The first week of October is indeed an exciting week for cycling. No October in Otago does not herald the begining of a beer festival, actually quite the opposite with all the unruly students finally retreating to various libraries in an attempt to cram a years work in several weeks. However I digress. This week will host several exciting events.
On Wednesday the highly anticipated return of the Sams ride will determine who has managed to maintain some form over the cold winter months. It is thought the inauggral 25km hammer session will determine who's egos have been writing checks there bodies cannot afford. Several riders worth looking out for are Shane "Kauri Legs" Melrose and Alex "Napolean Dynamite" Magreggor who will be out to prove themselves after signing with two prestiguos southland teams. Also watch out for Johnathon "Hurricane" Stockwell who is rumoured to have the best form of his life after a secret training camp in New Caledonia. In the final few kilometres riders like Joel Davies, Paul Goff and Ashley Whitehead (who has recently discovered his sprinting legs) are expected to become prominent.
On Saturday Otago will crown several new individual time trial club champions. The individual time trial is said to be the race of truth were the bluffers are revealed and the hard men (and women) shine. The time trials will be held over the tough 20km outram course with races varying from 20 -40 km. Alex Magreggor is expected to shine in this event while others including Barret Wilson, Jeff Notman, Gary Alpress and Kathryn Jones are all expected to put in solid appearances. However it is rumoured several riders will miss this event with the intention of saving themselves for a tough race on sunday -or maybe they are just afraid of being unmasked as the bluffers they are.
The real test will be on Sunday where riders will face the gruelling Goodwood Circuit. The Goodwood Circuit will once again be the battleground for all those wishing to be named as Otagos 2008 club road champions. Last years pacuors were so tough that of the 10 who started the mens road race, only 3 finished. Johnathon Stockwell hopes that his traditional approach to training will enable him to defend his u23 and overall title successfully. Runner up Tony Hogg was unavailble to comment but is rumoured to have quit road racing and have put his bike on trademe after being passed in the last lap of the '07 edition by Stockwell. The course is thought to favour a power sprinter but often it simply becomes a race of attrition. In the womens race the usual suspects Caroline, Sara Macdonald and Kathryn Jones to tear each other to shreds.
This is Paul Sherwin bringing you the lastet in otago cycling. Goodnight and stay classy Otago
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Photo Of The Week
New Zealand's oldest race, the peleton winds its way to Timaru
In this photo; "B graders" Joel Davies, Katri Lake (1st women) and Paul Whitley (1st B grade)
Monday, August 25, 2008
Successful Weekend for Otago
This weekend saw success in Timaru and Christchurch for many Otago riders. The one day tour of Timaru saw Alex McGregor, Shane Melrose, Stu Thomas and Joel Davies take stage wins in the A & B grades. Melrose and Davies also won their respective grades.
Sunday saw the 6th round of the Benchmark series run in the usual weather conditions of rain and cool temperatures. The race featured 9 sections of unsealed road which proved to be very decisive in shelling many of the weaker riders. Melrose was looking very strong throughout and was the unfortunate victim of an attack by Shane Archibald when he dropped back to the team van for feeding. Archibald got a minute and a half up the road leading into the finishing circuits. Melrose attacked the bunch to take second place. Alex Daniels finished in a strong 14th place in the bunch finish to help take the team prize. This proved to be the most successful race of the series yet, with the team looking for strong performances at the last two races.
Sunday saw the 6th round of the Benchmark series run in the usual weather conditions of rain and cool temperatures. The race featured 9 sections of unsealed road which proved to be very decisive in shelling many of the weaker riders. Melrose was looking very strong throughout and was the unfortunate victim of an attack by Shane Archibald when he dropped back to the team van for feeding. Archibald got a minute and a half up the road leading into the finishing circuits. Melrose attacked the bunch to take second place. Alex Daniels finished in a strong 14th place in the bunch finish to help take the team prize. This proved to be the most successful race of the series yet, with the team looking for strong performances at the last two races.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Woodside Block
On Saturday 9th August 15 riders turned up for 6 laps of the Woodside Block. Hype for this race had been minimal with rain for the past 3 weeks training had been interupted for some but others used it to their advantage to catch up with some secret training. Rumours from inside the peloton suggest Melrose ran Joel Davies through his final preperations with a Double Dip on thursday night. We can confirm this consisted of a hilltop ride to Portobello followed by a quick trip home for some toast then off to the Browns Bunch ride whicj includes sprints. Davies claimed "I havnt been training Im not sure im racing this weekend". Others who busted out training in atrocious conditions included Glen Chadwick, Paolo Bettini and Alejandro Valverde, Chaddy had this to say:
"Well a real cruisey day for me today at the office. Got up and did the usual morning prep. Headed out for a ride and caught up my old buddies out on the road (Paolo [Bettini] and Alejandro [Valverde], Alberto [Contador]). They said "Ciao Chady, good to see you again." I replied "Sure guys likewise, but just remember tomorrow we can't be friends for a few hours OK?" They were a little disappointed but they'll get over it"
Extrapt taken from http://www.cyclingnews.com/road/2008/olympics08/glen.php?id=/riders/2008/diaries/glen/glen0814
Meanwhile in the race several riders were trying hard to break the peloton. Melrose, Mike Lormans and Peter Oakdon all tried hard but Alex Macreger and David Ayre were backing their sprints and chased everything down to keep the peleton togather. Meanwhile Shane Melrose was quietly plotting his move surging when he came to the front for the win.
Next week Gore!
Training must increase 2 fold
"Well a real cruisey day for me today at the office. Got up and did the usual morning prep. Headed out for a ride and caught up my old buddies out on the road (Paolo [Bettini] and Alejandro [Valverde], Alberto [Contador]). They said "Ciao Chady, good to see you again." I replied "Sure guys likewise, but just remember tomorrow we can't be friends for a few hours OK?" They were a little disappointed but they'll get over it"
Extrapt taken from http://www.cyclingnews.com/road/2008/olympics08/glen.php?id=/riders/2008/diaries/glen/glen0814
Meanwhile in the race several riders were trying hard to break the peloton. Melrose, Mike Lormans and Peter Oakdon all tried hard but Alex Macreger and David Ayre were backing their sprints and chased everything down to keep the peleton togather. Meanwhile Shane Melrose was quietly plotting his move surging when he came to the front for the win.
Next week Gore!
Training must increase 2 fold
Friday, July 25, 2008
Ralston Memorial
This weekends race looks to be hotly contested with riders coming from Timaru, Christchurch, Invercargil and Dunedin. This may be due to the $1000 prize money and a prestigious trophy up for grabs. The Ralston Memorial also heralds the return of the Batwing Fairweather to racing after being overtaken by Shane Melrose in the points table. However, the big names don't stop there! Shane Archibald, Dan Barry, Jerard Stock, Geoff Keogh, Ashley Whitehead, Alex Daniels and Jeff Notman. Its shaping up to be an exciting race over a rolling parcours with a 2km climb to a hill top finish.
Will Melrose and Batwing use their turn of speed to hurt the bunch on the flat or will the climbers such as Whitehead, Daniels and Notman come to the fore? Other danger men in the form of break and second break include Chris Henderson and Steve Havard. With scratch performing strongly last weekend there has been speculation that they may be handicapped out of the race.
The legend that is Ashley Whitehead is yet confirm his appearance. However, he has been spotted by our informants doing multiple laps of Three Mile Hill in anticipation of this weekends hit out. As for his excuse of "I haven't been training lately" we say: what a crook of shit!
David Ayre and Hurricane Stockwell will surely hurt their chances of victory by riding the approximate 100km distance to the race start tomorrow. Stockwell has been telling anyone who will listen "I need more miles". But this close to the race will it help the Hurricane destroy the field, I think not. Ayre is just trying to stoke his ego and prove that he can do it all.
As yet there has been no word as to whether the infamous Anonymous will be riding. Many riders are anticipating a heated battle with this particularly tough opponent! Will he let his legs do the talking or will the win escape his grasp? Only time will tell if he is up to the task.
Now for the greatly anticipated TAB Odds:
Shane Melrose: $0.90 - after last weeks effort the TAB need to recuperate their loss
Shane Archibald: $1.05 - can anyone beat this man?
Ashley Whitehead: $1.40 - your secret training is going to pay off
Geoff Keogh: $1.80 - Oyago's most consistent rider year in year out
Hurricane Stockwell: $2.05 - look out boys here comes the Hurricane
Batwing Fairweather: $3.50 - no sitting on for the sprint today Jimmy
David Ayre: $ 4.70 - will your ego hold out... probably not
Bank Guy: $12.00 - will be in the hunt after being rolled last weekend be Melrose
Joel Davies: $56.90 - your looking at some good pack filler, but not much else
Will Melrose and Batwing use their turn of speed to hurt the bunch on the flat or will the climbers such as Whitehead, Daniels and Notman come to the fore? Other danger men in the form of break and second break include Chris Henderson and Steve Havard. With scratch performing strongly last weekend there has been speculation that they may be handicapped out of the race.
The legend that is Ashley Whitehead is yet confirm his appearance. However, he has been spotted by our informants doing multiple laps of Three Mile Hill in anticipation of this weekends hit out. As for his excuse of "I haven't been training lately" we say: what a crook of shit!
David Ayre and Hurricane Stockwell will surely hurt their chances of victory by riding the approximate 100km distance to the race start tomorrow. Stockwell has been telling anyone who will listen "I need more miles". But this close to the race will it help the Hurricane destroy the field, I think not. Ayre is just trying to stoke his ego and prove that he can do it all.
As yet there has been no word as to whether the infamous Anonymous will be riding. Many riders are anticipating a heated battle with this particularly tough opponent! Will he let his legs do the talking or will the win escape his grasp? Only time will tell if he is up to the task.
Now for the greatly anticipated TAB Odds:
Shane Melrose: $0.90 - after last weeks effort the TAB need to recuperate their loss
Shane Archibald: $1.05 - can anyone beat this man?
Ashley Whitehead: $1.40 - your secret training is going to pay off
Geoff Keogh: $1.80 - Oyago's most consistent rider year in year out
Hurricane Stockwell: $2.05 - look out boys here comes the Hurricane
Batwing Fairweather: $3.50 - no sitting on for the sprint today Jimmy
David Ayre: $ 4.70 - will your ego hold out... probably not
Bank Guy: $12.00 - will be in the hunt after being rolled last weekend be Melrose
Joel Davies: $56.90 - your looking at some good pack filler, but not much else
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Quote Of The Day
"Think of it boys, one week from now we'll be drunk..." -(Kiwi Guy) aka Julian Dean at the end of Stage 15 of the Tour de France http://www.bicycling.com/article/0,6610,s-1-523-17635-1,00.html
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Midway 100km Premier Road Race
Saturday 15th November 2008 - $3000 Cash Prize Pool
· Cat 1 First Place $500
· Cat 2 First Place $300
· Cat 3 First Place $200
All categories paying to 6th place
$25 entry fee
Entries to Mike Lormans by 12th November mikeandadele@xtra.co.nz
Race course: Start Green Island- Taieri Mouth - Waihola- Berwick- Woodside- Outram- Tirohonga Road- Tip Corner- Finish Factory Road Mosgiel
Report: Opposite Tip Entrance, Brighton Road Green Island 11.30 am sharp
Disgruntled Membership, Inappropriate Use of Karma?
It has come to our attention that the clearly tounge in cheek nature of this website is lost on some members of the cycling community. It has been suggested that if you object to the views on the website don't visit it. However this logic may have been lost on some people.
Perhaps the disgruntled members of Cycling Otago can use their legs to do the talking and silence the critics?
Perhaps the disgruntled members of Cycling Otago can use their legs to do the talking and silence the critics?
Monday, July 21, 2008
Greenall Memorial -Melrose Strikes Back
The Greenall Memorial was contested by a small but hardy few who battled it out on wind and rain swept roads on saturday. The Greenall Memorial celebrates the short but prosperous life of Brian Greenall (1956 - 1975). The main challenge of the day was two asscents of the Berrick hill but difficult conditions and the handicap nature of the race insured that the pace was on from the gun.
First to start was the limit bunch which was made up of Tony Gamble, Graeme Gliddon, Carl Larson, Jan Brosnahan and Colin Tye. A whopping 32 minutes later the scratch bunch wqas released (which consisted of Ashley Whitehead, David Ayre, Paul Whitley and Shane Melrose). Right from the start Melrose and Whitley tapped out a blistering pace enabled Scratch to catch break before break had even completed half a lap of the Berrick Circuit. A brisk pace and a strong crosswind left the break (and at times scratch) riders hanging onto the back of the bunch. As the bunch rounded the top corner, karma (in the form of Steve Harvard) took care of all the riders who had been sitting on when Harvard crashed in front of them.
Scratch continued to reel in and spit out riders as they proceeded round the course untill only limit lay between them and line honours. With 20km to go the time gap was 9 minutes and scratches case seemed hopeless but a redoubled effort saw the gap begin to close along with all but Melrose, Whitehead and Ayre falling off the pace. Melrose tried several ill fated attacks through the outram ups and downs but after 70km of hard racing was in no condition to stay away.
With 5km to go, scratch was still 2:10 behind but could now see the limit riders battling the headwind up the road. As scratch turned into final straight limit still seemed just out of reach but a suicidle leadout from Ayre saw the gap closed with 100m to go leaving the sprinters to battle for line honours. Melrose quickly discovered he was the only sprinter left and took the win followed by Whitehead and Ayre in a distant second and third place.
In other news the TAB is considering going into receivership after "rediculous odds" saw all betters backing Melrose and the TAB posting a huge loss. More infomation on how much share and debenture holders can expect to recover will be released in the next few months. When asked if the TAB's predicermint was a symptom of the global credit crunch which has already seen 23 major credit companies go into receivership, a TAB spokesperson said "of course not, it was merely a case of the TAB offering rediculous odds. Only an idiot would have bet against Melrose when the odds were 9 to 1!"
First to start was the limit bunch which was made up of Tony Gamble, Graeme Gliddon, Carl Larson, Jan Brosnahan and Colin Tye. A whopping 32 minutes later the scratch bunch wqas released (which consisted of Ashley Whitehead, David Ayre, Paul Whitley and Shane Melrose). Right from the start Melrose and Whitley tapped out a blistering pace enabled Scratch to catch break before break had even completed half a lap of the Berrick Circuit. A brisk pace and a strong crosswind left the break (and at times scratch) riders hanging onto the back of the bunch. As the bunch rounded the top corner, karma (in the form of Steve Harvard) took care of all the riders who had been sitting on when Harvard crashed in front of them.
Scratch continued to reel in and spit out riders as they proceeded round the course untill only limit lay between them and line honours. With 20km to go the time gap was 9 minutes and scratches case seemed hopeless but a redoubled effort saw the gap begin to close along with all but Melrose, Whitehead and Ayre falling off the pace. Melrose tried several ill fated attacks through the outram ups and downs but after 70km of hard racing was in no condition to stay away.
With 5km to go, scratch was still 2:10 behind but could now see the limit riders battling the headwind up the road. As scratch turned into final straight limit still seemed just out of reach but a suicidle leadout from Ayre saw the gap closed with 100m to go leaving the sprinters to battle for line honours. Melrose quickly discovered he was the only sprinter left and took the win followed by Whitehead and Ayre in a distant second and third place.
In other news the TAB is considering going into receivership after "rediculous odds" saw all betters backing Melrose and the TAB posting a huge loss. More infomation on how much share and debenture holders can expect to recover will be released in the next few months. When asked if the TAB's predicermint was a symptom of the global credit crunch which has already seen 23 major credit companies go into receivership, a TAB spokesperson said "of course not, it was merely a case of the TAB offering rediculous odds. Only an idiot would have bet against Melrose when the odds were 9 to 1!"
The Lone Scratcher
Rumors are amidst the the Local cycling community that Shane Melrose will be the Lone Scratch Rider at this weekends Ralston Memorial Handicap Race,with Kauri Legs Melrose demoralising the local cyclists yet again at the past weekends handicap race out on the Taieri and storming into the points lead of the Overall points Champion.
Recent performances that can only be described as "individual" this recent turn of form has seemingly started after a recent trip to "the doctor" after suspected broken ribs forcing the early retirement of a downhill MTB career.
Steve Havard was heard to say after a recent "teams time trial " in Invercargill that "Kauri Legs should have just ridden by himself ."
Critics have suggested that only the same people are being mentioned on this website, however all forms of media only focus on the winners, something that is becoming all too apparent in our Local Newspaper with the report from the weekend being ommited.
Embarrasing is how Shane Melrose is describing all the positive press he has recieved lately, with his work mates now questioning him how much he is paying the newspaper reporter, "i just wish everyone else would put the training and dedication into this sport that I do" says a shy Melrose.
Of his co markers at the weekend David Air was the only one to match his speed and strength, Ash did well to hang on after a full 5 days training and the leg wax from hell.
I am looking forward to the return of a resting Geoff Keogh says Kauri who I heard has actually been seen out tearing up the MTB trails and himself (ed).
With the weekends race just days away there is still a chance for competitors to actually get up off the couch and do some training.....you know who you are......Joel, Johnny.
Or does it seem this Local Champion is unstoppable, I think not... recent performances from Jeff Notman have been extremely promising and with a hill to finish this weekend...look out.
Brendan Hastie a new name to grace these pages but spotted on his new bike just today putting in the milage.
So the scene is set, the handicapper is ready, and good luck on your own Shane, Scratch will be lonely.... but think of it as a privilage.
Recent performances that can only be described as "individual" this recent turn of form has seemingly started after a recent trip to "the doctor" after suspected broken ribs forcing the early retirement of a downhill MTB career.
Steve Havard was heard to say after a recent "teams time trial " in Invercargill that "Kauri Legs should have just ridden by himself ."
Critics have suggested that only the same people are being mentioned on this website, however all forms of media only focus on the winners, something that is becoming all too apparent in our Local Newspaper with the report from the weekend being ommited.
Embarrasing is how Shane Melrose is describing all the positive press he has recieved lately, with his work mates now questioning him how much he is paying the newspaper reporter, "i just wish everyone else would put the training and dedication into this sport that I do" says a shy Melrose.
Of his co markers at the weekend David Air was the only one to match his speed and strength, Ash did well to hang on after a full 5 days training and the leg wax from hell.
I am looking forward to the return of a resting Geoff Keogh says Kauri who I heard has actually been seen out tearing up the MTB trails and himself (ed).
With the weekends race just days away there is still a chance for competitors to actually get up off the couch and do some training.....you know who you are......Joel, Johnny.
Or does it seem this Local Champion is unstoppable, I think not... recent performances from Jeff Notman have been extremely promising and with a hill to finish this weekend...look out.
Brendan Hastie a new name to grace these pages but spotted on his new bike just today putting in the milage.
So the scene is set, the handicapper is ready, and good luck on your own Shane, Scratch will be lonely.... but think of it as a privilage.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
The Royal
Only 11 riders lined up for the A grade 70km race on Sunday with many riders choosing the soft B grade option. Shane Archibold gave the A grade field the Tony Veitch treatment winning the sprint prime, Hill climb and overall race. Jeff “Schleck” Notman showed he was the Otago rider on the rise cresting the climb second and finishing third overall.
The pace was fast from the start with many attacks along SH1. Joel Davies was the first to pop after forgetting to eat his sizzler sausages within the first 20km.
Johnny Stockwell made a smart move at Waihola attacking before the corner to try and take the sprint prime before the climb, Shane “Brochard” Archibold wasn’t standing for it though, he chased Stockwell and took the Sprint before ascending the Col de Waihola category one climb to take the KOM prime. Jeff “Schleck” Notman was second over the hill with David “Ricco” Ayre chasing in third. These three came together at the bottom and lapped it out to the finish. Jeff Notman lead out the sprint from 1000m out swinging off with 500m to go leaving David Ayre and Shane Archibald to go head to head for the win. Archibald took the win with Ayre in a disappointing and demoralizing second.
Shane Melrose finished an average 4th placing, Pete Oakden came in solo for 5th. There was controversy in the judging of 6th place when three riders tried to finish tied for 6th place, these riders were quickly disqualified by the fun police and whipped into submission.
Steve Harvard robber the B grade over A/B grader Chris Harvey who should haven known better.
TAB Odds for next weeks Greenall race:
Fastest time-
Whitley $1.85
Henderson $2.20
Melrose $9.00
Evans $500.00
Nonu $1.85 (TAB odds on Friday nite)
Arye $1.00
Gough $9.00 (if running included $0.30)
The pace was fast from the start with many attacks along SH1. Joel Davies was the first to pop after forgetting to eat his sizzler sausages within the first 20km.
Johnny Stockwell made a smart move at Waihola attacking before the corner to try and take the sprint prime before the climb, Shane “Brochard” Archibold wasn’t standing for it though, he chased Stockwell and took the Sprint before ascending the Col de Waihola category one climb to take the KOM prime. Jeff “Schleck” Notman was second over the hill with David “Ricco” Ayre chasing in third. These three came together at the bottom and lapped it out to the finish. Jeff Notman lead out the sprint from 1000m out swinging off with 500m to go leaving David Ayre and Shane Archibald to go head to head for the win. Archibald took the win with Ayre in a disappointing and demoralizing second.
Shane Melrose finished an average 4th placing, Pete Oakden came in solo for 5th. There was controversy in the judging of 6th place when three riders tried to finish tied for 6th place, these riders were quickly disqualified by the fun police and whipped into submission.
Steve Harvard robber the B grade over A/B grader Chris Harvey who should haven known better.
TAB Odds for next weeks Greenall race:
Fastest time-
Whitley $1.85
Henderson $2.20
Melrose $9.00
Evans $500.00
Nonu $1.85 (TAB odds on Friday nite)
Arye $1.00
Gough $9.00 (if running included $0.30)
Monday, June 30, 2008
Delayed Report - Evans Destroys Field With Display Of Pure Power - Again
Last weekends cycling Otago Chris Tudor memorial handicap race had riders racing over a 60km circuit, completing two laps of the famous Sam’s block and then finishing up the always surprisingly steep Mt Allan.
The strong scratch bunch had 28mins to chase down on the front markers and an unrealistic six minutes to the Break group. The chase went wrong right form the start with Chris Henderson suffering a high speed blow out early on, Paul Gough decided he would save his energy for the race down Mt Cargill latter that night. Ashley Whitehead made a return to racing sporting a new fashion accessory, unshaven legs which looked like he was wearing leg warmers. Alex McGregor grabbed his old mans farm gate put some trek stickers on it and called it a bike.
The front of the race came together around the half way mark with Break catching the front at Outram on the run back towards the climb. Sara “Diesel” MacDonald sat on the front driving the riders sitting on the back of the bunch towards the climb. Scratch still trailed 3mins behind the front at this stage.
Brad Evans was super motivated after his dominating victory over the Cat 1 field last week, riding off break Evans proved to be strongest over the last 300 meters of the Mt Allen climb taking the win from a hulk of a rider in Jeff Notman.
Patrick Williamson easily took fastest time from Shane Melrose who almost tipped over at the finish line.
It was tears for Alex McGregor who could not match Williamson and Melrose; the two hill climbers up Mt Allan. McGregor had his revenge the following day at the cycle surgery time trial however, covering the 20km course in 25mins 39seconds.
There was distress at the prize giving when the key to the club room fridge containing the precious Heineken recovery drink could not be found, however the lock was broken off by a bystander and the riders were able to re-hydrate.
Check this website for odds on the next Cycling Otago Road race.
The strong scratch bunch had 28mins to chase down on the front markers and an unrealistic six minutes to the Break group. The chase went wrong right form the start with Chris Henderson suffering a high speed blow out early on, Paul Gough decided he would save his energy for the race down Mt Cargill latter that night. Ashley Whitehead made a return to racing sporting a new fashion accessory, unshaven legs which looked like he was wearing leg warmers. Alex McGregor grabbed his old mans farm gate put some trek stickers on it and called it a bike.
The front of the race came together around the half way mark with Break catching the front at Outram on the run back towards the climb. Sara “Diesel” MacDonald sat on the front driving the riders sitting on the back of the bunch towards the climb. Scratch still trailed 3mins behind the front at this stage.
Brad Evans was super motivated after his dominating victory over the Cat 1 field last week, riding off break Evans proved to be strongest over the last 300 meters of the Mt Allen climb taking the win from a hulk of a rider in Jeff Notman.
Patrick Williamson easily took fastest time from Shane Melrose who almost tipped over at the finish line.
It was tears for Alex McGregor who could not match Williamson and Melrose; the two hill climbers up Mt Allan. McGregor had his revenge the following day at the cycle surgery time trial however, covering the 20km course in 25mins 39seconds.
There was distress at the prize giving when the key to the club room fridge containing the precious Heineken recovery drink could not be found, however the lock was broken off by a bystander and the riders were able to re-hydrate.
Check this website for odds on the next Cycling Otago Road race.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Evans Sprints A Grade, Thomas Deflated, Davies Takes Win, Fairweather Scared
Brad Evans made a strong showing in the A grade taking out both the KOM and the win. This left many to speculate what went wrong. For the third week in a row the issue of not pulling laps reared its ugly head. There was speculation that some within the bunch didn't pull their fair share, however, this could not be confirmed as Evans was unavailable for comment. There were several strong attempts from David Ayre and Jeff Notman to forge a breakaway but they proved unsuccessful. Jon Richardson tried to go it alone but was not even given an inch by the peloton. Paul "Ten Men" Whitely made his pressence felt, but settled for forth due to a cold that has been hampering him for the last two weeks.
In the B grade, karma got the better of Stu Thomas who suffered a puncture on the second lap.
Honor Davies burgled the C grade in a sprint finish, after struggling over Berwick hill three times.
In other news James Fairweather is reported to be scared of the junior worlds track team. This was confirmed after Fairweather failed to show up to racing in Invercargil over the weekend. While we could not reach Fairweather his PR spokesperson said "Jimmy was scared he wouldn't be able to pull a lap in the bunch. He also said he wasn't sure if he could out sprint said juniors". So when will Jimmy come out of hiding? Only time will tell.
In other news Joel Davies has terrible spelling and grammar
In the B grade, karma got the better of Stu Thomas who suffered a puncture on the second lap.
Honor Davies burgled the C grade in a sprint finish, after struggling over Berwick hill three times.
In other news James Fairweather is reported to be scared of the junior worlds track team. This was confirmed after Fairweather failed to show up to racing in Invercargil over the weekend. While we could not reach Fairweather his PR spokesperson said "Jimmy was scared he wouldn't be able to pull a lap in the bunch. He also said he wasn't sure if he could out sprint said juniors". So when will Jimmy come out of hiding? Only time will tell.
In other news Joel Davies has terrible spelling and grammar
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Who is the people's champion?
New Zealand has a number of respected and self proclaimed people’s champions but who is Otago’s people’s champion. The rider who does the job without any if’s, but’s or maybe’s?
The rider, who turns up, does the hard yards and still finishes in the top 3rd of the field?
A couple of suggestions;
Geoff Keogh – He’s been A grade since most riders were being told to eat all their vegetables.
Chris Henderson – He’s new but who else has gone from limit to scratch in one year and if you go out training with him he’ll half wheel you till you crack Nicccceeeee
Jeff Notman – he never says a word, let alone a bad one.
What do you think? Leave a comment with your vote…..
New Poll soon to follow..............
The rider, who turns up, does the hard yards and still finishes in the top 3rd of the field?
A couple of suggestions;
Geoff Keogh – He’s been A grade since most riders were being told to eat all their vegetables.
Chris Henderson – He’s new but who else has gone from limit to scratch in one year and if you go out training with him he’ll half wheel you till you crack Nicccceeeee
Jeff Notman – he never says a word, let alone a bad one.
What do you think? Leave a comment with your vote…..
New Poll soon to follow..............
Friday, June 13, 2008
Rugby Players Proved Inferior Athletes
A Cohort study recently carried out ny students of the University of Otago has shown rugby players to be inferior athletes.
Over the Past three and a half years, students, have carried out a cohort study of "the dedication athletes involved in various sporting disciplines."
Four groups of athletes from different disciplines where obseved in a number of areas designed to assess overall dedication to their chosen sport. The four groups where International Rugby Union Players, NRL League players, Pro tour cyclists and Chinese weight lifters.
The results of the study enabled students to establish wieght lifters as the most dedicated athletes closely followed by cyclists. The union players narrowly beat their league counterparts for a distant third place.
The student in charge of the study who wishes to remain annoymous for his own safety (we will call him Albert) said that he was amazed by the lengths the Chinese wieght lifters went to to remain on top. Albert said they are willing to do anything to improve their performance.
"They literally work themselves to a death like state of exhaustion and them go home and pump themselves full of 'supplements'! Do you have any idea what testosterone can do to the size of your package? any man who is willing to risk that for his sport is clearly passionate about his sport!" -Albert
Albert said that while there where also a number of protour cyclists that had recently been exposed for taking performance enhancing drugs, the levels where not as epidemic as in the chinese wieght lifting squad.
A key area where rugby players of both discipline lost a large amount of dedication points was in pub appearance. Students monitored a number of dunedin pubs where there where numourous sightings of the top athletes from both forms of rugby. these included Stephen Brett "axeing a jug in a boat race" and many complaints of unamed players "inappropriatly hitting on peoples flat mates and freinds." There where no such sightings of either Pro tour cyclists or Chinese wieghtlifters. A sperate study named "Freshers, ethanol and impaired sporting performance" has conclusively shown a link between bars and alcohol, as well as alcohol and impaired coordination, cognitive abilities, general fitness as well as an increased injury rate. Given this negative correlation between alcohol and sport Albert was able to establish that time spent in the pub showed a lack of dedication. Therefore rugby players where far less dedicated than either pro tour cyclists or chinese wieght lifters.
The third area of the study was based on negative press for extra curricular activities. Cyclists, league and union players all fell down in this area with athletes accused of assaults, taking recreational drugs and general disorderly behaviour. No evidence of chinese wieght lifters misbehaving could be found which once again shows their complete dedication. However Albert did admit this result may be slightly biased as no one was capable of reading chinese newspapers and in any case chinese press is heavily censored anyway.
Albert said that if one thing should be taken out of this study it should be that the study was complete rubbish, carried out in the most unscientific conditions relly on heresay and observers who where often intoxicated. He also said that New Zealand needs to get over their loss of Robbie Deans to Australia,
"In my opinion we need to bring back Mehrtens and Deans would never have done that. Also if the All Blacks got out of the pub and onto the feild they might start playing like true world champions. They should take a leaf out of proffesional cyclists and chinese wieght lifters books who sacrifice years of their life for their sport."
-Disclaimer the opionions in this acticle are not those of the Unofficial Otago Cycling blog or any of it's contributors, they are merely those of fictional characters. -Ed
Over the Past three and a half years, students, have carried out a cohort study of "the dedication athletes involved in various sporting disciplines."
Four groups of athletes from different disciplines where obseved in a number of areas designed to assess overall dedication to their chosen sport. The four groups where International Rugby Union Players, NRL League players, Pro tour cyclists and Chinese weight lifters.
The results of the study enabled students to establish wieght lifters as the most dedicated athletes closely followed by cyclists. The union players narrowly beat their league counterparts for a distant third place.
The student in charge of the study who wishes to remain annoymous for his own safety (we will call him Albert) said that he was amazed by the lengths the Chinese wieght lifters went to to remain on top. Albert said they are willing to do anything to improve their performance.
"They literally work themselves to a death like state of exhaustion and them go home and pump themselves full of 'supplements'! Do you have any idea what testosterone can do to the size of your package? any man who is willing to risk that for his sport is clearly passionate about his sport!" -Albert
Albert said that while there where also a number of protour cyclists that had recently been exposed for taking performance enhancing drugs, the levels where not as epidemic as in the chinese wieght lifting squad.
A key area where rugby players of both discipline lost a large amount of dedication points was in pub appearance. Students monitored a number of dunedin pubs where there where numourous sightings of the top athletes from both forms of rugby. these included Stephen Brett "axeing a jug in a boat race" and many complaints of unamed players "inappropriatly hitting on peoples flat mates and freinds." There where no such sightings of either Pro tour cyclists or Chinese wieghtlifters. A sperate study named "Freshers, ethanol and impaired sporting performance" has conclusively shown a link between bars and alcohol, as well as alcohol and impaired coordination, cognitive abilities, general fitness as well as an increased injury rate. Given this negative correlation between alcohol and sport Albert was able to establish that time spent in the pub showed a lack of dedication. Therefore rugby players where far less dedicated than either pro tour cyclists or chinese wieght lifters.
The third area of the study was based on negative press for extra curricular activities. Cyclists, league and union players all fell down in this area with athletes accused of assaults, taking recreational drugs and general disorderly behaviour. No evidence of chinese wieght lifters misbehaving could be found which once again shows their complete dedication. However Albert did admit this result may be slightly biased as no one was capable of reading chinese newspapers and in any case chinese press is heavily censored anyway.
Albert said that if one thing should be taken out of this study it should be that the study was complete rubbish, carried out in the most unscientific conditions relly on heresay and observers who where often intoxicated. He also said that New Zealand needs to get over their loss of Robbie Deans to Australia,
"In my opinion we need to bring back Mehrtens and Deans would never have done that. Also if the All Blacks got out of the pub and onto the feild they might start playing like true world champions. They should take a leaf out of proffesional cyclists and chinese wieght lifters books who sacrifice years of their life for their sport."
-Disclaimer the opionions in this acticle are not those of the Unofficial Otago Cycling blog or any of it's contributors, they are merely those of fictional characters. -Ed
Berwick Mass Start and Surgery TT
This weekend is packed with racing with the Berwick mass start on Saturday and the Surgery TT on Sunday. Saturday will see the riders tackle the Berwick circuit three time for a total of 54km, with three ascents of the infamous Berwick hill., each lap there is KOM points up for grabs. Sunday is the beginning of the Cycle Surgery time trial series beginning with a 20km TT.
Saturday's race should has the potential for some very interesting racing. Will Alex Daniels or Alex McGregor take out the KOM or will the big guns make it too hard on the flat? Although Bewrwick hill is not terrible long or steep it will take the sting out of the sprinters legs by the end of the third lap. So will it be a bunch sprint or is a break going to get away?
Once again Huricane Stockwell will be absent from racing and is sticking to his traditional approach. He is looking to get 100 miles in before heading off to an afternoon exam. Rumours are circulating that his absence from racing may be a bid to avoid post race drug testing, however this can neither be confirmed or denied. As was to be expected Stockwell would not comment on such speculation.
David Ayre is a likely candidate for a strong performance and will be looking for a strong performance. David has confirmed he would like to "pull a Cancellara" and steal the show from Jimmy Fairweather in the final sprint. The big question is will Ayre be able to hang on over the multiple ascents of Berwick hill to contest the win?
Shane Melrose has made yet another late withdrawal from racing. He cited his broken rib as the reason for is non-participation. Sources close to Melrose told us he has spent the best part of the week in a secret training camp in Invercargil. When questioned on his where abouts Melrose confirmed he was in fact in Invercargil but would not offer any further comment.
Bat wing Fairweather could pull off a third consecutive win this weekend if it comes down to a sprint. He already commands a strong lead in the points table and another win would only solidify his position as leader. However, the Bat wing will need to watch the greyhounds McGregor and Daniels carefully on Berwick.
Chris Henderson is also looking for a strong performance. It has been reported that he is highly motivated after struggling somewhat on scratch last weekend. Henderson would be a safe bet for either the KOM or outright victory.
Lastly, Steve Havard is beginning to feel the pressure of impending fatherhood. The clock is ticking and he only has six months left to notch up a much needed victory before his riding career is put on halt indefinitely. We were unable to reach Havard for comment, although rumour has it he has been out training in the secrecy of dark on the Taieri plains.
Unofficial Otago Cycling TAB Odds
Batwing Fairweather - $1.05
Alex McGregor - $1.45
Chris Henderson - $1.80
Alex Daniels - $2.00
David Ayre - $2.55
Steve Havard - $3.10
Jeff Notman - $3.60
Ten Men Whitley - $36.00
Saturday's race should has the potential for some very interesting racing. Will Alex Daniels or Alex McGregor take out the KOM or will the big guns make it too hard on the flat? Although Bewrwick hill is not terrible long or steep it will take the sting out of the sprinters legs by the end of the third lap. So will it be a bunch sprint or is a break going to get away?
Once again Huricane Stockwell will be absent from racing and is sticking to his traditional approach. He is looking to get 100 miles in before heading off to an afternoon exam. Rumours are circulating that his absence from racing may be a bid to avoid post race drug testing, however this can neither be confirmed or denied. As was to be expected Stockwell would not comment on such speculation.
David Ayre is a likely candidate for a strong performance and will be looking for a strong performance. David has confirmed he would like to "pull a Cancellara" and steal the show from Jimmy Fairweather in the final sprint. The big question is will Ayre be able to hang on over the multiple ascents of Berwick hill to contest the win?
Shane Melrose has made yet another late withdrawal from racing. He cited his broken rib as the reason for is non-participation. Sources close to Melrose told us he has spent the best part of the week in a secret training camp in Invercargil. When questioned on his where abouts Melrose confirmed he was in fact in Invercargil but would not offer any further comment.
Bat wing Fairweather could pull off a third consecutive win this weekend if it comes down to a sprint. He already commands a strong lead in the points table and another win would only solidify his position as leader. However, the Bat wing will need to watch the greyhounds McGregor and Daniels carefully on Berwick.
Chris Henderson is also looking for a strong performance. It has been reported that he is highly motivated after struggling somewhat on scratch last weekend. Henderson would be a safe bet for either the KOM or outright victory.
Lastly, Steve Havard is beginning to feel the pressure of impending fatherhood. The clock is ticking and he only has six months left to notch up a much needed victory before his riding career is put on halt indefinitely. We were unable to reach Havard for comment, although rumour has it he has been out training in the secrecy of dark on the Taieri plains.
Unofficial Otago Cycling TAB Odds
Batwing Fairweather - $1.05
Alex McGregor - $1.45
Chris Henderson - $1.80
Alex Daniels - $2.00
David Ayre - $2.55
Steve Havard - $3.10
Jeff Notman - $3.60
Ten Men Whitley - $36.00
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Didnt get it wrong, Stop Moaning, Just Race
In light of the last posting,"Officials Apologise" I felt it prudent to point out the following.
The officials did not get it wrong with the race finish at Green Island, there was an incident with a "Professional Truck Driver" who couldn't back his truck blocking the road for the sprint finish.
I understand this may be seen by some members as an Official Error however these riders are also so concerned with others not pulling a lap they fail to see that had Officials not been available at the weekend there would have been no race at all.
In what was looking to be a good year for Cycling in Otago with so many positive comments about the race programme being different and interesting, the concerned riders should also note that if the so called "Officials that got it wrong" had not intervened your race would have been a short 35 km blast from Brighton to Taieri Mouth as in the past programme, Hmm I wonder now if we could move on and worry about the bigger picture, Racing your Bike.
The officials did not get it wrong with the race finish at Green Island, there was an incident with a "Professional Truck Driver" who couldn't back his truck blocking the road for the sprint finish.
I understand this may be seen by some members as an Official Error however these riders are also so concerned with others not pulling a lap they fail to see that had Officials not been available at the weekend there would have been no race at all.
In what was looking to be a good year for Cycling in Otago with so many positive comments about the race programme being different and interesting, the concerned riders should also note that if the so called "Officials that got it wrong" had not intervened your race would have been a short 35 km blast from Brighton to Taieri Mouth as in the past programme, Hmm I wonder now if we could move on and worry about the bigger picture, Racing your Bike.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Centre AGM, Soft Laps?, Officials Apologise
The Otago Centre AGM has been set for the 15th July, unlike the last centre AGM held in May sources have confirmed this will be publicly notified in the newspaper. So come along and have your say in the running of cycling in Otago.
In other news frustration is rife within the peloton after a few too many riders pulled soft laps in last weekends race. One irrate cyclist was particularly annoyed with people refusing to take their turn on the front, he was quoted as saying "there is too many phantoms in the bunch!". We cannot confirm whether or not Bat-wing Fairweather was amongst those not fronting up and doing the work.
Race officials announced late last night that they "got it wrong" with Saturday's race finish, and have gone on to say it will not happen again. They also suggested that the incompetence of the truck driver was to blame for the mishap and it was not entirely their fault.
In other news frustration is rife within the peloton after a few too many riders pulled soft laps in last weekends race. One irrate cyclist was particularly annoyed with people refusing to take their turn on the front, he was quoted as saying "there is too many phantoms in the bunch!". We cannot confirm whether or not Bat-wing Fairweather was amongst those not fronting up and doing the work.
Race officials announced late last night that they "got it wrong" with Saturday's race finish, and have gone on to say it will not happen again. They also suggested that the incompetence of the truck driver was to blame for the mishap and it was not entirely their fault.
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Fairweather Triumphs, Brosanhan Wins Over Depleted Field
A reduced field was met with howling southerlies and chilly conditions for this years edition of the Green Island Taieri Mouth return. The race saw a strong limit set off with second limit at 8 minutes, second break at 12 minutes, break at 14 minutes and scratch at 19 minutes.
Second break began to find it rythmn with Tony Chapman, Mike Lormans, Barret Wilson and Stevie Grant pulling some strong laps to take 4 minutes out of limit by Brighton. Strong cross winds saw the front of the race swept up by second break shortly before Taieri mouth with break and scratch hot on their tails.
At this point Davies felt his time in the bunch was up and launched a solo move on the Taieri mouth bridge, which saw him stay clear for 10 or so km. This promted Chapman, Wilson, Grant and Lormans and a couple of others to chase and saw them drop their fellow co-markers.
This group of 7 riders stayed clear until they were swallowed up by scratch on the decisive climb at Waldronville. The hammer went down in a fast approach to the sprint, which oddly enough saw a large truck backing across the road almost blocking the road. However Jimmy Fairweather being the professional he is triumphed in an adverse situation to take another strong sprint victory. Jan Brosanhan walked away with fastest women after the elite women within the club failed to show up. Perhaps the weather was just too cold for them?
Other strange happenings from the race included an ODT photographer stalking of Kat Jones and taking several action photos. On returning to the finish line he approached Jones for an interview only to find out she had abandoned the race and was not in fact the race winner like he thought. However, Brad Evans was only to happy top fill the void and provided an interview on his recent sucesses and selection into the New Zealand Team.
Next weekends race looks to be an interesting affair with Melrose confirming he will start broken rib and all. But can Fairweather be stopped or will it be three in a row for the infamous batwing?
Second break began to find it rythmn with Tony Chapman, Mike Lormans, Barret Wilson and Stevie Grant pulling some strong laps to take 4 minutes out of limit by Brighton. Strong cross winds saw the front of the race swept up by second break shortly before Taieri mouth with break and scratch hot on their tails.
At this point Davies felt his time in the bunch was up and launched a solo move on the Taieri mouth bridge, which saw him stay clear for 10 or so km. This promted Chapman, Wilson, Grant and Lormans and a couple of others to chase and saw them drop their fellow co-markers.
This group of 7 riders stayed clear until they were swallowed up by scratch on the decisive climb at Waldronville. The hammer went down in a fast approach to the sprint, which oddly enough saw a large truck backing across the road almost blocking the road. However Jimmy Fairweather being the professional he is triumphed in an adverse situation to take another strong sprint victory. Jan Brosanhan walked away with fastest women after the elite women within the club failed to show up. Perhaps the weather was just too cold for them?
Other strange happenings from the race included an ODT photographer stalking of Kat Jones and taking several action photos. On returning to the finish line he approached Jones for an interview only to find out she had abandoned the race and was not in fact the race winner like he thought. However, Brad Evans was only to happy top fill the void and provided an interview on his recent sucesses and selection into the New Zealand Team.
Next weekends race looks to be an interesting affair with Melrose confirming he will start broken rib and all. But can Fairweather be stopped or will it be three in a row for the infamous batwing?
Saturday, June 7, 2008
Fairweather Takes The Win
Jimmy Fairweather won todays race in convincing fashion with Napolean Dynamite in second and possibly Patrick Williamson in third. Official results and a full race report are soon to follow, stay tuned for more.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Green Island-Tariei mouth- Green Island Race Preview
In the build up to saturday's highly anticipated race, we are proud to bring you an insight to the some riders pre race preparations. Otago Cycling atempted to contact a number of the pre race favourites in order to shed some light on what it takes to compete at a rgional level. Otago Cycling spoke to Johnathon Hurricane Stockwell who denied any rumours that'd he was racing. Stockwell said that he was reverting to a "traditional" approach to riding and this approach does not involve short 60 kilometre races. Instead he intends to get some long and hard miles under his belt which he will be follow up with an afternoon exam, allowing his body to recover from strenous training. Stockwell also commented on the importance of a healthy diet, "If I loose wieght, I loose power." Stockwell intends to tackle this problem by "carboloading" at the puub later on that night.
Otago Cycling also attempted to contact local power house Shane Melrose but was only able to reach his press correspondent. Melrose's correspondent was able to confirm that Melrose would not be racing this weekend either. He was also quick to quash any speculation that Melrose had been stood down by team management for abnormally high hieneken levels in his blood stream, "Shane is recovering from a broken rib which he sustained in a mountain biking accident earlier this week." However when pressed further he refused to reveal medical documentation to confirm this story.
Unfortunately Otago Cycling was unable to contact local super-domestique, Joel Davies. When Cycling Otago rang Joel they where informed that it was past his bedtime and he was unable to answer the phone. Davies is known for his courageuos lone breakaways and has a reputation for choosing to brave the elements by himself instead of sheltering in the peleton.
We also managed to breifly contact David Ayre, who was located in the central library. Ayre appeared to be doing nothing productive although he did have several books scattered in fron of him. Cycling Otago can only conclude that he was resting hinslelf and studying tactics for tomorrows race. Ayre did state that he intended to spend saturday morning in a university exam but Cycling Otago suspects this is a ploy to divert attention from his secret training scheme.
Unfortunatly we where unable to contac either Chris Henderson or Geof Keogh or Chris Henderson but bot will be dominate forces in tomorrows race. We also wish to point out that there are many other riders who could potentially claim victory tomorrow. especially considering the nature of tomorrows course and the style of race.
Otago Cycling also attempted to contact local power house Shane Melrose but was only able to reach his press correspondent. Melrose's correspondent was able to confirm that Melrose would not be racing this weekend either. He was also quick to quash any speculation that Melrose had been stood down by team management for abnormally high hieneken levels in his blood stream, "Shane is recovering from a broken rib which he sustained in a mountain biking accident earlier this week." However when pressed further he refused to reveal medical documentation to confirm this story.
Unfortunately Otago Cycling was unable to contact local super-domestique, Joel Davies. When Cycling Otago rang Joel they where informed that it was past his bedtime and he was unable to answer the phone. Davies is known for his courageuos lone breakaways and has a reputation for choosing to brave the elements by himself instead of sheltering in the peleton.
We also managed to breifly contact David Ayre, who was located in the central library. Ayre appeared to be doing nothing productive although he did have several books scattered in fron of him. Cycling Otago can only conclude that he was resting hinslelf and studying tactics for tomorrows race. Ayre did state that he intended to spend saturday morning in a university exam but Cycling Otago suspects this is a ploy to divert attention from his secret training scheme.
Unfortunatly we where unable to contac either Chris Henderson or Geof Keogh or Chris Henderson but bot will be dominate forces in tomorrows race. We also wish to point out that there are many other riders who could potentially claim victory tomorrow. especially considering the nature of tomorrows course and the style of race.
Melrose Withdraws From Race
Melrose has withdrawn from this weekends race with a broken rib, leaving fastest time wide open. This has boosted the chances of several likely contenders. David "Venus Flytrap" Ayre and Chris "China Knees" Henderson stand to gain the most with their recent promotion to scratch. Also look out for Steve "Diesel Engine" Havard who will most likely be in the hunt and supporting Henderson.
The battle for fastest womens time looks to be tightly contested. The usual suspects will be in action with Kat Jones, Emma Htchings, CJ and Katri Laike expected to take the line. Sara MacDonald will also be looking to capitalise on her recent race winning from Lake Tekapo and challenge for the win.
The Unofficial Cycling Otago TAB Odds To Win
Jan Brosanhan - $1.05
Jimmy Fairweather - $1.25
David Ayre - $2.05
Chris Henderson - $2.65
Alex Daniels - $5.00
Jeff Notman - $2 (Jeff has just completed a strength block- look out)
Alex Mcgregor - $100 (Has a new over priced bike)
The battle for fastest womens time looks to be tightly contested. The usual suspects will be in action with Kat Jones, Emma Htchings, CJ and Katri Laike expected to take the line. Sara MacDonald will also be looking to capitalise on her recent race winning from Lake Tekapo and challenge for the win.
The Unofficial Cycling Otago TAB Odds To Win
Jan Brosanhan - $1.05
Jimmy Fairweather - $1.25
David Ayre - $2.05
Chris Henderson - $2.65
Alex Daniels - $5.00
Jeff Notman - $2 (Jeff has just completed a strength block- look out)
Alex Mcgregor - $100 (Has a new over priced bike)
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Davies Pushes Luck
Recently Team Type Two rider Joel Davies has been pushing his luck, staying up past his bed time, going to pubs with cycling associates and hunting for fresh water crayfish late at night. This behavior has been noticed by team manager Kat Jones. Jones has issued Davies with several warnings to no avail. Rumor has it Davies could soon be searching for a new team.
Q & A With Phil Liggett and David Air
Phil: Hi David how are you and thankyou for joining us at The Dark Side
David: Thanks Phil i feel really honoured and priviliged to be here
P: So David where did it all begin give us a brief overview of your career and who has helped you along the way?
D: Well for me it all began at nelson college where after being hammered in the rugby trials i was searching for something else. I knew i liked to hurt people but making them suffer while enjoying a sweet burn in my thigh was something completely new to me. I was involved heavily in school cycling where the rigid structure kept me focused. It was then i went through a low point. After moving to dunedin to take up study i fell through the cracks i was constantly drinking, womanising and finding myself in strange houses and i dont know how. It was Tim, Joel, Kat and Jonny who picked me up to take me under there wing. An oppurtunity came up to race with a new and diverse team for the Tour of Southland. Our team suffered but it was on the 13th november 2007 that i could officially call myself a cyclist again.
P: Wow sounds like an amazing adventure, Whats instore for David Air in 2008?
D: Well thats easy, the tour of southland is a major priority after a strict weight loss programme over the summer i am much less susceptable to being dropped on the climbs, this combined with the employment of a new coach has improved my performance immensly as has been seen with a few victories in club races earlier this season
P: How did you come to be recruited by the Star & Garter cycling team
D: Well i was initially recruited by a good friend of mine and ex tour rider Nathan Dahlberg, with the intention of working with top New Zealand rider Paul Odlin. Unfortunately contract negotiations fell thru but a strong squad has been build around young up and comers George Bennett and Jack Baur. The team also feature double olymian Chris Nicholson who is the icing on the cake
P: Sounds like a great team David, It is rumoured thru the peleton you have been refining your timetrial technique, Hows it going?
D: Yes however i can not allow you to indulge in such a line of questioning, my timetrial equipment and training is top secret and is still in the planning stage i will not answer any further questions on this topic Phil!
P: Ok ok im sorry please let go of my arm..... Geez thanks David its been great having you here with us. Any parting advice for the kids?
D: Thanks Phil its Been my pleasure, Just train hard and the results will come
Note: This interview is totally based loosely upon statements collected over the past 12 months
David: Thanks Phil i feel really honoured and priviliged to be here
P: So David where did it all begin give us a brief overview of your career and who has helped you along the way?
D: Well for me it all began at nelson college where after being hammered in the rugby trials i was searching for something else. I knew i liked to hurt people but making them suffer while enjoying a sweet burn in my thigh was something completely new to me. I was involved heavily in school cycling where the rigid structure kept me focused. It was then i went through a low point. After moving to dunedin to take up study i fell through the cracks i was constantly drinking, womanising and finding myself in strange houses and i dont know how. It was Tim, Joel, Kat and Jonny who picked me up to take me under there wing. An oppurtunity came up to race with a new and diverse team for the Tour of Southland. Our team suffered but it was on the 13th november 2007 that i could officially call myself a cyclist again.
P: Wow sounds like an amazing adventure, Whats instore for David Air in 2008?
D: Well thats easy, the tour of southland is a major priority after a strict weight loss programme over the summer i am much less susceptable to being dropped on the climbs, this combined with the employment of a new coach has improved my performance immensly as has been seen with a few victories in club races earlier this season
P: How did you come to be recruited by the Star & Garter cycling team
D: Well i was initially recruited by a good friend of mine and ex tour rider Nathan Dahlberg, with the intention of working with top New Zealand rider Paul Odlin. Unfortunately contract negotiations fell thru but a strong squad has been build around young up and comers George Bennett and Jack Baur. The team also feature double olymian Chris Nicholson who is the icing on the cake
P: Sounds like a great team David, It is rumoured thru the peleton you have been refining your timetrial technique, Hows it going?
D: Yes however i can not allow you to indulge in such a line of questioning, my timetrial equipment and training is top secret and is still in the planning stage i will not answer any further questions on this topic Phil!
P: Ok ok im sorry please let go of my arm..... Geez thanks David its been great having you here with us. Any parting advice for the kids?
D: Thanks Phil its Been my pleasure, Just train hard and the results will come
Note: This interview is totally based loosely upon statements collected over the past 12 months
Melrose Fears The Worst,
Melrose is currently unsure if he will contest this weekends race, after breaking a rib in a downhill mountain biking accident on Monday night. It is alleged that he was riding on a track that may or may not contain fruit in the form of pineapples. Jonathon Sarginson was quoted as telling Melrose "to harden up". Word on the street is Melrose went home and cried himself to sleep that night.
Melrose fears that Jimmy Fairweather may cut his lunch and run away with the points series lead. When questioned he said "I keep trying but I just can't get round Jimmy in a sprint, I just don't know how to beat him. I migh just have to beat him in the hills". One question remains? Will Shane be able to beat Jimmy over the hills or will he lose the battle?
Melrose fears that Jimmy Fairweather may cut his lunch and run away with the points series lead. When questioned he said "I keep trying but I just can't get round Jimmy in a sprint, I just don't know how to beat him. I migh just have to beat him in the hills". One question remains? Will Shane be able to beat Jimmy over the hills or will he lose the battle?
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Celebrity Blogger
Look out for our new celebrity blogger, Tim Hargrave. Tim promises to bring us stories from inside the pro peloton, advice for turning pro, and tips on how to pull american women! Stay tune for more from the man himself.
The Rumours Continue....
Hot off the press from the Tour of Taranaki, cyclists in participating in the race had their worst fears come to life when farm gate shrapnel was reportedly sprayed through the peloton. This came moments after Napolean Dynamite self-destructed ruining his and many others chances of winning the race.
In other news there have been reported sightings of Johnny "Huricane" Stockwell out training in the high mountain passes of Mt Cargill and the Portobello alps. Its not known what exactly he is training for, although he did say have this to say, "i'm gona show Whitley what A grade looks like!"
Joel Davies has come out claiming that sizzler saugaes are the reason behind his recent success at the Tour of Queenstown and not his new bike as oirignally speculated at in the media. He also went on to say that he hopes through an increased sausage intake his descending should hopefully imporve.
Lastly my one year ban handed to me by CONI is bulls%$t. I am currently feeling good sensations and am hoping to get back to racing soon.
In other news there have been reported sightings of Johnny "Huricane" Stockwell out training in the high mountain passes of Mt Cargill and the Portobello alps. Its not known what exactly he is training for, although he did say have this to say, "i'm gona show Whitley what A grade looks like!"
Joel Davies has come out claiming that sizzler saugaes are the reason behind his recent success at the Tour of Queenstown and not his new bike as oirignally speculated at in the media. He also went on to say that he hopes through an increased sausage intake his descending should hopefully imporve.
Lastly my one year ban handed to me by CONI is bulls%$t. I am currently feeling good sensations and am hoping to get back to racing soon.
Fairweather Confirms Rumors........
The worst keep secret in cycling was confirmed this week when Jimmy “Stocky” Fairweather released a press statement detailing his fear of taking a lap at the front of bicycle races.
“I would like to take a lap but I’m just too weak” Fairweather commented after the last club race.
In other news Chris “China Knees” Henderson showed his diversity over the weekend controlling the elite section of the Round Tekapo mountain bike race from start till 500meters into the event. Henderson said he “enjoyed the experience and was counting down the days till his next mountain biking outing”. He also confessed he had an advantage over the other elite riders as he used a unique prototype mountain bike built by GT, the bike is loosely based on an early 1990’s machine and instead of trying to save weight GT have increased the weight to aid down hill speed.
Joel Davis of team Type Two announced a new sponsor has joined his quest for cycling world domination, Sizzler sausage’s is now the official race food of the Queenstown Tour stage winning solo artist.
Alex McGregor AKA “Napoleon Dynamite” issued a warning to all riders over the weekend “If I blow up in the next race and you’re near me don’t blame me if your hit by farm gate shrapnel” the statement is bound to cause some sleepless nights for many riders.
Stay tuned for more up dates.......................
“I would like to take a lap but I’m just too weak” Fairweather commented after the last club race.
In other news Chris “China Knees” Henderson showed his diversity over the weekend controlling the elite section of the Round Tekapo mountain bike race from start till 500meters into the event. Henderson said he “enjoyed the experience and was counting down the days till his next mountain biking outing”. He also confessed he had an advantage over the other elite riders as he used a unique prototype mountain bike built by GT, the bike is loosely based on an early 1990’s machine and instead of trying to save weight GT have increased the weight to aid down hill speed.
Joel Davis of team Type Two announced a new sponsor has joined his quest for cycling world domination, Sizzler sausage’s is now the official race food of the Queenstown Tour stage winning solo artist.
Alex McGregor AKA “Napoleon Dynamite” issued a warning to all riders over the weekend “If I blow up in the next race and you’re near me don’t blame me if your hit by farm gate shrapnel” the statement is bound to cause some sleepless nights for many riders.
Stay tuned for more up dates.......................
Henderson In The Hunt
Rumour has it Chris Henderson is in the hunt for the win this weekend after winning the opening race of the season. Henderson is lacking points after missing the second race due manegreial issues. Sources close to Hendy suggest he will have his faithful lieutenant Steve Havard at his side giving his all for his team captain. Get set for a showdown of the big guns this weekend!!!
Monday, June 2, 2008
Taieri Mouth Handicap
This weekends race is set to be the defining race of the first quarter of the otago season. With the pecking order well established after the first 2 races it should be difficult for the scratch mark to come thru. Jimmy Fairweather has been riding strongly and upsetting a few of the local lads who will use the best of there knowledge to tame this wild mammoth of a man. Shane Melrose may be able to use his nous and tactical riding to overcome the burdon of injury to claim the title of 'best seaside rider' this weekend. He was in dominate form in the opening round of the season winning the James Faulding memmorial but was taken down with a dose of food poisoning and unable to take part in the following weekends racing. The Taieri race will test everyones legs begining at greenisland for the first time throwing in a few more kilometers.
The second race Jimmy won so points are tight. This weekend is a handicap race so Joel 'gravel trap' Davies could come thru and use his lethal kick to sprint clear
With the points table underthreat from out of towners expect some fast racing this weekend
The second race Jimmy won so points are tight. This weekend is a handicap race so Joel 'gravel trap' Davies could come thru and use his lethal kick to sprint clear
With the points table underthreat from out of towners expect some fast racing this weekend
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