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    Serenbe Report

    Winter temperatures finally graced Georgia with their presence for the series finale at Serenbe. The rain that held much promise on Friday only did enough to keep the dust and other types of compost down. Faster Mustache not only put on a race, but they provided a party with a roast pig and a keg of beer. Masters racers contributed to the food, and all money raised from its sale went to the Atlanta Bicycle Coalition. The course differed from last year. The start was up the gravel road and was followed by a short jaunt through the woods. Riders did a few turns in the grass and then flew down the gravel road back into the woods. A long climb followed, half rideable and half a forced dismount. The course then went back through the grass, over the barriers, and through a few more turns before popping out at the finish line.

    The Masters races have been some of the most hotly contested of the year. Bob Kuhn (HUP United) realized that he was in third place overall in the Masters 35+ and decided to race down an age group. Bob took the lead early, but Perry Thomas (New Leaf Adventures) stayed on his wheel the first several laps. Bob held on for the win, and Perry took second. In the Masters 45+, Michael Schmid (Nouveau Velo) took the holeshot followed closely by Alan Burton and Lamar Mauney. both of FFCC. The twisty root section following the start and Michael’s rapid pace quickly separated him and Alan from the others. Lamar took lead of the chase. Michael remained on the gas, staying on the front with Alan in tow for the next six laps. On the final lap, Alan took the lead before the dirt road descent with Michael taking back control as the pair climbed into the field for the last time. Alan began the sprint at the barriers hanging on to take the win by less than a wheel. Lamar came in third, securing his series title.

    In the Men's Cat. 4 race, Gabriel Deans won with Matt Sweeney in second. In the Juniors 15-18 Fletcher Lydick (Frasier Cycling) took first, and Corey Bryant was second. In the Juniors 14 and under, Mikey Waine (FFCC) was first. Ian Garrison (FFCC) got second. The Women's Cat. 4 was a battle between Ellison Fidler and Laura Andrews (Free Flite). Ellison has beaten Laura in their previous meetings this cross season. Determined not to let Ellison get the upper hand, Laura took the early lead. Ellison proved a little bit stronger and took the win. Laura held on for second.

    In the Men's Cat. 3, Ian Pruner (Smyrna Bicycles) won with Chris Tavel (Loose Nuts) in second. The Women's 1/2/3 race set a record for the 2011 season. Never before have they had more than 10 racers in every race of the season; they did this year! At several races, there were more Women's 1/2/3 than Men's 1/2 including the series finale. Despite suffering from a sinus infection, Kym Flynn (US Stove-Vantaggio) took off from the line. Both Colleen Paine (Kenda) and Melissa Leigh (ACC) went down in the woods section shortly after the start. Riders got spaced out having to go around them. The chase to catch Kym was on. State Champion Shannon Greenhill (Peachtree Bikes) put in a giant effort to catch her but could never quite get close enough. Behind Shannon, the battle for third was intense as Kim Sawyer (WCP) tried to stay ahead of a surging Elizabeth Lee (FFCC). Even further back, the Augusta Cross Coalition was doing dollar bill hand ups for the midpack riders. This led to much cheering as the ladies stuffed the dollar bills in their skinsuit pockets. (Where did you think they put them?) Kym clenched the series overall with her win, and Shannon was second.

    The Men's A was won by Thomas Turner (Jamis). The battle for second continued as it for the last several weeks between Tim Barrett (Roswell Bikes) and Doug Ollerneshaw (BMW-Litespeed). They traded places several times, each taking their turn to pull. In the final barrier section, Doug put 5 seconds onto Tim. He would hold it to the finish.

    The Single Speed race was a contest between Michael James (Dahlonega Wheelworks) and series leader Dave Marbut (FFCC). Further back, the battle was on to see who of those riders over 21 could take the most beer hand ups or stomach a port hand up. Quite a few people offered beer hand ups, which made the rider's job easy. One rider that wished to remain anonymous said the he was able to get a beer hand up every lap except the last one. Michael would hold on for the win with Dave taking second.

    The 2011 Series may be over, but planning is already underway for 2012. The Georgia Cross Series would like to congratulate all of the series overall winners! Special thanks to all of the race promoters and their volunteers for making the races happen. Thanks to the racers for coming out and supporting the series! Thanks as well to the Board of Directors for another great series!

    Trish Albert southeasterncycling.com



    Augusta Report

    Blue skies, cold temperatures, and windy conditions greeted racers at Lake Olmstead Park in Augusta, GA. The Augusta Cross Coalition put together a very fast, very Euro course. The start was moved up to the ball field's from previous year's location down on the road. This allowed for better spectator viewing and heckling of the racers. The hill climb was moved a few yard to the left. The strongest could ride it, and everyone else had to run it.

    In the Masters 35+, Perry Thomas (New Leaf Adventures) got a small gap early and kept it for the win. Jay Wansley (Peachtree Bikes( was second. In the Masters 45+, Alan Burton (FFCC) took the initial lead followed closely by Bob Kuhn (HUP United), who took over pace making on the pavement on the return from the far end of the course. Bob proceeded to set a furious pace with Alan and Michael Schmid (Nouveau Velo) in tow. Going into lap two, the group of three pulled away from the chasing pack with Bob’s blistering pace eventually dispatching both Michael and Alan. On lap three, Michael and Alan re-connected and continued the unenviable task of chasing after Bob. With one lap to go Bob was in sight courtesy of a chain problem, making the chase appear fruitful. Bob demonstrated why he is state champion recovering from his mechanical issue to claim the solo win, followed by Alan and Michael in the sprint for the lower podium steps.

    The Cat. 4 field was the largest of the day with nearly 30 riders. Series Leader Andrew Rytlewski (Ten Speed Drive) won followed by Joshua Bennett (ACC) in second. Three Under 14 Juniors fought hard in their race. Jack Phelan (ACC) took first. Joe Way (ACC) was second, and Palmer Kling was third. In the Women's B, Zoe Frasier (Frasier Cycling) took the win over Laura Andrews (Free Flite).

    The Women's A field continues to set records. They are on track to have more than 10 women at all of the races for the first time in the series. State Champion Shannon Greenhill (Peachtree Bikes) took an early lead that she never relinquished. Elizabeth Lee (FFCC) and Hope Strode chased but could not catch her. Shannon held on for the win with Elizabeth in second. In the Men's Cat. 3 race Austin Hilliard (HUB Bicycles) won followed by Ian Prunier (Smyrna Bicycles) in second.

    The Men's A field was small but competitive. Behind Thomas Turner (Jamis), one of the most exciting races of the day happened between Doug Ollerenshaw (Litespeed-BMW) and Tim Barrett (Roswell Bikes) for second place. They traded punches every lap. Tim would get a small lead in the technical sections and the Doug would take the lead on the fast parts of the course. Coming up the steep hill for the final time, Tim attacked and was able to hold onto a 5 second lead for second place.

    In the Single Speed race, John Phelan (ACC) came back after 6 weeks off of racing and won. Michael James (Kona World) was second.

    Trish Albert southeasterncycling.com




    2011 Fort Yargo
    Lap Times

    Jrs and Women CX4
    35+ and 45+
    Men CX1/2
    Men CX3
    Men CX4
    Single Speed
    Women CX1/2/3





    Fort Yargo State Championship Report

    A cloudy day greeted racers at Ft. Yargo State Park for the 2011 Georgia Cyclocross State Championships. Large fields were expected as Ft. Yargo made its return to the series after an absence of several years. A fast course provided riders with plenty of turns, two sets of barriers, the iconic beach run, and some rolling hills.

    In the Masters 35+ Shey Linder (C-Town Bikes) took the first State Championship jersey of the day. Nathan Sibley (Aarons) took second. The Masters 45+ Bob Kuhn (HUP United) took the hole shot with Michael Schmid (Nouveau Velo) taking the lead in the first transition from pavement. Bob later regained the lead and pulled away from the group exiting the beach while Michael and Alan Burton (Fulton Flyers) lead the chase to reel him back in. By lap three, Jeff Clayton(GA Neuro) joined Michael and Alan with the group of three chasing after Bob the remainder of the race. Although the gap was reduced, Bob stayed away with the last lap pace separating the chasing three in the final trip through the beach, barriers and grind to the line. The finish order was Bob, Alan, Michael, and Jeff.

    In a very large Cat. 4 Men's race, the leaders separated themselves out quickly. Ryan Wolfe (Georgia Cyclesport) won with junior Fletcher Lydick (Frasier Cycling) in second. In the Women's Cat. 4, Ellison Fidler (Ike and Jane) took home the jersey. Zoey Frasier (Frasier Cycling) and Laura Andrews (Free Flite) rounded out the podium. In the Juniors 15-18 Jansen Linder (C-town Bikes) won with Elliot Barring (Cycle Youth) in second. Taking another state medal, Fletcher Lydick was third. In the 14 and under, Mikey Waine (Junior Flyers) took his first state championship in what his dad, Mike Waine, described as "a long time coming." Blake Johnson from Rome (Cycle Therapy) was second.

    The Women's 1/2/3 field had 19 riders, the second highest number of the year. Kym Flynn (US Stove-Vantaggio) brought several teammates down from Tennessee. Because the US Stove ladies were not eligible for the Georgia State Champion's jersey, there would be a race within a race. As predicted, Kym took off the front early and was never brought back. Her teammate, Paula Burke, took second. Behind them, several Georgia women were battling it out for the podium. Shannon Greenhill (Peachtree Bikes) took third in the race and won the jersey as the first Georgian to cross the finish line. Lisa Randall (Sorella Cycling) was fourth overall and second in the state with Kim Sawyer getting fifth and rounding out the state podium. The Men's Cat. 3 field saw XX win with XX in second.

    Thomas Turner (Jamie) once again came out on top in the Men's Cat. 1/2 in preparation for his bid at the Masters 30-34 World Championship next year in Louisville, KY. The real battle was for second and third. Several riders flip flopped during the race including Tim Barrett (Roswell Bikes), Doug Ollerenshaw (Litespeed-BMW), and Nathan Sibley (Aarons). Tim would step up to the podium's second spot with Doug on the third step.

    What looked like a record number of single speeders took to the start line for the State Championship. Having not raced the Men's 1/2, Eddie O'Dea took to the front early. He was chased early by Daryl Sawyer (FFCC). John Phelan (ACC) towards the end of the race and would hold on for second with Daryl in third

    Trish Albert southeasterncycling.com



    Fort Yargo Cyclocross State Championship Preview

    Racers who have been racing cyclocross in Georgia for only the past couple of years have not experienced the Fort Yargo cyclocross event yet. This course became an instant favorite when it was first introduced in 2005. Fort Yargo was the site of the 2008 state championships and because of the nature of the course it guarantees to sort out the best overall cyclocross racer.

    Before we preview the course let's take care of a little business first.

    1. Fort Yargo is a state park and requires either an annual ParkPass or $5 per vehicle parking fee.
    2. This event will be scored using a chip timing system, bring your own chip if you have one, otherwise one will be provided to you.
    3. USAC state champ medals will be awarded to the top three GA riders in each race category and a state champ jersey to each of the GA winners.
    4. No warming up on the course during races or you will be disqualified from this event and possibly suspended from future races.
    5. Ride hard. Race clean and fair. Have fun!

    Fort Yargo is an exciting spectator-friendly venue offering a 360 degree view of the action from the playground and pavilion area. Crowds gather around and from one location can watch the start/finish lines, multiple barriers, run-ups, podium presentations and the always entertaining beach crossing. Inevitably riders, responding to the taunts of the spectators, test their skills at the beach and see how far they can ride across the sand before they dismount or thrill the crowd with a spill.

    Here's a bit of what the racers can expect to be confronted with. The course begins with an uphill road section, which is not so steep the first couple of times, then the road turns and dives down toward the grass and some tight and twisty action on varying surfaces. Another short section of pavement offers a breather before taking a dirt section through the woods and popping out in another grassy section around the mini golf course. The riders then transition over a couple barriers next to the playground and barrel down the hill and across a bit of gravel toward the beach. Some pro riders have ridden the entire beach but it's not any faster than running. An off-camber hill is the only way back out of the beach and delivers the riders to another set of barriers with a technical approach followed by a short run-up. Remount and pedal back up the hill to the road where you either begin the next lap, or possibly face an all out sprint to decide who is the champion!

    There will be no pre-registration however to get through day-of registration faster you should sign-up now then pay on site.
    * Cyclocross racing age is your age on Dec 31, 2012
    FORT YARGO ENTRY FORM


    Sponsored by:
    The Bicycle Doctor
    GTC - Gwinnett Touring Club
    GBRA - Georgia Bicycle Racing Association




    Marietta Report

    Georgia Cross has been blessed or cursed, depending on your point of view, with gorgeous weather all year for the races. Sunday at Jim Miller Park in Marietta was no exception. Daryl Sawyer put together a great course at one of the iconic Georgia Cross race locations. Two sets of barriers and the infamous run up tested racers technical skills. Jim Miller is the site for one of the longest running weekday Atlanta area cross practices. Some riders were looking forward to having "home course" advantage. Teams were allowed to set up along the road, which provided a great vantage point to see the front side of the course. Much heckling was heard along by riders passing by the team tents.

    In the Masters 35, Chris Wyatt (Peachtree Bikes) took the win, and Perry Thomas (New Leaf Adventures) was second. In the Masters 45+, a group of six got away on the first lap, consisting of James Brookshire (Peachtree Bikes) , Lamar Mauney (FFCC), Micheal Schmid (Nouveux Velo) , Alan Burton (FFCC), Greg Schisla (GTC) and Greg Turner (RBM). Two thirds of the way into into the race, Lamar Mauney attacked and got a gap. Michael and James did most of the chasing while Alan blocked for his teammate Lamar. On the last lap at the top of the run-up, Alan fell trying to re-mount. Lamar kept his gap for the win and retains the series leader jersey. James out sprinted Micheal for second.

    In the 69 rider strong Men's CX4, the top 3 gave everyone else a run for their money. Lee Redfern (Peachtree Bikes) described the start as "crazy, bunched up and fast as any start I've ever done." He took the lead early in the first lap. He traded pulls with Andrew MacRae (Frazier Cycling) and Matt Ragan (Bike Shop of Columbus) their group of three got away from the rest of the field. The second lap was one of trading attacks between the three of them to lengthen the gap. After falling off of the pace on the run up, Lee pulled back, and then Andrew and Matt attacked me on the paved section. Lee fell off again. Andrew won, and Matt took second. Lee hung on for third.

    In the Juniors 15-18 Elliot Baring (Alpha Bikes) took the win, and Luke Broadwell (FFCC) was second. The Junior 14 and under saw a large field with several first time racers including twins Leon and Troy Waine, little brothers of series leader Mikey Waine (FFCC), and several Junior women. Mikey won with Blake Johnson (Harbin Foundation Cycling) in second. The Women's B saw Rebecca Shirley (Small Ring Adventures) take her first win. Ellison Fidler (Ike & Jane) got second.

    Chris Wyatt followed up his Masters 35+ win with another first in the Men's CX4. Joseph Dabbs (Team Momentum) got second. With the series leader absent, the Women's 1/2/3 race was wide open. Elizabeth Lee (FFCC) got a gap early. Kim Sawyer (WPC)I was chasing her solo with a group including Betty Hodges, Catherine Peacock (US Stove-Vantaggio) and Shannon Greenhill (Peachtree Bikes) behind her. They almost caught Kim early on, but she kept pulling away from Betty and Catherine while slowly closing the gap to the leader. Elizabeth took her first Georgia Women's 1/2/3 win followed by Kim. The Men CX 1/2 field saw Thomas Turner (Jamis) win by a wide margin. Tim Barrett (Roswell Bicycles) held on for second. An interesting fact is that the Women's 1/2/3 race had more entries that the Men's 1/2 for the second time this season.

    Smack talk had been high on the Georgia Cross forum all week between Jim Behning (C Town Bikes) and Beth Gearhart (Sorella Cycling p/b BVM Engineering). Beth said that she was going to take Jim down, and Jim said that it was on like Donkey Kong. Beth's family was having some issues, but Jim said "Well having a husband with back pains, a child with an ear infection and another young child at home might allow a compassionate person to cut her some slack but not me." The usual suspects went off the front, leaving the real race to the middle of the pack. The crowds are yelling "Go Beth, Go Beth." Jim had a cramp going up the run up half way through the race, and Beth nearly caught Jim. While Beth did not beat Jim, she was first among the women that were racing Single Speed. Mark Babcock (Nouveau Velo) won, and John Newsome got second.

    Trish Albert southeasterncycling.com



    Marietta Preview

    This Sunday, Jim R. Miller Park returns as host to race number 8 of the Georgia Cross Series. This venue, with its huge, winding field section, is extremely spectator- and family-friendly, so grab your friends and loved ones and come join the fun that is the Georgia Cross Series. The 2011 course will retain many of its defining features, including the steep, clay run-up that racers love to hate; a woodsy downhill portion; rolling, flowing field sections; two barrier sections; and a fast asphalt stretch, but look for a few changes to make this year's version unique. In addition, a team tent area has been designated on the start stretch of the course directly across the street from parking and restrooms. Let the heckling begin.

    photo Trish Albert southeasterncycling.com



    Roswell Report

    Georgia Cross racers were not sure what to expect from the first time venue at Centennial High School in Roswell. Bob Kuhn put together a great course with no room to rest or recuperate. There were 180 degree switchbacks, several short steep hills, fast pavement sections, and slogs through thick grass. A run up and a set of barriers provided off the bike challenges.

    In the Masters 35+, Dave Gearhart (NGCA) took off early. He held the lead until 2/3 of the way through the race when he crashed into a building, tacoing his front wheel and ending his race. Chris Wyatt (Peachtree Bikes) won with Perry Thomas (New Leaf Adventures) in second. In the Masters 45+, the first lap was a matter of the leader going down. Michael Schmid took the holeshot and lead until the short steep pavement hill where he had a spectacular crash on the transition curb. James Brookshire (Peachtree Bikes) bunny-hopped his rear wheel and ended up leading to the base of the run-up, where he lost the front end and smashed the barrier. After that, Michael, Alan Burton (FFCC), and James worked together to pull away from Greg Schisla. By lap 3 they had a 20 second lead and kept trading attacks. No one was able to shak the other two as they continued to put more time on the field.On the last lap, James flatted on the pavement. Michael dropped his chain up the pavement climb,and Alan rode away for the win. Michael held on for second with James in third.

    Sixty Eight riders started the Men's CX4. David Goodman (Frazier Cycling) won, and Matt Ragan (Bike Shop of Columbus) was second. The Junior and Women's CX4 all had large fields as well. The Junior 15-18 was hotly contested. Elliot Baring (Alpha Bikes) took first followed by Adam Christopher (Cycle Youth). In the 14 and under, Blake Johnson (Harbin Cycling Foundation) won, and Nick Oestreich (FFCC) got second. The Women's CX4 was a battle between Ellison Filder (Ike and Jane) and Rebecca Shirley (Small Ring Adventures). Ellison held out for the win.

    Spencer Whittier (Chattanooga Hub Racing) won the Men's CX3, and Hatch Zimmerman (Roswell Bicycles) followed in second. In the Women's CX 1/2/3, Kym Flynn (US Stove-Vantaggio) took off at the start and held on for the win. Shannon Greenhill (Peachtree Bikes) went after her. Behind them a chase group formed consisting of Elizabeth Lee (FFCC), Leigh Hopkins (WCP), Kim Sawyer (WCP), and Bree Ettinger (ATLX) formed. They tried to pull Shannon back. Elizabeth went down and dropped off the group. Leigh and Kim then dropped Bree and stayed together until the finish. Kim took the sprint for third.

    The Men's 1/2 started out with Thomas Turner (Jamis) and Doug Ollernshaw (BMW Litespeed) off the front. Tim Barrett (Roswell Bicycles) chased but could not catch them. With several laps to go, Thomas turned on the gas and dropped Doug. He held on for the win. The Single Speed race was hotly contested. With 2 laps to go, Michael Marthey (Peachtree Bikes) and Dave Marbut (FFCC) were on the front. With one to go Michael attacked up the short steep dirt climbs and the paved road section. It took a half a lap for David to catch back on. David took the front with a quarter lap to go and led into the last few corners. In a hard fought two up sprint, Michael just edged David with a bike throw for the win.

    Trish Albert southeasterncycling.com



    Centennial High School Cyclocross Crusade This Sunday

    Centennial High is proud to host race number 7 in the GA CX series. This suburban course will feature more pavement than the previous six races while still providing a variety of terrain changes and technical turns. The start will be paved and the finish on grass. Racers will get to use our entire campus on a course Bob Kuhn has been on for 12 years.

    Van Michael Salon, a main sponsor of the race, is sponsoring the “Bad Hair Day” run up. They will also sponsor gift cards and premes for the women’s races. Mix 1 will be sponsoring the double barrier section and Alpha Bikes, our other main sponsor, will provide prizes and support for the race.

    The Centennial Junior class will be selling hot dog/hamburger/veggie burger plates at the race in an effort to raise money for prom so come hungry! All racers should park in the dirt lot at the corner of Eves Rd and Scott Rd. No parking on campus. Please adhere to the no alcohol policy on campus.

    Registration and bathrooms will be in the school’s gym lobby located at the rear of the school behind the stadium. See you Sunday!!




    Conyers and Elks Report

    The second double header of the Georgia Cross Series brought racers to Conyers, GA. Elks-Aidmore hosted Saturday's race. Every series needs a technical, hilly course; Elks provided just such a venue. Jim Behning put together a course with plenty of roots, climbing, and tight twisty turns. Rain the night before almost promised to provide real cross conditions with wet Georgia mud. Many racers remember the first year of sloppy mess at Elks-Aidmore. Much to the delight of some, the course was in perfect condition. Most of the rain stayed further north. Many of the fields broke up quickly on the course. It was difficult to see where the competition was because of all of the turns.

    The Masters fields once again provided hot competition. Shey Lindner (C Town Bikes) came out on top in the 35+ followed by Chris Wyatt (Peachtree Bikes). In the Masters 45+, Michael Schmit (Nouveau Velo) took the holeshot. Early in the first lap Lamar Mauney (FFCC) took the lead and set the pace until Michael, Alan Burton (FFCC), and Greg Turner (Velo Voodoo) began attacking. By mid-race the lead group was Greg, Michael and Alan when Greg took another dig putting a gap on Michael. Greg and Alan rode together until the last lap when Alan was taken out at the road crossing by an inattentive racer warming up. Greg waited, but a flat sent Alan to the pits. Greg took the win followed by Michael and Alan.

    In the Men's Cat. 4, Gabriel Denes (Georgia Neuro) was first, and Andrew McRae (Frazier Cycling) was in 2nd. The Women's CX4 and Juniors were challenged by the technical course. Zoe Frazier (Frazier Cycling) won the Women's CX4. Ellison Fidler (Ike & Jake) was second. In the 14 and Under, James Todd (Frazier Cycling) took the win; Nick Oestreich (FFCC) was in second. In the 15-18, the top two finishers were Philip O'Donnell (Team Specialized) and Adam Christopher (Cycleyouth).

    Chris Tavel (Loose Nuts) won the Men's B. Kym Flynn (US Stove-Vantaggio) stole the show in the Women's A. Her teammate Paula Burks was second. Thomas Turner (Jamis) showed fitness that he gained at the Indonesian mountain bike stage race. He took off and was never reeled in. Doug Ollerenshaw (Litespeed-BMW) and Tim Barrett (Roswell Bikes) once again battled back and forth for 55 minutes for second place. On the last lap, Doug accelerated on a hill and left Tim behind. Michael Marthey (Peachtree Bikes) won the Single Speed with Dave Marbut (FFCC) in second.

    The Georgia International Horse Park returned after a year's absence. Shey Lindner designed a classic Georgia Cross course with plenty of turns, a hard run up, and some steep hills. The run up at the back of the course had the addition of 4 barriers to force riders to run it. Cycleyouth provided the volunteers and quite a few entries in the Junior races. Many riders dressed up in costume to celebrate Halloween. Among those spotted were "Dahling", Rainbow Brite, witches, and an angel.

    The Masters started the day off. In the 35+ a small group quickly got off of the front. Over the next few laps, they would shed riders until only 3 were left. Bob Kuhn (HUP United) took the long sprint for the win over Chris Wyatt (Peactree Bikes). In the Masters 45+, Joey Stanley took the holeshot, carrying enough speed through the opening twisties to create carnage behind. A lead group of four (Joey, Michael Schmidt, Bobby Thrash, Alan Burton) became five and then three as Jeff Clayton and another rider joined in. Attack after attack ensued. The final laps came down to Michael and Alan with Jeff close behind. Alan attacked Michael last time up the climb and held the gap with Jeff coming in third.

    The Men's Cat. 4 race saw nearly 70 riders, which makes for a crowded course. Even after a lap, many of the riders were still together. Hutch Zimmerman (Roswell Bicycles) won followed by Andrew McRae (Frazier Cycling). The Junior and Women's CX4 fields were full! Cycleyouth had all of the entries in the 15-18 age group save for 2 or 3. Adam Christopher (Cycleyouth) won, and Jeremy Milton (Cycleyouth) got 2nd. In the 14 and Under, Mikey Waine (FFCC) took a nice win. Proving that the Junior Women are very fast, Zoe Frazier (Frazier Cycling) took her second win of the weekend in the Women's CX4, and Becca Shirley (Small Ring Adventures) took second.

    The Men's B field was large as well. Jake Andrews (GA Neuro) took the win; Austin Hilliard (Hub Bicycles) was 2nd. Kym Flynn once again won the Women's A, but she was followed closely by Nina Elliot (Bi-Lo) from Greenville, SC. Much to the surprise of the cheering crowd, Thomas "Lady Bug" Turner (Jamis) took off at the start, but Doug Ollerenshaw was on his week. Doug would not let the wheel go the entire race. Doug matched Thomas move for move. They would finish 1-2. Tim "The Redneck" Barrett (Roswell Bicycles) finished 3rd. The Single Speed race seemed to be a race to keep chains on as they kept slipping off on the bouncy sections. Several riders were spotted stopping multiple times to put their chain back on. The most ill timed chain drop was during the final sprint. Dave Marbut (FFCC), Austin Hilliard, and Michael James (Kona) were going for the win. Dave's chain dropped. He had to run the last 10 yards but managed to hang onto the third podium spot. Austin was first, and Michael was second.

    Trish Albert southeasterncycling.com



    Conyers/Elks Preview

    Conyers double header weekend at Elks Aidmore and GIHP. It is Halloween weekend so bring your costumes.

    Georgia Cross returns to Elks Aidmore in Conyers for the fourth year hosting a benefit race. Elks Aidmore provides vital support services for foster children and their families. www.elksaidmore.com Please donate as you can.

    Course workers have been out trimming back privet, filling holes, grubbing roots and rocks. Do not worry as there are plenty of gotchas we will miss. We have pre-ridden the course a few times and had practice one Sunday just to make sure the course is up to GAX standards. It is fun filled and challenging.

    This year’s course is almost a carbon copy of last year’s course. A rolling course where you need to relax and recover on the down hills because every downhill has an uphill. We start in the meadow with a slight uphill. We blast on a gentle fast downhill with a left and right and start a slight uphill. Remember on the next lap that every downhill is a recovery section. Next downhill leads us to a legendary part of the course, Beizer Turner Hill. Rumor has it that those two guys seem to be the only two who can ride it and make it look easy. Mere mortals run up it. Some more gentle climbing through the meadows. We get to blast down Root Alley just before the obstacles course climb. I am sad to report that the roots were grubbed and Root Alley is a misnomer. That section is way fast if you are on the good wide line. Pre-ride to find the line. After we pass the obstacle course (part of team building for the Elks programs) we ride Four 180 hill. Left right left right, I hope you got the picture. Pits (spare bikes and wheels) and uphill. Fire Pit turn is fast and up towards Twisty Alley. Twisty Alley starts fast with some gentle turns and then they get more technical and tighter. Part of Twisty Alley is recovery. Out of Twisty Alley past the campground and cabins, past the fire pit towards the upper meadows barriers. “What is that smell?” you say. It is the grill with burgers, hot dogs and veggie burgers for sale. More recovery downhill and off to the small camping and cabins area. Up to the finish line and second pits. Do it again. I do not know where the beer hand off is but I think ATLX crew will stake out a spot.

    What is missing? We took out the lake section after Beizer Turner Hill. We took out some roots and holes. Twisty Alley is a bit more hard packed but we knocked down a few trees so there is still some loose pack.

    What is added? Weather man says there might be some mud. Course is dry and firm today. Saturday may be another story. Property does drain well on half of the course. The other half is legendary. Ask anyone who raced the first Elks race 3 years ago.

    Sunday’s race is at GHIP benefiting Cycle Youth. Race course designer extraordinaire Shey Lindner has pulled together elements from years past to present a unique fun course. The spectator friendly course is definitely less rolling than the Saturday Elks course but it has its share of climbing. Log Hill is now Stair Step Hill in the island. Jim’s Hill near the island is half of what it was in years past but still a little climb. The adventure at Jim’s Hill is if it rains as it could be muddy. One other ride up hill is Elvira Hill. One year a lovely tall woman dressed in black was at the top of that hill cheering us on. These hills are sprinkled about the course along with some twisty sections and even some off camber sections. The course has some flat out drag race sections including the race to the finish line. It will be a fun course.

    photo Trish Albert southeasterncycling.com



    GA CX #3 Savannah Superprestige Report

    The Savannah Superprestige race weekend took place at Oglethorpe Speedway Park in Pooler. The Savannah Wheelmen and Team OSP did a great job with courses on both days. With highs around 70 and sunny skies, the weather was not very cross like, but everyone enjoyed it. The Superprestige Flyover, which is unique to Georgia Cross, made its annual appearance.

    Saturday's afternoon and evening races were held on a short, fast course. Three dismounts slowed riders only a bit, 2 barriers before the Flyover, a small hill with steps shortly after that, and 2 barriers on the infield. The formula for the day's winning moves was for a rider to go solo off the front early and hold on for the lead. In the Masters 35+, Dave Gearhart (NGCA) showed that he is still on form after his win in Macon two weeks ago. Perry Thomas (New Leaf Adventures) took the sprint for second, and John Phelan (ACC) held on for third. In the Masters 45+, Joey Stanley (C Town Bikes) on with Michael Schmid (Nouveau Velo) in second. The Men's C field had a large turnout with over 40 riders. Steve Noiret (Cycle Smart) took off early and held on for the win. Laura Colbert (Loose Nuts) won the Women's B. In the Juniors races, Luke Broadwell (FFCC) won the 15+, and Mikey Waine (FFCC) took his first win in the the 14 and under with Meggie Phelan (ACC) in second.

    The Women's A race was the Kym Flynn (US Stove-Vantaggio) show. She left the field in the first turn and never looked back. Kim Sawyer (Women's Cycling Project), Becca Phelan (ACC), and Elizabeth Lee (FFCC) formed a chase group. They came within sight of Kym but could not catch her. Becca got a slight gap coming around the last turn and held onto it to take second. Kim pipped Elizabeth in the sprint for third. Mclean Harris (Smyrna Bicycles) took a decisive victory in the Men's Cat. 3. His coach immediately catted him up and tossed him into the A race. With Thomas Turner racing overseas, the Men's A race was a match between Tim Barrett (Roswell Bikes) and Doug Ollerenshaw (Litespeed BMW). They traded punches for 60 minutes. In the end, Doug won by a small margin. In the Single Speed race, Michael James (Kona) won, and David Marbutt (FFCC) took second.

    Sunday's courses had the two technical sections opened up, a short bit in the woods before the fast part of the Speedway and around the lake after the flyover. The barriers were removed before the Flyover. Unlike yesterday, it was small groups that got off of the front of the races early. The winner usually came from the move.

    Action was fast from the start of both Masters races. In the 35+, Brady Rogers (ALTX) took off with Dave Gearhart and Bob Kuhn (HUP United) on his wheel. They got a gap on the rest of the field and kept driving. Dave pulled off, and Brady attacked with 2 laps to go. Brady was driving it hard and put several seconds on Bob. Brady waited on Bob, and Bob caught him on the next lap right before the finish line and Brady attacked again. Bob said that Brady's attack was "killing my spirit and breaking my heart." Brady took the win with Bob in second. Dave held on for third. In the Masters 45+, Lamar Mauney (FFCC) and Mark Fasczewski, (Scenic City Velo) were going at each other with all they had. Lamar took his first cross win of the season.

    In the Men's C, Gabriel Denes (Georgia Neuro) won with Andrew Rytlewski (Ten Speed Drive) in second. Laura Colbert (Loose Nuts) won her second Women's B race of the weekend. Rebecca Shorlet (Small Ring Adventures) was second. Both Juniors races saw larger fields on Sunday. Haegan Altizer (FFCC) won the 15+. Mikey Waine took his second win of the weekend in the 14 and under race.

    In the Women's A, Kym Flynn took off again and held on for the win. Behind a chase group containing Christy Keely (Kenda), Elizabeth Lee, Kim Sawyer, and Shannon Greenhill (Peactree Bikes) kept grouping, regrouping, and splintering. On last lap, Shannon and Kim Sawyer were popped off the back. Christy took the sprint for second with Elizabeth in third. After winning Saturday's CX4 race, Steve Noiret moved up and won the CX3 race on Sunday.

    The Men's A race had a small group form off the front containing Doug Ollerenshaw, Tim Barrett, Nate Sibley (Aarons p/b New England Financial) and Ben Renkema (Z Motion Racing). Ben took the win with Doug in second. David Marbut took the win in the Single Speed race, and Matt Kogel (ACC) was second.

    Trish Albert southeasterncycling.com



    Savannah Preview

    Once again, racing in Savannah has returned to the Oglethorpe Speedway Park in Pooler, GA.! The Savannah Wheelmen and TEAM OSP are proud to present the 4th Annual SAVANNAH SUPERPRESTIGE CX DOUBLEHEADER!

    The courses offer the same epic setup as last year which will dictate speed! The event begins on Saturday with races starting in the afternoon leading up to the main events under the lights!!! Yep, once again racers will give it a go on a modified version of the main course that still includes the Two Fingers Flyover! Plus, the OSP Pub will be open to provide your adult beverages and make it a real party! So, get ready for nighttime FUN!! And if night racing is not enough, then be there again on Sunday to watch another knock- down drag-out fight! Chatham Parkway Subaru will have select cars with crossbikes mounted will be available to check out, Atlantic Foot and Ankle Specialists will be in house, a massage therapist will be at your service to ward off racing or spectating soreness, and tunes will be available for your listening pleasure………. and plan to stop by the Belgian Waffle Stand and donate money for a waffle. Best of all, Royal Restrooms has once again provided a shower trailer! That’s right, a restroom/shower trailer so you won’t need to drive home stinky! Finally a BIG thanks to Quality Bike Shop, Go Tri Sports, Bicycle Link, and Perry Rubber Bike Shop for kicking in swag for the prizelist!!

    Make plans to be at Oglethorpe Speedway Park October 22nd and 23rd for racing that will have you wanting more! Free camping will be offered to racers as well. Further information can be found at www.georgia-cross.com , or by calling 912-508-2560. See you there!




    GA CX #2 Macon Report

    With rain in the Macon area, cross racers were on the edge of their seat early in the morning. Would they get the first sloppy race of the season? Mother Nature only teased them; there was no rain to be found at Sandy Beach Park. Bike Raising provided a fun take on a classic Georgia Cross venue. The course started up the paved road and then snaked through the grass flats. The barriers were on a fast section just before the dirt road downhill. The beach section provided the technical challenges of the day. A fast entry forced riders to choose a quick stop or to try to ride the first part of the beach. Bike Raising chose to snake riders up Cereal Bowl hill. Despite their best efforts, Cereal Bowl hill still claimed it share of riders, who were forced to walk up it.

    A solid field lined up for the Masters. In the 35+, Dave Gearhart (NGCA/Atlroof.com) took off at the start and did not look back. Beth Gearhart, his biggest cheerleader and Women's A racer, said that "the course was perfect for Dave." Bob Kuhn (HUP United) took a tough sprint for 2nd. In the Masters 45+, Michael Schmid drilled it off the line and stayed on the front until the barriers, where Alan Burton made a pass for the lead. Lamar Mauney, who had been squeezed back to mid-pack at the start, worked his way to the front. By lap two the order settled down to Alan, Tim Shank, Lamar and Michael. The four were separated by a handful of seconds. For the rest of the race Alan stayed no more than five to ten seconds ahead of the duo of Tim and Lamar. Lamar played the consummate teammate by forcing Tim to race against two Fulton Flyers. Tim took second, and Lamar was third.

    The Men's Cat. 4 race saw over 50 entries! Chris Tavel (Loose Nuts) came back after last week's second place to take the win. Gabe Denes was 2nd. More large fields lined up for the Junior races. Alexander Dikama and Mikey Waine (Fulton Flyers) went 1-2 in the 14 and under race. Graham Gillis won the 15-18, and Elliot Barimy was in 2nd. Zoe Frasier (Frazier Cycling) opted to race Women's Cat. 4 instead of the Juniors. She took control of the race early and held on for the win. Rebecca Shirley was 2nd.

    The Women's 1/2/3 race started extremely fast. Kim Flynn (US Stove-Vantaggio), Namrita O'Dea (Women's Cycling Project), and Elizabeth Lee (Fulton Flyers) went to the front and pulled the field for the first lap. The race began to split. Kim extended her lead each lap and took the win handily. Namrita and Elizabeth kept swapping places until Elizabeth fell in the final corner. Namrita took second, and Elizabeth was third. After winning the Men's Cat. 4 last week, Spencer Whittier (Chattanooga Hub Racing) moved up and won the Men's Cat. 3 this week. Eric Carlson (Quantum Mechanics) held off a fast charging field for second.

    The Men's 1/2 race was the Thomas Turner (Jamis) show. Behind him was a battle for second. Jamie Saye (Peachtree Bikes) came from behind to take second. The Single Speeders enjoyed a well worn course and varying terrain to test their choice of gear. The first half dozen riders stayed close the entire race. In the last lap and a half, Mclean Harris (Smyrna Bikes) and Mike James (Kona) broke away from the other riders. They stayed glued to each others wheel until the final meter. Riding a slightly bigger gear Mike took the win.

    Trish Albert southeasterncycling.com



    Macon Preview

    Like spaghetti and meatballs is the Sandy Beach Park and Georgia Cyclocross. Back by popular demand this Macon venue is a classic that dishes out painful climbs, screaming dirt road sections and of course a beach section that is on par with Gloucester (sans the ridiculous run-up just afterwards). Georgia Cross veterans will recognize the course from years past but don’t let experience be your ace in the hole. This course is likely to chew up and spit out even the fittest. Team Bike Raising is hosting a bicycle and spare parts collection so tear the lid off your old parts bin, dust off (or leave the dust on) that rickety old ride in your basement and bring your goods to the race. Everything collected will be donated to Bicycles For Humanity. See you SUNDAY!



    GA CX #1 Dalton Report

    A beautiful early fall day greeted racers in Rocky Face, GA for the first race of the 2011 Georgia Cross Series. Jeff Williams opened up his lovely property to racers, and the US Stove-Vantaggio Women's Team promoted the race. The course was laid out on the "Back 50" behind the Gray Barn. The first half of the course was a very typical cross course with lots of tight turns and a set of double barriers. The second half of the course incorporated a newly cut dirt climb through the woods and a rocky downhill to a 180 degree turn up a hill with a barrier.

    The Masters started off the action fast and furious. Shey Linder (C-Town Bikes) won the Masters 35+ with Chris Wyatt in second. The Masters 45+ was won by Paul VanKooten. Bob Kuhn (HUP United) fought hard for second place on a course that he called "a tough power course with little recovery." In the Men's C's, Spencer Whittier (Hub) took off and never looked back. He won by a commanding margin. The Women's B saw Laura Colbert (Loose Nuts take the win. Zoe Frazier (Frazier Cycling) was 2nd. The Juniors races saw the largest group of Junior women ever thanks to the Fulton Flyers, Frazier Cycling, and Augusta Cross Coalition teams. Mikey Waine (FFCC) won the 14 and under, and Brody Hartley took the win in the 15-18 Juniors. Garey Gomez (Aaron's) won the large Men's B field with Austin Hilliard in second.

    The Women's A race saw a record field of 21 riders from at least 3 states. Kym Flynn (US Stove-Vantaggio) took to the front early and held on for the win. Her teammate Paula Burkes and Lisa Randall (Outspokin) gave chase but could not catch her. The Men's A race was small but very competitive. Thomas Turner (Jamis) took the win over Doug Ollerenshaw (BMW-Litespeed). For the first time, Single Speed had their own time in the race schedule. Tennessee resident Bert Hull (Warp 9 Bikes) took the win over Alex Clifford. Georgia State SS Champion David Marbut was 3rd.

    Trish Albert southeasterncycling.com



    Start of Cross Season

    The Georgia Cross Series kicks off October 2 in Rocky Face, GA at the Gray Barn. Racing starts at 10:00 am with the Masters and concludes with the 2:45 pm Single Speed race. In between will be races for Men CX4, Juniors, Women CX4, Men 3, Women CX1-3, and Men CX1-2. There will be a $2 per car entrance fee to the venue. Georgia racers are busy putting last minute preparations on their form. An informal poll on the Georgia Cross Facebook Page showed that riders are still making last minute equipment changes, working on their beverage hand ups, praying to the CX gods, and some are even riding and doing intervals. Bring your cowbells, bring your loudest voice, and come out to the first Georgia Cross race of 2011!

    Trish Albert southeasterncycling.com








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