However, you can learn more about the CV Mountain Biking Team by looking over postings here from previous years. If you are interested in joining the team, contact teacher Mrs. Jan Babbington at CV High School. To learn more about the So Cal High School Mountain Biking League, go to: http://www.socaldirt.org/
-- Coach Banner Moffat
STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS in Los Olivos
Some of the 2011 MTB Team
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
OUR LAST WEEK'S PRACTICES
Folks,
The season is almost over. After May 31st no more coached rides. This week we are just riding for fun – or this Sunday doing trail work on El Prieto “just for fun” and to learn the basics. It is important to contribute to trail work because without people volunteering that way, we wouldn’t have hardly any trails to ride. And now El Prieto is open though it really needs work in a few places.
Tuesday starting from Descanso 4pm
Thursday starting from Descanso 4pm (shall we ride up Brown Mtn. again?)
SUNDAY 10am (3-4 hours) at the parking lot above the Hahamonga wash near the corner of Windsor & Ventura. Bring work gloves if you have them, water, snack and wear long sleeves and long pants.
- - Banner
The season is almost over. After May 31st no more coached rides. This week we are just riding for fun – or this Sunday doing trail work on El Prieto “just for fun” and to learn the basics. It is important to contribute to trail work because without people volunteering that way, we wouldn’t have hardly any trails to ride. And now El Prieto is open though it really needs work in a few places.
Tuesday starting from Descanso 4pm
Thursday starting from Descanso 4pm (shall we ride up Brown Mtn. again?)
SUNDAY 10am (3-4 hours) at the parking lot above the Hahamonga wash near the corner of Windsor & Ventura. Bring work gloves if you have them, water, snack and wear long sleeves and long pants.
- - Banner
Monday, April 25, 2011
THIS WEEK'S PRACTICES & RACE!
Folks,
We will concentrate on having fun this week prior to our final Southern Ca. League race. I will be going to Vail Lake on Saturday mid-day if anyone needs a ride or if anyone’s bike needs a ride. The race day weather will be hotter than you have raced in this year so be sure to stay hydrated – especially the day before when you pre-ride the course. Warm weather will make the camping there a lot of fun, though. Contact Ms. Babington & Ms. Pettigrew for campsite location info.
Remember that online pre-registration for the SoCal League Finals at Vail Lake May 1st closes on Tuesday! Save a few $ and pre-register now!
Also, if you plan to race at the State Championships (a great race location near Solvang; ask team mates from last year), see below. There will be two or three times as many students at the state championships as there were at the SoCal League races. It will be very exciting to race with that many competitors at the same time.
Tuesday 4-6:15pm Descanso Gardens
Thursday 4-6:15pm Descanso Gardens
Saturday Pre-Ride the Race Course in Temecula
Sunday RACE DAY!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
State Championships
The 2011 California State High School Mountain Biking Championships flyer is now posted on the website. It has all the information you need regarding registration, camping, lodging, and qualification.
Though we are still a month away from the race there are already over 100 riders registered. If you are qualified and plan on attending please register ASAP
Fields are capped at 100 riders and some fields could fill. This means you could qualify for States but not have a spot. Registration is first-come first-served and can be completed online in the Pit Zone.
As an added benefit to our California NICA racers this race will be a qualifying race for USA Cycling Cross-Country Nationals being held in Sun Valley, ID this July 14-17. Information on qualification criteria is on the race flyer.
We will concentrate on having fun this week prior to our final Southern Ca. League race. I will be going to Vail Lake on Saturday mid-day if anyone needs a ride or if anyone’s bike needs a ride. The race day weather will be hotter than you have raced in this year so be sure to stay hydrated – especially the day before when you pre-ride the course. Warm weather will make the camping there a lot of fun, though. Contact Ms. Babington & Ms. Pettigrew for campsite location info.
Remember that online pre-registration for the SoCal League Finals at Vail Lake May 1st closes on Tuesday! Save a few $ and pre-register now!
Also, if you plan to race at the State Championships (a great race location near Solvang; ask team mates from last year), see below. There will be two or three times as many students at the state championships as there were at the SoCal League races. It will be very exciting to race with that many competitors at the same time.
Tuesday 4-6:15pm Descanso Gardens
Thursday 4-6:15pm Descanso Gardens
Saturday Pre-Ride the Race Course in Temecula
Sunday RACE DAY!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
State Championships
The 2011 California State High School Mountain Biking Championships flyer is now posted on the website. It has all the information you need regarding registration, camping, lodging, and qualification.
Though we are still a month away from the race there are already over 100 riders registered. If you are qualified and plan on attending please register ASAP
Fields are capped at 100 riders and some fields could fill. This means you could qualify for States but not have a spot. Registration is first-come first-served and can be completed online in the Pit Zone.
As an added benefit to our California NICA racers this race will be a qualifying race for USA Cycling Cross-Country Nationals being held in Sun Valley, ID this July 14-17. Information on qualification criteria is on the race flyer.
Monday, April 18, 2011
THIS WEEK'S PRACTICES
Folks,
This is the week to work hard if you want to do well at the next race. Plus the stronger you are, the more fun it’ll be, so come to practice!
Tuesday we are going to start out practice by learning a new skill that comes from a different cycling discipline. If you practice it and get good at it, it will come in handy for the rest of your cycling life. Come see!
The map of the race course is up on the SoCal League site now. Check it out.
Tuesday: 4 – 6:15 Descanso Gardens
Thursday: 4 – 6:15 Descanso Gardens
Saturday: 10am Descanso Gardens
Also, here is a well made video made by the St. Francis team that gives you an idea of what the Arrowhead race course was like. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FlEDtEyscAw&feature=email
And I added the photos taken by Evan’s dad to my Arrowhead race photo site:
https://picasaweb.google.com/bannermoffat/CVArrowhead2011#
This is the week to work hard if you want to do well at the next race. Plus the stronger you are, the more fun it’ll be, so come to practice!
Tuesday we are going to start out practice by learning a new skill that comes from a different cycling discipline. If you practice it and get good at it, it will come in handy for the rest of your cycling life. Come see!
The map of the race course is up on the SoCal League site now. Check it out.
Tuesday: 4 – 6:15 Descanso Gardens
Thursday: 4 – 6:15 Descanso Gardens
Saturday: 10am Descanso Gardens
Also, here is a well made video made by the St. Francis team that gives you an idea of what the Arrowhead race course was like. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FlEDtEyscAw&feature=email
And I added the photos taken by Evan’s dad to my Arrowhead race photo site:
https://picasaweb.google.com/bannermoffat/CVArrowhead2011#
Monday, April 11, 2011
THIS WEEKS PRACTICES
Folks,
One more mountain bike race is in the bag! The weather cooperated perfectly for Race Day and the course definitely had some new terrain challenges for us all. It was a great day of racing; if you weren’t there, ask your team mates what you missed.
With puddles and creek crossings, every bike that raced is now dirty and needs to be cleaned and the chain oiled BEFORE you come to practice on it. Don’t even think about coming to practice on before doing the above. If you have any questions about how to fix or adjust something, we coaches are glad to help (preferably not right when practice is about to start) but you all should always clean your bike and oil your chain after any conditions like yesterday’s.
I have the few photos I took posted at: . One is enclosed.
TUESDAY – 4 to 6:15 pm DESCANSO GARDENS
THURSDAY – 4 to 6:15 pm CV PARK at the corner of Honolulu and New York for some new, challenging fire road (Be ready to ride at 4pm; we will be leaving promptly!)
SATURDAY – 10am at DESCANSO Gardens
- - Banner
Monday, April 4, 2011
Folks,
You all (except Reily) missed a great MTB ride from the San Fernando Valley all the way to overlooking the Santa Monica Bay on Sunday with the Burbank team. It is always fun and educational to ride in new and different terrain. You should have been there!
Let’s do some slightly different weekday rides this week. The days are long enough and if you don’t have homework this week because of spring break, we can cover more ground than usual.
Tuesday meet at CV Park (New York & Honolulu) at 4 – 6:30, a little later than usual. Show up in time to be ready to go at 4.
(Rest on Wednesday)
Thursday meet at Descanso at 4pm and we will ride the “horse trails” to Hahamonga and come back "the long way".
Saturday – Race Course Pre-Ride. I will leave from Descanso at 9am and can give a person and a bike or two a ride up there. I will be back @ 3-4pm. It may be cold and might be wet; dress appropriately.
Sunday – Race Day. Aim to be there by 8:30am and be aware of your start times. Find the team gathering spot and get ready to ride! The forecast is for sunshine, but it will be cooler at higher elevation. Bring your race # placard.
This race is a closer drive than any others we will do. If you have any friends or family who would enjoy watching, tell them to come; it should be well under 2 hours to get there. If you have not raced before; this is your best chance!
- - Banner
You all (except Reily) missed a great MTB ride from the San Fernando Valley all the way to overlooking the Santa Monica Bay on Sunday with the Burbank team. It is always fun and educational to ride in new and different terrain. You should have been there!
Let’s do some slightly different weekday rides this week. The days are long enough and if you don’t have homework this week because of spring break, we can cover more ground than usual.
Tuesday meet at CV Park (New York & Honolulu) at 4 – 6:30, a little later than usual. Show up in time to be ready to go at 4.
(Rest on Wednesday)
Thursday meet at Descanso at 4pm and we will ride the “horse trails” to Hahamonga and come back "the long way".
Saturday – Race Course Pre-Ride. I will leave from Descanso at 9am and can give a person and a bike or two a ride up there. I will be back @ 3-4pm. It may be cold and might be wet; dress appropriately.
Sunday – Race Day. Aim to be there by 8:30am and be aware of your start times. Find the team gathering spot and get ready to ride! The forecast is for sunshine, but it will be cooler at higher elevation. Bring your race # placard.
This race is a closer drive than any others we will do. If you have any friends or family who would enjoy watching, tell them to come; it should be well under 2 hours to get there. If you have not raced before; this is your best chance!
- - Banner
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
This Weeks Practices
Folks,
The races went well and CV is now in 3rd place in the team competition! It was the most fun race course we've seen yet and the weather finally decided to cooperate with a beautiful sunny Sunday. Venue Photo Enclosed.
The next race at Lake Arrowhead is only 2 weeks away so this week is the week to train hard for it. If you want to improve, come to practice and pedal hard! Arrowhead is the closest race, only @ 1.7 hours away, so for those of you who have never come to a race, it is your best chance. Riders, if you need transportation help, let me know.
This week's schedule:
Tuesday: Descanso Gardens 4 - 6pm
Wednesday: Spin Class (maybe our last spin class in Montrose)
Thursday: Descanso Gardens 4 - 6pm
Saturday: Descanso Gardens 10am
Sunday: Bonus workout with the Burbank Team at the top of Reseda, 9am. (see below)
It is new riding territory for you all in Topanga State Park. Coach Jim is familiar with the roads and trails there if you have any questions about that... or just show up! I hope to be there so if you need a ride, let me know.
- - Banner
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Hey CV Team,
So we're headed up to the Top of Reseda this Sunday at 9 am. It's supposed to be a perfect day weather-wise so our plan is to ride out to Overlook Mesa for a nice ocean view. It's roughly a 14 mile ride with 3000 feet of climbing. If you're interested let me know! Feel free to bring anyone you like!
Directions are simple. Head north on the 101, exit Reseda Blvd., and go left off the freeway. Take Reseda all the way up into the hills until it deads ends right into the trail head.
Mauricio Barba
Head Coach
John Burroughs HS MTB Club
The races went well and CV is now in 3rd place in the team competition! It was the most fun race course we've seen yet and the weather finally decided to cooperate with a beautiful sunny Sunday. Venue Photo Enclosed.
The next race at Lake Arrowhead is only 2 weeks away so this week is the week to train hard for it. If you want to improve, come to practice and pedal hard! Arrowhead is the closest race, only @ 1.7 hours away, so for those of you who have never come to a race, it is your best chance. Riders, if you need transportation help, let me know.
This week's schedule:
Tuesday: Descanso Gardens 4 - 6pm
Wednesday: Spin Class (maybe our last spin class in Montrose)
Thursday: Descanso Gardens 4 - 6pm
Saturday: Descanso Gardens 10am
Sunday: Bonus workout with the Burbank Team at the top of Reseda, 9am. (see below)
It is new riding territory for you all in Topanga State Park. Coach Jim is familiar with the roads and trails there if you have any questions about that... or just show up! I hope to be there so if you need a ride, let me know.
- - Banner
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Hey CV Team,
So we're headed up to the Top of Reseda this Sunday at 9 am. It's supposed to be a perfect day weather-wise so our plan is to ride out to Overlook Mesa for a nice ocean view. It's roughly a 14 mile ride with 3000 feet of climbing. If you're interested let me know! Feel free to bring anyone you like!
Directions are simple. Head north on the 101, exit Reseda Blvd., and go left off the freeway. Take Reseda all the way up into the hills until it deads ends right into the trail head.
Mauricio Barba
Head Coach
John Burroughs HS MTB Club
Monday, March 21, 2011
This Weeks Practices
Folks,
This is pre-race week. We won't be doing anything too intense, but we will keep the skills & fitness momentum going... and riding for fun.
- Tuesday 4 - 6:00pm from Descanso
- Wednesday 3:15 - 4:30 Spin Class in Motrose
- Thursday 4 - 6:00pm from Descanso (WEATHER PERMITTING - rain is forecast Thursday, but I will be there to ride with anyone who wants to unless it is raining hard)
Saturday - Pre-ride the course near Lake Isabella (Weather forecast is now RAIN FREE!)
Sunday - RACE DAY! (Weather forecast is now RAIN FREE!)
I will be leaving for the race course Saturday mid-day or late morning if any one person or bikes need a ride. It may be nice weather after all but prepare for the worst and bring clothing to stay warm no matter what the weather does.
This is pre-race week. We won't be doing anything too intense, but we will keep the skills & fitness momentum going... and riding for fun.
- Tuesday 4 - 6:00pm from Descanso
- Wednesday 3:15 - 4:30 Spin Class in Motrose
- Thursday 4 - 6:00pm from Descanso (WEATHER PERMITTING - rain is forecast Thursday, but I will be there to ride with anyone who wants to unless it is raining hard)
Saturday - Pre-ride the course near Lake Isabella (Weather forecast is now RAIN FREE!)
Sunday - RACE DAY! (Weather forecast is now RAIN FREE!)
I will be leaving for the race course Saturday mid-day or late morning if any one person or bikes need a ride. It may be nice weather after all but prepare for the worst and bring clothing to stay warm no matter what the weather does.
Monday, March 14, 2011
THIS WEEKS PRACTICES
Folks,
The days are now long enough for practice from 4-6. If you think that’s too long, I saw the San Gabriel MTB team has 2 and ½ hour practices Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday AND Sunday! Don’t worry, we’ll stick with only 3 practices per week for now.
Also, I went to the MTB races (regular cross country races from beginner to Pro - not just High School) at Bonelli Park last weekend and was happy to see LOTS of high school kids racing. There were kids from Hart District, San Gabriel Team, St. Francis and other teams… and Pam from CV! I counted 4 SoCal League leaders jerseys on the race course. The competition is out there racing, getting experience and not waiting for the next SoCal high school race! The courses at these races are harder than at the high school races, but there were even kids from elementary school racing the same course. All you need to be able to do is know when you need to walk if one part of the course is too difficult for you.
You can see photos I took at the race at: https://picasaweb.google.com/bannermoffat/BonelliMTBRace2011#
I encourage you all to go to some of these races even if you don’t want to race. It is a lot of fun and you will see more bike loving folks, young & old, at these race scenes than anywhere else. Later in the season there will be one in Fontana, one in Riverside, Santa Barbara, Big Bear and next weekend there is one at Keyesville (Lake Isabella) right where our next high school race will be. If raced that one, you’d be extra prepared for the next race! And if I’m there, I’ll take your photo.
Anyway, NEXT WEEK’S PRACTICES:
Tuesday: 4-6 Starting from Descanso Gardens
Wednesday 3:15-4:30 Spin Class (note the earlier start time)
Thursday 4-6 Starting from Descanso Gardens
Weekend Practice to be announced
The days are now long enough for practice from 4-6. If you think that’s too long, I saw the San Gabriel MTB team has 2 and ½ hour practices Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday AND Sunday! Don’t worry, we’ll stick with only 3 practices per week for now.
Also, I went to the MTB races (regular cross country races from beginner to Pro - not just High School) at Bonelli Park last weekend and was happy to see LOTS of high school kids racing. There were kids from Hart District, San Gabriel Team, St. Francis and other teams… and Pam from CV! I counted 4 SoCal League leaders jerseys on the race course. The competition is out there racing, getting experience and not waiting for the next SoCal high school race! The courses at these races are harder than at the high school races, but there were even kids from elementary school racing the same course. All you need to be able to do is know when you need to walk if one part of the course is too difficult for you.
You can see photos I took at the race at: https://picasaweb.google.com/bannermoffat/BonelliMTBRace2011#
I encourage you all to go to some of these races even if you don’t want to race. It is a lot of fun and you will see more bike loving folks, young & old, at these race scenes than anywhere else. Later in the season there will be one in Fontana, one in Riverside, Santa Barbara, Big Bear and next weekend there is one at Keyesville (Lake Isabella) right where our next high school race will be. If raced that one, you’d be extra prepared for the next race! And if I’m there, I’ll take your photo.
Anyway, NEXT WEEK’S PRACTICES:
Tuesday: 4-6 Starting from Descanso Gardens
Wednesday 3:15-4:30 Spin Class (note the earlier start time)
Thursday 4-6 Starting from Descanso Gardens
Weekend Practice to be announced
Monday, March 7, 2011
Folks,
Our first race went well, overall. A lot was learned and for any racers wanting to do better next race, we coaches will help you accomplish that. If you have ideas of what you want to improve on between now and the next race, let me know. Jim, Ken and I have our own ideas as well... as you will see at practices.
The weather was great, the course was a fun course to pre-ride on Saturday and camping at the race course is always fun. There were hundreds of kids all camping and pre-riding at the same time. Over 220 racers took part and the fields of racers were big; a total of @ 70 JV boys for example (in 2 divisions). Some team mates finished only seconds from the racers in front of them and in a 2 or 3 lap race, seconds can be gained merely by changing your mind a little (focus a little more, keep pushing rather than relax, decide to pass rather than rest, etc.) However, to gain several minutes usually takes better hill climbing fitness.
You can see a few photos I took (didn’t take many) including preliminary results lists at:
https://picasaweb.google.com/bannermoffat/CV1VailLake2011#
Here are our results (from preliminary postings):
Lucas - 3rd - Only 41 seconds from 2nd and 46 seconds from 1st!
Pam - 6th - Her first race as Varsity and only 8 seconds off the podium.
Owen - 7th - Only 27 seconds off the podium.
Weston - 11th - about 5 min off the podium but with specific workouts, it’s achievable.
Adriel - 13th - 20 seconds behind 12th place; getting close to top 10
Danny D - 14th – Right behind Adriel. Twenty-three seconds faster would have been 12th.
Reilly - 15th – About a minute behind Weston.
Danny V - 26th - Pre-riding would have made it faster.
Connor - 31st - First race, learned a lot, now to work on moving up the ranks.
Mack - 34th - Some specific, hard workouts will move you way up the ranks if you want to do it.
Alvin - Finished his first race, unlike several of his competitors who didn't.
Dillen - Didn't finish because he got sick but his first lap was fast enough to put him 13th out of 20 in his first Varsity race.
Rachael - Didn't finish because of a crash where she hurt her ankle. She's okay though.
Those of you who didn't make it, come to the next race! It will also have camping along the race course under pine trees and will be near Lake Isabella east of Bakersfield.
This Week's Practices:
Tuesday - 4pm to 5:45 - Descanso Gardens
Wednesday – 3:30 to 4:30 – Hopefully Spin Class (I haven’t heard; check with Ms. Babbington or Pettigrew)
Thursday - 4pm to 5:45 - Descanso Gardens
Weekend – Time and place to be announced… AND SEE BELOW
- - Banner
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This weekend there is a MAJOR Mountain Bike race at Bonelli Park in San Dimas. Any racer who wants to get some great experience at a race that is on a bit tougher course than high school races should go. I will be there and will pre-ride either Friday or Saturday (or both). XC races are on Sunday. To Register sign up as Cat 3 age 15-18 and get a one day USAC license if you don’t have one. Let me know if you want guidance at this race. (There will be kids from other high schools there)
http://uscup.net/index.php?schedule
http://www.uscup.net/up/file/pdf/FONTANA%20WEST%20SCHEDULE.pdf
Our first race went well, overall. A lot was learned and for any racers wanting to do better next race, we coaches will help you accomplish that. If you have ideas of what you want to improve on between now and the next race, let me know. Jim, Ken and I have our own ideas as well... as you will see at practices.
The weather was great, the course was a fun course to pre-ride on Saturday and camping at the race course is always fun. There were hundreds of kids all camping and pre-riding at the same time. Over 220 racers took part and the fields of racers were big; a total of @ 70 JV boys for example (in 2 divisions). Some team mates finished only seconds from the racers in front of them and in a 2 or 3 lap race, seconds can be gained merely by changing your mind a little (focus a little more, keep pushing rather than relax, decide to pass rather than rest, etc.) However, to gain several minutes usually takes better hill climbing fitness.
You can see a few photos I took (didn’t take many) including preliminary results lists at:
https://picasaweb.google.com/bannermoffat/CV1VailLake2011#
Here are our results (from preliminary postings):
Lucas - 3rd - Only 41 seconds from 2nd and 46 seconds from 1st!
Pam - 6th - Her first race as Varsity and only 8 seconds off the podium.
Owen - 7th - Only 27 seconds off the podium.
Weston - 11th - about 5 min off the podium but with specific workouts, it’s achievable.
Adriel - 13th - 20 seconds behind 12th place; getting close to top 10
Danny D - 14th – Right behind Adriel. Twenty-three seconds faster would have been 12th.
Reilly - 15th – About a minute behind Weston.
Danny V - 26th - Pre-riding would have made it faster.
Connor - 31st - First race, learned a lot, now to work on moving up the ranks.
Mack - 34th - Some specific, hard workouts will move you way up the ranks if you want to do it.
Alvin - Finished his first race, unlike several of his competitors who didn't.
Dillen - Didn't finish because he got sick but his first lap was fast enough to put him 13th out of 20 in his first Varsity race.
Rachael - Didn't finish because of a crash where she hurt her ankle. She's okay though.
Those of you who didn't make it, come to the next race! It will also have camping along the race course under pine trees and will be near Lake Isabella east of Bakersfield.
This Week's Practices:
Tuesday - 4pm to 5:45 - Descanso Gardens
Wednesday – 3:30 to 4:30 – Hopefully Spin Class (I haven’t heard; check with Ms. Babbington or Pettigrew)
Thursday - 4pm to 5:45 - Descanso Gardens
Weekend – Time and place to be announced… AND SEE BELOW
- - Banner
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This weekend there is a MAJOR Mountain Bike race at Bonelli Park in San Dimas. Any racer who wants to get some great experience at a race that is on a bit tougher course than high school races should go. I will be there and will pre-ride either Friday or Saturday (or both). XC races are on Sunday. To Register sign up as Cat 3 age 15-18 and get a one day USAC license if you don’t have one. Let me know if you want guidance at this race. (There will be kids from other high schools there)
http://uscup.net/index.php?schedule
http://www.uscup.net/up/file/pdf/FONTANA%20WEST%20SCHEDULE.pdf
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
THIS WEEK'S PRACTICES & RACE
Hi Folks,
Tuesday & Thursday 4-6pm at Descanso Gardens.
The weekend: RACING! Pre-ride Saturday, Race day Sunday
It won’t help your performance at the races to work too hard this week so we will ride just for fun!
Pre-riding the course is one of the easy things that will help your performance in a race a lot. When you pre-ride, don’t climb the hills hard. Take it easy on the uphills, get an idea of what gear you will need at each spot, do the downhills fast enough to get an idea of what it will be like at race pace but DON’T risk crashing. You will gain the most pre-ride knowledge on the downhills and transitions. There is little to learn from hammering up a long hill but you might tire your muscles out before the race.
Also if you pre-ride while chatting with friends and team mates the whole time, you won’t get the full benefit. Try to do at least one lap while concentrating.
- - Banner
P.S. I will be driving to Temecula Saturday leaving around noon and will have room for one person and one extra bike if the transportation is needed. I’ll be returning immediately after the awards ceremony.
Temecula Forecast (prepare for COLD mornings)
Tuesday & Thursday 4-6pm at Descanso Gardens.
The weekend: RACING! Pre-ride Saturday, Race day Sunday
It won’t help your performance at the races to work too hard this week so we will ride just for fun!
Pre-riding the course is one of the easy things that will help your performance in a race a lot. When you pre-ride, don’t climb the hills hard. Take it easy on the uphills, get an idea of what gear you will need at each spot, do the downhills fast enough to get an idea of what it will be like at race pace but DON’T risk crashing. You will gain the most pre-ride knowledge on the downhills and transitions. There is little to learn from hammering up a long hill but you might tire your muscles out before the race.
Also if you pre-ride while chatting with friends and team mates the whole time, you won’t get the full benefit. Try to do at least one lap while concentrating.
- - Banner
P.S. I will be driving to Temecula Saturday leaving around noon and will have room for one person and one extra bike if the transportation is needed. I’ll be returning immediately after the awards ceremony.
Temecula Forecast (prepare for COLD mornings)
Friday, February 18, 2011
Saturday:
CV Park at 11am
WEATHER PERMITTING… Meet at CV park (corner of New York & Honolulu). We will do some climbing in the Verdugos breaking up into various groups taking different routes depending on ability, time limits, number of coaches and weather. We can ride if it is a little wet, but if it is raining too hard or too stormy, we will not ride. ALWAYS BRING A LITTLE MORE CLOTHING (and food and water) THAN YOU THINK YOU WILL NEED.
Monday:
The CV Composite Team is invited to join in with Santa Clarita Team and the Burbank team to ride with them. It will be a good chance to check out new MTB terrain. If you want to stay for the BBQ, let them know as below and consider bringing some BBQ food to contribute. Talk to team mates or coaches about the possibility of carpooling if you need a ride.
Team Practice with Burroughs Racing Castaic Recreation Center
Monday, February 21 at 9:30am
Location: Castaic Recreation Center 31230 Castaic Road Castaic CA 91384
All league teams are invited...Holiday ride and BBQ. Time trial and practice race course will be going on! Bring your family and we will supply the BBQ for (Hart Dist. Team). Please let me know how many will be joining us after the ride. ironmanx2@earthlink.net
Parents if you could help with side dishes that would be great, Remember team events NO caffeine!!! Just like the races will be!
CV Park at 11am
WEATHER PERMITTING… Meet at CV park (corner of New York & Honolulu). We will do some climbing in the Verdugos breaking up into various groups taking different routes depending on ability, time limits, number of coaches and weather. We can ride if it is a little wet, but if it is raining too hard or too stormy, we will not ride. ALWAYS BRING A LITTLE MORE CLOTHING (and food and water) THAN YOU THINK YOU WILL NEED.
Monday:
The CV Composite Team is invited to join in with Santa Clarita Team and the Burbank team to ride with them. It will be a good chance to check out new MTB terrain. If you want to stay for the BBQ, let them know as below and consider bringing some BBQ food to contribute. Talk to team mates or coaches about the possibility of carpooling if you need a ride.
Team Practice with Burroughs Racing Castaic Recreation Center
Monday, February 21 at 9:30am
Location: Castaic Recreation Center 31230 Castaic Road Castaic CA 91384
All league teams are invited...Holiday ride and BBQ. Time trial and practice race course will be going on! Bring your family and we will supply the BBQ for (Hart Dist. Team). Please let me know how many will be joining us after the ride. ironmanx2@earthlink.net
Parents if you could help with side dishes that would be great, Remember team events NO caffeine!!! Just like the races will be!
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Weekend of Feb 26th
I have arranged for Pasadena Mountain Bike Club (PMBC) to host a practice at Bonelli Park on Saturday, February 26th starting at 9am . I expect they will have a tent up and mechanic there like they did last year plus abundant coaches to lead rides for ALL skill levels. There would be time to do some drills in the grassy park area for half an hour or an hour prior to heading out on the trails, and practicing mass starts for the newer kids would be a fun thing to do. If rain is definite for Saturday, it will be postponed to Sunday instead.
Last year the riding on new terrain was especially valuable for the less experienced kids.
San Gabriel, Burbank, San Marino and St. Francis are all invited; the more the merrier. For any who don’t know, parking at the Park & Ride next to the off ramp and riding into the park saves paying for parking.
- - Banner
Last year the riding on new terrain was especially valuable for the less experienced kids.
San Gabriel, Burbank, San Marino and St. Francis are all invited; the more the merrier. For any who don’t know, parking at the Park & Ride next to the off ramp and riding into the park saves paying for parking.
- - Banner
Monday, February 14, 2011
THIS WEEK'S PRACTICES
Folks,
Our first race of the year is LESS than 3 weeks away. Plan on working hard at practice this week and next to get as much skills and fitness as you can. It may rain Thursday through Saturday so get in a ride whenever you can. DRESS WARMLY! Ride your bike at home on non-practice days, even if it is just slow speed balancing in your driveway and it will help. You will be glad you did on March 5th!
Tuesday - Leaving from Descanso Gardens; 4 to 5:45
Wednesday - SPIN CLASS; In Montrose just west of Anderson Pet shop 3:30 - 4:30
Thursday - Leaving from Descanso Gardens; 4 to 5:45 (Unless it is raining VERY HARD, I will be there willing to ride. Races happen rain or shine so it is good to practice in bad weather.)
Weekend - To be announced. We will see if we can try riding someplace new this weekend
- - Banner
Our first race of the year is LESS than 3 weeks away. Plan on working hard at practice this week and next to get as much skills and fitness as you can. It may rain Thursday through Saturday so get in a ride whenever you can. DRESS WARMLY! Ride your bike at home on non-practice days, even if it is just slow speed balancing in your driveway and it will help. You will be glad you did on March 5th!
Tuesday - Leaving from Descanso Gardens; 4 to 5:45
Wednesday - SPIN CLASS; In Montrose just west of Anderson Pet shop 3:30 - 4:30
Thursday - Leaving from Descanso Gardens; 4 to 5:45 (Unless it is raining VERY HARD, I will be there willing to ride. Races happen rain or shine so it is good to practice in bad weather.)
Weekend - To be announced. We will see if we can try riding someplace new this weekend
- - Banner
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
SoCal Race Registration Details
Rider registration for the 2011 SoCal High School Cycling League's racing series is now open! Team Directors can now log into the NICA Pit Zone and invite their athletes to register for the races. Riders and parents, check your email inbox for an invitation from your Team Director inviting you to register.
Thanks to new NICA sponsors Maxxis we are offering a registration premium to the first 100 riders to fully register for the series. To qualify the rider must:
Be one of the first 100 riders to,
- Pre-register for the full 4 race SoCal Series,
- Payment must be received (online or by check),
- Signed paperwork must be received (this packet will be emailed to you for printing and signing after you register online),
- Deadline to be fully registered is February 18, 2011.
The first 100 riders to meet the criteria will receive a set of 2 Maxxis tires, 2 inner tubes, tire levers, and a t-shirt. Product will be distributed at the races.
Please be sure to register in advance of the first race. If you are an independent rider, email Tyler@nationalmtb.org for your registration instructions.
For a rider riding with a club to register, their club must be registered with the League. The rider registration flow is as follows:
1) Team Director registers the club
2) Team Director "invites" riders on their club to register by entering individual rider emails into the Pit Zone
3) Pit Zone generates an email which is sent to the rider. There is a registration link in the email.
4) Rider follows the registration link back to the Pit Zone and completes online registration.
5) Payment is completed online or sent in later with signed releases.
After rider completes online registration, Pit Zone emails the rider a series of registration documents.
6) Rider/parent/guardian prints out documents and signs them.
7) Signed documents are mailed to League with payment (if payment was not completed online).
8) Rider is fully registered once payment and signed documents are received.
9) Rider picks up race number at first race!
A few notes on the process and the SoCal series:
Independent riders should contact Tyler Dibble at tyler@nationalmtb.org for registration link.
Registration cost + all four races in the SoCal Series is $210 when paid in advance.
For riders wishing to pay on a per race basis, registration is $50 and each race is $45 (one race would cost $95, two races would cost $140, three races would cost $185, four races would cost $230).
State Championships is NOT included in SoCal Series registration. Qualified teams and riders will be notified later in the season and will pay a separate one race registration fee for State Championships.
Thanks to new NICA sponsors Maxxis we are offering a registration premium to the first 100 riders to fully register for the series. To qualify the rider must:
Be one of the first 100 riders to,
- Pre-register for the full 4 race SoCal Series,
- Payment must be received (online or by check),
- Signed paperwork must be received (this packet will be emailed to you for printing and signing after you register online),
- Deadline to be fully registered is February 18, 2011.
The first 100 riders to meet the criteria will receive a set of 2 Maxxis tires, 2 inner tubes, tire levers, and a t-shirt. Product will be distributed at the races.
Please be sure to register in advance of the first race. If you are an independent rider, email Tyler@nationalmtb.org for your registration instructions.
For a rider riding with a club to register, their club must be registered with the League. The rider registration flow is as follows:
1) Team Director registers the club
2) Team Director "invites" riders on their club to register by entering individual rider emails into the Pit Zone
3) Pit Zone generates an email which is sent to the rider. There is a registration link in the email.
4) Rider follows the registration link back to the Pit Zone and completes online registration.
5) Payment is completed online or sent in later with signed releases.
After rider completes online registration, Pit Zone emails the rider a series of registration documents.
6) Rider/parent/guardian prints out documents and signs them.
7) Signed documents are mailed to League with payment (if payment was not completed online).
8) Rider is fully registered once payment and signed documents are received.
9) Rider picks up race number at first race!
A few notes on the process and the SoCal series:
Independent riders should contact Tyler Dibble at tyler@nationalmtb.org for registration link.
Registration cost + all four races in the SoCal Series is $210 when paid in advance.
For riders wishing to pay on a per race basis, registration is $50 and each race is $45 (one race would cost $95, two races would cost $140, three races would cost $185, four races would cost $230).
State Championships is NOT included in SoCal Series registration. Qualified teams and riders will be notified later in the season and will pay a separate one race registration fee for State Championships.
Monday, January 24, 2011
THIS WEEKS PRACTICES
Crescenta Valley Team,
I know it is finals week but that also might mean you get out of school earlier in the day giving you extra time to study before mountain biking. So we will be having practice as usual at:
Both Tuesday & Thursday leaving from the entrance to Descanso at 4pm.
We are working on putting on a combined weekend practice with the San Gabriel team. I will let you know about that later in the week.
Photo is of team mate Pam racing Cyclocross (she came in second!)
Next week we will try to enter some new stuff (or new locations) into practices.
See you at practice!
- - Banner
Monday, January 17, 2011
THIS WEEKS PRACTICES
CV Team,
This starts our second week of regular 3 per week practices. For any students new to mountain biking, it is important to be at as many practices as possible between now and our first race in 7 weeks. You will be glad you did! On Thursday I’m going to give some stuff away to the kids who have been showing up to practice regularly.
It is also important to get as much time on your bike whenever you can. You can practice slow speed balance in your yard or anywhere! See my other e-mail about Rider Camps Feb 5th & 6th – or on our Blog: http://gusdcycling.blogspot.com/
We may have some kids from the San Gabriel team joining us on Thursday.
Tuesday – leaving from Descanso at 4pm
Thursday – Leaving from Descanso at 4pm
Saturday – leaving from Descanso at 11am
This starts our second week of regular 3 per week practices. For any students new to mountain biking, it is important to be at as many practices as possible between now and our first race in 7 weeks. You will be glad you did! On Thursday I’m going to give some stuff away to the kids who have been showing up to practice regularly.
It is also important to get as much time on your bike whenever you can. You can practice slow speed balance in your yard or anywhere! See my other e-mail about Rider Camps Feb 5th & 6th – or on our Blog: http://gusdcycling.blogspot.com/
We may have some kids from the San Gabriel team joining us on Thursday.
Tuesday – leaving from Descanso at 4pm
Thursday – Leaving from Descanso at 4pm
Saturday – leaving from Descanso at 11am
RIDER CAMPS FOR EXTRA TRAINING & PRACTICE
Below is info on this year’s rider camps. If you are new to the league, you should consider doing one of the camps because it is a good chance to get some good extra practice and extra coaching between now and the first race of the year. I plan on being at the Bonelli Park camp and might be able to help with transportation to it if any CV students need it.
- - Banner
Rider Camps
The League is putting on two one-day rider camps this season. Rider camps are a great way to learn or review skills, make new friends from other clubs, and generally have a great time. Even experienced riders can learn something new at a NICA rider camp or clinic, which emphasizes proper skill, technique and a healthy approach to riding and racing. Also it is a chance to ride in some new territory and on new trails Licensed coaches and assistants provide spot-on training for students of all skill levels. Full information is available on the website:
http://www.socaldirt.org/events/camps/
Dates are Saturday February 5th at Bonelli Park in San Dimas and Sunday February 6th at Cheseboro Canyon in Agoura Hills. Cost is $45 but includes lunch and snacks. ($10 late fee applies if paid within 10 days of camp).
Registration form is at:
http://socaldirt.nationalmtb.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/SoCal.2011.One_.Day_.Clinic.Reg_.Forms_.pdf
- - Banner
Rider Camps
The League is putting on two one-day rider camps this season. Rider camps are a great way to learn or review skills, make new friends from other clubs, and generally have a great time. Even experienced riders can learn something new at a NICA rider camp or clinic, which emphasizes proper skill, technique and a healthy approach to riding and racing. Also it is a chance to ride in some new territory and on new trails Licensed coaches and assistants provide spot-on training for students of all skill levels. Full information is available on the website:
http://www.socaldirt.org/events/camps/
Dates are Saturday February 5th at Bonelli Park in San Dimas and Sunday February 6th at Cheseboro Canyon in Agoura Hills. Cost is $45 but includes lunch and snacks. ($10 late fee applies if paid within 10 days of camp).
Registration form is at:
http://socaldirt.nationalmtb.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/SoCal.2011.One_.Day_.Clinic.Reg_.Forms_.pdf
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Late Notice Saturday MTB Practice
Folks,
Although most of your CV coaches will be getting trained in wilderness first aid this weekend and so hadn't scheduled a practice, the San Gabriel Valley Team has a practice in the Hahamonga Wash and have invited any CV students or coaches who want to take part.
It will be Saturday at 10am at Oak Grove Park (entrance at the east end of Foothill Blvd in La Crescenta, across the street from La Canada High School). Our coach Crystal will be there and maybe some other faces you will recognize.
(10am means on your bike ready to go at 10am)
STAY ON THE TRAILS AND DIRT ROADS IN HAHAMONGA. THERE ARE GOAT THORNS IN THE GRASS WHICH CAN GIVE YOU FLAT TIRES!
- - Banner
Although most of your CV coaches will be getting trained in wilderness first aid this weekend and so hadn't scheduled a practice, the San Gabriel Valley Team has a practice in the Hahamonga Wash and have invited any CV students or coaches who want to take part.
It will be Saturday at 10am at Oak Grove Park (entrance at the east end of Foothill Blvd in La Crescenta, across the street from La Canada High School). Our coach Crystal will be there and maybe some other faces you will recognize.
(10am means on your bike ready to go at 10am)
STAY ON THE TRAILS AND DIRT ROADS IN HAHAMONGA. THERE ARE GOAT THORNS IN THE GRASS WHICH CAN GIVE YOU FLAT TIRES!
- - Banner
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Paramount Ranch Ride & Fundraiser for the League and for CV Team
CV Composite students,
Any rider can take part in the below fund raiser. All you have to do is get commitments from people (parents, friends, anyone) to donate money to your ride totaling $75. Get someone to donate $10/lap and do 8 laps (20 miles)! You’ll be riding with many kids from other SoCal teams which should be fun.
I don’t know if I can be there, but check with other CV coaches and consider coordinating/carpooling with other CV team mates if you want to go.
- - Banner
________________________________________
Subject: Paramount Ranch Roundup Registration is Open
The SoCal High School Cycling League has its first ever fundraising ride on Saturday February 19th at the historic Paramount Ranch which is part of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area in Agoura Hills.
Registration is now open at the event website! You can head there directly by clicking HERE and you can find the website linked from the SoCal League website by looking under the "Events" tab.
To register we are asking adults to commit to raising a minimum of $125 and youth to raising a minimum of $75. There is no additional registration fee on top of that commitment! You will receive snacks while riding, an event t-shirt, a BBQ supper after the ride, and live music during much of the ride and at the BBQ. You'll even find Bob Foster (our race EMT) and his crew roaming the event on horseback.
Once you register, you will be emailed a link to your personal pledge page. You can email the link to supporters or post it on facebook. Your supporters will be able to pledge funds for your ride, and be recognized, directly from your page.
The ride is suitable for team riders, parents, coaches, friends, family, and anyone who supports the sustainability of high school cycling in SoCal. Clubs have the opportunity to raise funds for their own clubs without having to put on their own fundraiser. Be sure to tell your supporters to enter the name of your club when registering. All funds raised over the first $25 will be split 50/50 between the League and your club! Ambitious clubs can really help take care of a lot of season expenses.
The ride takes place on a 2.5 mile dirt loop of single and double track. Each loop brings riders back through the main street of an old west town movie set. The goal is not to complete the most laps. The goal is to ride for 3 hours straight (noon to 3:00 pm) while building fitness and connecting with great folks who support the League.
KTLA news recently did a profile piece on Paramount Ranch. Click HERE to watch it.
We hope to see you there.
Sincerely,
Matt Gunnell
Executive Director
SoCal High School Cycling League
©2011 SoCal High School Cycling League | 736 Cavanagh Road, Glendale, CA 91207
Any rider can take part in the below fund raiser. All you have to do is get commitments from people (parents, friends, anyone) to donate money to your ride totaling $75. Get someone to donate $10/lap and do 8 laps (20 miles)! You’ll be riding with many kids from other SoCal teams which should be fun.
I don’t know if I can be there, but check with other CV coaches and consider coordinating/carpooling with other CV team mates if you want to go.
- - Banner
________________________________________
Subject: Paramount Ranch Roundup Registration is Open
The SoCal High School Cycling League has its first ever fundraising ride on Saturday February 19th at the historic Paramount Ranch which is part of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area in Agoura Hills.
Registration is now open at the event website! You can head there directly by clicking HERE and you can find the website linked from the SoCal League website by looking under the "Events" tab.
To register we are asking adults to commit to raising a minimum of $125 and youth to raising a minimum of $75. There is no additional registration fee on top of that commitment! You will receive snacks while riding, an event t-shirt, a BBQ supper after the ride, and live music during much of the ride and at the BBQ. You'll even find Bob Foster (our race EMT) and his crew roaming the event on horseback.
Once you register, you will be emailed a link to your personal pledge page. You can email the link to supporters or post it on facebook. Your supporters will be able to pledge funds for your ride, and be recognized, directly from your page.
The ride is suitable for team riders, parents, coaches, friends, family, and anyone who supports the sustainability of high school cycling in SoCal. Clubs have the opportunity to raise funds for their own clubs without having to put on their own fundraiser. Be sure to tell your supporters to enter the name of your club when registering. All funds raised over the first $25 will be split 50/50 between the League and your club! Ambitious clubs can really help take care of a lot of season expenses.
The ride takes place on a 2.5 mile dirt loop of single and double track. Each loop brings riders back through the main street of an old west town movie set. The goal is not to complete the most laps. The goal is to ride for 3 hours straight (noon to 3:00 pm) while building fitness and connecting with great folks who support the League.
KTLA news recently did a profile piece on Paramount Ranch. Click HERE to watch it.
We hope to see you there.
Sincerely,
Matt Gunnell
Executive Director
SoCal High School Cycling League
©2011 SoCal High School Cycling League | 736 Cavanagh Road, Glendale, CA 91207
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Start of 2011 Mountain Biking Practices
CV Composite Mountain Bikers,
On Sunday, January 9th at 2pm I will have a skills practice for new mountain bikers at CV Park (the corner of Honolulu & New York Blvd.). Experienced mountain bikers are welcome to come, but the practice will be aimed at newer riders developing basic skills. I urge anyone new to the team to come to this practice prior to the start of our regular practices the following Tuesday which will be on hills and trails. Rain Cancels.
The first REGULAR practice of 2011 will be on Tuesday, January 11th! At Cherry Canyon and we will start from what will be our usual meeting place - the entrance to Descanso Gardens (just south of Verdugo Blvd. on Descanso Dr.). Be sure to bring water, snack and enough warm clothing. We will practice till dusk and so if you will be riding your bike home, you must bring a blinking red light for rear (and white light for front). Heavy rain cancels (possible spin class instead - find out from Ms. Babington or Pettigrew).
The start time is always when we will be LEAVING the meeting place. You need to arrive earlier and be ready to ride your bike at the posted time. We do not want students riding around trying to hunt the team down after everyone has left for the trails.
Sunday, Jan 9th 2-3:30 pm - CV Park (Beginner skills)
Tuesday, Jan 11th 4-5:30 pm - entrance to Descanso
Thursday, Jan 13th 4-5:30 pm - entrance to Descanso
On Sunday, January 9th at 2pm I will have a skills practice for new mountain bikers at CV Park (the corner of Honolulu & New York Blvd.). Experienced mountain bikers are welcome to come, but the practice will be aimed at newer riders developing basic skills. I urge anyone new to the team to come to this practice prior to the start of our regular practices the following Tuesday which will be on hills and trails. Rain Cancels.
The first REGULAR practice of 2011 will be on Tuesday, January 11th! At Cherry Canyon and we will start from what will be our usual meeting place - the entrance to Descanso Gardens (just south of Verdugo Blvd. on Descanso Dr.). Be sure to bring water, snack and enough warm clothing. We will practice till dusk and so if you will be riding your bike home, you must bring a blinking red light for rear (and white light for front). Heavy rain cancels (possible spin class instead - find out from Ms. Babington or Pettigrew).
The start time is always when we will be LEAVING the meeting place. You need to arrive earlier and be ready to ride your bike at the posted time. We do not want students riding around trying to hunt the team down after everyone has left for the trails.
Sunday, Jan 9th 2-3:30 pm - CV Park (Beginner skills)
Tuesday, Jan 11th 4-5:30 pm - entrance to Descanso
Thursday, Jan 13th 4-5:30 pm - entrance to Descanso
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