponsors, and Volunteers. Free beer, Great Swag for the Sport and Beginner racers compliments of DFW Local Bike shops. Yes Free Beer is not unusual for a mountain bike event

Toby and I lead the Lone Star Works pre ride Clinics Friday & Saturday. This is just a bonus for those that are coached under Lone Star Works. So, if you are ever interested in a Skills Clinic or Private Lessons, Email me. This is not just for mountain biking, but for cycle cross training and handling skills are always needed on the road too!

The Course was super fast, more of a power course, fast flowing turns, plenty of power climbs and one long false flat. This was great for my Special Edition Carbon Orbea. Boy, this bike is something else. Remember if you want a fast Bike, Check out Orbea's web site, this bike can be purchased from Austin Bikes. I was also running on the super Light Stan's No Tube wheels and Kenda's Nevegal tire in front with the Karma in back.

The women unfortunately only had 2. 5 laps, where as the Expert Men had 3.5 laps. I finished my laps in 1.25 minutes, I did manage to get a great work out in, but had to go out for another lap since I wanted a bit more time on the bike. I loved the stagger for this race, I was able to catch a lot of other groups, which kept my mind in the race.

Kim Jennings Won the 19-29 Expert Women Category, (just a couple minutes behind Leslie Reuter)Go Kim!! I won the 30-39 Expert Category and Bibi (after just starting up this week to her training due to having the Flu) placed 4th just a couple minutes behind Kim J. Man, that girl is getting Fast!

Pace Bend

YIKES!
Going into this race with Closure strips holding My Bum together. A sore shoulder from Walburgs crash.
Not even sure If I am capable of pedaling my bike, so I am prepared not to race. (yeah right) Get on the rollers and okay, not bad, so Tammy and I are warming up for the race, as Justin (tammy's hubby) informs us of the scary crash he just witnessed. Okay, so If the race gets to sketchy I will just pull out.
A couple laps in, and someone makes a Stupid mistake and wipes out half the field, including myself. I am Super Upset now, I get up and can't even find my bike, as I look up and notice Catherine (kenda) has my bike, which is all tangled with hers, I carefully untagle the mess, put my chain back on and turn back to team mate Tracie, she is okay, so Lets Go!!!! I put it in my Big Ring and hammer. It took us about 3/4 a lap to catch back up to the group. I am glad we did all of that work as the race later came to a complete Halt, later learned some pro 1-2 guy made a dumb move and took out some of the cat 4 women. Boy would this have been a different finish if the promoters would not have Shortened our Lap. ??? I mean, these races are not even 50 miles. Oh Well.
Though, not very happy how I just needed a bit more patience . I didn't want to slow down for the final turn, I decided to take it fast and about 15 or so feet from the line I get swallowed up by the field. Bad Move. But , team mate Tracie took a third place. Way to go Tracie.

Walburg-Road Race

I am not so much of a Road Racer.. I think>>>?? I get caught up in crash, on the first lap. I was on the edge of the road and the grass, not a bad place to be .. However, we had a cross wind, and just before I go down, I hear some yapping on my left, boom, I go down, I just do a roll over, and then, get back up fast, grab my bike without noticing anything wrong just look up as I see the pack, already 200 yards or so gone.. I get back on fast, team mate Kim Jennings rolls up and asks, are you okay? I say yes, and we take off, Kim helps me bridge back up, as she pulls as hard as she can, I go around, and then, I see Kim falling off, I try to encourage her to come up, but I was doing all I could to get to the group. I finally make it, but am really suffering here, so I figured it was because I was in the back, so I come up around to get out of the wind. Still dying here. I notice my stem is off centered, and Duh!! I notice my brake closed on my rim. Yes, I was riding wiht my brake completely rubbing. I reach down to open my break lever, which, helped but was still touching a bit, due to the wheel being out of true. No wonder I felt like crap! I learn that Kim is back on, and we continue to race. I managed to take 2nd place, behind Shontell Gauthier (Colavita) . A bit disappointed since, this could have been a win for me due to the uphill finish. Though, my team mate Tammy who just received her cat 2 upgrade, got a 5th place finish. Way to go Tammy. I do have to say, this was a great Team effort here . I have to thank Michelle for all of the hard efforts, and Kim for helping get back onto the race, and Tammy for her hard efforts too. I later learned that Tracie was caught up in the crash as well, but, she had to chase on all by herself. sorry Tracie.. I had no idea.. But, she was able to get back on.. and finish 4th place. Way to go Lone Star Works. Thanks again, goes to Colonels Bicycles in Ft. Worth, for the fast Giant .

Thanks Ben from Austin Bikes

I have to send out a Big Thanks to Ben over at Austin Bikes.

I came to race on the road this past weekend at Walburg and Pace Bend. Well, was involved in a crash on Saturday (Walburg)

And my bike needed some help, my front wheel was out of true. My stem was off center and no telling what else had happened to it. Luckily for me, there is Austin Bikes in Austin ,Texas.. I took it up and not only did he true my wheel, he looked over the entire bike so meticulously, I knew I was in good hands. Of course, a good mechanic always get on the bike to make sure it is running smoothly. And sure enough, Ben took it on a ride and everything was good. He even cleaned my chain and wiped my bike down . Boy, did I feel special. Thanks Ben !!!! I hope everyone in Austin comes to see you guys. Owners of Austin Bikes Sol& Eric, A big thanks to you Guys!!!

Mas O Menos-Race Report

The weather predicted was harsh... but reality is ... wait.. there is no reality in the desert.

It was not your average Mountain Bike Race, It was more like a Road Time Trial, or at least that is what it felt like. This race was the first race on the Ultra Endurance National Calendar and the Texas Cross Country Circuit (TMBRA.ORG) . Luckily for me it was the last Marathon race for the Texas Marathon Series, it is official, I am the defending Texas State Marathon Champion for 2008. Yipee!! Two Down!!

They start the Pro Women on the line with the ProMen and we have a neutral start until the road crossing. And you come over the road and onto the gravel road, now of course it is a very fast start and I must say, I had a hard time seeing what was in front of me. So, I didn't do my usual hard sprint start, this paticuliar course had a lot of rollers, tight loose gravel turns, with some nice unexpected dips and trenches along the way. So, choosing a good line is a Must. As the guys tear out of there and just leave a Cloud of Dust for View> I didn't know where any of the girls were, until Jennifer Wilson (Titus) came by me.. Of course, I couldn't let that happen, and turn it up a couple more notches. We come onto the single track and it is just a train of guys in front , were all moving nicely. until the first little loose Power Climb, a lot of people are having to get off their bikes. Thankfully for my cycle cross training, If I have to get off of my bike, I am sure to be running my bike up the climb. Well, I then get passed in the Valley of thick gravel . So, I am now behind some guy who is directly behind Jennifer Wilson. As we get out back onto the open single track, I am really itching here.. I know this is where I am fast. I hear the guy in front of me asks to pass, as He goes around Jennifer, I stay on his wheel and go right by here, brushing up against some sticker bush... ouch.. that Hurt
I begin to go hard, I look ahead, and I can see Lucas, I keep him in sight for a while and come by to pass.. I had wondered if he knew I started with the guys.. Come to find out, he thought I started five minutes back. oops. Well, it is not until the first Great Big Climb, I could look down, and see Jenifer starting to make the climb.. ***Crap** I am in my middle chain ring and pushing up this thing, trying to stay focused, as the climb gets a bit technical towards the top. I never see her again, however, I know she is not too far behind and still chasing. I do get passed by the leader in the Men's Expert 30-39 class, Dan Optke (San Jose) Boy, is he fast. He came by me on the climb just spinning his legs so fast, I had to take a double take.. I couldn't believe it. Wow.. Then, at the top of the climb, we still had some more climbing to do, more like false flats. Before the Long sketchy loose gravel Descent, which typically I Love descending.. but, after my 2 flats on the preride, I knew the last thing I needed was flat, so descended conservatively. Luckily for me I changed my front tire to a Kenda Nevagal . Sweet Tire. It could handle any loose corner at great speeds.
Well, I didn't see another guy until starting the second lap, I then ride with John Rigdeon whom is pretty fast in the open sections. Going into the second lap, for the Last time making it to the Climb. Well, before the climb , way.. before the climb.. we have our 2nd feed zone area before you cross the road , to the road that leads to the Big Climb. I have to stop and grab my feeds out of my cooler, and Ridgen passes me on the feed. And as I get back on the bike , I see them ahead on the jeep road , looking back, and attacking.. I was in my big ring going as hard as I could to catch up to them. Finally, catch up, and how sweet it was to see John Sanborn (Dallas Bike Works) ... He was a bit disappointed I had caught him. Though, the wind changed directions as we hit that final Climb, so you were climbing into a head wind, and I had to drop down into my granny ring, which I never do. And I felt like I was going backwards at this point. And then, Lucas (Bike Plus) came spinning past me. I started to feel my rhythm again on the downhill, and unlike the first lap, I was now thinking of my record time. I didn't know it at the time, but I did manage to beat my record by a minute. Finished first Place with 4 hrs and 51 minutes. I want to thank Kenda, for the Great Awesome Tires. And My Super Fast World Champion Bike. The Orbea Alma "Absalon" , edition, Sweet, stiff , Very Fast Bike. You can get your very Own Special Edition Alma Absalon Bike at Austin Bikes in Austin, Texas. The Tires and the Bike makes a Huge Difference. Oh, and I have to Thank Rudy at the Finish Line, Therapy Center, for my great massage I had before My trip. (And afterwards!)

Cycling News 2008: Ultra Endurance National

By Sue George with assistance from Mike Gladu
Jason Sager leads Bryan Fawley Photo ©: Mike Gladu

After the traditional lead-out by the Mystery Man opened the annual Mas O Menos race, Jason Sager (MonavieCannondale.com) won the Open Class Champion in the 100km event held over President's Day weekend. Sager battled Bryan Fawley (TX Tough San Jose) for much of the race while Even Plews (Capitol Subaru) rode alone in third behind them.
Sager led Fawley the first of two times up the Tres Cuevas climb, and also claimed the cash bonus for first Open rider to the "Top of the Hill" 1866. Armando Zacarias and Nat Ross came next behind them. Fawley surrendered some ground before the finish and ended up third behind Sager and Plews in 4:07:30. Sager finished with a time of 4:05:03, over a minute ahead of Plews with Fawley two and half minutes back.
Christina Smith repeats as the Open Women 100k winner Photo ©: Mike Gladu

Christina Smith (Lonestarworks/Austin Bikes) took the Open Women 100k winner at 4:51:08 and became a repeat winner in front of Jennifer Wilson (Titus) and Alice Pennington (S&M/Desalvo Custom Cycles), while Julia Kastner brought home the 19-29 100k win with a 6:16:53 and Zoe Nance took the 30-39 100k win in 6:05:58.
The race served as simultaneous stops on the 2008 Texas Championships Mountain Bike Series, the Hill Country Bicycle Works Championships Marathon Series and the USA Cycling National Ultra Endurance Calendar.
Photography

First Road Race/ Criterium: T.O.N.B

I have to say, I am soo Excited about our team. I had so much fun hanging out with all you guys this past weekend. I loved racing with you all, Sharing Good times and Laughs. I knew we had a strong team, but I am really impressed how we all came together out there "on the court" . We all had our Game faces on for opening Weekend, well, maybe not exactly, but felt like it anyway.. Now, I can just imagine what people are saying now, what a Great Looking Squad!! Yes, those Kits had everyone talking. I have never received so many compliments regarding Kits, Thank you Bibi, are Senior Art Director designed our kits this year. Boy they look Sharp! And the Hot Socks! Yes those are a Smith Special :) Go to Harlotwear.com they are the Einstein Socks
T.O.N.B. What a Beautiful Place, Both events the criterium and Road race were both great Courses. The Road race is held in a Coach Oulet Mall Parking Lot. As our princess, Tammy Wallace enjoyed the shopping, she had every reason to celebrate, what a race she had. 4th in the field sprint, on Sunday. There were a lot of Strong girls in the Womens Open field,quite impressed, especially seeing Joyce Basinger finishing with the pack, way to go. Pro mountain Biker, Kim Jennings and team mate, really made some girls work ! What is so cool, Is they haven't seen nothing Yet. Kim's Legs stretching the peloton out, one by one.. falling off, only leaving the strongest to be there for the finish. I do have to say the Lone Star Works will be the team to watch. What a great start for the season. We Had a Win for both days!!!

The Crit on Saturday, I think I was a " in the right place at the right time, kinda win",I mean, the course is not known of breaks sticking. I never really think about that during the races I guess. As Michelle can give a better race report then I can for the crit ;).

Michelle Montoya, does make the first move, I have to say, it is pretty tense within the first 5min of the race when their is an Attack right off the back , driven by Michelle Montoya, a strong Lone Star Works rider, the group stays together, despite all of the hard attempts, Mel Brown, Solar Eclipse, even Lori Barrett takes off, a little too excited, she over shoots her turn and ends up in the grass, as the group comes around to swallow the San Jose rider, whom finishes her race with a flat. Natalie Klemko apparently a race favorite, sat in for the sprint, as they say, Close but no Cigar, to finish with a 2nd Place. The One that Got away, For the last lap, Kate Sherwin makes the move, without thinking I jump and bridge up to the pro. I let her know to keep going, that I will fly down this descent, sure enough, were off, with the group chasing close behind, they keep us in sight, as I am pretty nervous to use my energy, as all I can think of, is Winning this race at this point. At one point, I look back, thinking we were going to get caught, okay , I didn't want to get caught, Kate never says anything, I start to put a bit more into this break, as I can't believe the finish is coming near, we approach the ambulance, (which was on the course from an earlier accident in the cat 4 race) 500 m?? not too far. I come around Kate and Sprint to the finish, I hear the spectaturs, yelling ," there coming!!!!" :o. I make the last shift on my super stiff, sprinter friendly New Giant, provided by Colonels . I do have to say I can't wait for a Sprint, that Bike Is Awesome. Thanks Doug and Rick from Colonels!

The Road RAce...... do believe it was one of the toughest road races I have attended. Now, that may have to do with all of the attempts we had to make to try to get a break, but everyone was hanging on. As, the new strong San Hose girls did there share of pulling and working.
This course appears to be well suited for the chics from Lone Star Works, it had a fair deal of rollers, false flats, fast descents, and some pretty sharp corners, I especially love the descent to the 90 degree turn onto the uprutted chip and seal, or do we just call it gravel here in Tejas? :o. Unfortunately, they don't require mountain bike lessons for roadies. I am talking about some of the girls that are racing out there. Strong enough to hang on to the group, but can't keep a straight line. Come 'on girls.. go back to the basics here.

Michelle made some early jump attempts to start the games . One break, I guess it was just too early on, we had several strong riders, including Natalie Klemco pro from Advil Chapstick, Tammy Wallace, , Tracie A. Christina S. . . The group would keep on reeling people back to the peloton. It worked out pretty well for the one that finally did stick. Apparently two girls got away, Chris Wolfe from San Jose, whom is pretty strong, and Annick Beaudet from At&T she was formerly on Austin Flyers. Well, the peleton passes on the opportunity to chase,two riders were not going to stay away, If Smith and Tracie Akerhelm, couldn't keep the hungry pack away..., they just kept the two in eyesight. A chase group forms from the peloton, I know Lone Star Works, Tracie Akerhem and Solar Eclipse Kim Coilli whom was working through out the day forms a get away. As the peloton is not too far behind the chase group, I look ahead we are approaching a slight decline to a sharp turn, that shoots you up hill. I know I dont want to be behind everyone as we make this descent and corner, I knew I could bridge up to the two who got away. I make the attempt, one hard jump and I hammer through the corner and "Yell" to the chase group, "UP "UP "UP"!!! :o. Thankfully for me, Tracie jumps on to my wheel and I bridge up to the two, feeling like I am going to die, as we get up to Chris Wolfe, and Annick B, Tracie comes around and starts to pull.
Sweet. We are making short hard pulls, I keep hearing Tracie scream, in a soft voice, Yeah! as I remind her, we are not in the clear yet. I know the break would not have stuck unless we had at least 4 girls, we pushed hard for a lap and 3/4 out of the 4 laps which, were 12 mile loops. Apparently, the San Jose girl, Chris Wolfe, tried to attack ? As we were already going pretty hard, I just thought she was making hard pulls. I guess she thought I was getting tired, since we both reminded her to ease up on the pull throughs . Tracie remindes her that she is going to drop someone, that someone ended up being the AT & T , Annick Beaudet. The wheel truck pulls up along side and announces the left turn is soon approaching to the finish , this was about the time our group realizes, We all Made it . I decide to come around in front to pull through the corner, but, I didn't jump, I slow up just to the inside of the turn, probably not the best spot, since there was a cross wind coming on my left side, I know it had been a tough race, not sure how much effort I was going to have to put out as Tracie and I both had her covered, waiting for the "jump" Well, it really never came, I am assuming she fell off, or didn't want to contest the sprint? Or maybe she just ran out of gas, before the finish line, as Tracie and I acclerate up to the finish line, and no there was no Thelma & Louise Finish. 1st Traice and 2nd Christina, an awesome finish. We spin around to watch the field sprint, as Kim Jennings, Strings the pack out along the 1/2 mile finish stretch. Sheri Roth, Austin Flyers on Kims wheel, whom played a smart race to win the Field Sprint, and Lone Star Works, Michelle Montoya just a breath behind Sheri followed by Shelby with Sugar Cycles for 3rd, just in front of 4th , Lone Star Works, Tammy Wallace, following behind with enough energy to get a top 9th finish overall from the Lead out lone star Work Kim Jennings.

I do have to say, a lot of nice girls out there racing. Now, I can't wait when we have everyone out , Cassandra,Becky, Kelly, and the Beebs. This is going to be So Awesome!!! It was a great Circuit Venue, I loved the course or "route" as you roadies may call it. Tobin and Jennifer put on a great RAce, and we will always Return to T.O.N.B, as this is always a Favorite. Tobin and Jennifer also were great Hosts, as they opened their homes to the team.

Cycle Cross-

2006-2007 State Cycle Cross Champion
2007-2008 State Cycle Cross Champion

I tried Cycle Cross Last year for the first time, really enjoyed it so this year I decided to race cross on a Cross Bike. Much Better. Even though, I did win the State championship on a mtb :)

Marathon Series-2008

Mountain bike: Marathon -endurance distance

December 5th, Rock Springs, Camp Eagle
Place: 1st Women Open
Conditions were wet and Slick. The Open Women lined up on the line with the Open Men and the race was a Mass Start. I really didn't have anyone in my class, so I knew this was going to be a training ride for me, but the conditions were slick, so priority was to stay Safe. Now, some people may think you have to be crazy to race this course in wet conditions, let alone race it for a marathon race. The course is very technical, which I just love, plus we did the first section backwards, so a lot of climbing. I srint out, and stay in top 7, but, I never see Toby, apparently he flatted within the first 200 meters of the race. As soon as we hit the creek beds, we have pile ups, I figure I am going to work on my cycle cross skills. This actually worked out well, since I hardly ever get to practice riding in the mud. There were 9 or so women who started the race, and only 3 were able to finish. See, in the Marathon races they have a cut off lap, so if you don't make it, you get pulled.

Jan. 5th Excruciation Exam, "Torture Test"
1st Place, Open Women

This was a tough race. This was a La mans start, where you set your bike down and run a loop back to your bike then, into the trail at Warda for a lap. I had a descent start, there were soo many people , I got back to my bike and had to hit hard to get up towards the front. We get into the woods, a bit hard to pass people, I was behind Nathan Winklemen who was on a cross bike, I was able to get around still in the top 5 I would say, though, I could see the fast roadie guys coming hard behind me when we hit the field, I stayed in front as we go down the descent , and then Eric Hess comes around and Sol Frost, I start to fade a bit before the end of the lap, but, know I have to go hard to get back up to the front for the road ride portion. I wasn't feeling so great, as I felt like i had too much in my stomach.. So, I hit hard on the road, finally catch up to the group, and Bennett Brown lets out Gas! yes he FArted. I was trying not puke.. but, couldn't help it, and end up puking! No Worries, I simply go around and I am In. Until we hit the first check point, where you have to get your map signed. Well, my guy was a bit slow, as I finally get my paper back and into my jersey, everyone is sprinting off. I am left with Eric Hess and we work towards the pack. At one point I am looking down going 25mph on my mtb in the wind!! I couldn't maintain this, and Eric slowly walks away from me. I am thinking this is just great. I am left on the road , fortunately were about 10 miles to Smithville where we ride trail. I finally arrive, and fuel up, and am told the guys are about 30 sec. in front of me. Cool. Though, the trail had been rated by cows, so some of the ribbons were down. So, I come to an intersection and dont know where to go, so I go left, and ended up being the wrong way, so, I turn back to the point I made the left turn, go right and back on track. So, for most of the trail I wasn't sure if I was headed in the right direction. I finally run into old team mate, Cody Baron, and I am releived. We rode together for awhile and I came around on the climbs, and started feeling great. Back to the road, and ride up to Tristen Uhl and Bennet Brown, I dont think they were really wanting to go hard, so when we came upon another rider, we ended up dropping the boys. Back to Warda for a bit of trail left. I ended up seeing Toby .. OOOHHH I got a bit excited, If I only knew he was right there..hehe.... I finished without a sprint. It feels to get that race off the schedule. Not as hard as I remembered , pretty happy about my time. I think it was around 87 miles ?

Miles Of Discomfort~ Jan. 26th

Another technical race.... I had a horrible Start. They started the Open Women behind All of the Marathoners. and it was a Mass Start. So, they start the race, and there is a pile up before the first corner. So, I am going along the side of the climb, just simply trying to get around. And again, another pile up, as we hit the first technical section.. This was horrible, I couldn't get around, there were people running there bikes around the trail .. As we finally get rolling. I am in recovery Zone.. Thinking.. Are we racing or What??? That morning, I woke up in the middle of the night with Hives and wasn't sure what was wrong.. Of course, I started the race and forgot all about them. But, thought something was wrong.. Since, I was going sooo Slow.. I would try to get around, by riding off the trail, onto the rough terrain. But, NOOOO the guys would speed up so I couldn't get around. My derailleur hangar ends up getting hit and now my gears are skipping in the back. This was going to be a tough race, I was just thinking.. that I am going to get passed by the girls. at this rate. Well, never got passed by a girl, but things starting to turn around, as I finally stop to pull my derailler hangar straight. Okay, things are going good. and I start to turn it on.. Then, all of a sudden I am off my bike. I had a bad crash.. nothing technical, but My foot must have hit a rock, and me and my bike came flying off the trail. I get up and notice my computer on the ground, I try to pick it up and I could hardly close my fingers. I think I may have broken my hand, oh it hurt so bad. Well, I get back on and way I go. This was only the first half lap.. Though, after all of this, I start to race well . and have a strong finish. But, I was not happy with my time. (same time as last year) Should have been 15 min. faster.

Get Your Massage!!!

Went to see Rudy yesteday. AAHHHH!!! I haven't had a massage in a few weeks.. *note to self, not to do that again..
Great Training is Useless Without a Proper Massage.
Rudy at the Finish Line, One of the Teams Sponsors and a Sponsor for me on the Dirt too. So, I can continue to race week after week. He is really good. They do offer Swedish masssages for those that do not need a deep tissue massage. But, he is really good. Located off of 635 and Hillcrest in Dallas 972-503-1110