Happy Le Tour de France Season!

Tuesday/Thursday Club Rides

  Rides start promptly at 6:00 PM from RRB in Lake Geneva.  Please wear your helmets and leave your ear buds at home.  We roll along the quiet, low traffic back roads weaving about South East Wisconsin for a couple hours, more or less.  We leave en masse, but usually sort out into groups according to speed. However, no one gets left alone on the road.  

  This week we are doing on Tuesday Lake Geneva to Stateline and Mohawk on Thursday, July 16th .  Our Calendar and Routes can be found on the TREADHEADCYCLING web page at http://treadheadcycling.com

  WEATHER

Mackenzie's Story

  Previously, I shared a bit about Mackenzie, my Team Triumph  and the TreadHeads helping her experience a triathlon.  Frank Ludicky put together a super video detailing her story and capturing the spirit of the day.  You can watch it on YouTube here.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CnUXY00P9xY&feature=youtu.be  Apologies to Frank for the misspelling of his name in a previous post!  

Race Results

  Congratulations to Andrea Pether for her Wisconsin State Road Race title this past Sunday!  Also, a stellar weekend for Jack "Hammer" Spende for winning the Indy Crit and standing on the podium in third at the Wisconsin State Road Race.  Ross Giese secured a 6th place finish in the Cat 3 Masters 35+ State Road Race.  I do not have any details, but speculate Ross Adams was interviewing for a new gig as a Crash Test Dummy.  Hope you are healing well, Ross.  

 At The Scarlet Knight Scramble, Ray Nelson took 2nd in his age group and 4th overall.  Jerrod Collier was 7th in his age and 26th overall.  And atop the podium for the first time in her career.... drum roll please....Heather Rainer Peat!

Heather Rainer Peat

Post Ride Pool Party

I have a company scheduled to come out this week  to break up the concrete on the pool deck and repair the leak in my pool.  IF, and the way things have been working that is a big contingency, we get it taken care of I will be opening the pool to my fellow TreadHeads after the Thursday night club ride July 23rd. Stay tuned for detail. Let's hope for clear skies and good weather.  Oh, and suits are NOT optional!  

Le Tour de France

  Anyone else watching?  I find July to be the least productive month of the year. Holidays, so much to do and hours spent over 21 days in front of a screen watching emaciated spandex clad skeletons launch feather light carbon rides up insane grades in the Alps and Pyrenees.  It is an exciting Tour with no clear dominant racer.  

Keep the Rubber Side Down

Post Ride Pool Party

Tuesday/Thursday Club Rides

Post Ride Pool Party Thursday

Rides start promptly at 6:00 at RRB.  Helmets are required and we ask that you not wear ear buds.  These are "No Drop" Rides, but we do often split up into groups based on pace.  All of our routes are predominantly on the quiet, rustic, low traffic back roads around Lake Geneva.

 The specific routes can be found at our TREADHEADCYCLING web page.

  This Thursday, you are all invited for a swim at my house after the ride.  I know at least one rider, Ray Nelson, who wants to cut the ride short and arrive at my house around 7:00 PM.  I am providing the pool (no life guard) and you provide any food and or beverage you'd like.  Swim suits are required, it's a gentrified neighborhood.  ;-)    If you like, you can park at my house and ride into RRB, (It's 2.5 miles but does involve a big hill at the start.)  We are at W3490 Oakwood Drive  The weather is forecast to be a high of 77 degrees Thursday.  If you would please, let me know if you will be attending.

DIY Bike Wash July 4th at RRB

  Sorry you missed this one.  It was great to get the wheels off, have all the brushes, chain cleaning tools, and lubes to make our rides sparkle and extend the life of the drive train.  Hopefully Don Thomas at RRB will host another DIY Bike Wash so others can take advantage and give a little TLC to their rides.  

Bikes Cross Barriers....

Tuesday & Thursday Club Rides This Week

Tuesday night we will be doing Lyons, Tyres and Bowers, Oh My!  And Thursday is a favorite- Four Lakes!  Be there!  Rides start promptly at 6:00 from RRB.  We roll out together and once out of town, we tend to settle into some distinct groups.  But it is a group ride and no one gets left behind.  

The TreadHead Calendar can always be found here.

 RRB- DIY Bike Wash

  Don Thomas has all the tools to get your bike sparkling.  So, Saturday, July 4th, why not stop buy and take advantage of a chance to wash the road grime off your favorite ride?  I'd like to suggest that we first go get our bikes dirty.  Anyone up for a morning ride first?  We can meet at RRB at 7:30 AM for a ride before you head off to the lakes with your families,burn wienies on the grill, down cold PBR's  pool side, go watch stuff get blown sky high, or whatever your holiday plans may include.  

New Heroes 

  Rich and Mike Mennenoh are my two of my new heroes.  The Father/Son duo ground out a 99 mile mountain bike race at Lutsen Mountain Minnesota.  I can not do justice to their stories, but sure either one could regale you with the dedication,effort, commitment and down right fun sufferfest they experienced.  Ask Rich about leg cramps at mile 90 and what you do at that point.  Hint:  The Answer is found on our socks and jerseys!  

 
And I am sure there were lots of TreadHeads racing their bikes on the roads for TOAD, Tour of America's Dairy-land.  Regrettably, I am have no information to post at this time.  As always, I would love to share your results with your Biking Brethren, so please let me know.

But maybe the biggest hero is Mackenzie Wann.  Just a year ago, this young woman suffered a life changing injury.  Thanks to some very neat people, she was able to acquire an athletic chair that allows her access to a variety of experiences that had been closed to her this past year.  my Team Triumph, Wisconsin Chapter has a mission statement to enrich the health and well being of individuals with disabilities by fostering lasting, authentic relationships through the teamwork environment of endurance athletics.  Mackenzie, with her Team of Angels, was able to complete the RAM  Bigfoot Triathlon, sprint distance this past Sunday.  What a near perfect day.

You could hear the joy in her voice rolling past the lake, farms, wooded areas, views she has not seen much this past year.  So many others rolled past and shouted out their enthusiasm for her courage.  I think I can speak for Tara Trent, Ann Clausen, Andrea Pether, and Ross Giese in that it made us feel so proud to be TreadHeads, sharing with Mackenzie what we take for granted.  (And thanks to our TreadHead Media Specialist Frank Ludeke for capturing the event on camera!)  

Mackenzie has her own chair, and even her own TreadHead jersey.  So let's get her out on the road with us.  She is eager to go!  It is an easy process to attach her chair to a bike.  There are some things the cyclist has to be aware of, but it is an exhilarating experience for everyone.

Captain Mackenzie with Angel Andrea Pether

Tara Trent & Ann Clausen were Swim Angels

The Smile Says it All

Captain Mackenzie with her new THC jersey.  

Le Tour 

  This is a great time of year, due at least in part to this perennial classic.  Any one willing to go out on a limb and predict a winner?  A possible podium?  I am at a loss to say who has the best chance to win it and as such, think this will be a great year to follow the tour.  There is no one dominating rider or team, at least from what I can tell?  Why don't you put your favorites to win the GC, or any of the other competitions, in the comments below.  

Ride safe and keep the rubber side down.  

Shut Up & Ride... just thought that needed to be said!

General Musings

It's been a great week and weekend of riding, weekend weather notwithstanding.  But hey, it is weather, and every place has it, yet no one does anything about it!  Think of those who live in flooded areas or the Arizona Desert.  It ain't so bad here, is it?

  We are having a great turn out at club rides.  Let's keep it up, and try to get some new folks out to join us.  I get a visceral feeling that some may be intimidated by the length of our rides.  There is always a shorter option on our routes.  Any of us are happy to help you find where to break off.  And no one rides alone!  It is a club ride, not a race.  Sure some folks will ride fast.  That is a good thing.  And some not so fast.  That too is a good thing.

We have been rolling out as one big group.  Let's continue that practice.  We look good going through town that way, and the visibility is a reminder to drivers that there are cyclists on the roads around here.  And continue to talk to each other.  Point out road hazards, encourage each other, and make sure no one is in need of any thing.

  Some are finding cycling makes them both hungry and thirsty. People are going out post ride, so be advised and maybe keep some non spandex in your car????  And once and awhile in the summer, we are known to kickback in RRB's parking lot and have a cold one and some tacos from Super Mercado.

  By the way, I will be out of the Lower 48 for the next couple weeks.  Stay tuned to Facebook and TreadHeadCycling web page, especially the Calendar tab.  I do plan to offer up my swimming pool for a post ride soak after I return.  I'll let you know.

It Is Worth Repeating

  The National Bike is sponsoring a country-wide challenge for riders to log their miles on their cite.  The state with the most miles the end of summer wins!  Illinois TreadHeads, skip down to the next section.  I am encouraging Wisconsin riders only here.  ;-)   Last year, I am told, Wisconsin was the winner, so there is incentive to defend that title.   I am finding it a fun exercise to track my standing both locally and nationally.  If you want to play, here is the link.  

https://nationalbikechallenge.org/

my Team Challenge Wisconsin Chapter & Captain Mackenzie

  The Bigfoot Beach Triathlon is scheduled for June 28th.  my Team Challenge- Wisconsin Chapter is working hard to help Captain Mackenzie in her first triathlon.  If you would like to help out at the team tent, or volunteer to help the promoters with the event itself, please contact Gayle Harrigan at 262-745-7873, visit http://myteamtriumph-wi.org/volunteer/  or even message Gayle on the my Team, Triumph- Wisconsin Chapter Facebook page.  

Udder Century

  As I type this, there is a substantial group of TreadHeads battling the road, wind, hunger, thirst, fatigue and probably having a damn fine time! 

  And as I return to publish, it seems as if the threat of bad weather deterred most, if not all from the ride.  If I am wrong, share some photos or information about the ride with me.

WEMS Race at Alpine Valley

  Seems we have some gluttons for punishment among the TREADHEADCYCLING ranks.  (More on Mike "The Bishop"  below.)  Greg Clausen took 8th in the Six Hour Solo, while Ray Nelson was first with 8 laps and over 8K feet of climbing.  (Imagine what he might have done with lights?)  Kerry Gonzales did three laps in the Three Hour Solo race.  Jay-Rod Collier teamed up with Ernie Huerta for 2nd in the Six Hour Duo race.  Apologies to anyone I missed. 

 Butch Welke did his own enduro ride traveling to Chicagoland on his Fatty to ride in honor of veterans.  

Iron Man Mike

  

Mike "I rode more miles Saturday than you did all week" Bishop appears to have had a wonderful day.  He rode from Bloomington to Twin Lakes, approximately 167.  The motivation (or excuse as Mike seems to need no motivation to ride) was to honor his father who did a similar ride as a kid.  So, are we to assume the Madison to La Crosse ride the previous week was just a warm up Mike?  

Folks, do NOT let him pick the club ride routes!  We will never be back before dark!  Seriously, great job Mike.  You are an inspiration.  

His & Hers Clausen WORS CamRock Medals

Tuesday & Thursday Club Rides

  We meet, every Tuesday and Thursday, throughout the summer at RRB Bikes in Lake Geneva at 6 PM.  We have a series of routes on quiet, low traffic country roads.  Maps of these routes can be found at http://treadheadcycling.com/ride-routes/

  This week-  Tuesday, June 2nd   Four Lakes

  Thursday, June 4th : Bray Road

  Tuesday, June 9th: Lake Geneva To State Line

  Thursday, June 11th  Mohawk

  Once again we  had a super turnout, and great ride this past week. Lot of new faces and visitors.   We have other routes post on our web page at http://treadheadcycling.com/ride-routes/

  Tuesday & Thursday Weather 

Board Meeting:

  The TREADHEADCYCLING CLUB met this past Saturday morning.  Look for the minutes/agenda in an upcoming email.  

Meet Mackenzie

This past rainy Saturday, a few of us got to meet a remarkable young woman and share our passion for cycling with her.  Several TREADHEADS are going work with my Team Triumph-Wisconsin Chapter to help Mackenzie experience the joy and excitement of a triathlon June 28th at Bigfoot Beach State Park.  A special athletic chair is being built specifically for Mackenzie and should be ready on race day.  

The wind in our faces we curse or at least take for granted put a huge smile on Mackenzie's face.  I think it would be great if Mackenzie can join us for some Thursday night club rides, too.  Thanks to Chris Schmidt for bringing the opportunity to our attention.  It put a smile on my face for the rest of the day.  There are more pictures and a couple short videoes on the Team Triumph Facebook Page.  The Swimmers looked like a motor boat.  That too, was amazing to watch.  

  

Race Results

WORS- Cam-Rock  

D. Gage Photograhpy

  As results trickle in.... Heather Rainer Peat was 4th in her age, and 16th overall in the Women's Cat 3.  Kerry Gonzales won Sport Single Speed.  Henrique Lowe finished 6th while Dad, Andy Lowe suffered a DNF.  Greg Spende finished tenth for his age group and 72nd Overall in the Cat 2's.

  Greg & Ann Clausen both earned medals!  Way to Go!

  In the Elite Field, Ray Nelson finished 2nd in his age, and 11th Overall.  Mike "The" Bishop was 5th in 40-44 age group, and 49th Overall.   Jerrod Collier was 12th in his age category, 56th Overall. 

  Again, apologies to those I missed. Let me know, and I'll make amends!   

Some Recent Results from The Road;

Andrea Pether has put up some impressive results;  Remember, she is a TREADHEAD at heart.  

05/30/2015 - LAPT/Trek Midwest Road Race | RR | 19-29
3 / 6	475.76	Andrea Pether	343188		63	ISCorp Cycling p/b SmartChoice MRI
05/25/2015 - Concordia University Criterium p/b Team Velocause | CRIT | 19-29
3 / 9	154.83	Andrea Pether	343188		77	ISCorp Cycling p/b SmartChoice MRI
05/24/2015 - MOSH Criterium | CRIT | 19-29
1 / 7	152.35	Andrea Pether	343188		677	ISCorp Cycling p/b SmartChoice MRI
05/23/2015 - Palmyra Road Race | RR | 19-29
1 / 7	468.50	Andrea Pether	343188		104	ISCorp Cycling p/b SmartChoice MRI
05/17/2015 - Silver Lake Criterium | CRIT | 19-29
3 / 8	133.69	Andrea Pether	343188		462	ISCorp Cycling p/b SmartChoice MRI
05/16/2015 - Wheel & Sprocket Criterium | CRIT | 19-29
6 / 10	237.51	Andrea Pether	343188		593	ISCorp Cycling p/b SmartChoice MRI

Andy Schmidt;

05/25/2015 - Quad Cities Criterium | OMNI
1 / 17	-	Andrew Schmidt	303828		800	Hincapie Development team
05/25/2015 - Quad Cities Criterium | CRIT | Junior | 15-16
1 / 15	125.35	Andrew Schmidt	303828		177	Hincapie Development team
05/25/2015 - Quad Cities Criterium | CRIT
7 / 38	105.40	Andrew Schmidt	303828		239	Hincapie Development team
05/24/2015 - 37th Annual Melon City Criterium/ Rider Development | CRIT
3 / 44	93.55	Andrew Schmidt	303828		248	Hincapie Development team
05/23/2015 - Snake Alley Criterium | CRIT
1 / 42	96.76	Andrew Schmidt	303828		424	Hincapie Development team
05/23/2015 - Snake Alley Criterium | CRIT | Junior | 15-16
2 / 16	118.40	Andrew Schmidt	303828

MEMORIAL WEEKEND- Don't Forget to Ride

Tuesday Thursday THC Club Rides

  We meet, every Tuesday and Thursday, throughout the summer at RRB Bikes in Lake Geneva at 6 PM.  We have a series of routes on quiet, low traffic country roads.

  This week-  Tuesday, May 26th: Walworth Ride  

  Thursday, May 28th:  Lake Como Loop

  We had a super turnout, and great ride this past Thursday.  4 Lakes was new to many riders, and we will be making that route a Summer Regular.  We have other routes post on our web page at http://treadheadcycling.com/ride-routes/

  Tuesday & Thursday Weather 

Friday Night Cruiser Ride

  OK, where do we stand on these?  Are people interested and available?  Please note, those are two separate issues, right? ;-)  Let me know if there is interest and some leadership and I will be happy to post an itinerary.  

THC- Goals.  What is the purpose of our club?  

  The THREAD would like to hear from you about what you think the club is or should be all about.  But more importantly, our Board of Directors need to hear from you.  Please give this some thought and share your ideas, hopes, dreams and aspirations.  

  I became a member for the social aspect of riding in a group.  But that has evolved into much more for me over time.  What do you hope to benefit by being a TreadHead?  

Up Coming Events:

They're Tractors, On Sticks....

 It looks as if some TreadHeads had a good time, as always at The Black Hawk Bike Club's Back Roads Ride in Rockton this weekend.   Mark this next one on your calendars and start getting your miles in now to prep for this annual century.  McHenry County Udder Century  There are shorter distances available, too.  

  A group of TreadHeads are going to be helping a young woman experience the joy of participating in a triathlon.  There will be a get together next weekend to get acquainted with Mackenzie and learn how to transition her properly through the different disciplines.  And then we will be part of her team in the Big Foot Triathlon on June 28th.  If you are interested in more details, talk to Chris Schmidt. 

And speaking of Dr. Schmidt, I am sure he would love to clear his home of the new TreadHead kits. If you ordered one, please arrange to get yours picked up.  Yes, Chris, I am one of those guilty ones. I'll call you!  

  Steve Bappert is looking for people to join him this Wednesday for an informal ride. He will post details on Facebook, and I will update here.  Stay tuned.  

  Next Sunday, May 31st, is the WORS Battle of Camrock.    

Bike Tip:

  I am reading one of the best books I have ever read!  I won't bore you with details here, though am happy to talk with you about it if you care.  It has nothing to do with cycling, except that everything has to do with cycling!  It is Resilience, Hard Won Wisdom for Living a Better Life.  

  Wanna be a better cyclist?  Wanna ride faster? Ascend hills quicker?  Pull longer at the front?  Find the best lines on the trail?  Find a model!  Look to someone who does what you want to do.  Follow their lead.  Ask them how they got so good at what they do.  And I will tell you, it is not just that they have a nicer bike,  Bikes are just tools.  

  And of course, you are you, and your model/mentor is he or she.  But that does not mean you can't take their experience, ideas and style and make it your own so it works for you.  I think everyone has a strength, something we can learn from, And it is not just the fastest or the strongest for the longest who can be a role model.  Ride like someone may be watching, cuz they probably are!

Race Results:  

  There is still some heavy racing going on for one TreadHead over in Iowa at The Snake Alley Criterium and Burlington Road Races.  Here is a link to Andy Schmidt's USA Cycling Results.  I hope to have more details to report later, but it looks as if he won the Men's Cat 3 criterium and  his Hincapie Development Team represented the podium in the Juniors Race.

TreadHead Alum, now representing Team Novo Nordisk Development, Ezra Ward Packard scored fourth place racing in Cat 2 at Burlington Road Race in Iowa this weekend.   The link above is to Ezra's USA Cycling Page results if you would like to see how he has been doing.

  And it appears Andrea Pether is having some success somewhere riding for ISCorp.

As always, if you are racing, let me know so I can share your results with other TreadHeads.  

Tuesday/Thursday THC Club Ride

  Start from RRB in Lake Geneva each Tuesday and Thursday at 6 PM.  The routes vary around Lake Geneva, and are always on quiet, low traffic back country roads.  Distances vary from 20-35 miles.  

Friday Night Cruiser Rides

  These are casual fun rides on cruiser bikes.  People ride a variety of bikes on easy going rambles around local towns, and after an hour, adjourn for dinner and or drinks.  The location varies each Friday, but start at 6:30.  So far, we have been in Lake Geneva, Woodstock and Burlington.  

Rides, Races And Events

  You can see upcoming cycling events on previous posts of this blog, and of course there is usually discussion and new ride opportunities posted regularly on the TREADHEADCYCLING FaceBook page.