Looking Ahead to 2008

Yes, the weather is awfully cold this week, but 2008 promises to be the strongest yet for cycling at CSL. The Tour de Sem planning is well underway -- May 3rd is the date. We're applying for US Cycling Federation as a collegiate club, which brings with it a series of races with other schools in the midwest. We're also being made part of the budget at CSL (okay, not a big part) and given "club" status like basketball, soccer, and tennis. This will free us up to make our events even better. And, we're looking to get new riders with a kid's bike rodeo this Spring.

I've been pretty tied up with work and getting things organized with Ghisallo Racing, but we'll call a meeting pretty quick here to get us all up to speed. And, if you know of any first year students who are thinking about riding or you think should start riding, encourage them along.

St. Louis Bike Federation Swap Meet

Get ready for the new season and get some great deals. The Bike Swap features big bike shops clearing stuff out at great prices and individuals selling used parts and gear at great discounts. Well worth the trip, you'd be amazed how much stuff there is at this thing. It is also a great place to go if you're looking to pick up a used bike. The event is held in Collinsville on Sun., Jan 27. Starts at 10:00 for the best deals (I know, tough with field ed) but goes until 4:00. I'm heading out there after Bible study. Directions and further info at: St. Louis Regional Bike Federation's web site

Christmas Cookie Ride - Dec. 16

Want an excuse to eat all those Christmas cookies? Ride a couple hours first, then eat them. Meet at the Kloha's at 1:30, ride a couple hours, back by 4:00 for cookies, coffee, and hot chocolate. Bring along some cookies, mince pies, egg nog, fruitcake, whatever to share. Have the non-cycling part of the family join us after the ride. RSVP on the blog or to Prof. Kloha's csl e-mail.

Helpful video on cycling skills

Came across this link, posted by our friends at Ghisallo Sports. It has a bunch of clips by Chris Carmichael (Lance Armstrong's coach) dealing with all sorts of training tips -- hydration, drafting, etc. Scroll to the bottom of the menu. He also posted a century training plan. Here is the link:

http://www.mastertheshift.com/#/expert_advice/carmichael/watch

Clayton Bike Trail Meeting

I posted this last month -- On Thursday, Nov. 29 there will be a study to examine a trail system connecting Clayton, Brentwood, Maplewood, and Richmond Heights. This would obviously be of great benefit to both bike commuters and recreational cyclists on campus -- especially if it helps us avoid Big Bend and Clayton Road as much as possible. There will be a public forum held at The Heights (Dale Ave east of Hanley in Richmond Heights) on Nov. 29 at 7:00pm. I will be attending, if anyone wants to go let me know and we can share a ride.

Thursday Group Ride

3-4 Hour Group ride leaving from Luther Statue at 1pm - tomorrow, Thursday, November 15. Break out the tights & windbreakers - it's going to be chilly (42 degrees) and windy (20 mph).

Group Ride Nov 10

We're meeting up at 1:30 on Sat, Nov 10 for a couple hours of hills. Meet up, as always, at Luther Statue.