by Cynthia Lou

Today was an exciting day in women’s bike racing filled with aggressive attacks throughout the 13 laps of a 1.5 mile criterium race that included the infamous Chilkoot Hill and its 18% average-grade climb. Shelley Evans and her team Peanut Butter & Co TWENTY12 stamped their determination on the race by driving the tempo from the beginning, eventually landing her in the winning breakaway group ahead of Linda Villumsen (HTC-Columbia), who wore the yellow jersey coming into the stage.

“We had a plan to keep the yellow jersey with Linda [Villumsen],” said René Wenzel, team director for HTC-Columbia. Villumsen started the stage with an 11 second advantage over Evans. “But we also knew it wasn’t her favorite course, the hill was a little too steep so we kept Evelyn [Stevens] as the plan B. The HTC Columbia girls are super happy about having been here. We won three stages – I don’t think we could ask for much more than that.”

“This race is a race of attrition, we knew we needed to make it fast and hard from the beginning” said Evans. “The front of the race is the front of the race, everything behind is just going back. We knew we had to make it hard, not to let people get into a rhythm and put the pressure on from the beginning, push the pressure on over the climb so nobody could get comfortable, so that’s what we did.”

The was a series of attacks from the beginning, with riders from HTC-Columbia, Peanut Butter & Co TWENTY12, Colavita/Baci, Team TIBCO, and Webcor Builders at the front.

“We did as much as we could,” said Team TIBCO team director Emma Rickards. Team TIBCO sent many riders up the road on attacks including Meredith Miller, Brooke Miller, and Ruth Corset. “The girls had a great week of racing, with Ali [Starnes] winning the time trial and being in yellow for a couple of days. Criteriums are not her forte, so to see her maintain that jersey was really awesome to see. The girls had some great racing yesterday and today. It was awesome women’s racing to see the yellow jersey change around so much.”

By five laps to go, a five person break with a 12 second lead formed with Evans, Stevens, Villumsen, Erinne Willock (Webcor Builders) and Ruth Corset (Team TIBCO). On the way up Chilkoot Hill with three laps to go, Stevens launched the decisive attack that would set her up for the stage win. By the top of Chilkoot Hill Stevens had a slight three-second lead, and with two laps to go she had a 20 second lead over Catherine Cheatley (Colavita/Baci) and Ruth Corset (Team TIBCO), while Evans and her teammate Mara Abbott were 24 seconds back.

With one lap to go Stevens had 24 seconds on the chase, enough to put her in the virtual yellow. But the toll of being out solo took it’s toll. Evans, supported by her teammates, were able to close the gap down to just 12 seconds by the time they crossed the finish line. Villumsen finished the stage at just over one minute back.

“I’m marking this as number five,” said Kristin Armstrong, team director of Peanut Butter & Co TWENTY12, referring to her own previous four victories on the bike, and today’s victory as director.

Last year, Evans was second to Armstrong, who won the Stillwater Criterium and the overall general classification.

In true form, the Nature Valley Grand Prix seems to be the place where professional riders are groomed and leave their stamp on the professional circuit.

This year, Evans stands atop the podium in GC, while Stevens stands atop the podium as the stage winner.

“I did this race last year, I think this was my first or second pro-/NRC race,” said Stevens. “It’s nice to see the improvement from a year ago.”

“I raced here in 2008 with the Ryan’s Colegiate All Stars Team,” said Chloe Forsman (Specialized D4W/Bicycle Haus), winner of the Nature Valley Top Amateur Rider Jersey.

“This is the first time I’ve finished more than half of this race, so, I’m pretty stoked about that!” Forsman laughed. “I knew it was going to be a matter of how long I could suffer with the group up the hill and then trying to stay together on the false flat and not lose any wheels on the flatter sections.”

Brooke Miller won her first big NRC race at Nature Valley in 2006, “when I was just a pup!” she laughs. “I love [Stillwater]! And you’re talking to someone who, the first two times I raced it, when the officials pulled me off I thanked them. It’s really hard but it’s just so fantastic!”

The final podium included Linda Villumsen in the Fruit By The Foot Best Young Rider Jersey, Team TIBCO atop the best team general classification, Evans in the Wheaties Sprint Jersey, Mara Abbott (Peanut Butter & Co TWENTY12) in the Jelly Beans Sport Beans Queen of the Hills Jersey, and Evelyn Stevens in the Freewheel Bike Most Aggressive Rider Jersey.

Photo: Matt Moses

Arlington, VA - By most accounts, Hilton Clarke was not even supposed to be racing in Arlington, Virginia this past weekend let alone winning a race he referred to as "the race of 500 corners." But there he was, participating, getting into a six-man break, lapping the field, taking the sprint and standing atop the podium despite missing a week of racing.

Clarke, a veteran of the US domestic cycling scene who once raced for the likes of Navigators Insurance and Toyota-United, was yet the latest victim in the fallout from the Bahati Foundation's association with Floyd Landis and OUCH Medical Center. Although the 30-year old Australian told Velonews late in May that he had been paid in full to date, Clarke chose to leave the once promising Los Angeles based team because of the it's tenuous financial situation.

“Right now no one has been cut, but if anybody wants to make other arrangements, they are free to fly, if they so choose,” stated Bahati Foundation Pro Cycling teammate Nathan O’Neill.

While Clarke would ultimately have to sit out one of the biggest races on the domestic calendar, the Philadelphia International Championship, his hiatus from the professional ranks was extremely short lived as United Healthcare presented by Maxxis picked up the sprinting ace.

“Hilton is one of the top sprinters racing in North America,” said Team Director Mike Tamayo. “When the opportunity arose to add him to the squad, it was an easy decision. He is a Pro Tour-level talent, and he adds even greater depth to our sprint squad.”

Clarke made his debut this past weekend at the 2010 Air Force Cycling Classic and paid immediate dividends back to his new, but familiar squad. “I’ve been racing against this team for a number of years and they’ve always conducted themselves professionally. It will be good to race alongside guys like Karl, Jake and Pinner rather than against them, said Clarke. "And I’m also quite excited to be racing with Jonny once again.”

Involved in what proved to be the final selection, Clarke, teammate Bradley White, Valodymyr Starchick (Amore e Vita), Daniel Holt (Team Type 1), Scott Zwizanski (Kelly Benefit Strategies) and Luis Amaran (Jamis Sutter Home presented by Colavita) broke away from a stacked field midway through the race. Content to let the breakaway succeed, the peloton was eventually lapped by the six-man group.

Safely tucked into the main field, the race turned into a waiting game as teams shielded their lead riders and kept any attempts by riders looking to get back on the lead lap from succeeding. In the end, Clarke displayed his sprinting prowess and easily took the win in front of Starchick and Holt, who finished in second and third, respectively.

Afterward, as Clarke was being interviewed on the podium, his former employer, Rahsaan Bahati would amble by and shout "we miss you Hilton Clarke."

Men's Results - Clarendon Cup
1. Hilton Clarke (United Healthcare presented by Maxxis)
2. Valodymyr Starchick (Amore e Vita)
3. Daniel Holt (Team Type 1)

Homecooking for Hutcheson

While Clarke won the race, local rider Chuck Hutcheson (Battley Harley-Davidson) certainly won the crowd. Off-the-front on several occasions early during the 100-lap race, Hutcheson and breakaway companion Sergey Grechin (Amore e Vita) valiantly attempted to get back on the lead lap once the lead group of six lapped and reincorporated themselves back into the field. Hutcheson and Grechin almost accomplished the improbable, but in the closing laps Hutcheson over-cooked the fifth and final corner. Though he would be given a free lap, a mechanical finally derailed any chance that Hutcheson would pull himself all the way back. Nonetheless, Hutcheson held his own against some of the top riders in the US peloton and through his heroic efforts garnered the adulation of his hometown crowd.

Both Lucky and Good

It has often been said that it is better to be lucky than good. And in the finale of the women's race, Brooke Miller (TIBCO/To The Top) proved to have the killer combo.

While the women's race was less complicated to sort out than the men's, the women's race ended up with the more memorable finish. Unfortunately for Theresa Cliff-Ryan (Colavita/Baci presented by Cooking Light), it came at her expense.

As the sprinters jockeyed for position in the final 100m, a touch of handlebars between Miller and Cliff-Ryan ended up with Cliff-Ryan belly-flopping and skidding along the pavement. In spite of being clearly shaken, cut and bruised, the tough Cliff-Ryan, who has been on quite a winning streak this year, would make her way to the medical tent under her own power.

Undaunted by the crash, Miller cruised to victory ahead of the ageless Laura Van Gilder (Mellow Mushroom) and Erica Allar (Team Vera Bradley Foundation), who won the event last year with BMW-Bianchi.

"It is a really unfortunate way to win a race," Miller told the crowd. "I have immense respect for Theresa because she is an awesome rider and has been racing really strong all season. "

Women's Results - Clarendon Cup
1. Brooke Miller (TIBCO/To The Top)
2. Laura Van Gilder (Mellow Mushroom)
3. Erica Allar (Team Vera Bradley Foundation)

Photos: © Leonard Basobas/LB Photos

See more photos from the Clarendon Cup in our Photo Gallery.

Teutenberg, Routley Take Stage One of the Redlands Bicycle Classic, powered by PossAbilities and presented by San Manuel Band of Mission Indians

Redlands, Calif. — Stage One of the 26th Annual Redlands Bicycle Classic featured nonstop action from the gun. The strong gales from previous years was instead replaced by a calm breeze, giving the professional cyclists a bit of a break and the chance to put their team strategies into full effect on a grueling 17-mile circuit through the streets of Beaumont.

The women's race boasted one of the strongest fields in recent history, with many of the sport's toughest competitors. German Ina Yoko Teutenberg once again proved to be the strongest taking the stage ahead of Brooke Miller (Team TIBCO/To The Top) and Joelle Numainville (Webcor Builders).

"I went after the time bonuses and didn't care about the sprint jersey. My team brought me to the lines on the sprints and closed the gaps," said Teutenberg of the victory.

After the race, Teutenberg marveled at the talent at the front of the peloton. "There was a stronger field this year than there has been in years. All the best American riders were out; the teams definitely brought out their best."

Stage 1 Results - Women
1. Ina-Yoko Teutenberg (HTC Columbia)
2. Brooke Miller (TIBCO/To The Top Pro Cycling)
3. Joelle Numainville (Webcor Builders)

Amber Neben maintained her overall lead in the General Classification with a steady wheel and persistence. "I felt good today. The wind helped keep it together and a lot of people going after jerseys and the stage also kept it together," said Neben, with team Dare to Be-BMW-Bianchi. "I was never in trouble or alone and everything went as expected."

General Classification After Stage 1 - Women
1. Amber Neben (Dare to Be - BMW-Bianchi)
2. Ina-Yoko Teutenberg (HTC Columbia)
3. Mara Abbott (Peanut Butter & Co. Twenty 12)
4. Evelyn Stevens (HTC Columbia)
5. Alison Powers (Team Vera Bradley Foundation)
6. Meredith Miller (TIBCO/To The Top Pro Cycling)
7. Robin Farina (Team Vera Bradley Foundation)
8. Katharine Carroll (Peanut Butter & Co. Twenty 12)
9. Katheryn Mattis (Webcor Builders)
10. Carmen Small (Colavit/BAC/Cooking Light)

In the men's race, Jelly Belly presented by Kenda followed up their strong showing in the Prologue with a standout effort from Canadian Will Routley. In a break of three with Ben Jacques-Maynes (Bissell Pro Cycling) and Luis Amaran (Jamis Sutter Home/Colavita), Routley took full advantage of the opportunity when it was presented itself, out sprinting his breakaway companions to the finish line just 10 seconds ahead of a fast-charging pack. "This is a great start to the season," said Routley. "The team was well positioned at the front and kept each other safe for the finish."

Stage 1 Results - Men
1. Will Routley (Jelly Belly presented by Kenda)
2. Ben Jacques-Maynes (Bissell Pro Cycling)
3. Luis Amaran (Jamis Sutter Home/Colavita)

As a result of the day's events, the battle for the General Classification tightened as a mere six seconds separated the top six men.

The leader on the General Classification, Ben Day of Fly V australia, overcame two bike changes during the race to hold onto his position. "It really becomes a poker game at the last climb; it's not an easy stage. We're happy to hold onto the yellow jersey. Tomorrow's crit is one of the harder races. We are approaching the rest of the stages with the utmost respect. We need to be on our toes and attentive," said Day.

Ben Jacques-Mayne and Will Routely are second and third, respectively, separated by one second.

General Classification After Stage 1 - Men
1. Benjamin Day (Fly V australia)
2. Ben Jacques-Maynes (Bissell Pro Cycling)
3. Will Routley (Jelly Belly presented by Kenda)
4. Carter Jones (Jelly Belly presented by Kenda)
5. Kiel Reijnen (Jelly Belly presented by Kenda)
6. Rory Sutherland (UnitedHealthcare presented by Maxxis)
7. Luis Amaran (Jamis Sutter Home/Colavita)
8. Jeremy Vennell (Bissell Pro Cycling)
9. Paul Mach (Bissell Pro Cycling)
10. Nathan O'Neill (Bahati Foundation Pro Cycling)

Stage Two of the Redlands Bicycle Classic takes its participants into downtown Redlands with one of the fastest, most technical races of the season. The 1.2-mile Beaver Medical Group Criterium starts and finishes on Citrus Ave. giving spectators a front row seat to one of the hottest races of the year and live entertainment and action for everyone.

For more information, including race times, distances, and volunteer opportunities, visit www.redlandsclassic.com.

Photo: © Leonard Basobas

Minneapolis – The 2010 edition of the Women’s Prestige Cycling Series will feature four national-caliber stage races that promise to showcase the country’s top female cycling talent.

The four events take place in four different states, beginning in March and running through to July:

March 25-28 – Redlands Bicycle Classic (California)
April 28-May 2 – SRAM Tour of the Gila (New Mexico)
June 16-20 – Nature Valley Grand Prix (Minnesota)
July 20-25 – Bend Memorial Clinic Cascade Cycling Classic (Oregon)

The Nature Valley Grand Prix has been a part of every Women’s Prestige Cycling Series. The Redlands Classic is in the line-up for the sixth time in seven years, while this is the second year for the Bend Memorial Clinic Cascade Cycling Classic. New to the calendar is the SRAM Tour of the Gila, which replaces the Joe Martin Stage Race.

SRAM Tour of the Gila promoter Jack Brennan said inclusion in the Women’s Prestige Cycling Series takes his race to a new level in its 24th year.

“We have always felt we have a really great race in place, a great organization and great community support,” Brennan said. “Adding the Women’s Prestige Cycling Series to the equation makes this year’s race all the more competitive.”

Four separate competitions comprise the Series: top overall individual, best young rider, best sprinter and top team. Special jerseys, provided by custom clothing manufacturer Champion System, will identify the leaders in the first three classifications.

Champions of the Women’s Prestige Cycling Series in 2009 were Alison Powers of Team Type 1 (top individual), Tina Pic of Colavita-Sutter Home (best sprinter), Rebecca Much (above) of the Webcor Builders Cycling Team (best young rider) and Team TIBCO, which was the top team.

Nicola Cranmer, manager of the Peanut Butter & Co.TWENTY12 team, said it is important for women to have a series they can call their own. The Women’s Prestige Cycling Series originated from input during cycling summits that Cranmer was a part of that were held in conjunction with the Nature Valley Grand Prix.

“Giana Roberge, who directed our team back then, was one of the founders of the series and a huge supporter of women's racing,” Cranmer said. “With Kristin Armstrong at the helm, the Peanut Butter & Co.TWENTY12 team intends to make an impression on the races we are attending. I am a huge fan of the series. David LaPorte and his staff do a fantastic job.”

For an elite team like the TREADS.COM/DFT squad, the Women’s Prestige Cycling Series provides a target to obtain exposure and legitimacy at the national level, said team owner/director Megan Hottman.

“These four stage races really test a team's ability to work cohesively over the entire season,” Hottman said. “I believe our team's focus on balance will result in great placings in the overall series. We're excited to be a part of it.”

For more information about the Women’s Prestige Cycling Series, visit the official website, or send an e-mail to: wpcs2010@womencyclists.com.

Alison Starnes (Team TIBCO) is one of the fresh new faces of women’s cycling. Then again, it might be better said that she is one of the fresh new faces to the sport of cycling all together.

During her collegiate years, Alison’s notions of “spin” and “cycle” revolved more around forehands and backhands, and electrons and Krebs rather than of the two-wheeled variety. An accomplished tennis player and Biochemistry major at Abilene Christian University, she would be instrumental in helping the Lady Wildcats achieve a national ranking in tennis, while her own work on enzymes would garner publication in a prominent scientific journal.

It was only through a post graduate flirtation with the sport of triathlon that Alison would discover her true calling, and some might say her natural self, through cycling.

As a member of the Bay Area based Dolce Vita cycling team, Alison worked her way from entry level to professional in just three short months. Though her initial experience among the professional rank-and-file at the Nature Valley Grand Prix could best be described as “pieced together,” it would also earn her a contract with Team TIBCO.

This past year, her first full year as a professional, Alison experienced the growing pains that usually accompany such a brilliant rise through the ranks, but it was also one that was marked by some exceptional performances, both domestically and internationally as part of USA Cycling.

In my conversation with Alison Starnes, we compare tennis to cycling, look back at her first year as a professional, and discuss how patience is truly one of cycling’s virtues.

Lenny B (LB): You had quite the meteoric rise in classification. After your first full year at the professional level, what are some of the lessons that you learned? Was there anything that surprised you, either positively or negatively?

Alison Starnes (AS): I have learned so much this year it is hard to pick just a couple of instances or experiences. I was very “green” at the beginning of the year, yet I had the opportunity to work with the women of Team TIBCO and learn an incredible amount. Linda Jackson, the team founder and owner, really took an interest in my development and the team supported me throughout the year. The team was extremely patient with me as I made plenty of "rookie mistakes" but they allowed me to grow and develop as they continued to challenge me in each race.

A couple of things I learned this year:

1. Glasses are worn on the outside of the helmet straps.
2. Chamois time is training time.
3. You don’t always need a warm-up, so don’t stress, but it doesn’t hurt. Checking your BlackBerry prior to a race can count as a warm-up.
4. When it is important to stage before a race, and when it is not.
5. How to race really, really, really hard.
6. Respect all your opponents, but fear none.
7. Racing aggressively causes huge gains, and a lot of pain.

However, I think the biggest thing I learned this year, was racing in Europe, and learning how to race. Not just ride around in circles, but to race your bike, hard, race it aggressively and go for it. Team TIBCO taught me to do that, and although it can be painful and difficult, and you may not always win, you learn how to race. This year was a positive experience, acquainting myself with professional racing at its finest, both domestically and internationally.

LB: As a whole, Team TIBCO may just be the most intelligent cycling team around with some extremely accomplished women. If you were to compare brainpans, who would you say is the smartest among the group?

AS: We are a smart group of women, if I do say so myself… If you want to see who is the smartest, you should host a Team TIBCO’s jeopardy or something. Ha. Actually, I think it is common in women’s professional cycling to find many higher education degrees. I am very proud to be a part of such an intelligent group of professional women.

LB: Is that the biggest difference between racing in Europe and in the US, format of racing? Or is the difference deeper rooted as in the mental or physical makeup of the European riders…the culture?

AS: Racing in Europe is hard. That about sums it up. The format only differs in the way they approach the start of the race. They race hard, from the gun, and then they go harder until the finish. It is relentless. The fields are deeper in Europe. Therefore, the competition is hard, intense, and it stays that way. It is pretty incredible. I have been racing there saying to myself, “Surely, they will let up. They can’t go this hard the whole time…” Yet they do. You have to experience it to really understand. I think the deeper fields, and the passion for the sport there fuels the intense racing. These women are strong, and motivated. However, the US women have proven themselves to be some of the strongest riders in the world. We just need to keep gaining the experience of European racing to further our successes. All in all, I love racing there. It is hard, but it makes you stronger. I am ready to go back!

LB: Another rider who exploded on to the scene this year was Evelyn Stevens, who also had a tennis background. I read where her coaches felt that her tennis background may have helped her in a tactical sense while racing. What is your assessment of that theory and how has your own sporting background helped you in bicycle racing?

AS: I had the privilege to race with Evie at La Route de France for the US National Team. She is a phenomenal athlete, and we have a similar story of collegiate sports and quick acceleration into cycling success. People always give me a confused look when they ask me my sporting background and I reveal, "tennis." Tennis is not known for its huge aerobic requirements, such as Nordic skiing, soccer or rowing. However, I will admit, although I excelled in tennis, it always frustrated me. I couldn't practice enough to get where I wanted to go. I felt like my experience was limited to hours in the day and the amount of times you can hit a little fuzzy yellow ball, yet in cycling, I have found my calling. I feel like my options are endless and I have opportunities to succeed and grow. Once realizing that cycling came "natural," I gained confidence in not only myself but my ability. I could never find that in tennis. Tennis taught me that nothing comes easy, and you must be mentally tough to succeed. I struggled to find that solace in tennis, and I have found it in cycling. What tennis showed me where my limitations were, cycling revealed to me my strengths. Tennis taught me hard work, dedication, strategy, and tactics, and I have been able to apply these to cycling. I do miss those skirts and dresses though...

LB: How would you characterize your tennis game…baseliner, serve-and-volley, finesse, power? Have you stepped out on the court since your collegiate days or since you started cycling?

AS: Power player. Yet, when that failed, I turned to a pusher who just tried to run down everything and win with my fitness. I hate to admit that. No power player ever wants to resort to becoming a pusher, but I did it. I had a huge first serve, and then I would float my second serve in and immediately find myself on the defensive instead of the offensive. Did I mention that tennis was a frustrating sport for me? In tennis, you find yourself having to repeat your same mistakes over and over again. Ouch. I haven’t played tennis basically since NCAA nationals...my knees couldn’t take the pounding anymore.

LB: One of the most understated elements of cycling is its mental approach. Each team goes into a race with a plan to execute. Are there any similarities in executing that plan, to say setting up an opponent in tennis for a winning shot?

AS: Strategizing and planning is an integral part in not only tennis, but cycling as well. As a team, we always have a plan that we will plan to execute for the race. It takes each member of the team fulfilling their role to make it a successful day. In tennis, my mantra, although it would not always work, was “Control. Hurt. Finish.” First, you must “control” the point. Set yourself up to then “hurt” your opponent by putting them on the defensive. When they are lunging for a ball, or off-balance, you then “finish” the point. I think this holds true in cycling, and emphasizes how one individual cannot accomplish this, but requires a team to truly dictate the race. Fortunately for me, as a member of Team TIBCO, I have a very strong team to help hold this mantra true in racing. As a team, we want to control the race. We need TIBCO riders in every move, we need to be initiating and covering attacks and in general, “controlling” the race. This takes a strong mental component because you need to be ready for whatever happens in the race. No matter how much your team strategized prior to the race, you cannot plan for the bike race. However, you need to be prepared. Once you are controlling the race, you can then start “hurting” the other teams. By keeping the race hard, fast, or whatever your goal is that day, it puts your team on the offensive, while the other teams find themselves in a defensive state.

In tennis, this may be a severe crosscourt backhand that puts your opponent off the court before you plan your down-the-line winner. Yet in cycling, this is sending riders off the front or developing breaks that our in our team’s favor, thus, causing other teams to chase. Once you are in this position, you can then plan for the finish. Just like finishing a point in tennis, there are a myriad of ways you can finish the race. Not every finish has to be in a break, or even a sprint finish. Team TIBCO is strong and has several cards to play in order to finish the race in our favor. Unlike tennis, where I only had a couple of tricks up my sleeve, in cycling, I can rely on my teammates to assist in “finishing” the race. As a team, we work together to execute our plan, and this can only happen if we first are controlling the race, and then setting our team up for the win. The same way you set up a point, you can set up a race to end in the result that you desire. Just think of the succession of a backhand cross court, angled drop shot, and down-the-line winner, as a lead out train. Thankfully, I have a team to help me do this, because in tennis, it was all up to me. I would find myself trying to “control” the point too quickly, becoming impatient, and then launching a ball over the fence.

LB: Do you sense some of that impatience creeping into your cycling? If yes, how does that bode for you in certain cycling disciplines?

AS: Of course! Patience is required in cycling as well, yet I often find myself “chomping at the bit” to animate a race or start a lead-out sooner than necessary. With my strengths as a cyclist, I like to attack early and often, and I like to make a race hard. Yet, sometimes that isn’t my job yet, or I need to wait. I have learned that sometimes you need to sit in and allow other teams to do some work as well. In a lead-out, you need to be patient and confident to start it when you need to, and not go too early. Thank goodness for race radios! I am learning to read the race better and to just respond, but sometimes it is very nice to be told when and where to be, and how hard to go.

Impatience also shows up in a time trial. You start the effort, and you want to go really fast, right NOW. Instead, I am learning to build into my efforts. I don’t think that impatience is that harmful of a quality to have in cycling, but you also need to learn to relax and burn your matches when they will have the most effect. Luckily for me, if I make an “impatient” move, I can still give myself a chance to recover.

LB: You’ve done exceptionally well in time trial events. What are your ultimate goals…Nationals, 2012 in London, World Championships?

AS: My specialty so far has been the time trial. I really hope to focus on this discipline throughout the year as I continue to develop as a complete cyclist. My goal is to win time trial nationals, then on to the rest of my goals… I really hope to compete at the World Championships and eventually the Olympics. One step at a time, and with a great support team—I will get there.

LB: Some would say that time trialing is in your genes. Who is the better time trialist, you or your grandfather?

AS: My grandfather, has over 12 national time trial jerseys, and he is 79 and still racing! If that isn't impressive, I don't know what is. I think he is probably still the better time trialist. He knows his stuff. I can't reveal any of his secrets, but trust me, he is the real deal. I am still working towards my first National Time Trial jersey... My grandfather is one of the main reasons I am in this sport, and I am truly inspired by him.

LB: What type of time trial course best suits your talents (fast and flat, hilly…short prologue or long)…of the ones you have ridden, do you have a favorite?

AS: Being relatively new at this, I actually haven’t done all that many time trials. The ones I have excelled in have all had a variety of terrains and distances. I like power climbs, I like the course short, I like them long, and I like them difficult. So really, I don’t know what I prefer? I got 5th at the prologue at La Route de France, which was 4.4k long. I loved the short effort and the technical nature of the course. That was my first prologue I had ever done, and I loved it. However, I also loved the TT course at Cascade, which I got 2nd at, because it a long steady climb and a fast downhill. Ultimately, I like time trialing, and I find out to take any course and make it suit me. If you are having “fun” while competing in a time trial, you aren’t going hard enough.

LB: Cycling seems an awful long way from Biochemistry, or is it? Have you been able to apply your analytical skills to the road or in training?

AS: I am a huge science nerd. I love Biochemistry and all it involves. Actually, that is a part of what attracted me to endurance sports, such as triathlon, and now cycling. I love the science in it all. If your training has science involved and you can get really dialed in on what your body requires and how to structure your training around that. That being said, of course I am a "data junkie" when it comes to my training and racing. Even though I don't like discussing that with the general public, I like knowing what I can do and how I can improve. I am fortunate that my coach, Charlie Livermore, at Endurance Performance Training Center uses physiological testing to determine my training plan and needs. I love plotting the graphs and drawing the molecular structures...oh wait, should I admit that? Although science is not the golden standard, it is a valuable tool to use. I use biochemistry not only to clarify my training, but I am not going to lie, sometimes I draw chemical structures in my head to get my mind off of the pain of interval at times... You should have seen me when I went over my nutritional analysis with Dr. Rich Stagliano at Live Fit Medicine when he showed me my personal glycolysis and electron transport chain diagram...can you say science nerd? I loved the information, but I also loved the reminder of that Biochemistry final...

LB: You do realize that you are about one mention of the electron transport chain away from me forever labeling you as “The Big Mitochondria?”

AS: Very funny. I will leave the further ATP generation to oxidative phosphorylation.

LB: At this moment, what would you say is your greatest strength as a rider...weakness?

AS: My strength this year has been my time trial, but I also have had the opportunity to work on all my weaknesses as well. I have loved learning how to perfect a lead-out, how to be a good teammate, how to attack, and how to climb. I have so much to learn, but the good news is, I have the time, the support, and the dedication. I will leave the discussion of my weaknesses for another time....

LB: I have always been a big proponent for women’s cycling, yet like other female sports for every big step forward it also seems to take two steps back, so to speak. What is great about your sport…how would you improve upon it?

AS: What I find the most fascinating about women’s cycling is the opportunity that you can discover there. Cycling offers not only an outlet, but a career for those who have excelled in sport at the collegiate level. You find former soccer players, Nordic skiers, cross-country runners, and maybe a couple of tennis players. It gives us a chance to find a sport that we were meant for, it gives us a purpose, a place, and limitless opportunities. What was frustrating about tennis was that I started tennis when I was a freshman in high school, and I was always behind. I was always struggling against time. I never had enough time on the court to make up the deficit against my opponents. It was an experience issue, and I didn’t have enough time to gain the experience. It was a losing battle. However, cycling gives a chance to aspiring athletes. In endurance sports, women have time to get good educations to live, and to still excel in the sport. Yet, even so, there is so much room for the sport to improve. It is so behind the times as far as equality in sports. I won’t get on a soapbox about this, but the women need increased opportunities, increased visibility, and increased importance. We would love the chance extended to us as well. Equally.

LB: What is one thing that people don’t know about you, and might be surprised to find out?

AS: I am a cowgirl at heart. I grew up on a ranch in Santa Barbara County, then moved up to a ranch in Shasta County. I knew how to ride a horse before I ever knew what a tricycle or walking was. Although I live in Marin now, I am still country at heart.

LB: Does that mean you are a country music fan...if so who are your favorite artists and are they in the queue for training or pre-race warm-up music?

AS: I LOVE country music. My favorites are the classics, like Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, and Merle Haggard... But, I love some of the new stuff too, like Taylor Swift. Yet, that music is saved for the "base" miles... For an interval or warm-up, I have to go with Lady Gaga or the Black Eyed Peas...

LB: Stage Races or Crits?

AS: Of course my instincts are screaming, “Stage Races, Stage Races, Stage Races!” I love the difficulty of stage racing, and the new battle each day holds to ultimately win the war. May the strongest team win. I love it. However, I have learned to like crits, and even dare I say, have fun doing crits! Crits used to make me cry, seriously, and now I love them! It helps to have such a strong team, and it is fun to be able to race them with no fear. To race hard, fast, and aggressively, knowing you can win the bike race. Although I adore the variety of stage racing, crits are adrenaline full and spectator friendly. Ultimately, I would have to choose stage racing over crits, but I have a new appreciation for the criterium and look forward to becoming more accomplished in them…

LB: Top 5 things you cannot live without?

AS:
1. Peanut Butter. I have tried on multiple occasions to give up the stuff, but I must have it. Maybe we should have it put on the banned substance list?
2. My CrackBerry, I mean BlackBerry… It is my only connection to the world at times…
3. My cat. I happen to adore cats more than one person should…
4. Daily dose of Vitamin D. I love being outside and even on a rest day need to get out there and enjoy God’s creation…I get grumpy if I don’t get that…
5. My family. They mean the world to me.

LB: Best experience on a bicycle, to date…worst?

AS: I have so many good days, and so many bad days on the bike. I think when you ride as much as I do, that happens. However, the day that comes to mind was both my best day on the bike and my worst day on the bike.

It was Etape 1 of La Route de France, after the epic prologue where I found success. This was my second trip to Europe for the US National Team, and I was 5th in GC at the start of the stage. Positioning is key in European races, yet it is the most difficult skill to learn. With narrow roads, and large field sizes, moving around the peloton is nothing like you have experienced in the US. The major difference between my first trip to Europe and my second, was that I felt like I belonged there. I was no longer looking for survival, I was looking to race.

When the peloton slowed just for an instance, I saw the perfect opening. It was like the proverbial seas had parted. I launched an attack, and launch I did, right out into the French countryside. Who is with me? No one. Oops. I proceeded to spend the next 60k off the front of the race, solo. I was not just finishing a race in Europe, I was racing! It was an instinct attack, and it was confidence to keep going. It was an exhilarating experience to race through the hills of France with the cheers of “USA” resounding and being the bike race. I wasn’t just settling to be a filler, I was the bike race. I couldn’t believe it. This was the best day on my bike.

Although I put 3:30 on the peloton, I was caught within 10k to the finish. The effort caught up to me, and I was cramping through the finishing circuits. I ended up losing time on the peloton, and was completely demoralized at the finish. I went from a severe high to a relentless low. I needed help getting off my bike, and my body was destroyed. Then it happened. The French came up to me to get me for the podium. They had awarded me, most aggressive rider, or as they translated it, “Miss Combatitivity”. I went from barely being able to turn the pedals to standing on the podium, wearing the USA jersey with pride, and receiving flowers, kisses, and a trophy. My best day on the bike, turned to the worst day, and was transformed into a solid conclusion of recognition not only for me, but for Team USA for racing aggressively, racing hard, and representing. Best days, worst days, it’s all good…

LB: You are in your off-season right now, when will you start to get after it again…any cross or track in your near future?

AS: I have already started to ramp up the training again. I started around November 1st. I would love to get on the track, and who knows, you may see me doing a little cross! Since I have never ridden in the dirt before, I might keep this time and location a secret to spare embarrassment! If you have a chance to catch my inaugural attempts, I am sure it will be entertaining to say the least.

LB: It is a bit early, but what are your goals for next year?

AS: It is early, but I have my goals. I have steps and benchmarks to reach in order to make my ultimate dreams a reality. I want to be a strong rider, and teammate for Team TIBCO and do the roles necessary for our team to have a successful season. TT Nationals is also an important goal. I will keep working hard, get faster, and hopefully attain my goals, one step at a time.

To follow Alison as she navigates her way through the peloton and through life, visit her website, or follow her on Twitter.

Photos: Courtesy Bob Cullinan (CycleTo)

by Sean Weide

St. Louis – Team Type 1’s Samantha Schneider heads into the final race of the Tour of Missouri Womens Series eyeing a third straight top-three finish.

The 18-year-old scored her second straight third-place result on Sunday when she finished behind Giro Della Montagna presented by Specialized Bicycles winner Brooke Miller (Team TIBCO) and runner-up Kelly Benjamin (Colavita-Sutter Home presented by Cooking Light). Miller has won all three races of the series in St. Louis.

Today’s final event is the Tour of Missouri Pro/Am presented by Greenstreet Properties. The 50-minutes-plus-five-laps race takes place on a flat, one-mile course that features the same finish line as this afternoon’s Tour of Missouri men’s professional race.
Schneider said she is looking forward to the opportunity to add to the 71 podium finishes the Team Type 1 women’s professional squad has racked up this season. Today’s race is its final team event of the year.

“I'm feeling better every day so it should be good,” Schneider said. “I want to get better than third.”

Sunday’s race was marred by a massive pile-up 16 minutes into the 45-minutes-plus-five-laps race. Nearly two dozen riders went down, but none from Team Type 1. Schneider said she was glad the rain that may have contributed to the crash had stopped by the time the race was wrapping up.

“It was a really fast last lap,” she said. “It was kind of scary but everyone kept it upright. Coming around the last corner, I was about seventh, which is not the best position. But for a downhill sprint, you don't have to be that far up there.”

This afternoon, fans are invited to stop by Team Type 1’s booth in the Health and Wellness Expo to get a commemorative card autographed by members of the women’s professional, development and men’s professional teams. Team Type 1 sponsors VSP Vision Care and the American Diabetes Association are also part of today’s exposition.

Photo: Courtesy Craig Harding

by Sean Weide

St. Louis – Team Type 1’s Samantha Schneider sprinted to a third-place finish in Saturday’s St. Louis Hills presented by Big Shark Bicycle Company, the second race of the Tour of Missouri Womens Series.

The 18-year-old who started college classes earlier this week scored her eighth top-three finish of the year when she stormed across the line in behind race winner Brooke Miller (Team TIBCO) and runner-up Kelly Benjamin (Colavita-Sutter Home presented by Cooking Light).

Miller’s win was her second straight of the four-race series. She also won a field sprint Friday night at the opener, the Tour de Lafayette presented by Studio 2108.

Schneider said she took the shorter line to the finish, sprinting up the slight rise on the inside of the wide road.

“So eventually it should have paid off,” Schneider said. “But Brooke was stronger than me today. This was definitely one of my best results this year. I’m really confident. The next two days should be really promising.”

Sunday’s race is the Giro Della Montagna presented by Specialized Bicycles. Monday is the final event, the Tour of Missouri Pro/Am presented by Greenstreet Properties. It will share the same finish line (Market at 7th Street) as the opening stage of the Tour of Missouri.

Fans are invited to stop by Team Type 1’s booth in the Health and Wellness Expo Monday afternoon to get a commemorative card autographed by members of the women’s professional, development and men’s professional teams.

Photo: Courtesy Team Type 1

Downers Grove, IL - Amidst the news of her retirement at month’s end, 43-year-old Tina Pic (Colavita Sutter Home presented by Cooking Light) was able to “push the sun back into the sky” just one more time before the twilight of her illustrious cycling career.

During Sunday's USA Cycling National Criterium Championships, Pic would punch the sky in victory for the sixth time on a course to which she will forever be intimately connected. Who could ever forget the frighteningly spectacular crash on the streets of Downers Grove in 2006 as Laura Van Gilder's foot became entangled with Pic's front wheel?

Although less dramatic this time around, the finish to the elite women's race was no less than brilliant as Pic outsprinted defending champion, Brooke Miller (Team TIBCO) and a hard charging Shelley Olds (PROMAN Hit Squad) for the win. Team Type 1’s Jen McRae and Theresa Cliff-Ryan (Verducci Breakaway), whose 2006 fates were also tied to Pic's crash, would round out the top five.

Early on; however, the race, and for that matter the weekend, looked once again like a Team TIBCO party, where everyone was invited to attend but only the hostess would walk away with any presents. The pair of Lauren Tamayo and Brooke Miller did the damage last year for their Northern California based sponsor. And with Katharine Carroll’s solo victory during Saturday's Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital Women's 1/2/3 race, Team TIBCO was set up for a repeat sweep of the women’s professional events.

Like a well disciplined prize fighter, who softens up their opponent before delivering the final knockout blow, Team TIBCO unleashed their array of talents and firepower during Sunday’s national championship race. Amber Rais was first to go off the front. After several laps solo, Rais would eventually be reeled back into the fold.  But, the peloton would barely have enough time to take a breath before the newly crowned USA Cycling Road National Champion, Meredith Miller, quickly countered and went off on solo sojourn of her own.

Each time a gritty and determined Colavita Sutter Home presented by Cooking Light team, unwilling to let their leader ride off quietly into the sunset, and an equally motivated Team Type 1 working for McRae, would respond to pull back the solo TIBCO rider.

Once Miller was caught it looked as if Team TIBCO had ultimately settled in to defend Brooke Miller's title as they assembled en masse at the front of the peloton in what looked like to be a Cavendish-esque lead out train for their leader who one week earlier swept a pair of criterium races in North Carolina.

But one final attack by the day's previous winner, Katharine Carroll, left a disorganized peloton confused once the whole of TIBCO sat up. If not for the efforts of Kelly Benjamin (Colavita Sutter Home presented by Cooking Light) who would expend all her energy to pull back Carroll's move in the final lap, both TIBCO and Katharine Carroll would have their sweep. But Pic and the crowds of people who lined the streets of Downers Grove would get their story book ending.  Riding the barrier out of the infamous turn eight all the way into the finish, Pic would close out her final national criterium championships with one more stars & stripes jersey.

Results
1. Tina Pic (Colavita Sutter Home presented by Cooking Light)
2. Brooke Miller (Team TIBCO)
3. Shelley Olds ( PROMAN Hit Squad)
4. Jennifer McRae (Team Type 1)
5. Theresa Cliff-Ryan (Verducci Breakaway Racing)

For more photos from the women's race, visit our Image Gallery

Photos: © Leonard Basobas

By Imelda March

Turin Bicycle of Evanston, IL had announced that Team TIBCO was going to be in town signing posters and mingling with shoppers on the eve of the National Criterium Championship weekend, as a result, I decided it was time to go "rub shoulders" with these “Super Women.”  Perhaps hanging around them would prompt one of them to share the “family secrets” or hand over the Team TIBCO racing potion.  I figured a little “Miller Time” was just what the doctor ordered ahead of my own race, the Women 3/4 on Saturday, August 15.

So I quickly went into “Larry King” mode, probing and probing with questions of their training.  But something was missing.  Maybe it was something simpler, like what they diet on or even some secret food.

After mingling at the shop with (left to right) Brooke Miller, Lauren Tamayo, Meredith Miller, Katharine Carroll, and Amber Rais it was time to head up to their host home in Glenview, IL where a great dinner awaited. I told myself, whatever they eat I am eating too! We were welcomed by the host Cathy Corbett who whipped up a spread of baked salmon, baked chicken, asparagus, grilled sweet peppers, dinner rolls, baked pasta dish, toss salad and lots of wine to wash things down.

What exactly is a Team Kenda rider doing mingling with Team TIBCO? I was there hoping for some “Miller Time,” which I got, but I was also eager to witness whether something would ooze out of them and instantly affix itself onto me ahead of this weekend's races.

But after the countless questions and all the observation, Team TIBCO turned out to be a group of regular women, albeit with massive engines, who eat normal things just like I do.  There was no super secret eating habits that I needed to pick up to be able to “fire up the after burners” and "steam roll" through the peloton just like these women.

In speaking with Linda Jackson via telephone she emphasized that the girls were here to win. This can only mean two things: 1) the race will be fast and furious, 2) trouble for the women's professional peloton.

About the writer: Imelda March is a Midwest Regional Rider who races for Team Kenda and holds a Category 3 USA Cycling license. To learn about Team Kenda visit www.teamkenda.com

By Amber Rais

Sport is about human performance, not female or male performance, so in a lot of ways, cycling allows us to ignore our gender differences, sometimes to the point where we women are actually mistaken for men when dressed in our spandex, helmets and sunglasses. For all of our similarities, though, men and women are different. We all struggle to find just the right helmet that fits our style, but most guys have probably never had to grapple with how to fit a ponytail through the helmet straps.

Clearly, women face some different challenges, and if you’re new to the sport, you’ll probably appreciate some friendly female advice. I’ve been bike racing for more than four years now, and have learned a lot through trial and error, so I’d like to share a few of the things I’ve learned to save you the trouble. After all, making a rookie mistake is like having food stuck in your teeth: how are you supposed to do anything about it if no one tells you?

Hopefully these tips will help you avoid such situations, but please, take these tips with a grain of salt. I am not a mechanic, doctor, or fashion expert. I simply offer some suggestions from my own experience.

1. The Rookie Mark.

It’s been a few days since you’ve wiped down your chain, and while standing at a stoplight, you accidentally leave a grease mark on your leg from the chainring. You’ve just branded yourself as a Rookie. You can avoid the Rookie Mark by a) keeping a clean chain, b) avoiding contact with your drive train, or c) wiping off the Rookie Mark.

2. The Chamois.

The chamois is the most bizarre item in my wardrobe. It’s glorified underwear – a giant pad sewn into spandex shorts, which in any other context would be a fashion pariah, not to be touched with a ten foot pole, let alone contributing to the balance on your credit card. Yet, as a cyclist, I wear my chamois more often than my favorite jeans. That may say more about me than about the chamois, but my point is that the chamois is important, and deserving of an entire point unto itself.

First and foremost, all chamois are not created equally. Find a good one. The bigger the chamois, the more chafing you’ll have: no bueno. On the other hand, too thin or small, and the chamois won’t do its job. Find one that fits you. Aside from size, look for flat, smooth seams around the chamois, because poor stitching will really cause you problems down the road. Invest in a good quality chamois from the start. You’ll thank me later.

Second, wear the chamois as it is intended – with NO UNDERWEAR. I know, I know. To many of you just starting in the sport, this sounds awful and very unladylike. Well, pantylines aren’t ladylike, and neither is the discomfort and ridicule you will endure if you don’t heed this point. Trust me. That road leads only to pain and suffering.

Lastly, the chamois is a single-use item. Once you’ve worn your chamois for a ride, it goes straight to the wash. Never, ever EVER wear a dirty chamois. And as a corollary to this point, minimize your time in the chamois. We joke that “chamois time is training time,” but the fact is that once you’ve finished your ride, you should get out of the chamois and into dry clothes as quickly as possible. This is much more than an issue of style and taste: it is an issue of health. We’ll leave it at that.

3. Chamois Cream.

If you do experience chamois chafing, chamois cream can help. With the many formulas available, you’ll have to find the one that works for you. If you have a choice, buy the tube, not the tub. If you have the tub, for goodness sake, no double-dipping!

4. Know how to change a tube (even if you let the boys do it for you sometimes).

While I am perfectly capable of changing my own tube, I admit that I am not very quick in the process. It takes me a while to get the tire off the rim, and my cyclists’ arms don’t help much in terms of pumping up the new tube very quickly. I am therefore quite thankful when someone offers to change the tube or pump the new one (most often, it’s my fiancé doing the job for me). While it is perfectly acceptable to accept the help of someone more skilled than you, it is imperative that you know how to change a tube yourself. After all, self-reliance is a pillar of womanhood.

Have someone show you how to properly change a tube, step by step (the mechanics at your local shop would be a good, friendly resource). Then, set aside some time to practice a few times in your garage. You don’t want to be “practicing” by the side of the road when you only have 10 minutes left in your lunch hour to get back to work, showered and changed.

Always ride prepared. You cannot count on using your feminine wiles to flag down a motorist or other cyclist for help. Pack a saddle bag with the following items, at a minimum: 2 tire levers (helpful for those of us without gorilla hands), 1 extra tube, a pump (or CO2 cartridges), and a small multi-tool.

Be prepared, hope for the best, and if a kind young gentleman offers to help you change your flat, by all means, enjoy the flattery.

5. Know your equipment.

You should be familiar enough with the basics of your equipment to be able to maintain your bike on a daily basis and to at least diagnose major problems before they ruin a ride. Know how to: 1, check if a tire is safe (not too worn or cut); 2, use the barrel adjuster on your rear derailleur and brakes; 3, properly lube and wipe down your chain; 4, check for a worn chain; 5, pump your tires to a proper pressure; and 6, change a flat. Your local bike shop can offer instruction on each point.

6. The Tan Line.

Everyone knows the cyclist’s tan, and if you ride with any frequency, it is inevitable. Some embrace and emphasize the tan line as symbol of dedication, while others don’t give a hoot one way or another; it’s a matter of personal style. If you’re like me, however, you may not want to look like you accessorize your bikini with a white undershirt and shorts. Here are a few tips to minimize the tan line.

First, train in a sleeveless jersey when possible. Only do this on hot days when you’re not tempted to wear armwarmers (never ever wear armwarmers with a sleeveless jersey - ever). When wearing a regular short-sleeved jersey, apply an inch or so of sunscreen around the sleeve at the hem. Do the same around your thigh at the hem of your shorts. You can also roll the sleeves and hem of your shorts to achieve the same effect. This will help fade the contrast of the tan line. *

Finally, make time to sun a bit in your bikini. This will even out the tanlines, and boost your body’s production of Vitamin D, which, as some studies have shown, can help your athletic performance. Of course, we all walk a fine line between sun damage and Vitamin D production, so be smart about wearing sunscreen and managing your time in the sun. We’ve all seen the enviously tanned and toned legs of Mr. Basso, but I doubt he’s worried about sporting age spots before the age of 40.

* Check with your sponsors: you may not want to banish a major sponsor’s logo to the oblivion of a rolled hem!

7. Look Good. Feel Good.

Get a manicure or a pedicure every now and then. If you don’t do nails, treat yourself to a nice haircut, some snazzy new earrings or a facial. You work hard, so take care of yourself.

Remember: If you look good, you’ll feel good. When you feel good, you perform well.

8. Ride Etiquette.

Every cyclist makes an impression on motorists and other cyclists, so your actions contribute to how people view women on bikes. There are many things one can do to contribute to a positive impression, aside from (obviously) looking so good in spandex.

Here are some simple etiquette rules that if followed, will ensure that you will make a reasonably good impression (as a cyclist, that is – you’re on your own when it comes to personality).

First rule of thumb is simple: do not make any sudden moves. This means do not brake suddenly (instead coast, use the wind or feather your brakes lightly to slow down if needed); do not suddenly move laterally (if you need to move laterally, plan ahead, do so gradually, and if possible give an indication to the rider behind you before you move; otherwise, hold your line and follow the line of the riders around you). Pointing out obstacles in the road to riders behind you also helps avoid sudden movements in the group and is considered common courtesy. Generally, be as predictable as possible in your actions. This ensures your safety, the safety of others and will be appreciated by all around you (cyclists and motorists alike).

If you have trouble riding close to others and using the draft, partner with someone whose wheel you trust. Follow his or her wheel for a whole ride to get a feel for how to move around in the group. Follow the wheel, but don’t stare at it. Keep looking ahead to anticipate obstacles or changes in direction, and be aware of those around you. You’ll soon have the hang of it.

If you know how to use the draft and are comfortable in a paceline, for goodness sake take a pull at the front. No one likes a wheelsuck. (If you’re not there yet, let others around you know that you’re working to get the hang of it.)

Remember, if you’re following the rules of the road, holding your line and riding safely, anyone who yells at you is a jerkface, and should be ignored. If you’re really questioning your riding behavior, ask a cyclist you trust. Under no circumstances should you let a jerkface ruin your ride.

9. Scars.

If you ride and race long enough, you will eventually crash, and while they say that chicks dig scars, we generally don’t dig them on ourselves. You’ll want to treat your road rash properly to minimize scarring.

Step 1: Scrub until you scream. This will probably be more painful than the crash itself, but it must be done. Use soap, and if you can stand it, a washcloth or loofa. Get all of the crap out. All of it. Take as much time as you need, and probably some Advil.

Step 2: Once all that is left is pink skin, seal the road rash under a big piece of Tegaderm. Don’t apply ointment or anything between the wound and the Tegaderm, just make sure the wound is sealed beneath.

Step 3: Keep the Tegaderm on for 2 weeks (yes – in your sleep, in and out of the shower, on rides, everywhere). Your road rash will ooze, will turn nasty green colors and will start to smell bad. Don’t panic: these are your own cooties, and you have to let your cooties do their job. (That said, swelling is a sign of infection, so if the area turns red and puffy, get to a doctor. Smelly and green is fine; swollen and red is not.)

Step 4: Once the Tegaderm is off, and you have a nice healthy pink scar, keep the scar moistened with a Vitamin E ointment. Palmers Cocoa Butter with Vitamin E works very well. And never, ever expose the scar to sun without some heavy-duty sunblock slathered over it. With good care, your scars will fade in time. Until then, feel free to embellish the story of how it happened. A little humor goes a long way in the healing process.

10. SUNSCREEN SUNSCREEN SUNSCREEN!

Wear it and reapply it. You don’t want to be mistaken for a pedaling piece of beef jerky before the age of 40, and you certainly don’t want a battle with skin cancer. The face in the mirror will thank you for those few minutes you spend each day applying the stuff.

Photos: © Leonard Basobas