Circuit: Apley Circuit
A-E 2 laps
F 1 lap
G 1 lap (handicapped start)
Venue: Puketapu School
Race Briefing: 1:45pm
Race start time: 2pm
Race Starter: Helen Mackenzie
Emergency Phone: 027 426 6895
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Race Protocol
Please note that we will be having race briefings 5 minutes earlier at 1:45pm. Please ensure you are there, even if you have ‘heard it all before’. It is vital for compliance issues that all riders are briefed prior to every race we hold.
Due to ongoing issues with dropped riders, it is now required that dropped riders do NOT join other grades – even to just ‘sit on the back’. If you have been dropped, you may not join other grades. Instead, you must ride back to the venue on your own, or with other dropped riders.
Do NOT cross the white line – just to scoot around someone, just to “see”, just because... You are jeopardising everyone elses’s chance at being able to continue using the roads in the way we currently do.
Due to ongoing issues with dropped riders, it is now required that dropped riders do NOT join other grades – even to just ‘sit on the back’. If you have been dropped, you may not join other grades. Instead, you must ride back to the venue on your own, or with other dropped riders.
Do NOT cross the white line – just to scoot around someone, just to “see”, just because... You are jeopardising everyone elses’s chance at being able to continue using the roads in the way we currently do.
Ramblers Riders in a Bad Way
Last weekend was a tragic weekend for two Ramblers families.
On Saturday, Dave Joyce and Sirpa Lajunan, were hit from behind by a vehicle on Poihipi Road near Taupo. Both received significant injuries, and Sirpa has five damaged vertabrae which will need surgery. Dave and Sirpa used to own Revolution Bikes, and their son, Sean, rode through our ranks as a junior. Our warmest thoughts are with Dave and Sirpa as they face this life-altering challenge, and with Sean as he supports his parents.
On Sunday, the Taradale Clock Tower bunch were out for their usual training ride when two bicylces connected. Sadly, this resulted in up and coming junior, Holly Atkins, being air-lifted to Hastings Memorial Hospital with head and pelvis injuries. Holly has been in tremendous form this year, and our love and thoughts are with her as she faces this huge set-back. We are also thinking of her family, sister Lisa and parents Carolynne and Philip, as they support her through her recovery.
On Saturday, Dave Joyce and Sirpa Lajunan, were hit from behind by a vehicle on Poihipi Road near Taupo. Both received significant injuries, and Sirpa has five damaged vertabrae which will need surgery. Dave and Sirpa used to own Revolution Bikes, and their son, Sean, rode through our ranks as a junior. Our warmest thoughts are with Dave and Sirpa as they face this life-altering challenge, and with Sean as he supports his parents.
On Sunday, the Taradale Clock Tower bunch were out for their usual training ride when two bicylces connected. Sadly, this resulted in up and coming junior, Holly Atkins, being air-lifted to Hastings Memorial Hospital with head and pelvis injuries. Holly has been in tremendous form this year, and our love and thoughts are with her as she faces this huge set-back. We are also thinking of her family, sister Lisa and parents Carolynne and Philip, as they support her through her recovery.
Cyclocross Training
Sunday 3 June, 9am Eit Carpark
Last training session before the first cyclocross race of the year to be held at Blackbarn Sunday, June 17.
Sessions will run for approx 2hrs including skills sessions, remount/dismount practice, race pace efforts, carrying methods etc.
Last training session before the first cyclocross race of the year to be held at Blackbarn Sunday, June 17.
Sessions will run for approx 2hrs including skills sessions, remount/dismount practice, race pace efforts, carrying methods etc.
Carl Paton wants Guinea-Pigs
“I am looking for A-C grade riders (must be able to complete a 25km road TT in under 40minutes) who are willing to commit to 4 lab training sessions over a 4-5 week period. Sessions require the rider to complete a laboratory based computer simulated hilly 20km Time trial lasting between 35-40 minutes (depending on fitness of course). Each testing session takes around 90 minutes including preparation and warm up. You will receive feedback on performance and muscle balance and pedalling technique.”
Anyone interested should contact Carl Paton at EIT or cpaton@eit.ac.nz
Anyone interested should contact Carl Paton at EIT or cpaton@eit.ac.nz
Reminder: NZ Secondary Schools Championships
These dates for this event are 30th June for the time trial and 1st July for the road races. If you are interested in participating, please contact your school or the Event Organiser, Sandra Carter 021 477 686 or mscarter@xtra.co.nz
Entries close Monday 18th June 2012.
Entries close Monday 18th June 2012.
RCC Club Winter Dinner
When: Saturday 21st July, 2012
Where: War Memorial Hall, Marine Parade, Napier
Time: from 6pm for drinks (buy your own at the bar) - 7pm buffet dinner ($40 per head)
Guest Speaker: Gordon MacAuley
Contact mark.pauline@vodafone.co.nz to confirm your booking and arrange payment.
Where: War Memorial Hall, Marine Parade, Napier
Time: from 6pm for drinks (buy your own at the bar) - 7pm buffet dinner ($40 per head)
Guest Speaker: Gordon MacAuley
Contact mark.pauline@vodafone.co.nz to confirm your booking and arrange payment.
Upcoming Events
17th June: CX, Blackbarn, Havelock North
30th June: NZ Secondary Schools Indiviual Time Trials, Cambridge
1st July: NZ Secondary Schools Road Races, Cambridge
6th July: Ramblers Club Criterium, Marine Parade, Napier
6th – 8th July: Ride of Your Life Cycling Festival, Napier
8th July: Cyclocross National Championships, Napier
22nd July: CX, Roy’s Hill, Hastings
12th August: CX, Blackbarn, Havelock North
August: Reiker 2 Day Tour, Timaru
16th Septemeber: GIANT R4 Cycle Ride
22nd – 23rd September: R & R Sport Tour, Otago
2nd September: Clearview Winery, Napier
16th September: CX, Chesterhope, Hastings
30th September: Novice Tour of Manawatu
5th – 7th October: Yunca Junior Tour, Invercargill
14th October: Tour of the Bay, Hastings
4th November: Ibis Bike The Lake
30th June: NZ Secondary Schools Indiviual Time Trials, Cambridge
1st July: NZ Secondary Schools Road Races, Cambridge
6th July: Ramblers Club Criterium, Marine Parade, Napier
6th – 8th July: Ride of Your Life Cycling Festival, Napier
8th July: Cyclocross National Championships, Napier
22nd July: CX, Roy’s Hill, Hastings
12th August: CX, Blackbarn, Havelock North
August: Reiker 2 Day Tour, Timaru
16th Septemeber: GIANT R4 Cycle Ride
22nd – 23rd September: R & R Sport Tour, Otago
2nd September: Clearview Winery, Napier
16th September: CX, Chesterhope, Hastings
30th September: Novice Tour of Manawatu
5th – 7th October: Yunca Junior Tour, Invercargill
14th October: Tour of the Bay, Hastings
4th November: Ibis Bike The Lake
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
THE CHESTERHOPE MAGPIE RETURNS
Readers may recall that in the last issue of Ramblin On, I wrote an article about the ‘Chesterhope Magpie’ aka Ramblers Chairman Gavin Bush. Unknown to me, at least until I received my copy of the magazine (which is about to go electronic), Roy Van Panhuys had also written an article about the Chesterhope Magpie just before his untimely death.
That was rather ironic, but as soon as I read Roy’s story, I knew his creation needed to live on, and indeed he does.You see the Chesterhope Magpie (‘Chepie’ for short) has been at it again. He can’t help himself. He sees something and he picks it up and he runs off with it, or on this occasion, walks off with it.
As you will see from the accompanying photo, the object that drew his attention this time was a large red cone. It is not clear what he does with them, or how many he has stored away, but during the recent National Club Championships hosted by Ramblers, Chepie could be seen carting off red cones every day.
Acting like an investigative reporter, I tailed Chepie for the four days of the Nationals. I took several hundred photos, which are on the Ramblers website, as a decoy. If Chepie thought I was taking photos, supposedly for Ramblers and Bike NZ, he would not suspect I was spying, I mean, checking on him. And so it came to pass. The photos were taken and downloaded by Steve Watson for all to enjoy, using something he calls Picasso, or whatever. Some of the ITT photos are upside down, just for artistic flare. Actually I have no explanation for this other than the fact investigative reporting can sometimes turn your world upside down.
But let’s get back to the main story. It has now been confirmed that Chepie engaged the help of Chepie 2 (real name Ken McKenzie) and Chepie 3 (real name Brett Hooker). Chepie 2 and Chepie 3 were also seen gathering red cones and other objects as well, such as microphones, clipboards, walkie talkies and so on during the Nationals.
Not everyone will appreciate Chepies, but in fact the club owes these three Chepies, and several helpers they swooped on during the Nationals, for organizing and running an event that can only be described as a resounding success and something special. These Chepies have brought a lot of credit to Ramblers, which Bike NZ has publicly recognized. The photos of the Nationals are testimony to the magnitude of the event these guys were in charge of, and so the finding of my undercover investigation is that they are deservedly the first recipients of the Roy Van Panhuys Chesterhope Magpie trophy, awarded to those who pick something up and run with it successfully. So congratulations Gavin, Ken and Brett, for a job well done. I am sure Roy would have been one of the first to say so.Now if only I could remember where I put that trophy…..
That was rather ironic, but as soon as I read Roy’s story, I knew his creation needed to live on, and indeed he does.You see the Chesterhope Magpie (‘Chepie’ for short) has been at it again. He can’t help himself. He sees something and he picks it up and he runs off with it, or on this occasion, walks off with it.
As you will see from the accompanying photo, the object that drew his attention this time was a large red cone. It is not clear what he does with them, or how many he has stored away, but during the recent National Club Championships hosted by Ramblers, Chepie could be seen carting off red cones every day.
Acting like an investigative reporter, I tailed Chepie for the four days of the Nationals. I took several hundred photos, which are on the Ramblers website, as a decoy. If Chepie thought I was taking photos, supposedly for Ramblers and Bike NZ, he would not suspect I was spying, I mean, checking on him. And so it came to pass. The photos were taken and downloaded by Steve Watson for all to enjoy, using something he calls Picasso, or whatever. Some of the ITT photos are upside down, just for artistic flare. Actually I have no explanation for this other than the fact investigative reporting can sometimes turn your world upside down.
But let’s get back to the main story. It has now been confirmed that Chepie engaged the help of Chepie 2 (real name Ken McKenzie) and Chepie 3 (real name Brett Hooker). Chepie 2 and Chepie 3 were also seen gathering red cones and other objects as well, such as microphones, clipboards, walkie talkies and so on during the Nationals.
Not everyone will appreciate Chepies, but in fact the club owes these three Chepies, and several helpers they swooped on during the Nationals, for organizing and running an event that can only be described as a resounding success and something special. These Chepies have brought a lot of credit to Ramblers, which Bike NZ has publicly recognized. The photos of the Nationals are testimony to the magnitude of the event these guys were in charge of, and so the finding of my undercover investigation is that they are deservedly the first recipients of the Roy Van Panhuys Chesterhope Magpie trophy, awarded to those who pick something up and run with it successfully. So congratulations Gavin, Ken and Brett, for a job well done. I am sure Roy would have been one of the first to say so.Now if only I could remember where I put that trophy…..
Monday, May 28, 2012
Best wishes for speedy recovery Holly
Our thoughts are with Holly Atkins and Family as Holly recovers from bad crash at Whana Whana on Sunday ride.
Ashleigh and Hannah's adventures continue:
The invention of the house, sun shiney days and Rockstars.
First off we would like to send our love and prayers to Holly Atkins and her family. We hope you heal well, and quickly! We are thinking of you, let us know if any Euro goodies can help. xxx
So another week has passed us by, how time flies when you’re having fun!
Monday certainly provided its fair amount of fun, after a bit of a lazy morning we hit up some 30/30s. We found a new way to play this game where one rider goes and the other waits, and then as they finish their effort the second rider jumps. It’s a pretty neat game of Cat and Mouse, or sometimes Leap Frog. (Depending on who has the legs). We pick the mouse through the very fair method of paper scissors rock. Of course. J We then had a lazy evening lying in the garden, stretching and gossiping away, as per usual. We took ourselves on an adventure on Tuesday, using the number system to find a new training loop around the lake of Amstelmeer. It’s such a nice circuit, and actual takes us away from the traffic lights and confused tourists for a while. Believe it or not! Why has no body shown us this before?? The highlight of the day was a very philosophical Hannah talking about how everything has been invented by someone “you know, it’s crazy how at some point everything has been invented, even, like, houses”. Ahh, han, you don’t think that maybe people started in caves, and then add to them and they made mud huts with sticks and things and eventually there were houses? It really was a golden moment.
We let loose our inner rockstars on Wednesday, riding to a town just outside of Amsterdam for a crit. We went via Harleem so to avoid having to actually navigate through A’dam itself, and clocked up a nice 85km pre race. The race itself was awesome, a fairly long round at 2.2km, with 80 or so riders of mixed age, ability and gender. It was all on from the gun and Ashleigh managed to slip herself into the first move, lasting about 4 laps before they were shut down. After that it was all about staying up the front of the race, and with one or two laps excluded, we were very successful. At one point a break went and Ashleigh jumped across to a wheel in no mans land, on seeing this, the real nice guy swung across the road and left her in the gutter, jumping across on his own. Well! When Ashleigh also finally made it across on her own, guess who lost his spot in the echelon! Ha! Yea, that’s right, don’t mess with us. Hannah practised her leg speed, having cable issues restrict her gears. Because of this and, some miscommunication the lead out failed at the end of the race; but at least Ashleigh got to have the result instead. We won just enough to top our funds up for a train ticket home. sweet! A brief shower and some muchies and we were whizzing our way home in cheerful, if somewhat sleepy, spirits.
We had to part ways on Thursday. L Such trauma called for a Vodafone top up so we could send each other many txts while we were apart. Ashleigh was off for the ParkHotel Valkenburg Hill Classic, in Limburg. She got to drive the team bus, a very sweaty experience! Stress levels were maxed! And spend the night in our team sponsor hotel, very flashy indeed, 5 course meal included. Hannah had her bicycle fixed and had a wee wander around the shops. Going for some intervals in the evening.
Friday was race day! Yahooo! I was warned about Dutch girls not being able to climb, that they would stop on the steep hills because they were scared. Righto. Be. Up. The. Front. I managed to be there for the first 20k or so; we had a 35km loop followed by four 12 km loops. The first loop covered about 5 “big” climbs, big by Dutch standards and the little loop took us up two bergs, meaning “mountains”. They were only about 1/1.5 km long but at 22% in parts they certainly took their toll on the bunch. Any way long story short, I let myself slip too far down the bunch between two of the climbs on the big loop, trying to get past 160 riders on a road as wide as a driveway is pretty difficult, and I once again found myself in a bunch too far from the front, and pulled out on the 2nd little loop. Rats. Things are improving though, particularly confidence in the bunch, so I’m generally pretty happy. Besides, how far up the bunch can you hope to be when you are on the start line next to Emma Poole and Mariana Vos? Haha. One day I’ll be there. Hannah got to enjoy the sunshine at her own pace, going for a ride with a friend back in the north.
Saturday we got up and got on the bikes, getting home from training around 9, to be fair it was a pretty easy, very short recovery ride. One of those guilt free effortless days.. ahhh. Bliss. We then donned summer dresses, because we could, and went for a walk in the direction of the beach. A browse through the shops saw us purchase a kite for 2 euro, which we then attempted to fly in the Dutch wind. Quite a challenge that one. Eventually we managed to get Bert into the air, very brief as it may have been. He soon plummet with great speed towards the ground. Bert now needs fixing. Sunday was very much a repeat of Saturday, except instead of flying a kite up to the highest heights we lazed on the beach getting a head start on those tan lines, and even went swimming in the sea.
Race day again today, although we don’t start until 2.30 and so don’t leave until 12.30.
Dooi!
Ashleigh and Hannah
First off we would like to send our love and prayers to Holly Atkins and her family. We hope you heal well, and quickly! We are thinking of you, let us know if any Euro goodies can help. xxx
So another week has passed us by, how time flies when you’re having fun!
Monday certainly provided its fair amount of fun, after a bit of a lazy morning we hit up some 30/30s. We found a new way to play this game where one rider goes and the other waits, and then as they finish their effort the second rider jumps. It’s a pretty neat game of Cat and Mouse, or sometimes Leap Frog. (Depending on who has the legs). We pick the mouse through the very fair method of paper scissors rock. Of course. J We then had a lazy evening lying in the garden, stretching and gossiping away, as per usual. We took ourselves on an adventure on Tuesday, using the number system to find a new training loop around the lake of Amstelmeer. It’s such a nice circuit, and actual takes us away from the traffic lights and confused tourists for a while. Believe it or not! Why has no body shown us this before?? The highlight of the day was a very philosophical Hannah talking about how everything has been invented by someone “you know, it’s crazy how at some point everything has been invented, even, like, houses”. Ahh, han, you don’t think that maybe people started in caves, and then add to them and they made mud huts with sticks and things and eventually there were houses? It really was a golden moment.
We let loose our inner rockstars on Wednesday, riding to a town just outside of Amsterdam for a crit. We went via Harleem so to avoid having to actually navigate through A’dam itself, and clocked up a nice 85km pre race. The race itself was awesome, a fairly long round at 2.2km, with 80 or so riders of mixed age, ability and gender. It was all on from the gun and Ashleigh managed to slip herself into the first move, lasting about 4 laps before they were shut down. After that it was all about staying up the front of the race, and with one or two laps excluded, we were very successful. At one point a break went and Ashleigh jumped across to a wheel in no mans land, on seeing this, the real nice guy swung across the road and left her in the gutter, jumping across on his own. Well! When Ashleigh also finally made it across on her own, guess who lost his spot in the echelon! Ha! Yea, that’s right, don’t mess with us. Hannah practised her leg speed, having cable issues restrict her gears. Because of this and, some miscommunication the lead out failed at the end of the race; but at least Ashleigh got to have the result instead. We won just enough to top our funds up for a train ticket home. sweet! A brief shower and some muchies and we were whizzing our way home in cheerful, if somewhat sleepy, spirits.
We had to part ways on Thursday. L Such trauma called for a Vodafone top up so we could send each other many txts while we were apart. Ashleigh was off for the ParkHotel Valkenburg Hill Classic, in Limburg. She got to drive the team bus, a very sweaty experience! Stress levels were maxed! And spend the night in our team sponsor hotel, very flashy indeed, 5 course meal included. Hannah had her bicycle fixed and had a wee wander around the shops. Going for some intervals in the evening.
Friday was race day! Yahooo! I was warned about Dutch girls not being able to climb, that they would stop on the steep hills because they were scared. Righto. Be. Up. The. Front. I managed to be there for the first 20k or so; we had a 35km loop followed by four 12 km loops. The first loop covered about 5 “big” climbs, big by Dutch standards and the little loop took us up two bergs, meaning “mountains”. They were only about 1/1.5 km long but at 22% in parts they certainly took their toll on the bunch. Any way long story short, I let myself slip too far down the bunch between two of the climbs on the big loop, trying to get past 160 riders on a road as wide as a driveway is pretty difficult, and I once again found myself in a bunch too far from the front, and pulled out on the 2nd little loop. Rats. Things are improving though, particularly confidence in the bunch, so I’m generally pretty happy. Besides, how far up the bunch can you hope to be when you are on the start line next to Emma Poole and Mariana Vos? Haha. One day I’ll be there. Hannah got to enjoy the sunshine at her own pace, going for a ride with a friend back in the north.
Saturday we got up and got on the bikes, getting home from training around 9, to be fair it was a pretty easy, very short recovery ride. One of those guilt free effortless days.. ahhh. Bliss. We then donned summer dresses, because we could, and went for a walk in the direction of the beach. A browse through the shops saw us purchase a kite for 2 euro, which we then attempted to fly in the Dutch wind. Quite a challenge that one. Eventually we managed to get Bert into the air, very brief as it may have been. He soon plummet with great speed towards the ground. Bert now needs fixing. Sunday was very much a repeat of Saturday, except instead of flying a kite up to the highest heights we lazed on the beach getting a head start on those tan lines, and even went swimming in the sea.
Race day again today, although we don’t start until 2.30 and so don’t leave until 12.30.
Dooi!
Ashleigh and Hannah
Winter Race Programme Now Posted
Check out the winter Programme starting with Apley circuit this weekend
http://www.ramblers.co.nz/BlogFiles/Winterraceprogramme2012.pdf
http://www.ramblers.co.nz/BlogFiles/Winterraceprogramme2012.pdf
Napier Sunday Ride Winter Progamme
New Sunday Ride programme for Napier leaving from Taradale Clock Tower has been posted
Click Here for details : http://www.ramblers.co.nz/programme-sunday.asp
Click Here for Programme http://www.ramblers.co.nz/BlogFiles/NapierWinter.pdf
Click Here for details : http://www.ramblers.co.nz/programme-sunday.asp
Click Here for Programme http://www.ramblers.co.nz/BlogFiles/NapierWinter.pdf
An Post Ras Tour of Ireland – Final Wrap
Southland cyclist Pieter Bulling finished on the podium for the under-23 category when the An Post Ras Tour of Ireland finished at Skerries, north of Dublin today.
Bulling, part of the BikeNZ-Pure Black Racing Under-23 team, finished third overall in the under-23 class after the eighth and final stage over 139kms of lumpy terrain to Skerries.
He finished in the peloton with a large bunch of 70 riders fighting out a sprint finish, won by last year’s overall champion Gediminas Bagdonas (An Post Sean Kelly). Frenchman Nicholas Baldo (Atlas Jakroo) finished in the bunch to become the winner of the 60th edition of the famous race.
Bulling got some excellent help from teammate Taylor Gunman who went with a chasing group to reel in the break by Irishman Sean Downey (An Post Sean Kelly) who was a potential threat to the under-23 hierarchy.
The lead stretched to two minutes over the first two climbs but as Gunman and the others dropped off, the peloton reeled them all in on the closing two laps of the 14km circuit at Skerries to ensure a sprint finish.
The best of the kiwis was Cameron Karwowski who featured in the sprint in 12th place with Bulling 22nd and Scott Creighton 50th but all with the same time as the winner, while Gunman finished 2m11sec down after his exertions.
There was little time to relax for the BikeNZ-PBR Under-23 endurance team, who packed to fly out to USA today where they will be based in Trexlertown in Pennsylvania for some further road and track racing and training.
Results, An Post Ras tour of Ireland, stage 8, 140km: Gediminas Bagdonas (LTU, An Post Sean Kelly) 3:15.56, 1; Sam Bennett (IRL, An Post Sean Kelly) same time, 2; Marcin Bialoblocki (POL, Britain Giordana Racing) same time, 3. Also New Zealanders: Cameron Karwowski same time, 12, Piet Bulling same time, 22; Scott Creighton same time, 50; Taylor Gunman at 2:11, 82.
Overall: Nicolas Baldo (FRA, Atlas Jakroo) 26:55.57, 1; Thomas Rostollan (FRA, Aix En Provence) at 13sec, 2; Martin Hunal (CZE, AC Sparta) at 17sec, 3. Also New Zealanders: Bulling at5:23, 25; Gunman at 12:07, 38; Creighton at 21:37, 50; Karwowski at 21:45, 51.
Under-23: Richard Handley (GBR, Rapha Condor Sharp) 26:56.15, 1; Lasse Hansen (DEN, Blue Water) at 4:18, 2; Bulling at 5:08, 3.
Credit: Sportsfile.
For further information contact:
IAN HEPENSTALL
Media Liaison, BikeNZ High Performance
Sports Media NZ Ltd
Bulling, part of the BikeNZ-Pure Black Racing Under-23 team, finished third overall in the under-23 class after the eighth and final stage over 139kms of lumpy terrain to Skerries.
He finished in the peloton with a large bunch of 70 riders fighting out a sprint finish, won by last year’s overall champion Gediminas Bagdonas (An Post Sean Kelly). Frenchman Nicholas Baldo (Atlas Jakroo) finished in the bunch to become the winner of the 60th edition of the famous race.
CAPTION: Auckland’s Taylor Gunman (second from right), part of the BikeNZ-Pure Black Racing Under-23 team, away in the break in the final stage of the An Post Ras Tour of Ireland that finished at Skerries today.
Bulling got some excellent help from teammate Taylor Gunman who went with a chasing group to reel in the break by Irishman Sean Downey (An Post Sean Kelly) who was a potential threat to the under-23 hierarchy.
The lead stretched to two minutes over the first two climbs but as Gunman and the others dropped off, the peloton reeled them all in on the closing two laps of the 14km circuit at Skerries to ensure a sprint finish.
The best of the kiwis was Cameron Karwowski who featured in the sprint in 12th place with Bulling 22nd and Scott Creighton 50th but all with the same time as the winner, while Gunman finished 2m11sec down after his exertions.
There was little time to relax for the BikeNZ-PBR Under-23 endurance team, who packed to fly out to USA today where they will be based in Trexlertown in Pennsylvania for some further road and track racing and training.
Results, An Post Ras tour of Ireland, stage 8, 140km: Gediminas Bagdonas (LTU, An Post Sean Kelly) 3:15.56, 1; Sam Bennett (IRL, An Post Sean Kelly) same time, 2; Marcin Bialoblocki (POL, Britain Giordana Racing) same time, 3. Also New Zealanders: Cameron Karwowski same time, 12, Piet Bulling same time, 22; Scott Creighton same time, 50; Taylor Gunman at 2:11, 82.
Overall: Nicolas Baldo (FRA, Atlas Jakroo) 26:55.57, 1; Thomas Rostollan (FRA, Aix En Provence) at 13sec, 2; Martin Hunal (CZE, AC Sparta) at 17sec, 3. Also New Zealanders: Bulling at5:23, 25; Gunman at 12:07, 38; Creighton at 21:37, 50; Karwowski at 21:45, 51.
Under-23: Richard Handley (GBR, Rapha Condor Sharp) 26:56.15, 1; Lasse Hansen (DEN, Blue Water) at 4:18, 2; Bulling at 5:08, 3.
Credit: Sportsfile.
For further information contact:
IAN HEPENSTALL
Media Liaison, BikeNZ High Performance
Sports Media NZ Ltd
Olympic-bound Sergent finishes Giro on the podium
Olympic cyclist Jesse Sergent finished his first Grand Tour with a podium placing in the individual time trial in the final stage of the Giro d’Italia in Milan today.
Sergent, riding for his Radioshack Nissan Trek team, was third in the test, shorted to 28.2km because of road works.
Sergent was fastest of the early starters and the first rider to go under the 34 minute barrier. He held that time for a considerable period until edged out by Sky’s Geraint Thomas by 14 seconds.
Like Sergent, the Welshman will now move attentions to the track to prepare for July’s London Olympics.
Course specialist Marco Pinotti (ITA, BMC Racing) proved the best coming home in 33:06, more than 30 seconds faster than Thomas. The Italian won the time trial in 2006 and was second fastest for the past two years.
Sergent, 23, said his first Giro was a massive experience.
“This was my first Grand Tour and it was hard,” Sergent said. “There was a lot of climbing. Me in the mountains…I am a big guy. Never in my life have I ridden such climbs. It was all pretty new for me, but it will make me stronger.
“Now first of all I look forward to my recovery and then I begin my preparation for the Olympic Games and the team pursuit for New Zealand.
“It was a great job from Jesse,” said team director Dirk Demol. “This was his first Grand Tour and these three weeks were so hard. It’s great what he did. Jesse is the future of cycling.”
The BikeNZ endurance track riders are all competing and training on the roads in Europe and will go into camp at the famed velodrome in Bordeaux late next month.
For further information contact:
IAN HEPENSTALL
Media Liaison, BikeNZ High Performance
Sports Media NZ Ltd
Sergent, riding for his Radioshack Nissan Trek team, was third in the test, shorted to 28.2km because of road works.
Sergent was fastest of the early starters and the first rider to go under the 34 minute barrier. He held that time for a considerable period until edged out by Sky’s Geraint Thomas by 14 seconds.
Like Sergent, the Welshman will now move attentions to the track to prepare for July’s London Olympics.
Course specialist Marco Pinotti (ITA, BMC Racing) proved the best coming home in 33:06, more than 30 seconds faster than Thomas. The Italian won the time trial in 2006 and was second fastest for the past two years.
Sergent, 23, said his first Giro was a massive experience.
“This was my first Grand Tour and it was hard,” Sergent said. “There was a lot of climbing. Me in the mountains…I am a big guy. Never in my life have I ridden such climbs. It was all pretty new for me, but it will make me stronger.
“Now first of all I look forward to my recovery and then I begin my preparation for the Olympic Games and the team pursuit for New Zealand.
“It was a great job from Jesse,” said team director Dirk Demol. “This was his first Grand Tour and these three weeks were so hard. It’s great what he did. Jesse is the future of cycling.”
The BikeNZ endurance track riders are all competing and training on the roads in Europe and will go into camp at the famed velodrome in Bordeaux late next month.
For further information contact:
IAN HEPENSTALL
Media Liaison, BikeNZ High Performance
Sports Media NZ Ltd
Sunday, May 27, 2012
Thoughts are with David Joyce and Sirpa Lajunen and family.
Our thoughts and best wishes for a speedy recovery to former Ramblers David Joyce and Sirpa Lajunen who were airlifted to Waikato Hospital after being struck by a 4WD on Poihipi Rd just after 3pm on Friday. Both underwent surgery yesterday. Sirpa has serious injuries with possible shattered vertebrae.
http://www.rotoruadailypost.co.nz/news/taupo-cycling-couples-horror-smash/1395091/
http://www.rotoruadailypost.co.nz/news/taupo-cycling-couples-horror-smash/1395091/
An Post Ras Tour of Ireland – NZ Wrap Stage 7
The BikeNZ-Pure Black Racing Under-23 team all finished in the peloton on the penultimate stage of the An Post Ras Tour of Ireland today.
The four cyclists finished in the main bunch after two riders skipped clear in the final 10kms to claim the major honours, won by Lasse Hansen (DEN), who is second overall in the under-23 battle.
Top kiwi hope Pieter Bulling and the hard working Scott Creighton were nvolved in crashes in the final 10kms of the 161km stage from Donegal to Cootehill. Both riders managed to get back on to the bunch with Bulling remaining in third place in the Under-23 best rider category.
CAPTION: The hard working Scott Creighton in action in the An Post Ras Tour of Ireland. Credit: Sportsfile.
The two-man attack went just before the New Zealand team’s planned assault and they missed the opportunity to bridge across to the leading pair.
Cameron Karwowski was the best of the team today in 11th place, again prominent in the bunch sprint with the peloton finishing just 12 seconds behind the winner.
Frenchman Nicolas Baldo (Atlas Jakroo) retained his overall lead with Bulling best placed of the team in 26th place, 5m26s down on the yellow jersey.
Tomorrow’s final stage is 139kms with five category three climbs before finishing with a two lap circuit in the now traditional finish at Skerries, on the east coast north of Dublin.
Results, An Post Ras Tour of Ireland, stage 7, 161km Donegal to Cootehill: lasse Hansen (DEN, Blue Water) 4L13.21, 1; Kai Exner (GER, Bike Aid) at 7 sec, 2; Sam Bennett (IEL) An Post Sean Kelly) at 12 sec, 3. Also New Zealanders: Cameron Karwowski at 12 sec, 11; Taylor gunman same time, 41; Scott Creighton same time, 69; Piet Bulling same time, 89.
General classification after 7 stages: Nicolas Baldo (FRA, Atlas Jakroo) 23:40.01, 1; Thomas Rostollan (FRA) Aix En Provence) at 13 sec, 2; Martin Hunai (CZE, AC Sparta) at 17 sec, 3. Also: Bulling at 5:26, 26; Gunman at 9:56, 35; Creighton at 21:37, 51; Karwowski at 21:45, 52.
Under-23: Richard Handley (GBR) 23:40.19, 1; Hansen at 4:18, 2; Bulling at 5:08, 3. Also: Gunman at 9:38, 8.
For further information contact:
IAN HEPENSTALL
Media Liaison, BikeNZ High Performance
Sports Media NZ Ltd
The four cyclists finished in the main bunch after two riders skipped clear in the final 10kms to claim the major honours, won by Lasse Hansen (DEN), who is second overall in the under-23 battle.
Top kiwi hope Pieter Bulling and the hard working Scott Creighton were nvolved in crashes in the final 10kms of the 161km stage from Donegal to Cootehill. Both riders managed to get back on to the bunch with Bulling remaining in third place in the Under-23 best rider category.
CAPTION: The hard working Scott Creighton in action in the An Post Ras Tour of Ireland. Credit: Sportsfile.
The two-man attack went just before the New Zealand team’s planned assault and they missed the opportunity to bridge across to the leading pair.
Cameron Karwowski was the best of the team today in 11th place, again prominent in the bunch sprint with the peloton finishing just 12 seconds behind the winner.
Frenchman Nicolas Baldo (Atlas Jakroo) retained his overall lead with Bulling best placed of the team in 26th place, 5m26s down on the yellow jersey.
Tomorrow’s final stage is 139kms with five category three climbs before finishing with a two lap circuit in the now traditional finish at Skerries, on the east coast north of Dublin.
Results, An Post Ras Tour of Ireland, stage 7, 161km Donegal to Cootehill: lasse Hansen (DEN, Blue Water) 4L13.21, 1; Kai Exner (GER, Bike Aid) at 7 sec, 2; Sam Bennett (IEL) An Post Sean Kelly) at 12 sec, 3. Also New Zealanders: Cameron Karwowski at 12 sec, 11; Taylor gunman same time, 41; Scott Creighton same time, 69; Piet Bulling same time, 89.
General classification after 7 stages: Nicolas Baldo (FRA, Atlas Jakroo) 23:40.01, 1; Thomas Rostollan (FRA) Aix En Provence) at 13 sec, 2; Martin Hunai (CZE, AC Sparta) at 17 sec, 3. Also: Bulling at 5:26, 26; Gunman at 9:56, 35; Creighton at 21:37, 51; Karwowski at 21:45, 52.
Under-23: Richard Handley (GBR) 23:40.19, 1; Hansen at 4:18, 2; Bulling at 5:08, 3. Also: Gunman at 9:38, 8.
For further information contact:
IAN HEPENSTALL
Media Liaison, BikeNZ High Performance
Sports Media NZ Ltd
Saturday, May 26, 2012
An Post Ras Tour of Ireland – NZ Wrap Stage 6
Invercargill cyclist Pieter Bulling moved into contention for the Under-23 podium after a strong performance in stage six of the An Post Ras Tour of Ireland.
Bulling and fellow BikeNZ-Pure Black Racing Under-23 teammate Taylor Gunman finished in a select lead group after the gruelling 134km stage from Bunrana to the west coast fishing port of Killybegs, which featured with several category one and two climbs.
Yellow jersey holder Nicolas Baldo (FRA, Atlas Jakroo) rode clear with a late attack to win the stage from a 30-strong bunch just 10 seconds back where the kiwis were prominent, finishing 11th and 12th respectively in the sprint finish.
CAPTION: Hamilton’s Scott Creighton tackles a climb in the An Post Ras Tour of Ireland. Credit: Sportsfile.
Bulling has now moved to third on overall classification in the Under-23 class, 5:08 off the leader Richard Handley and is 27th overall at 5:26 down on the leader. He gained six places in the under-23 today, while Gunman is seventh in the under-23 race and 36th overall.
The summer turned out in force today with temperatures topping at 30C deg which added to the challenge of the telling climbs, with the field splintered after a fast first hour covering 48kms followed by a tough category two ascent.
Southland’s Cameron Karwowski lost time with a mechanical issue, requiring a bike change, and was supported by Scott Creighton while Bulling and Gunman rode powerfully to go with the select group that went clear off the front
Bulling dropped off the group with 15kms to go but after 10kms of hard solo riding, he managed to ride back on to the peloton and received a lead-out from Gunman in the sprint. The kiwis were later relegated to outside the top 10 but enjoyed a strong performance.
Meanwhile Auckland’s Dion Smith, who broke his wrist and radius in a stage 3 crash, joined coach Daniel Healey in the team car today following recovery from surgery.
Tomorrow’s penultimate stage is 161kms from Donegal moving south and inland towards Dublin to finish at Cootehill featuring two categorised climbs.
Results An Post Ras Tour of Ireland Stage 6, Buncrana to Killybegs, 134km: Nicolas Baldo (FRA, Atlas Jakroo) 3:06.44, 1; Krister Hagen (NOR) at 10sec, 2; Adam Armstrong (IRL) same time 3. Also New Zealanders: Piet Bulling st 11; Taylor Gunman st 12; Scott Creighton at 13:18, 74; Cameron Karwowski, st 75.
Overall classification after 6 stages: Baldo 19:26.28, 1; Thomas Rostollan (FRA, Aix En Provence) at 13sec, 2; Martin Hunal (CZE, AC Sparta) at 17s, 3. Also New Zealanders: Bulling at 5:26, 27; Gunman at 9:56, 36; Creighton at 21.37, 53; Karwowski at 21.45, 54.
Under-23: Richard Handley (GBR) 19:26.46, 1; Lasse Hansen (DEN) at 4:30, 2; Bulling at 5:08, 3. Also: Gunman at 9:38, 7.
For further information contact:
IAN HEPENSTALL
Media Liaison, BikeNZ High Performance
Sports Media NZ Ltd
Bulling and fellow BikeNZ-Pure Black Racing Under-23 teammate Taylor Gunman finished in a select lead group after the gruelling 134km stage from Bunrana to the west coast fishing port of Killybegs, which featured with several category one and two climbs.
Yellow jersey holder Nicolas Baldo (FRA, Atlas Jakroo) rode clear with a late attack to win the stage from a 30-strong bunch just 10 seconds back where the kiwis were prominent, finishing 11th and 12th respectively in the sprint finish.
CAPTION: Hamilton’s Scott Creighton tackles a climb in the An Post Ras Tour of Ireland. Credit: Sportsfile.
Bulling has now moved to third on overall classification in the Under-23 class, 5:08 off the leader Richard Handley and is 27th overall at 5:26 down on the leader. He gained six places in the under-23 today, while Gunman is seventh in the under-23 race and 36th overall.
The summer turned out in force today with temperatures topping at 30C deg which added to the challenge of the telling climbs, with the field splintered after a fast first hour covering 48kms followed by a tough category two ascent.
Southland’s Cameron Karwowski lost time with a mechanical issue, requiring a bike change, and was supported by Scott Creighton while Bulling and Gunman rode powerfully to go with the select group that went clear off the front
Bulling dropped off the group with 15kms to go but after 10kms of hard solo riding, he managed to ride back on to the peloton and received a lead-out from Gunman in the sprint. The kiwis were later relegated to outside the top 10 but enjoyed a strong performance.
Meanwhile Auckland’s Dion Smith, who broke his wrist and radius in a stage 3 crash, joined coach Daniel Healey in the team car today following recovery from surgery.
Tomorrow’s penultimate stage is 161kms from Donegal moving south and inland towards Dublin to finish at Cootehill featuring two categorised climbs.
Results An Post Ras Tour of Ireland Stage 6, Buncrana to Killybegs, 134km: Nicolas Baldo (FRA, Atlas Jakroo) 3:06.44, 1; Krister Hagen (NOR) at 10sec, 2; Adam Armstrong (IRL) same time 3. Also New Zealanders: Piet Bulling st 11; Taylor Gunman st 12; Scott Creighton at 13:18, 74; Cameron Karwowski, st 75.
Overall classification after 6 stages: Baldo 19:26.28, 1; Thomas Rostollan (FRA, Aix En Provence) at 13sec, 2; Martin Hunal (CZE, AC Sparta) at 17s, 3. Also New Zealanders: Bulling at 5:26, 27; Gunman at 9:56, 36; Creighton at 21.37, 53; Karwowski at 21.45, 54.
Under-23: Richard Handley (GBR) 19:26.46, 1; Lasse Hansen (DEN) at 4:30, 2; Bulling at 5:08, 3. Also: Gunman at 9:38, 7.
For further information contact:
IAN HEPENSTALL
Media Liaison, BikeNZ High Performance
Sports Media NZ Ltd
Friday, May 25, 2012
An Post Ras Tour of Ireland – Stage 5 NZ Wrap
The big climbs caught out the young New Zealand cycling team on stage five of the An Post Ras Tour of Ireland today.
Today’s route from Bundoran to Buncrana in the north west of Ireland was earmarked as the most challenging and punishing stage in recent Rás history with five categorised climbs, including the category one backbreaking ascent of Mamore Gap, the steepest road climb in the country.
Ironically the best of the BikeNZ-Pure Black Racing Under-23 team was the sprint specialist Piet Bulling (Invercargill) who managed his way over the climbs to finish in the second bunch 1min 56sec down on stage winner Thomas Rostollan (FRA, Aix En Provence) on a day when the major professional team asserted their authority.
It allowed compatriot Nicolas Baldo (Switzerland Jakroo) to take over the tour leader’s yellow jersey just three seconds clear of Rostollan.
Main kiwi hope Cameron Karwowski struggled today after some strong support work from Taylor Gunman and Scott Creighton, who went on to finish mid-pack, 6m 26s down with Karwowski two minutes further back.
Bulling has moved to the best placed of the team in 38th place on general classification, 5m16s down on the leader and ninth in the under-23 category.
There is no respite in tomorrow’s 134km sixth stage which comprises four tough climbs of category one and two class through to the fishing town of Killybegs on the north west coast.
Results, stage 5 Bundoran to Buncrana, 149km: Thomas Rostollan (FRA, Aix En Provence) 3:31.28, 1’ Martin Hunal (CZE) at 9sec, 2; Jonathan Fumeaux (SUI) same time, 3. Also New Zealanders: Piet Bulling at 1:56, 27; Taylor Gunman at 6:26, 64; Scott Creighton same time, 66; Cameron Karwowski at 8:30, 74.
General Classification after 5 stages: Nicolas Baldo (FRa, Switzerland Jakroo) 16:19.44, 1; Rostollan at 3 sec, 2; Hunal at 7s, 3. Also: Bulling at 5:16, 38; Creighton at 8:19, 48; Karwowski at 8:27, 49; Gunman at 9:46, 51.
For further information contact:
IAN HEPENSTALL
Media Liaison, BikeNZ High Performance
Sports Media NZ Ltd
Today’s route from Bundoran to Buncrana in the north west of Ireland was earmarked as the most challenging and punishing stage in recent Rás history with five categorised climbs, including the category one backbreaking ascent of Mamore Gap, the steepest road climb in the country.
CAPTION: Scott Creighton leads a small bunch with Taylor Gunman (far left) on one of the big climbs on stage five of the An Post Ras Tour of Ireland today. Credit: Sportsfile.
Ironically the best of the BikeNZ-Pure Black Racing Under-23 team was the sprint specialist Piet Bulling (Invercargill) who managed his way over the climbs to finish in the second bunch 1min 56sec down on stage winner Thomas Rostollan (FRA, Aix En Provence) on a day when the major professional team asserted their authority.
It allowed compatriot Nicolas Baldo (Switzerland Jakroo) to take over the tour leader’s yellow jersey just three seconds clear of Rostollan.
Main kiwi hope Cameron Karwowski struggled today after some strong support work from Taylor Gunman and Scott Creighton, who went on to finish mid-pack, 6m 26s down with Karwowski two minutes further back.
Bulling has moved to the best placed of the team in 38th place on general classification, 5m16s down on the leader and ninth in the under-23 category.
There is no respite in tomorrow’s 134km sixth stage which comprises four tough climbs of category one and two class through to the fishing town of Killybegs on the north west coast.
Results, stage 5 Bundoran to Buncrana, 149km: Thomas Rostollan (FRA, Aix En Provence) 3:31.28, 1’ Martin Hunal (CZE) at 9sec, 2; Jonathan Fumeaux (SUI) same time, 3. Also New Zealanders: Piet Bulling at 1:56, 27; Taylor Gunman at 6:26, 64; Scott Creighton same time, 66; Cameron Karwowski at 8:30, 74.
General Classification after 5 stages: Nicolas Baldo (FRa, Switzerland Jakroo) 16:19.44, 1; Rostollan at 3 sec, 2; Hunal at 7s, 3. Also: Bulling at 5:16, 38; Creighton at 8:19, 48; Karwowski at 8:27, 49; Gunman at 9:46, 51.
For further information contact:
IAN HEPENSTALL
Media Liaison, BikeNZ High Performance
Sports Media NZ Ltd
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Hastings Sunday Ride
Leaving 8:00 am outside Rebel Sports Heretaunga Street Hastings
Long Ride : Omahu Road, Swamp Road , Dartmoor Road End of Seal and Return via Apley, Church, Meannee , Pakowhai - 70km
Short Ride - Omahu Road, Swamp, Pukeatpu return via Meannee 45km
Long Ride : Omahu Road, Swamp Road , Dartmoor Road End of Seal and Return via Apley, Church, Meannee , Pakowhai - 70km
Short Ride - Omahu Road, Swamp, Pukeatpu return via Meannee 45km
Saturday Racing, 26th May
Circuit: A-F Camp David RTN
G Blind Road RTN
Venue: Arohanui Centre
Race start time: 2:00 pm
Race Starter: Brett Hooker
Emergency Phone: 027 426 6895
G Blind Road RTN
Venue: Arohanui Centre
Race start time: 2:00 pm
Race Starter: Brett Hooker
Emergency Phone: 027 426 6895
Transponder Reminder
We have introduced a new sytem for timing and you must swipe your transponder before each race to ensure you are entered in the race-day database.
Transponders do not work while in the back pocket of your cycle jersey. If you wish your transponder to register your result, ensure that your tag is attached correctly to the front fork of your bicycle.
Transponders do not work while in the back pocket of your cycle jersey. If you wish your transponder to register your result, ensure that your tag is attached correctly to the front fork of your bicycle.
Ramblers Committee 2012/2013
Congratulations to the following Ramblers who are continuing on the committee, or who have joined committee for the year.
Your committee members are Gavin Bush (Chair), Brett Hooker (Deputy Chair), Mark Coombe (Treasurer), Su Daniel, Hilary Green, Adrienne Heney, Dean Hepburn, Craig Hill, Don Kennedy, Helen MacKenzie, Ken MacKenzie, Dylan Stewart and Dan Warren.
Many thanks to Rob Oliver for his time who has stepped off the committee, and thank you in anticipation to the incumbent committee.
Your committee members are Gavin Bush (Chair), Brett Hooker (Deputy Chair), Mark Coombe (Treasurer), Su Daniel, Hilary Green, Adrienne Heney, Dean Hepburn, Craig Hill, Don Kennedy, Helen MacKenzie, Ken MacKenzie, Dylan Stewart and Dan Warren.
Many thanks to Rob Oliver for his time who has stepped off the committee, and thank you in anticipation to the incumbent committee.
Ramblin’ On
Please send your articles, photographs, letters, thumbs up/down and other items to Editor Dave before 27 May. Dave’s email is davemarett@slingshot.co.nz
Ramblin’ On Goes Online
RCC is trialling our magazine in eBook format. Ramblin' On magazine will be available as an eBook as well as being published as usual in hard copy. Links to the eBook version of the next edition will be available on the RCC website and facebook page.
Triple T: Support Tama, T and Terry in the USO Bike Ride
Support our Ramblers Riders - T Taufale, Tama McGrath and Terry Papworth who are finalists in the Toyota Believe Scholarship. In order to be contenders for the $3000 scholarship, T, Terry and Tama must try to get as many votes as possible. For more information, copy and paste this link into your web-browser http://www.believe.co.nz/
You can go to this website for more information about the USO Bike Ride http://www.afolattalofa.co.nz
You can go to this website for more information about the USO Bike Ride http://www.afolattalofa.co.nz
Cyclocross Training
When: 9am, Sunday 3rd June
Where: EIT Carpark
This training is to assist riders in their preparation for the up-coming CXHB series, NZ series and National Champs. The session will run for approximately 2hrs and will include skills training, remount/dismount practice, race pace efforts and carrying methods.
Where: EIT Carpark
This training is to assist riders in their preparation for the up-coming CXHB series, NZ series and National Champs. The session will run for approximately 2hrs and will include skills training, remount/dismount practice, race pace efforts and carrying methods.
The Flying Scotsman – What is Graeme Obree Up To Now?
Graeme Obree, the Scottish cyclist, is building a bike dreamt up in the bath, designed on the back of a scrap of wallpaper, constructed in part from an old saucepan and put together on the kitchen tableon which he hopes to smash the world speed record and reach 100mph. For more details, go to the UK Telegraph.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/howaboutthat/9248769/The-100mph-bike-designed-in-the-bath-and-made-from-an-old-saucepan.html
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/howaboutthat/9248769/The-100mph-bike-designed-in-the-bath-and-made-from-an-old-saucepan.html
BikeNZ Licences
A number of members have either not received their BikeNZ licences or have received licences with incorrect details. If this has happened to you please send the details of the problem to Deb at info@ramblers.co.nz so that she can follow this up with BikeNZ on your behalf.
NZ Secondary Schools Championships
The dates for this event are 30th June for the time trial and 1st July for the road races. If you are interested in participating, please contact your school or the Event Organiser, Sandra Carter 021 477 686 or mscarter@xtra.co.nz
Entries close Monday 18th June 2012.
Entries close Monday 18th June 2012.
ClubKit
All the jerseys and skin suits have sold. The remaining items available are:
Medium Vest ($85)
Small Leg Warmers ($40)
Medium Leg Warmers ($40)
Shoe Covers ($30)
Caps ($20)
Drink Bottles ($5)
Medium Vest ($85)
Small Leg Warmers ($40)
Medium Leg Warmers ($40)
Shoe Covers ($30)
Caps ($20)
Drink Bottles ($5)
Upcoming Events
17th June: CX, Blackbarn, Havelock North
30th June: NZ Secondary Schools Indiviual Time Trials, Cambridge
1st July: NZ Secondary Schools Road Races, Cambridge
6th July: Ramblers Club Criterium, Marine Parade, Napier
6th – 8th July: Ride of Your Life Cycling Festival, Napier
8th July: Cyclocross National Championships, Napier
22nd July: CX, Roy’s Hill, Hastings
12th August: CX, Blackbarn, Havelock North
August: Reiker 2 Day Tour, Timaru
16th Septemeber: GIANT R4 Cycle Ride
22nd – 23rd September: R & R Sport Tour, Otago
2nd September: CX, Clearview Winery, Napier
16th September: CX, Chesterhope, Hastings
30th September: Novice Tour of Manawatu
5th – 7th October: Yunca Junior Tour, Invercargill
14th October: Tour of the Bay, Hastings
4th November: Ibis Bike The Lake
Stay safe, stay upright and keep ramblin’!
30th June: NZ Secondary Schools Indiviual Time Trials, Cambridge
1st July: NZ Secondary Schools Road Races, Cambridge
6th July: Ramblers Club Criterium, Marine Parade, Napier
6th – 8th July: Ride of Your Life Cycling Festival, Napier
8th July: Cyclocross National Championships, Napier
22nd July: CX, Roy’s Hill, Hastings
12th August: CX, Blackbarn, Havelock North
August: Reiker 2 Day Tour, Timaru
16th Septemeber: GIANT R4 Cycle Ride
22nd – 23rd September: R & R Sport Tour, Otago
2nd September: CX, Clearview Winery, Napier
16th September: CX, Chesterhope, Hastings
30th September: Novice Tour of Manawatu
5th – 7th October: Yunca Junior Tour, Invercargill
14th October: Tour of the Bay, Hastings
4th November: Ibis Bike The Lake
Stay safe, stay upright and keep ramblin’!
Here comes the sun, do de do de. And so on. - Ashleigh and Hannah
Monday we awoke to a beautiful day, which we spent murdering the most beautiful flowers once more. Still packing a sad from her consecutive late nights, which were her own fault, Ashleigh didn’t get on the bike aside from the 10km of commuter riding. Hannah went off on her own, and also came home with the groceries for the week, what a good girl she is. Tuesday proved another beautiful day, although a few dark clouds hung in the sky. As Murphy’s Law would have it, after sweating it out in rain jackets for several hours with no downpour, Ashleigh finally took hers off and got soaked. Brill. Post work we psyched ourselves up and battled through a session of 30 thirty sprints dispersed by box jumps. Any one coached by Ivar will understand the pain of such a session.
Wednesday was the second to last day ever in the flowers. Freedom was so close. Yet so far away. We got through the day planning how we would spend this unexpected income. It will certainly be the best spent money. Ever. Luckily the sunshine and the flowers kept our spirits high and we were soon off soaking up the sun, and working on the tan lines, for a few hours that evening.
GLORIOUS GLORIOUS FREEEEEDDDDDOOOOOOOOOM! Breathe it in! Of course, we choose to arise early today also to experience the tractor pulling show! They told us it was a competition between guys to see who could pull a tractor the farthest/ fastest. Haha funny joke, good one guys. Apparently that would be ridiculous here, who on earth would have a competition like that?? Ahhhh, in NZ we would? We had actually gotten up early to watch tractors in various weight categories pull things over various distances. The excitement! We could hardly contain ourselves, and left as soon as we got hungry; so not much time was spent there. But we did take some fun photos. After some extensive snacking, perhaps not a wise move, we went to light up the nifty 5km circuit we have found with some 5/10/15 efforts. By the time we picked ourselves up off the floor and showered it was dinner time.
Friday we were free again and decided to use our new found freedom by scoping out a new base circuit since there wasn’t much go go left in the tank. We may have ridden the hundy or so Ks on two coffees and a bakery stop.
We got to go to Friesland on Saturday for a national race. Mother Nature turned on yet another stunner day and I think we were the only ones not complaining about the heat. The people here just keep getting weirder. We had a bit of a giggle when we made comment about a gender check on one oft the riders, she pretty, ah, masculine, turns out its because she was in fact once a man.. that’s one way to get better results I suppose. The race was the old mistake and learning experience routine.
Sunday we lost 2 hours of our lives by going to see “The Dictator” at the cinema since the weather had packed in and was totally shitehause. We did meet some rowers who were chilling there before a race they had that afternoon. They weren’t eating because they had a weigh-in in an hours time, and the y enthusiastically told us that they lose a few kilos pre race day by consuming nothing but fruit and quark. Mmmmmm. Each to their own. In the highly unlikely event we aver take up a weight class sport, we’ll remember that.
And would you look at that
That’s us for another week.
Wednesday was the second to last day ever in the flowers. Freedom was so close. Yet so far away. We got through the day planning how we would spend this unexpected income. It will certainly be the best spent money. Ever. Luckily the sunshine and the flowers kept our spirits high and we were soon off soaking up the sun, and working on the tan lines, for a few hours that evening.
GLORIOUS GLORIOUS FREEEEEDDDDDOOOOOOOOOM! Breathe it in! Of course, we choose to arise early today also to experience the tractor pulling show! They told us it was a competition between guys to see who could pull a tractor the farthest/ fastest. Haha funny joke, good one guys. Apparently that would be ridiculous here, who on earth would have a competition like that?? Ahhhh, in NZ we would? We had actually gotten up early to watch tractors in various weight categories pull things over various distances. The excitement! We could hardly contain ourselves, and left as soon as we got hungry; so not much time was spent there. But we did take some fun photos. After some extensive snacking, perhaps not a wise move, we went to light up the nifty 5km circuit we have found with some 5/10/15 efforts. By the time we picked ourselves up off the floor and showered it was dinner time.
Friday we were free again and decided to use our new found freedom by scoping out a new base circuit since there wasn’t much go go left in the tank. We may have ridden the hundy or so Ks on two coffees and a bakery stop.
We got to go to Friesland on Saturday for a national race. Mother Nature turned on yet another stunner day and I think we were the only ones not complaining about the heat. The people here just keep getting weirder. We had a bit of a giggle when we made comment about a gender check on one oft the riders, she pretty, ah, masculine, turns out its because she was in fact once a man.. that’s one way to get better results I suppose. The race was the old mistake and learning experience routine.
Sunday we lost 2 hours of our lives by going to see “The Dictator” at the cinema since the weather had packed in and was totally shitehause. We did meet some rowers who were chilling there before a race they had that afternoon. They weren’t eating because they had a weigh-in in an hours time, and the y enthusiastically told us that they lose a few kilos pre race day by consuming nothing but fruit and quark. Mmmmmm. Each to their own. In the highly unlikely event we aver take up a weight class sport, we’ll remember that.
And would you look at that
That’s us for another week.
An Post Ras Tour of Ireland – NZ Wrap Stage 4
Southland cyclist Cameron Karwowski finished in the peloton to retain his challenge on the under-23 honours midway through the An Post Ras Tour of Ireland today.
Karwowski finished with the bunch in 17th place, nine seconds down on the winner in the challenging 135km fourth stage to Bundoran on the north-west coast of Ireland.
He leads the BikeNZ-Pure Black Racing national under-23 team although today’s expected benign stage proved anything but as the attacks were plenty from the gun, as Piet Bulling, Scott Creighton and Taylor Gunman covered the potential breaks.
Karwowski pushed hard for the break with 15kms remaining along with the yellow jersey of Pirmin Lang (SUI) and two other general classification contenders, as they chased down the solo break away in the New Zealander’s push for the lead in the under-23 honours.
The teams of the key challengers not in that break ramped up the chase with sufficient fury to split open the peloton, and they eventually reeled in the kiwi’s brave move. He tried again with 5km remaining but after expending all reserves had to be content to finish in the peloton.
Denmark’s Mark Pedersen took out the sprint from opening stage winner Marcin Bialoblocki although there is no change in the general classification with Lang leading but on the same time to British riders James Moss and Richard Handley and just six seconds separating the leading five riders.
Karwowski is in third place in the under-23 battle and 14th overall, 28 seconds from the yellow jersey with the remaining BikeNZ-PBR trio showing good strength to finish in the peloton and jump up the placings on general classification.
Meanwhile Auckland’s Dion Smith, injured in a crash on yesterday’s tough stage, has successfully undergone an operation after breaking his wrist and radius.
Tomorrow’s fifth stage is a 149kms to the far north town of Buncrana on the Inishowen peninsula with five climbs including a category one test 13kms from the finish.
Results, stage 4, 135km Westport to Burdoran: Mark Pedersen (DEN, Blue Water Racing) 2:55.36, 1; Marcin Bialoblocki (POL, Britain Giordana) same time, 2; Remi Sarreboubee (FRA, Aix en provence) at 2 sec, 3. Also New Zealanders: Cameron Karwowski at 9sec, 17; Piet Bulling at 15s, 17; Taylor Gunman same time, 33; Scott Creighton at 1:58, 73.
General classification after 4 stages: Pirmin Lang (SUI, Jakaroo) 12:47.45, 1; Richard Handley (GBR, Rapha Condor) st, 2; James Moss (GBR, Britain Giordana) same time, 3; Also: Karwowski at 28s, 14, Creighton at 2:24, 41; Bulling at 3:51, 52; Gunman st, 54.
Under-23 overall: Handley 12:47.45, 1; M Pedersen (BWC) at 19sec, 2 Karwowski at 28s, 3.
For further information contact:
IAN HEPENSTALL
Media Liaison, BikeNZ High Performance
Sports Media NZ Ltd
Karwowski finished with the bunch in 17th place, nine seconds down on the winner in the challenging 135km fourth stage to Bundoran on the north-west coast of Ireland.
He leads the BikeNZ-Pure Black Racing national under-23 team although today’s expected benign stage proved anything but as the attacks were plenty from the gun, as Piet Bulling, Scott Creighton and Taylor Gunman covered the potential breaks.
CAPTION: Taylor Gunman (North Harbour) and Piet Bulling (Invercargill) in action for the BikeNZ-PBR Under-23 team in the An Post Ras Tour of Ireland. Credit: Sportsfile.
Karwowski pushed hard for the break with 15kms remaining along with the yellow jersey of Pirmin Lang (SUI) and two other general classification contenders, as they chased down the solo break away in the New Zealander’s push for the lead in the under-23 honours.
The teams of the key challengers not in that break ramped up the chase with sufficient fury to split open the peloton, and they eventually reeled in the kiwi’s brave move. He tried again with 5km remaining but after expending all reserves had to be content to finish in the peloton.
Denmark’s Mark Pedersen took out the sprint from opening stage winner Marcin Bialoblocki although there is no change in the general classification with Lang leading but on the same time to British riders James Moss and Richard Handley and just six seconds separating the leading five riders.
Karwowski is in third place in the under-23 battle and 14th overall, 28 seconds from the yellow jersey with the remaining BikeNZ-PBR trio showing good strength to finish in the peloton and jump up the placings on general classification.
Meanwhile Auckland’s Dion Smith, injured in a crash on yesterday’s tough stage, has successfully undergone an operation after breaking his wrist and radius.
Tomorrow’s fifth stage is a 149kms to the far north town of Buncrana on the Inishowen peninsula with five climbs including a category one test 13kms from the finish.
Results, stage 4, 135km Westport to Burdoran: Mark Pedersen (DEN, Blue Water Racing) 2:55.36, 1; Marcin Bialoblocki (POL, Britain Giordana) same time, 2; Remi Sarreboubee (FRA, Aix en provence) at 2 sec, 3. Also New Zealanders: Cameron Karwowski at 9sec, 17; Piet Bulling at 15s, 17; Taylor Gunman same time, 33; Scott Creighton at 1:58, 73.
General classification after 4 stages: Pirmin Lang (SUI, Jakaroo) 12:47.45, 1; Richard Handley (GBR, Rapha Condor) st, 2; James Moss (GBR, Britain Giordana) same time, 3; Also: Karwowski at 28s, 14, Creighton at 2:24, 41; Bulling at 3:51, 52; Gunman st, 54.
Under-23 overall: Handley 12:47.45, 1; M Pedersen (BWC) at 19sec, 2 Karwowski at 28s, 3.
For further information contact:
IAN HEPENSTALL
Media Liaison, BikeNZ High Performance
Sports Media NZ Ltd
Has something been missing from your life? -Ashleigh and Hannah
Has something been missing from your life? Have you been feeling empty? Are you yearning for something you just cannot seem to find?? We have the answer; you have been having Ashleigh and Hannah blog withdrawals, but never fear! We are back in business.
We will be back to finish this soon, we have been distracted by the male swimmers at the European Championships..
Ok, you now have our full attention again.
Jokes, that was the semi-final, there are more semi-naked men for the finals now
Ok, where were we..
Monday was yet another day in the fields, although by now we could see the light. We had just three days to go.. We were begining to celebrate already. We finished the day with a beautiful base ride in the evening, concluding at a late night cafe where we enjoyed Hannahs’ last Hot Chocolate as an 18year old.
That night saw Secret Squirrel business as Ashleigh filled the bedroom, lounge and kitchen with balloons. They even has faces, everyone was at the party. She also ‘prepared’ a cake, if you count artistically arranging various cupcakes as cake preparing. Haha. There were of course also candles, a card, chocolate and presents. Oh! And how could we forget the home made JELLYTIP!!
Tuesday was of course filled with celebrations early morning. Then we went off high on ice cream and chocolate and cake into the flower fields once more. It was a somewhat shortened day when the Boss told us we could be done for the day when we reached a certain point in the flowers, needless to say we hit the NOS button and rocket through the work to finish in just 4 hours. Sweet deal. We even did some intervals before evening celebrations began. Aren’t we good! After a private bus trip we found ourselves at an Italian Pizzeria before welcoming a friend of Hannah’s fresh from Switzerland. Perfect timing on his behalf.
Wednesday was a bit more of a gentle day as we entertained our guest and recovered from what may have been a late night before. We got to play the role of the locals and toured the most beautiful road in Holland, the Belkmerweg, and of course the local coffee attractions. We then winged our way to Amsterdam (on the train, which funnily enough has a very similar affect to being on a boat for Hannah sometimes, entertaining for the rest of us at least).There was of course the tour of the touristy things followed by the shopping spree after our delightful pay package. It was a bit of a pathetic spree on the spending front, but we did enjoy trying everything on and parading around before making our selective purchases (from the bargain bin).
Thursday we had another day of recuperation; while Ashleigh tackled more of a particularly large assignment which she had done particularly little of up to this point. We cannot really recall how Han spent her day, it must have been very productive though and surely she made some kind of big step in her life that day. We also had the experience of the “Sand Hill Training”, never again. We went because then we could say that we had been and that we did not want to go again. That, and they also bribed us into giving it ago by saying we could go camel riding in exchange for our efforts. Who wouldn’t want to go run up and down a very big sand dune when a camel ride was on the cards? Haha. WE ARE GOING TO RIDE SOME CAMELS. Heck yeah!
Friday we awoke to the news that there was no more work for us! Very exciting, but then again it meant that we had to delete some of the ways we had spent our money in our heads, because we weren’t going to earn it. Training on Friday was harsh, we decided that after so much walking, running in the sand dunes and a few late nights the best thing to do would be a 3 hour base ride with a 15 second spring every 3 mins. Thanks Carl Paton for that one, you put ideas in Ivar’s head
We will be back to finish this soon, we have been distracted by the male swimmers at the European Championships..
Ok, you now have our full attention again.
Jokes, that was the semi-final, there are more semi-naked men for the finals now
Ok, where were we..
Monday was yet another day in the fields, although by now we could see the light. We had just three days to go.. We were begining to celebrate already. We finished the day with a beautiful base ride in the evening, concluding at a late night cafe where we enjoyed Hannahs’ last Hot Chocolate as an 18year old.
That night saw Secret Squirrel business as Ashleigh filled the bedroom, lounge and kitchen with balloons. They even has faces, everyone was at the party. She also ‘prepared’ a cake, if you count artistically arranging various cupcakes as cake preparing. Haha. There were of course also candles, a card, chocolate and presents. Oh! And how could we forget the home made JELLYTIP!!
Tuesday was of course filled with celebrations early morning. Then we went off high on ice cream and chocolate and cake into the flower fields once more. It was a somewhat shortened day when the Boss told us we could be done for the day when we reached a certain point in the flowers, needless to say we hit the NOS button and rocket through the work to finish in just 4 hours. Sweet deal. We even did some intervals before evening celebrations began. Aren’t we good! After a private bus trip we found ourselves at an Italian Pizzeria before welcoming a friend of Hannah’s fresh from Switzerland. Perfect timing on his behalf.
Wednesday was a bit more of a gentle day as we entertained our guest and recovered from what may have been a late night before. We got to play the role of the locals and toured the most beautiful road in Holland, the Belkmerweg, and of course the local coffee attractions. We then winged our way to Amsterdam (on the train, which funnily enough has a very similar affect to being on a boat for Hannah sometimes, entertaining for the rest of us at least).There was of course the tour of the touristy things followed by the shopping spree after our delightful pay package. It was a bit of a pathetic spree on the spending front, but we did enjoy trying everything on and parading around before making our selective purchases (from the bargain bin).
Thursday we had another day of recuperation; while Ashleigh tackled more of a particularly large assignment which she had done particularly little of up to this point. We cannot really recall how Han spent her day, it must have been very productive though and surely she made some kind of big step in her life that day. We also had the experience of the “Sand Hill Training”, never again. We went because then we could say that we had been and that we did not want to go again. That, and they also bribed us into giving it ago by saying we could go camel riding in exchange for our efforts. Who wouldn’t want to go run up and down a very big sand dune when a camel ride was on the cards? Haha. WE ARE GOING TO RIDE SOME CAMELS. Heck yeah!
Friday we awoke to the news that there was no more work for us! Very exciting, but then again it meant that we had to delete some of the ways we had spent our money in our heads, because we weren’t going to earn it. Training on Friday was harsh, we decided that after so much walking, running in the sand dunes and a few late nights the best thing to do would be a 3 hour base ride with a 15 second spring every 3 mins. Thanks Carl Paton for that one, you put ideas in Ivar’s head
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
An Post Ras Tour of Ireland – Stage 3 NZ Wrap
New Zealand cyclist Cameron Karwowski was pipped for a place on the podium in a frantic final sprint on a dramatic stage three of the An Post Ras Tour of Ireland today.
Karwowski, supported strongly by his BikeNZ-Pure Black Racing Under-23 teammates today in the lumpy 144km stage to Westport, positioned himself well for the sprint, finishing in fourth place in a photo finish.
It was a day of drama with a number of bad crashes, including one which ended the tour for teenage Auckland rider Dion Smith who broke his arm and wrist. He will spend the night in Gallway Hospital before surgery tomorrow.
After riding patiently at the back of the peloton and when they were eventually reunited, The An Post Sean Kelly riders attacked aggressively as a group with seven kilometres to go. Karwowski responded in the elite group of 28 riders and positioned himself well for the final sprint.
“It was a fantastic performance from Cameron and another outstanding effort from the team to support him on what was a demanding day,” said coach Dan Healey. “The climbs were difficult and there were so many bad crashes. It is a real shame for Dion who was really enjoying a strong tour.”
Karwowski moved to second place on the overall classification for under-23 riders, and is in 12th place on overall classification, 28 seconds down on leader Pirman Lang (Switzerland) who finished in the peloton to retain the yellow jersey despite trialling the leaders by over two minutes at one point.
Of the other BikeNZ-PBR riders, Scott Creighton was 35th finishing in the second bunch seven seconds behind the leading group after a strong supporting role. Piet Bulling and Taylor Gunman were in the pack 3m17s down with the team reduced to four riders.
Today’s 145 kilometre stage from Gort to Westport proved testing with three late climbs in quick succession and the first category one climb of the eight day event.
Tomorrow’s fourth stage is mostly flat over 135km to Bundoran.
Results, An Post Ras Tour of Ireland, stage 3 Gort to Westport, 144km: Gediminas(LTU, An Post Sean Kelly) 3:09.03, 1; Marcin Bialoblocki (POL, Britain Giordana) same time, 2; Roy Eefting (NED, Koga) st, 3; Cameron Karwowski (NZL) 4. Also New Zealanders: Scott Creighton at 7 secs, 35; Piet Bulling at 3:17, 83; Taylor Gunman st, 85.
General classification after 3 stages: Pirmin Lang (SUI) 9:52.00, 1; James Moss (GBR) same time, 2; Richard Handley (GBR) st, 3. Also: Karwowski at 28s, 12, Creighton at 35s, 40; Bulling at 3:45, 69; Gunman st, 70.
Under-23 overall: Handley 9:52.00, 1; Karwowski at 28s, 2; M Pedersen (BWC) st, 3.
For further information contact:
IAN HEPENSTALL
Media Liaison, BikeNZ High Performance
Sports Media NZ Ltd
Karwowski, supported strongly by his BikeNZ-Pure Black Racing Under-23 teammates today in the lumpy 144km stage to Westport, positioned himself well for the sprint, finishing in fourth place in a photo finish.
It was a day of drama with a number of bad crashes, including one which ended the tour for teenage Auckland rider Dion Smith who broke his arm and wrist. He will spend the night in Gallway Hospital before surgery tomorrow.
CAPTION: Auckland’s Dion Smith riding in the bunch before he was caught in a crash on the An Post Ras Tour of Ireland. (Credit: Sportsfile.)
Reigning champion Gediminas Bagdonas (An Post Sean Kelly Team) claimed the win just ahead of opening stage winner Marcin Bialoblocki (Britain Girodana) after he recovered from a crash and with the help of teammates, rode back on to the peloton over the final 40kms.After riding patiently at the back of the peloton and when they were eventually reunited, The An Post Sean Kelly riders attacked aggressively as a group with seven kilometres to go. Karwowski responded in the elite group of 28 riders and positioned himself well for the final sprint.
“It was a fantastic performance from Cameron and another outstanding effort from the team to support him on what was a demanding day,” said coach Dan Healey. “The climbs were difficult and there were so many bad crashes. It is a real shame for Dion who was really enjoying a strong tour.”
Karwowski moved to second place on the overall classification for under-23 riders, and is in 12th place on overall classification, 28 seconds down on leader Pirman Lang (Switzerland) who finished in the peloton to retain the yellow jersey despite trialling the leaders by over two minutes at one point.
Of the other BikeNZ-PBR riders, Scott Creighton was 35th finishing in the second bunch seven seconds behind the leading group after a strong supporting role. Piet Bulling and Taylor Gunman were in the pack 3m17s down with the team reduced to four riders.
Today’s 145 kilometre stage from Gort to Westport proved testing with three late climbs in quick succession and the first category one climb of the eight day event.
Tomorrow’s fourth stage is mostly flat over 135km to Bundoran.
Results, An Post Ras Tour of Ireland, stage 3 Gort to Westport, 144km: Gediminas(LTU, An Post Sean Kelly) 3:09.03, 1; Marcin Bialoblocki (POL, Britain Giordana) same time, 2; Roy Eefting (NED, Koga) st, 3; Cameron Karwowski (NZL) 4. Also New Zealanders: Scott Creighton at 7 secs, 35; Piet Bulling at 3:17, 83; Taylor Gunman st, 85.
General classification after 3 stages: Pirmin Lang (SUI) 9:52.00, 1; James Moss (GBR) same time, 2; Richard Handley (GBR) st, 3. Also: Karwowski at 28s, 12, Creighton at 35s, 40; Bulling at 3:45, 69; Gunman st, 70.
Under-23 overall: Handley 9:52.00, 1; Karwowski at 28s, 2; M Pedersen (BWC) st, 3.
For further information contact:
IAN HEPENSTALL
Media Liaison, BikeNZ High Performance
Sports Media NZ Ltd
Olympic cyclist joins Orica-GreenEdge team
Olympic-bound cyclist Sam Bewley has joined Orica-GreenEDGE upon the departure of Australian icon, Robbie McEwen.
Bewley, 24, will represent New Zealand in the team pursuit in the 2012 London Olympics before switching his focus 100 percent to a road career. He raced for two years with RadioShack and spent the first half of this season focussing on his track racing with the BikeNZ track team.
"I'm excited to be part of an Australian team," said Bewley. "I'm not Australian of course, but New Zealand and Australia are pretty united when it comes to sport unless we're competing against one another. Even then, it's a friendly rivalry. I'm really happy to be part of a team from the Southern Hemisphere that's racing in Europe."
Bewley has wasted no time in beginning his career with the team, making his debut tonight (NZ time) in the Bayern Rundfahrt in Germany. He returns to the track in the build-up to the Olympics before rejoining the team for additional road racing in August.
"We weren't able to sign Sam until Robbie retired because we were maxed out on numbers," explained Sports Director Matt White. "This ended up working out well for both Sam and the team because of Sam's track schedule. He has a lot of potential on the road when he's able to fully concentrate on road racing, and we're looking forward to helping him develop his complete potential. We've signed him for this and the next season, and while we won't see him much this year, he'll be with us full-time on the road in 2013."
Bewley calls a bronze medal in the team pursuit at the 2008 Beijing Olympics his career highlight.
"Most of my highlights are on the track as that's where I have put my energy," Bewley said.
"The Olympic medal in Beijing stands out the most. I haven't gotten a real highlight on the road yet, but I'm happy to join a team where I think that's a real possibility."
Without much road racing in his legs, Bewley expects Bayern Rundfahrt to be a personal challenge.
"It's going to be a shock to the system racing at this level," he said. "I'm here to get some racing in my legs and make a good impression to my new teammates and staff. I'll work as hard as I can for the team. We have some strong riders here on the hunt for stage wins. I'll support their goals wherever I can."
Bewley will rejoin the BikeNZ track team when they go into their final track preparation camp later next month.
For further information contact:
IAN HEPENSTALL
Media Liaison, BikeNZ High Performance
Sports Media NZ Ltd
Bewley, 24, will represent New Zealand in the team pursuit in the 2012 London Olympics before switching his focus 100 percent to a road career. He raced for two years with RadioShack and spent the first half of this season focussing on his track racing with the BikeNZ track team.
"I'm excited to be part of an Australian team," said Bewley. "I'm not Australian of course, but New Zealand and Australia are pretty united when it comes to sport unless we're competing against one another. Even then, it's a friendly rivalry. I'm really happy to be part of a team from the Southern Hemisphere that's racing in Europe."
Bewley has wasted no time in beginning his career with the team, making his debut tonight (NZ time) in the Bayern Rundfahrt in Germany. He returns to the track in the build-up to the Olympics before rejoining the team for additional road racing in August.
"We weren't able to sign Sam until Robbie retired because we were maxed out on numbers," explained Sports Director Matt White. "This ended up working out well for both Sam and the team because of Sam's track schedule. He has a lot of potential on the road when he's able to fully concentrate on road racing, and we're looking forward to helping him develop his complete potential. We've signed him for this and the next season, and while we won't see him much this year, he'll be with us full-time on the road in 2013."
Bewley calls a bronze medal in the team pursuit at the 2008 Beijing Olympics his career highlight.
"Most of my highlights are on the track as that's where I have put my energy," Bewley said.
"The Olympic medal in Beijing stands out the most. I haven't gotten a real highlight on the road yet, but I'm happy to join a team where I think that's a real possibility."
Without much road racing in his legs, Bewley expects Bayern Rundfahrt to be a personal challenge.
"It's going to be a shock to the system racing at this level," he said. "I'm here to get some racing in my legs and make a good impression to my new teammates and staff. I'll work as hard as I can for the team. We have some strong riders here on the hunt for stage wins. I'll support their goals wherever I can."
Bewley will rejoin the BikeNZ track team when they go into their final track preparation camp later next month.
For further information contact:
IAN HEPENSTALL
Media Liaison, BikeNZ High Performance
Sports Media NZ Ltd
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
An Post Ras Tour of Ireland - Stage two wrap
New Zealand riders finished in the peloton as the break got away on the second stage of the An Post Ras Tour of Ireland today.
The BikeNZ-Pure Black Racing Under-23 national team all featured in the peloton in the 158km stage from Kilkenny to the west coast in Gort, which featured three category climbs.
CAPTION: Piet Bulling shares the early lead in the peloton on stage two of the An Post Ras Tour of Ireland today. Photo credit: Sportsfile.
A seven-strong break went clear at the 50km mark and worked their way to three minutes before the peloton sprang into life. But they left their move too late, closing to within 28 seconds of the leading seven, with Switzerland’s Pirmin Lang taking the sprint and the leader’s yellow jersey.
Cameron Karwowski and Piet Bulling led the way for the New Zealanders at the sharp end of the bunch sprint with Taylor Gunman, Dion Smith and Scott Creighton also safely in the 60-strong peloton.
Karwowski and Bulling are 21st and 22nd respectively on general classification at 28 seconds down on Lang, and they are fifth and sixth respectively in the under-23 competition.
“The boys rode their guts out today and really rode well as a unit,” said coach Dan Healey. “The attacks came from the gun and our guys did a great job covering the breaks, and taking much of the responsibility to do so.
“The plan was to send someone up the road on the first decisive climb at 50km before we could execute, the break crept off the front.
“The team looked after eachother well and worked so hard but for no tangible reward in the results.”
Tomorrow’s third stage is 145kms from Gort to Westport with three categorised climbs including the category one climb at Maumtrasna 40kms from the finish.
The BikeNZ-PBR team is currently eighth in the team classification.
Results, stage 2, An Post Ras, 158km Kilkenny to Gort: Pirmin Lang (SUI) 3:33.47, 1; Dale Appelby (Britain East) same time, 2; James Moss (GBR Giordara) same time, 3. Also New Zelaanders: Cameron Karwowski at 28s, 17; Piet Bulling same time, 18; Taylor Gunman st, 37; Dion Smith st, 41, Scott Creighton st, 56.
General classification after two stage: Lang 6:2.57, 1; Appleby same time, 2; Moss same time, 3. New Zealanders: Karwowski at 28s, 21; Bulling same time 22; Smith st, 38; Gunman st, 43; Creighton st, 64.
For further information contact:
IAN HEPENSTALL
Media Liaison, BikeNZ High Performance
Sports Media NZ Ltd
Jeremy Vennell Most aggressive Rider Tour of California
Robert Gesink (Rabobank) may have won the Tour but Ramblers member Jeremey Vennel (Bissell Pro Racing) having a great year took the Exergy Most Aggressive Jersey; Kiwis Josh Atkins and George Bennett riding with Lance Armstrongs Bontrager Livestrong development squad also featured during the stages.
exerpt from http://www.amgentourofcalifornia.com/news/press/Robert-Gesink-of-Rabobank-Cycling-Team-wins-2012-Amgen-Tour-of-California---RadioShack-Nissan-Trek-wraps-up-Team-Competition.html
"Meanwhile, RadioShack-Nissan-Trek took the overall team competition; Sagan won the Visit California Sprint Jersey; Canada's Sebastian Salas of team Optum Powered by Kelly Benefit Strategies won the Nissan King of the Mountain Jersey; the Netherlands' Wilco Kelderman of Rabobank won the Rabobank Best Young Rider Jersey; New Zealand's Jeremy Vennell of Bissell Pro Cycling won the Exergy Most Aggressive Jersey; while Australian Robbie McEwen, who announced earlier this year that the 2012 Amgen Tour of California would be his last professional race, won the Amgen Breakaway from Cancer® Most Courageous Rider Jersey."
exerpt from http://www.amgentourofcalifornia.com/news/press/Robert-Gesink-of-Rabobank-Cycling-Team-wins-2012-Amgen-Tour-of-California---RadioShack-Nissan-Trek-wraps-up-Team-Competition.html
"Meanwhile, RadioShack-Nissan-Trek took the overall team competition; Sagan won the Visit California Sprint Jersey; Canada's Sebastian Salas of team Optum Powered by Kelly Benefit Strategies won the Nissan King of the Mountain Jersey; the Netherlands' Wilco Kelderman of Rabobank won the Rabobank Best Young Rider Jersey; New Zealand's Jeremy Vennell of Bissell Pro Cycling won the Exergy Most Aggressive Jersey; while Australian Robbie McEwen, who announced earlier this year that the 2012 Amgen Tour of California would be his last professional race, won the Amgen Breakaway from Cancer® Most Courageous Rider Jersey."
Monday, May 21, 2012
Olympian on podium in European road time trial. (Westley 4th)
Olympic cyclist Aaron Gate has finished third in the individual time trial on the fourth stage of the Fleche du Sud in Luxembourg today.
He pipped fellow London Olympic track teammate Westley Gough for the final place on the podium after a strong performance in the 14.88km time trial in the UCI Europe Tour event.
Gate clocked 21:28 to be 26 seconds behind the winner, local rider Bob Jungels, riding for the Leopard Trek team. The kiwi was only 38/100ths of a second from second placed Adam Phelan (Drapac) while Gough was timed at 21:39 in fourth.
New Zealand’s Olympic endurance track team have begun their track racing phase in Europe in preparations for London with coach Tim Carswell satisfied with the performances.
“This is just the second stage race of this European racing block and all the guys are finding their road form after the World Track Championship in Australia,” Carswell said.
“Seeing results like this is encouraging and all a step in the right direction for the Olympics.
“Competing on the road in Europe is always challenging with strong fields in almost all races at this level.”
Today’s time trial course from Tetange to Rumelange was challenging with two steep climbs. Of the other New Zealanders in the BikeNZ squad, omnium rider Shane Archbold was 17th, Myron Simpson 25th and Alex Frame 35th while Marc Ryan withdrew earlier in the tour suffering from the flu.
Jungels is the leader on overall classification going in the final stage with Gough the best placed of the New Zealanders in 11th overall. The Luxembourg rider won the 2010 Junior World Time Trial and has been in outstanding form this year including second in the Nations Cup at the La Cote Picarde.
The Fleche du Sud is a five day stage race with previous winners including pro tour stars Andy Schleck (LUX) in 2004 and Geraint Thomas (GBR) in 2006.
Results, Fleche de Sud, Luxembourg, stage 3 time trial 14.88km: Bob Jungels (LUX) 21.02, 1; Adam Phelan (AUS) at 25s, 2; Aaron Gate (NZL) at 26s, 3. Also New Zealanders: Westley Gough at 37s, 4; Shane Archbold at 1:13, 17; Myron Simpson at 1:22, 25; Alex Frame at 1:38, 35.
For further information contact:
IAN HEPENSTALL
Media Liaison, BikeNZ High Performance
Sports Media NZ Ltd
CAPTION: Aaron Gate
He pipped fellow London Olympic track teammate Westley Gough for the final place on the podium after a strong performance in the 14.88km time trial in the UCI Europe Tour event.
Gate clocked 21:28 to be 26 seconds behind the winner, local rider Bob Jungels, riding for the Leopard Trek team. The kiwi was only 38/100ths of a second from second placed Adam Phelan (Drapac) while Gough was timed at 21:39 in fourth.
New Zealand’s Olympic endurance track team have begun their track racing phase in Europe in preparations for London with coach Tim Carswell satisfied with the performances.
“This is just the second stage race of this European racing block and all the guys are finding their road form after the World Track Championship in Australia,” Carswell said.
“Seeing results like this is encouraging and all a step in the right direction for the Olympics.
“Competing on the road in Europe is always challenging with strong fields in almost all races at this level.”
Today’s time trial course from Tetange to Rumelange was challenging with two steep climbs. Of the other New Zealanders in the BikeNZ squad, omnium rider Shane Archbold was 17th, Myron Simpson 25th and Alex Frame 35th while Marc Ryan withdrew earlier in the tour suffering from the flu.
Jungels is the leader on overall classification going in the final stage with Gough the best placed of the New Zealanders in 11th overall. The Luxembourg rider won the 2010 Junior World Time Trial and has been in outstanding form this year including second in the Nations Cup at the La Cote Picarde.
The Fleche du Sud is a five day stage race with previous winners including pro tour stars Andy Schleck (LUX) in 2004 and Geraint Thomas (GBR) in 2006.
Results, Fleche de Sud, Luxembourg, stage 3 time trial 14.88km: Bob Jungels (LUX) 21.02, 1; Adam Phelan (AUS) at 25s, 2; Aaron Gate (NZL) at 26s, 3. Also New Zealanders: Westley Gough at 37s, 4; Shane Archbold at 1:13, 17; Myron Simpson at 1:22, 25; Alex Frame at 1:38, 35.
For further information contact:
IAN HEPENSTALL
Media Liaison, BikeNZ High Performance
Sports Media NZ Ltd
Youthful line-up tackle 60th Ras Tour of Ireland
With an average age under 20 years, a youthful BikeNZ-Pure Black Racing team will take on their ultimate test that will sort the men from the boys in the An Post Ras Tour of Ireland starting on Sunday.
The five-strong group will take on 34 teams of hardened professionals and promising amateurs in the eight day tour covering 1168kms and 28 categorised climbs to the north and west of Ireland to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the race.
The BikeNZ-Pure Black Racing team is Cameron Karwowski, Alex Frame, Taylor Gunman, Scott Creighton and Dion Smith.
New Zealand has enjoyed some success over the last three years in the event with Myron Simpson winning a stage, Aaron Gate taking the under-23 honours and Shane Archbold first on points in 2011.
It is a much younger group just starting out on their international cycling lives that will tackle a tour that includes four former race winners including last year’s champion Gediminas Bagdonas (LTU) who will again ride for the An Post Sean Kelly Team.
The five-strong group will take on 34 teams of hardened professionals and promising amateurs in the eight day tour covering 1168kms and 28 categorised climbs to the north and west of Ireland to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the race.
The BikeNZ-Pure Black Racing team is Cameron Karwowski, Alex Frame, Taylor Gunman, Scott Creighton and Dion Smith.
New Zealand has enjoyed some success over the last three years in the event with Myron Simpson winning a stage, Aaron Gate taking the under-23 honours and Shane Archbold first on points in 2011.
It is a much younger group just starting out on their international cycling lives that will tackle a tour that includes four former race winners including last year’s champion Gediminas Bagdonas (LTU) who will again ride for the An Post Sean Kelly Team.
Caption: Cameron Karwowski in action in a Nations Cup Under-23 race in Europe. Credit: BikeNZ
Southland-based Cameron Karwowski is the only rider back from last year’s BikeNZ line-up and comes in with real expectation.
“It is very similar to the Tour of Southland at home,” Karwowski said. “It’s my second time riding this tour and I hope with my current form and experience from the race that I can pull off a stage win.
“I will be keeping my eye on the under-23 jersey too.”
Twenty-one year old Taylor Gunman said the group are motivated to complete their European campaign in style.
“It would be great to have a good run at the Tour of Ireland as our last race for the block. A result will be a great way to finish things off and show that a programme like this can really work.”
The 2.2 category rated Tour has attracted a number of international teams alongside New Zealand including teams from Denmark, Norway, Taiwan, Czech Republic, Netherlands, Switzerland, France, German as well as a number of British and Irish teams.
As well as Bagdonas there are a number of strong international riders including three other former winners, while hopes of a local triumph are high from the likes of Martyn Irvine, who will represent Ireland in the omnium at the London Olympics.
Race director Dermot Dignam said the course is one of the toughest in many years.
“It is a route that is probably leaning more towards the climber than the all rounder,” said Dignam. "There is something tough in store every single day.”
The action begins on Sunday (local time) with a 147 km stage from Dunboyne to Kilkenny, the southern-most part of this year’s race.
The tour stages are:
Stage 1, Sunday May 20th: Dunboyne – Kilkenny, 147kms
Stage 2, Monday May 21st: Kilkenny – Gort, 158kms
Stage 3, Tuesday May 22nd: Gort – Westport, 145kms
Stage 4, Wednesday May 23rd: Westport – Bundoran, 135kms
Stage 5, Thursday May 24th: Bundoran – Buncrana, 149kms
Stage 6, Friday May 25th: Buncrana – Killybegs, 134kms
Stage 7, Saturday May 26th: Donegal - Cootehill, 161kms
Stage 8, Sunday May 27th: Cootehill – Skerries, 139kms
For further information contact:
IAN HEPENSTALL
Media Liaison, BikeNZ High Performance
Sports Media NZ Ltd
Karwowski leads NZ under-23 team home in Ras Tour of Ireland opener
The New Zealand-Pure Black Racing cycling team all finished safely in the peloton on the opening stage of the An Post Ras Tour of Ireland today.
Poland’s Martin Bialoblocki (Britain Gordana Racing) edged out Denmark’s Jacob Nielsen (Denmark Blue Water) in the sprint finish after a late four-strong breakaway in the 147km opening stage from Dunboyne near Dublin south to Kilkenny with three categorised climbs.
There were three breaks during the mostly flat stage but none managed to put any serious time into the 100-strong peloton until a group of four went clear by 30 seconds with just 10kms remaining. While the peloton roared into life the quartet managed to hang on as Marcin Bialoblocki (Poland, Britain Giordana) took out the sprint with the pack just four seconds behind.
Southland’s Cameron Karwowski positioned himself well to be fourth across the line in the bunch sprint and eighth on the stage, with fellow Southlander Piet Bulling 13th and the rest of the BikeNZ-PBR under-23 team all safely home in the peloton.
“I wasn’t expecting the break to get away, but when we did I tried to save my legs and thankfully I took the win,” said Bialoblocki. “I’ll try to keep the yellow jersey now but it will be very hard with another seven days of racing ahead.”
Tomorrow’s second of eight stages is 158kms west to Gort near Galway, a mostly flat stage with one categorised climb on a stage that could present a breakaway opportunity.
Results, An Post Ras, stage 1, 147km Dunboyne to Kelkenny: Marcin Bialoblocki (POL, Britain Giordana) 3:09.04, 1; Jacob Nielsen (DEN, Denmark Blue Water) same time, 2; Nicolas Baldo (FRA, Switzerland Atlas) at 2sec, 3. Also New Zealanders: Cameron Karwowski at 6sec, 8; Piet Bulling same time, 13; Dion Smith st, 47; Taylor Gunman st, 56; Scott Creighton st, 88.
For further information contact:
IAN HEPENSTALL
Media Liaison, BikeNZ High Performance
Sports Media NZ Ltd
CAPTION: Poland’s Marcin Bialoblocki celebrates the opening stage win in the An Post Ras Tour of Ireland at Kilkenny today.
Poland’s Martin Bialoblocki (Britain Gordana Racing) edged out Denmark’s Jacob Nielsen (Denmark Blue Water) in the sprint finish after a late four-strong breakaway in the 147km opening stage from Dunboyne near Dublin south to Kilkenny with three categorised climbs.
There were three breaks during the mostly flat stage but none managed to put any serious time into the 100-strong peloton until a group of four went clear by 30 seconds with just 10kms remaining. While the peloton roared into life the quartet managed to hang on as Marcin Bialoblocki (Poland, Britain Giordana) took out the sprint with the pack just four seconds behind.
Southland’s Cameron Karwowski positioned himself well to be fourth across the line in the bunch sprint and eighth on the stage, with fellow Southlander Piet Bulling 13th and the rest of the BikeNZ-PBR under-23 team all safely home in the peloton.
“I wasn’t expecting the break to get away, but when we did I tried to save my legs and thankfully I took the win,” said Bialoblocki. “I’ll try to keep the yellow jersey now but it will be very hard with another seven days of racing ahead.”
Tomorrow’s second of eight stages is 158kms west to Gort near Galway, a mostly flat stage with one categorised climb on a stage that could present a breakaway opportunity.
Results, An Post Ras, stage 1, 147km Dunboyne to Kelkenny: Marcin Bialoblocki (POL, Britain Giordana) 3:09.04, 1; Jacob Nielsen (DEN, Denmark Blue Water) same time, 2; Nicolas Baldo (FRA, Switzerland Atlas) at 2sec, 3. Also New Zealanders: Cameron Karwowski at 6sec, 8; Piet Bulling same time, 13; Dion Smith st, 47; Taylor Gunman st, 56; Scott Creighton st, 88.
For further information contact:
IAN HEPENSTALL
Media Liaison, BikeNZ High Performance
Sports Media NZ Ltd
Friday, May 18, 2012
Hastings Sunday Ride May 20th
Leaving Outside Rebel Sport Heretaunga Street East 8:00am
Short Ride - Kahuranakei and Return 50km
Long Ride - Kahuranakei and Return via Tuki or Capm David depending on wind (Kellys etc) 70 - 90 km
Short Ride - Kahuranakei and Return 50km
Long Ride - Kahuranakei and Return via Tuki or Capm David depending on wind (Kellys etc) 70 - 90 km
Junior riders head offshore in search of world success at home
While most cycling attention is on the London Olympics, a group of up-and-coming talent is leaving no stone unturned to reach the top of the world.
The 16-strong BikeNZ junior track cycling team heads overseas in the coming weeks to prepare for the UCI World Championships to be held on home territory in Invercargill on 22-26 August.
The championships at the Southland Velodrome will be the biggest international cycling event held in New Zealand since it hosted the junior worlds in Wanganui 30 years ago.
Many of this team will form a key part of BikeNZ’s track programme looking ahead to the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro and beyond.
“Right now our primary focus is on London of course, but in behind this is the junior track championships which are not only a massive opportunity to showcase our sport in New Zealand but also a hugely important building block for our next echelon of riders,” said BikeNZ High Performance Director, Mark Elliott.
“They have the opportunity to not only achieve international success at the highest level for their age, but to put their hands up as we prepare towards the 2016 Olympics. Those of them with aspirations of developing professional careers on the road will realise the proven pathway is often out of successful endurance track programmes.”
The full squad completed a successful training camp in Invercargill last month, but national junior coach Ross Machejefski said the approaching winter months made it important to head overseas to gain a solid preparation if the riders are to maximize their opportunities at the world championships.
“In recent times the championships have been mostly in Europe and we have travelled early to get our final preparation,” Machejefski said.
“It’s doubly important to get that preparation with the event in our own country and if we want optimal performances in Invercargill.”
Even with a six-figure investment from BikeNZ, the squad have had to find approximately $7000 each for the training phase.
The male endurance group heads to Wisconsin next month for an initial three week training block with some racing, which has been set up with the help of 2009 world champion Hayden Godfrey.
“Hayden had spent a lot of time in that area during his career and has great contacts there. He has not only helped set-up racing for us and key contacts, but he has agreed to travel with us. His cycling knowledge will be invaluable and a tremendous boost for the squad.”
The female endurance group will hold a weeklong camp at Invercargill in early July before flying out to the USA where they will meet up with the male team to be based at Kutztown in Pennsylvania for a month of training and racing.
“It’s a favourite base for New Zealand cyclists and the women’s Olympic team will be using the town for their build-up. The riding is great there, and it is a hub for a lot of outdoor velodrome racing.”
They return home at the end of July for a week before a final two week camp at Invercargill ahead of the championships.
The sprint squad will join the elite riders Natasha Hansen and Katie Schofield at a camp in Invercargill over Queens Birthday.
Aucklander Paige Paterson will join the elite women in the USA for training and racing in June before returning to join the rest of the sprint squad who will prepare in a two week camp at Rockhampton, Queensland.
They then join up with the full squad for the final preparation camp.
“It’s a big campaign and we have received fantastic support from the families of all riders. It will not only be vital to achieving the best possible performances, it is going to be a tremendous experience for them all.”
Female endurance: Cassie Cameron (Wanganui), Alysha Keith (Dunedin), Racquel Sheath (Auckland), Sophie Williamson (Alexandra), Georgina Wilson (North Harbour).
Female sprint: Kate Dunlevey (Invercargill), Paige Patterson (Auckland), Victoria Steel (Christchurch).
Male endurance: Liam Aitcheson (Alexandra), Tom Beadle (Invercargill), Tayla Harrison (Christchurch), Dylan Kennett (Waimate), Hayden McCormick (Te Awamutu), Hamish Schreurs (Christchurch).
Men’s sprint: Jeremy Presbury (Invercargill), Zach Williams (Auckland).
Staff: Ross Machejefski (head coach), Mark Lucas (female endurance coach), John Rastrick (sprint coach), John Green (team manager), Lynnette Murphy (track manager).
For further information contact:
IAN HEPENSTALL
Media Liaison, BikeNZ High Performance
Sports Media NZ Ltd
The 16-strong BikeNZ junior track cycling team heads overseas in the coming weeks to prepare for the UCI World Championships to be held on home territory in Invercargill on 22-26 August.
The championships at the Southland Velodrome will be the biggest international cycling event held in New Zealand since it hosted the junior worlds in Wanganui 30 years ago.
Many of this team will form a key part of BikeNZ’s track programme looking ahead to the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro and beyond.
“Right now our primary focus is on London of course, but in behind this is the junior track championships which are not only a massive opportunity to showcase our sport in New Zealand but also a hugely important building block for our next echelon of riders,” said BikeNZ High Performance Director, Mark Elliott.
“They have the opportunity to not only achieve international success at the highest level for their age, but to put their hands up as we prepare towards the 2016 Olympics. Those of them with aspirations of developing professional careers on the road will realise the proven pathway is often out of successful endurance track programmes.”
The full squad completed a successful training camp in Invercargill last month, but national junior coach Ross Machejefski said the approaching winter months made it important to head overseas to gain a solid preparation if the riders are to maximize their opportunities at the world championships.
“In recent times the championships have been mostly in Europe and we have travelled early to get our final preparation,” Machejefski said.
“It’s doubly important to get that preparation with the event in our own country and if we want optimal performances in Invercargill.”
Even with a six-figure investment from BikeNZ, the squad have had to find approximately $7000 each for the training phase.
The male endurance group heads to Wisconsin next month for an initial three week training block with some racing, which has been set up with the help of 2009 world champion Hayden Godfrey.
“Hayden had spent a lot of time in that area during his career and has great contacts there. He has not only helped set-up racing for us and key contacts, but he has agreed to travel with us. His cycling knowledge will be invaluable and a tremendous boost for the squad.”
The female endurance group will hold a weeklong camp at Invercargill in early July before flying out to the USA where they will meet up with the male team to be based at Kutztown in Pennsylvania for a month of training and racing.
“It’s a favourite base for New Zealand cyclists and the women’s Olympic team will be using the town for their build-up. The riding is great there, and it is a hub for a lot of outdoor velodrome racing.”
They return home at the end of July for a week before a final two week camp at Invercargill ahead of the championships.
The sprint squad will join the elite riders Natasha Hansen and Katie Schofield at a camp in Invercargill over Queens Birthday.
Aucklander Paige Paterson will join the elite women in the USA for training and racing in June before returning to join the rest of the sprint squad who will prepare in a two week camp at Rockhampton, Queensland.
They then join up with the full squad for the final preparation camp.
“It’s a big campaign and we have received fantastic support from the families of all riders. It will not only be vital to achieving the best possible performances, it is going to be a tremendous experience for them all.”
Female endurance: Cassie Cameron (Wanganui), Alysha Keith (Dunedin), Racquel Sheath (Auckland), Sophie Williamson (Alexandra), Georgina Wilson (North Harbour).
Female sprint: Kate Dunlevey (Invercargill), Paige Patterson (Auckland), Victoria Steel (Christchurch).
Male endurance: Liam Aitcheson (Alexandra), Tom Beadle (Invercargill), Tayla Harrison (Christchurch), Dylan Kennett (Waimate), Hayden McCormick (Te Awamutu), Hamish Schreurs (Christchurch).
Men’s sprint: Jeremy Presbury (Invercargill), Zach Williams (Auckland).
Staff: Ross Machejefski (head coach), Mark Lucas (female endurance coach), John Rastrick (sprint coach), John Green (team manager), Lynnette Murphy (track manager).
For further information contact:
IAN HEPENSTALL
Media Liaison, BikeNZ High Performance
Sports Media NZ Ltd
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Hundreds of Nationals Photos Loaded
Browse to http://picasaweb.google.com/RamblersPics or click on Photos top menu on Ramblers site to browse new Photos by Don Kennedy and Judy Stableford.
Judy has added most if not all podium shots, Don has contributed photos of most ITT starters and Road races over the three days.
Judy has added most if not all podium shots, Don has contributed photos of most ITT starters and Road races over the three days.
Monday, May 14, 2012
Wheres Fraser ?
For those of you interesed in Fraser Goughs adventures in Europe connect to his blog
http://frasergough.blogspot.co.nz/
http://frasergough.blogspot.co.nz/
Friday, May 11, 2012
Hastings Sunday Ride 13th May (Mothers Day)
Leaving Outside Rebel Sport on Heretaunga Street 8:00am
Clarksons Hill and Return (65 km)
Clarksons Hill and Return (65 km)
Saturday Racing, 12th May
Circuit: Clive Criterium
Venue: no venue
Race start time: 1pm
Race Starter: Hilary Green
Emergency Phone: 027 426 6895
START TIMES
G 1.00pm
F 1.25pm
E 1.50pm
15 minutes + 3 laps
D 2.15pm
C 2.45pm
B 3.15pm
A 3.45pm
20 minutes + 3 laps
Venue: no venue
Race start time: 1pm
Race Starter: Hilary Green
Emergency Phone: 027 426 6895
START TIMES
G 1.00pm
F 1.25pm
E 1.50pm
15 minutes + 3 laps
D 2.15pm
C 2.45pm
B 3.15pm
A 3.45pm
20 minutes + 3 laps
Rabobank BikeNZ Club Road Cycling National Champions
In the last eNews, there were two typos.
Susan Tunnicliff received two golds, in both the time trial and the road race
Craig Hill also received two medals – a gold in the road race and a bronze in th time trial
Congratulations once again to our National Champions from RCC and CHB
Susan Tunnicliff received two golds, in both the time trial and the road race
Craig Hill also received two medals – a gold in the road race and a bronze in th time trial
Congratulations once again to our National Champions from RCC and CHB
Hannah and Ashleigh - Working with Death Wands
Sunday night saw Ashleigh off to Amsterdam for dinner with a friend… . During the train ride home on Queens Day she missed Hannah when a 40 yes 40 year old man wanted her number… she now has a new name and does not believe in cell phones. Enough said. The rest of Queens Day saw a happy reunion (we hadn’t seen each other for a few hours) a base ride and Queens Day cake mmmmm. That evening we got the good news of two weeks of work. Woohoo! The catch was that we started on Tuesday, and would be picked up at 6.45 am..
So off we went early Tuesday morning in our rain jackets and overalls and over trousers, into the fields, for 10 hours of killing the wrong colour flowers with spray guns which we belt to our waists. We quickly gave our sprayers the affectionate names of “Death Wand” and “Wand of Death”. We used them to pass judgement over the flowers, killing the ones that don’t meet the standard…Oh this one is pretty…Kill it!!! Our Death Wands were filled with Death Juice, which just so happened to be round up. Tasty. Needless to say that we had a rest day, well if you call walking for 10 hours resting.
Wednesday more killing, much talk about what we would spend our money on and some intervals once we made it home.
Thursday more killing, bonding (this is sarcastic, we avoided them as much as we could) with the Polish men and motor pacing with the club boys in the evening.
Friday more killing, four coffees and a rest day.
Saturday more killing for Hannah and a race in Belgium for Ashleigh.
Ashleigh managed to weasel herself out of work on Saturday by being selected to race for the team in Belgium. So she departed with the rest of the team in the morning. The race went well she was well positioned in the bunch. Sadly after dropping her chain on the inside on the cobbles she was demoted to the 4th bunch from the second, after 15ks she was back in the third but was soon back in the 4th after the pace went on in the cross wind again and she popped. The final 30km proved to be too short to redeem the situation since the race finished with 8 laps of a 7km course. All riders not in the front of the race got pulled out. 186 starters, 35 finished. It’s rough here! In the quiet of riding back to the team bus she discovered she had been resistance training, her wheel was buckled and rubbing on her breaks. Rookie mistake. She had just put it down to having no legs thanks to all the flower field walking! But all in all a good race.
Sunday we had national race in Kempen. We did it! We raced in the bunch! not on the back of the bunch : ) Ashleigh spent some exciting time in the mud after being pushed off the curb by a backside you really wouldn’t want to argue with, and Hannah hit a curb at the wrong angle managing to get both wheels off the ground and cause a bit drama for the riders around her. The first half of the race was good, but the week and the race the day before soon took its toll and Ashleigh was soon following the race signs back to start on her own. Knowing it to be a 110km loop and having still 50km to go she decided in her ultimate wisdom to head in the direction of the start, and find a short cut. Arriving at a sign that said “Welcome to Belgie” was not the shortest way to go. Fail. Hannah had a similar experience being dropped a bit later in the race, except she discovered a Dutch girl who read the maps at the intersections like a pro to get them back at the same time as the Peloton. No one will ever know! Hehe. Highlight of the day was Hannah finding 10 euros two hours’ work right there! Boom! And having a team mascot in the form of a Jack Russell for the day.
Back to work tomorrow
Hannah and Ashleigh
So off we went early Tuesday morning in our rain jackets and overalls and over trousers, into the fields, for 10 hours of killing the wrong colour flowers with spray guns which we belt to our waists. We quickly gave our sprayers the affectionate names of “Death Wand” and “Wand of Death”. We used them to pass judgement over the flowers, killing the ones that don’t meet the standard…Oh this one is pretty…Kill it!!! Our Death Wands were filled with Death Juice, which just so happened to be round up. Tasty. Needless to say that we had a rest day, well if you call walking for 10 hours resting.
Wednesday more killing, much talk about what we would spend our money on and some intervals once we made it home.
Thursday more killing, bonding (this is sarcastic, we avoided them as much as we could) with the Polish men and motor pacing with the club boys in the evening.
Friday more killing, four coffees and a rest day.
Saturday more killing for Hannah and a race in Belgium for Ashleigh.
Ashleigh managed to weasel herself out of work on Saturday by being selected to race for the team in Belgium. So she departed with the rest of the team in the morning. The race went well she was well positioned in the bunch. Sadly after dropping her chain on the inside on the cobbles she was demoted to the 4th bunch from the second, after 15ks she was back in the third but was soon back in the 4th after the pace went on in the cross wind again and she popped. The final 30km proved to be too short to redeem the situation since the race finished with 8 laps of a 7km course. All riders not in the front of the race got pulled out. 186 starters, 35 finished. It’s rough here! In the quiet of riding back to the team bus she discovered she had been resistance training, her wheel was buckled and rubbing on her breaks. Rookie mistake. She had just put it down to having no legs thanks to all the flower field walking! But all in all a good race.
Sunday we had national race in Kempen. We did it! We raced in the bunch! not on the back of the bunch : ) Ashleigh spent some exciting time in the mud after being pushed off the curb by a backside you really wouldn’t want to argue with, and Hannah hit a curb at the wrong angle managing to get both wheels off the ground and cause a bit drama for the riders around her. The first half of the race was good, but the week and the race the day before soon took its toll and Ashleigh was soon following the race signs back to start on her own. Knowing it to be a 110km loop and having still 50km to go she decided in her ultimate wisdom to head in the direction of the start, and find a short cut. Arriving at a sign that said “Welcome to Belgie” was not the shortest way to go. Fail. Hannah had a similar experience being dropped a bit later in the race, except she discovered a Dutch girl who read the maps at the intersections like a pro to get them back at the same time as the Peloton. No one will ever know! Hehe. Highlight of the day was Hannah finding 10 euros two hours’ work right there! Boom! And having a team mascot in the form of a Jack Russell for the day.
Back to work tomorrow
Hannah and Ashleigh
Ashleigh and Hannah update
Alrighty, so we arrived in Belgium in the town of Zottegem midday Monday, after a particularly interesting train ride. We wouldnt neccesarily recomend standing the whole way. After the first international to Belg was cancelled the second became quite packed. Being the well raised children that we are we set a good image of Kiwis by giving up our seats to a women with 3 small children and a pram. Of course none of the men stood up for us, even after 2 hours in transit. Moral of the story, don't catch a train when the one before has been cancelled. We did get to meet 3 Aussies though. A retired couple touring Europe backpacker styles. They were such a hoot, we had a lot of laughs which was good for passing the time standing; we also got chatting with a guy from Western Australia who sadly was here for a funeral of a relative and knew and awful lot about ANZAC. When the train finally cleared out a little the compartment for bikes allowed for sitting space, but luckily the man who had been seated the whole trip finally had somewhere to put his bag, so much to our pleasure we remained standing. BUT! We made it! We can indeed add Belgium to our list of successful international commutes.
Tuesday we found ourselves in a ridiculously huge bunch ride, take the Taradale clock tower bunch and multiply it by the inappropriate pictures on Andy Townsends Facebook wall, and that's how big the bunch was. We also met a pretty quality crew of aspiring young riders, even though they were more Australians. They took us over an extra hour or two of climbs after the bunch ride, via thee most amazong bkie shop we are yet to experience. Due to a failure to plan Gluten Free riding snacks, Ashleigh took getting lean to a new level and rode off some rice wafers. Safe to say our wonderfully cooked dinner (the first meal we have made in Euro) went down a treat. We also got to experience the Tuesday evening nightlife of Zottegem with a few casual drinks in "The Jorris" with Michael Vink and company.
Wednesday took us up the famous cobbles in the
Oude Kwaremont-Tick
Paterberg-Tick
Kopenberg-Tick
Eikenberg- Tick
Molenberg- Tick
Cough didn't have to walk shame boys you underestimate us cough.
Enough said.
We also introduced the UK riders to the magic of ANZAC cookies, when we bargained ourselves use of the washing machine and dryer in exchange for baked goods.
We missed the Weleda cabinet on Thursday, after 40 mins in the rain and wind a neit goed Banny had to be taken home. :-( Some excessive sleeping and consumption of tea, and a drop of mothering from Ashleigh saw her back to her usually healthy self within a day or two. :-) Searching for a training partner Ashleigh paid the boys house a visit. She found an Aussie who happens to be the neighbour of one of the Australian girls in her Tour Of NZ Team last year.. Small world! He was off for four hours, so an urgent acquirement of more snacks was needed. Turns out you can fit a fair few rice wafers in a cycling jersey if you pack it right, but don't expect to be flying..
Friday morning we intended to catch the train early morning, but a failure to get out of bed ruined that idea. Our eventual arrival time after a much more comfortable journey in was much later than we anticipated but all was well in the world. We found a theme park! A Pre-Queens Day keremese in Amsterdam Square proved to be an entertaining if some what unrestful rest day.
The weekend finally arrived. Saturday was all about the self inflicted pain with a national point series TT. Ashleigh chose a disc, kindly loaned from the WV Noord Holland Club, and spent all the cross wind time not on the aero bars, and some cross wind time not in contact with the road. It was a very windy day. She missed the podium by just 9 seconds but did enough to earn another UCI start in Belg. Hannah doesn't want to talk about it, we would have to use bad words to explain her weekend.
Yes, I would like to order a crash and chase please. Actually , make mine a double. After getting tangled in a pile up early in the race Ashleigh used the TT legs of the previous day to get back in the race. Only to repeat the process. Although it did mean she got a bit more of her favourite part of cycling, with a solid TT effort. Never mind, that's bike racing.
It was a beautiful week all about the bikes. Time for bed!
Ash and Han
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Nationals Photos
Click here for a sample of photos by Don Kennedy
https://picasaweb.google.com/117091219213797409796/ClubNationals2102
https://picasaweb.google.com/117091219213797409796/ClubNationals2102
Club Nationals ITT and Road Race Results
U17 Boys (Don Kennedy)
Final results are now also available at http://www.ramblers.co.nz/nats2012.asp
Saturday Racing, 28th April
Circuit: Clive Criterium
Venue: no venue
Race start time: from 1pm
Race Starter: Hilary Green
Emergency Phone: 027 426 6895
Grade start times will be made available closer to the day
Venue: no venue
Race start time: from 1pm
Race Starter: Hilary Green
Emergency Phone: 027 426 6895
Grade start times will be made available closer to the day
Rostered for Race Duty?
Ramblers relies heavily on volunteers each Saturday Race Day to assist on the road, in the start and finish areas as well as the sign-in desk and the kitchen.
However, the roster means that each member should only be rostered on for one Saturday in a calendar year.
If you unable to do your duty, it is your responsibility to find a replacement if you are unable to fulfil it.
During the Autumn Series, 2 races have come very close to being cancelled due to a shortage of marshals.
If you do not ensure your duty is fulfilled (by yourself or a replacement) you may be docked points on the current series table.
However, of more concern to your fellow riders, it may ultimately mean that you are a contributing factor to a race being cancelled.
Please be responsible and ensure your duty is covered.
However, the roster means that each member should only be rostered on for one Saturday in a calendar year.
If you unable to do your duty, it is your responsibility to find a replacement if you are unable to fulfil it.
During the Autumn Series, 2 races have come very close to being cancelled due to a shortage of marshals.
If you do not ensure your duty is fulfilled (by yourself or a replacement) you may be docked points on the current series table.
However, of more concern to your fellow riders, it may ultimately mean that you are a contributing factor to a race being cancelled.
Please be responsible and ensure your duty is covered.
Transponder Reminder
Transponders do not work while in the back pocket of your cycle jersey. If you wish your transponder to register your result, ensure that your tag is attached correctly to the front fork of your bicycle.
Rabobank BikeNZ Club Road Cycling National Champions
Thank you to all the supporters, marshalls, runners, and crews who made this event a success... special thanks to Event Director, Gavin Bush, and his team who ensured everything fell into place for supporters, spectators and riders alike.
Congratulations to our National Champions from RCC and CHB
Gold Medals
Regan Gough; U17 ITT
Ingrid Perols; M5 ITT
Susan Tunnicliff; M6 ITT
Susan Tunnicliff; M6 RR
Craig Hill C4 MEN RR
Silver
Sam Thorpe-Loversuch; U15 ITT
Andrew Townsend; M3 ITT
Dan Warren; Elite RR
Sam Thorpe-Loversuch; U15 RR
Regan Gough; U17 RR
Phoebe Treseder; U17 RR
Bronze
Ian Seddon; M5 ITT
Craig Hill; Standard ITT
Luke Mudgeway; U17 RR
Congratulations to our National Champions from RCC and CHB
Gold Medals
Regan Gough; U17 ITT
Ingrid Perols; M5 ITT
Susan Tunnicliff; M6 ITT
Susan Tunnicliff; M6 RR
Craig Hill C4 MEN RR
Silver
Sam Thorpe-Loversuch; U15 ITT
Andrew Townsend; M3 ITT
Dan Warren; Elite RR
Sam Thorpe-Loversuch; U15 RR
Regan Gough; U17 RR
Phoebe Treseder; U17 RR
Bronze
Ian Seddon; M5 ITT
Craig Hill; Standard ITT
Luke Mudgeway; U17 RR
Ramblers AGM: 14th May 2012
Where: Hastings RSA
When: 7pm
If you wish to nominate someone for committee, the nomination forms are on our website.
See you there!
When: 7pm
If you wish to nominate someone for committee, the nomination forms are on our website.
See you there!
BikeNZ Hawkes Bay Coaching Forum
Topic: Motivation (including a specific section on teenagers)
Guest Speaker: Edmond Otis
When: Wednesday 23rd May
Where: SportHB, Pettigrew Green Arena, Taradale
This is open to all coaches, of any level, of any cycling code, whether or not you are BikeNZ accredited. If you are not currently coaching, but are interested then getting involved in this side of the sport then you are also very welcome at these forums. These will include a coaching professional development module, a guest speaker, a chance for you to give us feedback and much more!
Please register at the BikeNZ website or copy and paste the link below.
https://sitedesq.imgstg.com/eventsregform/index.cfm?fuseaction=display_event_detail&EventID=11679&OrgID=6346 to register online.
Guest Speaker: Edmond Otis
When: Wednesday 23rd May
Where: SportHB, Pettigrew Green Arena, Taradale
This is open to all coaches, of any level, of any cycling code, whether or not you are BikeNZ accredited. If you are not currently coaching, but are interested then getting involved in this side of the sport then you are also very welcome at these forums. These will include a coaching professional development module, a guest speaker, a chance for you to give us feedback and much more!
Please register at the BikeNZ website or copy and paste the link below.
https://sitedesq.imgstg.com/eventsregform/index.cfm?fuseaction=display_event_detail&EventID=11679&OrgID=6346 to register online.
2012 Unisonfibre Hawke's Bay Sports Awards
Sport Hawke's Bay has announced the finalists for the 2012 Unisonfibre Hawke's Bay Sports Awards.
All the best to the following nominees from Ramblers:
The Lion Foundation Junior Sportsperson of the Year: Fraser Gough
Westpac Junior Team of the Year: East Coast North Island U17 Track Cycling Team
Mackersey Construction Masters Sportsperson of the Year: Kerry Harford
Unisonfibre Service to Sport: Robert Oliver
BPX Club Operations of the Year : Ramblers Cycling Club
Tickets are available from the Sport Hawke's Bay office at Pettigrew Green Arena for $90 per person or $85 for a table of ten.
This year, John Coutts will be inducted into the Hawke's Bay Sports Hall of Fame
All the best to the following nominees from Ramblers:
The Lion Foundation Junior Sportsperson of the Year: Fraser Gough
Westpac Junior Team of the Year: East Coast North Island U17 Track Cycling Team
Mackersey Construction Masters Sportsperson of the Year: Kerry Harford
Unisonfibre Service to Sport: Robert Oliver
BPX Club Operations of the Year : Ramblers Cycling Club
Tickets are available from the Sport Hawke's Bay office at Pettigrew Green Arena for $90 per person or $85 for a table of ten.
This year, John Coutts will be inducted into the Hawke's Bay Sports Hall of Fame
Ramblin’ On
Please send your articles, photographs, letters, thumbs up/down and other items to Editor Dave before 27 May. Dave’s email is davemarett@slingshot.co.nz
Lost Cycle Computer: Nationals Masters 5 Road Race
If anyone found an APLHA cycle computer approximately 5km from the start line this last weekend, please email info@ramblers.co.nz
The Ride of Your Life!’ Cycling Festival
Check out www.fortherideofyourlife.co.nz - here is a little taster for roadies who travel to ‘the dark side’ or for those whojust wish to watch.
Napier Prison Brake: Are you ready for the ultimate mountain bike escape race?
The historic Napier Prison will be staging the amazing start for “The Ride of Your Life!” Urban Mountain Bike race on Saturday July 7th 2012.
The HBMTB Club race is offering 3x different ‘escape’ routes for you to enter, starting at 2pm. These take place on and around Bluff Hill lookout.
Registration will be at the Centennial Gardens Carpark. Prize giving will be held at Speight’s Ale House from 5.30pm (including a prize for best dressed convict).
Escape Routes:
Maximum Security 5x laps (20 k approx.)
Probation 4x laps (16k approx.)
Delinquents 3x laps (12k approx.)
Further details and to enter online at www.hawkesbaymtb.co.nz
Napier Prison Brake: Are you ready for the ultimate mountain bike escape race?
The historic Napier Prison will be staging the amazing start for “The Ride of Your Life!” Urban Mountain Bike race on Saturday July 7th 2012.
The HBMTB Club race is offering 3x different ‘escape’ routes for you to enter, starting at 2pm. These take place on and around Bluff Hill lookout.
Registration will be at the Centennial Gardens Carpark. Prize giving will be held at Speight’s Ale House from 5.30pm (including a prize for best dressed convict).
Escape Routes:
Maximum Security 5x laps (20 k approx.)
Probation 4x laps (16k approx.)
Delinquents 3x laps (12k approx.)
Further details and to enter online at www.hawkesbaymtb.co.nz
RCC Club Winter Dinner
When: Saturday 21st July, 2012
Where: War Memorial Hall, Marine Parade, Napier
Time: from 6pm for drinks (buy your own at the bar) - 7pm buffet dinner ($40 per head)
Guest Speaker: Gordon MacAuley
Contact mark.pauline@vodafone.co.nz to confirm your booking and arrange payment.
Where: War Memorial Hall, Marine Parade, Napier
Time: from 6pm for drinks (buy your own at the bar) - 7pm buffet dinner ($40 per head)
Guest Speaker: Gordon MacAuley
Contact mark.pauline@vodafone.co.nz to confirm your booking and arrange payment.
Upcoming Events
20th May: Laskey Cycles Manfield 6 hour challenge
17th June: CX, Blackbarn, Havelock North
6th July: Ramblers Club Criterium, Marine Parade, Napier
6th – 8th July: Ride of Your Life Cycling Festival, Napier
8th July: Cyclocross National Championships, Napier
22nd July: CX, Roy’s Hill, Hastings
12th August: CX, Blackbarn, Havelock North
August: Reiker 2 Day Tour, Timaru
22nd – 23rd September: R & R Sport Tour, Otago
2nd September: Clearview Winery, Napier
16th September: CX, Chesterhope, Hastings
30th September: Novice Tour of Manawatu
5th – 7th October: Yunca Junior Tour, Invercargill
14th October: Tour of the Bay, Hastings
17th June: CX, Blackbarn, Havelock North
6th July: Ramblers Club Criterium, Marine Parade, Napier
6th – 8th July: Ride of Your Life Cycling Festival, Napier
8th July: Cyclocross National Championships, Napier
22nd July: CX, Roy’s Hill, Hastings
12th August: CX, Blackbarn, Havelock North
August: Reiker 2 Day Tour, Timaru
22nd – 23rd September: R & R Sport Tour, Otago
2nd September: Clearview Winery, Napier
16th September: CX, Chesterhope, Hastings
30th September: Novice Tour of Manawatu
5th – 7th October: Yunca Junior Tour, Invercargill
14th October: Tour of the Bay, Hastings
Ashleigh is a can of bake beans that's in the bargain bin because it was thrown on the floor and Hannah is a Rebel Child.
Right, lets see. Monday was fairly uneventful bar the incident with the Chicken Curry.. Ask Hannah how her Dutch is coming along, and what "Kip Kurrie" could possibly mean?
Tuesday proved to set the trend for the rest of the week with an eventful and memorable ride, and not the good kind of memorable. We found ourselves lost. again. in the cats and dogs. and 123,123,123 windmill speed. sigh. But this time we were lead astray by the Club trainer on the Club ride. But! "Wait! Theres more! We know what to do in this situation!! We know how to become un-lost! We are indeed fimiliar with this scenario." Needless to say we are significanlty more popular than we were this time last week.
The nice man let us into his tractor and took us for ride. On Wednesday we set a record for the slowest trip down the Belkmerweg. We saw Cousin Engle in his tractor in the feilds, and he let us take it up and down so we could see the flowers from a different veiw. The best bit was cranking up the Shania Twain that occupied the stereo. There may or may not be several (10's) of photos of flowers heading towards facebook. Continuing on the photo frenzy we found a Bunny Home. We punctured (Suprise Suprise) and it happened to be next to a wee feild home to 15 little, and some not so little bunnies!! Awwwwwww. *in high pitched tones*. That and a base ride sumes up the day.
Thursday we discovered what hard workers the Dutch are. We drove 2 hours South and then enjoyed a well deserved break. After an hour we actually began the actual work. We had the job of peeling all the white frost cloth from the feilds of lillies.. easy. Surely? In the same way doing reps til failure up Te Mata Peak would be easy. Joy. But after 2 hours of hard work, well Hannah and I and the Polish man worked hard.. you could use the term "spectate" appropriately to describe the input of the others... After an hour we were refreshed again and ready for another 2 hours before our hour break to prepare us for the 2 hours home..
Hannah made the big mistake of lending Ashleigh her Cappos on Friday. Lets just say, I-BEAT-HANNAH-IN-A-SPRINT! HECK-YEAH-I-DID! The perfect end to this day was dinner at the neighbours. We had a beautiful meal with some beautiful people. We learnt that the house was an old farm house from back in the day, back in the day being in fact 1640.
Saturday was another mission bike clean, sand and more sand.. We also took the bikes to the shop, where Marco looked after us so well. Setting some high standards for you Hub Boys! We trucked ourselves to the weekly mens crit, literally trucked. (We have been drving a very big car!) We made it to the race but not the sign on, thanks to a puncture (another) incident between the car park and the start line. After 3 laps of pleading with the jury we were allowed to jump in! Yus! Althoguh we were told we had to stay in the back of the race. We learnt very quickly how hard it is to jump into a race with the men at 45km/h without a warm up. Not that it mattered to Ashleigh, a can of beans would have been faster than her that day, but at least she did as she was told. Hannah was a rebel. She tucked herself into the front third of the bunch, causing much controversy and uproar in the back of the pack. This is Ashleighs' translation of the drama..
Upset Rider: "They shouldn't be able to race! They missed the start"
Good Guy: "It's ok, let them race"
Upset Rider: "No, why should they be allowed to race when they missed the start"
Good Guy: "Let them race, they are English"
Upset Rider: "No they are not English, They do not sound English"
Good Guy: "Well, they are American then. Just let them race. They are Dames, what's the problem??"
Upset Rider: *Attacks*
Sunday we found ourselves at Ronde van Noord Holland. They planned the course so well, managing to fit the 80 starters on an 800m course including cobbles, 2 bridges, 3 speed bumps, 6 corners and a bit of a hill in the circuit. Ashleigh raced like the beans from the previous day had been thrown on the floor and were now in the bargain bin. After being run into a barrier on a corner by a, let's call her a, silly girl to keep it nice. She lost her nerve a bit and rode last wheel eventually being dropped as the bunch split 40 laps into the race. 15 solo laps later she got lapped and was given 34th in the results. Not a bad TT session. Hannah was armed with the Cappos and smashed the circuit to finish 13th and bring home a 50euro pay day. Woohoo!! Such happy faces. Not a bad interval session.
Sunday night we packed our bags and caught the train to Amsterdam. Where we are crashing for the night before rocking off to Belgium for the week for a change of scenery and some fluent Kiwi. The train was an interesting trip, having insufficent coins we chose to purchase a dicount ticket, despite not having a discount card (we later found out that this was a 70Euro fine each). We also failed to purchase train tickets for our bikes (We later found out that this was a 35Euro fine for each bike).. Fortunatley the clueless forigner card and some more of Ashleigh's perfectly on cue tears were enough to get us out of the fine, so long as we never did it again. So we got off the train and went to get onto another, purchased ligit tickets this time but were assured we could get away nothing for the bikes. HOWEVER just as we were about to get on the train.. Who should appear on the platform? The same ticket checker man! Run! Don't get on the train! Go go! Needless to say we purchased correct tickets and waited for the next train.
So here we are, ready to use our international travel skills, and whisk ourselves off to Belgium. Hope all the training for nationals is going well. GO RAMBLERS!!
Ashleigh and Hannah.
Tuesday proved to set the trend for the rest of the week with an eventful and memorable ride, and not the good kind of memorable. We found ourselves lost. again. in the cats and dogs. and 123,123,123 windmill speed. sigh. But this time we were lead astray by the Club trainer on the Club ride. But! "Wait! Theres more! We know what to do in this situation!! We know how to become un-lost! We are indeed fimiliar with this scenario." Needless to say we are significanlty more popular than we were this time last week.
The nice man let us into his tractor and took us for ride. On Wednesday we set a record for the slowest trip down the Belkmerweg. We saw Cousin Engle in his tractor in the feilds, and he let us take it up and down so we could see the flowers from a different veiw. The best bit was cranking up the Shania Twain that occupied the stereo. There may or may not be several (10's) of photos of flowers heading towards facebook. Continuing on the photo frenzy we found a Bunny Home. We punctured (Suprise Suprise) and it happened to be next to a wee feild home to 15 little, and some not so little bunnies!! Awwwwwww. *in high pitched tones*. That and a base ride sumes up the day.
Thursday we discovered what hard workers the Dutch are. We drove 2 hours South and then enjoyed a well deserved break. After an hour we actually began the actual work. We had the job of peeling all the white frost cloth from the feilds of lillies.. easy. Surely? In the same way doing reps til failure up Te Mata Peak would be easy. Joy. But after 2 hours of hard work, well Hannah and I and the Polish man worked hard.. you could use the term "spectate" appropriately to describe the input of the others... After an hour we were refreshed again and ready for another 2 hours before our hour break to prepare us for the 2 hours home..
Hannah made the big mistake of lending Ashleigh her Cappos on Friday. Lets just say, I-BEAT-HANNAH-IN-A-SPRINT! HECK-YEAH-I-DID! The perfect end to this day was dinner at the neighbours. We had a beautiful meal with some beautiful people. We learnt that the house was an old farm house from back in the day, back in the day being in fact 1640.
Saturday was another mission bike clean, sand and more sand.. We also took the bikes to the shop, where Marco looked after us so well. Setting some high standards for you Hub Boys! We trucked ourselves to the weekly mens crit, literally trucked. (We have been drving a very big car!) We made it to the race but not the sign on, thanks to a puncture (another) incident between the car park and the start line. After 3 laps of pleading with the jury we were allowed to jump in! Yus! Althoguh we were told we had to stay in the back of the race. We learnt very quickly how hard it is to jump into a race with the men at 45km/h without a warm up. Not that it mattered to Ashleigh, a can of beans would have been faster than her that day, but at least she did as she was told. Hannah was a rebel. She tucked herself into the front third of the bunch, causing much controversy and uproar in the back of the pack. This is Ashleighs' translation of the drama..
Upset Rider: "They shouldn't be able to race! They missed the start"
Good Guy: "It's ok, let them race"
Upset Rider: "No, why should they be allowed to race when they missed the start"
Good Guy: "Let them race, they are English"
Upset Rider: "No they are not English, They do not sound English"
Good Guy: "Well, they are American then. Just let them race. They are Dames, what's the problem??"
Upset Rider: *Attacks*
Sunday we found ourselves at Ronde van Noord Holland. They planned the course so well, managing to fit the 80 starters on an 800m course including cobbles, 2 bridges, 3 speed bumps, 6 corners and a bit of a hill in the circuit. Ashleigh raced like the beans from the previous day had been thrown on the floor and were now in the bargain bin. After being run into a barrier on a corner by a, let's call her a, silly girl to keep it nice. She lost her nerve a bit and rode last wheel eventually being dropped as the bunch split 40 laps into the race. 15 solo laps later she got lapped and was given 34th in the results. Not a bad TT session. Hannah was armed with the Cappos and smashed the circuit to finish 13th and bring home a 50euro pay day. Woohoo!! Such happy faces. Not a bad interval session.
Sunday night we packed our bags and caught the train to Amsterdam. Where we are crashing for the night before rocking off to Belgium for the week for a change of scenery and some fluent Kiwi. The train was an interesting trip, having insufficent coins we chose to purchase a dicount ticket, despite not having a discount card (we later found out that this was a 70Euro fine each). We also failed to purchase train tickets for our bikes (We later found out that this was a 35Euro fine for each bike).. Fortunatley the clueless forigner card and some more of Ashleigh's perfectly on cue tears were enough to get us out of the fine, so long as we never did it again. So we got off the train and went to get onto another, purchased ligit tickets this time but were assured we could get away nothing for the bikes. HOWEVER just as we were about to get on the train.. Who should appear on the platform? The same ticket checker man! Run! Don't get on the train! Go go! Needless to say we purchased correct tickets and waited for the next train.
So here we are, ready to use our international travel skills, and whisk ourselves off to Belgium. Hope all the training for nationals is going well. GO RAMBLERS!!
Ashleigh and Hannah.
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