Meet the Teams #9
Portland's Ironclad Racing with Dave Aldersebaes
The 2008 season will be Ironclad's second racing in the pelotons of the Northwest, and they'll be looking to take a big step forward. By the end of 2007, many Ironclad riders had earned upgrades and for 2008 the team looks to be competing in Cat. 3 races and up. Read the interview...
Meet the Teams #8
Team Group Health with Dana Robertson-Halter
Team Group Health has had astounding successes in 2007 both on, and off the race course. As well known for their goodwill as their speed, USA Cycling's 2004 and 2005 Club of the Year looks to get even better in '08. Read the interview...
Meet the Teams #7
Class is in Session with Cycle University and Craid Undem
Cycle U. is well-known for coaching up riders of all abilities and the new team will serve riders who are new to the sport and don't want to jump in headfirst. Craig Undem joins us and lets us know why joining the Cycle U. team will give you a leg up on the competition as you begin your cycling career. Read the interview...
Meet the Teams #6
Team AVA/Counterbalance with Lara Thoreson
This group of fun-loving racers can be seen on all kinds of different bikes, from road bikes to track bikes to cross bikes and probably even a fixed gear messenger bike. The team that proclames itself to be a bit "rough around the edges" is a welcome edition to a scene that can sometimes be a bit stuffy. Read the interview...
Meet the Teams #5
Step Down Racing, presented by Second Ascent
You all are surely familiar with the Blue Train of the Second Ascent Team. We can remember two years ago when BMC pro Ian MacKissick was tearing the Cat 3 field a new one. And in the years since they've been just as successful fielding strong riders in the under-categories and developing a strong base on which to build an elite team. Read the interview...
Meet the Teams #4
Starbucks Cycling Team with Steve Zeliadt and Jill Talcott
The Starbucks Cycling team is a small outfit whose title sponsor is well-known all over the planet. Their plans for expansion don't include estabishing satelite teams all over the globe, but they are adding a men's team for 2008, as well as a new co-title sponsor. Read the interview...
Meet the Teams #3
Wines of Washington/Union Bay Cycling
One of Seattle's largest teams: Wines of Washington/Union Bay Cycling has over 100 members and field very strong men's and women's teams. Their women's team swept the Elite BARR competition and their men's team had fifteen riders move up within the cycling ranks in '07. Read the interview...
Meet the Teams #2
Team Fanatik (Bellingham)
Team Fanatik has been in the peloton for a year now and mostly focuses on Masters racing. As is the team, most of its riders are new to the sport. But despite their neophyte status, Team Fanatik had a lot of success in various Master's categories. For next year, the team is looking to expand their roster and their scope as they break into the Senior categories. Read the interview...
Meet the Teams #1
Team Zoka/Cucina Fresca with Travis Dykstra
Team Zoka/Cucina Fresca which is know around town as Seattle Super Squadra, or S3. If you want to learn more about Team Zoka/Cucina Fresca, read on. BicycleNorthwest had the privilege of chatting with the team's president, and Cat. 2 roadie, Travis Dykstra. Read the interview...
Meet the Teams #9
Portland's Ironclad Racing with Dave Aldersebaes
This week we continue our Meet the Teams profiles after a bit of a hiatus with our first Portland team: Ironclad Racing. The 2008 season will be Ironclad's second racing in the pelotons of the Northwest, and they'll be looking to take a big step forward. By the end of 2007, many Ironclad riders had earned upgrades and for 2008 the team looks to be competing Cat. 3 races and up. Dave Aldersebaes, founder of Ironclad Racing took time out of his schedule to talk with BicycleNorthwest about this new team, its inaugural season, and their plans for the future. We're hoping that this is the first of many Oregon-based team profiles.
BicycleNorthWest:First as team representative, can you tell us a bit about yourself?
Dave Aldersebaes: I am the founder and Captain of the team. Uniform designer, strategy maker, cocktail stirrer. I pretty much did it all in the first year, but I've delegated some of the leadership responsibilities as we've grown for what will be our second year in 2008.
BNW: Can you tell a bit about your team in general? Where it's based, who your main sponsors are, etc.?
DA: Portland is the home base, and my employer, Ironclad Performance Wear, is the title sponsor of the team. We've inked up with Revolver Bikes (Portland), Velorforma cycles (Portland) and OS Nutrition (Nashville, TN) for '08. We're primarily a Cat 3 and up team. We'll number about 30 to 35 for '08, with 30 being the plateau.
BNW: So your roster is limited? How many new riders is your team hoping to recruit for '08 to reach your goal?
DA: We do limit the roster as we have a somewhat unique culture; we're not super results oriented, but we are very team and teamwork-oriented. We never race without a plan, and we always trade off working for each other, no matter what the chances are of placing well. We are more interested in recruiting women to bolster the road scene on that side. We have picked up a few select men, and we have our eyes on a few other guys that have come to us looking for homes for next year.
BNW: That's great. It's nice to start teaching teamwork early on. What do you think your team has to offer new riders and how do you support new riders? How about veteran riders?
DA: Well, aside from myself and a rider or two from the '07 team, Ironclad was ALL first year riders. We've instilled the teamwork ethic, whereby we all look out for each other, and it breeds a nurturing environment. Everyone is willing to help everyone else, and we accept that for newbies, there is no such thing as a stupid question. I love passing on my knowledge of the sport in a team sense, and I think the '07 results spoke for themselves.
BNW: What do you think your team is best know for? Or, what would you like your team to be best know for?
DA: I certainly think we have pretty hot uniforms, but if we're known for something, I hope it would be for being classy riders. I tried to instill that in my guys last year, and will certainly reinforce it for 2008 too. Look, we're just playing bike here. It's not the Tour, and our rivals are people I'd gladly buy rounds of beer for.
BNW: That's a beautiful attitude that is often lacking in amateur bike racing. More riders should adopt that disposition. What qualities are you looking for in new teammates?
DA: Mostly a culture fit, I suppose. Hard to say that when we have the most eclectic groups of guys and gals, but let's just say it takes a bit of tolerance to be on this squad. We're serious, but we're not that serious. You won't find any calorie counting going on here.
BNW: Nice. Are their any requirements for being on the team?
DA: I have a fair set of rules as far as membership goes. I require ten races out of people, in any discipline, even Alley Cats. I also ask that all the riders wear not only their uniform, but their Ironclad product when out training etc.
BNW: That seems very reasonable. Aside from those requirements, what sorts of contributions to the team and/or community do you hope members will make?
DA: To ride with integrity and class, regardless of results, and maintain a healthy, fun image. We do have some philanthropists in our midst that work for the BTA, too, so that's a good thing.
BNW: It's always good to give back. What were some of the highlights of the '07 racing season for your team?
DA: Let's see ... the CMG/Alpine Mortgage race - we really raced a team race and won the overall in the 4/5. The Women's State [Oregon] Champ race was good, too, where we took second. THere were lots of good wins at PIR that helped the year along, too.
BNW: Very good. It sounds like a successful inaugural season for Ironclad racing. What are some of your goals for the '08 season?
DA: We want to bring pretty good sized squads to Mt Hood and Cascade, and we'll be sending a few riders down to Ironclad HQ where they'll also race in the Manhattan Grand Prix!
BNW: WOw, that will be quite an experience! Are there any riders in particular who made strong showings this season? Or that you expect to be forces in the local pelotons next season?
DA: All the folks had an amazing year. There's not one let down in the bunch. They all put a tough effort in and got something wonderful out of the season. I look to build on this in '08, and we've hired a few more riders to help round us out, but overall I think the OBRA scene can look forward to more of the same.
BNW: Is there anything else you'd like to say about your team that wasn't covered here?
DA: I think we about got it covered! We're just happy to be part of the best cycling scene in the U.S.!!
BNW: Us too! Thanks for taking the time to fill us in on Ironclad racing, Dave. Keep the rubber side down.
DA: Thanks. You too.
Meet the Teams #8
Team Group Health with Dana Robertson-Halter
This week brings us one of our final Meet the Teams profiles for 2007. We've got a few requests pending still, and if you have a team you'd like us to profile and found we haven't asked, just let us know! As for this week's team - Team Group Health - we were able to speak with Dana Robertson-Halter. She filled us in on her teams astounding successes from 2007 both on, and off the race course. As well known for their goodwill as their speed, USA Cycling's 2004 and 2005 Club of the Year looks to get even better in '08. But don't take my word for it.
BicycleNorthWest: First as team representative, can you tell us a bit about yourself?
Dana Robertson-Halter: Sure, I'm the President of Team Group Health, and I'm a 33-year old Category 2 road racer. I'm currently contracting at Microsoft as a Product Manager, and I'm married with four furry children - two dogs and two cats.
BNW: Can you tell a bit about your team in general? Where it's based, who your main sponsors are, etc.?
DRH: Team Group Health is based in Seattle, but we have a Portland contingent of riders as well. Our women compete in all four of cycling's disciplines - road, cyclocross, track, and mountain biking. TGH's title sponsor is Group Health Cooperative. Our other sponsors include: Chef'n, Dreamclinic, Edward Jones Fremont Branch, First Endurance, Keen Footwear, nuun active hydration, Real Rehab, Sammamish Valley Cycle, Sigma Sport, Smith Sport Optics, Sweet Spot, and Wonderful Union.
BNW: Is your team roster limited? How many new riders is your team hoping to recruit for '08?
DRH: Our roster is not limited for the 2008 racing season - we'd love to find 15-20 new women who are committed to racing as a team, learning new skills and tactics, growing the sport, and having fun.
BNW: Excellent. The sport can always use more of those kinds of people. What do you think your team has to offer new riders and how do you support new riders? How about veteran riders?
DRH:Team Group Health is the largest women's team in the Pacific Northwest with nearly 80 women ranging in age from 16-60. At the core, we're a development team, and work hard with our new riders to ensure that they have the bike handling skills, equipment, and knowledge to be the best cyclists they can be. To achieve this goal, our veteran riders lead clinics on everything from cornering and race preparation, and we have off-the-bike clinics to talk about bike maintenance, nutrition and coaching. We also have a strong team of elite caliber racers who have competed all over the country, and we meet as a 1/2/3 team regularly to discuss our race schedule. We also do some category-specific rides so we're familiar with each other's strengths and weaknesses.
BNW: Sounds like you've got the bases covered for your riders. So, what do you think your team is best know for? Or, what would you like your team to be best known for?
DRH: We're known for being some of the best bike handlers in the peloton, and for our development of the sport. We strive to reduce the 'intimidation factor' in cycling by recruiting and talking to women of all ages and ability levels. For many of us, mentoring new riders and watching them develop a passion for the sport is the most rewarding part of bike racing.
BNW: The intimidation factor can be difficult to overcome for many. It's nice your team tries to address that. What qualities are you looking for in new teammates?
DRH: We're looking for women who want to learn and make new friends. Our focus is on developing new riders and building camaraderie.
BNW: Are their any requirements for being on the team? i.e. must riders do a certain number of races, or volunteer a certain number of hours?
DRH: We expect all new riders to participate in a minimum of 10 races - these can be all road races or mountain bike races, or they can be a mix of all four disciplines. Team Group Health's mission is to develop the sport and give back to the community, and team members perform three "Team Tasks" each year. Tasks include volunteering at the Marymoor Velodrome on Friday nights, stepping up to represent the team at the Bike Expo, teaching kids to ride, etc. Additionally, our racers are expected to attend weekend team rides.
BNW: Aside from those requirements, what sorts of contributions to the team and/or community do you hope members will make?
DRH: Last year, we raised over $33,000 riding in the Group Health MS150 and increased awareness about Multiple Sclerosis, we led and organized the Group Health team of 105 riders to train and participate in the MS 150, we taught kids to ride bicycles at Group Health's Bicycle Saturdays and Sundays, and we participated in the Adopt-A-Road program, maintaining a stretch of road in King County.
BNW: Wow! Those are some really great "give-backs". What were some of the highlights of the '07 racing season for your team?
DRH: We were successful on both ends of the development spectrum in 2007 - our Category 3, 4 and Master B women were the best in the state, winning the Best All Around Rider (BARR) competitions. Additionally, we sent a team of eight riders to the Nature Valley Grand Prix in Minnesota, placing 8th in the team competition against the nation's top professional teams. We had ten 2007 State Championship winners and won 21 medals overall. And we've had almost 400 top-ten finishes in Road, Track, Mountain, and Cyclocross Races, including 40 Victories.
BNW: Sounds like a productive season, to say the least. What are some of your goals for the '08 season?
DRH: Our 2008 season goals include winning USA Cycling's "Club of the Year" for the third time. We want to continue to support Team Group Health racers attending national events. We'll further develop Cat 4 upgrade program to identify, mentor, and upgrade interested riders. We'll also mentor new Cat 3 upgrades and encourage development of a Cat 3 field for women. And finally, we'll promote safety and sportsmanship on and off the race course
BNW: Those sound like excellent goals. Thank you for taking the time to chat with us, Dana. And best of look the rest of the year and in '08.
DNH: No problem, thank you as well.
Meet the Teams #7
Class is in Session with Cycle University's Craig Undem
This week's second Meet the Teams profile features a new team that will bring new riders into the ranks of competative cycling. Cycle U. is well-known for coaching up riders of all abilities and the new team will serve riders who are new to the sport and don't want to jump in headfirst. Craig Undem joins us and lets us know why joining the Cycle U. team will give you a leg up on the competition as you begin your cycling career. So grab a pen and paper and take some notes, because class is in session.
BicycleNorthWest: Professor Undem, can you tell us a bit about yourself?
Craig Undem: I am an old racer; it still says Cat. 1 on my license but that hasn't been used much the last 10 years since I became a full time coach. I raced pro Road, Mountain and Cross and love all three, and track to boot. Racing just got in my blood in 1986 and I started Cycle University three-and-a-half years years ago to keep riding while making a living doing what I love. Toby Swanson and the other coaches will be running the team, but I still love the smell of embrocation in the morning and will do all I can to help our new racers.
Familialy speaking, I have an amazing wife Joy who has supported me in all my racing and coaching endeavors, and a four-and-a-half year old boy Matthew who is in his 3rd season racing cyclocross. I think even our dog Brutus and cat Bob would ride if they had hands.
BNW: Can you tell a bit about your team in general? Where it's based, who your main sponsors are, etc.?
CU: We are a new team based in Seattle representing Cycle University. The idea is to help people bridge the gap between riding and racing. We see hundreds of people come into our classes each year and many of them have been asking how to get started racing. We have been pointing them to the meet the team rides or the womens no drop rides but we still think many of them never take it further. We wanted to give riders the support to try racing and break down some of the challenges with getting started and basically hand them a jersey and say "come race with us".
BNW: Is your team roster limited? How many new riders is your team hoping to recruit for '08?
CU: We won't limit it but our target is 10 men and 10 women. Everyone will be new this year except our seasoned old coaches. The 7 of us will be leading the clinics and training events to get everyone ready for a great 08. As coaches all of us have been on numerous teams and have taken the best ideas we have seen and designed this new "development team" to focus on the brand new racer.
BNW: What do you think your team has to offer new riders and how do you support new riders? How about veteran riders?
CU: We are only open to riders with little or no racing experience. We won't take anyone who has been on another team unless they never really participated or raced. Our entire focus is on no drop clinics and rides to teach new racers what to do on race day. Every ride with us will be a clinic teaching you try something new or practicing skills to help you on race day. We will go to the races with a tent, trainers and warm up help and be there to watch and support during the races. We will do group orders to get our riders the equipment they need at the best prices we can get. Each rider will get a full training plan and have a coach to consult with.
BNW: What do you think your team is best know for? (i.e.- jersey colors, popular or strong riders, good attitudes, community service, etc...) Or, what would you like your team to be best know for?
CU: Helping new racers get a great start and supporting them 100%. Eventually we want to see them go on to be successful on bigger teams and at the higher categories.
BNW: What qualities are you looking for in new teammates? Are you more focused on finding talent? Development? Camaraderie? All of the above?
CU: Purely development and attitude. You can be 65 or 18 years old as long as you have a desire to learn and willingness to risk looking foolish as you get started racing, we want you in our jersey. We believe that it has to be fun as well or you just won't keep doing it, so we want people who can laugh at themselves and have some fun too.
BNW: Are their any requirements for being on the team? i.e. riders must do a certain number of races, or volunteer a certain number of hours?
CU: We are asking for 4-5 races and 5 hours of helping at our race or charity event for the season. Many people are busy and don't know how much they will like racing so we don't force a big commitment. We just want them to have the best chances for enjoying themselves and seeing if they really like it or not.
BNW: Aside from those requirements, what sorts of contributions to the team do you hope members will make?
CU: We hope everyone will bring a smile or joke and have some fun. We also hope to find a leader or two who will help on some of the longer training rides if they have some favorite routes. If the team gets bigger we will look for captains to lead the social and indoor testing events we will do. It would also be great to have them there with a cowbell or water bottle on the steep climbs to support their teammates if they get really into it.
BNW: What were some of the highlights of the '07 racing season for your team?
CU: 08 will be our first year.
BNW: What are some of your goals for the '08 season?
CU: Help every rider who signs on with us experience their best racing effort. Give everyone on the team the skills to ride well and safetly in the group. Have a blast doing it.
BNW: Are there any riders in paticular who made strong showings this season? Or that you expect to be forces in the local peletons next season?
CU: We hope to upgrade a few of our riders into Cat. 3 and onto bigger teams if they are ready either midway or at the end of the season. Mostly, we are looking for personal victories this season.
BNW: Fantastic. Well, thanks for your time, Craig. And we'll see you at the races.
CU: You bet! Take care.
Meet the Teams #6
Team AVA/Counterbalance with Lara Thoreson
We continue our Meet the Teams profiles this week with two teams. First up is the AVA/Counterbalance racing team. This group of fun-loving racers can be seen on all kinds of different bikes, from road bikes to track bikes to cross bikes and probably even a fixed gear messenger bike. The team that proclames itself to be a bit "rough around the edges" is a welcome edition to a scene that can sometimes be a bit stuffy. Lara Thoreson took some time to let BicycleNorthwest in on the inner-workings of her AVA/Counterbalance squad, so sit back and have some fun!
BicycleNorthwest: First can you tell a bit about yourself?
Lara Thoreson: I'm an ex-Seattle bike messenger now working as a wetland biologist for a firm in Ballard. My most recent success is being elected to the board of directors for the Marymoor Velodrome Association. As for bicycle riding, this is my second full season of racing for AVA Counterbalance. I started racing at the velodrome and ventured into cyclocross last season. I've since upgraded to CAT 3 in both disciplines. I have done a few road races and hope to do more this next season.
BNW: Can you tell a bit about your team in general? Where it's based, who your main sponsors are, etc.?
LT: Our team is a mix of people. We tend to be seen as the misfits of the bicycle racing community, mostly because we started from a group of bike messengers. And although we can be a little rough around the edges we like to race hard and have fun. We have really blossomed over the last two years into a full-blown racing team, with several of our racers winning events almost on a weekly basis. Our team is based out of a bike shop called Counterbalance at the base of Queen Anne Avenue in Seattle. Our main sponsors are the shop, Anthony Vega and Associates Real Estate (AVA), and Wax On Spas.
BNW: This community needs a little more "rough around the edges" fun, if you ask us. Is your team roster limited? How many new riders is your team hoping to recruit for '08?
LT: No, our roster is not limited and we don't have any specific numbers; however we'd like to stay at a size where everyone knows each other.
BNW: Sounds like a good plan. What do you think your team has to offer new riders and how do you support new riders? How about veteran riders?
LT: Our team provides those wanting to venture into competitive cycling a chance to develop skills on team rides and training sessions, coaching tips from our racing veteran Todd G., carpooling opportunities, etc. We are a developmental team that is also actively recruiting elite-level riders. Our race fee re-imbursment program is unparalleled. Our sponsors have been extremely supportive. Counterbalance provides a discount to all of our riders, and helps out with mechanical issues. Anthony Vega is well known for his race day roadside support, bringing food, beverages, and team spirit. As a team we try to be considerate of those who have budget constraints, and we often give perks for our racers who win races or place high.
BNW: It seems as though your team provides great support to its riders. What do you think your team is best know for? Or, what would you like your team to be best know for?
LT: Hmmm, Our team is so amazing I couldn't possibly list all of the things we are popular for. But if I have to narrow it down I'd say we have the best cheering squads at the track, at crits and cyclocross. We stay after our races (or arrive early) and cheer on our teammates.
BNW: There's that supportive attitude again. What qualities are you looking for in new teammates?
LT: We are mostly looking for team players and people who love racing. Talent is a plus, but not at the expense of an inspirational attitude. Specifically, we would love to see our women's team grow and we would love to have more men road racers.
BNW: Women's cycling has really grown a lot recently. Are their any requirements for being on the team?
LT: We are currently fine-tuning our requirements but as of now they are as follows: Track: min. 10 nights, Road: 3 dedicated races, Cyclocross: 4 races out of 9 in the series, and Mountain: TBD based upon individual riders.
BNW: Your riders won't have a problem keeping busy. Aside from those requirements, what sorts of contributions to the team do you hope members will make?
LT: As our team structure develops we are finding new ways for members to contribute. Early in the year we hosted Gold Sprints at the Bike Expo. That's something you won't get with any other team out there! We ask that you help out with team events and be a part of the team.
BNW: What are some of your goals for the '08 season?
LT: We hope to continue to grow and develop the road racing squads.
BNW: Are there any riders in particular who made strong showings this season? Or that you expect to be forces in the local pelotons next season?
LT: Seth Holton was a state champion this year. Mary McMeen has been a very strong force out at the Marymoor velodrome. Molly Foster has also shown her talent during the road season, especially during long grueling, hilly races. And she has been placing in the top ten for cyclcross too. Craig Etheridge, Todd McMeen, and Jeff Middlewoood are only a few of our top male racers. They span the track, road, and cyclocross series.
BNW: Fantastic! Is there anything else you'd like to say about your team that wasn't covered here?
LT: Our team rules! And haven't you heard? We have more fun than any other team out there!!
BNW: Consider us, and our readers duly informed. Thanks for your time Lara.
LT: No problem, thank you.
Meet the Teams Profile # 5
Step Down Racing, presented by Second Ascent
This week brings us yet another Meet the Teams profile. You all are surely familiar with the Blue Train of the Second Ascent Team. We can remember two years ago when BMC pro Ian MacKissick was tearing the Cat 3 field a new one. And in the years since they've been just as successful fielding strong riders in the under-categories and developing a strong base on which to build an elite team. "The Mouth" Nik Rebhuhn took time out of his busy schedule to tell us all about the Second Ascent bicycle racing team whose Meet the Team ride was Saturday, October 6th.
BicycleNorthwest: First as team representative, can you tell a bit about yourself?
Nick Rebhuhn: You bet, I'm 5'10, 185lbs - winter weight - a Cancer, a Cat 3 racer and I like long walks on the beach. My role on the team is basically "The Mouth." We have a number of guys that are active in helping run the team and along with them I act as the point man for the public and team members to contact. To help support the crack habit of bike racing, on the side I work as a real estate agent.
BNW: It's funny how so many of us cyclists refer to cycling as an addiction. Can you tell a bit about your team in general?
NR: We were basically founded in 2002 with Second Ascent in Ballard as our title sponsor. We are an all men's team, but maintain a close relationship with the girls of Team Group Health. Our additional sponsors are Cherry Valley Lumber, Cellar 46, Nuun, Real Rehab and Atomic, along with Northwave shoes and Rudy Project as merchandise sponsors.
BNW: Excellent. Is your team roster limited? How many new riders is your team hoping to recruit for '08?
NR: Our roster is not limited and we are looking forward to recruiting new and existing racers of all levels this fall.
BNW: So, open enrollment... What do you think your team has to offer new riders and how do you support new riders? How about veteran riders?
NR: We hope to provide new racers and vets alike with the education and support they need to successfully reach whatever racing goals they might have. Hey, we could all learn something, right?
BNW: For sure.
NR: As well, we hope we can provide the camaraderie and motivation needed to train through the long wet winter months. Most of all we hope to offer a great racing experience. In a sport that most people may think is quite individual, we pride ourselves on working well as a team to get our jersey on the podium.
BNW: A team mentality is definitely important for a strong racing team. What do you think your team is best know for? Or, what would you like your team to be best known for?
NR: We've managed to maintain a particular image. You'll have to ask around on that one.
BNW: Hmmm... we'll have to do some investigation on that one. What qualities are you looking for in new teammates?
NR: The two main things we look for in a new teammate are a strong desire to race and to have fun doing it. We like to train hard, race hard and have fun on and off the bike. At a typical stage race, we're the guys who are sitting underneath our team tent, relaxing and making fun of my TT time.
BNW: Well, next time we see you at a stage race, we'll join you and you can make fun of our TT times as well. Are there any requirements for being on the team?
NR: Aside from the small administrative type requirements, the main thing we ask of all our riders is to commit to at least a dozen races a year. With road racing options sometimes as frequent as 4 days a week in the summer months, as well as track, cyclocross and mountain, most of our team members find that a pretty easy requirement to meet. Other than that, we ask that our team members obey road rules whenever they're wearing their team clothing; represent, promote and speak of our sponsors the way [the sponsors] would want; and to get out there and enjoy riding their bikes as much as possible.
BNW: Aside from those requirements, what sorts of contributions to the team and/or community do you hope members will make?
NR: Quite a few of our members are active in giving back to their communities. Individually they volunteer with the Humane Society, Big Brothers of King County and one of our teammates serves on the board of the Cascade Bicycle Club, working to make this area better for all cyclists. We also maintain a section of Wolf Creek Road in Mazama, WA and Greg Carter runs the Pacific Northwest Sudoku development team.
BNW: Those are great ways to give back to the community. What were some of the highlights of the '07 racing season for your team?
NR: '07 was an awesome year for us. We had a ton of wins and top tens, but most of all, our own Nick Rhodes brought home the Cat. 3 Crit State Champ gold medal. Andrew Rosette blew away the competition and won the Cat. 3 epic sufferfest in Oregon, aka the Elkhorn Classic Stage Race. And Justin Vanhulle won the prestigious Tahuya-Seabeck-Tahuya Road Race.
BNW: Congratulations to them and the team! What are some of your goals for the '08 season?
NR: Our goals for '08 are to grow the team in all categories and build support for the new foundation of Cat. 1/2 racers we have developed.
BNW: Are there any riders in particular who made strong showings this season? Or that you expect to be forces in the local peltons next season?
NR: We had quite a few guys that had strong showings this year. Nick Rhodes put down some speed as a Crit machine, Andrew Rosette lived up to his nickname of "Goatboy" by being able to climb like a billy goat and "Sneaky" Pete Girard showed some real strength in the Cat. 3's along with the "Croatian Sensation" Carsten Belanich. In the Cat. 4's, Jim Johnson had some real strong showings and Dave Salo has molded himself into a TT machine.
BNW: Excellent. We're beginning to think your team is known for its sweet nicknames. Is there anything else you'd like to say about your team that wasn't covered here?
NR: Kent Smith owes us money.
BNW: Well, with any luck he'll read this.
Meet the Teams Profile # 4
Starbucks Cycling Team with Steve Zeliadt and Jill Talcott
Here we go with our fourth Meet the Teams Profile. This week we have another team that is planning to expand its roster for 2008. The Starbucks Cycling team is a small outfit whose title sponsor is well-known all over the planet. Their plans for expansion don't include estabishing satelite teams all over the globe, but they are adding a men's team for 2008, as well as a new co-title sponsor. Thier Meet the Team ride was this Saturday, September 29th. We were able to discuss Starbucks Cycling's 2007 season, and their goals for the future with team representatives Steve Zeliadt and Jill Talcott.
BicycleNorthWest: First, as team representatives, can you both tell us a bit about yourselves?
Steve Zeliadt: I've recently been bitten by the racing bug and I'm currently a Cat 4. I'm a researcher at the VA with ties to Fred Hutchinson and the UW, and I investigate the population costs and outcomes for all the things we're doing in the U.S. to control cancer. My partner and I don't have any kids, but we do have four nieces and nephews who live really close by. I'm always trying to get them come to watch races.
Jill Talcott: I've been racing for three years and leading the Starbucks Team for two. I race Cat 4 with eyes on the next level in the coming year. My day job that pays for all this bike racing is at Starbucks HQ as a beverages designer.
BNW: Can you talk a bit about your team in general?
JT: Team Starbucks is based in Seattle, yet also has racers that live in Olympia and Everett. Our team is focused on building a strong team through skill development, good team work, ethics and integrity, safety, strong team cohesion, commitment to our team and sport, and careful selection and nurturing of new teammates who share these core values.
Our title sponsor is Starbucks which is a really fun sponsor to race for. Everyone cheers you on like you're part of something greater than a local team. This year the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance is teaming up with us as a co-title sponsor. The SCCA is an amazing institution and racing with their name on our jerseys really inspires us to push to new levels.
BNW: Wow, that's great; racing for a cause. Is your team roster limited? How many new riders is your team hoping to recruit for '08?
SZ: The team is limited to about 20 women and 20 men. This is a smaller team than some in the area, and we do so to ensure that everyone is a key part of the team. The men's squad is new this year and started with a core group of seven guys that raced together a lot during 2007. We have already added to this core group with experienced racers as well as those new to bike racing. The response has been great for both the women's and men's squad and we will close our roster a couple days after our Meet the Team Ride on September 29th.
BNW: What do you think your team has to offer new riders and how do you support new riders? How about veteran riders?
JT: A strong sense of community, a commitment to racer skill development; and equally as important: Fun! Veteran riders that want to have enthusiastic teammates that truly understand teamwork will love their experience with Team Starbucks.
BNW: What do you think your team is best known for? Or, what would you like your team to be best known for?
JT: We are most certainly known for our commitment to racing as a team, friendly personalities and great attitudes.
BNW: What qualities are you looking for in new teammates?
SZ: Personality fit and commitment to training and racing as a team are the critical elements we look for in prospective teammates.
BNW: Are their any requirements for being on the team? i.e. Must riders do a certain number of races, or volunteer a certain number of hours?
JT: Yes, the requirement is 10 weekend races that are chosen by the team. Participation in weekend team rides, participate in team committees and volunteer at the team sponsored race.
BNW: Aside from those requirements, what sorts of contributions to the team and/or community do you hope members will make?
SZ: We will do a volunteer charity project as a team this year with the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance.
BNW: That's sounds like a great way to give back to your sponsor. What were some of the highlights of the '07 racing season for your team?
JT: We had a great time as a team. From the fun early season races in Sequim, to the fun road trips, to the Stage Races; the focused efforts and tons of laughs along the way made the victories even better. One of our teammates bagged three silver medals at the National Senior Olympics in Kentucky. And another teammate took two podium spots at Master's Nationals in track.
BNW: Those are some fantastic results. What are some of your goals for the '08 season?
JT: We want to add to our women's team's [2007] successes by developing some new racers and upgrade at least three more women during the [2008] season.
SZ: For the men's team we have similar goals, but our main focus is to build a cohesive team focused on great teamwork and rider development.
BNW: Are there any riders in particular who made strong showings this season? Or that you expect to be forces in the local peleton next season?
JT: Yes, definitely. The women's team had a strong showing in the results this rear. Zana Faulkner focused on upgrading and managed to maintain a steady head of steam throughout the season. She secured top ten GC placements in four major stage races, taking third in Montana's Tour of the Bitterroot, first in the Tour of the Methow and 2nd in the Nooksac Omnium. Her season was nicely rounded out by winning the Washington Velo Circuit Series and upgrading to category 3. Jane Chateaubriand was our ace on the track at a national level. Then she took 5th place in the women's 45+ 200 Meter Sprints [at Master's Naionals]. And in the women's 30+ Team Pursuit, she was part of a composite team that took the Bronze Medal. Additionally Jane took sixth place in the 500-Meter Time Trial. Not bad for her first trip to Nationals!
We also had Sile Kiernan and Barbara Wilkie compete in the National Senior Olympics in Kentucky this summer. Barbara earned Silver Medals in the 5k and 10 k Time Trials and Silver in the 20 k Road Race. Sile also had a strong showing with a sixth place in the 5k Time Trial and a fifth place in the 10 k Time Trial.
BNW: Well congratulations to both of you and your teammates on a great season, and thanks for taking the time to speak with BicycleNorthWest.
JT: Thank you.
SZ: Thank you.
Meet the Teams Profile #3
Wines of Washington/Union Bay Cycling
This week brings us two Meet the Teams profiles. Our first is one of Seattle's largest teams: Wines of Washington/Union Bay Cycling. They have over 100 members and field very strong men's and women's teams. Their women's team swept the Elite BARR competition and their men's team had fifteen riders move up within the cycling ranks in '07. BicycleNorthwest was able to talk to WoW/UBC's Joe Baratto and Gina Kavesh about their men's and women's teams, their '07 season, and what the future holds. The WoW/UBC ride is this Saturday, so be sure to go meet them in person!
BicycleNorthwest: First, can you tell a bit about yourselves?
Joe Baratto: I've been racing for 19 years, 2008 will be 20! I'm a Cat 1 currently (with no Pro contracts on the horizon). I run Union Bay Cycling a^?? with the help of an amazing group of people who Captain the various team. Gina heads up Elite Women's team, Michael Klisch heads up the Men's Cat 3, Michele Black and Shannon Payne head up the women's Development team and Duane Draper and Gordy Bolstad head up the Men's Development team. I Captain the Men's Elite Team. I work for The Boeing Commercial Airplane Company in the Materials Characterization Group in Seattle. I have twin girls who are 5 years old.
Gina Kavesh: I'm a Cat 2 racer who's probably been at it too long. I'm one of three women's captains for UBC. And since I have the biggest mouth and strongest opinions, many folks don't realize that there's actually a team helping coordinate the UBC women's team. As Joe mentioned, Michelle Black and Shannon Payne are instrumental in helping making our women's team what it is.
As for me personally, my brother and I own a small chain of western clothing retails stores. I'm the operations half, which is everything behind the scenes; i.e. all those people who get stock to the stores, get the merchandise shipped out the door, and the bills paid. I'm married; no kids, no pets. Between running a business, having fun and racing, life is pretty hectic.
BNW: Can you tell a bit about your team in general? Where it's based, who your main sponsors are, etc.?
JB: UBC was founded 11 years ago and is based in the Seattle area. We are primarily geared towards Road Racing. Though there are folks on the team who do track and cyclocross our main focus is the road. We are coed and pride ourselves on providing a really structured training and development program for new riders. Our Elite teams (1/2/3's) are typically individuals who started racing on UBC and a^??grew' up within the program. We also have amazing mentorship that's offered to help folks learn and achieve their cycling potential. Occasionally we get upper category folks joining, but in general it's usually from within.
GK: Our primary sponsor is Wines of Washington, which is all the wineries that make up the Tasting Room Cooperative in Post alley. Paul Beveridge and Lysle Wilhelmi (Wildridge Winery) are both racers and are both on the team as well. 2 Degrees (Slalom) Consulting joined in as a major sponsor last year; and Stoneshield, Paragon Fitness, Holcam, Shultzy's, and Bodybuilding.com all provide sponsorship support as well. Trek is our Bike sponsor, along with Ritchey, Bicycles West, and Bontrager.
BNW: Is your team roster limited? How many new riders is your team hoping to recruit for '08?
JB: Currently we have 75 men and 30 women split within the various teams. The largest groups are our development teams. We don't have a specific numbers of spots but for the past 5 years we've keep within five of the current numbers. Five to fifteen join and that many seem to leave. Most of those just find racing too demanding. It's a tough sport.
BNW: Indeed it is. Gina, how about for the women's side: what are your recruiting goals?
GK: On the women's side, have no limit to how many women we'll recruit for '08. We consider any year we get 10 or more new women a successful one. We are truly a team geared towards racing so typically we focus on recruiting women who have been riding their bikes for a couple of seasons versus gals who are new to the sport. We look for a bit of experience because our winter program is structured for base fitness and it's important to allow the new gals to succeed while riding with new and returning Cat 4/5 men and women.
BNW: What do you think your team has to offer new riders and how do you support new riders? How about veteran riders?
JB: Our team is set up to develop riders and support our Elite Programs. We have great development programs, weekend training plans, clinics, and team training camps to help new riders. They can go from Cat 5 to Cat 1. If they want to go Pro, they'll need to leave, but we'll help them as much as we can. We have a good group over the age of 50 so getting started later isn't a problem either. Just the need to get better is.
BNW: And on the women's side?
GK: Personally I think UBC offers a new rider the base structure that will allow someone to show up at their first race physically and mentally prepared for what their about to undertake. Our higher category riders take pride in mentoring and riding with new riders on a regular basis to help them develop the basic skills to race smart and safely. Our women also take great pride in helping each other develop their skills. Whether it be a new rider or a veteran rider, we all challenge each other to improve ourselves and our riding.
BNW: What do you think your team is best know for?
GK: Yikes, that's hard to say since I'm sort of in the forest. I think we're probably best known for a strong women's team that has many talented women, and that almost always races with team tactics and team goals in mind. I'd like to think we're also known for helping out the cycling community - especially growing women's racing - and being friendly gals who like to joke with the gals we compete with on a regular basis.
JB: I think the same goes for the men on our team. In general, I think our team is best known for being good people. We have a little internal motto: It's better to take good people who aren't good racers and make them better racers, then to take good racers who aren't good people and make them better people.
BNW: That's great. It's good to be surrounded by good people no matter what you're doing. So, with that in mind, what qualities are you looking for in new teammates?
GK: We're really looking at all aspects of an individual when she is joining the team. Since we are a coed team and our ride program is so structured, we typically expect a certain amount of base riding skill and fitness so that she isn't discouraged by being dropped or left off the back. However the most talented or strong person who doesn't buy into the team perspective or team personality is probably not a good fit for us. Cycling is often a "me" oriented sport and there are folks who understand the concept of team but maybe the reality doesn't fit their personality. So it's really a balance of everything so that whoever joins finds folks that they enjoy being with. I usually tell folks to ride with us 3 or 4 times before deciding so that they've had a chance to get to know a few of us. Then they can make sure that they like us enough to still be laughing with us at the end of a wet and miserable four-hour January ride.
BNW: You do need a good sense of humor to endure those early season rides. Are their any requirements for being on the team?
GK: We do require new riders to attend two skill clinics - one in the late fall and one in late winter. We also have an expectation that riders will help with our team's races. Otherwise it's up to them as to what they want to put into the team. Since our ride program is so structured folks who opt to not ride regularly with the team will likely find themselves struggling as the off season progresses and the miles and intensity go up. But that's an individual choice as to how many team rides they want to do.
BNW: Aside from those requirements, what sorts of contributions to the team do you hope members will make?
JB: Many of us have been very lucky to have met and been mentored by folks over the years who taught us to give back to the cycling community. We really try to keep the sport moving forward and growing. And so this is a message we as a team try to instill in all our riders. When the call for volunteers goes out for help with a cycling related task, it's pretty common that we see more hands than we need to help out.
GK: For example, WoW women can be seen helping at the Women's PR (Pacific Raceways) series, Women's meet the team clinics and rides, assorted fundraising bike rides and occasional WSBA jobs that need a volunteer or two.
BNW: What were some of the highlights of the '07 racing season for your team?
JB: We had a super year. Too much to list. We pride ourselves on the team achievements - Our Elite Men's team won the Washington cup series with Jamie Stangeland, and our Women's Elite team was super all year long winning from March to August. We also had 15 upgrades within the categories, which is a big goal.
GK: Yeah, it was the same with the women's team: everyone on the team contributed to the results and highlights throughout the year. Which ultimately resulted in the Team BARR and a 1/2/3 Wine sweep of the individual BARR, as well as Winning the Washington Cup competition.
BNW: What are some of your goals for the '08 season?
JB: We'll continue on the same path of constantly improving. We'll have better programs, better racers, and even better results!
GK: And to continue having fun while competing.
BNW: That is likely the most important part of bike racing in our minds. Are there any riders in paticular who made strong showings this season? Or that you expect to be forces in the local peletons next season?
JB: The whole team!
BNW: Yikes! Look out! Gina, how about for the women?
GK: Well, I know there are a number of gals who have upgraded at the end of '07, so the peleton in '08 has a number of new faces for us to contend with. Who will be a player next year is always hard to say but it's safe to say that women's 1/2/3 racing next year will likely go up another notch in speed, team tactics and quality of racing.
BNW: Sounds exciting. Is there anything else you'd like to say about your team that wasn't covered here?
GK: For both men and women, our fall/winter training ride structure really hasn't been touched up on and that's really what I consider the biggest feature of UBC. We are just putting the finishing touches on what rides we'll be doing (routes, pace, intensity etc) for the entire Fall/Winter time frame which will be published to our members in about 2 weeks. With the schedule set it allows individuals to plan there overall off season training knowing what their weekend of riding will look like way in advance. I think it's this structure and planning which results in us having an average of 20-40 folks riding each weekend day throughout the winter. So there's always a wheel to hide behind and always a wheel that's a bit stronger for you to chase.
Meet the Teams Profile #2
Team Fanatik (Bellingham)
Team Fanatik has been in the peloton for a year now and mostly focuses on Masters racing. And as is the team, most of its riders are new to the sport. But despite their neophyte status, Team Fanatik had a lot of success in various Master's categories. For next year, the team is looking to expand their roster and their scope as they break into the Senior categories. Team Representative and Masters A rider Stewart Bowmer spent some time with us about his team, the '07 season and Team Fanatik's plans for '08.
BicycleNorthwest: First as team representative, can you tell a bit about yourself?
Steve Bowmer: I'm 38 and have been racing now for 3 years. Before then I did ultra runs. I just upgraded to Cat 2 so I can race Master A's and also help out where I can in the 1/2 races. I would say I'm the manager, director, go to guy for the Fanatik race team, but am looking forward to handing down responsibility to others. I have my own gardening business called Stewbees Private Gardening. This gives me the flexibility to drop my kids off at school and take them to their different activities. I have 2 children, son that is nine and a daughter that is almost seven. This past year the family saw their mom, race among the Cat 4 and Master B women. She had a great time and did well for her first year.
BNW: That's great that the whole family is involved. Can you tell a bit about your team in general?
SB: The team consists of mostly Masters riders but we do have a few that race in the category races as well. We decided it was time to put together a local team since we rode, trained, and carpooled together to races. Last year Fanatik Bike Co., based here in Bellingham, made my job of acquiring sponsors easy. They were our only sponsor and helped us out tremendously.
The past few months I have worked to attract a few more sponsors: The Mt. Bakery which Olivier Vrambout owns; also in Bellingham. He is an avid cyclists and a race team member from last year. He did well at Mt. Hood and other races. Also, we have Fairhaven Fitness of which the owners are avid riders as well. We are looking at having regular indoor training seasons for members and also have them open to the public.
BNW: Is your team roster limited? How many new riders is your team hoping to recruit for '08?
SB: Our team roster is somewhat limited to how many can be on the race team and receive the benefits from Fanatik. But the opportunity exists among the club side to be on the race team and get other benefits as well. For 2008 we are hoping to recruit more women, realistically 3-5 would be great. We are looking to have some Cat 2's and 3's come on board. And also we are looking to grow a Juniors team.
BNW: That's great. What do you think your team has to offer new riders and how do you support new riders? How about veteran riders?
SB: Our roster has a good range of veterans new people who are new to the sport. New riders will have the opportunity to be part of a local race team and participate in team building events like team rides and indoor training sessions. We're also working on putting together an extended training weekend where we will bring in outside help to set up training programs and to give insight on nutrition and team tactics. The team is mostly people racing in the Masters fields, so this will give veterans a strong team to race with.
BNW: Excellent. Any Northwest ride can appreciate indoor training with friends. So your team is relatively new to the scene, but after one season, what do you think your team is best know for?
SB: I remember teams commenting on the tactics the Master D riders used at Longbranch. At that race we really dominated the field and played our tactics perfectly, getting 1st, 3rd and 4th. That's what I would like the team to be known for. And also have the team name matter more in results than getting a certain person to the podium. So basically, as we grow, I'd like us to be known for our teamwork.
BNW: Well that leads into our next question quite nicely: What qualities are you looking for in new teammates?
SB: We are looking for local riders from Whatcom and Skagit counties, and even Canada. On top of that, we're really looking for riders that like the camaraderie of a team sport, are open to new ideas, are willing work for and help teammates in races, and have enthusiasm for cycling.
BNW: Are their any requirements for being on the team?
SB: There are requirements for members. We have a club aspect of the team where members receive benefits but need to volunteer locally. Race members that receive full benefits need to do a certain number of races, volunteer, show up for team rides, etc.
BNW: Aside from those requirements, what sorts of contributions to the team and/or community do you hope members will make?
SB: I hope this will give the exposure to the community to broaden the sport and to allow an avenue for Juniors to get involved in some sort of cycling discipline. I also hope members will form strong bonds with each other to help one another on and off the bike. With the community volunteer requirement I believe this will help members appreciate what it takes to put on races and the joy of watching the race happen in front of them.
BNW: What were some of the highlights of the '07 racing season for your team?
SB: Having Bryce Fegley win the Methow Valley SR was exciting for the team. Also the team winning the Master's C and D State Road Race. The State team time trial was very nice too: Our Cat 4 team took 1st, the Master B's 2nd, Master C's 3, and the Master D's 2nd. That was a great day for Fanatik. For myself it was watching Celeo Guifarro win the Cat 4 Enumclaw crit. He made it look so easy. For me it was winning Boston Harbor circuit race in the Master A/B's.
BNW: Sounds like Team Fanatik has a great foundation to build on. What are some of the team's goals for the '08 season?
SB: For our team I would like to dominate most of the categories at the State Team Time Trial. But more importantly I want the team to focus on helping each other out at races; to build upon team tactics. We are a young team and have much to learn.
BNW: Are there any riders in particular who made strong showings this season? Or that you expect to be forces in the local peletons next season?
SB: Rob Campbell dominated the Master C races that he was able to participate in. It will be very interesting to see how he does in the Cat 3's and Master B's. Our Master D field also did great, Rich Williamson and John Kodin helped each other throughout the season. Bryce Fegley also had a great season placing well in all of his races. He's moving up to Cat 2 for next year and I think he will do great.
BNW: Is there anything else you'd like to say about your team that wasn't covered here?
SB: Yes, I would like to thank the members of the team that joined last year. This is a new team and we had some hurdles to jump over, but I think everyone is excited for next year. Everyone Was excited to have a local team and I'm glad they hung in there. Also I want to thank BicycleNorthwest for putting a great web site together.
BNW: Thanks! We're doing our best.
Team Zoka/Cucina Fresca with Travis Dykstra
(try saying that five times fast)
This week's first team is Team Zoka/Cucina Fresca which is also know around town as Seattle Super Squara, or S3. This team held their ride this past Saturday, but if you want to learn more about Team Zoka/Cucina Fresca, read on. BicycleNorthwest had the privilege of chatting with the team's president, and Cat. 2 roadie, Travis Dykstra.
BicycleNorthwest: Hello Travis. First, can you tell a bit about yourself?
Travis Dykstra: Sure, I'm 36 years old and currently a Cat 2 focused primarily on Road Racing. I've been with Seattle Super Squadra and Team Zoka/Cucina Fresca for four years now and have recently been given the privilege of leading this incredible team. In my "real" life I'm a husband and father and work as a Program Manager for Soundair Design and Development Group out of Snohomish.
BNW: It sounds like you're a busy guy. Can you tell a bit about your team in general?
TD:Seattle Super Squadra (S3) is actually the result of a merger of two USCF clubs, Super Squadra Sports and Seattle Velo, and we're based in Bellevue. Both clubs have had a long history in the northwest racing scene and we've developed a number of strong local and national racers over the years. We cover all aspects of cycling, from road and track, to Mountain, Cross, and Triathlons.
As for sponsors, S3 has had a number of title sponsors in the past. But most recently, Zoka Coffee and Tea Company has been our title sponsor for the past 3 years. This year, we've worked out a 3 year title sponsorship deal with Cucina Fresca. As of Jan 1st, 2008 we'll officially become Team Cucina Fresca.
BNW: That's great. So S3 isn't going anywhere anytime soon. So, Is your team roster limited to a certain number of racers?
TD: Not really. We're very cautious about setting a limit on the number of team members we'll accept. There may be a lot of riders out there that possess the qualities we want on our team and we'd hate to turn them away because of a random number. We had over 50 people show up to our Meet the Team Ride for '08 on Saturday and I met quite a few of them that I'd like to race with.
BNW: Wow, that's an amazing turnout! With that in mind, what do you think your team has to offer new riders, and how do you support new riders? How about veteran riders?
TD: We've worked really hard over the past couple of years to develop a training program to support our new riders. In 2005, we approached Craig Undem of Cycle University to help us develop a Team Training Program to develop new riders. The program is administered online through Training Peaks and is focused primarily on instilling good daily training habits though cycling, cross training and weight lifting workouts. The program also includes quarterly testing sessions using compu-trainers to gauge our members' power and heart rate numbers. In addition, we rely heavily on our veterans to help develop our inexperienced riders which also is a great way to keep the team culture alive. Our veterans not only offer advice but have offered their equipment as well.
BNW: That sounds like on excellent support system for new riders. What do you think your team is best known for in the local cycling community and the community in general?
TD: Zoka was a great sponsorship because it gave us the signature brown and blue uniforms over the past three years, which really made us stick out. But maybe more importantly, it gave the team something to rally behind. Our team members really fell in love with this uniform and enjoyed defending it. That sense of ownership and willingness to work together transformed into a team culture has been noticed in both the racing community and general public. I personally couldn't ask for better group of guys to ride and race with and look forward to continuing to nurturing that team attitude in the future.
BNW: What qualities are you looking for in new teammates?
TD: While we are always searching for talented and strong riders, most importantly we're looking for team oriented members that don't take themselves too seriously. We've worked really hard to develop the culture of "working hard and having fun together" on this team and have tried to keep away from being viewed as elitists or being focused primarily on individual results.
BNW: Are their any requirements for being on the team?
TD: Great question... We have two main requirements for those interested in joining our team: one is the desire to race. We require all our members to race at least 5 weekend races a year to maintain their active membership. And the other is the desire to volunteer. Our team prides itself on being good ambassadors of the cycling community, whether is picking up trash on the I-90 bridge path, teaching basic bike skills to children, or volunteering time at local races and rides. Each team member is required to volunteer at least twice a year and many often volunteer more.
BNW: That is really great that member get so involved in the community. What sorts of contributions to the team do you hope members will make above and beyond those requirements?
TD: I love seeing teammates that make a difference in the community. In 2007, Team Zoka had a few members that made a really big difference in the community. Greg Fazzio, for example: Here's a hard working family man that donated his personal time to work with the community to acquire bikes for Washington State's Special Olympians to use in the annual Special Olympics.
Then there is Chrisine Estrada, our Women's Team Leader. She volunteered as the sponsorship director for the Washington State Women's Race Series. Washington is working hard to promote women in the sport of cycling and we are excited to have a member of our team involved.
And I also want to mention Ian Mullins. This guy donates his time to local kids during the summer and has various teammates come in to give the kids a little lesson in bike riding at Kids Co. in Seattle.
BNW: It must be nice to see team members so active and helpful to their communities. Let's get to racing for a moment. What were some of the highlights of the '07 racing season for your team?
TD: We had some great highlights in 2007: Our women's team went from 3 members to 20 last fall, and we were very excited to get more women interested in the sport. We're hoping that this year brings even more. We were also able to bring our 1st Junior onto the team, Derek Titus on board. This kid went from getting dropped at Seward Park last year to a Cat 3 this year. And he is shooting for nationals in '08
Paul Boivin started off the season by winning the Cat 3 Mason Lake Series in March, and Bill Zimmerman took the Masters Lake Washington Velo Series win in August. Brian Gore took Washington State's Master's C BARR Title; that couldn't have happened to a better guy. It was really amazing how our master's team rallied around Brian to win that title.
Cole Meckle, Derek Titus, Matt Stanigar and Michael Peters Sweeping the Seward Park Season Series in the 5:30 race was a great highlight for '07. And of course, a number of individual wins and podiums throughout the year were great highlights as well.
BNW: Well congradulations on a very successful season. What are some of your goals for the '08 season?
TD: Thank you. We have a couple of goals for '08. We want to continue to build our men's and women's upper category teams: the ones and twos. Our hope is to develop from within but we're open to bringing in the experienced riders provided they're a good fit. Also, we want to do more team focused events. The past two years we picked a stage race out of town that the team focused on and subsidized lodging on to increase participation. It's been such a hit, we're budgeting for 3 events for 2008.
BNW: Very nice. Well, are there any riders in paticular who made strong showings this season, or that you expect to be forces in the local peletons next season?
TD: Definitely. We have several. Jason Williams is our strongest guy on the team. He moved to Cat 2 in March and is already garnering attention in the Pro 1/2 peleton. Chris Hill is the most recent addition to our Cat 1/2 team, we're looking forward to seeing some results from him in Cross and Road next year. There's also Cole Meckle; half way through his first season and he's already a Cat 3. Look for him to continue to climb the ranks in '08 And them of course, there's Derek Titus; Cat 3 in his first season and he's working with Cycle U to prepare for Junior Nationals next July, so watch out!
BNW: Well we look forwards to seeing those riders out there next year. Thanks a lot for chatting with us today Travis, and good luck with the team next year.
TD: No problem. Thank you.
