Heyooo! The Tour de l’Alberta was another success, despite the eclectic mix of weather conditions (from blustery rain all the way to blue skies and warmth) which saw at least a dozen ERTC members come out and enjoy the day, with many of them accomplishing their longest distances on a bike ever! The conditions were challenging so to everyone who did it, you’ve done an amazing job!
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/
RubberSide Cycling - (Women’s, Beginner to Advanced, Skills Training) https://www.facebook.com/events/912916905735058/
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) - more details TBD
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 Centroand 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