Half Acre Cycling's Women/Trans Road Clinic

The ladies at Half Acre Cycling are hosting their annual women's road clinic on April 28th. The registration information is here: https://www.bikereg.com/Net/16132

There are two separate events that you can sign up for, a beginners clinic and an intermediate/advanced one.

Because of low pre-regs the Intermediate/Advanced clinic is in danger of being cancelled. If you're on the fence about attending, some of the snazzy topics that will be covered are:

• Myths about tire pressure
• Myths about weight loss
• How to openly discuss on your team who is going to work for who when it comes to getting upgrade points
• How to put lady teammates on the podium

Date/Time: Saturday, April 28th 9 am ~ 1 pm (please bring a snack or bag lunch)

Location: Clarendon Park Community Center 4501 N. Clarendon Ave, Chicago , with on-bike
portion taking place at nearby Montrose Harbor.

Cost: $20 for Beginners Clinic; $25 for Intermediate Clinic

Monsters 2012: “An extra women-friendly race"

FREE water bottles go to all women who pre-register for Monsters 2012. 

A message from Monsters race director, Katie Mann:

Monsters of the Midway is one of Chicago's longest running criteriums and it's coming up again on May 12th.  This year we're looking to make Monsters an extra women-friendly race.  

1. All women and all juniors who pre-register will get one of these sweeeeet looking water bottles (pictured above) on race day, totally free.  Swap out that moldy bottle that always tastes like orange gatorade mix for something fresh.  (We'll also have a few for sale on race day.) 

2. Did you race at Gapers Block?  Well, then you probably heard: pre-reg for Monsters and get a $5 refund on race day!  That's $5 cash, just for showing up.

3. Speaking of $5, category 4 women can check out the W-Open race for just $5.  If you can stick with the pack in the 4's, you should consider testing yourself in the W-Open.  It's a great experience, and shows you that the next step up isn't as far away as you think.  Hey, I tried it last weekend.  

4. If you're not a cat 4 and are feeling a little left out, never fear.  We're doing our best to make this the biggest W-open field in Chicago.  More starters = more fun.  If you've got suggestions on how we can make your race even better, shoot me an e-mail.  

5. Plus, did I mention that we have tons of premes from some awesome sponsors??  [So far this include a bike fit (and more!) from Trek bikes on Michigan,  coffee gift packs from Cafe 57, swag/secret drink mix from Skratch labs, monsters t-shirts... watch out though, I'm gonna be sprinting for ALL of these]

Finally, don't forget: this is one of the few races that you can ride to on the lakefront path.  And your registration fees support a collegiate team.  

More info: UCVC website
Facebook us! 

Register here! 

The Monsters of the Midway W-4 peloton in 2009. 

CWBR Interview: Cathy Frampton

Cathy Frampton sprinting to a win in the criterium at the Joe Martin Stage Race last year.

Please introduce yourself. 

I grew up in Chicago and now live in the 'burbs with my husband. I have a full-time job which also requires travel that I weave into my training/race schedule. Prior to bike racing, I competed in various team sports - although they usually included some kind of a ball. When not working or cycling, I am enjoying the fabulousy tasty concoctions my husband creates for me and our family and friends, strumming the guitar or banging on the drums, and reading.

How did you get started in cycling, and what disciplines do you do? 

My first memories of riding a bike are on our grandpa's Raleigh in Ireland. Too big for us, we had to stick our leg through the bike to pedal. In the mid-90's, I did the MS150 - we set out too late on Day 2, so got into a pace line of sorts and went as fast as we could. That was a blast. But the real changes came in 2005 when my brother gave me a bike. That year I started commuting, did my first century as a 40th b-day venture, and took a week-long cycling trip in Montana. The next couple years, I did charity rides - and then I wanted to do them faster. In 2007, I went on-line not sure what I was looking for, found a local women's racing team (I didn't even know racing existed locally - never mind for women!), and joined them for an "easy" ride. Needless to say, I got my butt whooped - dropped my chain, they dropped me, not enough water, no food. I went humbly back to my charity riding -but now aware that racing existed. The next year, when I congratulated one of those "easy" riders on her win at the Downers Grove crit, Kristen Meshberg invited me to her Pedaling with a Purpose (PWP) class in Oak Brook. I signed up immediately. Listening to the racing chatter at PWP and Kristen's nudge of "just try it" got me onto the crit course at the Gaper's Block first series in 2009. Since then I joined the Project 5 Racing team and have competed in crits, road races, TT's (I don't like them - yet?) and cyclocross.

What is your favorite race (local, regional, or otherwise)? 

I really like Fox River Grove - not that I do it well, I just like it. I like the challenge of both the hill and the descent. Part self challenge, part strategy against others as I try to pass one more racer before the finish. Nothing about the course is boring. For the same reason, I like Snake Alley.

How would you describe your racing style? 

Hhhmmm... I am still working on figuring that out. I don't have any stand-out qualities like a huge sprint or time trialing - so I guess I am an all-arounder.I do like racing as part of a team, strategizing and deploying team tactics. Whatever we decide to do influences more how I will race than what my natural tendency might be. My greatest memories of racing so far have been in leading out my teammates for their victories - what an awesome feeling!

Who is your favorite racer and why?

 I do like watching Cavendish find a way through the crowd to bolt to the finish - a magician! And Cancellera's strength to just power away is jaw-dropping. But those guys are new to me. I didn't start liking racing because of seeing the pros. My first favorites were, and are, all our local women. I enjoy watching and learning and get a real kick out of seeing others get excited about trying something new and feeling good about their effort.  
 
How do you manage a balance between your cycling and non-cycling life?

I just told a friend how cycling is like medicine, I need it to remain healthy mentally and physically. So I plan it into my day/week, like any other planned event, and try not to diminish its importance relative to all the other life-things that come up. I am lucky that both at home and at work I have great people that give me the opportunity to fit cycling in my schedule. I couldn't do it without their support.

In your opinion, what are a few things that the women’s cycling community can do to strengthen itself and its presence in the local cycling scene? 

Those that are riding now, stay on the bikes and demonstrate confidence in oneself. When other women see that - and they want that for themselves - they may be more inclined to get on their bikes. In order to demonstrate confidence, you have to develop it. The women's only clinics and workshops create a more comfortable environment for women to participate - thank you to all the clubs and individuals who have and will host these (Editor’s note: Check out the CWBR events calendar for information on upcoming clinics). And I ask that the experienced cyclists attend as well, please - There is always something more to learn but your energy at these events might help encourage a less confident potential cyclist to give it a go.

What is your advice for a new woman cyclist? 

Specifically for cycling, it is a lifelong activity, so grow into it at your pace. Start with pedaling around the neighborhood, then consider commuting, charity rides (this site has links to most IL and mid-west rides), join local group rides (local bike clubs such as Downers Grove or Elmhurst, bike shop, or the women's cycling clubs), and then there is racing. Do what is right for you now. I didn't really start cycling until I was 40 and racing when I was 44. After racing, I plan to be touring somewhere, indulging in good food, drink, and music. But the bottom line is DO something - whatever it is for you. If you are on the edge of considering trying something (not just cycling), the standing on the side thinking about it is always much more agonizing than the doing. If you're lucky, someone might say a word to try to nudge you over the edge - recognize that as a gift (thanks, Kristen) and dive in - or at least dip your toe, get used to that, then stick in the whole foot, etc. at a pace that moves you forward.

What is your favorite thing about cycling? 

Favorite thing about cycling is that little kid feeling. My favorite thing about racing is the camaraderie and competition. I like knowing my competitors - that they have worked hard to be a good competitor, will give it their all to make the race a race, and that are good sports/people, too. We have a fantastic community!

Anything else you’d like to add? 

Just an offer to anyone that is interested in asking further questions to come out to a race and introduce yourself to me - or any of the other women cyclists. I cannot repeat often enough how fantastic a group we have in the Chicago area. See you out there!

Gapers Block Race Report

A Week of Racing: Gapers Block Crits 2012
by Eleanor Blick

Women's Omnium Podium: Kristina Young (TATI) - 2nd, Eleanor Blick (Johnny Sprockets) - 1st, Robin Hoecker (Half Acre Cycling) - 3rd, and Sue Wellinghoff (xXx) - 4th (Photo by Amy Dykema)

I’ve tried crits in the past. After one good effort I always fade, then expend my remaining energy keeping pace through the accordion effect of cornering in a group. When pre-registration for the Gapers Block Crits sold out, I questioned participating if it meant potentially taking another woman’s spot.

But this past winter was a little different. Instead of working early mornings, finishing school and freelancing on weekends, my schedule allowed trying Pedaling With a Purpose, Core in Motion and Engine Building 101. Each class taught me so much about my strengths and weaknesses—the crits would be a great way to gauge what I learned and what to work on next.

My week’s not-so-secret goal was to help Kristina Young (TATI) place as high as possible, because she was close to having points for a cat 3 upgrade. Since road isn’t my main focus and I don’t have road teammates, I’m happy to work with other riders to gain experience, help them reach goals and help the sport grow.

In Monday’s race I was able to follow attacks, bridge gaps, help lead a successful four-person break with Kristina, Sue Wellinghoff (xXx) and Ellen Ryan (xXx), and give Kristina the lead-out that won the race! It was incredible. I couldn’t believe how strong I felt and how well we communicated to make a spontaneous plan work. I’m excited to take what I’ve learned from winter training, keep working hard and see how far it can take me during cyclocross season.

The pack stayed together the rest of the week. There were preme sprints, attempted breaks, attacks and some strung-out laps, but with so many strong riders it was impossible to make any move stick. It was great to race developed teams like TATI, xXx and Chicago Cuttin’ Crew to watch riders work together, try different strategies and see what worked and what didn’t. Every night I learned something from observing racers that influenced my riding the next night. I think we all did—racing got smarter and corners got faster as we became more comfortable riding in a group that averaged 38 riders a night. It was great to see different faces at the front of the pack as more riders took chances.

Tuesday and Thursday I attempted last-minute lead-outs that failed, setting myself up for absurdly long sprints to the finish. Luckily both finishes were into the wind, because I did spin out once trying to attack in a tailwind with my cyclocross gearing.

I stuck with the sprint both nights and it earned me enough points to take the overall top spot for the women, followed by Kristina, Robin Hoecker (Half Acre Cycling) and Sue. We’re all well on our way to upgrading this season after a week of well-attended racing. Thanks to Half Acre Cycling and all the teams for continued work to get more women into the sport!

CWBR Interview: Sandra Samman

Sandra Samman at Hopkins Cross 2010. (photo by Bill Draper)

Please introduce yourself.

Sandra Samman.  I have been racing for xXx  for 2 ½ years. Before racing I was an avid rock climber and had climbed around the world. Now my bikes are so needy and greedy they leave me no time for anything else.

How did you get started in cycling, and what disciplines do you do?

I was a basic short distance commuter. I would ride down to the lakefront and ride around.  At the end of the summer of '09, I began to venture out and go further and further. When I say venture out, I mean from North Ave to Montrose. I considered this quite the ride. Day by day, I went further and further. Riding from North Ave to the north end of the path was so daunting to me. The day I did it, for the 1st time, I felt so accomplished. This made me want more. I would see the “real” cyclists in their respective team kits riding and going so fast, deep down, I wanted to do that. I knew someone on xXx and they invited me to do the team ride. I went out and bought a road bike and SPD pedals. I picked up the bike on a Friday and fell over with the bike at almost every light on the way home. I did not know how to clip in and out. That night, I had a sleepless night fretting about the ride to Highland Park in the morning. I did the ride, fell over at lights, for I still was not good at clipping in and out. Through all, xXx made me feel comfortable. The beauty of the xXx team ride is a no-drop (editor's note: 'no-drop' means no one gets left behind) to Highland Park and everyone is great about welcoming new riders and helping them learn to ride in a group, offer advice and give you the occasional push if needed (or, in my case help me get off of them, when I fell into them). I became hooked after that, and wanted more. I now race Track, Cross and Road.  I just bought a mountain bike, so hoping to do more of that, too.

What is your favorite race (local, regional, or otherwise)?

Ahh, there are so many, how can I pick just one? One race I really enjoyed was Joe Martin Stage Race in Arkansas. It was my 1st stage race last year and I absolutely loved the experience. I will be going back to race this year. Locally, Galena was another amazing race weekend that xXx hosted. Sprinters Omniums and Thursday nights at the track are always a blast for me. Carpentersville Cx race: I love that course and it was my 1st big win.

 

How would you describe your racing style?

Not sure if I have a style yet for I am still fairly new to racing. Crits scare me, so I hold back a lot in them. I really need to conquer that issue, somehow. On the track I am fearless for some reason.

Who is your favorite racer and why?

I do not really have a favorite. There are so many that I admire for various reasons. There are even local racers I admire and look up to for all they have accomplished on the bike. I admire anyone who is willing to get out there and give it their all. The one thing that stands out to me are those who remain humble about it all. Humility is huge in my book. You start acting all cocky and all your success becomes a turn off.  

In your opinion, what are a few things that the women’s cycling community can do to strengthen itself and its presence in the local cycling scene?

I think we are doing a great job. The racing scene seems to be growing and growing. We now have a few women on the ICA, which will help all our voices get heard. I know my team as well as other teams are really spreading the word on cycling to other women and encouraging new women to try it out. So many teams are doing specific women clinics and trainings. I think by making racing seem less scary and more inviting, it will draw more women. We have to make sure we keep separate cat 4 fields, so beginners won’t hesitate to jump in.

What is your advice for a new woman cyclist?

Get on your bike and ride. We have all been where you are. I had never participated in an endurance sport before in my life, and this has given me the opportunity. When I started and would ride to Highland Park, the slight uphills would seem like mountains. Everyone would go forward, and I would fall off the back of the pack. Those mountains became hills and those hills are now bumps to me. The stronger you get the easier it becomes. Also, learn how to shift; it makes all the difference in the world.

What is your favorite thing about cycling?

Getting on my bike and just going for miles and miles. There is nothing like it. Anywhere a car can take you, your bike can as well. Also, it does not hurt that I can eat whatever I want all the time and it isn’t an issue thanks to the great aerobic benefits of cycling.  

Anything else you’d like to add? 

I am really looking forward to the 2012 racing season and racing with you all. I think a lot of people are going to come out real strong, since many have been able to train outside all winter. I am excited to see all the new women that are going to be racing for the 1st time. 

Gapers is Here!

Gapers Block Criterium Series, March 26th-29th

Road season is upon us! The Gapers Block criterium series starts this Monday, and boy-o-boy are we excited for it. Not only are there record numbers of ladies pre-registered for the event, but there will be some fantastic prizes and other perks available this year.

1st Place Woman Overall:
- 1 Specialized Propero Helmet from Johnny Sprockets

- ONE HOUR Massage from HPI

- 1 Kilo of CarboRocket 333
- Samples of Enzos Chamois Cream

2nd Place Woman Overall:
- 1 Set of Specialized Turbo Pro tires, from Specialized
- 1 Bike Tune-Up from Johnny Sprockets
- 1 Kilo of CarboRocket 333
- Samples of Enzos Chamois Cream

3rd Place Woman Overall:
- 1 Johnny Sprockets Gift Card
- 1 Mystery Item. Maybe a MANICURE?! Maybe a Multi-tool?
- 1 Kilo of CarboRocket 333
- Samples of Enzos Chamois Cream

Women Overall Best Attendance Raffle Winner:
- 1 Johnny Sprocket Tune-up
- 1 Set of Specialized Turbo Pro tires, from Specialized
- Samples of Enzos Chamois Cream

There will also be informal Q&A sessions on Monday and Tuesday nights where you can ask anything you want to ladies who have raced before. Seriously, NO question is too basic – we want you all to enjoy bike racing and training as an experience, and we WELCOME any questions that you may have.

Finally, for those women who race at Gapers Block, the University of Chicago Velo Club is offering discounts and refunds for you to race at the Monsters of the Midway Criterium on Saturday, May 12th.

Specifically, there will be a $5 refund for women who raced Gapers and PRE-REG for Monsters AND W4s can double into the W-Open for $5 (as opposed to the regular $10 fee). We will have flyers to pass about with details.

Hope to see you next week! Let the road season begin!!!

Dear Ladies, We Want You. Sincerely, The Gapers Block Crits

Gapers Blocks Crits Promotion! If you are a first time female entrant to this series and PREREGISTER, TATIcycles will give you a free pair of super dope Lake or Gaerne cycling shoes. First come, first served. MSRP $120-240. It's that simple.

 A message from Vanessa Buccella, secretary of the Illinois Cycling Association and member of Half Acre Cycling:

*please read in the voice of Barry White*

Dearest Ladies,

We hope we're not coming on too STRONG, but we wanted to let you know just HOW MUCH you get our gears going.  HOW MUCH we want your presence at the GAPER'S BLOCK CRITS March 26th-29th, Half Acre's practice race series, just for the beginners (women cat 3/4).

We'd SO LOVE to see your fast foxy selves spinning 'round our Calumet Park course,  that we have ALL KINDS of gifts to entice you, just you, ladies.

1. We've cut the price of racing in half, just for you. 4 nights of racing for ONLY $25! ALSO each night, PRE-REGISTERED RIDERS are eligible for a raffle drawing. So Register soon!!

2. Do the Men get a prize for all overall winner? NO. Do the ladies? YES, the Top 3 overall women get PRIZES thanks to Half Acre Cycling's many sponsors!

3. We know you love shoes! (At least this lady does!) Tati Cycles is GENEROUSLY giving away shoes the the first few pre-registered women, who have NEVER done the Gapers Crits before.  It's first come, first serve!! SO PRE-REG, and also you must actually race. 

4. We don't want to leave you in the cold after your race.  Not us. We want to cuddle after. We are having a special post-race chat/follow-up/Q&A just for the women, after the first 2 evening's races. We understand your needs to communicate AND we want to make sure you get the most knowledge out of your racing experience. 

5. We are here to give you what you need.  If you don't have a road bike, let us know. Does your friend want to race and not have one? Let us know.   We're not about to leave you hanging. Just contact us and we will do our best to hook you up!

6. If you race ALL FOUR nights, purchasing a day-of license each night, Half Acre Cycling will COVER the rest of the Annual USAC License Fee (total fee = $60).   An annual license is the gift that keeps giving b/c we know you'll want to race in the Illinois Cup next!

7.  Your race starts at 6:50 pm, because we know you have a lot on your plate, and we want to give you plenty of time to get to the park.

8. FINALLY we want you to be prepared, like good girls scouts, so I divulged all of my racing secrets.  Now you're ready to race your best crit, or first crit, ever.

What more could you ask for? We want to be the most devoted bike race series we can be. If you aren't a Cat 3 or 4 any longer, if you have moved up the racing ladder, you can still spread the love to those women who are thirsting for the thrill of a bike race and just starting out. 

For more info or to register, click right here: https://www.bikereg.com/Net/15540.   Registration opens March 1st at 12 am in other words tonight (2/29) at midnight!!

And, please, ask us anything, ANYTHING about this race or heck, even races in general. We are an open book.

See You March 26th!

Much Love From Vanessa &  Half Acre Cycling