Mt Hopkins Mountain Bike Hill Climb
Elephant Head Mountain Bike Challenge
“Ride of Silence” Events Scheduled for Tucson & Green Valley on Wednesday, May 21st
Tour for Tucson’s Children 2008
Volunteers teach kids about bike repair
The Sierra Vista Spring Classic 2008 A New Ride with a Bright Future!
Tucson Bicycle Classic revived in 2008!
Where to Be on Your Bike When Making a Turn
Hill Climbing: Important to Help Make You a Complete Cyclist!
Welcome, New & Renewing Members!
TTM Coached Training Rides a Success !
5-Year Plan Committee Meeting Report
2008 State-Wide Bicycle Events Calendar
GABA-Tucson Cancellation Policy
Proof of GABA-Tucson Membership
(See related articles in this issue for details.)
Ride Date Ride Name Organizers Leaders E-Mail
5/3 & 4 Salt River Canyon Ride GABA-Tucson Carolyn Audilet caudilet@cox.ne
5/3 (Sat) Sedona Century Bike Tour Absolutes Bikes www.absolutebikes.com
5/3 (Sat) Elephant Head Mtn Bike Challenge Xtreme Bikes www.xtremebicycling.com
5/9 (Fri) Mt Lemmon Hill Climb GABA-Tucson Judy Bolt overnights@bikegaba.org
5/18 (Sun) Santa Fe Century Santa Fe Century Committee www.santafecentury.com
5/24-26 Luna Lake Bike Tour GABA-Tucson Pam Cullop socialdirector@bikegaba.org
6/1 (Sun) Mt Hopkins Mtn Bike Climb GABA-Tucson Tom Ward tomwardassociates@hughes.net
6/21 & 22 Escape to the High Country GABA-Tucson Suzanne Couvrette
update-editor@bikegaba.org
7/4 (Fri) Tour for Tucson’s Children City Parks & Rec.
7/12 & 13 White Mountain Tour PMBC Phx www.sportsfun.com
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Monday, May 5 at 7 PM
Tonight, we have the pleasure of having with us
Steve Wilson Jr. who will be speaking
about photography and cycling.
He will cover the basics of photography,
the differences between film and digital,
and finally, how to shoot cyclists
in a fun and appealing way.
Learn how photographers create
the shots you see in the magazines
and possible ways for you to create
similar-looking images.
Public Welcome!
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May 3 & 4, 2008
85 mi per day with all the hills or 65 mi per day with fewer hills
Join us for the spectacular scenery and challenging hills of the Salt River
Canyon. With over 8500 feet of climb on the 1st day, this ride is for strong,
experienced riders.
OPTIONS:
Choose the full 85 scenic hilly miles (90 if you stay at the campground), or a
reduced 65-mile easier course. The full course takes you from the mining town of
Globe up through desert vistas into pine trees, and the open vistas of the rocky
canyon. The shorter version includes a 20-mile shuttle to eliminate about 3000
feet of climbing out of Globe on the first day. Both options include the curvy
steep descent to the bottom of the canyon, climbing up and up on the other side,
a downhill to Carrizo Creek and the final rolling climb in the pine trees into
Show Low.
On the 2nd day, the course may be shortened by a shuttle to Carrizo Canyon, or
shorter-version cyclists can tackle the full 85 miles and 5000 feet of climbing.
If you want to ride the shorter version with fewer hills, but still a good
“scenic” workout, contact Carolyn Audilet, (520) 834-3801 or caudilet@cox.net to
reserve your seat. Seating is limited.
Riders! Be aware of possible very low temperatures in northern Arizona! They had
a dusting of snow out of Show Low in 2007!
The average low in Show Low for early May is 34 degrees F,
with the record of 4!
Bring warm clothes, particularly for the start of the second day.
Riders may drop off their excess garments in GABA-provided,
labeled bags at any of the SAG stops.
STARTING PLACE & TIME:
Meet in Globe between 6:30 and 7 AM on Saturday morning at the Gila County
Courthouse at 1400 E. Ash Street, just east of Jack in the Box. Load your duffle
bag in the baggage vehicle and pick up your map & ride instructions. Start
riding as soon as you’re ready, no later than 7 AM! Baggage van will depart by
7:15 AM.
SAG SUPPORT:
SAG #1 will be 20 mi into the ride. This portion of the ride includes gradual
climbing.
SAG #2 at the top of Salt River Canyon (40 miles into the ride), will provide
lunch.
SAG #3 is be located 20 miles further at the Chevron station, Carrizo Junction.
It is important to re-hydrate yourself at each sag stop, even if you don’t feel
thirsty. Consumption of enough calories over the course of the day will help you
feel strong until you reach your destination.
Ride Fee: Pre-registered Riders: GABA/ABC members: $85; Non-members: $100.
DAY OF EVENT Riders: GABA/ABC members: $100; Non-members: $115.
Fee includes camping at Fool’s Hollow State Pk in Show Low; baggage transport; 3
sag stops each day; sag vehicles on the route; maps & riders instructions.
Helmets are mandatory.
RIDE LEADERS: Scott & Carolyn Audilet, (520) 834-3801 or caudilet@cox.net. Rest
stop and sag vehicle volunteers are needed. Earn GABA bucks toward ride entry or
other items! Contact Carolyn if you or your friends and family want to help.
SALT RIVER BIKE TOUR MOTEL LIST
In Globe: In Show Low:
El Rey: (928) 425-4427; Sleep Inn: (928)532-7323 Pool Spa brkfst Economy Inn:
(928) 425-5736; Kiva: (928) 537-4542. Jacuzzi;
El Rancho Motel: (928) 425-5757; Best Western Paint Pony: (928) 537-5773;
Motel 6: (928) 425-5741; Days Inn: (928) 537-4356;
Comfort Inn: (928) 425-7575; Motel 6: (928) 537-7694;
Super 8: (928) 425-7124; Holiday Inn: (928) 537-5115;
Days Inn: (928) 425-5500; Thunderbird : (928) 537-4391.
Travelodge: (928) 425-7008.
SALT RIVER CANYON RIDE
PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
May 3 & 4, 2008
(ONE FORM PER RIDER)
Photocopies accepted. Please fill out all blanks
Leader: Carolyn Audilet, (520) 207-6132
or caudilet@cox.net
Return this Form & your check to:
GABA P. O. Box 43273, Tucson, AZ 85733
Options chosen: (Please circle) 85mi 65mi
Motel ___________________ Camping _____
Vegetarian: Yes No (SAG stops food/meal)
PRE-REGISTRATION FEE:
GABA/ABC Members: $ 85 $
Non-members: $100 $
DAY-OF-EVENT:
GABA/ABC members: $100 $
Non-members: $115 $
Total money enclosed: $
I AM currently a GABA/ABC member: YES NO
NAME
(print)__________________________________________
ADDRESS_______________________________________
CITY_______________________ ZIP ________________
PHONE ________________________________________
E-Mail__________________________________________
CPSC-approved helmets mandatory.
STAPLE your SIGNED WAIVER to each form.
Forms & Waivers cut with scissors are appreciate
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May 24, 25, 26. 2008
Spend Memorial Day Weekend cycling a moderately difficult ride on some of the
least traveled roads
Day 1: 48 Miles: Springerville, AZ to Quemado, NM
Pre Registered Riders will begin “Check In” at 8 AM. “Day of Event” riders will
check in after the pre-registered group is nearly completed; a good reason to
sign up early!
Check-in is located in the Safeway parking lot (crossroads of Airport Rd and
Mountain Ave), next to the Chinese restaurant. Park your vehicle for the weekend
in the lot closest to our set up location. A lunch stop (SAG 2) is located just
before a cyclist’s dream: an 8-mile fast descent into Quemado!
Camping and showers are located at Quemado High School (follow GABA signs to the
back of the school lot). An optional group dinner on Saturday evening and
Sunday’s optional group breakfast will be served by the members of the girls’
volleyball team in the new cafeteria located in the back of the school. Both
meals must be prepaid with your ride fee total.
F. Y. I.: Group meals prepared by the Volleyball Team are a fund raising effort
to assist needy members attend VB Camp. Qualifying members will be granted 80%
of the monies needed to pay for tournament rooms, travel and food. Fund Raising
monies also pay for tournament achievement awards. Ordering your meals at
Quemado School is a great way to help support the team to achieve these goals.
This year’s dinner will be authentic (prepared by local Italian chefs) lasagna,
and promises to be an excellent meal!
Day 2: 55 Miles: Quemado, NM to Reserve, NM
Pedal on lightly traveled roads through the Gallo Mountains. The morning stop
(SAG 1) is at the top of the climb. Then be prepared for a thrilling descent
into Apache Corners for lunch (SAG 2)! Continue on to Reserve, our destination
for the day.
THE OPTIONAL SIDE TRIP (32 ROUND-TRIP MILES) TO THE CONTINENTAL DIVIDE IS NOT
OFFICIALLY PART OF THE ROUTE. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO ENTER YOUR NAME ON THE
“SIGN-UP” SHEET PROVIDED AT SAG #2. YOU MUST DEPART SAG #2 FOR THIS SIDE TRIP NO
LATER THAN NOON.
Campers will stay at the Village Park, across from the high school, on San
Francisco St. Showers will be at the Rode Inn. Optional group dinner on Saturday
evening, and Sunday morning will be served in the Community Center, located
across the street from the high school, just down the road a bit from the park.
Both meals must be prepaid with your ride fee total. (Gourmet meals catered by
The Adobe Café & Bakery are “out of this world”, and well worth the price!)
Day 3: 63 Miles: Reserve, NM to Springerville, AZ
Most challenging day! After the day’s major climb, relax and enjoy the view from
Luna Summit at SAG 1! With a bit more climbing after you get “back on the
saddle” – you are on your way to the AZ/NM border via spectacular vistas.
Lunch (SAG 2) is located off of the main highway at the Luna Lake picnic
grounds. For those who need to refuel (light food) or re-hydrate (water &
Gatorade), a 3rd SAG stop will be near the boat ramp at Luna Lake dam, near the
base of the last climb of the day located. Ride back to your car, and drive over
to the Rode Inn if you’d like to clean up before driving back home; two “shower
rooms” have been reserved for this purpose.
Fee Includes:
- Luggage transport for 3 days;
- 2 SAG stops w/food & water on each day; a 3rd SAG stop added on Day 3; -
Camping & Showers at Quemado High School on Saturday;
- Showers at Rode Inn Motel & Camping at Village Park in Reserve on Sunday; -
Sweep vehicle throughout the course for all 3 days;
- and end-of-the-ride showers on Monday at the Rode Inn in Springerville.
Register as soon as possible to assist us in preparing a well-supported ride.
Meal hosts request a “head count” 2-weeks in advance of the ride for meal
preparations. Please register early; if you wait too late, you may not be able
to purchase a meal!
New this year – an Espresso Wagon in Reserve! Bring a little extra pocket change
if a pre-breakfast cup of espresso or herbal tea sounds like something that will
“hit the spot” while waiting for breakfast. The Little Adobe Café will be
serving espresso, herbal tea & pastries outside the community center a half hour
before breakfast. (Or for those who ride on an empty stomach: an opportunity for
a morning boost!) We are Soooo Spoiled!!!!
Leader:
Pam Cullop, (520) 290-4321 (H), (520) 271-6678 (M), or socialdirector@bikegaba.org.
PRE-REGISTRATION FEE:
GABA/ABC Members: $85 Non-Members: $100
DAY-OF-EVENT FEE:
GABA/ABC Members: $100 Non-Members: $115
OPTIONAL MEALS MUST BE PREPAID WITH RIDE FEE
Dinner in Quemado $9.50 Breakfast in Quemado: $ 7.50
Dinner in Reserve: $15.00 Breakfast in Reserve: $10.00
MOTEL LIST:
Springerville: Rode Inn: 877-220-6553 Super 8 Motel: 800-800-8000
Quemado: Allison: 505-773-4550
(Room #1 set up for multiple guests w/4 twin beds & 1 double; ideal for “ride
buddies”).
Allegre: 505-773-4520
(Closed for winter, may reopen before Memorial Weekend– keep trying).
Kabin Fever Komfort: 505-773-4949 (New- B&B Trailer)
Reserve: Rode Inn: 505-533-6661
Hidden Springs Inn: 505-533-6146
or www.thehiddenspringsinn.com
(Hidden Springs will provide shuttle after Sunday’s ride into Reserve, and back
again for dinner that evening. Ask about shuttle service when making room
reservations.)
Menus for meals in Quemado:
Sat, May 24, Dinner 4-6 PM Sun, May 25, Breakfast 5:30-6:30 AM
Lasagna (Meat & Vegetarian); Scrambled eggs; Bacon; Toast;
Salad w/ Ranch or Italian Dressing; Cold Cereal;
Garlic Bread; Pancakes w/maple syrup;
Yellow & Chocolate sheet cakes; Oatmeal w/optional toppings;
Lemonade or Tea; Apple & Orange Juice;
Coffee (Reg & Decaf); Coffee, Tea (Reg or Decaf);
$9.50 Per Person $7.50 Per Person
Menus for meals in Reserve:
Sun, May 25, Dinner 4-6 PM Mon, May 26, Breakfast 5:30-6:30 AM
Chick & Shrimp w/linguini cream sauce Sautéed Mushroom & Cheese Omelet;
Black Bean Linguini (Veg. Meal); Turkey Sausage Links;
Caesar or Green Salads; Breakfast Potatoes;
Baked Breads incl. Whole Grain; Fresh Pastry Platter;
Fruited Shortcake/Chocolate Cake; Fresh Fruit Salad;
Raspberry & Regular Teas; Whole Grain Bread;
Fresh Squeezed Lemonade; Excellent Coffee; Juice & Herbal Tea;
$15 Per Person $10 Per Person
LUNA LAKE BIKE TOUR
PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
May 24, 25 & 26, 2008
(ONE FORM PER RIDER)
Photocopies accepted. Please fill out all the blanks.
Ride Leader: Pam Cullop, (520) 290-4321
or socialdirector@bikegaba.org
Return this form & your check to: GABA
P.O. Box 43273, Tucson AZ 85733
Option chosen: (Please circle):
Motel _________ Camping _______ (Bring towel & soap)
Vegetarian: Yes No (for SAG stops/Meals)
PRE-REGISTRATION FEE:
GABA/ABC Members: $ 85.00 $______
Non-Members: $100.00 $______
Dinner, Quemado: $ 9.50 $______
Breakfast, Quemado $ 7.50 $______
Dinner, Reserve: $ 15.00 $______
Breakfast, Reserve: $ 10.00 $______
DAY OF EVENT:
GABA/ABC Members: $100.00 $______
Non-Members: $115.00 $______
Total money enclosed: $______
I AM currently a GABA member: Yes No
NAME:
(print)____________________________________________
ADDRESS:_________________________________________
CITY:__________________________ ZIP _______________
PHONE: _________________________________________
E-MAIL ___________________________________________
CPSC-approved helmets are mandatory.
STAPLE your SIGNED WAIVER to each Form.
Forms & Waivers cut with scissors are appreciated!
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Friday, May 9, 2008
Check-in will run from 5:45 AM til 7 AM at McDonald Park, on Harrison north of
Catalina Hwy.
GABA is pleased to offer the 16th annual edition of the Mt. Lemmon Hill Climb on
May 9th this year. The road is in great shape and offers one of the finest road
bike rides anywhere in the world. The 4.5% average grade allows for a
challenging ascent without using extremely low gearing, and a descent that
requires little or no braking.
This year, we will have 3 leapfrogging sags covering 4 sag stops with longer
hours. We have recommended start times depending on your average speed to insure
that you'll find the Team at each of the stops. Try to follow these guidelines
if you want support all the way up.
The sag stops schedule is as follows:
Sag 1: Molino Basin 7 to 9:30 AM.
Sag 2: Bear Canyon 8 to 11 AM.
Sag 3: San Pedro Vista 9 to 12 PM.
Sag 4: Loma Linda 10 to 1 PM.
Recommended start times, depending on your average climbing speed, are:
6 AM for 4 MPH; 6:30 AM for 5 MPH; 7 AM for 7 MPH; and 7:30 AM for 9 MPH. If you
average these speeds with these start times and spend 15 minutes at each sag
stop, you'll get to each one during the times they're open. The sags stops are
approximately 6 miles apart.
Fees to cover sag cost is $7 in advance, and $10 on the day of the ride. Our
website, www.bikegaba.org has Registration Forms. Help make our volunteers' job
easier: register early.
If you’ve thought about trying to make it all the way to the top but never have,
this is a great time for a big first attempt. The excellent sag support
eliminates the need for carrying extra food and fluids, and the camaraderie
along the way is a great inspiration. Every year, we’ve had at least one rider
make it to the top for the first time - it’s a worthy achievement!
Optional lunch at Summerhaven’s Cafés in Summerhaven or at the Iron Door
restaurant (Ski Valley). Count on about $10-15 for lunch depending on your
appetite. Pies at the Mt. Lemmon Café in Summerhaven are always very good.
The descent this year is as sweet as ever, with an almost continuous 21-mile
downhill shot from Bigelow Rd. to the base. Round trip to Ski Valley is 56
miles, with 6,600 feet of elevation gain.
Check the weather forecast and be prepared. Rain is unlikely in early May, but
you don’t want to be surprised at 8,000 feet. We hope to see you on the ride!
Contact for more info: Judy Bolt, 512-0442, or overnights@bikegaba.org.
Contact for more info: Judy Bolt, 512-0442, or
overnights@bikegaba.org.
MT LEMMON HILL CLIMB
PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
Friday, May 9, 2008
(ONE FORM PER RIDER)
Photocopies accepted. Please fill out all the blanks.
Contact: Donna Lewandowski, 205-8309
or president@bikegaba.org
Return this form & your check to:
GABA P. O. Box 43273, Tucson, AZ 85733
Your Starting time: (please circle)
6 AM 6:30 AM 7 AM 7:30 AM
PRE-REGISTRATION FEE: $ 7 $_____
DAY OF EVENT FEE: $10 $_____
Total money enclosed: $_____
I AM currently a GABA member: YES NO
NAME
(print)________________________________________
ADDRESS_____________________________________
CITY_____________________ ZIP _______________
PHONE ______________________________________
E-Mail________________________________________
CPSC-approved helmets are mandatory.
STAPLE your signed WAIVER to each Form.
Forms & Waivers cut with scissors are appreciated!
Sunday, June 1, 2008
This ride is not for the faint of heart! It will require all the strength that
your legs have, and then some! Imagine climbing 5,000 feet on a fairly steep
dirt road for the first 7 miles, then continuing on a steeper paved road for the
last 5 miles to the summit where the grade gets very steep for the last 1/4
mile! Come enjoy this ride and find out for yourself if it really is that hard!
Meet at 6 AM at Whipple Visitor Center.
Directions: from Tucson, drive south on I-19 past Green Valley. Exit at Canoa
Rd. and continue south on the EAST frontage road to Elephant Head Rd. Turn LEFT
here and continue for a mile or so until you see Hopkins Rd. Turn RIGHT on
Hopkins Rd. and continue up this road about 6 miles until you reach Whipple
Visitor Center.
Park your car here and drag your mountain bike out: you are about to find out
what mountain biking is all about! Bring plenty of WATER and energy food! Don’t
forget the rewards of fantastic 360 degree views at the top, as you sweat and
grind mile after mile! And, don’t go too fast downhill: watch for the occasional
car coming up.
Ride leader: Tom Ward, tomwardassociates@hughes.net or (520) 625-3649.
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Saturday, May 3, 2008
Come join in a great mountain biking event. This route is a 16-mile course
through the Coronado National Forest. You will cycle over little-traveled roads
and remote trails across the Santa Rita Mountains. The course is challenging and
varied, with sections of flat and packed dirt, to some moderately technical
singletrack riding.
The event begins at 8 AM at the Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory Visitor Center
Trail Head. This is a fun event for cyclists as well as the spectators, so bring
the family. Enjoy the fantastic scenery as well as the camaraderie of fellow
riders.
Finish times will vary greatly, from last year’s first place finish in 1 ¼
hours, to that of the final rider to complete the course in just over 4 hours.
This event is fully supported, including food and water along the route and at
the finish line, as well as mechanical and emergency aid volunteers. All net
proceeds go to Elephant Head Fire Rescue.
If you have any questions, please e-mail them to: xtremebikesnogales@yahoo.com.
You can find more information and download an application at:
www.xtremebicycling.com.
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By Dennis Leiker and Carole Leiker
Funny thing about age, it seems to lie dormant in your minds’ eye. As you go
through the day your mind plays tricks on you, you may be 40 on the outside, but
inside, you are still that 20 year old that could power Twinkies and Dr Pepper
for breakfast. Then one day you decide to step on a scale and Ugh! When did that
happen? Darn Reality! After the shock and awe of that extra 30 lbs you just
found, there is your normal chain of events.
First, there’s running-a fast and cheap fix. “I am getting up in the morning and
running 5 miles, it’s going to be a new me”! Normally after 5 days of trying get
up and out at 5 in the morning, you make it about a block before you walk back
home with swollen knees and a side ache. Come on ibuprofen, do your magic.
Second is the gym membership. That one is good for the first workout. The gym
membership is expensive, however it’s the 3 missed days of work because you
can’t get out of bed that costs more. Somehow that gym makes you jump from the
realization that you are 40 to feeling 70.
Third. Getting on the bicycle. Ahh the bike. The memories of being a kid and
riding your bike to your best friends house on summer break. Your own
transportation to anywhere you wanted to go. A kid’s independence. At any age
the bicycle is a magic machine. It is low impact, so no swollen knees; it is a
great escape from all the pressure and stress of life. On more than one ride, I
have gotten lost in the moment, transfixed on the scenery and the road. Deep in
thought, I’m pretty sure that I have cured the world’s problems on some rides.
For some reason, I can’t seem to remember what the cure was after the ride, but
I’m sure I had the answers. Well more reason to keep riding …
Bicycles now have a wealth of technology in them. They weigh less, are
engineered to be incredibly comfortable and though they seem expensive at first
glance, break that price down over 5 years or more of enjoyment and they cost
much less then a gym membership.
There are some important things to consider about cycling: 1) Your sit bones
will deaden after a couple of weeks, so that seat won’t be the enemy for long;
2) Ride slow and easy, you will burn more fat and get in shape faster if you
ride easy and often, rather than go out and hammer yourself on every ride; 3)
Some bikes have up to 30 speeds. Ride what is comfortable, if you like the gear
you are in, that’s the gear for you. Shifting will become intuitive later, just
ride! 4) Concentrate on the contact points for comfort, good shorts with a
quality pad, good gel gloves and a comfortable pair of shoes.
And now, above all, remember that there are riders of every level out there, so
be kind when you ride! Don’t pass on the right, it might scare that beginner
right off the road, or worse, cause them to crash. When you are approaching a
rider, and you are passing on their left, remember to announce yourself and give
them plenty of room. It only takes a couple of encounters with inconsiderate
cyclists to turn a fun ride into a nightmare outing for the beginning cyclist.
It only takes a couple of moments, and a couple of words to be a considerate
rider so everyone can have fun. Spring has sprung. Go ride, have fun, and be
kind!
Dennis Leiker is the owner of Redhawk Bicycles in Temecula, California. He takes
advantage of any excuse to visit and ride with his sister Carole Leiker, most
recently mountain biking at 24 Hours In The Old Pueblo.
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by Brian Beck
Local cyclists are invited to join with others throughout the world on a Ride of
Silence on Wednesday, May 21st. Silent processions will be held in Tucson and
Green Valley that day to honor those who have been injured or killed while
cycling on public roadways, and to raise awareness about sharing the road
legally and safely.
The Ride of Silence originated in Dallas in 2003. It is now held in hundreds of
communities throughout the world on the 3rd Wednesday in May. The event is free
and there is no registration. It is open to anyone with a bicycle, and a helmet
is required.
Participants are asked to obey traffic laws and ride together in silence at no
more than 12 mph with respect and gratitude for their rights to the road. Riders
are encouraged to wear a black armband to honor cyclists who have died while
riding, or a red armband to honor those who have been injured. The armbands are
suggested but not necessary.
The local rides have been endorsed by GABA-Tucson, the Perimeter Bicycling
Association of America, the League of American Bicyclists, the Brad P. Gorman
Memorial Bikeway Fund, and the Tucson-Pima County Bicycle Advisory Committee.
Tucson’s Ride of Silence will begin at 6 p.m. at Sears Park on 14th Street at
Wilmot Road, just south of Park Place Mall. Local officials will be on hand to
start the ride with words of encouragement and a police escort will accompany
riders and stop motor traffic at intersections. Riders will proceed south on
Wilmot to 22nd Street, west to Randolph Way, north to Broadway, east to Wilmot,
and south to the park. The 9-mile ride will take about an hour. For more
information about the Tucson ride, contact Brian Beck at
coyotes@cox.net or Jean Gorman at
prairiejean@aol.com.
The 7-mile Green Valley ride will start at 6 PM at the Green Valley Recreation
East Center. Riders will head west on Esperanza, north on La Canada, east on
Duval Mine Road and south on Abrego back to the East Center. It will be led by
local bicyclists Jim Jordan and Bill Adamson with assistance from the Pima
County Sheriff Department. For information about the Green Valley ride, contact
Bill Adamson at billadamson@cox.net.
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July 12th and 13th, 2008
Sponsored by Phoenix Metro Bicycle Club
This tour has been attracting participants from out of state, as well as
in-state riders for more than 20 years and has become a favorite for many.
Temperatures ranging from the low 60’s to the mid 80’s, great support for the
riders and Saturday night’s dinner social make this ride one you will want to do
again and again!!
The White Mountain Tour is a 2-day fully supported Tour and includes sag
support, emergency mechanical support, plenty of good snacks and luggage
delivery to your hotel or campsite. Saturday night’s dinner and a raffle ticket
are also included in the entry fee.
Tour Fee is $50. for GABA/ABC members; $55. for non-members. A $10. late fee
applies after June 27th.
Saturday’s dinner (included in entry fee) will be served from 1-3 PM. Non-riders
and family members can purchase dinner for an additional fee (TBD). This year
the dinner has been moved to Ramsey Park in Eager and will be served as the
riders finish.
Free camping on Saturday night including showers and bathroom facilities at
Round Valley Middle School in Eagar. For those wanting the more comfortable
confines of a motel room, make your reservations at one of those listed on our
website: www.sportsfun.com; luggage will be delivered by 2 PM.
Luggage Pickup will start at 8 AM on Sunday for the return trip.
The Start & Route: Start & finish at Hon-Dah Resort and Casino (parking and
registration behind the hotel) located at the intersection of AZ highways 73 and
260 south of Pinetop. Registration on Saturday is 7 till 8:30 AM. No mass start.
Ride North on Hwy 260 through Pinetop/Lakeside to Show Low. In Show Low turn
East onto Hwy 60 then to the Midway Station Sag Stop in Vernon. Total mileage
for Day 1: 63 miles.
For those hardy enough, we are planning an Optional Loop of 40 miles: you will
have the option of doing a Full Century or a traditional Metric Century on Day
one.
Day 2: start 8 AM. The return SAG stop will be set up at 8:30 AM near Sunrise
Ski Resort. From there, it’s mostly down hill back the start for the day’s total
of about 38 miles.
Make checks payable to Phoenix Metro Bicycle Club.
Mail Registration Form and check to:
Phoenix Metro Bicycle Club
P. O. Box 26788, Tempe, AZ 85285-6788
For more information, contact Jay Stewart, afternoons and evenings, at
480-250-1613.,
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Friday, July 4th
The Tour for Tucson’s Children was created in response to the passage of the
1994 Bicycle Helmet Ordinance. At the time, we were concerned with the
inevitable need to provide helmets for low-income youth.
The Tucson Parks & Rec Department and Tucson Fire Department were already
actively involved in a bicycle safety program. As a result of both departments’
commitment to Childhood Injury Prevention Programs, the staff from both these
departments became the event organizers and have continued to manage the Tour
since its inception. GABA has been a strong and active supporter of the event.
START/FINISH:
The start/finish line for all events is in front of the Tucson Convention
Center, on Church Street. This is also where the venue is located. On site
registration, packet pick up and refreshments are all located in the venue.
COURSE:
The 6½ & 10-mile rides take you through downtown and along the Santa Cruz River
path. The 27-mile ride takes you west along Mission, Irvington, Valencia before
returning downtown. Participation medals are handed out to all event
participants.
Kids event is free and includes ½-mile kids ride, Jumping Castle, Obstacle
Course, Arts & Crafts Project, Face Painting and Carnival Games.
STARTING TIMES: (no late starts)
27-mile challenge 6:00 AM start
3-mile Run/Walk 6:05 AM start
6½-mile Family Ride 6:45 AM start
3-mile Fun Run/Walk 7:30 AM start
½-mile Kid’s Ride (6 and under) and activities
RIDE FEE:
Adults 16+: $15 (on or before 6/20, $20 after 6/20)
Youth Under 15: $10 (on or before 6/20, $15 after 6/20)
PACKET PICKUP:
June 30th: 9 AM-4 PM @ 900 S. Randolph Way and at the venue on 7/4, starting at
5 AM. Proceeds benefit Tour for Tucson’s Children Program Fund. Registration
forms are available at www.tucsonaz.gov and at www.active.com. For more
information, call Marci or Alfonso at 791-4969, alfonso.romero@tucsonaz.gov or
marci.gregg@tucsonaz.gov.
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By Judy Bolt
Annie Londonderry was in Tucson last weekend; in photos, 100+ year old lantern
slides and most importantly in spirit! You may know that Annie was the first
woman to bicycle around the world and, as part of that excursion; she cycled
into Tucson in June of 1895. Peter Zheutlin, Annie’s great grand nephew, was
here to bring Annie and her journey to life.
On April 5, cyclists met at Christopher Columbus Park, with others joining the
group at Joaquin Murietta Park. Thirty riders, clad in Lycra rather than
Annie-like pantaloons, proceeded south into downtown Tucson, much as Annie did
nearly 113 years ago.
We stopped by the AZ Historical Society’s Stone Avenue location to stand at the
actual registration counter of the Orndorff Hotel, where Annie registered as
“Annie Londonderry Globe Girdler” all those years ago. Next stop was the Stone
Avenue Temple, the first Jewish Temple in Arizona, a beautifully restored
building full of history.
As we cycled to the Presidio, a recreation of Presidio San Agustin del Tucson, a
canon shot blasted through the air. We were greeted by people in period costumes
demonstrating life on 18th century streets. A serenade by a period brass band
concluded the morning ride.
Special thanks to both the AZ Historical Society and the Stone Avenue Temple for
opening especially for cyclists and to all 3 locations for providing secure
places for bicycle parking. Special kudos to GABA members Debra Harms, Melinda
Correll and Dede Seder who helped with registration and keeping the cyclists
together in a group.
At GABA’s regular meeting on Monday 7 April, Peter Zheutlin presented the full
picture of Annie’s trip around the world. Over 100 people attended. Peter
declared that it was one of the largest groups he’s spoken to and definitely the
most receptive! Thanks to all who attended to enjoy Annie’s story. If you missed
Peter’s outstanding presentation, you can learn more about Annie at
www.annielondonderry.com or by reading “Around the World on Two Wheels: Annie
Londonderry’s Extraordinary Ride” available at Antigone Books.
On April 8, there was another GABA ride. This time, 13 folks cycled from the
University of Arizona to the Jewish Community Center, where once again Peter
presented Annie’s story. Thanks to Dede Seder for her assistance on this ride
and for accompanying me on both reconnoiter rides.
These two GABA day rides were considerably different from most and attracted
several people who are not GABA members. Half of the group on Saturday and 85%
of the Tuesday group registered as “non-members”. All expressed enjoyment of the
rides and even made suggestions for similar ones. Many of us have used bicycles
to explore other cities in the USA and in foreign countries – why not Tucson?
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Do you remember being a child, and how sad it was when you couldn’t ride your
bike because it had a flat tire? Members of the Greater Arizona Bicycle
Association, helped by volunteers at Raytheon, have spent many hours of their
time showing members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Tucson new Boys Mentoring
Program how to repair their bikes.
The Mentoring Program started in February, and is for 11-14 year old boys from
all six Tucson Boys & Girls Clubs. The boys have committed a year of their lives
to take bi-weekly workshops on science, nature & technology, to participate in
mentoring sessions to help them with life goals, to review their grades and
school progress, and to go on science and nature field trips such as hiking or
the Desert Museum. The program is supported by Raytheon and private donations,
and has 45 participants – the main goals are to show these boys that education
can be fun, and to motivate them to stay in school.
At the bike repair workshops, the boys learned about bike safety, how to check
basics on their bike, and how to repair a flat tire. Then they broke into small
groups and worked with volunteers to fix whatever was wrong with their bike.
Many just needed tubes patched, but some had more major problems like wheel
alignment, brakes that didn’t work, or gears that wouldn’t shift. The volunteers
patiently worked with the boys, making sure that they did most of the work
themselves after some brief instruction. One boy was very sad that his bike may
not be repairable, but a volunteer took it with him promising to work on it at
home. Another boy was all smiles, and proudly held up 4 fingers to show people
how many patches they had to put on his tire tube.
Volunteers show Boys & Girls Club Mentoring Program Members how to repair bikes
The benefit that these boys get from this program goes way beyond just fixing
their bikes. One session discussed the Tour de Tucson – the boys thought it was
a multiple day event, and couldn’t imagine riding their bikes that far when they
learned what it really was. The discussions in small groups about how to use
tools, how to be safe while riding, and what the volunteers do for a living
helped provide these boys with positive life lessons from male role models. The
volunteers seemed to enjoy the sessions as much as the boys did, and the boys
were excited about the new skills they learned. One participant who didn’t bring
his bike to the workshop summed it up when he said “I plan to go home and check
out my bike and practice all the things we learned today”.
Many thanks to the GABA members and Raytheon volunteers who have helped with
this effort, plus to Sabino Cycles and Ajo Bikes for donating materials to
support the project. Additional information about how to support the Boys &
Girls Club Mentoring Program is available from Rosemary Badian at RJBadian@Raytheon.com.
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By Larry Robinson and Linda Kurick
Ride Organizers
The first Sierra Vista Spring Classic was a total success - thanks to the many
cyclists that made it happen. Cycling is unpredictable – you can’t choose the
weather or plan a route that is all downhill. Without a doubt, the first annual
Sierra Vista Spring classic was an epic challenge. One thing for sure though, is
that you are all heroes!
Thank you to all of the VOLUNTEERS:
-Linda didn’t sign up to be a ride leader, she was drafted. As co-leader, I
could not have done it without her. Thank you!
-Bob & Michele Hoover of Sierra Vista are now good friends. We met while trying
out the route on bicycles for the first time – 119 miles later, the maiden ride
was completed. The Hoovers provided great input from start to finish so that we
were able to come up with routes that worked. Bob & Michele hosted the chilly
Sag #1.
-Sag #2 was hosted by Deb & Jim Harms. They did a splendid job of transporting,
setting up, and advising. Besides always being available for any job needing to
be covered, they worked hard instead of riding themselves.
-Sag #3 was not visited by many, as it appeared most riders voluntarily reduced
their mileage due to the weather conditions. If you made it to Sag #3, you were
able to meet Alice & Hal Joiner and Sid Frye. The time spent by riders inside
the fire station was well deserved. Hal’s poster added incentive.
-“Anonymous” professional map-making made map-reading a breeze. You know who you
are and we are very grateful for your expertise.
-Speaking of professional help, it is hard to overlook the Uebels, who are
better known as “The Super Volunteers.” They are dedicated to helping GABA.
Their expertise at registration was a blessing and much appreciated.
-Last but not least are our sweeps who happen to be two of the best….Stewart
Carter and “Murf” Murphy. They made sure riders were safe, and put hundreds of
miles on vehicles.
-Not to be forgotten is Sutherland Lumber. Their generous support supplied us
with the use of the parking lot. The sag stop in front of a person’s residence
at the top of Mule Pass was kindly donated, while the Bureau of Land Management
consented to our Sag # 2, and the Fry Fire District for Sag # 3.
Salvation Army appreciated the perishable food leftovers donated by GABA and
delivered by Hal..
Most importantly, Thank You to all the participants who made this ride a
success! It was impressive to see the gathering of the pre-registered Phoenix
and Tucson riders, as well as all the riders who signed up the day of the event.
What a great event for the hometown Sierra Vista riders!
For next year, please tell people about this ride – and thank you for the input
provided by the surveys. We would like to have more feedback if you have any to
give, especially if you have some views on the following:
1. Would you be interested in camping the night before the ride?
2. Is the sack lunch at the end of the ride something you enjoyed?
3. If we have strong/severe wind as we did this year, would it be better to
limit the ride to 35, or 63-mile loops, or keep the option for 85 or 100 miles?
Email: Lin_Kur@msn.com with your comments.
See you next Spring!
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Tucson AZ Mtn Standard Time
MAY
RISE SET
A.M. P.M.
1: 5:38 7:04
7: 5:33 7:08
14: 5:27 7:13
21: 5:23 7:18
28: 5:19 7:23
JUNE
RISE SET
A.M. P.M.
1 :5:18 7:25
7: 5:17 7:28
14: 5:17 7:31
21: 5:18 7:33
28: 5:20 7:32
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Solomon Repeats, Cox Dominates the 22nd Tucson Bicycle Classic
By Steve Bohn
The 22nd running of the Tucson Bicycle Classic (TBC) stage race was graced with
warm spring weather, spectacular wildflowers and the ever present winds. The TBC
is Southwest’s oldest multi-category SR and one of the most popular, sticking to
a unique TT/2 RR format, offering very challenging courses for 19 USCF cats in
the beautiful Sonoran Desert west and south of Tucson.
Elite Men/Women:
Stage 1: Old Tucson/McCain Loop TT
The wind kicked up as the later categories rocketed down the start ramp for 3
miles of pain capped off with brutal stair- stepped climbs. Albuquerque’s Joshua
Liberles (Colavita NM) took the Pro/1 prologue at 7:35, shy of Gord Fraser’s
2003 course record time of 7:09. Drew Miller (Landis Trek/VW) followed :03 back
and Phillip Gaimon (Fiordifrutta)@ :08.
Earlier in the day, the women were the first group off and Melissa McWhirter’s (Coliviata
AZ) blazing 8:16 nipped Genevieve Jeanson’s 2004 record by :02. Tucson’s Sarah
Swanson (Summit Velo) and Melanie Meyers (Specialized Designs), both :22 and :28
back, rounded out the podium spots. America’s Dairyland team was nearly 1/2
minute in arrears but that was soon to change.
Stage 2: Sahuarita/Garrett Lemire Memorial RR
UK veteran pro Leda Cox, after 4 years of the Euro scene, signed on with the
America’s Dairyland team recently, a squad of skilled elite riders. On this new
20 mile RR course with varied terrain, the pace in the 60-mile women’s race was
aggressive from the start. Dairyland Cari Higgins took the Queen of the
Mountains sprint at four miles in, but with race leader Melissa McWhirter (Colavita
Arizona) patrolling the front, the race soon came back together.
As the field crested the long climb along Duval Mine Road, heading into the
rolling hills of Mission Road, a strategic attack shattered the pack. Four
riders went clear — two Dairyland teammates Cox and Aussie Clare Vlahopoulos,
along with McWhirter and Meyers, stayed away to finish in that order, leaving
the field to battle for fourth. Cox rode steady tempo to and soloed to an easy
victory (2:49:42) to don the leaders jersey while her teammates controlled the
pack. Teammate Vlahopoulos followed at 3:52 back with McWhirter in 3rd at 4:02
back. Leda’s breakaway power put her firmly in the GC lead by 3:43 over
McWhirter. This kind of effort should make Cox a household name in the US
results columns this spring.
In the men’s 80 mile RR, the peloton regrouped after the 1st lap KOM sprint but
on the second of four laps, a four man break with 3 riders from Mexico’s P&
S-Specialized broke away, including ‘07 TBC champ David Solomon, Carlos
Hernandez and Rodolfo Avila. Kyle Colavita (Ride Clean) rounded out the
opportunists.
The break worked well and gained 2:20 on the field but on the last lap in the
roller climbs on Mission Rd, Avila, then Colavita cracked as Solomon and
Hernandez pushed on.
The winds picked up and with the lead down to 90 seconds and closing fast,
Fiordifrutta’s Phillip Gaimon jumped from the pack in pursuit of the break 10
miles from the finish. The peloton came to life and swallowed up Gaimon and
nearly the break, but Hernandez (taking the longest pulls) and Solomon worked
hard to finish 1-2, just 13 second ahead of the depleted peloton lead by
sprinting Alex Bhogal (Mazurcoaching.com). Solomon donned the leaders jersey
once again, his 3rd and counting since ‘07, while his teammates took 3 of the
top 5 spots for the stage. Sitting :13 ahead of Liberles in GC was no
consolation with the upcoming Stage 3’s numerous time bonuses. Miller was just
:16 back in 3rd.
Stage 3: Speedway Anklam Circuit Race
The Pro/1 men’s 50 mile race on this challenging 5.6 loop with 300’ climbing per
lap had several unsuccessful breaks. Heavy winds split the field up into 3
groups and the apparent stage winner was Carlos Hernandez, leading in the front
group of 13. However, after repeated yellow line violations while working for
race leader/teammate Solomon, Hernandez was relegated to 12th place. The revised
finish order gave the victory to the 2007 AZ Rider of the Year Brian Forbes
(Landis/Trek/VW), followed Ryan Baumann (CRCA-Sakonnet Tech) and Nick Friesen
(The Bike Shop).
P& S-Specialized teamwork kept Salomon in the top GC spot, making him the most
recent repeat champ since Scott Price’s 2000/’01 dominating performances.
Liberles and Miller maintained their previous positions, :13 and :16 back for
the remaining podium spots.
The Pro/1/2 women’s 39 mile race was once again dominated by America’s
Dairyland’s 4 person squad. Riding away from the field at ease, Vlahopoulos and
Cox took the lap 3 time bonuses and motored ahead of the peloton, complacent to
battle for the remaining spots. The Dairyland squad took all of the stage podium
spots, with Vlahopoulos winning at 1:57:22, :02 ahead of TBC Champ Cox while
Higgins won the filed sprint , 4:19 back.
In the final GC, Cox’s monster efforts put her 4:04 ahead of teammate
Vlahopoulos and 8:17 ahead of McWhirter, reminiscent of Jeanson’s (now known to
be EPO tainted) 2 wins 6-7 years ago.
Other Categories:
Tight Masters Fields but Ageless Hammer and Ducket Pound Away
The TBC has 5 master’s cats for men. 70 year young , multi-national champion
Franz Hammer ripped a blistering 8:31 in the TT, 2:06 over the his closet rival.
That time would be good enough for 2nd in the 55+ and 3rd in the Cat 3’s!
Granted the wind kicked up for the later groups but that is an amazing effort.
The 2007/’08 TBC Champ and Seattle resident would finish nearly 20 minutes ahead
of David Deichman (Saguaro Velo) and Robert Paganni (Pasadena Athletic
Association).
The 65+ group had a strong field of 7, with Tucsonian Ralph Ducket (SW Hand)
soloing in both RR’s to the overall GC victory by 6:06 over William Barnes (RPM)
and Jim Moutray (IC 3), 6:34 back.
The remaining master races were closer, with Don William’s (Bicycle Haus Racing)
edging out RPM’s Eric Nelson by :02 in the 55+ field. Duane Mulvaney (Landis
Trek) took 3rd.
John Simonson’s (GST Racing) 2nd place TT and solo victory in Stage 2 kept him
:42 ahead of Mark Fosengurg (ECFA/Honeywell) for the 45+ GC crown. Jay Guyot (GST)
rounded out the podium. In the tight 35+ race, Al Senft’s (Colavita NM)
blistering 7:36 TT helped him edge out Jim Silverman (Ride Clean) by :05 after 2
tightly contested RR’s. Colavita teammate Brian Palen was :06 back in 3rd.
In the women’s 35+ race, attrition left SW Hand teammates Jo Roberts and Leslie
Odoherty to battle it out. Robert took the overall GC by :30 over Odoherty, who
also was the top 50+ rider.
LAJORS Race
The TBC has been a Lance Armstrong Junior Olympic Race series for 10 years
running, helping develop riders of the future. In the 13-14 group, Andrew
Gonzales (NA) & Brianna Lindflott (Summit Velo) won their respective cats while
Albuquerque duo & KHSnm.com teammates Andrew Templeton and Clarissa Freeman took
the 15-16 category victories.
In the 17-18 cat, Alexander Quinones (Nob Hill Velo) record setting 8:04 TT and
2 RR wins gave him the convincing overall crown by 1:15 over Robert Chorost (Syncardia).
Again, a special thanks to all of the volunteers, officials, organizers and
racers who have made the TBC a success over the last 22 years. For complete
results, go to:
www.tucsonbicycleclassic.com/results/results2008/results.htm
TBC website: www.tucsonbicycleclassic.com
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by Richard Corbett,
Certified Master Cycling Instructor & Coach
Do you know for sure where to be at intersections, especially when turning? It
is REALLY important to know and be there!
Three important ‘rules help us understand which lane to be in. These are based
on solid national research, and proven over several decades and millions of
miles of bicycling in America.
These rules are:
Rule 1: Use the rightmost lane that goes to your destination.
Rule 2: If a lane goes to more than one destination, be in the part of the lane
that goes where you are going.
Rule 3: Never be beside a turning motor vehicle (either right or left turns).
You should be able to correctly identify your proper and legal position when
turning, using these three rules.
Here are examples for each Rule:
Rule 1:
Say there are two left (or right) turn lanes - You should turn left (or right)
from the lane on the right, and, you should take a position in the center part
of the lane (not at the edge), so that you become one of the several vehicles
that are turning (in other words, you are in line).
Rule 2:
You approach a lane that is marked to go straight & turn right:
- If you are going straight, then move to the left of the lane.
- If you are turning right, then center yourself (to guard against a possible
right hook), and make your turn, in command of the lane.
- In all cases in a turn lane, stay near the center, as you DO NOT want to have
someone try to squeeze by you.
Rule 2:
You approach a lane that is marked to go straight & turn left:
- If you are going straight, then move to the right of the lane.
- If you are turning left, then center yourself (to guard against a possible
left hook), and make your turn, in command of the lane.
- In all cases in a turn lane, stay near the center, as you DO NOT want to have
someone try to squeeze by you.
Rule 3:
You have entered a left turn lane before any autos are there, and without
thinking you have positioned yourself near the right edge of the turn lane. A
car pulls up on your left, and the left-turn arrow comes on - what do you do?
Wait for the car to go, and then proceed. If there is more than one car, look
back at the car behind the one you are beside, and signal that you want to move
into the line to make your left turn.
You have both the right and the duty to operate safely and legally. Using these
three rules to position yourself for turns will fulfill both.
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By Richard E Corbett,
Master League Cycling Instructor & Coach
I have lead many well attended Coached training rides this spring in preparation
for Tour of the Tucson Mountains, and I still sometimes observed cyclists who
don’t climb very well.
You really do need to climb well to be a solid and ‘complete’ cyclist! You do
not need to climb fast necessarily, but ‘decently’. Climbing long hills is
something we all have to do when we ride in southern Arizona (actually all of
Arizona), or we really limit our riding choices. The best thing to do is to
‘buckle down’ and build the strength and conditioning to be able to climb
‘decently’.
There are several ‘keys’ to climbing hills well. Conditioning (the most
important), attitude, knowledge, and equipment all combine to make hills a lot
‘easier’.
Conditioning:
“The only way to get in condition for hill climbing is to climb hills”. This is
still just as true now as it was 25 years ago. However, there are alternate ways
to condition yourself for hill climbing. Your quadriceps and your heart are the
major muscles used in climbing. Exercises specific to the quads, usually done
with machines or free weights, can prepare these important muscles. We all
should know about heart exercise - it’s what makes us breathe heavily - aerobic.
This means that many different activities can serve for heart exercise. You can
combine exercises for your quads with aerobic by repeatedly climbing stairs, if
you have them available.
Attitude:
What you believe has a lot to do with the reality of what you experience. If you
believe you are well prepared, and that the hill is well within your capability,
then it won’t be too hard. Goal setting, visualization, and similar mental
techniques work, if you believe they will!
I have long used and taught a hill climbing technique called ‘Swiss-cheesing’.
Break the climb into small ‘pieces’ by picking a sign, a curve, or a patch on
the pavement, about 100 meters in front of you, then focus on riding to it. When
you get there, mentally celebrate getting there, and then set a new goal. Ride
to it, and so on. Soon the entire hill will be behind you!
Knowledge:
Knowing gear use, breathing, resting, lane position, eating and drinking is
important to being a successful hill climber. All these are found in the book,
Effective Cycling, and are taught in League Cycling courses - (see: http://bikeped.pima.gov/Safety/SafetyClass3.08.pdf
for FREE classes) .
Balance the work of climbing between your legs and your lungs by using a gear
that is neither too hard nor too easy. Breathe deeply instead of shallowly, and
periodically take extra deep, ‘cleansing’ breaths. If you must stop to rest,
limit your stop to no more than two minutes (you do not want to cool down!), and
simply straddle the bike - don’t get all the way ‘off’.
Ride closer to the pavement edge, when you are going so much slower. Be
especially aware of your lane position on hillcrests and blind curves to the
right (can you be seen far enough ahead of time by an overtaking driver?). Eat
easily digestible snacks (energy gels are best), very lightly, on long climbs;
and drink lightly, but regularly, on all climbs.
Equipment:
Lower gears are quite helpful, as they allow you to sit while climbing. We have
lots of BIG climbs in Arizona that take anywhere from 20 minutes to several
hours, so being able to sit and climb comfortably is essential.
Even if I lived where climbs are a lot shorter, I would still be a firm believer
in climbing while sitting, because the stresses that standing up to pedal places
on your knees are great while climbing (stand for short periods to give your
legs/body a break).
Other equipment that makes a difference includes rims, tires and tubes. All
other things equal, the lighter they are, the easier your climb will be. But
really light rims are more easily damaged, and really light tires/tubes are more
easily punctured; so your choice will generally be a compromise between
lightness and durability.
Hill climbing will never be ‘easy’, but it can be easier for you than it is now,
IF you improve your conditioning, attitude, knowledge, and equipment.
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Monday, June 2 at 7 PM
Come hear Ignacio and Daniela relate
the adventures and successes of
Tucson’s youth cycling club, El Grupo.
They recently won the high school division
in the 35-mile and 109-mile
El Tour de Tucson events,
and completed a
self-contained camping tour in Northern Arizona.
El Grupo’s mission is to
encourage the use of the bicycle
for physical fitness, fun, and camaraderie,
targeting young people aged 13-20.
Public welcome!
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GABA Needs You!
By Donna Lewandowski, GABA President
I think that every president of GABA has had to write this column at least once
during their time in office. As you most likely know, GABA exists entirely due
to many dedicated volunteers.
Every event we put on, from the two hundred day rides we have each year to the
well-run centuries and overnight rides requires at least one person to step up
and say “I’ll do it”. If nobody steps forward, the event doesn’t happen, it’s
that simple.
Unfortunately, right now there are four key positions on the GABA board which
are currently, or will soon be, unfilled.
The Century Ride Coordinator is the person makes sure all those great supported
rides like the Tumacacori Century and the Mt. Lemmon Hill Climb have leaders,
and that those leaders are supported throughout the process.
The Day Ride Coordinator makes sure GABA has a few rides every weekend so our
members have an opportunity to ride with friends at a variety of difficulty
levels.
The Bike Shop Coordinator maintains a good relationship between GABA and our
local bike shops, particularly those that sponsor the newsletter.
And last but not least, the Vice President schedules our monthly speakers and
runs meetings when the president cannot. This person is also expected to one day
assume the presidency.
This is an exciting time to join the volunteer force that is the lifeblood of
GABA. As you read in Judy Bolt’s article about the restructuring of the GABA
Board, these positions are going to be viewed in new ways, and I expect that
will mean new ideas and methods of reaching our goals will follow shortly. This
is a chance for you to be a part of that change.
We are looking for a few people to step up and say “I’ll do it”. Are you ready
to be a part of the solution?
If so, please contact your Volunteer Coordinator, Debra Harms at volunteer@bikegaba.org
or 906-4617 or myself at president@bikegaba.org.
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New Members:
Mary Callahan & John Yerxa; Veronica Dvoskin; Dennis Farizo; Matthew Irlmeier;
William Mattull; Barney & Paula McClosKey; Gregg Molzon; Melissa Petro; Randy
Schuman; Fred Shelley; Bruce Skolnik; Kevin Spencer; Dave Stewart; Marsha Tank;
Lisa Abramson; Dave Armet & Sam Ryersbach; Joshua Barden; Norman & Lauren Bosch;
Ms.Tad Eickenbrock; Jill Floryance; T.J. Johns; John Newman.
Renewing Members:
Bill Husted; James Bittel; William Brown; Dave Burnett; Judy Calcagno; Eric
Case; Lana Chaffee; Ramdy Copleman; Kevin Coyle; Cass Faux; Lee Fiegel; Jimmy
Gunter & Lee Nelson; Mike & Jennifer Isaac; Michael McCarthy; Sue McDavit;
Donald McGraw; Bob & Barb Merow; Dean Mieczkowski; Bruce Moehlman; Jan Smith;
Dave Tacey & /Kathy Cordo; Donna Tew; Mareb Troum & Chris Arnone; Paul & Joyce
Vyriotes; Dick Walker; Tom Ward; Bob Brown; Nicole Burdette; Scott Cerreta; Joan
D’Alonzo; Richard & Sherry Davis; John Desilets; Patricia Dow; Janice & Chris
Dunn; Norm Friedman; Dick & Susan Hall Debra Howard; Norm Land; Jeff & Nancy
Larson; Lee Max & Diane Seder; John Mooney; Ann Pardo; Linda Pejchar; Bill
Phillippi; Dave Phillips; Dick & Louise Strayer; Brad Van Norman; Phyllis
Webster; Warwick White & Pam Little; Nanette Bernier; Debbie Briles; Karen
Butler; Achilles Calenti; Nicki Chasteen; Kevin Eaton; Bob & Linda Epstein; Deb
Erickson; Joy Goldbaum & Norm Osborne; Gerald Goode; Kathi Hanley; Penney
Higdon; Vern Hines; Jim & Bev Ingle; Benn & Doris Isaacman; Pete Kynion; Rebecca
Larkin & Jesse Minor; Royce Marion; Suzanne Phillips & Tom Faucett; Tim Pringle;
Ed & Sue Roberts; Robert Ross; Julir & Ed Schenck; Sam & Anne Ward; Claudia
Weaver; Robert Hooper; David & Pamela Brunk; Catherine Crandall; Mark Dehanke;
Kevin Dwyer; Jim Elkan; Tony & Diane Everett; George & Carol Franklin; Robert &
Lynnae Fritz; Marty Gawlik; Marge Germain; Louise Girard; Homer Hamby; Kent
Johnson; Michael Keith; Mike King; Chad Kurtzman; Pam & Brian Larkins; Dennis
Larson; Andrea Lightfoot; Carol Merfeld; Dwight Nuehring; Stephen Pompea; Larry
Robinson & Linda Kurick; Ed Rogoff; Cathi Ross; Bruce Schadow & Patricia Teik;
George & Theresa Schnepf; Dan Selmer; Doug & Bonnie Thompson; Sal Troia; Pat
Uebel; Lois Wardell; Dave & Della Watson; Robert Wright; Chuck & Bonnie Russell;
Gary Finke & Nancy German; Sandy Alter; Robert Gensler.
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FOR SALE: 53cm JAMIS AURORA Touring Bike. Steel frame & fork. Shimano drive
train, rear rack, fenders, front braze-ons, computer, 36-spoke wheels, 700x32
Panaracer tires, 48/36/26 chain rings, 11x32 cassette. Comfortable ride Low
miles, clean & well maintained. Asking $850, less seat and pedals. Contact Doug
at 520-807-9503 (Tuc) or at dougmar2@juno.com.
STOLEN BIKE: A SchwinnSuper Sport was taken from the garage of John Olson. If
you see this bike, please call John at 790-1187. It is chrome/silver color, has
a WHITE seat, and WHITE handlebar tape. Thank you.
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By Rich Corbett, Ride Leader & Coach
The eight week series of TTM (Tour of the Tucson Mountains) coached training
rides which began March 2nd, was quite successful, with an average attendance of
12. The rides were started at a variety of locations around the area, including
west, northwest, east and southeast, to give different training experiences and
riding locations/routes.
Coach Rich shared group riding, basic physical training, and pacelines, as well
several other cycling tips. He also pulled many times with his tandem (capably
helped by his tandem partner Candace Porter), for those lucky enough to be at
the right place and the right time, and strong enough to ‘stay on’.
Rich will lead the GABA West side El Tour Training rides
this fall (beginning September 7th at NE corner of Grant and Silverbell), and
looks forward next year to leading the GABA TTM Training rides again.
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March 31, 2008 MEETING
A meeting was held on March 31, 2008 beginning at 6:00PM at 17 E. Pennington
Street, Tucson. Committee members present were Judy Bolt, Melinda Correll, Rich
Corbett, Wayne Cullop, Pam Cullop, Jim Harms, Sally Krusing and Donna
Lewandowski. Absent were Mike Burdick, Susan Burdick, Tony Everett, Bob Klenke
and Steve Wilson.
There was again considerable discussion about the reorganization of the GABA
Board. The final decision was to have five committees or groups. We also adopted
Wayne Cullop’s descriptions of the groups (see attached).
The groups are:
•Advocacy Gruppo
•Executive Gruppo
•Media Gruppo
•Membership Gruppo
•Ride Gruppo
Yes, we’re talking “gruppo”, an Italian word defined as the total of all drive
mechanisms on a bicycle (crank, rear derailleur, shift levers, brakes, etc.). To
facilitate the formation of the above, we recommend that for the remainder of
2008 there be gruppo meetings between the GABA monthly meeting and the current
GABA Board meetings with all meetings taking place at the Pima County Medical
Society Bldg, 5199 E Farness.
The first Monday of each month is the regularly scheduled GABA membership
meeting, the second Monday of each month will be the GABA Gruppo meeting and the
third Monday of each month will be the GABA Board meeting. The current
composition of the GABA Board will be divided into the gruppos in the following
manner:
• Advocacy Gruppo: advocacy coord., bike shop coord., education coord.
• Executive Gruppo: president, vice-president, secretary, treasurer & legal
counsel
•Media Gruppo: Update editor, web master,
• Membership Gruppo: membership coord., social coord., merchandise coord.
• Ride Gruppo: day rides, century & overnight coords., cross state ride coord.,
shed master
Each gruppo will determine its own organizational structure and determine
specific ideas and direction it will go, within the parameters set by the
Executive Gruppo.
A Venn Diagram (yet to be perfected) which indicates the intersection of the 5
gruppo circles to create the flower shaped GABA Board in the center. The total
picture should look as if there are 5 entities within the GABA general
membership which all intersect & interact. It is hoped that more people from the
general membership will become involved in one or more gruppos as the need
arises.
At GABA Board meetings, a quorum will be a minimum of 5 people consisting of 2
from the Executive Gruppo and 3 from the remaining 4 gruppos. Anyone from any
gruppo may attend the Board meeting but the number of votes will be limited to 3
from any one gruppo.
In terms of technology, we recommend that the GABA Executive Gruppo get
proposals from qualified people and recommend someone whom GABA can hire. The
person would make an on-going commitment to design and continue a quality GABA
web site. He/she would work with the volunteer GABA Web Master to assure that
all the necessary information is always available and that the capability of
online membership application, registration for rides, and payment for same is
available on a GABA web site. Each gruppo will compile specific things that it
would like to accomplish with technology advances.
Subsequent meetings of this group may occur every 6-8 months to monitor the
progress that GABA is making in meeting the ideas this group proposed. The next
committee meeting is scheduled for Monday 27 October 2008, 6 PM at 17 E.
Pennington Street, Tucson.
Wayne Cullop’s suggested framework for committees – now gruppos!
GABA Executive Committee (GEC): The GEC not surprisingly would consist of the
president, vice-president, secretary, treasurer and legal counsel. This overall
governing body is responsible for the oversight of GABA’s operation and long
term planning. The GEC works with each of the other committees providing
guidance in support of GABA’s vision both near term and long term. Yearly
budgets are established for all committees and monitored by the GEC as well as
the various requests for donations.
GABA Ride Committee (GRC): This very important committee is responsible for all
GABA sponsored rides from the cross state ride to day rides. GRC is what GABA
was originally all about and must continue to be a key component of GABA as it
is our core competency. GRC insures rides meet GABA standards and apply lessons
learned across all rides. One key component is providing training and other
assistance to day ride leaders. This committee consists of the current four ride
positions, the shed master and possibly someone responsible for generating and
maintaining maps and cue sheets.
GABA Media Committee (GMC): The GMC is responsible for media publication that
serves both the GABA members and public in general. The Update and
WWW.BIKEGABA.ORG are the primary forms of media the GMC is concerned about. The
GMC is responsible for the consistency of the newsletter and the web site. They
could provide GABA related articles to other publications such as the Tailwinds
and the Walkin’ & Rollin’ but should not constrain themselves to these two
publications. Besides the current Update editor and web master, this committee
needs several individuals who would research and write articles, help with the
maintenance of the web site and work at publicizing GABA rides and events.
GABA Membership Committee (GMC): The GMC provides direct support to GABA
Members. This committee is responsible of social events such as general
meetings, picnics and ice cream socials. Maintaining and tracking GABA
merchandise is part of the GMC. The swap meet would be included here as a
special event. The volunteer and correspondence coordinators and event
registration coordinator are included as part of the GMC.
GABA Advocacy Committee (GAC): The GAC represents GABA’s interest in improving
Tucson’s and the surrounding area’s bicycling environment. GAC is concerned with
facilities, education, outreach and enforcement issues. Facilities include
roads, shared use paths and parking. The GAC represents GABA at public meetings
and meetings with public officials. GAC may generate letters on GABA’s behalf
stating the Club’s position on various issues. The other three areas are a
little nebulous at this moment but I am sure they will become more important in
the future. One immediate opportunity might be to work with the GRC to revisit
the day ride leader training material. I also include bike shop coordination as
part of the GAC as it works into the theme of bike advocacy with the bike shops.
Note: each committee member in good standing receives the free rides and GABA
memberships.
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Contact Steve Graeber, Membership Director. - He is the ONLY one who can help
you! E-MAIL: membership@bikegaba.org
(ALWAYS put GABA in message line)
Answers To Frequently Asked Questions:
1. New memberships can take 6 weeks to be activated. A new membership starts the
1st of the month of your first Update.
2. Your membership expires on the date on your Update label, e.g. if the label
on your April Update says 4/30/07, that is your last issue.
3. We send postcards reminding members that their membership is about to expire;
if you get a card after renewing, don’t worry! They just crossed in the mail.
4. The cut-off to get any applications to Steve is the 15th of the month for the
following month; and it can take a month to get to him.
5. The lead time for a change of address is as much as 6 weeks. Indicate
starting date. Snowbirds, notify me every time you change addresses.
The Post Office does NOT forward Updates. Use the membership application on the
inside back page for your change of address.
6. We do not issue I.D. cards. Your Update label is your proof of membership.
7. Lastly, don’t call Steve! E-mail works much better. If you must call, it’s
762-1363. Speak clearly, and leave contact info, in case he needs to call you
back.
Remember, you annual dues do NOT support the club! Volunteers do! GABA NEEDS
YOU! VOLUNTEER!
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Editor’s Note: Check each month for additions, deletions, or corrections.
To list events or send corrections: Update-editor@bikegaba.org.
MAY 2008
May 3 & 4: SALT RIVER CANYON TOUR. GABA-Tucson. www.bikegaba.org. Globe to show
Low and back the next day. Great scenery, major climbs for experienced riders.
Leader TBA.
May 3 (Sat): 10TH ANNUAL SEDONA CENTURY BIKE TOUR. Proceeds benefit Old Town
Mission. Options for 33, 47 or 65 miles. For info: www.absolutebikes.net/flag.
May 9 (Fri): MT LEMMON HILL CLIMB. GABA-Tucson. Small fee to cover sag support.
Lunch in Summerhaven.
May 24-26: LUNA LAKE TOUR GABA-Tucson www.bikegaba.org. Approx. 60 miles per
day, from Springerville to Quemado, to Reserve and back to Springerville on 3rd
day. Very little traffic, some good climbs, great scenery.
JUNE 2008
June 1 (Sun): MT HOPKINS HILLCLIMB MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDE. GABA-Tucson.Tom Ward.
www.bikegaba.org Mt Hopkins is a 9,000 foot peak south of Green Valley. Mix of
dirt and paved roads.
June 21 & 22 - NEW DATE: ESCAPE TO THE HIGH COUNTRY. NEW THIS YEAR! Ride 60, 47
or 30 miles each day. Special Challenge Option for riders on Day One: ride 100
miles, all the way up to Snow Bowl at 9,000 feet! Two-day ride through pine
forests and along Mormon Lake and Lake Mary. Overnight in Flagstaff. Suzanne
Couvrette, (520) 891-4661 or update-editor@ bikegaba.org.
June ?: GRAND CANYON TOUR. ABC – www.azbikeclub.com.
JULY 2008
July 4 (Fri): TOUR FOR TUCSON’S CHILDREN. City of Tucson Parks & Rec. Lisa or
Jesus at 791-4969, or contact Lisa.Sommer@tucsonaz.gov.
July 12 & 13 : DAVE FREUND MEMORIAL WHITE MOUNTAIN TOUR. PMBC. Show Low to
Springerville via Vernon on the 1st day; Springerville back to Show Low via
Sunrise on the 2nd day. www.sportsfun.com
July 19: TAYLOR HOUSE BENEFIT CENTURY. Absolute Bikes in Flagstaff. Options for
95, 65 or 45 miles. Route winds through historic Flagstaff, Wupatki and Sunset
Crater National Monuments. www.absolutebikes.net/flag_frset.html
AUGUST 2008
Aug. ?: FLAGSTAFF MOUNTAIN BIKE FESTIVAL. Absolute Bikes in Flagstaff.
www.absolutebikes.net/flag_frset.html
SEPTEMBER 2008
Aug. 30 & 31 and Sept. 1`: THE BLUE LOOP. GABA-Tucson. Morenci to Glenwood, NM;
Glenwood to Alpine, AZ; and Alpine back to Morenci via the famous “Coronado
Trail”. www.bikegaba.org Very scenic ride, but demanding and challenging terrain
for experienced riders.
Aug. 30 & 31 and Sept. 1: TRAIL OF THE MOUNTAIN SPIRITS SCENIC BYWAY BIKE RIDE.
Low mileage, easy pace suitable for average riders, great scenery! Near Silver
City, NM. Cathy Crandall, catcran@cox.net.
Sept. ? : GILA INNER LOOP. Silver City, New Mexico. Contact
twinsistergilanet.com.
Sept. 7 (Sun): OPENING DAY OF “EL TOUR” TRAINING RIDES. GABA-Tucson.
www.bikegaba.org.
Sept. 14 ? (Sun): 3RD ANNUAL JERRY DOSS MEMORIAL LOOP CHALLENGE. Possible 3
options: 96-mile Challenge, 54-mile Loop and a 8-12 Fun Ride. Contact: Karen
Warrick, Prescott Cycling Club Secretary & Newsletter Coordinator, 928-713-9811
or kwarrick@cableone.net.
Sept. 28-Oct. 5: GREAT ARIZONA BICYCLE ADVENTURE. 27th Annual. Grand Canyon to
the Mexican Border. Camping/motel 500+ miles across Arizona from north to south.
www.bikegaba.org
OCTOBER 2008
Oct. 4 (Sat) SHOW LOW BLUFF MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDE. Mountain bike event in the
Pinetop-Lakeside area. 10-66 mile single day endurance. Benefits Summit Health
Care Regional Medical Center. epicrides.com.
Oct. 11 (Sat): COCHISE COUNTY CLASSIC XX. Organized by PBAA.
www.perimeterbicycling.com
Oct. ? (Sat) : MEMORIAL RIDE FOR SAFETY. In Phoenix. PMBC for CAzB.
www.sportsfun.com
Oct. ? (Sun): HEART OF ARIZONA CENTURY. GABA-West Valley, Bullshifters, & ABC.
www.sportsfun.com
Oct. 18 & 19: CAVE CREEK OVERNIGHT RIDE. GABA-Tucson. On east side of the
Chiricahua Mountains, from Road Forks, NM to Portal, AZ. www.bikegaba.org.
Oct. 26 (Sun): GENE CHAPMAN MEMORIAL TUMACACORI CENTURY. GABA-Tucson. Most
options start in Sahuarita, south of Tucson, and go to the well-known Tumacacori
Mission. overnights@bikegaba.org. or www.bikegaba.org.
Oct. ? : SOUL RIDE MOUNTAIN BIKE. In Oracle. Todd Sadow, www.epicrides.com.
Oct. ? (SAT): TOUR DE FARM. Diabetes Exercise & Sports Assn. www.tourdefarm.com.
Oct ? (Sun) : PALO VERDE CENTURY. GABA-West Valley. www.sportsfun.com.
NOVEMBER 2008
Nov. ?: MS 150. Multiple Sclerosis Society. http://ms150.dsw.nmss.org
Nov. 1 & 2: HALLOWEEN IN TOMBSTONE TERRITORY. GABA-TUCSON. Two different loops
both starting from Tombstone.. Catherine Crandall & George Mortimer, 624-8680 or
cathygeorge3200@hotmail.com
Nov. 9 (Sun): SILVERBELL CENTURY. GABA-Tucson. Options for 60 or 100 miles
Scenic course west of Tucson. Last century to train for El Tour!
www.bikegaba.org.
Nov. ? (Sat): McDOWELL CENTURY. ABC. Options for a metric century and a
half-metric century as well. www.azbikeclub.com
Nov. 15 & 16: GILA/HASSAYAMPA RIVER TRAIL SELF-CONTAINED BIKE TOUR. GABA-Tucson.
Beautiful 2-day ride starting in Gila Bend. Cycle on Old Hwy 80, a road with
minimal traffic. No sag support on this ride: everyone is riding self-contained
with their own supplies. Ride Leaders: Catherine Crandall & George Mortimer,
624-8680 or cathygeorge3200@hotmail.com
Nov. 15 (Sat): EL BIKE SWAP DE TUCSON. GABA-Tucson. On historic 4th Avenue!
Quaint central area where vendors set up on each side of the avenue. Great
turn-out at no charge to anyone! Greg Yares, (520) 323-9020 or swapmeet@bikegaba.org.
or www.bikegaba.org.
Nov. 22 (Sat): EL TOUR DE TUCSON XXV. PBAA. 25th annual. Counterclockwise course
again this year! 4 different options! More than 8,000 riders! Lots of sag stops
along the course, as well as thousands of volunteers to make your experience a
pleasant one! For info, (520) 745-2033 or visit www.perimeterbicycling.com
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Adopted by GABA-Tucson Board
- If you cancel 1 wk (7 days) or less prior to a ride, you do not receive a
refund.
- If you cancel between 2 wks (14 days) and 1 wk (7 days) prior to a ride, you
get 1/2 of your money back.
- If you cancel more than 2 wks (14 days) prior to a ride, you get a full
refund.
Sorry but we cannot make exceptions.
You may locate a substitute rider to take your place and submit his/her
completed Registration Form & Waiver with a letter of explanation.
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-Report polluting vehicles to Pima Co. Dept. of Environmental Quality Hotline,
622-5700.
-Report road maintenance needs in Pima County to Pima County Street Maint.,
740-2639.
-Report road maintenance needs within Tucson to Tucson City Street Maint.,
791-3154.
-Report roadway maintenance needs on state hwys to AZ Depart. of Transp.,
628-5705.
-Report aggressive drivers to Tucson Police Dept. Road Rage Hotline, 235-RAGE
(7243).
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You may need to prove your GABA-Tucson member-ship when making purchases at
local bike shops who generously give a “GABA Discount” to our members.
All you have to do is cut out your newsletter label and stash it in your wallet.
It has your name and member-ship expiration date on it.
For your information, not all bike shops offer a discount; the rate of discounts
offered may vary between shops; and it may be given only on certain kinds of
purchases.
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ESCAPE TO THE HIGH COUNTRY
PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
DATE CHANGED: June 21 & 22, 2008
(ONE FORM PER RIDER)
Photocopies accepted. Please fill out all the blanks.
Ride Leader: Suzanne Couvrette, (520) 891-4661
or update-editor@bikegaba.org
Return this form & your check to: GABA
P.O. Box 43273, Tucson AZ 85733
Option chosen: (Please circle):
Motel Name in Flagstaff_________________________
Camping Fri ________ Camping Sat ___________
30 MI 45 MI 60 MI 100 MI
PRE-REGISTRATION FEE:
GABA/ABC Members: $70.00 $______
Non-Members: $85.00 $______
DAY OF EVENT:
GABA/ABC members: $85.00 $______
Non-Members: $100.00 $______
Total money enclosed: $ _______
I AM currently a GABA member: Yes No
NAME:
(print)____________________________________________
ADDRESS:_________________________________________
CITY:__________________________ ZIP _______________ PHONE:
_________________________________________
E-MAIL ___________________________________________
CPSC-approved helmets are mandatory.
STAPLE your SIGNED WAIVER to each Form.
Forms & Waivers cut with scissors are appreciated!