Handcycling News

The Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana hosted the handcycling races at the Indiana Stage Race last weekend and the event, as well as the racing, was first class all the way.

Standouts in the C1 category were David Randall and Brian Mitchell, who have been duking it out all season long, and both appear to have the talent to race internationally in the not-so-distant future. In the HCB Category, John Gilger (aka JSG) was the top guy all weekend and is making a late season comeback after a broken leg put him on the sidelines earlier in the season.

In the HCA race, newcomer Thomas Kahler won the all three races in close competition with crafty veteran, James Watson, and it was great to hear of exciting racing in all categories at the event.

The Indiana Stage race hosted handcycling for the 2nd year and the growth of the event signifies the success of the U.S. Handcycling series. The event featured just 5 athletes in 2006 and grew to 14 for 2007. Many athletes competed in other U.S. Handcycling series events earlier in the season, and the racing scene is growing thanks to organizations like the Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana.

For more information, and full results from the Indiana Stage race, please VISIT THE EVENT WEBSITE.

South African Ernst Van Dyk traveled to Florida in late July following his 2nd-placed finish to Alejandro Albor at the Sadler’s Ultra Challenge. Van Dyk spent four days working with his sponsor, Invacare Top End product designer, Chris Peterson, on a top secret handcycle to give him the best chance possible at the World Championships August 24-26 in Bordeaux, France. The trip ended-up being well worth it as Van Dyk pulled off a rare, back-to-back victory by winning Sunday’s road race in a thrilling sprint in Bordeaux…just two days after winning the time trial by a huge margin. This puts Van Dyk in elite company with Hans Mayrhoeffer and Scott McNeice as one of three World Champions to win both the road race and time trial in the same year.

McNeice, also an Invacare-sponsored athlete, was the first World Handcycling Champion in 1998 where he dominated the event in Colorado Springs. He has attempted somehwat of a comeback this year, and rode very well in Bordeaux….finishing 8th in both the time trial and road race, ~ 1:30 back from the winner in both races. His U.S. teammate, Alejandro Albor was the favorite at this year’s worlds coming off of his victory at the Sadler’s Ultra Challenge. Van Dyk however, focused specifically on the shorter distances for the World Championships and has incredible finishing power on his new bike, leaving Albor to sprint for the bronze. Also in the mix in the final sprint was American Oz Sanchez. Sanchez has steadily improved at every race since he began competing seriously in 2005. Bordeaux showcased his potential, and Sanchez came in a very respectable 5th in the road race, :02 behind Spanish sensation, Vicente Arzo.

The HCB race on Sunday was as nuclear as ever, and featured Americans Matt Updike and [Friday’s bronze medallist] David Lee, as well as Todd Richardson who finally made the start line after being ill all week. Lee couldn’t hang with the furious pace set by the front group on the rolling course and was dropped midway through the event. Richardson’s woes continued when he broke a footrest and had to abandon. So it was left to Updike to fight it out for a medal in the large field sprint. “The Europeans race very tough, and I ended-up getting squeezed to the side in the final 200m and had to get around a bunch of slower guys….I was a little disappointed” said Updike following the race. He ended-up 10th overall.

After a wild weekend of racing that saw pure dominance from Van Dyk, three medals from the American Team, the new format of running the World Championsips every year seems to be creating a great deal of excitement for the sport, and the Americans also showed that they are a force to be reckoned with.

There are some great photos from the event on Christian Kolb’s website, HERE.

And full results can be found HERE.

The Tour de London, a USA Cycling and U.S. Handcycling race in London, KY will take place September 8th and 9th. The event will feature a road race and a criterium, and is promoted by 2Wheel Sports, based in the midwest.

$1,000 in prize money is offered to handcyclists and the promoters are big supporters of handcycling events…..for more information and to register, please visi the EVENT WEBSITE.

Lat month, South African Ernst Van Dyk showed up in Alaska to challenge Alejandro Albor at the toughest race in the world. Although Albor got the better of him up North, there were signs of a not-so-far-away form in Van Dyk, who ended up winning 4 stages, including the final time trial. Van Dyk does not exclusively focus on handcycling, but since the race in Alaska he has put in some quality training in a brand new custom bike made by Chris Peterson at Invacare. It all paid off today, as Van Dyk blasted the hilly, 10 kilometer time trial course at the Worrld Championships in Bordeaux, France averaging 24+mph in the process. He beat his closest rival, 2nd-placed “yank” Alejandro Albor by almost 30 seconds, which is a big margin in a short, 10k time trial. This is Van Dyk’s first world title for cycling, and it looks like his form is good for Sunday’s 50 kilometer road race. Find out more about Ernst through his website.

Albor — the favorite headed in to today’s race — still managed a respectable silver medal with a time of 15:50. It’s never a bad thing to wind up your worst day in the last 12 months with a silver medal. The surprise of the day was Albor’s HCB teammate, David Lee. Lee squeaked out a bronze medal at his first-ever international competition. The U.S. hope for an HCB medal was Matt Updike, who had a “not-so-good” day today, so it’s good to see that Lee - not known at all for his time trialling abilitiy - was able to pick-up his teammate and grab some hardware….great ride David!

All things considered, the U.S. guys had a pretty good showing today, with Oz Sanchez pulling out a 6th-place — his highest international finish to date — just in front of teammate Scott McNeice, who finished 8th, showing some of his best form in years. Todd Richardson is still battling a virus and was not able to race today’s time trial.

It is noteworthy that Updike is indeed showing great form this season, and that his luck is due for a change: he had a flat tire today and has had many mechanical problems and/or crashes at international races in the last two seasons. With Updike back on track, Richardson healthy, and three fast HCC racers in the form of Albor, McNeice and Sanchez, there is a possibility that we’ll see a lot of stars ‘n stripes on the podium on Sunday.

And don’t forget…Albor won the road race at last year’s Worlds in the *POURING* rain…and it is forecast for rain again on Sunday….hmmmmmm.

Stay tuned…

Full results are posted HERE

This weekend’s slate of handcycle racing is jam-packed, and includes everything from the World Championships to off-road racing.

The U.S. Paralympics Cycling Team is currently in Bordeaux, France and raced in the opening time trial this morning and will square off in a road race on Sunday. Things are looking up for the team, so stay tuned to HCNews to see how they do.

The Indiana Stage Race, prsented by the Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana, has a great field of ~ 15 at this year’s event and is quickly becoming a mainstay in the U.S. Handcycling Series. Names we’ve seen all season long: Mike Sprouse, David Randall, Brian Mitchell are just a few of the top racers who wll be on hand in Indianapolis for 3 stages of tough racing.

Finally, the return of the Off-Road Handcycling Championships to Crested Butte, CO where One Off handcycles will tackle dirt, mud, rocks and logs in a hill climb, trials, and cross country events. Defending champion Seth Arseneau is back, but also on hand this year is Greg Hockensmith, fresh off of his successful climb up Mt. Fuji. Hockensmith will challenge Arseneau as well as other favorites, Steve Ackerman and Drew Wills who performed well in 2006. Also keep your eyes open for newcomers Steve Garro and Keegan Riley, and watch for Sherry Schulz as she flies the flag as the only woman in the event.

Keep your eyes turned to HCNews on ushandcycling.org for all the latest news!

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Five American handcyclists are in Bordeaux, France this week, racing at the UCI Para-Cycling World Championships (formerly known as the IPC World Disabled Cycling Championships). The team includes Alejandro Albor of Elk Grove, CA (defending his 2007 win in the road race), Oz Sanchez of San Diego, CA (looking for a good result in his second international event), Matt Updike of Denver, CO (on his best form since 2002), David Lee of Cardiff, CA, and Todd Richardson of Raleigh, NC. Both Lee and Richardson are competing internationally for the first time.

Word from Richardson early Thursday was that he has come down with a bug and is “iffy” at best to start Friday’s Time Trial. Albor is the man to beat tomorrow, and he has plenty to prove after not being allowed to start in the 2006 time trial due to an equipment regulation. Thanks to the great racing all season long at various U.S. Handcycling events (the Rocky Mountain Omnium and Sadler’s Ultra Challenge to mention a few), the boys have had a chance to race together….ALOT. This should help with team tactics Sunday’s road race, particularly on the home turf of the crafty Europeans.

Look for Updike to “open a can” in the time trial, and it should be interesting to see where Lee pops up mashing that big ol’ gear of his. If Richardson is healthy for Sunday’s race, he and Lee could get Updike in the mix for a victory, and Sanchez thrives on mixing it up in the pack….of course if it rains (rain is indeed forecasted off and on all weekend), Albor will look to sneak away and avoid danger just as he did in 2006.

Check back **HERE** regularly for updates, or visit the OFFICIAL EVENT WEBSITE.

Get ready for the upcoming Dam2Dam ride in Wenatchee, Washington….a great event for a great cause! See the official press release below, or VISIT THE EVENT WEBSITE HERE
——————————–
Media Contact Information:
Dani Utley,
Mike Utley Foundation
1-800-294-4683
utley60@aol.com

2007 DAM2DAM “Thumbs Up!” Bike Tour
Benefiting the Mike Utley Foundation

The 2007 DAM2DAM “Thumbs Up!” Bike Tour will be held on Saturday, September 29th at Lincoln Rock State Park in East Wenatchee, Washington. The event will offer riders three options, a 25, 50 or a 100-mile route along the beautiful Columbia River. We welcome all road, mountain, tandem, recumbent and handcycle riders to join us!

Cost of registration is $75.00 per rider and will include a Tyvek jacket, refreshments at rest stops, and a goodie bag at check-in, the event will conclude with a Bikers BBQ. Prizes will be awarded to riders raising the top donations in their category to benefit the Mike Utley Foundation.

Utley, the former Detroit Lion’s offensive guard, was paralyzed on November 17, 1991 during an NFL game against the Los Angeles Rams. The Mike Utley Foundation was established in January 1992 to raise funding for research, rehabilitation and education for Spinal Cord Injuries (SCI). The mission of the Mike Utley Foundation is to financially support an effective function-restoring treatment for SCI, to encourage through education that of adopting a rehabilitative lifestyle, and to create a public awareness of spinal cord injuries.

Wells Fargo is proud to be the Presenting Sponsor for the 2007 DAM2DAM “Thumbs Up!” Bike Tour. Additional supporting sponsors for this event are Coca-Cola Bottling Company, Wal*Mart and the Seattle Seahawks.

Registration is at 7:00 A.M. at the Lincoln Rock State Park in East Wenatchee or you can register online at www.mikeutley.org. For additional information log on to our website or call 1-800-294-4683.

FIN: 86-0705789

It’s always good to know that our handcycling community is filled with some awesome people! If you visit our website somewhat regularly, you’re likely aware of the Warren Strickland Memorial fund and of how popular Warren was. Well, the impact he had is still felt, and is exemplified by a new tribute video from a friend and competitor, as well as by the efforts of a great guy from a great family…

Dan Glatz is from Chugiak, Alaska. He has grown up volunteering for the Sadler’s Ultra Challenge. He was part of Warren’s crew in 2003. As a way to honor Warren, Dan will raising funds to honor the fallen racer, and the funds raised will provide a scholarship to bring a racer to Alaska in 2008. Mr. Glatz and his family have long been an integral part of the Sadler’s Ultra Challenge: The entire family volunteers for the event and they donate the use of their 40 foot trailer every year, to haul equipment for the race. Funds raised by Dan Glatz will be tax deductible, and details about about it (and how to donate) can be found HERE.

Also on hand at the 2003 Sadler’s Ultra Challenge, was multi-time national champion, Michel Bond. Bond had his video camera that year, and made a short documentary about the race. Upon hearing about Mr. Glatz’ efforts to raise money honoring Warren, Michel uncovered the archive of B-roll footage from the 2003 event, and put up a great tribute to Warren on YouTube. I don’t know about the rest of you who knew Warren, but it gives me chills. Awesome. — Ian Lawless

Are you getting tired of the heat ? Well, the end of the mid-summer heat wave is just around the corner, and U.S. Handcycling has some awesome new things on the calendar. There is still plenty of great riding and racing left, so now’s the time for you second wind…the weather is getting cooler — and so are you! Check out these great events:

Off-Road Handcycling Championships - Crested Butte, CO Aug 25 - 26
The ONLY off-road race in the world….if you missed last year….don’t miss it again! AWESOME!

Indiana Stage Race - Indianapolis, IN Aug 25-26
Can’t make it to Crested Butte ? ARe you a true “roadie” ? Don’t miss this 2nd year race in Indiana!

**NEW*** - The U.S. Handcycling Series Finale! September 27, Las Vegas
What better way to end your season than in Sin City. We JUST secured this race, and it will be a big deal, in conjunction with Interbike - the world’s largest cycling trade show - and televised on the new World Championship Sports Network.

Dam2Dam Thumbs Up! Bike Tour - September 29, Wenatchee, WA
Benefitting the Mike Utley Foundation for spinal cord research, this is one of the BIGGEST handcycle tours there is…a guranteed good time…for a good cause!

The BORP REVOLUTION - October 5-6, Sonoma, CA
Another unbelievable bike tour featuring an integrated group ride through the wine country of California. This event is FIRST CLASS and raises money for BORP’s many great programs!

There have been some major changes and additions to the U.S. Handcycling Calendar for the late summer / Fall season. There’s still plenty of great riding ahead!

The Giro di San Francisco will NOT include a handcycling race this year as originally posted. However, if you live in the Bay area and want to get your groove on….check out the BORP REVOLUTION.

Also, don’t forget about the upcoming INDIANA STAGE RACE, a U.S. Handcycling Series Race in Indianapolis.

Finally, there is NEW event, the U.S. Handcycling Series Finale in Las Vegas!

All of the changes can be found via our event calednar page, at: events.ushandcycling.org

2002 World Time Trial Champion and 2004 Parlaympian, Greg Hockensmith, became the fastest paraplegic to top Mount Fuji yesterday, in a custom-built 4-wheeled handcycle made by One Off Handcycles. Hockensmith was more than 80 hours quicker than the last summit.

Hockensmith summited the 12,388 foot peak with a team of 8 others on Tuesday. The team took 13 hours, 48 minutes to reach the summit and experienced relatively good weather on thei trek. “It was about one of the hardest things I have ever done, we all worked very hard.” said Hockensmith following his accomplishment.”Pretty mind blowing stuff up there in the thin air, I won’t ever forget it.”

Hockensmith’s endeavor took months to plan, and Mt. Fuji was selected specifically for it’s location in Japan and its proximity to the town of Kusatsu…where the mayor received “The Mayor’s Global Alliance for Community Awareness” award. Hockensmith visited the town shortly after his accomplishment in order to participate in a special ceremony that exemplifies why Japan was selected as the first Global Wellness Alliance Partner.

Greg’s trip, dubbed “Reaching the summit without limits” was sponsored by the Perimeter Bicycling Association and the Global Sports Alliance , who helped the 34-year old Hockensmith in his effort to create inspiration and awareness of physical and mental wellness with this undertaking. Both organizations promote global health, fitness, and a clean environment specifically through cycling and all other forms of sport and physical activity. The trip was also largely subsidized by Pierson Construction under the direction of Rich Pierson, who is renowned for his vigorous support of athletes and athletic events all over the world.

Mount Fuji, or Fujiyama, is the highest mountain in Japan. A dormant volcano volcano” that last erupted in 1708, it straddles the boundary of Shozuoka and Yamanashi prefectures just west of Tokyo, from which it can be seen on a clear day. Mount Fuji’s exceptionally symmetrical cone is a well-known symbol of Japan and is frequently depicted in art and photographs, as well as visited by sightseers and climbers.

The local proverb states: ‘He who climbs Mount Fuji once is a wise man, he who climbs it twice is a fool.’
We expect this will be Greg’s first — AND last — trip up Mt. Fuji.

For more information, please visit Greg’s website: www.handcyclist.com

Alejandro Albor (Elk Grove, CA) finally grabbed an elusive fifth victory last week at the toughest race in the world, the Sadler’s Ultra Challenge in Alaska. Albor joins Monica Bascio as one of the only two 5-time winners. First tackling the race in 2000, Albor is a mainstay at the event, and his victory this year was a convincing one, on the heels of his World Championship title last Fall in Aigle, Switzerland.

The 40 year old American certainly had something to prove at this year’s race, which was a rematch with South African, Ernst Van Dyk, who bested the American by less than 5 minutes in 2005. This year, the American left little to chance in the hills on stages one and two, as well as the new time trial in Denali Park. To his credit, Van Dyk managed to win 4 stages and was without question the most aggressive rider. Albor’s strategy was a bit different, as he often utilized his friend and confidant, Oz Sanchez (San Diego, CA) to chase down attacks from the South African. The notorious stage 2 from Nenana to Healy showcased Albor’s fitness and preparedness when he broke away from Sanchez and Van Dyk with 6 miles left in the stage, and demoralized his competitors over the final, hilly section to win the day by more than 6 minutes. The next morning’s 6 mile time trial in Denali National Park saw him add another 2 minutes to his overall lead, and he cruised from there, using Sanchez to control all attacks and not concern himself with stage wins.

This year’s race also featured great racing the HCB category, with American David Lee (Cardiff by the Sea, CA) showing great form and besting former champion, Peer Bartels of Leer, Germany (Condor Airlines) by an impressive 42 minutes. Lee, a hopeful for the 2008 U.S. Paralympic Cyling Team, is turning heads this season and his win in Alaska will certainly catch the eye of U.S. Paralympics.

In the women’s race, Sherry Schulz (formerly Sherry Ramsey) finally grabbed an elusive victory after finishing 2nd in the race four times previously. Schulz was considered the favorite heading in to this year’s race, but there was some degree of uncertainty with newcomer Maria Morales Avila of Mexico, and Katja Luke of Germany who competed last year. Schulz had never raced against either competitor, and — as is the trend all over the world — average speeds for women’s handcycling races have steadily increased over the last few years. Schulz left nothing to chance as she prepared diligently in the month’s leading up to the event training in the high altitude hills near her home in Colorado.

Once the racing begain, Luke grabbed the early lead in the Anchorage prologue over 2nd-placed Schulz who was groggy from a late night arrival the previous evening. The next morning’s difficult stage one however saw Luke experience drivetrain problems just 2 miles in to the race. Although nobody clocked the time spent working on her handcycle, it was a bad way to start the race. Schulz’s final margin over Luke was just 28 minutes at week’s end. Would it have been closer had the German not had mechanical issues ? Maybe….although showing up with a bike in good working order is part of what makes a champion. Schulz was solid all week long and rode hard to extend her margin and secure her victory upon the return to Anchorage. Morales Avila meanwhile, showed she has some “skills on the hills”, finishing ahead of Luke in to Nenana and just 18 minutes behind Schulz on the stage…a solid effort for the only rookie in the women’s race. It was good to see some great women’s racing for the second year in a row, and also good to know that Schulz finally has that elusive 1st-placed gold pan on her mantle!

New this year, was an HCC1 category, designed to recognize the “non-kneeling” athletes not classified as HCB. The category was very competitive, with Scott Davidson (Harrison Township, MI) taking the overall win in front of his friend Joe Dowling of Old Greenwich, CT. Both Davidson and Dowling just returned from London where they represented U.S. Handcycling at races associated with the Tour de France kickoff in the UK.

Paul Nunnari of Australia turned in yet another dominating performance in the wheelchair category, besting many handcylists in the process, as well as finishing atop a field of 5 wheelchairs, the largest in 10 years.

Another big plus for this year’s race, was the inclusion of six Alaskan racers, all of whom had great results. The winner of the “Speedy Sourdough” or “Fastest Alaskan” prize was Mark Hufford, who has returned after a few years off from illness and injury, to prove that he is a racer to be reckoned with…and not just in Alaska. Huffored will likely compete at some races in the lower 48 next season in the HCB class. Edwin Jones of Anchorage put in an impressive ride as well, competing for the first time in a handcycle (he had previously competed in a wheelchair) and finishing 3rd in the HCC1 class. Meanwhile, Brant Schalk of Fairbanks and Rick Gilliland of Kenai came out of nowhere to showcase some great fitness and represent for their home state. Finally, Larry Coutermarsh of North Pole, AK proved he could do the race for a 23rd time with plenty of style.

Full results can be found HERE, and check back soon on this post for some photos.

This year’s Sadler’s Ultra Challenge has  been blessed with the best weather ever….no rain, and only light wind….even tailwinds. Some of the veterans at the event shake their heads as the many newcomers comment that the race is difficult, although not as hard as they thought….”you should have been in Healy last year” commented Scott Davidson to one of the first time racers.

Wednesday mornings’ stage 3 was a new stage, a time trial inside Denali National Park. This is the first time the race has gone through the park since the “new era” of the event that began in 1999 with the inclusion of handcycles. The park did not disappoint as spectular scenery and wildwife were plentiful, and the slightly uphill time trial on beautiful pavement saw some great racing, and even took some racer’s minds off of the pain. “I realized this was a once in a lifetime experience, so I just took it easy and let all of my surroundings soak in.” said first-time racer Mike Sprouse of Rome, GA. Veteran racer, Joe Dowling, not only took in the scenery, but was inspired by it…winning his first-ever stage in the HCC1 category by 10 seconds in front of overall leader, Scott Davidson. “This is my first-ever stage victory at this race, and it means alot!” said Dowling, packing an official copy of the day’s results in to his bag as a keepsake. Wheelchair division leader, Paul Nunnari, wasn’t taking in much scenery on his way to a blazing fast time of 31:42 over the hilly 6 miles….which is very impressive considering it was the 8th fastest time of all 27 racers, including all handcyclists. Also pulling out a good race, was California’s Geoff Erickson, who snuck in for 2nd place in front of James Lilly and showed off a bit of prowess in the shorter-distance stages.
Wednesday’s double feature saw a 28-mile road race in the afternoon, and South Africa’s Ernst Van Dyke (Invacare) seized the opportunity for a stage victory. “I have only been training on my handcycle 50k maximum, so this was the perfect chance for a win!” said Van Dyk following the stage. It was a good way to save face after Van Dyk was completely shelled by Alejandro Albor over the final 6 miles of the previous day’s stage in to Nenana. Albor won by over 6 minutes,  thanks to help from Oz Sanchez. “It was a bit frustrating, as I wasn’t clear that Sanchez would be helping Albor since he [Sanchez] and I both receive support from Invacare.” Apparently, blood is thicker than water. Van Dyk broke away early in the day with a big pull from David Lee at the start, and then dropped Lee to carry a lead of +/- one minute thorough mile 25. In the final three miles however, Albor dropped Sanchez and closed the gap quickly…albeit not quickly enough….as he joined Van Dyk a mere 10 meters before the line, too late for the stage victory, which went to Van Dyk but didn’t change the overall standings much.

Also strong in the afternoon finale were Edwin Figueroa and James Lilly, who raced hard all day and crossed the line together (Figueroa was officially 2nd on the stage, Lilly 3rd). Katja Luke of Germany raced well in the women’s division, bouncing back from fatigue and mechanical problems, winning the stage 20 seconds in front of overall women’s handcycle leader, Sherry Schulz of Littleton, CO. Schulz still holds a 25 minute lead (a narrow lead by women’s handcycle category standards), but is not really in danger of losing it over the final 3 stages, which are too fast for a major breakaway.

Detailed results and more info can be found HERE.

Today’s 2nd stage of the Sadler’s Ultra Challenge showcased the best weather from Nenana to Healy in 5 years. The wind was light, the sun was shining, and the racing did not disappoint as incredible performances were laid down my many of the 27 athletes who competed.

Ernst Van Dyk of South Africa (Team Invacare) was confident at the start after being outsmarted in Stage 1 by Alejandro Albor and Oz Sanchez who dangled him out front before Albor blasted by in the final mile. In contrast, today’s stage saw all three riders together for 45 of the 50 mile stage. Albor, who has raced the Nenana to Healy stage 6 times previously, and knows the road well, played the race perfectly, biding his time for the steep rolling hills in the final 6 miles, where he attacked near the infamous stampede trail, forcing Van Dyk to chase. After the 2nd roller, the South African was gapped and Albor put the hammer down, taking more than a minute every mile to win by over 6 minutes in front of Van Dyk, who managed to stay ahead of Sanchez by a few minutes.

In the wheelchair race, Paul Nunnari expanded his lead to more than 2 hours over 2nd placed James Lilly. Nunnari — regarded as an excellent climber — used the second half of the stage to blast off and glide over the rolling hills and pick off some handcycles on the 1 mile final climb to the finish. Lilly has been racing well in front of Edwin Figueroa and Geoff Erickson, and is a surprise contender for 2nd overall.

The women’s race showcased 4-time finisher, Sherry Schulz, who now leads Katja Luke and Maria Luisa Morales Avila by over 20 minutes. Schulz heads in to Wednesday’s hill climb time trial in a solid position to win overall, although Luke had a much better day after losing almost 20 minutes fixing mechanical issues on Monday. Luke and Morales Avila are evenly matched on flat roads, which will make the stages later in week very interesting.

David Lee maintains a 10 minute lead over Peer Bartels in the HCB race, which makes the HCB category the race to watch, particularly in tomorrow’s hill climb time trial where Bartels can set himself up for the win, or Lee can lose the race.

Scott Davidson of Harrison Township, MI is looking solid in the HCC1 category and continues to ride strongly. His compatriot and U.S. Handcycling teammate, Joe Dowling is just 12 minutes behind, an impress margin for the 67 year old Dowling.

The weather has potential to take a turn tomorrow, with the first ever venture in to Denali National Park, where racers will tackle a 7 mile hill climb time trial, followed by a 28 mile road stage in the afternoon.

Full results from the stage, as well as overall cumulative results can be found HERE.

David Lee (Cardiff by the Sea, CA), Scott Davidson (Harrison Township, MI) and Alejandro Albor (Elk Grove CA) were the top finishers in their respective categories at Saturday’s first-ever prologue time trial opener at the Sadler’s Ultra Challenge in Anchorage, AK. All three Americans won by a few seconds in the 2.25 mi prologue along beautiful Lake Hood amidst float planes and moose.

Alejandro Albor is looking to best his main rival, Ernst Van Dyk of South Africa. Van Dyk won a showdown at the 2005 version of the event and the two will be racing hard all this week in the world’s toughest race. For his efforts, Lee upset German Peer Bartels, who is the odds-on favorite in the HCB race this year. The race continues today with the return of a traditional, hilly stage 1 from Fairbanks to Nenana. Full results from Sunday’s prologue are posted HERE.

Team U.S. Handcycling’s Seth Arseneau (Albuqurque, NM) won today’s U.S. Paralympics and U.S. Handcycling National Road Race Championship on South Table Mountain today in Golden, CO. Today’s win is easily the biggest win in the 25-year-old handcycle racer’s career, and it gives hime two national titles in as many weeks (he won the criterium title in Arlington, VA on June 2nd). He becomes the only man to have beaten current World Champion, Alejandro Albor in more than 18 months, and the success will undoubtedly shine a bright spotlight on him and bring-up many questions about his plans for international competition later this summer. Arseneau has demonstrated that he is the best bike handler in the country by winning some big criteriums this year, and doing it by taking perfect lines in corners and utilizing his strength in the sprints. Today was no exception as he came out of the final turn in perfect position for a sprint and hung-on for the win in front of Albor, Scott McNeice, and Oz Sanchez.

Matt Updike once again asserted himself as the best of the best in a very competitive HCB race, and took a pretty convincing win over David Lee, Greg HOckensmith, and Todd Richardson, respectively. Brian Mitchell worked over the HCC1 field as he has been doing all season and bested Rafael Ibarra and David Randall, while James watson rocked everybody’s world with another 1st placed HCA finish in front of Harold (Leon ) Bostick and Scott Rimmer.

WE will indeed put up a more detailed story, photos and results just as soon as we can…sit tight! Full Results are now posted HERE.

Friday’s U.S. Paralympics and U.S. Handcycling National Time Trial Chamionship saw blazing fast times at Bear Creek Lake Park in Morrison, Colorado, and World Champion handcyclist, Alejandro Albor (HCC) came out the overall winner, with Denver-based Matt Updike (HCB) slotting-in just behind the Californian.

Four out of the top 5 and seven out of the top 10 spots were held by handcyclists in the 45-rider field of disabled cyclists. The race was run in a format that pits each athlete versus the elite per-kilometer standard for their classification. All athletes are given a percent in front or behind that standard and ranked accordingly.

Albor, who flew in late the previous evening looked strong on the straight sections of the technical course, and says he would have gone even faster were it not for the difficult turns near the turnaround. Updike, who has the home turf advantage, mastered the course and looked as smooth and as fast as we have seen since he took silver at the 2002 IPC World TT Championship.

Details, a complete story, and photos are on the way shortly. Complete results are HERE.

You can also read the U.S. Paralympics Release HERE.

This weekend’s Rocky Mountain Omnium is about to kick-off with more than 350 racers, including 45 disabled cyclists, half of whom are handcyclists.

Now in it’s 8th year, the RMO is known as a big-time event. 2007 is no exception. It is the U.S. Handcycling Time Trial and Road Race Championship as well as the U.S. Paralympics National Road Championship. The big event is Friday’s time trial in Bear Creek Lake Park. The new, 13.2 kilometer course will be used to select the World CHampionship Team this year, and is step #1 on the road to Beijing for aspiring U.S. Paralympians.

The handcycle field is fully stacked. Alejandro Albor will make his first appearance since March, and despite his usual sandbagging, is expected to be fit an ready to rock. His old rivalry with Scott McNeice might be rekindled albeit in a bit of a role reversal with Albor being the man to beat these days….throw Oz Sanchez and Seth Arseneau in there to make it interesting and you’ve got a fast front group.

The HCA field looks good and will see James Watson and Scott Rimmer square off for the first time, which should be exciting, and we expect Dave Randall and Brian Mithcell to have some fun in the C1 race.

The real story this weekend however, is the HCB race. Bs have been kicking butt all season long. Matt Updike was killin’ it early season and Todd Richardson has turned it on lately…both have schooled their “more able” C1 counterparts in every race. Meanwhile, Keane West of Lake Placid, FL has been at every race and is definitely “not slow” so long as his bike doesn’t break.

To make things really exciting however, David Lee — dominator of the season opener hill climb in Redlands, CA — and former HCB World CHampion Greg Hockensmith (aka Harry Lockensmith) will be on hand to really pump things up. So who is the favorite ? That’s a tough one. All of these guys have big guns and egos to match…and the word is that the trash talking is getting out of hand. “Joker, Dirt Bag, Pretty Boy, etc” we’ve heard it all here at the USHF headquarters, but we really don’t have an odds-on favorite at this point.

Updike is local and has the advantage of having ridden the course a bunch. Lee however, trains like a maniac and has been rumored to be staying in Boulder for the past 2 weeks to acclimatize….and Hockensmith….well he  just rides a lot and we can’t remember a time when he was slow. Richardson meanwhile has something to prove after missing the registration for lat year’s nationals in PA, and Keane West just plain likes to compete any chance he gets.

So….pick your favorite and place your bets…but get ready for some thermonuclear action!

Check back for some more results, photos, stories, and details!

The start list for Friday’s Time Trial can be found HERE.

The June 2nd CSC Invitational in Arlington, VA doubled as the HealthNet FEderal Services U.S. Handcycling Criterium Championship, and the racing was *awesome* despite a hot, sticky day in the mid-atlantic.

Thanks to the efforts of the Paralyzed Veteran’s of America (PVA), HealthNet, and the DSUSA Wounded Warrior Disabled Sports Project (sponsored by AIG Insurance), the event was a huge success.

Saturday’s events began with an exhibition race pairing newly-injured service men from Walter Reed Medical Center, with elite handcycling athletes. The wounded warriors were able to take a few laps on the technical course and many definitely caught the racing bug.

The day’s main event saw all the big guns line-up. HCB racer, Todd Richardson has been going well all season long, and turned in an impressive victory, finishing 5th overall and taking the B National Crit. title. Brian Mitchell finished just behind Richardson and won the first-ever C1 Criterium title, while David Randall (who recently switched from C2 to C1) crashed out. Mike Sprouse of Rome, GA looked good as well, as did Mr. Consistency Keane West, and a surprising newcomer,  Chris Kaag of Reading, PA.

James Watson was representin’ for the quads and sucked-up the heat to take the HCA title in front of Leland Foster, while Geoff Hopkins of the PVA (HCB) was more about hammin’ it up for the hometown crowd. The race was awesome right from the beginning when PVA Deputy Executive Director, Maurice Jordan blew the whistle for the official start. Not surprisingly, the HCC2 (kneeling) racers moved to the front, and it was Seth Arseneau (Albuqurque, NM), Scott McNeice (St. Petersburg, FL), Oz Sanchez (San Diego, CA) and Chris Peterson (Tierre Verde, FL) who formed the front group.

The surprise of the day was “Mr. Comeback”, Scott McNeice. He looked good early this season in Georgia and Florida, but he looks really good now! Former pack leader, Michel Bond always talks about “the glory days” of handcycling, and it seems they might be back, thanks the VERY competitive fields at most USHF races this year. McNeice may have a lot to do with it, as a man who commands a lot of respect when he shows up. Sanchez — the newbie of the group — was a bit out of sorts in a brand new bike. In the end, it was all about the cornering. With Sanchez trying to figure out his new rig, and Peterson choking after chasing out of ever turn, it was all about McNeice and Arseneau. In the final lap, Arseneau guided his [Schmicking] steed through the turns with a perfect line, and McNeice was hot on his tail. In the final turn to the finish, McNeice made doubly sure Sanchez had nowhere to go and it was a two-up sprint with Arseneau to the line. But the 25-year old Arseneau fancies himself as a bit a criterium specialist — hew was crit champion in 2003 and won in Redlands earlier this year — and went for it all the way to the line. McNeice gave a valiant last minute effort, but it was the young Arseneau who took home the stars ‘n bars jersey.

Some racers braved the light rain the next day and didn’t regret it as they competed on a beautiful time trial course at Haines Point Loop.

A more detailed story and photos will be featured in an upcoming issue of Sports ‘n Spokes, but full results and a photo collage are linked here:

- Full results from the CSC Invitational and Sunday’s TT

- Photo Collage from  the local newspaper,  ROLL CALL.
photo of Seth Arseneau courtesy of Roll Call

Building on the tremendous success of the 2006 World Off-Road Handcycling Championships, U.S. Handcycling, One Off Handcycles, The Adaptive Sports of Crested Butte, and Mount Crested Butte are teaming up again to run a very similar event for 2007. Slated for the weekend of August 25-26 in Crested Butte, the event will include a grueling hill climb, cross country race, and trials exhibition, as well as the usual social events that made the event a thrill for everyone involved last year.

One Off Handcycles returns as a sponsor, and the Adaptive Sports Center (ASC) in Crested Butte continues it’s dominance in the off-road and adventure niche. “The event was very well received last year, so it makes sense to build on what we know works for the future.” said ASC Executive Director, Christopher Hensley.

Check back for more details on the event, or visit the 2007 web page HERE.

You can also find out information through the Adaptive Sports Center website, or the One Off Handcycles website.

It looks like we are in for some exciting action at this weekend’s HealthNet Federal Services U.S. Handcycling Criterium Championships, presented by the Paralyzed Veteran’s of America. The criterium, part of the CSC Invitational Cycling race in Arlington, VA promises to be an epic battle between the sport’s biggest riders. Names like Seth Arseneau, Oz Sanchez, Scott McNeice, Todd Richardson, and more will be on hand in front of the huge crowds in Arlington.

The event will also feature an exhibition race for disabled veterans on Saturday, and includes a clinic, sponsored by the PVA, DSUSA, and AIG Insurance, at Walter Reed Medical Center on Friday.

There should be no shortage of fireworks on the streets of Arlington this weekend! Check back soon for results, race reports, and photos!

Father’s Day weekend - June 15 - 17 - marks a first on the handcycle racing calendar: Racing nationwide! The big event of course, is this year’s Rocky Mountain Omnium, which is also the U.S. Paralympics National Road Cycling Championships. The event — now in it’s 8th year — promises 3-days of awesome racing in and around Denver and includes a spectacular new time trial course in Morrison, the traditional circuit race at the state patrol track, and a new criterium in downtown Denver. In addition, the citizen’s category has been brought back by popular demand for the time trial and road race.

In addition to the RMO, there are two other big events that weekend, including the Tour de Nez, who put on a spectacular show in Reno, NV and will have two handcycle criteriums in front of the huge crowds this year. Also slated for handcycle racing, is the LPMD Foundation Criterium in Louisville, KY, hosted by 2WheelSports, who have been supporting handcycling for a few years now.

So if you have a hankerin’ to get out and race in June — no matter where you live — there’s some great stuff happening!

**And** if that wasn’t enough for you, Ride the Rockies begins on Sunday, June 17th, and the Adaptive Sports of Crested Butte, including U.S. Handcycling Board Members, Steve Ackerman and Chris Hensley will again lead a group of handcyclists across the Rockies over 300+ grueling miles.

The premier disabled cycling race in the continental U.S. - The Rocky Mountain Omnium - in and around Denver, CO is in it’s 8th year! The event is just around the corner, June 15-17, and features three days of racing for cyclists of all abilities. The ‘RMO’ doubles as the U.S. Paralympics Road Cycling Championships, and is also the U.S. Handcycling Time Trial and Road Race Championships.

In conjunction with the races, Adaptive Adventures will be hosting a clinic, and the citizen’s handcycle race categories have been brought back by popular demand for the time trial and Road Race.

Not only is the RMO on a new weekend this year, there is a terrific new time trial course designed by U.S. Handcycling and U.S. Paralympic Coaches from Carmichael Training Systems, and is the first step for Paralympic hopefuls on their road to Beijing in 2008. The TT course is *fast* and is located in Bear Creek Lake Park, right up against the foothills in Morrison. Saturday’s road [circuit] race is the traditional course in Golden at the State Patrol track, and Sunday will feature a new, urban criterium at Curtis Park in Downtown Denver.

The RMO includes races for all Paralympic categories as well as more than 10 able-bodied racing categories.
Don’t miss your chance to register for the biggest event of the year at: http://www.rmomnium.com

See you in Denver!

This year’s Sadler’s Ultra Challenge (July 15-21) — the oldest, toughest, and longest wheelchair and handcycle race in the world — will see a record 30 entrants head to Alaska to battle for 267 miles on roads conecting Fairbanks to Anchorage. Not only is the total field size a record this year, there are many aspects of this year’s race that promise an unforgettable event:

- Number of Alaskan Entrants: 7 (the most ever)
- Number of Wheelchairs: 6 (the most since 1999)
- Number of first-time racers: 12
- Most competitive category: Handcycle B (9 entrants)
- Number of Hispanic Entrants: 7 (the most ever)

The addition of a new category: Handcycle C2 keeps the race current, following trends overseas to offer more categories and create fair, exciting competition. The wheelchair category — dwindling since 1999 — has seen a resurgence in recent years, culminating in a very competitive field for 2007 that includes a rematch from 2006 between Paul Nunnari of Australia and Edwin Figueroa of Long Beach, Ca.

Four-time winner, Alejandro Albor, will be racing in the HCC2 category and will look to be the fastest man on the road this year, following his World Handcycling Title last Fall….which would tie him with Monica Bascio (Handcycle Women) for a record 5 wins. Albor will be battling his Paralympic teammate, Oz Sanchez of San Diego and newcomer, Mike Sprouse of Georgia. Both Sprouse and Sanchez are former Marines, which should make the teamwork aspect of the event very interesting. With the Handcycle C division split, the HCC1 class looks very competitive…keep your eye on crafty veterans Scott Davidson and Joe Dowling, and watch for newcomer, Harold Warner of Tuscon, AZ in his first Sadler’s event.

The biggest and most competitive category this year is the Handcycle B race, with 9 entrants. The favorite is 2-time winner, Peer Bartels of Germany, but David Lee of Cardiff by the Sea, CA (2nd HCB in 2006) has a new bike and has been training hard to make the U.S. Paralympic Team….the race should be nothing short of nuclear.

The Alaskan field is awesome this year, and will showcase the return of Mark Hufford (Eagle River), as well as Edwin Jones of Anchorage. Jones will be competing for his first-time in a handcycle and is joined by Larry Coutermarsh of North Pole, who will be racing for his 23rd year. Tack on three spry newcomers and the “Speedy Sourdough” (fastest Alaskan) prize looks to be up for grabs.

The women’s race will also be interesting this year, with Monica Bascio off the radar, taking the season off. 4-time runner-up, Sherry Shulz of Littleton, CO will undoubtedly arrive well-prepared to square off with Katja Luke of Germany, who was 3rd last year in the fastest women’s event in history. Also on board this year is Maria Luisa Morales Avila of Mexico City, who is a relative unknown in her first race in Alaska.

For more details, visit: http://www.challengealaska.org

2007 Field, Sadler’s Ultra Challenge, Fairbanks to Anchorage, AK
———————————————-
HCB Patrick Cottini Chico CA USA

HCB Mike O’Neill Anchorage AK USA

HCB Ken Bestine Clymer NY USA

HCB Rick Mason Davis CA USA

HCB David Lee Cardiff CA USA

HCB Michael Stevenson Nacogdoches TX USA

HCB Peer Bartels Leer GER

HCB Gustavo Rojas Sacramento CA USA

HCB Mark Hufford Eagle River AK USA

———————————————————
HCC1 Rick Gilliland Kenai AK USA

HCC1 Scott Davidson Shelby Township MI USA

HCC1 Edwin Jones, Jr. Anchorage AK USA

HCC1 Joe Dowling Old Greenwich CT USA

HCC1 Brant Schalk Fairbanks AK USA

HCC1 Harold Warner Tucson AZ USA

HCC1 Hector Bruno Chicago IL USA

HCC1 Larry Coutermarsh North Pole AK USA

HCC1 Sam Ronnegard Cordova AK USA
————————————————————-
HCC2 “Oz” Sanchez San Diego CA USA

HCC2 Mike Sprouse Rome GA USA

HCC2 Alejandro Albor Elk Grove CA USA
————————————————————-
WCHR Edwin Figueroa Commerce CA USA

WCHR Geoffrey Erickson Wilmington CA USA

WCHR Chris Kohler Palm Springs CA USA

WCHR Paul Nunnari Narellan NSW AST

WCHR Yevgeniy  Tetyukhin  Petropavlovsk, KZK

WCHR James Lilly Brookfield IL USA
————————————————————
HCWOM Maria L. M. Avila San Bartolo Ameyalco CP MEX

HCWOM Sherry Ramsey Littleton CO USA

HCWOM Katja Lueke 34127 Kassel GER
————————————————————-

Story by James Watson

The 2007 Wichita Cycle Fest proved to be another exciting 3 days of racing. With a 15 K Time Trial, 36 Mile Road Race, and approx 13 Mile Crit, the weekend was set to satisfy even the most eager racers. There were 14 handcyclists registered ranging in category from HCA to HCC1. Three athletes who traveled from NY, CA, & FL received Warren Strickland Memorial Scholarships. All racers received a Warren Strickland Memorial T-shirt.

Brian Mitchell-KC MO, Keane West-FL, and Patrick Cottini-CA, burned up the course, each winning their class in the Time Trial, Road Race, and Criterium. It was HC-B racer Keane West, however, that dominated the weekend on his LC-1 Freedom Ryder, besting even the “C” class.

15K Time Trial

The time trial was a fairly flat fast course with a moderate South wind. The eyes were on the“A” Class which showed with 5 racers, unheard of in Handcycle Racing these days. Patrick Cottini went off 2 ahead of James Watson-KS (Handcycle Race Promoter) who looked strong going out, gaining steadily on Cottini in the first 5 miles. It looked for sure like Cottini would be passed by Watson as Cottini dug up the dirt, going off the road after not making the turn around. Watson continued to push hard after the turn into the wind but Cottini showed his training superiority and great endurance as he cranked up the speed a notch and held it to the finish. Soon Watson ran out of gas and fell back to a snails pace for a bit before recovering and finishing almost 2 minutes slower than Cottini. Next in was Wayne Romero-KS, new to Handcycling but not to intense competition. The 2 time Paralympic Quad Rugby player made an excellent showing for only his 2^nd competition in a handcycle. Cyclefest veteran “A” class racer Dale Pausewang-KS on an old XLT 7-speed “tank” was next followed by another Cyclefest veteran racer, Doug Jackson-KS.

The “B” Class was smokin’ with Keane West looking like a “C” Class racer with an average speed of over 18mph. Next was Ken Bestine NY, who was just happy to get to ride after a winter of snow, snow, and more snow. Finishing 3^rd was the local favorite and only woman, Jennifer Kreutzer zipping along on her 99xlt 7-speed. The official race cheerleaders and awesome volunteers, Tammy Watson and Rebecca Strickert, were in consensus that “Jenny and Dale need new bikes”. With only one woman in this year’s race, it raised the question: “where was last year’s women’s racer, Heather Grace?”

The “C” Class TT was lead by Brian Mitchell who like West also smoked out an 18+ mph avg. Next in was Jake O’Connor-CO on his sharp looking new Shark “S” with a dropped axel and no camber. Mark Stever-KS, went out strong but was having crank problems and did not finish.

36 Mile Road Race

This is always a great race. There are only 6 turns in this 36 mile course….yeah that’s right…..one turn every 6 miles!!! Where else can you ride and get these kind of miles and straight aways in a RR??? ….In Kansas where the winds…over 20mph…and gusting 30 to 40+ mph, as they whipped through the area all day. Oh by the way, the race took place approximately 3.5 hours east of Greensburg, Kansas where an F5 tornado pretty much demolished the whole town. “It was a windy SOB of a ride” said Brian Mitchell of Lee’s Summit MO. “Riding 6 miles into a 30+ mph crosswind, then 6 miles into a 30+ mph headwind, and then 6 miles into a 30+ mph crosswind proved to be both mentally and physically demoralizing…..but that 6 mile tailwind was sweet!!!!!”

The race started and the field quickly broke into 2 packs of riders, then 3 packs of riders, and then before long that road race transformed itself into a nasty 36 mile time trial. Keane West of Lake Placid Florida looked very strong throughout the whole race. After he, Mitchell and O’Connor traded busting through the wind for the first four miles, O’Connor began to fall off. Mitchell dropped back and picked up O’Connor and the two tried to ride back into West’s draft unsuccessfully. West broke away fast and powered his way home to a 1^st place finish….TT style. O’Connor with limited training after his recent move to CO soon dropped back, leaving him and Mitchell to battle the wind alone.

Meanwhile the “B” and “A” racers had started in a pack. Mark Stever was pulling the group. Ken Bestine tucked in tight behind. Cottini, Watson, Romero, and Pausewang all jumped on board. Soon Pausewang dropped back, caught up and finally dropped for good. Romero was struggling. Stever and Bestine pulled ahead of the rest of the group and Watson moved to the front to pull them back up. Then Romero dropped off. Cottini took the lead and Watson dropped back to pull Romero back up then moved to the front to pull the group back up to Stever and Bestine. Romero dropped back again and this time Cottini pulled him back into the group. Just before the three caught up Romero dropped again and Watson made a final attempt to keep him on as Cottini swung in behind Stever and Bestine. That was it for Watson. He sprinted and hung a few meters back for a while then dropped back to continue on solo. Stever lead Cottini and Bestine for several miles at a fast pace before losing steam and having crank issues again. At that point Cottini pulled out of the draft and passed by with the huge tail wind boosting his lead over the others. Stever soon came to a halt and waited for a sag, not willing to push on fighting his crank problems. He loaded his bike and helped volunteers Sherlyn and Brittney Stever provide sag support. Bestine continued on alone for a few miles until caught by Watson. The two traded off breaking the wind for several miles, then the hills got steeper. Watson pulled ahead leaving the two racers alone against the ferocious wind and on the steepest climb of the day. Several miles back Romero and Pausewang were fighting the hot sun, and wind. Romero ahead of Pausewang kept his pace. Pausewang looking for the advantage on the climb with “mountain drive” suddenly popped a tire and chose to sag in.

Criterium- .8 mile loop with 4 right turns (approx 13 miles total)

This was a super fast fun race. One interesting thing to note is that they ran the handcycles with the CAT4 Women…..and yes two handcyclists rocketed past the CAT4 Women and never looked back….yeah baby score one for the two gimps who kept an approximately 21 mph pace throughout the Crit….the CAT4 Women never led and was approximately a half mile behind when the two handcyclists Keane West and Brian Mitchell crossed the finish line!!!

The Crit started at a rocket’s pace and never let up quickly splitting the field into two packs of riders. Keane and Brian quickly stripped Jake O’Connor off the main pack, who joined the ladies for a while “We think Jake may have been trying to get a phone number or two” said Brian Mitchell of MO. West and Mitchell traded out the lead with West edging out the “C” class racer at the finish line. “I feel Great, lets do it again” said West with a grin from ear to ear. O’Connor stuck in the middle, too fast for the 2^nd group but not fast enough to hang with West and Mitchell found himself just riding hard. Smiling big as he went by the crowd and other racers. Bestine, Cottini, Watson, traded the lead while Romero and Pausewang hung tight and drafted for several laps. The pace picked up and Watson and Cottini hung with Bestine who was looking strong, trading out the lead almost every lap. Cottini was leading as O’Connor lapped the group and Cottini made a break for O’Connor’s draft but didn’t make it. Watson showing great acceleration shot out seconds after and caught O’Connor for a racing lesson he won’t soon forget. Watson looked great as they shot ahead of Bestine and Cottini with 5 laps to go. O’Connor seeing Watson hugging his rear wheel kicked it up a bit, pulling near 17mph into the wind. Watson lost the draft. O’Connor looking to help his buddy (or teach him a lesson) backed off the gas and Watson sprinted back into the draft. After the two repeated this several times Watson dropped back for good, not looking so strong anymore. Bestine and Cottini easily ran him down and pulled into his draft for the last lap and a half. Nearing the next to last turn Bestine pulled out and passed Watson to take the lead with Cottini in tow with a good tail wind. Watson launched a ferocious attack and shot past, gaining a big lead going into the last turn before the finishing stretch. Cottini bided his time and as Watson ran out of gas he kicked on the afterburners and edged him out for his 3^rd victory of the weekend. Bestine finished just behind Watson with Romero and Pausewang finishing soon after to end an awesome 3 days of racing.

For photos and more about handcycling in Kansas, please visit: wcsports.org

RESULTS:

TT

HCA- Doug Jackson 1:06.09, Dale Pausewang 51:05.00, Wayne Romero 48:25.00, James Watson 40:58.00, Patrick Cottini 39:04.00

HCB- Jennifer Kreutzer 1:01.44, Ken Bestine 41:31.00, Brian Mcmillan DNS, Keane West 29:02.00,

HCC- Mark Stever DNF, Jake O’Connor 32:04.00, Brian Mitchel 29:22.00

RR over all

1st Keane West, 2nd Brian Mitchel, 3rd Jake O’Connor,4th Patrick Cottini, 5th James Watson, 6th Kennith Bestine, 7th Wayne Romero, Mark Stever DNF, Dale Pausewang DNF, Brian Mcmillian DNS, Doug Jackson DNS

RR by Class

HC-A, 1st Patrick Cottini, 2nd James Watson, 3rd Wayne Romero, Dale Pausewang DNF, Doug Jackson DNS

HC-B, 1st Keane West, 2nd Kennith Bestine, Brian Mcmillian DNS

HC-C, 1st Brian Mitchel, 2nd Jake O’Connor, Mark Stever DNF

Criterium over all

1st Keane West, 2nd Brian Mitchel, 3rd Jake O’Connor,4th Patrick Cottini, 5th James Watson, 6th Kennith Bestine, 7th Wayne Romero, 8th Dale Pausewang, Mark Stever DNS, Brian Mcmillian DNS

Criterium by Class

HC-A, 1st Patrick Cottini, 2nd James Watson, 3rd Wayne Romero, 4th Dale Pausewang, Doug Jackson DNS

HC-B, 1st Keane West, 2nd Kennith Bestine, Brian Mcmillian DNS

HC-C, 1st Brian Mitchel, 2nd Jake O’Connor, Mark Stever DNF

The Wichita CycleFest kicked off yesterday in Kansas, with some great racing. The event — part of the U.S. Handcycling Series — continues through the weekend. For results, and details about the weekend’s racing, please visit the WCSports website.

Krige Schabort (Cedartown, GA) and Chris Peterson (St. Petersburg, FL) put on a show this week at the Clocktower Classic Handcycling races in Rome, GA. Schabort won Tuesday’s exciting criterium downtown, with Peterson taking a convincing win in Wednesday’s 19-mile road race. The races were sponsored and organized by the Rome, GA Convention and Visitor’s Bureau and the Redmond Regional Medical Center, with support from Parkway Ford Mobility. The events were run in conjunction with the Tour de Georgia, a world class cycling event featuring top European and American pro cycling teams. “We’ve been involved with the Tour de Georgia for a few years, and the handcycling race is something we knew would be a big hit here in Rome.” said Ann Hortman of the Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Krige Schabort wins the criterium in Rome, GA
Photo: The Cedartown Standard. Click here for story.

Schabort, who lives just down the road in Cedartown, arrived home from a 2nd-placed finish at the Boston Marathon just hours before the criterium start. Having never raced against one another before, Schabort and heavy favorite Oz Sanchez (who won two days earlier in Jacksonville) were a little unsure of what to expect. “I’ve never seen him race before, and I won’t know what to expect until the gun goes off.” said team U.S. Handcycling member, Sanchez.

As the race got underway, it looked to be anybody’s game as a huge group of 10 riders stayed together for the first two laps. On lap three, Chris Peterson put in an acceleration on the short-but-steep hill on the backside and whittled the lead group down to four, including Schabort, Sanchez, and Scott McNeice. Monique Van der Vorst, Todd Richardson, and Matt Updike gave furious chase just meters behind, while the rest of the field began to spread out. Not unlike SUnday’s Jacksonville crit, the lead group remained in tact through the final lap and it was a game of cat and mouse. Sanchez blew turn three on the final lap, drfiting extremely wide, and Schabort — with a little help from Peterson — attacked hard. Sanchez recovered from his mistake, but it was too late as Schabort turned on the afterburners and posted a thrilling victory to the delight of the huge crowd. Peterson held off McNeice for 3rd as Schabort celebrated with high fives from the crowd.

Meanwhile, Richardson was gapped with two laps remaining and Updike pushed the pace to shake him for good. Updike however, was in a tricky situation as Van der Vorst was clearly the crowd favorite. “It was ‘lose / lose’ for me….if I outsprinted her, I would be the bad guy, and if she outsprinted me, it’d be the second time in three days.” said Updike. Van der Vorst gave it her all towards the line and the crowd went crazy as she edged out Updike and showed off her rainbow-striped world champion’s jersey.

Also making a good showing were Patrick Doak (Concord, MA) and Keane West (Lake Placid, FL) finishing 8th and 9th, respectively. There was definitely some local flavor as well, that saw Derek Little (15th) of nearby Cartesville and Bob Anders (12th) of Cedartown get some great fan support….but it was the local hero, Mike Sprouse (a former Marine) who resides in Rome and received an extra few mph from the awesome crowd downtown.

ROAD RACE

The road race on Wednesday was “nothing short of awesome” according to many athletes who competed. The City of Rome worked with race directors John Crowley and Ann Hortman to shut down 20-miles of smooth, beautiful, rolling terrain just outside of town. The handcyclists took off immediately following the start of the Tour de Georgia road stage and as soon as the racing began in earnest, Sanchez moved to the front. “I get really antsy in a big group, and I just can’t stand to sit in the back and wait for things to happen” said the 30-year old from San Diego.

With quite a few small hills in the course, strategy proved to be a big factor for the day. After the two mile mark, Schabort pushed hard up a small hill, with Peterson in tow. As they crested the hill, they caught Sanchez and McNeice asleep and opened a 20-meter gap. Peterson immediately moved to the front and the two Invacare riders opened up the racing 101 manual and traded the lead until the gap grew to 30 seconds. The ensuing 10 minutes of racing was nothing short of nuclear as McNeice and Sanchez furiously chased, not conceding defeat without a fight. By the time the leaders hit the halfway mark, they moved out of sight on a twisting section of the course and were out front by a minute. They settled in to a rhythm, and it was a two-man race to the fast, downhill finish at Lock and Dam Park, where Peterson used the weight advantage to slingshot down the hill and take the win (his first) by a good 10 meters.

Sanchez rode in with McNeice, and edged out the crafty veteran for 3rd. It seemed that two-man sprints were the theme for the day as Updike was again challenged by Van de Vorst after dropping Richardson [again] at the 13-mile mark, and wound up 0 for 3. Next in was Patrick Doak, who used his powerful triathlon time trial ability to chase down Richardson and finish 7th by inches. In a similar move, Rafael Ibarra powered by Keane West for 9th, and Bob Anders came in ahead of Joe Dowling for 11th. Tennessee contingent Tom Kahler and Dennis Clark also sprinted for the line, with Kahler edging out his training partner for 17th.

One of the most exciting parts of the event, was what we like to call “The Backwoods Boys.” Indeed, all bike races need local flavor, and there was no shortage of it on the rural roads of Georgia as local residents came out to cheer on the handcyclists. Just prior to the turnaround on the course, a local group of rockers set-up a softball game and a band in their front yard and jammed out classic rock covers as the race went by…a truly awesome sight to see!

The consensus from all the athletes who participated at this year’s Clocktower Classic was that it was a first-class race. In addition to the tremendous hospitality from the community, the awards ceremony following the race was very special to many athletes, including U.S Handcycling staff. The Floyd County wellness program created a special award in memory of our fallen brother, Warren Strickland. Strickland competed in Rome the last two years and the community was shocked to hear of Warren’s passing, and thus created the Warren Strickland Spirit of Inspiration Award. After talking to race staff and participants, Floyd County decided to give the award to Krige Schabort. Schabort, who helped design the road race course and was instrumental in bringing a handcycling event to Rome, is very well liked in the wheelchair sports community. According to local racer Mike Sprouse, Krige’s guidance in sport and healthy living “has changed his life.” There was really not more of a fitting end to a great week of racing in the Southeast. Special thanks to the Harbin Clinic Cycling Team and all the volunteers who helped make the race a success!
Check back soon for full results, including U.S. Handcycling Series point standings.

Slide Show from the road race (courtesy of Catherine Rockwell):

Slide Show from the criterium (courtesy of Tammy Kramer):

U.S. Handcycling Team member, Oz Sanchez (San Diego, CA), won a thrilling sprint finish with Chris Peterson at the Jacksonville Cycling Classic Criterium yesterday. Although Sanchez is currently regarded as one of the top American handcycle racers, Jacksonville was the first major victory of his career. “That was a tough race, but I knew I had it after the final turn!” said Sanchez following the win.

Matt Updike (Denver, CO) had a solid race, but the HCB rider couldn’t quite hang with the four kneelers in the front group that inluded Sanchez, Invacare’s Chris Peterson and Scott McNeice (looking solid at his first race in three years), along with women’s World Champion Monique Van der Vorst of Holland who came to Florida for some training, and to put the hurt on the American men’s field. Updike’s performance earned him 5th overall and he was of course the top HCB rider. Right behind Updike was the best-placed HCC1 rider, Rafael Ibarra (Atlanta, GA) who looked strong in his first event of the year.

Scott Rimmer of Daytona, FL came out on top of the HCA class after a great battle with former [wheelchair racing] Paralympian Burt Burns, while newcomers Keane West (Lake Placid, FL), Mike Sprouse (Rome, GA) and Jose Pudillo (Atlanta, GA) all turned in good looking performances in their respective categories along with 67-year-old racing veteran Joe Dowling (Greenwich, CT) who logged an impressive 10th-place overall. The event was a great success thanks event sponsor and organizer, Brooks Rehabilitation Adaptive Sports Program. “We only put this event together 3 months ago, and were very pleased with the turnout” said Alice Krauss, director of the program at Brooks.

The 9/10 mile course was flat with light wind, and the final turn was a sharp 90-degree, flat left-hander. Sanchez, fed-up with getting worked-over by Invacare teamwork (in the form of Peterson, McNeice and Van der Vorst), put the hammer down in the final lap with Peterson on his wheel in to the final turn. Sanchez let it all hang out in to the corner while Peterson hit the brakes and lost 3 feet. It was a drag race from there and Sanchez cruised across the line with the same gap he had earned on the turn. McNeice held on for 3rd while the flying dutch woman pulled-off an impressive 4th place overall. “That was a fun course, but I’m really waiting for the road race at the Tour de Georgia next Wednesday.” said Van der Vorst following the race.

Most of the field who competed in Jacksonville will make the drive to Rome, GA for a criterium on Tuesday and a road race on Wednesday sponsored by the Greater Rome Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Click here for a news story about the U.S. Handcycling / Brooks Rehab clinic. 

View the slideshow (below) of the handcycle races from Jacksonville.com:
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Check back with ushandcycling.org for complete results from Jacksonville and updates from Rome, GA!

This year’s Sadler’s Ultra Challenge promises to be as exciting as ever. Due to popular demand, we have *INCREASED* the total prize purse to $30,000 and will include 5 categories for the first ti