Welp it’s that time of the week (that time being totally late) but anyways, our gravel grinder happened this weekend, check out what Greg had to say about it!
August 17 was the first ERTC gravel race, the Coal Lake Crusher. Well, it was supposed to be a race but we didn't quite get enough registrants so we turned it into an amazing group ride. About 20 of us toured the roads the fast hard packed gravel north of Coal Lake. Some steep punchy climbs and beautiful rural scenery kept it interesting. Everyone loved the course and hoped that we can organize it again next year. We're thinking with some word of mouth and a better date we can get the registrants to make the race happen and have this as an annual event. Also, thanks to Blindman Brewing everyone who showed up got some tasty craft beer!
CROSS. IS. COMING!!!! CXurious? Wikipedia is a good start (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyclo-cross) but the essence is: it’s really hard and messy for an hour, but then you get to hang out and socialize and make friends with other racers before and after, and is a great way to end the season! Many of us use it to put a nice cap on our outdoor cycling season as the days get shorter and the weather turns colder. There are many great options for cross training this year and due to life events, Coach Tim (who led our CX training sessions) has decided to take a break from coaching us. If you want to get some CX training in, I’ve listed a few options, all endorsed by ERTC:
RubberSide Cycling (Beginner to Advanced, Skills Training) - https://www.facebook.com/events/403916500432637/
YEGCross - Advanced Intervals (assumes you know basic CX skills and will work on them on your own time) - https://www.facebook.com/groups/1635190320143436/
CXTravaganza - CX Community Days (Weekend Camp, All skill levels) - https://www.facebook.com/events/1291608371017228/ https://www.facebook.com/CXtravaganza-Cyclocross-Alberta-Community-Day-101184187913959/
August 22-25 - Alberta Masters Games - a chance for weekend warriors and cycling enthusiasts to compete in their very own competition for MTB,CX and Road - More information here: https://albertasport.ca/alberta-games/alberta-masters-games/home/sports/ Open to all residents of Alberta over 30, no license required, and if you hold an Elite/Cat1/2 license in a discipline you won’t be allowed to race that discipline.
August 25 - Little Italy / Giovanni Caboto criterium - I usually don’t push races here but this race will be an event! Pedalhead Road Works is partnering up with Al Centro and Otto to provide an italian culture festival, with this crit as a part of it! Come out, enjoy some of , and your club mates racing and take part in the part in the festivities on a Sunday afternoon! https://www.pedalheadroadworks.com/updates/giro-del-centro
September 7 - DV100 - typically the last road event of the year, it’s a great way to cap off the event season. Race or Ride, lots of swag, prizes and people! http://dv100.ca/