WCA News

Midwest Cycling Series Dates and Executive Director Announced; Historic Downer Avenue Event Part of Series

MILWAUKEE, WI – December 3, 2008 – Jack Hirt, former executive director of the Bike Federation of Wisconsin (BFW), has been named Midwest Cycling Series Executive Director by founders of the new professional cycling series, which will showcase 10 Wisconsin cities in 11 days, June 18-28, 2009.

Midwest Cycling Series, LLC, organizers of the Midwest Cycling Series, comprises five avid cyclists and successful entrepreneurs including U.S. Cycling Team Olympian and Team Sports, Inc. President Tom Schuler, Olympic Road Race Trials qualifier and former Nova Cycle Sports Foundation President Bill Ochowicz, Milwaukee Junior Cycling Team co-Executive Director Bill Koch, National Senior Olympics competitor Jim Michler, and Paul Weaver, founder of one of Wisconsin's longest running multi-sport teams.

Says Schuler of Hirt's appointment, "Jack brings his competitive cycling experience as well as his business acumen and passion for making a difference in the cycling world and local communities. He is a proven leader who will work with me and my partners as well as local race directors and volunteer crews to catapult what began a couple years back as a successful 2-day series to the professionally-produced 10-day Midwest Cycling Series in 2009 featuring top purses in best-of-class venues."

Hirt recently stepped down from his role as BFW Executive Director to lead and manage a new statewide BFW advocacy initiative aimed at making Wisconsin the most bicycle-friendly state in the U.S. by working with officials at the local, regional and national levels to institute stronger bike-friendly laws and law enforcement.

"Jack has a stellar reputation of tirelessly promoting cycling and cyclist rights in the state," says Ochowicz. "He shares our goal of promoting cycling as a healthy and environmentally-friendly lifestyle, and with the new Midwest Cycling Series, the sport, athletes, host cities, sponsors and spectators all benefit…Jack will see to it; he gets the big picture."

Continues Ochowicz, "We will work with our host cities, athletes and sponsors to create fun, safe, family-friendly race days which will include a well-managed schedule of races across all categories, live entertainment and family activities."

The complete line-up of race cities, along with major sponsors, will be announced in early 2009; however, the historic Downer Avenue bike race in Milwaukee is a confirmed stop on the Midwest Cycling Series as are the Wisconsin cities of Fond du Lac, Manitowoc and Sheboygan.

Endorsed and supported by the Wisconsin Cycling Association and United States Cycling Federation, Midwest Cycling Series updates will be posted on www.midwestcyclingseries.com.

New Regional Team Forming; Riders Sought

The Colavita-Sutter Home Cycling Team is recruiting for a regional team based in Madison Wisconsin. Our sponsors are committed to promoting a healthy and active lifestyle. All categories and disciplines are welcome and encouraged to join. Our team is designed to offer support for those new to the sport as well as provide a path for those looking to ride at the professional level. We encourage team racing and commradary through our network of regional teams. You may also have the opportunity to have one of the professional team members stay at your house and you could be rewarded with a training ride from one of the top ranked teams in NRC, Colavita-Sutter Home. We offer great Pro Deals on bikes/frames, energy bars and other products with the possibility of clothing and race reimbursement for those who qualify. For more information please contact Matt Yeakey at madison1969@tds.net.

WCA Annual Meeting Notice - Save the Date

The annual meeting will be Sunday, January 18, 2009 at 1 p.m at the Delafield Brewhaus. Clubs are invited to send as many delegates to the meeting as they wish and any rider can send suggested agenda items. Traditionally, the annual meeting serves as time to elect the board of directors and discuss future intitiatives to strengthen WCA racing. Please send agenda suggestions to WCA Board President Gordy Paulson at gordo0106@hotmail.com.

Illinois Cyclocross Championships at Montrose Park

Your season does not have to end with the WI State Championships. Pack your bags and head south to the City of Chicago to compete in the Illinois Cyclocross Championships on Sunday, December 7. The race is hosted by Turin Bicycles. The Chicago Cyclocross Cup and riders welcome you with open arms.

This race will benefit the Greater Chicago Food Depository, so when you are packing throw in a few non-perishable goods to donate to the cause.

Flyer with information: http://www.chicrosscup.com/Montrose08.jpg

Bike Swap at UW-Milwaukee Union

Sunday December 14th
10am-3pm
UWM Union Ballroom 2nd floor
2200 Kenwood Blvd Milwaukee, WI
$5 entry donation, kids under 12 are free

The Bicycle Federation along with The Milwaukee Junior Cycling Team and UWM Cycling Club are hosting a bike swap at the UW-Milwaukee Union. The Milwaukee Junior Cycling Team is a program focused on diversifying bicycle racing by introducing high school youth to road racing. It is based out of Riverside University High School on Milwaukee's East Side and is one of the many programs the BFW supports in the Milwaukee area. All proceeds raised will go to help the BFW continue to make Wisconsin a better place to bicycle. Help us reach our goal of being the number one bicycle friendly state in the country!

The event is open to the public and everyone is encouraged to bring friends or family. It's a great chance to buy holiday gifts for the cycling enthusiast in your life and support a good cause! Individuals have the opportunity to buy table space at a rate of $40 per 8' table to sell their new or used bicycle parts, accessories, clothes, or complete bikes. Please contact Jake Newborn at jacob.newborn@bfw.org or 414-271-9685 to register or if you have any questions. Please register before December 8th.

18th Annual Cronometro Bike Swap

It’s time to mark your calendars: The Brazen Dropouts Bicycle Racing Team is getting ready to present the 18th annual Cronometro Bike Swap to be held once again at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison, WI, on Saturday, January 10, 2009.

The Bike Swap has evolved into one of the largest cycling-related swap meets in the country. It’s a fun event where you can buy and sell all sorts of bike stuff. Over the years, the Bike Swap has also become a great place to bump into friends and fellow cyclists. So grab that box of parts in your basement, the wheel set in your garage or that old bike collecting dust... rent a table, bring them to the Bike Swap and sell them. Looking for a 1976 Campagnolo Nuovo Record rear derailleur—you just might find it at the Bike Swap. Or maybe you want to find a great deal on some warm cycling clothing. Bikes, bike clothing, parts, accessories and much more can be found and are sold at the Bike Swap.

This year we are also excited to add a new feature to the Bike Swap: Guest speakers will give presentations on various bike related topics throughout the day in a special presentation room. Check our web site or the information board at the Bike Swap for the complete schedule of presentations. Head on over to http://www.brazendropouts.org and click on the link “Bike Swap 2009” for more information. You’ll find a Frequently Asked Questions section, and printable registration forms too. See you at the Bike Swap.

Fall Fundraiser for the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin a Success

On Friday October 17th, 2008, Saris Cycling Group held its fifth annual fundraiser to benefit the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin. A record $100,000 was raised for the Bike Fed this year, to support bicycle advocacy in Wisconsin.

The event featured both silent and live auctions, a raffle drawing and appearances by Tour de France rider Christian VandeVelde and former US Postal Service rider and Versus Television Commentator Robbie Ventura. The event drew more than 400 guests from across Wisconsin, including a motor coach full of bicycling enthusiasts from Milwaukee. Madison’s WMMM radio voice Pat Gallagher acted as the emcee for the evening, and Gayle Stallings of Austin Texas based FUNAuctions was the auctioneer.

Saris has hosted this annual event every year since its inception, opening its factory doors to any guest that wishes to support bicycling in Wisconsin. This event has raised $250,000 for the Bike Fed over the past five years. Saris’ President Chris Fortune said, “I feel that it is extremely important for all members of the cycling community to come together for causes such as these. I am proud that this event has grown over the past five years. We at Saris have set a precedent for industry members to become involved with their state and local Bicycle Federations to promote bicycle advocacy and education. We are the first in the nation to raise $100,000 in one fundraising event for a cycling advocacy group. We could not have done it without the generosity of our contributors, employees and volunteers.”

The Bike Fed of Wisconsin Executive Director Jack Hirt said, "The majority of the money raised will support the resources needed to implement educational programming across all users and to work on local and statewide advocacy efforts. We need to continue to build a grass roots lobbying base that is representative of the entire state and build bicycle friendly communities along the way. The success of the event reaffirms the confidence that the bicycle industry, as well as our members and guests have in our organization."

In addition to the title sponsor Saris Cycling Group, the Gala’s Gold Wheel Sponsors included Madison-based bicycle accessory maker Planet Bike, Madison-based bicycle company The Cannondale Sports Group and the law firm of Godfrey & Kahn of Madison. Numerous Silver Wheel sponsors from across Wisconsin including Trek Bicycles, Trek Travel, Food Fight Restaurant Group, J.T. Whitney’s Pub and Brewery, and many others also contributed to the success of the event. Many manufacturers from across the US donated products for the silent and live auctions.

Thanks to all who donated and took part in this year’s fundraiser.

Keep your number!

The WCA Cyclocross Series is experimenting with issuing permanent cyclocross numbers. This reduces the cost to race organizers, lightens our ecological footprint (Tyvek doesn't grow on trees!), and may make registration flow more quickly.

You can help us by bringing your number to each race. We've purchased enough to allow for a few spares, but don't want to run out before the end of the season!

Questions? Contact Heidi wcatech@earthlink.net

GDVC Rider Involved in Tragic Accident

Gregg Bednorski, a well known category 1 racer who raced for Great Dane Velo tragically was killed September 18 while riding his bike near Wausau. Gregg was universally liked and respected by the bike racing community in Wisconsin. Gregg is survived by his wife, Tammy, and his two young children. Funeral services are Monday September 22 @ Peterson/Kramer Funeral Home 1302 6th Street Wausau 54403 (715-845-6900). Visitation is @ 4pm service is @ 7pm.

WCA Treasurer, Amy Miller, Remembers Gregg Bednorski

We [Amy and her family] were lucky enough to have spent last Saturday with he and Tammy. Racing at Chequamegon after recovering from major back surgery, he had a very successful race. (As did Tammy after having their second child Adam just over a year ago.) We ate a great meal together cooked by Dale Carson: grilled salmon and steak, vegetables and rice. Gregg said it was the best meal he’d had in a year. We’ve known Gregg and Tammy for over fifteen years. When he spoke everyone listened, especially our son Simon. Gregg took him fishing over the years, mainly up at Chequamegon. It is the few trips out with Gregg that Simon remembers when the “fishing tales” come out (not the hundred-plus with Todd). Gregg had many talents and shared them all generously. The Miller family and the cycling community deeply mourn his death.

Bike racers invade Wisconsin for Jonathan Page's Planet Bike Cup on September 27 and 28 in Sun Prairie

An impressive field of racers will take to the speedway at Jonathan Page's Planet Bike Cup on September 27 and 28 at Angell Park Speedway in Sun Prairie, WI. Top racers from throughout the Midwest will contest the amateur events and will be joined by elite riders from throughout the Midwest as well as from California, Oregon, Colorado, Canada and Switzerland.

The elite men;s field will be headlined by Planet Bike's Jonathan Page, a multiple national champion and the 2006 world silver medalist who is fresh off a win at the Chequamegon Fat Tire Festival. Also in attendance will be Olympic mountain bike participant Todd Wells (GT) along with a strong group of racers with international race experience including Jonathan Baker (Vitamin Cottage) and Canadian Derrick St John (Jet Fuel Coffee). Added to the mix will be top Wisconsin series racers as well as several Swiss racers which should make for an exciting event for all the cowbell ringing fans.

The elite women's field will feature former US national team member Sarah Kerlin (HRS/Rock Lobster) and Canadian national team member Natasha Elliott (EMD Serano/Stevens). In addition, top riders from Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, Iowa and Nebraska will be in attendance vying for the same prize money as the elite men. Top local favorites include 2007 Wisconsin cyclocross champion Kristin Wentworth (Planet Bike) and Junior National Champion Anna Young (Planet Bike) who will be looking to use their home course advantage to take the win.

Pre-registration is available on BikeReg.con until Thursday, September 25 at 11am Central Time. Race day registration is also available starting at 8am, Day-of registration will incur an additional $10 fee so register now. For more information on the race weekend visit www.madcross.org.

Save the Date: October 17 for Bike Fed Gala

It’s back and it’s better than ever. The fall gathering of peeps who believe Wisco is a great place to ride and want to make it better still: the Saris Bike Fed Gala is October 17 from 6-10pm.

Get your car pool on and get yourself to Madison for a look inside Saris, a chat with Christian VandeVelde and a shot at some wicked good auction items. Warning: some items are priceless and reserve prices will be in effect. There’s no way you are going to win the ride in the Liquigas Team Car at the Giro unless you can write a check with a few 000s. Or win the new Schwinn Paramount built by Richard Schwinn himself for less than a few 000s---and remember. It’s not just for a good cause, it’s for THE cause.

Be there…it’s only $35 to get in and only 000s of dollars to get out! For info please see www.bfw.org.

Ben Turner of Cycle-Smart to lead Cyclocross Clinic in Chicago

Chicago Cyclocross Cup is proud to present the first annual cyclocross clinic on Saturday, September 13 at the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT). The clinic will be lead by Coach Ben Turner of Cycle-Smart. Ben who will be teaching the techniques and strategies needed for a successful cyclocross season. Ben is the current manager of CLIF BAR Development Cyclo-Cross Team, the top under-25 development cycling program in the country.

The schedule will be as follows:
9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (Beginner New crosser/less than 1 year experience)
1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Advanced/1 or more years of cross racing)

The cost of the clinic is $45 advance registration and it includes lunch, premiums, USA Cycling insurance, and Hammer Nutrition samplings. On-line registration premiums include Cycle-Smart “Solutions for Cyclo-Cross” DVD for the first 10 registered ($30 value), second group of 10 will receive other products ($30 value). In addition, all online registrants will be entered into a drawing for a cyclocross bike fit courtesy of Cycle Smithy of Chicago ($100 value). Other premiums will be raffled off throughout the day. On-line registration is open at www.sportsbaseonline.com.

On the same day a Bike Swap will be held and information can be found by visiting http://www.swapandhop.com/swap.html

The clinic is presented by Cycle Smythe, Cycle-Smart, Hammer Nutrition, IIT (Illinois Institute of Technology), Lavazza, Pony Shop (Chicago) and SunRingle.

The series kicks off with Race #1 on Sunday, September 21 at Jackson Park in the City of Chicago.

Further information about the clinic and series can be found by visiting www.chicrosscup.com

About Chicago Cyclocross Cup: the Chicago Cyclocross Cup was started in 2004 by a group of ‘crossers from local teams that had a strong desire to race in their neighborhood. They spoke to other people who had similar goals and before you knew it a series was born. While the series will vary from year to year, you can expect great new venues with spectacular support and all the fun that you expect at a ‘cross race. The goal of the group is to create a series that a rider can enjoy great competition and lively courses. (http://www.chicrosscup.com)

The Story Behind WIBIKELAW.COM

I think there is a saying about lawyers that says something like “you hate them until you need one.”

Dan Goldberg just might be the guy you need, although we hope you don’t. Goldberg (IS Corp) is the brain behind WIBIKELAW.com a new website advertiser on WCA. Like a lot of WCA riders he is a full time professional and unassuming behind his blue and white kit.

Goldberg started bike racing in 1968 when he was 10 years old and practicing law since 1983. So why did he start the website?

“Much of the development of the website comes from being out on the road on group rides and running into situations where laws were unclear or misunderstood. There are always questions about cyclists’ rights to the road, interactions with police or group riding considerations. The questions always pop up, so that’s why the website came about. Plus, riders have been involved in accidents and don’t know their rights or how to be treated fairly. Rather than trying to get these questions answered on the road, the website is designed to be a tool in getting the information riders need,” says Goldberg.

Goldberg’s first bicycle accident case was in 1986 and since then he has represented hundreds of cyclists. Being a competitive cyclist gives him a perspective that proves valuable in these cases. His goal is to resolve claims smoothly and effectively so that the riders can take care of their expenses, get their bikes replaced or repaired, and move on with their riding.

Goldberg designed the website to be a one-stop site for cycling information -- especially from the legal standpoint. On it you’ll find information such as what to do after an accident, what to do about traffic tickets, or what to do when your bike gets damaged. Insurance issues are also confusing; from crashes to airline travel issues. People are often surprised to hear that even roof rack mishaps may be covered by insurance.

I’ve also included local rider resources. There’s a list and description of local group rides. There’s also a marketplace section in which cyclists can post free listings to buy or sell bikes or cycling items. There’s a growing cycling links section. Each section is going to get better as people contribute information about rides, events, activities. It’s a great hub for the local cycling community.

Clearly, no one seeks a bike accident but what can one do if they are in such a situation? According to Goldberg “it’s important to gather witness names and have the police called to the accident scene to investigate. It’s also a good idea to seek medical attention as soon as possible. A person should make certain to take photographs of cuts, bruises and other signs of injury. Get a picture of your bike before anyone works on it. Don’t ever give a voluntary statement to an insurance company. I’m always a phone call away and my consultations are free.”

So what are some things that riders can do to avoid an accident?

1) Ride like drivers are trying to hit you. They really are not, but many of them are distracted so you are better off aiming to make eye contact to know if they see you before you make a move—even IF you have the right of way. In the game of car vs. bike, you’ll lose every time if you want to push your luck or make assumptions. And for you young folk out there, ask anyone over 40 what ASSUME really means.

2) Make yourself seen by wearing brightly colored clothing, especially at dawn and dusk. Get a blinking light for the back of your bike if you ride in early spring, late fall, or if your group rides go past dusk.

3) Avoid high-traffic areas if possible; it’s just too dangerous. You’ve got car doors opening, slow riders weaving in and out of traffic, and too much traffic.

4) Drive your bike. Riders have duties too. Avoid sudden lane changes and intersection “roll throughs.” And never, ever assume drivers will avoid you. One of the worst offenses a rider can make is rolling past a line of cars waiting to make a right turn. By law, you need to take your place in line, maybe not behind the car but behind the one that is last in line. By zooming to the front of the line you are ensuring that you’ll startle the car at the front of the line making a right turn. Capice? Don’t think you’re innocent…we’ve all seen enough stupid rider moves (and made them ourselves) to pretend we aren’t part of the problem.

Safe travels, all.

New Policy on Upgrades

USAC has announced an ew policy on category upgrades. The new policy can be seen at http://www.usacycling.org/forms/USAC_rulebook.pdf.

In brief, the upgrade requirements for road and CX have been changed significantly and it's the RIDER'S responsibility to know the rules. The essential differences compared to last year are:

• There is now a tiered scale of points based on how many participants were in the race. In some cases, this will make it easier to upgrade, especially in classes with small fields, but it will take more races to do so as the points are fewer.
• If road races do not meet the distance requirement to be considered a road race, they may still be long enough to be considered a criterium or circuit race. In that case there is a different points table to use, but points would still be available.
• The parameters for upgrading from 4 to 3 on experience alone have been modified.

Please consult the rulebook and if you have questions contact Heidi Mingesz or see an official at an upcoming race.