Rain, Rain, Rain, Rain. Um, that was the weather leading up to Lehigh Valley Cross at the velodrome. How about race day, you ask? More rain varying from drizzle to downpour at times. The course turned into the most beautiful mess.
As a result, half of the technical areas were completely and utterly unrideable, so I wasn't able to take as much advantage of these areas as I like, but I still had a great ride. My start placed me mid-pack as usual. I should have started harder, for I got caught in a ton of less-skilled and less-aggressive traffic running through the slippery stuff. The rest of the race was spent bridging up to groups and picking through them. The best part was when I bridged up to a group of four right before a set of four switchback turns on a baseball infield. I passed three of the four guys in these corners, one on each of the first three!
Most of the time I was even able to put a respectable amount of power down on the soggy straights, which made me ecstatic! One guy did pass me on a power section right before a corkscrew downhill, he took a poor line, hit the brakes and turned, and I blasted straight down on the propper line, guiding my handlebars and forearms into and past his thigh. Sorry man, take a better line next time; rubbin' is racin'. I did not see him again.
After eating through most of the field, and finally getting the 6th place guy out of reach behind me (this took a lot of effort), I had the fourth place guy (nicknamed Woody?) just out of reach. Instead of sitting up, I continued on my tear, figuring that if he made a mistake on the last lap, I had a good chance of catching him. Plus, keeping the hurt on would be good training for future races. He made no mistake, but the announcer still thought that there would be a battle for fourth. Though I had got to within 25 feet of the guy, the announcer was wrong. On that course, 25 feet was a long ways to go. Woody had felt the pressure but did not make a mistake and stayed just out of reach for me to contest the position. We congratulated each other on our efforts after the finish line.
Fantastic race! So much fun! Finally, some mud. Good physical racing. Action all the way 'till the last lap. Good times with alumnus Jay and regional 'cross regulars. Coming home with some good schwag on an extended podium. What a great day!
I am going to have to figure out how to start a bit harder without putting too much hurt in my legs. Oh well, there should be a few more opportunities to learn this before nationals.
Monday, October 29, 2007
Monday, October 22, 2007
Granogue Report#2 - The C-men heros!
I'd like to elaborate a touch on Don's post... I am flattered by your compliments, but I have to give my 'tip-o'-the-hat' to C-men Dave and Rich! I blasted corners well and 'sploded up the short steep climbs, but didn't exceptionally turn myself inside out or overcome a typical weakness.
Raise your glasses to Rich and Dave. A quick glance would reveal that Rich was especially deep into the pain cave, and his effort was rewarded with an impressive placing. Rich hit the ground more than once, but rapidly tugged his shifters back into place and continued tearing grass up by root to propel himself towards the finish line. Every time that I saw the ever-smiling Dave, he was chasing with determination after the nearest competitor's wheel. He refused let a cyclist out of sight, unless the competitor was disappearing in his wake.
These two racers exemplify the determination we'd like to see in all our team members. They did something special this last Saturday, and I hope to be inspired by them for the rest of this season. Maybe then, I'll accomplish something exceptional and accept the title of "big story of the day." This weekend I respectfully decline Don's accolades to congratulate our amazing C-racers, and fortunately, the future of Rutgers cycling.
Raise your glasses to Rich and Dave. A quick glance would reveal that Rich was especially deep into the pain cave, and his effort was rewarded with an impressive placing. Rich hit the ground more than once, but rapidly tugged his shifters back into place and continued tearing grass up by root to propel himself towards the finish line. Every time that I saw the ever-smiling Dave, he was chasing with determination after the nearest competitor's wheel. He refused let a cyclist out of sight, unless the competitor was disappearing in his wake.
These two racers exemplify the determination we'd like to see in all our team members. They did something special this last Saturday, and I hope to be inspired by them for the rest of this season. Maybe then, I'll accomplish something exceptional and accept the title of "big story of the day." This weekend I respectfully decline Don's accolades to congratulate our amazing C-racers, and fortunately, the future of Rutgers cycling.
Brief Granogue B report
I love Granogue. I LOVE Granogue. I had a huge smile plastered on my face all of Saturday, with the exception of the "oh boy this hurts" look during the race itself.
It is important to start near the front. Not terribly important, mind you, as our very own Mark was able to blast through two rows of Killer B's to take the holeshot, no small feat in such a competitive field. Charlie started more steadily from the 3rd row, while HighlandParkJenks and I had to start waaaay back and got caught behind a half-dozen pileups.
Mark's early efforts were soon replaced by less-than-stellar sensations in his legs, but he hung on admirably for the rest of the race. When HP Jenks stormed by me like I was standing still halfway through the first lap, it served as a convenient wakeup call, and I started moving my way through the field.
Throughout the whole race, we could hear the cheers of our enthusiastic supporters, including AlumniTed, SoigneurHeidi, and C-racers DK and The Kassassin. Every "Go Don" served to boost my power by at least 600 watts, according to my finely-calibrated internal powermeter, and I think I speak for all the B racers when I thank everyone who cheered for us.
The big story of the day, in my book at least, had to be Captain Chaz, who "couldn't pedal powerfully after the runup". Despite this tragic 10sec/lap limitation, Chaz drove his bike to a brilliant top 15 (or so) finish.
All in all, I give the Saturday at Granogue a 17 out of 5. It is my favorite course, the atmosphere is warmer and more inviting than any other similarly-sized race, the weather cooperated, the organizers did a fantastic job, and everyone had a blast. As always, Granogue was more fun than a barrel of monkeys.
It is important to start near the front. Not terribly important, mind you, as our very own Mark was able to blast through two rows of Killer B's to take the holeshot, no small feat in such a competitive field. Charlie started more steadily from the 3rd row, while HighlandParkJenks and I had to start waaaay back and got caught behind a half-dozen pileups.
Mark's early efforts were soon replaced by less-than-stellar sensations in his legs, but he hung on admirably for the rest of the race. When HP Jenks stormed by me like I was standing still halfway through the first lap, it served as a convenient wakeup call, and I started moving my way through the field.
Throughout the whole race, we could hear the cheers of our enthusiastic supporters, including AlumniTed, SoigneurHeidi, and C-racers DK and The Kassassin. Every "Go Don" served to boost my power by at least 600 watts, according to my finely-calibrated internal powermeter, and I think I speak for all the B racers when I thank everyone who cheered for us.
The big story of the day, in my book at least, had to be Captain Chaz, who "couldn't pedal powerfully after the runup". Despite this tragic 10sec/lap limitation, Chaz drove his bike to a brilliant top 15 (or so) finish.
All in all, I give the Saturday at Granogue a 17 out of 5. It is my favorite course, the atmosphere is warmer and more inviting than any other similarly-sized race, the weather cooperated, the organizers did a fantastic job, and everyone had a blast. As always, Granogue was more fun than a barrel of monkeys.
Monday, October 08, 2007
Westwood Velo Cross report
With the team split between Long Island and North Jersey, the Rutgers Team didn't have the massive numbers of racers we're used to at the Westwood Velo race... however, with 7 Rutgers racers (Joe, Dave, Andy, Blake, Jay, Will, and Don) plus some alumni (Ted and Matt) and associates (the victorious ProfessorRalf and also-victorious Jim), we definitely made our presence known.
DK is ready to go
Jay got the holeshot in the C race.
"I prefer to start slow" said Jay last year
He then proceeded to open a huge gap. Huge. To explain how huge this gap was: When Jay flatted about halfway through the first lap, he ran about 400m before being caught. Unfortunately, he had no pit wheel, so Don ran to the car to get him a spare. By the time Don reached the pit, Jay was well behind the race. Rather than help Jay change wheels, Don photographed him.
Don is a terrible friend
With the exception of Andy and Blake, every one racing the C race in a Rutgers kit got a flat. Jay rode Don's wheel to avoid a DNF, Will and Dave pulled the plug, and Freshman Joe fought a slow-leak all the way to the finish. Joe and Jay finished 24th and 25th, respectively.
Joe dug deep in his 2nd-ever bike race
Andy and Blake pushed each other to the finish, trading positions at least twice in the last two laps as far as I could see. They finished in 12th and 13th, respectively, with young-gun Andy putting 30 sec into nearly-graduated Blake by the end.
Andy was the top Rutgers finisher in the C race
In the B race, Rutgers had a good start once again, with Don riding 3rd and Jay and Will close behind. Will took himself out in what was reportedly a spectacular yard-sale over the "natural barriers". Unfortunately, the crash was not captured on camera.
Don runs the just-barely-unrideable logs
that took Will out of the race
Jay eventually pulled the plug on his own race. It seems that it is pretty tough to train once a week, then race twice in one day. Don dug deep for the remainder of the race, but gave up a couple of spots in the last two laps as the heat and the pace got to him. Jay and Will, sitting in the shade at one of the tougher sections of the course, "encouraged" him to stop being a wimp. He finished 7th.
Don fought hard but faded towards the end
Professor Ralf won the very-competitive Masters 35+ race. Congratulations!
With better and better results every week, experience gained, and the big numbers one would expect from the defending ECCC 'cross champions, the Rutgers Cycling team is looking forward to some fantastic races through the rest of the season. Stay tuned for more results, stories, and exciting action shots!
Jay got the holeshot in the C race.
He then proceeded to open a huge gap. Huge. To explain how huge this gap was: When Jay flatted about halfway through the first lap, he ran about 400m before being caught. Unfortunately, he had no pit wheel, so Don ran to the car to get him a spare. By the time Don reached the pit, Jay was well behind the race. Rather than help Jay change wheels, Don photographed him.
With the exception of Andy and Blake, every one racing the C race in a Rutgers kit got a flat. Jay rode Don's wheel to avoid a DNF, Will and Dave pulled the plug, and Freshman Joe fought a slow-leak all the way to the finish. Joe and Jay finished 24th and 25th, respectively.
Andy and Blake pushed each other to the finish, trading positions at least twice in the last two laps as far as I could see. They finished in 12th and 13th, respectively, with young-gun Andy putting 30 sec into nearly-graduated Blake by the end.
In the B race, Rutgers had a good start once again, with Don riding 3rd and Jay and Will close behind. Will took himself out in what was reportedly a spectacular yard-sale over the "natural barriers". Unfortunately, the crash was not captured on camera.
that took Will out of the race
Jay eventually pulled the plug on his own race. It seems that it is pretty tough to train once a week, then race twice in one day. Don dug deep for the remainder of the race, but gave up a couple of spots in the last two laps as the heat and the pace got to him. Jay and Will, sitting in the shade at one of the tougher sections of the course, "encouraged" him to stop being a wimp. He finished 7th.
Professor Ralf won the very-competitive Masters 35+ race. Congratulations!
With better and better results every week, experience gained, and the big numbers one would expect from the defending ECCC 'cross champions, the Rutgers Cycling team is looking forward to some fantastic races through the rest of the season. Stay tuned for more results, stories, and exciting action shots!
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Oh, it's cyclocross season
We headed down to South Jersey for a little cyclocross action today at the Hillbilly Hustle .2. As always, it seems, we had a big crew with The Jenksster, FarmerAndy, Craig., Todd, Pluto, The Kassassin, NinjaDon, Dave, Freshman Joe, Matt P. and Me (and Noah too!).
I'm always super psyched to watch the C race when we have oodles of teammates in it. We had six. To the surprise of no one who saw his ride on Wednesday, Todd (RU Cycling Alum) rode away from the field to take the win. It was sweet! It's also his first win ever . That's awesome. The Rutgers boys were in full effect. At one point, we had 4th-6th - all Rutgers guys. FarmerAndy is clearly in good fitness after his cross country bike ride this summer and was positioned for third until a mechanical and a crash knocked him back. I'm not entirely sure where everyone ended up in the Cs. Rich finished strong after suffering a flat at an entirely inopportune part of the course
Big props to Joe in his first ever cyclocross race! He looked fantastic out there!
In the Bs, Jenks, Craig, Don, Will P (cuz he can't get enough from just one race), and I toed the line. Despite the course suiting neither of us, Jenks and I both had solid races with me spending most of the race in 3rd to 5th until I fell apart in the last two laps to finish 7th and Mike coming back from 3 crashes to finish 11th. Craig's bike didn't hold together and Will DNF'd, but Don put in a solid ride despite a lingering cold to finish in the 20s.
With my ride today, I think (if my math is correct) I took over the lead in the NJ Cross Cup. Cool.
The biggest congratulations go out to Todd for putting out an amazing ride today and bringing home the win! Well Done!!!!
I'm always super psyched to watch the C race when we have oodles of teammates in it. We had six. To the surprise of no one who saw his ride on Wednesday, Todd (RU Cycling Alum) rode away from the field to take the win. It was sweet! It's also his first win ever . That's awesome. The Rutgers boys were in full effect. At one point, we had 4th-6th - all Rutgers guys. FarmerAndy is clearly in good fitness after his cross country bike ride this summer and was positioned for third until a mechanical and a crash knocked him back. I'm not entirely sure where everyone ended up in the Cs. Rich finished strong after suffering a flat at an entirely inopportune part of the course
Big props to Joe in his first ever cyclocross race! He looked fantastic out there!
In the Bs, Jenks, Craig, Don, Will P (cuz he can't get enough from just one race), and I toed the line. Despite the course suiting neither of us, Jenks and I both had solid races with me spending most of the race in 3rd to 5th until I fell apart in the last two laps to finish 7th and Mike coming back from 3 crashes to finish 11th. Craig's bike didn't hold together and Will DNF'd, but Don put in a solid ride despite a lingering cold to finish in the 20s.
With my ride today, I think (if my math is correct) I took over the lead in the NJ Cross Cup. Cool.
The biggest congratulations go out to Todd for putting out an amazing ride today and bringing home the win! Well Done!!!!
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Rudy Project to Supply Helmets and Eyewear to Rutgers Cycling
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Rutgers Cycling is proud to announce that Rudy Project will be the official supplier of helmets and eyewear to the team for the next two seasons.
Rudy Project sunglasses have long been the choice of Rutgers riders. Here, AngryMark is sporting a pair of Rudy Ekynox sunglasses at the Westwood Velo Cyclocross RaceRudy Project makes some of the finest looking and performing sunglasses and helmets in its Italian factory.
Long before Rudy Project partnered up with Rutgers Cycling, Rudy Project sunglasses were the choice of many Rutgers Cycling riders, and we are excited to have a two-year relationship with Rudy that will enable the entire team to ride and race stylishly and safely.
Blake, too, sports a pair of Rudy Rydons at Baystate Cyclocross.
Blake, too, sports a pair of Rudy Rydons at Baystate Cyclocross.Rudy Project joins a long list of supporters for the 2007-08 season including: Efinger Sporting Goods, Accelerade/Endurox Nutrition Products, Specialized Bicycles, Ritchey Components, Cycle-Smart Coaching, Maul Electric, Inc., The Schwartz Family, and Verge Sport.
Please support those who support Rutgers Cycling!
Monday, September 10, 2007
Specialized and Ritchey Sign on with Rutgers Cycling!
Rutgers Cycling is pleased to announce that Specialized will be the team bike and frame sponsor for both the 2007-08 and 2008-09 seasons. With this two-year sponsorship, Rutgers riders will be riding some of the finest carbon fiber road and mountain bikes available.
Some of the team were lucky enough to ride the 2008 Specialized line at a Specialized Demo Day sponsored by Efinger Sporting Goods and left with their jaws on the floor after riding the Tarmac SL2 and S-Works Tricross.
In addition to bringing on board a bicycle sponsor, Rutgers Cycling is also very excited to announce a component sponsorship with Ritchey! Ritchey makes some of the finest handlebars, stems, seatposts, and wheels available (and has for over 20 years). Rutgers Cycling is very excited to be riding such high quality equipment for the 2007-2008 season.
Some of the team were lucky enough to ride the 2008 Specialized line at a Specialized Demo Day sponsored by Efinger Sporting Goods and left with their jaws on the floor after riding the Tarmac SL2 and S-Works Tricross.
In addition to bringing on board a bicycle sponsor, Rutgers Cycling is also very excited to announce a component sponsorship with Ritchey! Ritchey makes some of the finest handlebars, stems, seatposts, and wheels available (and has for over 20 years). Rutgers Cycling is very excited to be riding such high quality equipment for the 2007-2008 season.
Friday, September 07, 2007
So You Want to Join Rutgers Cycling
We had our first team meeting on Wednesday. Approximately 20% of the Western Hemisphere was in attendance. There were more new riders than returning riders... and our team was already bigger than ever.
Will, attempting to photograph the meeting, failed. He later said, "I’ll need to get a fish eye lens if the team gets to be this big". Here is his best effort to get everyone in the same shot:
Still, I feel that I should inform all of my new teammates that you're in for more than you may realize.
I understand why you joined the team. Who can blame you? There is an undeniable glamor in associating with Rutgers Cycling.
And who doesn't like winning?
As a team member, you'll travel throughout the Eastern Collegiate Cycling Conference, seeing sights that you don't ever get to see in Central Jersey.
Most importantly, you'll be part of a well-oiled machine, a veritable juggernaut of teamwork and go-fast-itude.
However, I simply must warn you that beneath this sexy scarlet spandex surface lies a murky history of hard-work and suffering and also more spandex.
First of all, I hope you like mud. I don't mean "oops, I got some road grime on my white shoe-covers" mud. I mean mud.
You'll find that 90% of going fast is training (the other 10% is coordinating your jersey, shorts, handlebar tape, and cable caps). And training means staring at your friends' derrières for hours at a time. For example, Jenks' booty.
However, recovery is the most important part of training and racing. The best way to recover is to sleep. Sleep whenever you can. Sleep, but know that you're running the risk of amusing your teammates, and therefore the entire blogosphere.
Once you're old enough, you'll be able to participate in our weekly Karaoke excursions. I just hope you'll have enough style to keep up.
In fact, style will be an important part of your life as a Rutgers Cyclist.
You'll need style in your post-race street-clothes...
...almost as much as you'll need to be stylish in your uniform.
Welcome to the team.
Will, attempting to photograph the meeting, failed. He later said, "I’ll need to get a fish eye lens if the team gets to be this big". Here is his best effort to get everyone in the same shot:
Still, I feel that I should inform all of my new teammates that you're in for more than you may realize.
I understand why you joined the team. Who can blame you? There is an undeniable glamor in associating with Rutgers Cycling.
And who doesn't like winning?
As a team member, you'll travel throughout the Eastern Collegiate Cycling Conference, seeing sights that you don't ever get to see in Central Jersey.
Most importantly, you'll be part of a well-oiled machine, a veritable juggernaut of teamwork and go-fast-itude.
However, I simply must warn you that beneath this sexy scarlet spandex surface lies a murky history of hard-work and suffering and also more spandex.
First of all, I hope you like mud. I don't mean "oops, I got some road grime on my white shoe-covers" mud. I mean mud.
You'll find that 90% of going fast is training (the other 10% is coordinating your jersey, shorts, handlebar tape, and cable caps). And training means staring at your friends' derrières for hours at a time. For example, Jenks' booty.
However, recovery is the most important part of training and racing. The best way to recover is to sleep. Sleep whenever you can. Sleep, but know that you're running the risk of amusing your teammates, and therefore the entire blogosphere.
Once you're old enough, you'll be able to participate in our weekly Karaoke excursions. I just hope you'll have enough style to keep up.
In fact, style will be an important part of your life as a Rutgers Cyclist.
You'll need style in your post-race street-clothes...
...almost as much as you'll need to be stylish in your uniform.
Welcome to the team.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
1st Cross Practice
For almost everyone, tonight was the first cyclocross practice of the year. Will, Harold, and I took photos. The following are but a small fraction of the awesomeness captured by our cameras. Enjoy!
Will P rode in sandals
Dave poses for his publicity photos
Alumnus Ted rode like a man possessed
The barriers were a popular place to photograph
AngryMark... 'nuff said
The 2007-08 Team Uniform!
Our friends at Verge Sport just sent us a proof of the 2007-08 Rutgers Cycling uniforms.
They look awesome!
They look awesome!
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
24 hours of Allamuchy - Results!
The following images were captured and are for sale by www.imageextreme.com Thanks for camping out in the woods and capturing these shots.OK, OK, OK,
24-O'Muchy is over, and, for the most part, I'd guess that our team is back to physiological equilibrium. Our first laps... HOT! Like, heat advisory HOT! Still, we churned some great laps. CaptainChaz finishing lap 1 at right. Soaked, absolutely soaked in sweat. Then Jim, from the Highland Park Hermes, stepped up and ripped a great lap, followed by Mike Phelan, loving the 29'er and claiming that he could ride over anything.
Jay lays down a fourth fast lap for our team, demonstrating the depth that our team has. Others brought a superstar and some riff-raff, but we clearly brought an all-star cast. Then, it was back to Charlie and Jim. Mike Phelan took the first night lap followed by King-of-the-Night, Jay Nossen! Jay and Mike's night laps were so unexpectedly fast, that Charlie missed Jay at the transition and Jay went out for a second 10.5 mile lap in a row, without support, and during a thunderstorm! The speed of these two in the dark can only be attributed to the miles that they log on Tuesday nights in either the Chimney Rock or Six Mile Run trail systems. Charlie then took his first night ride ever in mud, standing water, and really slippery rocks and roots as his brake pads wore down to nearly nothing. The result?... yup, somehow, another fast lap. Things were looking good for team Hermutgers, but our chance at first place had slipped away and we focused on remaining consistent and ensuring second place. Jim and Mike finished off the night, keeping us well ahead of Team Tiger.The Sun came up, and Jay hopped back onto the course with great energy (It must be the Accellerade working its magic). Charlie and Jim finished off the morning with two more laps to ensure second place in our age bracket. Here is the breakdown:
Place: 2 Team: 403 HERMERUTGERS
Rider Leave Arrive LapTime
Charlie 00:00 01:11 01:11
Jim 01:12 02:28 01:16
Mike 02:28 03:47 01:19
Jay 03:47 05:09 01:22
Charlie 05:09 06:21 01:12
Jim 06:21 07:45 01:24
Mike 07:45 09:20 01:35
Jay 09:20 10:51 01:31
Jay 11:02 12:59 01:57
Charlie 12:59 14:34 01:35
Jim 14:34 16:34 02:00
Mike 16:35 18:45 02:10
Jay 18:53 20:53 02:00
Charlie 20:53 22:25 01:32
Jim 22:25 24:14 01:49
Our lap times were good enough, that of the 35 four-man teams competing, we finished 3rd overall! So, after Mike and Jay took off, Jim and Charlie collected the hardware: eight plaques for our 2nd place finish in our age bracket and, more importantly, third overall! We are hoping to return to Allamuchy next year with a bit more experience and training and take the 4-man title!
Sunday, August 26, 2007
24 Hours of Allamuchy, midnight report
I had the chance to spend a few hours as a soigneur for the combined Rutgers and Hermes (aka, Hermutgers) team at the 24 Hours of Allamuchy mountainbike race. Charlie, Jim, Mike, and Jay formed a 4-man relay team with enough experience and fitness to have a shot at the win.
Charlie finishes his 2nd lap
Charlie rode the first lap, starting at noon, followed by Jim, then Mike, then Jay. It was hot and humid, but Team Hermutgers set a strong pace.
Jim is at home on knobby tires
As of 10pm, the guys had ridden a total of 7 laps, and Jay was well into the 8th. Helmet- or handlebar-mounted lights had been mandatory since 6pm. Speaking as a roadie who shies away from the idea of night-riding, I would describe nighttime in the Allamuchy woods as dark. Like, really dark. Like, I-can't-see-my-front-wheel dark.
Mike, in the old-skool Rutgers jersey, relied heavily on the headlamp during his 2nd lap
Fortunately for Team Hermutgers, Miss O and Miss C have volunteered to spend the entirety of the race supporting the team. Braving mud, mosquitos, and sleep deprivation, these ladies are keeping our racers hydrated, well-fed, and sane.
Miss C and Miss O, soigneurs extraordinaire
When I last checked, Hermutgers were in 2nd place, trailing last year's victors by just a few minutes each lap. However, with thunderstorms rolling in, it seems possible that the world-renowned handling skills of Charlie, Jim, Mike, and Jay might allow a midnight comeback.
The forecast says rain, and the doctor says pain
It's the witching hour now, that ultra-dark, quiet period between midnight and dawn that will really test the riders' mettle. Our racers' strategy seems to be eating solid food, showering off the mud, and getting as much sleep as possible. Here, Charlie demonstrates the food and mud aspects of 24 hour racing.
Jay does some wrenching in the dark
Alumnus Ted was in attendance, repping Van Dessel and cheering Hermutgers
Once our racers have recuperated, I'm sure there will be a race report posted to the blog in the near future. Can Team Hermutgers pull off the win? Stay tuned!
Charlie rode the first lap, starting at noon, followed by Jim, then Mike, then Jay. It was hot and humid, but Team Hermutgers set a strong pace.
As of 10pm, the guys had ridden a total of 7 laps, and Jay was well into the 8th. Helmet- or handlebar-mounted lights had been mandatory since 6pm. Speaking as a roadie who shies away from the idea of night-riding, I would describe nighttime in the Allamuchy woods as dark. Like, really dark. Like, I-can't-see-my-front-wheel dark.
When I last checked, Hermutgers were in 2nd place, trailing last year's victors by just a few minutes each lap. However, with thunderstorms rolling in, it seems possible that the world-renowned handling skills of Charlie, Jim, Mike, and Jay might allow a midnight comeback.
It's the witching hour now, that ultra-dark, quiet period between midnight and dawn that will really test the riders' mettle. Our racers' strategy seems to be eating solid food, showering off the mud, and getting as much sleep as possible. Here, Charlie demonstrates the food and mud aspects of 24 hour racing.
Once our racers have recuperated, I'm sure there will be a race report posted to the blog in the near future. Can Team Hermutgers pull off the win? Stay tuned!
Friday, August 24, 2007
Support Rutgers Cycling
Some of you may have seen the article in today's New York Times about the ways in which some collegiate teams are forced to fund themselves.
Odd Jobs Help Collegiate Teams Stay Afloat
Rutgers Cycling, like many of the teams featured in the article, relies heavily on fundraising to supply its budget. While the University does offer some funding to the team, it is less than 10% of what it costs to run a cycling team that competes 10 months out of the year in over 100 events nationally.
This year, Rutgers Cycling has committed to supporting its racers even more than previous years in both funding and equipment. We can only do this with your support.
Contact Rutgers Cycling at Sponsorship@rutgerscycling.com to find out how you can support collegiate cycling at Rutgers.
Odd Jobs Help Collegiate Teams Stay Afloat
Rutgers Cycling, like many of the teams featured in the article, relies heavily on fundraising to supply its budget. While the University does offer some funding to the team, it is less than 10% of what it costs to run a cycling team that competes 10 months out of the year in over 100 events nationally.
This year, Rutgers Cycling has committed to supporting its racers even more than previous years in both funding and equipment. We can only do this with your support.
Contact Rutgers Cycling at Sponsorship@rutgerscycling.com to find out how you can support collegiate cycling at Rutgers.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Rutgers Cycling Announces 2007-08 Sponsors!
Riding on the tide of a highly successful 2006-07 racing season, Rutgers Cycling is proud to announce new and returning sponsors who will be supporting the team this year.
Returning from last year is Dayton, NJ - based Maul Electric, Inc., commercial and industrial electric specialists.
Also returning as shop sponsor is Efinger Sporting Goods based in Bound Brook, NJ. Efinger Sporting Goods is a full service sporting goods store with a fantastic pro-level bike shop!
Returning for their third year as nutrition sponsor is Pacific Health Labs, Inc. makers of Accelerade and Endurox.
Cycle-Smart continues its coaching relationship with Rutgers Cycling for a third year as well. Cycle-Smart offers personalized coaching to guide you through the unknowns of training and recovery for road, cyclo-cross, track racing, or mountain biking.
Verge Sport is once again the official supplier of Rutgers Cycling uniforms.
We're also very proud to announce a new sponsor for the 07-08 season. Rutgers Cycling's own Noah Schwartz has made a generous donation to the team in honor of his son Joachim. Look for Joachim's name on the team's jerseys this year!
In the coming weeks, Rutgers Cycling will be choosing a road bike sponsor for the season. Keep posted to learn what the team will be riding this spring!
Returning from last year is Dayton, NJ - based Maul Electric, Inc., commercial and industrial electric specialists.
Also returning as shop sponsor is Efinger Sporting Goods based in Bound Brook, NJ. Efinger Sporting Goods is a full service sporting goods store with a fantastic pro-level bike shop!
Returning for their third year as nutrition sponsor is Pacific Health Labs, Inc. makers of Accelerade and Endurox.
Cycle-Smart continues its coaching relationship with Rutgers Cycling for a third year as well. Cycle-Smart offers personalized coaching to guide you through the unknowns of training and recovery for road, cyclo-cross, track racing, or mountain biking.
Verge Sport is once again the official supplier of Rutgers Cycling uniforms.
We're also very proud to announce a new sponsor for the 07-08 season. Rutgers Cycling's own Noah Schwartz has made a generous donation to the team in honor of his son Joachim. Look for Joachim's name on the team's jerseys this year!
In the coming weeks, Rutgers Cycling will be choosing a road bike sponsor for the season. Keep posted to learn what the team will be riding this spring!
Friday, August 17, 2007
Rutgers Cycling Alumni Tackle the TransRockies!
Check it out! Rutgers Cycling alumni Ben Ollett and Simon Koster are racing in the TransRockies Challenge.
Velonews did a profile of Ben and Simon today:
A Day in the Life of a TransRockies Team
Go Ben! Go Simon!
Velonews did a profile of Ben and Simon today:
A Day in the Life of a TransRockies Team
Go Ben! Go Simon!
Thursday, August 02, 2007
Charlie's Cyclocross Loop... a preview
With cyclocross season approaching fast, Charlie has mapped out a new road loop designed to give us a 'cross emulation workout.
Camera in hand, I prerode the route, although I'll admit I messed up the final climb by turning too late on King George. Sorry, Chaz.
So here it is, kids. A scouting report of Charlie's 'Cross Loop:
Warmup will be on River Rd, just like every ride ever
We'll do a little stretch in the park in Bound Brook, then warm up on Mountain Ave.
Once we've 'crossed 22, the fireworks will start almost immediately. Washington Rd goes up. For serious.
Once you get to the top, make a left onto Hillcrest. It's slightly downhill, definitely not a place to relax. Put it in the big ring and pedal.
You'll hit a T interesection with Vosseller Ave. Make a right and climb for about 15 seconds, then build up some speed on the descent and hang on for dear life. It's a straight shot and should be very fast.
What goes down will eventually go up. The grade will go from false-flat to grind pretty quickly. The faster you descended, the easier the climb will be.
Right turn onto Washington Valley Rd. This is a relatively high-traffic road, so hug the shoulder and remember to go fast.
After a short descent, you'll make a hard left onto Dock Watch Hollow. Be super-careful, this is busy and there're piles of sand, and you'll be coming into the turn fast.
Drive it over the little bumps until you get to Mt. Horeb Rd. You're crossing a busy road. Respect the stop sign.
As soon as you cross Mt. Horeb, you'll go up. Don't be intimidated, it's steep but it's short.
The descent is long and shallow. Don't relax. This is a 'cross practice, you'd better be pedaling. At the end, make a right turn onto Mountainview Rd.
Mountainview Rd rolls. Charge up the hills and keep that momentum building in between.
Before the traffic light, make a right onto King George Rd.
King George starts with a long pedal-able descent, but you'll need to stop again when you cross Mt. Horeb.
After a fun, fast descent, you'll come to a traffic light at Washington Valley Road. This will be a big pain in the butt, and it might cost the leader his gap over the chasers. Still, when on a Rutgers ride, obey the laws.
You'll have one last climb, a not-too-steep bit up King George. What's cool about this climb is that it's sort of 'crossy... the road is so chewed up that you have to choose your line wisely and practice good form when climbing out of the saddle.
Just before the end of the climb, you'll make a right onto Hillcrest Rd. If you hit a T intersection, you've gone too far.
This part of Hillcrest has a bunch of rollers. Don't be distracted by the view of the Raritan Valley, and don't slack off. This is the last place where chasers can make up ground.
Finish at the intersection with Washington Rd. Phew.
So, to recap:
The climbs... Washington, Vosseller, Dock Watch Hollow, and King George.
The hazards... Left onto Dock Watch Hollow, crossing Mt. Horeb, crossing Mt. Horeb again, and crossing Washington Rd.
Oh, and the wildlife.
Camera in hand, I prerode the route, although I'll admit I messed up the final climb by turning too late on King George. Sorry, Chaz.
So here it is, kids. A scouting report of Charlie's 'Cross Loop:
Warmup will be on River Rd, just like every ride ever
We'll do a little stretch in the park in Bound Brook, then warm up on Mountain Ave.
Once we've 'crossed 22, the fireworks will start almost immediately. Washington Rd goes up. For serious.
Once you get to the top, make a left onto Hillcrest. It's slightly downhill, definitely not a place to relax. Put it in the big ring and pedal.
You'll hit a T interesection with Vosseller Ave. Make a right and climb for about 15 seconds, then build up some speed on the descent and hang on for dear life. It's a straight shot and should be very fast.
What goes down will eventually go up. The grade will go from false-flat to grind pretty quickly. The faster you descended, the easier the climb will be.
Right turn onto Washington Valley Rd. This is a relatively high-traffic road, so hug the shoulder and remember to go fast.
After a short descent, you'll make a hard left onto Dock Watch Hollow. Be super-careful, this is busy and there're piles of sand, and you'll be coming into the turn fast.
Drive it over the little bumps until you get to Mt. Horeb Rd. You're crossing a busy road. Respect the stop sign.
As soon as you cross Mt. Horeb, you'll go up. Don't be intimidated, it's steep but it's short.
The descent is long and shallow. Don't relax. This is a 'cross practice, you'd better be pedaling. At the end, make a right turn onto Mountainview Rd.
Mountainview Rd rolls. Charge up the hills and keep that momentum building in between.
Before the traffic light, make a right onto King George Rd.
King George starts with a long pedal-able descent, but you'll need to stop again when you cross Mt. Horeb.
After a fun, fast descent, you'll come to a traffic light at Washington Valley Road. This will be a big pain in the butt, and it might cost the leader his gap over the chasers. Still, when on a Rutgers ride, obey the laws.
You'll have one last climb, a not-too-steep bit up King George. What's cool about this climb is that it's sort of 'crossy... the road is so chewed up that you have to choose your line wisely and practice good form when climbing out of the saddle.
Just before the end of the climb, you'll make a right onto Hillcrest Rd. If you hit a T intersection, you've gone too far.
This part of Hillcrest has a bunch of rollers. Don't be distracted by the view of the Raritan Valley, and don't slack off. This is the last place where chasers can make up ground.
Finish at the intersection with Washington Rd. Phew.So, to recap:
The climbs... Washington, Vosseller, Dock Watch Hollow, and King George.
The hazards... Left onto Dock Watch Hollow, crossing Mt. Horeb, crossing Mt. Horeb again, and crossing Washington Rd.
Oh, and the wildlife.
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