I have not posted a ride detail on the blog, so I figured now was a good time to start.
Saturday Morning, FREDS in Chesnee, if you need directions, take 85 toward Chesnee from which ever way will you are coming from. Take the hwy 221 exit and follow that road all the way in. Freds will be on your right. We meet there at 9, be ready to roll out by 930. The ride takes us thru some nice horse coutry up in Landrum and Tryon, we climb Hogback Mtn mid way thru and then head back in store stop on the way in and out. Good pace, we do not leave anyone, but the regrouping needs to be fast.
HUMP
Friday, November 19, 2010
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Big Stampede
Man, don't you hate showing up somewhere when you know you did not bring enough money??
That is how I felt today at the Big Stampede at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Big Bike Swap meet. Let face it, alot of this stuff was people trying to clean out the shed, you know who you are. Some things however were good deals on good stuff, and my hawkeyes were really on, I think I had a little spidey sense on some things.
First thing, Joey, Trey and I arrive. This was my first time, so I followed Joey's lead, which lead us right past the entrance door to the back parking lot and to the United Healthcare van and trailer. Knowing that UHC was going to be switching bikes for this year, I figured Joey would have a good chance of scoring a TT frame, but alas it was not too be, they were still really proud of the used ones they had, but while he was comtemplating the need for one of his two kidneys, I spied something of my own. In the bottom of one of the plastic bins was a container of Eurostyle Chamois butter..OOHHHH, Daddy likey this stuff, so I reach in and grab it, uncovering another new container. Oh man, two of these will easily get me close to end of summer. Price was too cheap to mention, so I scored both. Man, that felt good. I bought little man a T-shirt. Well, I actually grabbed it and thought it was one for me without actually looking at the shirt unfolded. You cannot go wrong with T-shirts, no matter whose cycling teams name is on it, you need T-shirts...Remember this when TwoUpSports puts out some merchandise, you need as many T-shirts as you can get.
Next off, we head into the actually meat and potatoes area of the deal. Warmer temp wise anyway in there. I swear if I had a van and about 10 g's, I would have came home with a butt load. There were mountainbikes, some team bikes, other little bits and pieces that I really would have liked. One thing I had my mind set on was the Defeet booth, Defeet is the S-H-I-_, and when it comes to socks during this time of year, the wool they have is great. I scored me six pair and a bag to put the stuff in. I wanted to get me a merino wool base layer, but socks was all they had on the menu. Talked to some people I had not seen since season, which was cool. I then made my way over to the Team Type 1 tent. Oh man, they have an SLR team edition, little scuff, but I have been meaning to check one of these out, but did not want to spring for a new one..Cheap a$$ I know. "Hey dude, how much...?" "10" Wait, there is a Flite team edition, same thing, little scuff, but other than that. " How about this one?" "That one is 15." "How about 20 for both?" "Okay"
Cool, I loved to haggle! Put those two in the bag, and made my way around. I was also on a mission for my boy Jae to see if I could find some good race clinchers for him. I found a guy who had a set of Ksyrium Heliums, but I guess someone told him that this was a show where you brought something, put it on display, but never intended to sell it. I offered, he declined, I walked off.
I found another saddle, and hooked Todd up as he walked in the door, since it was the exact saddle he rides and loves, but in a full carbon railed version. I kick myself now, since I could have turned that one into some quick profit, but hey, sometimes you have to help a brother out.
I saw various other things that I would have liked. There was a set of headlights, that I should have sprung for, even if they only made it thru the winter, the price was a steal. There was also a guy there with a steel single speed Bianchi mountainbike, that I really wanted. I don't have a mountainbike, and this one would have done me just fine on the trails around the house. I wished I could have waited on him to really start squirming not to have to take that one back home with him.
All in all, I felt like I did well, and I know that next season, I am going with more coin and make sure I get some other things I want.
HUMP
That is how I felt today at the Big Stampede at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Big Bike Swap meet. Let face it, alot of this stuff was people trying to clean out the shed, you know who you are. Some things however were good deals on good stuff, and my hawkeyes were really on, I think I had a little spidey sense on some things.
First thing, Joey, Trey and I arrive. This was my first time, so I followed Joey's lead, which lead us right past the entrance door to the back parking lot and to the United Healthcare van and trailer. Knowing that UHC was going to be switching bikes for this year, I figured Joey would have a good chance of scoring a TT frame, but alas it was not too be, they were still really proud of the used ones they had, but while he was comtemplating the need for one of his two kidneys, I spied something of my own. In the bottom of one of the plastic bins was a container of Eurostyle Chamois butter..OOHHHH, Daddy likey this stuff, so I reach in and grab it, uncovering another new container. Oh man, two of these will easily get me close to end of summer. Price was too cheap to mention, so I scored both. Man, that felt good. I bought little man a T-shirt. Well, I actually grabbed it and thought it was one for me without actually looking at the shirt unfolded. You cannot go wrong with T-shirts, no matter whose cycling teams name is on it, you need T-shirts...Remember this when TwoUpSports puts out some merchandise, you need as many T-shirts as you can get.
Next off, we head into the actually meat and potatoes area of the deal. Warmer temp wise anyway in there. I swear if I had a van and about 10 g's, I would have came home with a butt load. There were mountainbikes, some team bikes, other little bits and pieces that I really would have liked. One thing I had my mind set on was the Defeet booth, Defeet is the S-H-I-_, and when it comes to socks during this time of year, the wool they have is great. I scored me six pair and a bag to put the stuff in. I wanted to get me a merino wool base layer, but socks was all they had on the menu. Talked to some people I had not seen since season, which was cool. I then made my way over to the Team Type 1 tent. Oh man, they have an SLR team edition, little scuff, but I have been meaning to check one of these out, but did not want to spring for a new one..Cheap a$$ I know. "Hey dude, how much...?" "10" Wait, there is a Flite team edition, same thing, little scuff, but other than that. " How about this one?" "That one is 15." "How about 20 for both?" "Okay"
Cool, I loved to haggle! Put those two in the bag, and made my way around. I was also on a mission for my boy Jae to see if I could find some good race clinchers for him. I found a guy who had a set of Ksyrium Heliums, but I guess someone told him that this was a show where you brought something, put it on display, but never intended to sell it. I offered, he declined, I walked off.
I found another saddle, and hooked Todd up as he walked in the door, since it was the exact saddle he rides and loves, but in a full carbon railed version. I kick myself now, since I could have turned that one into some quick profit, but hey, sometimes you have to help a brother out.
I saw various other things that I would have liked. There was a set of headlights, that I should have sprung for, even if they only made it thru the winter, the price was a steal. There was also a guy there with a steel single speed Bianchi mountainbike, that I really wanted. I don't have a mountainbike, and this one would have done me just fine on the trails around the house. I wished I could have waited on him to really start squirming not to have to take that one back home with him.
All in all, I felt like I did well, and I know that next season, I am going with more coin and make sure I get some other things I want.
HUMP
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Testing a new saddle
Before I go into how things felt and this and that, remember as always, saddles are like the rears they sit under, they all or different, and some can stink more than others.
Right, now that is out of the way, let's talk about a short stint I spent this past weekend on the Specialized Romin. Jae called in a favor to Sunshine Cycles out of Greenville, and worked out a test saddle from them for the weekend. Since Jae has the Toupe on a bike already, I was the guinea pig for this one. That is cool, we had the coffee ride scheduled, so I figured that was as good a time as any to see what this saddle had to offer, me first, you second...Selfish I know.
First impressions, is that I have seen this design before...SMP have had a center channel saddle in many shapes and forms for a while now, so the design is nothing new. What the Romin does have more of than the SMP is the change in widths for different sits! SMP is now addressing some of this in newer models. I chose the 143 model, based off some measurements on my last fitting. The saddle is made with an intentional kick up in the back, and a curvy profile. The nose is wider than most, but not so wide as to interfere, and it may be more optical illusion than anything, since the front part is fairly flattened. Set was pretty simple if you have the tools and a tape measure. What I first did though was see where it sat over the top of the saddle I had on the bike to see what it would take to get it basically in the same place. Then I measured and re-measured my saddle height, marked the old saddles position so that it could be re-installed post test without problems. I sat the saddle up centered on the seatpost, and with the front tilted lower than the rear, to give me the kick up in the back to push against.
Initial feelings were good, just sitting in the living room. I could definitely feel or rather not feel anything pushing on the soft bits. Check one.
I always have some anxiety about trying something new like a saddle, since it can ruin a good ride. I am happy to say that the ride went off without a hitch, and without any adjustment.
Could I have changed the tilt? Possibly, but things were going pretty good, so I gave it some time. One thing I can say, is I never felt the slight numbing effect of the standard saddles when down in the drops and pushing. I do not run a lot of bar drop, and this saddle allowed me to push back against the rear and get low by bending my elbows. I have read that this is what the saddle was intended for.
Of course, when you pull material away, the pressure is put into another area. In this case, it is the sit bone area. You feel it at the end of the ride. You feel like you have actually been sitting on them, which is the intent of having them in the first place and hence there generic, non medical name...Sit Bones.
Either way, I was a little tender after the ride, but the softer tissue areas were fine. The next day I got in another 1.5 on the saddle with no ill effects, but alas I had to take it back to Jae so he could try it.
I am not completely sold on one yet, but I am leaning that way. Speaking to another guy I know who is a Pro and mad Cyclo Cross racer, he told me that he did not know how much pressure is put on the perinium and soft tissue, until it is not there.
That pretty much sums it up. And for the weight weenies out there, the saddle is light as is, and they make a carbon version.
HUMP
Right, now that is out of the way, let's talk about a short stint I spent this past weekend on the Specialized Romin. Jae called in a favor to Sunshine Cycles out of Greenville, and worked out a test saddle from them for the weekend. Since Jae has the Toupe on a bike already, I was the guinea pig for this one. That is cool, we had the coffee ride scheduled, so I figured that was as good a time as any to see what this saddle had to offer, me first, you second...Selfish I know.
First impressions, is that I have seen this design before...SMP have had a center channel saddle in many shapes and forms for a while now, so the design is nothing new. What the Romin does have more of than the SMP is the change in widths for different sits! SMP is now addressing some of this in newer models. I chose the 143 model, based off some measurements on my last fitting. The saddle is made with an intentional kick up in the back, and a curvy profile. The nose is wider than most, but not so wide as to interfere, and it may be more optical illusion than anything, since the front part is fairly flattened. Set was pretty simple if you have the tools and a tape measure. What I first did though was see where it sat over the top of the saddle I had on the bike to see what it would take to get it basically in the same place. Then I measured and re-measured my saddle height, marked the old saddles position so that it could be re-installed post test without problems. I sat the saddle up centered on the seatpost, and with the front tilted lower than the rear, to give me the kick up in the back to push against.
Initial feelings were good, just sitting in the living room. I could definitely feel or rather not feel anything pushing on the soft bits. Check one.
I always have some anxiety about trying something new like a saddle, since it can ruin a good ride. I am happy to say that the ride went off without a hitch, and without any adjustment.
Could I have changed the tilt? Possibly, but things were going pretty good, so I gave it some time. One thing I can say, is I never felt the slight numbing effect of the standard saddles when down in the drops and pushing. I do not run a lot of bar drop, and this saddle allowed me to push back against the rear and get low by bending my elbows. I have read that this is what the saddle was intended for.
Of course, when you pull material away, the pressure is put into another area. In this case, it is the sit bone area. You feel it at the end of the ride. You feel like you have actually been sitting on them, which is the intent of having them in the first place and hence there generic, non medical name...Sit Bones.
Either way, I was a little tender after the ride, but the softer tissue areas were fine. The next day I got in another 1.5 on the saddle with no ill effects, but alas I had to take it back to Jae so he could try it.
I am not completely sold on one yet, but I am leaning that way. Speaking to another guy I know who is a Pro and mad Cyclo Cross racer, he told me that he did not know how much pressure is put on the perinium and soft tissue, until it is not there.
That pretty much sums it up. And for the weight weenies out there, the saddle is light as is, and they make a carbon version.
HUMP
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Saturday Morning Coffee ride
Woke up this morning, almost late, for the first Saturday coffee ride from Chesnee, SC to Forest City, NC. The ride is an old route that used to be a staple of the upstate for a while. I can remember doing it back before I raced, and before I drank coffee, but it died out. Well, Dennis resurected it this Saturday, and a small group of us got up early in the chilly morning air to ride to the stop.
I drove up to Jae's early, left the house at 6:30am. Looking at the temp the day before, I packed the shoe covers, arm warmers, and vest. I am glad I did, when we started it was 48 degrees. We left from Jae's picked up Scottie on the way, and rolled on over. Dennis and Rick were already there, Michael soon showed up, Joey shortly after. This was the crew. We rolled out thru Harris past the race track, cutting some back roads, all the while trying our best to warm up. It finally started picking up temp, and speed, and we were soon unzipping the vest. There were some good pulls, nothing crazy on the way in.
Forest City is a small town, not unlike many other small towns in our area, not much to talk about, yard sales were the name of the game this morning. We all sat to grab our favorite caffienated fare and a little jabbing at each other. We laughed and joked, talked about the lates cycling news, and how ESPN will televise the world Domino championship, but the only time cycling gets on TV is when someone is doping, and we had plenty of that news this week. My wife mentioned to me that she had saw a chart of doping in sport, and cycling was not even at the top, and that boxing was actually up there pretty high. Funny we never read about that, we always see who the next cycling dope(r) is, but rarely see the big sports stars, until they are completely finished with their careers and then, people still pack the stadiums.
On the way back, the weather was a lot nicer as we made our way back in. Nothing fancy. The ride ended up being a little over 60 miles, which is good for this time of year, when, unless you are racing cross, you are basically in chill mode, which is good.
Oh yeah, on the way in, the cycling fairies shined on me. Found $49 dollars on the side of the road!! It was a good day!
HUMP
I drove up to Jae's early, left the house at 6:30am. Looking at the temp the day before, I packed the shoe covers, arm warmers, and vest. I am glad I did, when we started it was 48 degrees. We left from Jae's picked up Scottie on the way, and rolled on over. Dennis and Rick were already there, Michael soon showed up, Joey shortly after. This was the crew. We rolled out thru Harris past the race track, cutting some back roads, all the while trying our best to warm up. It finally started picking up temp, and speed, and we were soon unzipping the vest. There were some good pulls, nothing crazy on the way in.
Forest City is a small town, not unlike many other small towns in our area, not much to talk about, yard sales were the name of the game this morning. We all sat to grab our favorite caffienated fare and a little jabbing at each other. We laughed and joked, talked about the lates cycling news, and how ESPN will televise the world Domino championship, but the only time cycling gets on TV is when someone is doping, and we had plenty of that news this week. My wife mentioned to me that she had saw a chart of doping in sport, and cycling was not even at the top, and that boxing was actually up there pretty high. Funny we never read about that, we always see who the next cycling dope(r) is, but rarely see the big sports stars, until they are completely finished with their careers and then, people still pack the stadiums.
On the way back, the weather was a lot nicer as we made our way back in. Nothing fancy. The ride ended up being a little over 60 miles, which is good for this time of year, when, unless you are racing cross, you are basically in chill mode, which is good.
Oh yeah, on the way in, the cycling fairies shined on me. Found $49 dollars on the side of the road!! It was a good day!
HUMP
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
End of Season Blues
You know how it is, one month you are riding high, feeling good, then you look down and see that the season is done. That sorta happened to me last week. There are races left, but I also took on the task of starting back to school this semester, and I am feeling the effects of English coming on quick. Paper after paper. Not that I have a problem writing or talking, and if all the assignments were bike related, check please on the 100!!. We all know though that is not how it goes, and the papers are sometimes on topics that lead me to believe that the proffesor is trying to stir the proverbial pot. I keep telling myself, "Just get thru it." but I tell you, I would rather do hill repeats at threshold.
So here I am on the last week in September, reflecting a bit, sulking a bit, and looking at the bike wondering if I want to ride or not. Reflecting is a good way to see where you were and find out where you want to be. One thing I found out about myself is that I was putting way too much pressure on myself in the past. This season, I stepped back from the team and raced for myself. This allowed me to look at the schedule, look at the budget and find out which races suited me, my style of racing and my budget. There were times when I may have scheduled a race, but financially something came up, and we could not go. What this taught me was that sometimes you just have to know when to say no, and go on about training and riding. I learned patience this year as well, being by myself made me think a lot about everything I did in races. It paid off early with a win in the Spring series, followed by another win in Columbia, sc. My biggest month was last month, and I had some of the best results I have posted to date since upgraded a couple of years back to race Pro 1-2.
Now looking into next season, I am back with the team, but the understanding that now I can better race with the guys knowing my strengths and also my weaknesses. Also knowing that I can only do what I can do, and no more.
Next season I hope that the Friday Night Fights will be back bigger and better, well at least better and more numerous, getting bigger is not always better in the american bicycle scene, and as long as we keep things affordable and fun, I think the future of the series is good.
Until next season....
HUMP
So here I am on the last week in September, reflecting a bit, sulking a bit, and looking at the bike wondering if I want to ride or not. Reflecting is a good way to see where you were and find out where you want to be. One thing I found out about myself is that I was putting way too much pressure on myself in the past. This season, I stepped back from the team and raced for myself. This allowed me to look at the schedule, look at the budget and find out which races suited me, my style of racing and my budget. There were times when I may have scheduled a race, but financially something came up, and we could not go. What this taught me was that sometimes you just have to know when to say no, and go on about training and riding. I learned patience this year as well, being by myself made me think a lot about everything I did in races. It paid off early with a win in the Spring series, followed by another win in Columbia, sc. My biggest month was last month, and I had some of the best results I have posted to date since upgraded a couple of years back to race Pro 1-2.
Now looking into next season, I am back with the team, but the understanding that now I can better race with the guys knowing my strengths and also my weaknesses. Also knowing that I can only do what I can do, and no more.
Next season I hope that the Friday Night Fights will be back bigger and better, well at least better and more numerous, getting bigger is not always better in the american bicycle scene, and as long as we keep things affordable and fun, I think the future of the series is good.
Until next season....
HUMP
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Part II
So, we get down to the area of the course, check into the Embassy Suites, right at the start line for the race, score! We are on the third floor, with a corner suite that has two beds, a fold out, fridge and two big TV's. Man we are set. We got all of our numbers the day before, thanks Ashley Trevisio for doing this for the people that signed up for both races, this was a bonus. While we sat there, we decided, this was a good time to get our frame numbers ready and our jersey numbers pinned on so that part would be finished and out of the way.
Chris had decided that it would be cool to go catch a movie, just to sit and chill out, get some laughs in and enjoy the rest of the day. With the bikes ready, we drove maybe 5 minutes to the movie theatre. We got sat down and watched "The Other Guys." Great movie and just what we needed to relax. I even got to throw my froglegs over the seat in front of me, since no one was in it.
Left there for supper which was right next door and then back to the hotel. We were in full chill mode by 8:30. Harkey and I were in one room watching TV while the others were watching the other TV. I told Chris that this was the first time that we were actually ready for the next day at a descent time, usually we are up until close to midnight, which makes for a hard early morning wake up. Not this time, and I think that was really key to success. We all sprang out of bed the next morning, and ate breakfast. The other guys caught up on football, I made some coffee, we had time to get ready and not rush.
The race started fast and furious, with a bad crash that got local man Cleve Blackwell, he is sore, and fortunately, nothing is broken.
A group got up the road, but Big George and Craig Lewis along with Frank Travesio and a rider from Fly "V" were on the front reeling it in. This was perfect, the work I had been doing up to this weekend had prepared me for a lined out fast paced run down. From there it was jump and follow, attack and move. Things happen fast. Four more guys get away and stick it to the end. Myself and John get in a group of about eight and split from the field. I take the last turn first and gun it, and I mean I gave it the gas! I went into full blown time trial mode, picking up speed. I hit the last hill of the day, standing to get every last gear inch I had. On the famous downhill, I continued to pedal as hard as I could, 53X11 to come across the line in 5th place, ahead of the small group. John got 11th, David pulled 30th and Nick on his first time, set his personal bar high with 33rd. A great day, with great friends and a great result. The only thing I could have asked better would have been to be four more place up the road!!
Chris had decided that it would be cool to go catch a movie, just to sit and chill out, get some laughs in and enjoy the rest of the day. With the bikes ready, we drove maybe 5 minutes to the movie theatre. We got sat down and watched "The Other Guys." Great movie and just what we needed to relax. I even got to throw my froglegs over the seat in front of me, since no one was in it.
Left there for supper which was right next door and then back to the hotel. We were in full chill mode by 8:30. Harkey and I were in one room watching TV while the others were watching the other TV. I told Chris that this was the first time that we were actually ready for the next day at a descent time, usually we are up until close to midnight, which makes for a hard early morning wake up. Not this time, and I think that was really key to success. We all sprang out of bed the next morning, and ate breakfast. The other guys caught up on football, I made some coffee, we had time to get ready and not rush.
The race started fast and furious, with a bad crash that got local man Cleve Blackwell, he is sore, and fortunately, nothing is broken.
A group got up the road, but Big George and Craig Lewis along with Frank Travesio and a rider from Fly "V" were on the front reeling it in. This was perfect, the work I had been doing up to this weekend had prepared me for a lined out fast paced run down. From there it was jump and follow, attack and move. Things happen fast. Four more guys get away and stick it to the end. Myself and John get in a group of about eight and split from the field. I take the last turn first and gun it, and I mean I gave it the gas! I went into full blown time trial mode, picking up speed. I hit the last hill of the day, standing to get every last gear inch I had. On the famous downhill, I continued to pedal as hard as I could, 53X11 to come across the line in 5th place, ahead of the small group. John got 11th, David pulled 30th and Nick on his first time, set his personal bar high with 33rd. A great day, with great friends and a great result. The only thing I could have asked better would have been to be four more place up the road!!
US 10K Classic
What can I say? This turned out to be the best result I have had to date in a large Pro field. I have raced this race four times now, the other three not so good times before, except for Chris getting third that year. I had always went fireball McFearson out of the gate and botch any attempt at a late move. Not this time. Something about this year has changed in me, patience has become more of a friend than before, and it has paid off.
The whole weekend started off really well. Stacie, Lindsey (Our niece) and I headed down to Anderson, SC for the Tour DeLaFrance criterium, from Swagger. This was going to be a big pro field as well, with $10,000 on the line, the start list grew all afternoon long. We got there early, since Jae Bowen was racing and I wanted to see how he would do. Jae and I are working with FasCatCoaching out of Colorado, and Rick Kattouf out of Greenville, FasCat takes care of the workouts, Rick is a guru with nutrition. Jae did well, he got away from the field for a while, but the field would not have it.
We started our race at 5:15, and it was warm, but not insane hot like it has been, so I was feeling good. Pre race nutrition was finished, and I was ready. The course was a four corner tight in some areas crit. The front stretch was fairly tight, since it rolled down mainstreet Anderson. I made a move, with Boyd and Joey Rosskopf, but that got nullified. So then I wanted to sit in and see how things panned out and make a late move. Things were going well, I was able to sit in, move up when I needed to and not use a lot of energy. With about eight laps to go, I take the line thru the first corner, and my chain goes crazy. I had hit one of the course monster manholes and it had bucked the bike, causing the chain to come off the front ring, and out of the rear derailler lower cage. I could not shift out of this one, I had to come to a complete stop to pull the chain back into the rear derailleur. I asked the official for a lap, but he said no dice, apparently this is not considered a mechanical, so my night was over. I was ticked, but I calmed down, and just took it for what it was.
I had met Chris, John, David and Nick to head down to Georgia, so I kissed my wife to make my way down.
We stayed with David's girlfriend's parents, which was nice. Quiet neighborhood, and her dad had a 427 Turbofire Vette, so I loved that. Next day we head out for an easy hour before driving on down to the hotel. What happens next has never happened before at this race....
Part II coming up next, stay tuned.
The whole weekend started off really well. Stacie, Lindsey (Our niece) and I headed down to Anderson, SC for the Tour DeLaFrance criterium, from Swagger. This was going to be a big pro field as well, with $10,000 on the line, the start list grew all afternoon long. We got there early, since Jae Bowen was racing and I wanted to see how he would do. Jae and I are working with FasCatCoaching out of Colorado, and Rick Kattouf out of Greenville, FasCat takes care of the workouts, Rick is a guru with nutrition. Jae did well, he got away from the field for a while, but the field would not have it.
We started our race at 5:15, and it was warm, but not insane hot like it has been, so I was feeling good. Pre race nutrition was finished, and I was ready. The course was a four corner tight in some areas crit. The front stretch was fairly tight, since it rolled down mainstreet Anderson. I made a move, with Boyd and Joey Rosskopf, but that got nullified. So then I wanted to sit in and see how things panned out and make a late move. Things were going well, I was able to sit in, move up when I needed to and not use a lot of energy. With about eight laps to go, I take the line thru the first corner, and my chain goes crazy. I had hit one of the course monster manholes and it had bucked the bike, causing the chain to come off the front ring, and out of the rear derailler lower cage. I could not shift out of this one, I had to come to a complete stop to pull the chain back into the rear derailleur. I asked the official for a lap, but he said no dice, apparently this is not considered a mechanical, so my night was over. I was ticked, but I calmed down, and just took it for what it was.
I had met Chris, John, David and Nick to head down to Georgia, so I kissed my wife to make my way down.
We stayed with David's girlfriend's parents, which was nice. Quiet neighborhood, and her dad had a 427 Turbofire Vette, so I loved that. Next day we head out for an easy hour before driving on down to the hotel. What happens next has never happened before at this race....
Part II coming up next, stay tuned.
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Round #2 Friday Night Fights-Go down Swinging!
When this series was named, I envisioned a figurative duking out for the races. Last night did not dissappoint. With anticipations high from the first round of FNF, we were sitting on the edges of our seats hoping the haymakers would be thrown and some good racing would come out of it.
I felt much better this time, things were more relaxed. The pre-reg numbers were up, so logic dictates that the participant turn out would be better. Logic did not lie. We double the participation from the first round, with the Cat4/5 field tripling in size from round one, These guys wanted to fight.
Things kicked off thirty minutes later than last time, which meant racing was going to depend on daylight. City Council had swearing in and those are the people that TwoUpSports has to keep on our side to continue to grow the races into a series that people come to year after year.
On recommendation from some of the racers last round, the start finish line was moved up to the Wachovia bank parking lot, which meant turn four was key and a good strong push was going to be needed to be first across the line.
Cat 4/5 Recap: The first racer were chomping at the bit to get started, so when 6:30 came, they went. Todd Terry got off the front by himself to snatch up a prime, and give it a go, but the field was not having. Everything came down to a sprint finish where David Keesler-Caroina Flyers just edged out Alex Harril for the win. Samuel Hamilton-Catup.com-Palmetto Velo was third with Peter Mathern and Brian Kaden rounding out the top five.
Masters 35+: As soon as the Cat 4/5 field was finished, the Masters 35+ field was off! Last round Pro 1-2 winner Chris Harkey came down early and decided to contest two categories on Round 2, so the racing in the Masters field was hot and heavy. Punches were thrown, primes were won, but in the end, a late move by Chris Harkey-Subaru/Gary Fisher sealed the deal. Chris built up a substantial lead on teh pack finishing ahead solo for the win. The field though, did not let that discourage them from trying to rip each others legs off in the sprint. Eric Christopherson-Metro Reprograhics and Steve Sperry-Globalbike, went to the mat with the sprint with Eric taking second place with Steve just behind. Greenvilles own Cleve Blackwell-Team Ion Sports/United Healthcare taking fourth and Matt Tebbetts-POA Cycling taking fifth.
Main Event-Pro 1-2-3: Once again as soon as one race was over, the guys lined up to race again. This was going to be good. With the highest priced primes of the night, and a field that held some heavy hitters, this was going to be a good race. The guys did not dissappoint. Early on moves went but would get pulled back. The first move to really get some steam was Nick Fishbein-Subaru/Gary Fisher, taking off to grab a prime. He kept the steam rolling, and was joined by Isaac Enderline after Isaac put in an attack that will soon have the D.O.T. out to check the condition of the road surface..Rip It! is an understatment. The two joined forces, but the pack was hungry and they were soon pulled back. Demaine Cyclings Julian Cabra and Adan Escabar both put in majors punches to try and shake things up, but both were brought back. Things started to get interesting when the group split, the front group carrying some of the major hitters and the chase group trying to pull back. In the end, Chris Harkey put in a move to grab the $75 gamblers prime, and that move sealed the deal. Chris kept the motor rolling the wheels turning to take his second win of the night ahead of the pack. Marc Williams-Catup.com-Palmetto Velo was second, with early breakman Nick Fishbein taking third. Rounding out the top ten were:
Isaac Enderline-Atlantic Velo-Virginia
Julian Cabra-Demaine Cycling
Adam Britton-Team Ville
Richard Bailey-Team Ville
Peter Kay-Team Globalbike
Simon Bennet
Adan Escobar-Demaine Cycling.
I hope all who came out enjoyed the racing, keep your eyes open for next season schedule.
HUMP
I felt much better this time, things were more relaxed. The pre-reg numbers were up, so logic dictates that the participant turn out would be better. Logic did not lie. We double the participation from the first round, with the Cat4/5 field tripling in size from round one, These guys wanted to fight.
Things kicked off thirty minutes later than last time, which meant racing was going to depend on daylight. City Council had swearing in and those are the people that TwoUpSports has to keep on our side to continue to grow the races into a series that people come to year after year.
On recommendation from some of the racers last round, the start finish line was moved up to the Wachovia bank parking lot, which meant turn four was key and a good strong push was going to be needed to be first across the line.
Cat 4/5 Recap: The first racer were chomping at the bit to get started, so when 6:30 came, they went. Todd Terry got off the front by himself to snatch up a prime, and give it a go, but the field was not having. Everything came down to a sprint finish where David Keesler-Caroina Flyers just edged out Alex Harril for the win. Samuel Hamilton-Catup.com-Palmetto Velo was third with Peter Mathern and Brian Kaden rounding out the top five.
Masters 35+: As soon as the Cat 4/5 field was finished, the Masters 35+ field was off! Last round Pro 1-2 winner Chris Harkey came down early and decided to contest two categories on Round 2, so the racing in the Masters field was hot and heavy. Punches were thrown, primes were won, but in the end, a late move by Chris Harkey-Subaru/Gary Fisher sealed the deal. Chris built up a substantial lead on teh pack finishing ahead solo for the win. The field though, did not let that discourage them from trying to rip each others legs off in the sprint. Eric Christopherson-Metro Reprograhics and Steve Sperry-Globalbike, went to the mat with the sprint with Eric taking second place with Steve just behind. Greenvilles own Cleve Blackwell-Team Ion Sports/United Healthcare taking fourth and Matt Tebbetts-POA Cycling taking fifth.
Main Event-Pro 1-2-3: Once again as soon as one race was over, the guys lined up to race again. This was going to be good. With the highest priced primes of the night, and a field that held some heavy hitters, this was going to be a good race. The guys did not dissappoint. Early on moves went but would get pulled back. The first move to really get some steam was Nick Fishbein-Subaru/Gary Fisher, taking off to grab a prime. He kept the steam rolling, and was joined by Isaac Enderline after Isaac put in an attack that will soon have the D.O.T. out to check the condition of the road surface..Rip It! is an understatment. The two joined forces, but the pack was hungry and they were soon pulled back. Demaine Cyclings Julian Cabra and Adan Escabar both put in majors punches to try and shake things up, but both were brought back. Things started to get interesting when the group split, the front group carrying some of the major hitters and the chase group trying to pull back. In the end, Chris Harkey put in a move to grab the $75 gamblers prime, and that move sealed the deal. Chris kept the motor rolling the wheels turning to take his second win of the night ahead of the pack. Marc Williams-Catup.com-Palmetto Velo was second, with early breakman Nick Fishbein taking third. Rounding out the top ten were:
Isaac Enderline-Atlantic Velo-Virginia
Julian Cabra-Demaine Cycling
Adam Britton-Team Ville
Richard Bailey-Team Ville
Peter Kay-Team Globalbike
Simon Bennet
Adan Escobar-Demaine Cycling.
I hope all who came out enjoyed the racing, keep your eyes open for next season schedule.
HUMP
Friday, August 27, 2010
Burkes Garden Update
As we posted last week, TwoUpSports, headed out last Friday to go to Virginia. Stopping on the way to meet up with long time compadre Chris Harkey, we set out for Scottie's house where we were to stay that night and be ready for the next day's festivites.
John Delong was going to be at Scottie's as well, so I knew that the laughs and acting up was going to mean that we would probably get in the bed late, but no worries, we were going to have a blast.
Next morning did come early. Scottie was up early, and had a mean brew of Java ready for those who partake. We all say numb from a couple hours less of sleep, but ready none the less. We started talking about the ride, and that got us all hyped up. One the way to the start, the fog was thick, eerie. We passed the time with crazy smart phone antics. Once at the start, we all kitted up and pinned on the number.
Burkes Garden is a gladiator style century. This means that you pay, get your number, and then take off, un-supported! The official route that the record is recorded on is from the Narrows town line, but you start from the parking lot, so the route ends up being 103!
We rolled out fast. averaging over 25 for the first half. Things started to thin out, and once we hit the main climb, it thinned that much more. Up and over the top, this is where the ride gets it's name. You roll into what looks like a large crater. Someone decided to light a torch, I am not naming names, but it was someone in our immediate four! I was tongue hanging hurt. I was ready to get back to the climb, just to recover. And so we did. By this time, it was the four of us, and we were making good time. The record was in dire straits. On the run in, we typically would have been pushing 30 mph, but with a headwind, we were getting beat down. Rolling thru, it was just constant pain cave. Coming in, we did not know if we were going to do it. John was keeping official time, and we pushed all the way.
In the end, we did the 100 in 4:03. I think that was a new record. We wanted to bust the 4 hour mark, but come on, 100 miles in a tad over is the stuff!
We were tanked. We had that feeling in the legs, like you are completely full, not cramping, just muscles aching from the efforts all day. Backs sore from being laid over he front of the bikes, grabbing drops all day. Rear ends sore for a lot of the same reason.
Rolling back to Scotties, the heated seats in the Subaru/Fisher car were a welcome friend. We hit Sharkey's before heading out, to scarf down copiuos amounts of goodness to replace somewhat the large amount of calories that the body must have to perform.
HUMP
John Delong was going to be at Scottie's as well, so I knew that the laughs and acting up was going to mean that we would probably get in the bed late, but no worries, we were going to have a blast.
Next morning did come early. Scottie was up early, and had a mean brew of Java ready for those who partake. We all say numb from a couple hours less of sleep, but ready none the less. We started talking about the ride, and that got us all hyped up. One the way to the start, the fog was thick, eerie. We passed the time with crazy smart phone antics. Once at the start, we all kitted up and pinned on the number.
Burkes Garden is a gladiator style century. This means that you pay, get your number, and then take off, un-supported! The official route that the record is recorded on is from the Narrows town line, but you start from the parking lot, so the route ends up being 103!
We rolled out fast. averaging over 25 for the first half. Things started to thin out, and once we hit the main climb, it thinned that much more. Up and over the top, this is where the ride gets it's name. You roll into what looks like a large crater. Someone decided to light a torch, I am not naming names, but it was someone in our immediate four! I was tongue hanging hurt. I was ready to get back to the climb, just to recover. And so we did. By this time, it was the four of us, and we were making good time. The record was in dire straits. On the run in, we typically would have been pushing 30 mph, but with a headwind, we were getting beat down. Rolling thru, it was just constant pain cave. Coming in, we did not know if we were going to do it. John was keeping official time, and we pushed all the way.
In the end, we did the 100 in 4:03. I think that was a new record. We wanted to bust the 4 hour mark, but come on, 100 miles in a tad over is the stuff!
We were tanked. We had that feeling in the legs, like you are completely full, not cramping, just muscles aching from the efforts all day. Backs sore from being laid over he front of the bikes, grabbing drops all day. Rear ends sore for a lot of the same reason.
Rolling back to Scotties, the heated seats in the Subaru/Fisher car were a welcome friend. We hit Sharkey's before heading out, to scarf down copiuos amounts of goodness to replace somewhat the large amount of calories that the body must have to perform.
HUMP
"Round 2"
Round 2 of the Friday Night Fights race series is set to go off this evening. The weather is looking beautiful. The primes have jumped up this time with $300 in primes! I told you that the payout may be small, but the primes were going to start stepping up.
Turn out should be good, racing will be fast. Come down, race your event, and then hang around to watch the rest of the races, or hit one of the many restaurants that you will pass on the way in.
HUMP
Turn out should be good, racing will be fast. Come down, race your event, and then hang around to watch the rest of the races, or hit one of the many restaurants that you will pass on the way in.
HUMP
Friday, August 20, 2010
Heading to Virginia
TwoUpSports is heading up to Virginia to take part in the Burkes Garden Century on Saturday morning. The route looks to be fairly flat for the first half, then a kick midway, then back flat for the run in. I think it is going to be fun and fast all day.
We will be staying with Kenda Pro Cyclist Scottie Weiss tonight, and seeing as this is his home turf, I look for the man known as "The Energizer Bunny," to have a pretty good go at this ride. There are rumors that the record needs to be broken....Stay tuned to find out if that happens.
HUMP
We will be staying with Kenda Pro Cyclist Scottie Weiss tonight, and seeing as this is his home turf, I look for the man known as "The Energizer Bunny," to have a pretty good go at this ride. There are rumors that the record needs to be broken....Stay tuned to find out if that happens.
HUMP
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Nationals-Redux
Well, from the last post we all know that it was hotter than the devil's playground when we got to KY. It did however cool down to some nice temps the morning of the road race. I had met up with old teammate and good bud Chris Harkey and John Delong the day before the road race to ride over to the course, and watch some of the ladies race, as well as get some openers in. Nothing crazy, just riding. It had been raining that morning, so the ladies had their hands full. Marianne Holt went down in one of the corners to end her day early.
We headed back to the hotel, and got cleaned up.
Next morning, I meet Harkey outside his room at 7:00. Plan was to ride over to the course for warm up and get ready for our 8:00 start. Stacie and Lori were going to drive over for feedzone support.
In my mind, I was hoping to make the podium. Of course I would love to put on the stars and stripes, but being now in the 35-39 field, the competition is fierce, this is basically a pro race, and it felt like one. I have to say that this was the toughest race I have done in a long time. We did 14 laps of the 5 mile course in 2:38!
Early on Michael Olheiser (Look him up, I don't need to go into detail here) took off with two in tow. In tow is right, because he promptly started dropping the baggage off.
I attacked to get with a small chase that was heading out, that looked promising, but it was not to be. From then on it was basically the same scenario, I would try to get away, get in small groups, generally with the same people, and the pack would pull it back. It got frustrating, because leading up to this race, I was feeling pretty good, but I can tell you I suffered all day. I think it was just due to the level of the race.
So the break is gone and we are in the latter part of the race. Coming in on the last lap, I start to feel the cramp in my right leg, but I ride thru and it goes away, but only enough to know that if I push hard on the big hill, that it will lock, so I do what I can to get over, but it cost me position. I needed to be further up before the start finish drag.
On the hill up past the feedzone toward the SF, I moved up some, but I was too far back to really contest a sprint, I just kept digging to limit the losses and try to post a good result.
I ended up 13th for the day. I felt tanked too. Harkey made a late move, that netted him 3rd, so that was cool.
We left promptly, hit the shower and headed to the zoo for some family time. That was nice, because right after the race when my mind starts analyzing, I got fairly ill, but I got over it and we had a good time.
HUMP
We headed back to the hotel, and got cleaned up.
Next morning, I meet Harkey outside his room at 7:00. Plan was to ride over to the course for warm up and get ready for our 8:00 start. Stacie and Lori were going to drive over for feedzone support.
In my mind, I was hoping to make the podium. Of course I would love to put on the stars and stripes, but being now in the 35-39 field, the competition is fierce, this is basically a pro race, and it felt like one. I have to say that this was the toughest race I have done in a long time. We did 14 laps of the 5 mile course in 2:38!
Early on Michael Olheiser (Look him up, I don't need to go into detail here) took off with two in tow. In tow is right, because he promptly started dropping the baggage off.
I attacked to get with a small chase that was heading out, that looked promising, but it was not to be. From then on it was basically the same scenario, I would try to get away, get in small groups, generally with the same people, and the pack would pull it back. It got frustrating, because leading up to this race, I was feeling pretty good, but I can tell you I suffered all day. I think it was just due to the level of the race.
So the break is gone and we are in the latter part of the race. Coming in on the last lap, I start to feel the cramp in my right leg, but I ride thru and it goes away, but only enough to know that if I push hard on the big hill, that it will lock, so I do what I can to get over, but it cost me position. I needed to be further up before the start finish drag.
On the hill up past the feedzone toward the SF, I moved up some, but I was too far back to really contest a sprint, I just kept digging to limit the losses and try to post a good result.
I ended up 13th for the day. I felt tanked too. Harkey made a late move, that netted him 3rd, so that was cool.
We left promptly, hit the shower and headed to the zoo for some family time. That was nice, because right after the race when my mind starts analyzing, I got fairly ill, but I got over it and we had a good time.
HUMP
Thursday, August 5, 2010
"Hot" in Kentucky.
We are hear in Louisville Kentucky and it is "HOT". We have been seeing close to 100 in South Carolina for the last few weeks but when we got here(KY) yesterday it was 102. We left for supper at about 6 and it was a steamy 104. This is a hot like I have never seen before. The heat index is like 115. Today isn't so bad and tomorrow is supposed to be better. That is good cause racing in 100 + degrees makes for long day.
Race is at 8:00 in the morning. We are all geared up and ready to bring home a jersey or at least get on the podium. Fingers crossed. Will keep you posted. You can follow race updates on Twitter at twoupsports.
Race is at 8:00 in the morning. We are all geared up and ready to bring home a jersey or at least get on the podium. Fingers crossed. Will keep you posted. You can follow race updates on Twitter at twoupsports.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Friday Night Fights-Recap
The first of what we hope many Friday night fights went off last night without issue. We had a decent turnout for the first one, with positive feedback from racers and spectators alike. The ease of getting to the course along with a good fast safe course made for some happy racers. The racing was intense even with the small numbers.
The Cat 4-5 race was won in a solo break away by Jesse Miller from Clemson, SC. Jesse got away and continued to build what proved to be an insurmountable lead over the pack winning with a lot of day light between himself and the other racers.
The Masters 35+ field (One of the highest contested fields in the Southeast) was won by none other than the reigning SC Criterium Champion, Darin Marhanka. Along with Steve Sperry-Globalbike, and Eric Christopherson-Metro, these three men made a show of the course, gaining time each lap on the field and in the end lapping the field on the back stretch. It all came down to the third and fourth corner, and you do not get to be champion by sitting back. Darren made an early move to turn three which set him up to come barreling out of turn four. Daylight between himself and the other two. Eric held on for second with Steve Sperry taking third.
Fouth place went to Jae Bowen-POA Cycling.
Next on the roster was the Pro 1-2-3 field. I put out a call to some fire power from my homies up in North Carolina. Chris Harkey brought three more of the Fisher Road team, Hincapie development had a squad, with other individuals spread out. First lap was raced on the false flat drag up the front stretch at over 30mph. Justin Lowe made a strong mans move and got off the front by himself for some solo lap time. It was not to be for young Justin, with The Fisher Road team in the pack chimping at the bits to get up the road. Next thing I know, the bomb goes off and Harkey is rolling off the front in Harkey style. Gaining time on the field, he is joined by none other than registration extraordinaire Corey Fisher. The two worked together but in the end, Harkey pulled out the "W"!
Corey Fisher was second, with Justin Lowe and Adam Britton taking third and fourth respectively.
I would like to thank all of the sponsors that made this first race a success in my eyes.
The City Of Gaffney
Nestle
Nicks Muffler Shop
Rob's Jewelry
Broad River Electric Cooperative
TwoUpSports
Capri on Main
Fox Hollow Farms
Also thanks to Joey and Nancy Price for driving their pace car and Jae Bowen for helping with setting up the course.
The City came thru on these events allowing TwoUpSports to shut down what we feel is one of the best crit courses in the area. We had numerous kudos from everyone on how they enjoyed the course. Next up is Friday Night Fights-August 27th Same time, racing starts at 6:00PM, and could go into the twilight time, since the streets have lights!
Come join in, tell a friend, bring a friend, heck bring a truck load of friends.
HUMP
The Cat 4-5 race was won in a solo break away by Jesse Miller from Clemson, SC. Jesse got away and continued to build what proved to be an insurmountable lead over the pack winning with a lot of day light between himself and the other racers.
The Masters 35+ field (One of the highest contested fields in the Southeast) was won by none other than the reigning SC Criterium Champion, Darin Marhanka. Along with Steve Sperry-Globalbike, and Eric Christopherson-Metro, these three men made a show of the course, gaining time each lap on the field and in the end lapping the field on the back stretch. It all came down to the third and fourth corner, and you do not get to be champion by sitting back. Darren made an early move to turn three which set him up to come barreling out of turn four. Daylight between himself and the other two. Eric held on for second with Steve Sperry taking third.
Fouth place went to Jae Bowen-POA Cycling.
Next on the roster was the Pro 1-2-3 field. I put out a call to some fire power from my homies up in North Carolina. Chris Harkey brought three more of the Fisher Road team, Hincapie development had a squad, with other individuals spread out. First lap was raced on the false flat drag up the front stretch at over 30mph. Justin Lowe made a strong mans move and got off the front by himself for some solo lap time. It was not to be for young Justin, with The Fisher Road team in the pack chimping at the bits to get up the road. Next thing I know, the bomb goes off and Harkey is rolling off the front in Harkey style. Gaining time on the field, he is joined by none other than registration extraordinaire Corey Fisher. The two worked together but in the end, Harkey pulled out the "W"!
Corey Fisher was second, with Justin Lowe and Adam Britton taking third and fourth respectively.
I would like to thank all of the sponsors that made this first race a success in my eyes.
The City Of Gaffney
Nestle
Nicks Muffler Shop
Rob's Jewelry
Broad River Electric Cooperative
TwoUpSports
Capri on Main
Fox Hollow Farms
Also thanks to Joey and Nancy Price for driving their pace car and Jae Bowen for helping with setting up the course.
The City came thru on these events allowing TwoUpSports to shut down what we feel is one of the best crit courses in the area. We had numerous kudos from everyone on how they enjoyed the course. Next up is Friday Night Fights-August 27th Same time, racing starts at 6:00PM, and could go into the twilight time, since the streets have lights!
Come join in, tell a friend, bring a friend, heck bring a truck load of friends.
HUMP
Friday, July 30, 2010
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Am I right for feeling this nervous?
I suppose everyone who has ever put on a race feels the way I do now. I am more nervous than if I were racing, and that is no joke. I want these races to kick off and go, I want the upstate and surrounding areas to see that this is a great event, and support it. I want the turn out to increase each and every time to the point where everyone is talking about it.
I have my fingers crossed, and just focusing on the details.
HUMP
I have my fingers crossed, and just focusing on the details.
HUMP
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Friday, July 23, 2010
THANKS NEAL BOYD
Two Up Sports has to give a big shout out to Neal Boyd for listing us in the Upcoming Cycling Events for our region. We are hoping this will turn into something big that everyone can enjoy.
Thanks NEAL!
Thanks NEAL!
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Getting Closer
Only 11 days until the first FNF race night. I am anxiously looking forward to what this will do for more racing in Gaffney. We have numerous routes all over Cherokee County with varied terrain, so my hope is to grow over time to include road racing and time trials.
I am also working on another area, that many people all over the state have visited, but not for racing. Stay tuned for that one.
HUMP
I am also working on another area, that many people all over the state have visited, but not for racing. Stay tuned for that one.
HUMP
Saturday, July 17, 2010
TWO UP SPORTS IN THE NEWS
By TIM GULLA
Ledger Staff Writer
Beginning later this month, several downtown Gaffney streets will be roped off for a night of racing.
For a region rich in motor sports history, organizers are hoping the “NASCAR of Cycling” will be a perfect fit here.
Billed as the Friday Night Fights, Two Up Sports has partnered with the City of Gaffney to conduct a series of bicycle races in the downtown area. The first of the Friday Night Fights will be held the evening of July 30 before races come back again to downtown Gaffney on Aug. 27.
“We’re hoping these two races draw enough interest to conduct more races next year,” said Gaffney’s tourism projects manager Will DeBorde.
Bruce Humphries, president and owner of Two Up Sports, hopes the races will become regular events next year — ones that both competitors and spectators will be able to count on for action and entertainment.
While some details still need to be sorted out before July 30, Humphries expects the rectangular course will be one mile long with North Limestone and Petty streets serving as the straightaways. The finish line will be in the area of Gaffney City Hall.
“You want to create a course that’s safe, that’s fast, that’s spectator-friendly and can be repeated over and over again,” Humphries said.
Humphries is trying to enlist sponsorships from downtown businesses for things such as lap prizes. He’s also hoping that businesses will be willing to stay open later on race nights and that the races themselves will bring more and more people into the downtown area.
Racers will be divided into classes during the Friday Night Fights with the race for the beginners class starting at 6 p.m., the masters class race starting at 6:45 p.m. and professional class race starting at 7:30 p.m.
The masters and professional classes will each race for 45 minutes followed by three final laps.
Because it’s a timed event and short course, racing will be tight and fast and Humphries expects professional class riders to average up to 30 mph, or possibly faster.
“With it being right there in front of you, you get to see it unfold,” Humphries said. And perhaps best of all, it’s completely free to watch. “It’s the most accessible sport out there,” Humphries said of bicycle racing.
Humphries started Two Up Sports as a promotion company to organize events like this in towns and cities across the region. Gaffney’s central location and easy access off Interstate 85 make it a great city for these types of races, he said. “I’m hoping the guys who frequent races in Greenville and Charlotte will realize it’s an easy place to get to and they can do it numerous times,” he said. And if it brings more people into downtown Gaffney, he said, “It’s a win-win for everybody.”
“This is definitely something we want to have here,” deBorde said. “We think it can really draw (visitors from) outside of Gaffney and potentially bring in some good tourism once it gets bigger.”
For cyclists and potential sponsors, more information can be found at the registration web site , http://www.pre-reg.com/, which has a link to the Friday Night Fights and contact information.
Asked if he would consider trying to compete, deBorde joked, “I get my mountain bike out every once in a while. My legs can’t handle this stuff.”
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Post meeting run down
The meeting with the City went well last night, a representative from the Police department was there and enlightened us on some changes we needed for road closure. I had to change the route a tad just to accomodate some of the changes to roads, but it is still a four corner crit.
I have also been in contact with more sponsors, and it looks to be going well on that end.
Stay tuned for more updates.
HUMP
I have also been in contact with more sponsors, and it looks to be going well on that end.
Stay tuned for more updates.
HUMP
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Friday Night Fights
Here is the flyer for the first two events that TWOUPSPORTS is putting on. The events are criteriums in downtown Gaffney, on a safe four corner course. We hope to increase the number of the events next season to five, all being on the last Friday of the month following the POA Cycling Thursday night races.
TWO UP SPORTS
What is up? I wanted to just let everyone know what TWOUPSPORTS is. I started this company to promote sporting events in my area, mainly cycling events, but I may branch out later.
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