2012 Race Pic Links

Below is a collection of race pic, video, and race report links.  I will try to keep this updated in the next couple of days.  Enjoy!

Mike Dawson Galleries:
Men Cat 4 AND Women Cat 4;
Men Cat 3;
Juniors;
Women 1/2/3;
Men 1/2/3;
Extra Specials;


Shutlery's Cat 3 Men's Race Gallery


Dennis Fickinger's 1st Gallery

Dennis Fickinger's 2nd Gallery

Dan Singer's Gallery

Also, for the racers, I'm working to return all the equipment lent us by our generous sponsors, then I'll be posting results.  Not going to make promises at the moment but I would like to have it up before the next race weekend.

Thanks again for racing and spectating Saturday!  You made the event a success!

Veldri-wha? (A brief spectator guide.)

What is going to happen in the park on Saturday?

A series of bicycle races. But not just any race, one that includes barriers (think short hurdles), sand, hills, pavement, stairs, grass, and maybe even mud. Races are run rain or shine. The sport is called cyclocross, while the event is Veldrijden Columbia. 

What's with the name?

"Veldrijden" is the Flemmish/Dutch word for cyclocross, or field racing.  Veldrijden is the "NASCAR" of Belgium.

How does one ride all that?!

It takes a lot of practice!  Some of the features are easier to run than ride, so racers will dismount, carry thier bikes, run through a section, then remount and continue pedaling.  The beginners make it look difficult, while the top area amateurs are fast and make it look easy.  Races last from 30 to 60 minutes.

How should I spectate?

Come in weather appropriate attire and find a "good spot" on the course.  The best way to find a "good spot" is to walk along the course (NOT INSIDE THE TAPE!!) and get a sense for what the racers see each lap.  Next to a sand pit, barriers, tight turns, or on a steep hill all provide good viewing.  Generally the racers will be going slower through such areas and you can see them dig deep to clear those sections quickly. 

Feel free to bring along a cowbell, vuvuzela, or noisemaker to cheer on the racers.  Cheering the racers is part of what makes cyclocross a festive event. You may want to try your hand at heckling.

I should heckle the racers?

Yes, but in a good natured way.  If you can say something clever, perhaps a bit cutting, but also motivating, then you're doing it right.  This is a family friendly event, so keep that in mind.

If you'd rather just scream "GO GO GO!", that's ok too! 

What time should I get there?

The first race starts at 10:00am and is the novice class, these are first year male cyclocrossers.  The schedule progresses during the day to the fastest women at 1:30 and the fastest men at 2:35.

What is the purpose of all this?

Cyclocross racing is great exercise, lots of fun, and proceeds from the event benefit the local Helmets First charity.

The 2011 Elite Amateur Men's Podium.

Sponsors + Pics!!

Hey Race Fans,

Not only did we release the flyer today, but we are also announcing some great sponsors!

Returning for year two is Gateway Harley-Davidson!  Purveyors of two-wheeled fun, they support several cycling events in the StL region, as well as a team which puts the hurt on the roadies.  Check them out!

 

Also back this year is Enzo's Cycling Products, makers of the Buttonhole Chamois Cream and a full range of embrocations.  I do not ride without this stuff.  Two years on the chamois cream and ZERO saddle sores.  As the temps drop, and we race in rain/mud/whatever, you'll want their Embro Stick and Oil Stick on hand, too! 

A new sponsor this year is Columbia Bicycle Center in Columbia, IL.  A Cannondale dealer, they will be providing gift certificates for our Men's Cat 3 field!!  They also carry Scott, Raleigh, and accessories.

Last, but certainly not least, we welcome back Dan Singer Photography to capture the action on race day!

Za Flyer!

A quick image of the approved flyer!  You can also check it out here.

Thanks again to our sponsors (with more on the way) and Jamie Banks-George who did the killer design!

2012 Race Planning

Hello Cyclocross Fans!

The last year has flown by!  Here are a few quick items regarding the 2011 edition of the race.

• About 40 racers came out to the inaugural Veldrijden Columbia.
• Good times were had by all.
• A small donation to Helmets First was made from the race - thanks to the racers, volunteers, and sponsors for making that possible!
• The City of Columbia has been enthusiastic to see the event come back for a second year.

For 2012 I've decided NOT to start promoting the event 3 weeks prior to the date!  We have several exciting things in the works this year to be revealed soon as CX season is nearly upon us.

For now you'll have to be content with the work in progress looks of the blog but we've got some serious local firepower behind the flyer and poster layout.  We can't wait for cyclocross!  We hope you can join us!

Event Wrap-Up Coming Soon!

Race Fans,

I'll post a race wrap-up soon, but here is a video one of my teammates put together of the Men's Elite Race.  Also, photographers Dan Singer (race photos here) and Mike Dawson (race photos here) have shared some of their excellent work with us.

Hope this tides you over till I can do a proper wrap-up. 

In a few short hours...

We'll be racing at Veldrijden Columbia.

If you're checking this before you depart, here are some things to keep in mind:

*We are guests in the park. Please help me keep it awesome (it will go a long way towards using it next year.)

*Race your guts out. I hope you guys come out guns blazing and enjoy the last local CX race of the season.

*Bring some water. Mokka and a grocery are a 5 min walk, but there are limited drinking fountains.
*Please consider supporting our sponsors. Gateway Harley-Davidson, Mesa Cycles, Psimet Custom Wheels, Enzo's Cycling Products, Mokka Kaffeehaus, Big Shark Bike Co., and Thai House restaurant!

*By coming and racing, you are helping area kids through Helmets First!

I look forward to seeing everyone tomorrow! Best of luck!

Frenchy