Wolverine Sports Club Elite Team

Randy Rodd (Male Model) Superweek 2009

2009-08-07T16:45:00.004-04:00

Superweek 2009

Race your strengths. This phrase started to resonate in my head after a Tuesday ride that was anything but easy for me. My legs where toast after the Troy Classic and the upcoming Michigan races (Fenton and the State TT) appeared that I would instead be racing my weaknesses. As I sat talking to Ray about Superweek the idea of heading out there seemed more and more plausible. The races would be to my advantage and it would consist of quality racing with larger money. After finding arrangements for a place to sleep thanks to the generosity of John Coyle my mind was made up that I would be heading out of state. The only question was how many day to race, to which Ray said if I am driving that far I have to do at least three races. Chicago Crit, Racine, and Kenosha also appeared to be my type of races. I was out the door at 5:30 am on Thursday to be at Racine with plenty of time for my 2:00 start but a flat tire on the car caused a change of plans. I got everything straitened away and got into town still with plenty of time.

Racine Cat 3 7/23/09
The course was an eight corner Crit with a final climb into a left turn and then a 300 meter false flat sprint. I discussed the finish with Coyle and we agreed that I needed to be top 3 out of the corner. With my plan in my head I just wanted to see the finish come together in a field sprint. After the first few laps I found myself in a five man break with about ten seconds on the field. This was not part of my plan. I did not know anyone in the break or their strengths but I knew my weaknesses and decided pulling through would be a poor idea for me. We got reeled in mainly but Team Leadout after about three laps away. The rest of the race had many attacks with none sticking until about five laps to go when one guy got away buy himself. When the field sprint came I was in perfect position and made my move out of the final corner in to large of a gear and pick my back wheel up. I kept it upright but it was a costly mistake taking me back a few spots into fifth place in the end. Not bad for my first Superweek race but I came away from it a bit disappointed.

Kenosha Cat 3 7/24/09
A flat four corner course, I could not ask for a better setup. The finish was 350 meters out of the final corner with a fierce headwind. The race had attack after attack but like Racine nothing stuck. Coming into the final lap Leadout had four guys lined up for the train. I saw it coming and quickly latched onto Geoff Kuyper’s wheel. They lead the whole final lap and in the final turn they launched Kuyper with me on his wheel. I made an early move to come around which cost me the win but I was content with second place.

Chicago Crit Cat 3 7/26/09
I took Saturday off after reading the course description and not wanting burn out my legs on a course that did not suite me. I left Milwaukee at 5:30 with little sleep in me but I was feeling good. This was another course made for me, four corners with a short, steep climb, into a downhill left turn with 200 Meters to the finish. My plan was to hit it from the bottom, get a small gap and take it to the finish. The field was large and filled with many strong riders. My previous good feelings went away right as the race was starting. I was very tired for the first twenty minutes but once I got it rolling the final forty minuets went quick. With two laps to go I was in the middle of the eighty man field and had some moving up to do. Coming into the final turn I was sixth and made my move. I went wide of the field but as I attacked someone off the front sat up and quickly veered right into my line. I dug a pedal into the sidewalk, hit a metal barricade but was able kept the rubber side down. My move was quickly nullified with all my matches burnt. I was able to get back in the field and take sixth not bad for almost losing it.

All in all it was a great weekend of racing and meeting new people. Winning some money was nice but the company and atmosphere was defiantly the highlight of the trip. John was more than accommodating for the weekend and defiantly made it a worthy experience.

Randy Rodd

Tree Farm Relay - Novi, Michigan July 25, 2009

2009-08-07T16:45:00.001-04:00

Wolverine Sports Club/American Cycle & Fitness Elite Mountain Bike Team Race Report (July 25, 2009)

Tree Farm Relay - Novi, Michigan

Brent Steinberg - Place: 3rd Advanced Men - Time: 6:19:23 "Did the Tree Farm Relay on a last minute put together team. Some muddy conditions warranted I ride my 69er single speed. Roosted 2 laps in some mud and rain and put in the fastest lap of the day. Was a fun low-key event and good times were had by all."

Big M XC – Manistee, Michigan July 19, 2009

2009-08-07T16:39:00.001-04:00

Wolverine Sports Club/American Cycle & Fitness Elite Mountain Bike Team Race Report (July 19, 2009)

Big M XC – Manistee, Michigan

Steve Dempsey - Place: 5th Elite Men – Time: 1:53:32 "A dreamy weekend of remote wilderness which frowns upon to remote parking! Great horned owls called in the morning so fresh and clean. The perfect weather unveiled a fast trail with steady climbs and quick descents. Had oodles of fun ripping with everyone and can't wait for the next one."

Bill Clikeman - Place: 7th Elite Men – Time: 1:54:08 "This is a really fun course to race on; good teamwork made the difference in being able to maintain a strong, consistent pace, and gain positions."

Robert Herriman - Place: 8th Elite Men – Time: 1:54:09 "Another great weekend of camping, campfire stories, star gazing, and playing in the dirt. In the race, Bill, Brent, and I worked together taking turns pushing our pace. That was way fun and we were able to gain some spots."

Brent Steinberg - Place: 10th Elite Men – Time: 1:57:14 "Super fun weekend with an awesome elite turnout. Body was a bit sluggish from the week prior, but it was great being able to work together with Bill and Robert. Had a great time racing and seeing all my racing buddies I haven't seen in a long time. Can't wait for Stony TT next weekend."

Amanda Ryan - Place: 2nd Elite Women – Time: 1:54:30 "Never rode the Big-M before, the name sounded intimidating and hills are never my favorite but pre-riding with fellow teammates helped me learn the course (thanks guys!). However, the shorter race loop made for a seemingly fast race and the downhills were tons of fun, as was the entire weekend."

Patrick Russell - Place: 3rd Elite SingleSpeed – Time: 1:34:18 "I played the caboose as riders dropped off until an attack came at the end of the second lap. I clawed my way back to the lead two. I came unhitched at the same point again but couldn't catch back on. Next time I won't forget to pack my climbing legs."

Robert Herriman

Boyne Marathon - Boyne Falls, Michigan July 11, 2009

2009-08-07T16:32:00.000-04:00

Wolverine Sports Club/American Cycle & Fitness Elite Mountain Bike Team Race Report (July 11, 2009)

Boyne Marathon - Boyne Falls, Michigan

Brent Steinberg - Place: 3rd Elite Men - Time: 3:42:49 "Fun race. Legs and body felt good and fitness is starting to come back. Rode lap 1 with Jamie Parker then went solo the last 3 laps. The 29er was perfect, and only one leaky tire on the day. Course was changed up this year and it was awesome. It was a small field, but some good horsepower, I was surprised I was 3rd!"
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Mountain Chase XC - Marquette, Michigan - June 28, 2009

2009-07-03T12:43:00.003-04:00

Wolverine Sports Club/American Cycle & Fitness Elite Mountain Bike Team Race Report (June 28, 2009)
Mountain Chase XC - Marquette, Michigan

Jay Moncel - Place: 5th Men 30-39 - Time - 1:47:50 "a mass start for all the distances with a ski hill start to spread the field. after ascending we dropped into some amazing single track. i found my rhythm and started gapping people. then we popped out onto a windy road section. i threw it into the big small and put my head down. 2 laps later I was 17th overall at the finish. pretty happy with the result since I hadn’t raced in about 2 years. fun times!"

Kelly Paterson – Place: 1st Women 40-49 - Time: 2:11:13 "The trail at Marquette Mountain had a little bit of everything. Technical single track, bridges over creeks, ups and downs, rocks and roots, dirt and paved roads. I got a good start and rode in 2nd for most of the race. Flatted with 5 miles to go (out of 24) and painfully clawed my way past two gals to regain my 2nd place overall. It was a blast!"

Tim Finkel - A little long for this site, please see his race report at: http://timfinkel.blogspot.com/

Lumberjack 100 - Manistee, Michigan - June 20th, 2009

2009-07-03T12:37:00.001-04:00

Wolverine Sports Club/American Cycle & Fitness Elite Mountain Bike Team Race Report (June 20, 2009)
Lumberjack 100 - Manistee, Michigan

Robert Herriman - Place: 9th Open Men - Time: 7:48:01 "What an incredible day. My 5th Lumberjack started out with a busted seat-post at mile 2 of 100, uhg! I had a spare post in my car and after a quick pit stop, I started out again. It was challenging to work my way back through the field from 272nd place, but I just kept plugging along and was simply flabbergasted to finish top 10 in the end. Wow!!"

Brent Steinberg - Place: 63rd Open Men - Time: 10:15:20 "After only 4 rides in six weeks with naggin knee problems, I went to the Lumbo for fun ride in the woods. 6hrs and 75 miles later in 16th, I called it good. Sat around for a while, then finished up lap 4 with my dad. Happy my knee held up! Fun weekend catching up with everyone after being gone for a while. Can't wait for the next one."

Kelly Paterson - Place: 6th Open Women - Time: 9:30:21 "I wasn’t really sure I could actually do 100 miles on a mountain bike. I was shooting for a time between 10:00 and 10:30. I just kept it steady and was really happy with my finish. It was a blast! A too-long pit stop cost me a place, but I wasn’t really racing anyone but myself. Super fun course with rolling hills, grinders and some insanely fun down hills."

Tour de Mt. Pleasant – June 13th & 14th

2009-06-17T16:34:00.000-04:00

Mt. Pleasant, MI - June 13th & 14th

Saturday 75 minutes + 2 laps Crit results: 62 starters (27.6 mph avg.)
5th Luke Cavender
35th Alan Smith
45th Ray Dybowski
47th Tom Kachelmeyer
50th Scott Kroske
Also in the race were:
Chris Bogedin
John Sammut
Cory Dubrish

The weather was perfect and the racing was fast, no, I mean really fast! 27.6 mph for 1-1/4 hours on a 0.80 miles course with 6 corners. The race started from the gun and never slowed, the pack was one long line for most of the race. With the pace so high, not many breaks got off the front, and the few that did, didn’t last very long. One rider tried a solo break with 10 laps to go, but was swallowed up before the bell lap. So with the race coming down to a field sprint, the Kenda Pro team lined it up for there sprinter and former Wolverine, Ben Renkema to take the win.

Sunday’s 105 mile Road Race results: 80 starters (4 hours 3 minutes)
11th Luke Cavender
23rd Adam McClounie
24th Alan Smith
25th Cory Dubrish
27th Scott Kroske
29th Chris Bogedin
36th John Sammut
39th Tim Finkel
44th Tom Kachelmeyer
51st Brian Kozeliski
59th Ray Dybowski

Once again the weather was perfect for a long road race. Normally the pack would start off a little slower in a 105 mile road race, but with the first points sprint only 3 miles into the race, things started off rather quick, and picked up speed as we approached the sprint. After the sprint, the pace slowed considerably for the next 10 miles or so. No one seemed interested in attacking so far out from the finish. About 15 miles into the race the attacks started, and didn’t end until a group of 7 got off the front and held a 30 second lead for a while. The pack held them to that lead for a half hour before letting them start to slip away. Many didn’t believe this move would stick considering the distance left to the finish. This group built the lead to a maximum of 6 minutes before the group started to give chase, but by then it was too little too late. The lead group finished 2 minutes clear of the pack. Luke ended up taking 4th in the field sprint for 11th overall.

Ruby Campground XC – Avoca, Michigan (June 14, 2009)

2009-06-16T15:29:00.001-04:00

Wolverine Sports Club/American Cycle & Fitness Elite Mountain Bike Team Race Report

Ruby Campground XC – Avoca, Michigan

Bill Clikeman - Place: 7th Elite Men – Time: 2:08:19 "Generally not concerned in a mountain bike race about having kayakers on the course, but I guess it could happen...shuffling through the river 2 times per lap, steep hills and challenging single track are all part of the fun at Ruby."

Robert Herriman - Place: 8th Elite Men – Time: 2:09:02 "My first ride ever at Ruby. I'd heard Ruby was obnoxiously twisty with crazy steep climbs, scary descents, and bike destroying river crossings. All true. But after a few laps of learning, it all became super fun!!"

Steve Dempsey - Place: 9th Elite Men – Time: 2:11:12 "Haven’t ridden Ruby since I was a wee lad. More fun than I last remember (previously ridden in tsunami-like conditions). Ultra-techy keeps all riders honest. Great to race with the new crew, esp. during the inspirational 4th to 5th lap "gathering" we shared. Pump it up to rip it down."

Amanda Ryan - Place: 3rd Elite Women – Time: 2:11:13 "Ruby is a wickedly sweet technical trail, but a crash while pre-riding the course left me with blood dripping from one elbow and a swollen shoulder at the start, so it was purely survival mode riding. Despite the circumstances, I managed to finish the race and still got on the podium!"

Reported by: Robert Herriman

Weekend of racing - May 30th & 31st

2009-06-04T07:19:00.002-04:00

5/30/09: West Branch Classic Road Race was everything it promised, a 22 mile loop, 1100 ft of climbing per lap, 1.3 mile climb to the finish! The race had great roads, challenging course, wind and a lot of sore legs at the end.

Pro 1/2 race had an early break that stuck until the end frustrating the riders that "rolled the dice" that the break would die in the hills and/or coming back at the end..... At the end 2 riders bested the group, Tim Franham (Bissell Pro) and Alan Antoniuk (Essex Brass). An impressive Wolverine Racing Team train led what was left of the shattered peloton up the hill up the hill picking off some of the stragglers to finish extremely well!

6th Cruise Bogedin
10th Simon Bailey
11th Tom Kachelmeyer
14th Brian Kozeliski
15th Alan Smith
16th Jeff Wienert
All WSC finishers in the top 16, WOW!

Other Categories:
Cat 3: 10th Brett Beddow
12th Scott Fabajanski
17th Pat Robb

Cat 4/5:
2nd Blain Benson
20th Kurt Martin
25th Randy Rodd
43rd Ricardo Cotto

Masters 35+:
2nd Ray Dybowski
8th John Sammut

Woman 1,2,3,4:
12th Maia Orabi
14th Wendy St. Clair

Track 2000 M Talent Pool: (First ever Michigan Points Track Race)
Pro 1/2:
3rd Luke Cavender
4th Cruise Bogedin
10th Scott Kroske
11th Ray Dybowski

Cat 3:
2nd Cullen Watkins
5th Pat Robb
6th Doug Hedges

Cat 4:
1st Doug McKibbons
2nd Blain Benson
3rd Nick Console

Cat 5:
1st Ed Gostin

Womans 1,2,3:
1st Maia Orabi

Masters 45+:
3rd Bob Wydra

Masters 55+:
2nd Tom O'Rourke

Juniors: 1st Nick Console
4th Luke Mullis

Reported by: Ray Dybowski

Brighton - May 30-31, 2008

2009-06-04T07:05:00.002-04:00

Wolverine Sports Club/American Cycle & Fitness Elite Mountain Bike Team Race Report (May 30-31, 2008)
Rider results and comments from the races...
　
Bill Clikeman

Time Trial – Place: 7th Elite Men – Time: 0:29:28 "Blind corners and overgrowth leave me wishing I had more practice on this trail; at race speed it keeps things exciting for sure."

Short Track – Place: 4th Elite Men – Time: 0:21:41 "I was hoping to get a better start, but I was able to work my way up to 4th by mid-race and hang on to my position for the finish."

Cross Country – Place: 6th Elite Men – Time: 2:50:22 "This is a long race compared to other XC races, so I was relieved to have cooler temps. I was by myself after lap 2 but really enjoyed riding the trail and trying to maintain my pace through to the finish."

Combined Overall: Place: 6th Elite Men - Time: 3:41:32 "Overall a unique and fun weekend of racing, and was happy with the results."
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Robert Herriman

Time Trial – Place: 9th Elite Men – Time: 0:30:50 "Some indecision on which bike to race, Superfly vs Fuel EX. Ended up happy I picked the Fuel as it was so easy to control on the out of control twistyness of the torn shirt trail."

Short Track – Place: 8th Elite Men – Time: 0:22:17 "Ouch! 20 minutes in the pain cave can seem like an hour. Near the end of the race I thought I saw Beelzebub taking pictures on that sandy climb. Maybe he has a smugmug account."

Cross Country – Place: 8th Elite Men – Time: 2:54:33 "A freeway closure had me running late but with a 40 mile race I'd just warm up during. Not the best plan as guys rode away at the start. Still, despite my slow start, I had a blast and I was able to improve my position by the finish."

Combined Overall: Place: 8th Elite Men - Time: 3:47:40 "This was my third year in a row doing the Brighton stage race. It always makes for a great weekend of racing and hanging out with friends!!!"
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Amanda Ryan

Cross Country – Place: 1st Elite Women – Time: 2:42:09 "The trail conditions were perfect, but I was a little tired from riding some the day before and could feel it catching up to me by the second lap when my legs started to cramp up, but catching a glimpse of the 2nd place rider trailing behind me forced me to keep pushing myself to go as fast as I could to the finish line."
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Michael Bliss

Time Trial – Place: 10th Expert Men – Time: 0:33:34 "The Torn Shirt trail was optimal. Traffic was a little heavy out there; which made passing a challenge. I like this trail, short but sweet. Made for a good ride."

Short Track – Place: 5th Expert Men – Time: 0:24:13 "A Very intense 24 minutes. A good start makes or breaks your race. So that's what I went for. Somehow managed to stay in front of most of my group. My best finish on the weekend"

Cross Country – Place: 15th Expert Men – Time: 2:59:58 "Strong first two laps. Then came the pain. Murray Lake has such nice flow, that even in your own little world of hurt, your happy. A high 'fun' quotient for this event. Don't miss it next year."

Combined Overall: Place: 10th Expert Men - Time: 3:27:46 "Three races in 2 days, what could be more gratifying? And what a great place to have this event. Good weather made for a great weekend of some fine racing. Can't understate how Brighton can bring on the pain. A don't miss event for sure."
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Patrick Russell

Time Trial – Place: 2nd Elite Singlespeed – Time: 0:30:37 "I made sure I pre rode the course before the race just to keep all the features fresh in my mind. This allowed me to ride conservatively but still keep the speed high. The rain earlier in the week helped eliminate the loose up-hills making a much easier course to ride. My fastest Torn Shirt lap ever."

Short Track – Place: 3rd Elite Singlespeed – Time: 0:23:16 "A tentative start had me working to limit my losses from the start. Once the course opened up I was able to keep the time loss reasonable and finish strong."

Cross Country – Place: 2nd Elite Singlespeed – Time: 1:42:26 "The body didn't feel good before this race but once the race started the legs responded. An easy first lap of posturing led to a big attack into the single track on the second. I was sitting third wheel and ready. I followed the attack and almost made contact with the first place rider. I continued to pour it on trying to gain as much time for the stage result. Pin balling off of trees I managed to finish second and gain enough time to move up to second in the stage results."

Combined Overall – Place: 2nd Elite Singlespeed – Time: 2:36:19 "The top four position were very close going into the XC race. The high speeds and technical course resulted in everyone being bloodied and bruised. The double points make it all worth while. What a blast."

Reported by: Robert Herriman

Bloomer XC – Rochester, MI - May 24th, 2009

2009-05-28T12:34:00.002-04:00

Bloomer XC – Rochester, Michigan

Robert Herriman - Place: 12th Elite Men - Time: 2:36:34 "It was a perfect day, with awesome weather and fast trail conditions. I was rolling in a solid 10th place for the first half of the race but a mechanical slowed me for the 2nd half. I heart mountain biking!!!

Mike Bliss - Place: 8th Expert Men 40-49 - Time: 2:12:20 "Good weather, good race. Typical fast start. Gained some places on the first sled hill climb but gave them back by the end. Classic Bloomer; good fun."

Amanda Ryan - Place: 1st Sport Women 24-Under - Time: 1:42:22 "My first mountain bike race, wow! Why didn't I do this before?!? My shoe came unclipped at the start, but I clipped back in and just kept going as fast as I could for as long as I could. My bike needed new cables and housing and I could definitely tell the difference in it's performance but my final result was still great, 1st place!"

Reported by: Robert Herriman

Waterford Thursday Night Worlds #1 May 7th 2009

2009-05-13T13:31:00.001-04:00

“A” Race (40 Starters)
1st – Chris Bogedin
6th – Jeff Weinert
10th – Ray Dybowski
11th – Brett Beddow
12th – Patrick Robb

Field – John Sammut
John Coats
Matt Baroli
Scott Fabijanski
Cullen Watkins
Tom Kachelmeyer

The skies cleared from the afternoon rain showers just in time to have dry pavement under foot for the start of the Waterford Thursday Night Worlds “A” Race. Our own John Coats started things off fast with an attack from the gun, John quickly opened a gap on the field that he was able to hold for most of the first lap before being brought back by the pack. Many others attempted to get off the front, but nothing stuck until about half way through the race when Jeff got into a 4 man brake that stayed away for 3 laps before Chris and Ray bridged across in 2 separate chase groups, once the group was whittled down to 8, the race was on. This group kept a comfortable lead until the closing laps, then for some reason started coming back to the pack. By the time the pack was winding up it’s sprint we were right on their heels, close enough that we passed 2 of the riders in the lead group before the line. Speaking of close, the race finish was so close that despite having it on video, the officials could not tell who won the sprint for 1st between Chris and Bruce Rivera, so they called it a tie. The first time I have ever seen a tie for 1st.

“B” Race
3rd – Randall Rodd
6th – Ricardo Cotto
9th – Doug McKibbon
11th – Kurt Martin

Field - John Talbot

Cone Azalia: 2nd Michigan Points Race - May 3rd 2009

2009-05-04T13:10:00.004-04:00

Cone Azalia: 2nd Michigan Points Race

7 laps of a 10 mile road course with 4 miles of gravel road. Hard pack bumpy to 2" rocky/gravel and wind always makes Cone-Azalia one of the hardest road races in Michigan. You need skills, tactics, and a little luck to do well.

Cat 1/2 Race:

The race started with the usual first selection on the dirt roads, flats galore. Our 12 man squad lost 4 riders in the first 7 miles including one of our hopeful contenders Tim Finkel. Alan Smith sacrificed his chances and stopped to switch wheels with Tim, then Tim gave chase. With a little luck the pack slowed, Cruise, Adam and Ray sat on the back waiting for Tim to get close and then dropped back to help him close the last part.

The next few laps included many attempts to crack the field and none succeeded until Cruise Bogedin escaped in a 3 person break. About 1/2 lap later Tim Finkel found himself in 4 person break that caught the "Cruise break". At 7 strong they were gone!

The next selection was an 8 person break including Luke Cavender, Cory Dubrish and Simon Bailey. Then the "Cone-Selection" knocked Cory and Simon out of the break.

In the winning break attacks were going like crazy, Cruise and Tim stayed controlled and at the line it was Cruise earning the WIN and Tim getting secon! d. WOW... great result for a tough race!

Wolverine / American Cycle & Fitness Cat 1/2 placings:
1) Cruise Bogedin
2) Tim Finkel
12) Luke Cavender
14) Scott Kroske
18) Simon Bailey
22) Cory Dubrish
24) Ray Dybowski
25) Alan Smith
29) Adam McClounie
30) Jeff Weinert
31) Matt Baroli
35) John Sammut

Results not posted but others I know:

Cat 3 Placings:
3) Pat Robb
8) Scott Fabijanski

Cat 4 placings:
19) Brett Beddow

Cat 5 placings:
3) Nick Console
5) Ricardo Cotto

Reported by: Ray Dybowski

Pontiac Lake MTB TT – Waterford, Michiga - April 26, 2009

2009-05-04T13:04:00.001-04:00

Wolverine Sports Club/American Cycle & Fitness Elite Mountain Bike Team Race Report (April 26, 2009)
Pontiac Lake MTB TT – Waterford, Michigan

Bill Clikeman - Place: 4th Elite Men - Time: 1:20:47 "It was nice to be able to start the race season at a familiar trail; the slippery sections kept it challenging, and I was happy to end up with 4th place."

Robert Herriman - Place: 8th Elite Men - Time: 1:23:56 "Overnight storms left some greasy spots and one small lake. I put my feet on the top tube, and coasted through that giant puddle, made quite a splash! What a fun day!!"

Jeff Weinert - Place: 13th Elite Men - Time: 1:29:56 "Decided to race singlespeed in Elite, my first MTB race since Iceman 07'. Had a great start and felt great until a flat rear tire, just after 2 mile hill. Had a slow change with all the extras that go into a singlespeed and lost motivation to fight. After that I just rolled around the rest of the race having fun along the way. :-)"

Simon Bailey - Place: 12th Expert Men 30-39 - Time: 1:35:23 "With a new bike and a great road race a week before I was sure I'd to have a good ride. But it wasn't to be! Started off fine, but the slippery surface proved I’m still lacking mtb skills. Dug deep to stay with my partner for lap one. Lap two, blew up and lost time. Back to the drawing board."

Mike Bliss - Place: 8th Expert Men 40-49 - Time: 1:32:28 "Yes, it was a mudfest, but at least the sun was out. I had a fast race, only passed by one racer. I cleaned most of the critical sections for a nice ride. I was pleased that I remembered to kick-it on every downhill to max out my speed for the subsequent section."

Pat Russell - Place: 2nd Elite/Expert Single Speed - Time: 0:40:37 "I kept the effort manageable until 2 mile hill. After that I let it fly. Passed by my start partner on the last hill but managed to re-pass and hold him off. Even though I beat him at the finish, I finished 0.353 seconds slower sensor to sensor. Next time I won't take the hole-shot."

Reported by: Robert Herriman

Ann Arbor Training Race # 3 “A’s” race 4-19-09

2009-04-21T13:20:00.004-04:00

Results:
1st – Luke Cavender
2nd – Simon Bailey
4th – Tim Finkel
6th – Scott Kroske
8th – John Sammut
9th – Brett Beddow
10th – Pat Robb

Other Wolverines in the race:
Ray Dybowski
Brent DelRosario
Scott Fabijanski
Adam McClounie
Matt Baroli
Paul Neff
Rob Akers

50 Starters in the “A” race.

The race started under overcast skies with the threat of rain and a temperature of 54º. Fortunately for all of the racers the rain held off, unfortunately for the rest of the pack, Simon did not, he was on the attack from the gun, and although the pack brought him back, it didn’t discourage him, he was in almost every serious break of the day. If there was an award for the most aggressive rider for the day, Simon would have walked away with it. Simon was also in the winning group of 7 riders that got away late in the race that also included Luke and Tim. Simon broke away from the lead group with 2 laps to go and forced the other teams to chase setting up Luke for the win while Simon was able to hold off the hard changing field for hard earned 2nd place. With Luke taking the win, his second in as many weeks, this will assure him the overall win in the Spring Training Series. Oh yes, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that Tim continues to ride strong and got yet another 4th place.

John

First weekend of racing - 2009

2009-03-30T13:13:00.001-04:00

Report from Waterford Hills Race track training race. 4-28-09

The short:
“C” Race
4th – Amanda Ryan (Her 1st race ever)
15th – Myles Davis (His 1st race ever)
16th – Tracii Haynes (Her 1st race ever)

“B” Race
4th – Randy Rodd
5th – Ricardo Cotto (His 1st race ever)
7th – Doug McKibbon (His 1st race ever)

“A” Race
1st – Ray Dybowski
3rd – Luke Cavender
4th – Chris Bogedin
9th – Pat Robb
11th – Tim Finkle
15th – Scott Kroske

The “C” race started off very fast with one rider going solo from the gun, the pack never caught him. The rest of the group stayed together for a bunch sprint for 2nd place with Amanda taking 3rd in the field sprint for 4th overall. Tracii and Myles were split off the back of the pack during the race, but toughed it out to finish there first ever race.

As coach Ray had predicted, the “B” race had a few break away attempts, but nothing stuck, and the race ended in a large group sprint for the line. Ricardo probably would have finished better in his first race if he had stayed on the pavement for the sprint.

The “A” race started out with a parade lap to honor Tim Finkel’s brother. The race started on lap 2 at a moderate pace with a few attacks, but nothing stuck until better than half way through the race when a few riders went off the front, then a few more, then a couple more until the front group swelled to 7, then the race was on. It stayed that way to the end. With less than ½ lap to go, Ray rolled off of the side of the group while everyone else sat back and watched. One rider (Ben) tried to close the gap at the end, but his effort came up short.

Ann Arbor Training race. 4-29-09

“A” Race
Tim – 5th
Ray – 8th
Brett – 9th (He won the field sprint, and is only 16 years old)

Iceman - Kalkaska, Michigan - Nov. 8, 2008

2008-11-20T17:33:00.002-05:00

Wolverine Sports ClubMountain Bike Team Race Report (Nov. 8, 2008)

Iceman - Kalkaska, Michigan

Tim Finkel - Place: 31st Pro Men - Time: 1:36:21 "The course was fast rolling and tenacious from the gun to the finish line. My positioning in the hole shot was about as bad as it can get but I tried to pick up as many spots as I could throughout the race. Overall I am satisfied with my time and the entire weekend was another great experience to add to the books…until next year."

Cruise Bogedin - Place: 32nd Pro Men - Time: 1:36:22 "A poor start position left me few opportunities to pass during the chaos of the first few miles. Once the field thinned out I went into TT mode to pass as many people as I could. I eventually caught a group around mile 10 that had Tim in it. I felt great the whole race and I'm satisfied with my time. Next year I'll make sure to have a better start."

Kelly Paterson - Place: 19th Pro Women - Time: 2:09:27 "My goal was to start out last and finish last so I could have the whole trail to myself. I had a great time without working too hard. The dirt and decaying leaves smelled great, the hail was refreshing, and the wicked downhills were a blast."

Patrick Russell - Place: 4th Singlespeed Men 39 & Under - Time: 1:46:57 "The top three singlespeeders gapped the field within the first three miles leaving me in no-mans-land. I rode the remainder checking the rear wheel of every racer I passed hoping to see only one cog. I was able to keep a high pace and meet all my goals for the race."

Thomas Markley - Place: 10th Expert Men 45-49 - Time: 1:48:27 "Classic Iceman …took the advice of a friend and raced my age group… While I think my time would have been faster run’n with the Pro’s; it was awesome to Road Rally back to the start, then to the mid-point (Williamsburg) and then hang out at the finish line, to watch some top ranked Pro’s battle it out… Great day!"

Simon Bailey - Place: 26th Expert Men 35-39- Time: 1:50:58 "This is an awesome race - I'll definitely be back next year for another try and with a little experience on what to expect I think I can prepare better and ride faster because I definitely went out too fast and suffered over the final hour of the race. What should I have expected after only racing 45min cross races for the past two months!"

Tim Devost - Place: 19th Expert Men 45-49 - Time: 1:52:49 "Almost perfect conditions. The start put me mid-pack. Settled in and started picking riders off. 5 miles in I latched onto a group of 6 - the push was on! Mile 18 the group started to break up and I passed em as we crested a hill. Mile 23 my right shifter came loose and was dangling by it's cable. Iceman is such a great venue! And the beer wasn't too bad either!"

Doug McKibbon - Place: 42nd Expert Men 40-44 - Time: 1:55:41 “After falling in the first sand pit, I regained my composure, and began settling into my pace, passing people throughout the race. I felt strong on the hills, and was glad to finish my first Expert race, and first Iceman. A great weekend, for sure. My kids will be doing the Snow Cone race next year.”

Cody Brown - Place: 15th Expert Men 19-29 - Time: 1:56:00

Scott Kroske - Place: 26th Expert Men 45-49 - Time: 1:56:21 "Fast start, adrenaline kept me in the lead group for a few miles, got dropped on a climb, took back positions on flats, lost ground lugging my fat ass up those hills. Great having so many Wolverines in one race."

Scott Dill - Place: 47th Expert Men 35-39 - Time: 1:56:56 “I started in the back of the expert group, which was a mistake, but finished the second half better than the first. Of course I had hoped to go a bit faster, that will just give me incentive to train a bit harder. Overall it was a fast race that had great energy and camaraderie with the Wolverine Team.”

Alan Smith - Place: 29th Expert Men 30-34 - Time: 1:59:42 "I was sitting about 10th wheel overall for experts 19-34. On the first significant downhill with 17 miles to go, I heard the sound of catastrophic carbon failure as my handlebar snapped. Hard crash, scraped myself off the ground, pedaled my broken bike in, sans R brake and R shifter, and still almost beat my time from last year. Bad race, good story, great weekend!"

John Sammut - Place: 71st Expert Men 40-44 - Time: 2:03:55 "My first ever Iceman! Conditions were good. Despite a few mechanical, I had a great time. I was hoping for a little better finish time, but that just gives me a goal for next year. I will be back!"

Luke Cavender/ Rippin - Place: 1st S/E Tandems - Time: 1:49:13 “The course was really fast and smooth and no traffic until we hit the singletrack and yes single bikes were holding the tandem up. After that it was smooth sailing to the finish. We hope to race with the pros next year. Watch out Tim the tandem is coming to town.”

Ray Dybowski - Place: 6th Sport/Expert Clydesdales - Time: 1:50:54 "Won the hole shot, crashed in the same early sand pit as last year and like last year had to chase like crazy. The fast course made all us Clyedales roll well. Next years the 20th Iceman and will be my 19th attempt for a victory, I think I'll get it!"

Patricia Covert - Place: 3rd Sport/Expert Women 45+ - Time: 2:06:51 "The weather was better than expected with temps 40 degrees & a few sprinkles. The start caught me off guard as I was fiddling with my watch. I got back into the thick of things & started working my way up. I fell twice, my chain came off once, and I had a great time!"

Scott Fabijanski - Place: 3rd Sport Men 40-43 - Time: 1:54:11 "I managed to get the hole shot, roll off the front, and get out of sight while 100 spirited sport racers gave chase. Once out of sight I put the Wolverine hammer down riding solo until mile 25 where I was caught by a couple of riders to finish 3rd. My Trek Fuel EX never let me down."

Tim Grose - Place: 2nd Sport Men 50-54 - Time: 2:02:51 "Karma was definitely with me. Finished second out of ninety plus riders in my category. Got off to a terrific start and managed to stay with a lead group of five riders. All those Wolverine road rides definitely paid off! Still had something left at the end and managed to clear "Anita's Hill" and "Icebreaker". This was my fifteenth consecutive Iceman. It was a total blast!”

Benjamin Wilks - Place: 10th Sport Men 30-33 - Time: 2:04:19 "First surprise was the decent weather. Chilly and drizzle, but overall a good day for racing. If I had to do it over, I'd move a level up...there were a number of times I got stuck behind groups, but I really don't have any complaints. One of the best weekends in quite awhile! Wish I'd known about the party bus...may have to streak it next year."

Jason Mulawa - Place: 11th Sport Men 25-29 - Time: 2:06:24"What a great race! Started out well, sitting in second heading into the single track. Mechanical ending up slowing me down and dropped me well off the lead. Ended up passing a lot of people, hoping they were from my group but no luck. Pretty satisfied as I crossed the line in 11th for my first Iceman/first race ever.”

John Talbot - Place: 11th Sport Men 47-49 - Time: 2:10:02 “Got to the start with 5 minutes to go, no warm-up. My goal, top 20. Rolled the start and after 5-10 minutes started moving through my field. Stopped to kiss my wife at the uphill feed station (didn't lose any places) Rode steady to the finish and got 4 guys from the last turn to the finish line. Felt great! Excellent way to end the season.”

Doug Hedges - Sport Men 40-43 – DNF “Our wave was one of the largest, so passing was difficult, but my Gary Fisher Tassajara was up to the task. I pushed hard and passed riders both where I could and probably shouldn't. Then at the same hill that snapped Alan's handlebar, I took out my yet-to-heal collarbone and my race came to an abrupt end. Still, an awesome event! Looking forward to next year.”

Reported by: Robert Herriman

Munson Park CX - Monroe, Michigan - Nov. 16th 2008

2008-11-20T17:29:00.000-05:00

Wolverine Sports Club/American Cycle & Fitness Elite Mountain Bike Team Race Report (Nov. 16, 2008)

Munson Park CX - Monroe, Michigan

Simon Bailey - Place: 5th Masters 35+ - Time: 0:45:30 "All I can say is that I'm glad I was not riding the B Race! It snowed before my event (for the B's) and after my event (for the A's). I got a pleasant 45mins of clear skies trying to loose as little time as possible to Don Cameron and Rich Stark. In the end, I battled for 4th place with Matt Baroli and lost another sprint."

Patrick Russell - Place: 7th B-Men - Time: 0:47:30 "I was able to stay close to the top five for the first lap but I could feel the power in the legs slipping away quickly. The next couple laps I fell to around 10th place. Once the blizzard hit I was able to make up a few spots and catch the 7th place rider. I was able to pass him and hold him off until the finish."

Scott Fabijanski - Place: 9th B-Men - Time: 0:47:48 "A tale of two races, half dry and half white-out blizzard. Unfortunately, my brain didn't process the condition change as I went careening onto my side while being passed by my teammate in the next to last lap. Almost certain I caught him smiling. Gave chase but was unable to gain the position."

Reported by: Robert Herriman

Dragon Gap "Fall Harvest" XC - Lake Orion, MI - Oct. 26, 2008

2008-10-29T16:27:00.000-04:00

Wolverine Sports Club/American Cycle & Fitness Elite Mountain Bike Team Race Report (Oct. 26, 2008)

Dragon Gap "Fall Harvest" XC - Lake Orion, MI

Tim Finkel - Place: 1st Advanced Men 20 to 29 "The course was an interesting mix of cyclo-cross style, double track, and single track. Joey B. set the pace high from the gun. After sitting on Joe’s wheel for the first lap, we’d left the field long behind. Later in the race I came out of my pedal, and Joe got away. Kept the gap to Joe close but was unable to catch him. I was quite satisfied with my result, and glad I rode my Trek Top Fuel 9.9 as the course was fairly rough."

Peak to Peak XC - Thompsonville, MI - Oct. 18, 2008

2008-10-29T16:24:00.001-04:00

Wolverine Sports Club/American Cycle & Fitness Elite Mountain Bike Team Race Report (Oct. 18, 2008)

Peak to Peak XC - Thompsonville, MI

Fabrice Portes - Place: 3rd Sport 40-49 - Time: 1:31:13 "Right from the start I felt good and stayed with the lead group. Lots of passing, it was good to just follow fast wheels. I moved up on the loooong ski run climb but we regrouped in the second lap. I knew my chance would be the hills, but unable to pass and we were all tied again on the ski hill. Kamikaze downhill but missed 2nd by one second. Great location and great race for the entire Portes family !"

Lower Huron Cyclo-Cross – Belleville, Michigan - Oct. 19, 2008

2008-10-21T11:51:00.002-04:00

Wolverine Sports Club/American Cycle & Fitness Elite Mountain Bike Team Race Report (Oct. 19, 2008)
Lower Huron Cyclo-Cross – Belleville, Michigan

Christian Tanguy - Place: 3rd Elite Men - Time: 55:04 "Although I went much faster from the start, many racers went around me. I was around 10th but within 2-3 laps I moved up to 5th. It took me the remainder of the race to catch the next 2 racers. I opened the gap for 3rd place only with 1/4 lap remaining. Ouch, the legs still hurt from the run-up. Thanks for everybody cheering me up; it was great."

Simon Bailey - Place: 2nd Masters 35+ - Time: 44:35 "I really enjoyed the course today - I felt pretty comfortable in 2nd and 3rd position throughout the race and was planning an attack on the steep hill run on the final lap to make my move for 1st but unfortunately, so was the rider behind me. He jumped first and I could not chase him back. I then narrowly hung on to 2nd in a sprint finish."

Scott Fabijanski - Place: 11th B-Men - Time: 48:16 "A fall in a practice lap on some wet leaves found me riding a little to cautious during this race. I was behind a crash in the first lap that left a gap. My confidence started to come back as I began passing riders but the effort was a little late in the race. Still a good race, good weather and great people."

Patrick Russell - Place: 18th B-Men - Time: 49:57 "An early first lap flat had me in last place and chasing the field. I was able to catch and pass 6 riders before the finish. At least I was able to put in a solid effort and finish the race."

Brett Beddow - Place: 5th C Men 39-U - Time: 34:00 "Another great day and great race! I made the mistake of getting excited and leading the first lap at a brisk pace. I got passed on the first run up but was able to maintain my position in 4th place. On the last lap, I had a minor spill on the wet leaves and lost one position and finished in 5th place."

Stony Creek Cyclo-Cross - Oct. 5, 2008

2008-10-10T08:05:00.001-04:00

Wolverine Sports Club/American Cycle & Fitness Elite Mountain Bike Team Race Report (Oct. 5, 2008)

Stony Creek Cyclo-Cross – Shelby Twp., Michigan

Christian Tanguy - Place: 8th Elite Men - Time: 0:55:05 "I had a decent start but didn't wanted to go full out from the beginning. From around 11th place, I worked my way up to 6th. A small fall in last quarter of the race cost me a few seconds allowing 2 persons to go by. I was closing the gap very slowly and almost caught the rider in front of me. I was only 1 sec behind. Good workout and great time!"

Bill Clikeman - Place: 13th Elite Men - Time: 0:57:24 "After a few laps of mixing it up in a group of 6, Robert and I we were able to pull away and work together to ride consistent, strong laps. On the last lap at the long sand-pit, we were rapidly catching a rider; I was able to pass him in the final section and hold the position in a sprint finish. Didn't realize Robert had crashed, fortunately he was able to finish."

Robert Herriman - Place: 15th Elite Men - Time: 0:57:44 "The absolutely gorgeous fall day left me no excuse to pass on the suffering. The race was really fun. Bill and I worked together the entire race. Well, until the last lap when I crashed, head and shoulder, into a sign. Yeah, that left a mark."

Simon Bailey - Place: 5th Masters 35+ - Time: 0:42:06 "I had a great start and stayed in 2nd place throughout the first lap, but the sand was my downfall! I couldn't ride through it and had to waste energy pushing my bike when others were riding. By the end I'd managed to hang onto 5th and tried to go for 4th by attacking after the sand section. I seemed to get the gap but he came back strong and outsprinted me."

Patrick Russell - Place: 5th B Men - Time: 0:43:39 "A good start had me bouncing around in the top six the entire race. I tried to make a move with three laps to go but I didn't have enough gas to create a gap. I couldn't respond to the attack on the next lap but managed to hold on to fifth place."

Scott Fabijanski - Place: 10th B Men - Time: 0:45:02 "I started out into the first corner 7th place. I was able to maintain some consistent lap times but found myself loosing position shortly after each long sand run. By the time I got to the pavement on the last lap, I had closed the gap within sprinting distance. The sprint began , He had a mechanical and I rolled 10th place. A good day of racing."

Brett Beddow - Place: 6th C-MEN 39-Under - Time: 0:28:02"I was told it was going to hurt but I didn't know that it would hurt that bad! My main goal was to just finish in the top 20 but I was able to maintain my position off the start for most of the race and I ended up in 6th place. The gear I had put on was a bit tough but overall, I had a lot of fun!"

Reported by: Robert Herriman

Ithaca GP of Cyclocross – September 28th, 2008

2008-10-02T16:16:00.001-04:00

Wolverine Sports Club/American Cycle & Fitness
Elite Mountain Bike Team
Race Report (Sep. 28, 2008)

Ithaca GP of Cyclocross – Ithaca, Michigan

Patrick Russell - Place: 2nd "B" Men
"After loosing the uphill prime by half a wheel I settled in. Tried to keep the pace high and not hit the ground. Three laps to go I put in a couple bursts. I was able to open gaps but they were always closed. Then through the amphitheater of pain the rider in third attacked and opened a gap I could never close."

Scott Fabijanski - Place: 5th "B" Men
"I was 5th at the top of the uphill sprint start and held my position to the end. The course was dry, fast and fun. A great grassroots CX race, awesome course, music and prizes. A really well run event. I will definitely return next year."

Stony Creek MTB XC 9-7-08

2008-09-12T10:51:00.001-04:00

Wolverine Sports Club/American Cycle & Fitness Elite Mountain Bike Team Race Report (Sep. 7, 2008)

Stony Creek MTB XC – Shelby Twp., Michigan

Patrick Russell - Place: 5th Expert/Elite Singlespeed - Time: 1:39:05 “Once again the course conditions improved greatly the morning of the race. By the start, the course was super fast. After the first lap I just focused on my technique on the single track and tried to put in consistent lap times.”

Brian Kozeliski - Place: 5th Sport Men 35-39 - Time: 1:38:22 "The trail conditions where much better than anticipated by the time we started. I was rather conservative on the single track, but had a great time."

John Talbot - Place: 9th Sport Men 45-49 - Time: 1:53:10 “Enjoyed the ride with a few stops to eat. Great single track. I found out the hard way not to brake on muddy bridges. Thanks to American Cycle and Fitness for loaning me a Gary Fisher Pro Caliber while my bike was out of commission.”

Reported by: Robert Herriman

What the team has been doing for the last 6 weeks

2008-09-10T12:45:00.004-04:00

Ok, This is what the team have been doing over the last 6 weeks (writing race reports was not one of them) These are just the numbers, no stories go with them.

State Crit State Championship – Ada, MI 8-2-08
Pro 1-2
7th Ray Dybowski
13th Luke Cavender
14th Cory Dubrish
16th Cruise Bogedin
27th John Sammut
DNF Danny Klien
DNF
Cat 3
3rd Alan Smith
12th John Coates
22nd Scott Kroske
Master 30+
11th John Sammut
Master 45+
32nd Ray Dybowski

Waterford training race 8-7-08
“A” Race
1st Danny Klein
4th Ray Dybowski
11th Scott Kroske
“B” Race
1st Brett Beddow

BTR Crit. in Kalamazoo 8-9-08
Pro 1-2 Race
3rd Danny Klein
9th Ray Dybowski
12th John Sammut
14th Cruise Bogedin
DNF Brian Kozeliski
Master 35+
4th Ray Dybowski
11th John Sammut
Cat 3
3rd Cody Brown
8th Alan Smith
10th Scott Kroske
24th Doug Hedges
Cat 5
5th Brett Beddow
Jr. Men
5th Brett Beddow

Trophee de Grimpeurs 8-30-08
Pro 1-2
DNF Danny Klein
Cat 3-4
1st John Coates
3rd Alan Smith
10th Scott Kroske
Masters 40+
4th Ray Dybowski
8th John Sammut
10th Tim Faas
Jr. 15-18 Men
1st Brett Beddow

Tour di Via Italia 8-31-08
Master 1, Senior 3
11th Scott Kroske
40th John Talbet
Senoir Women
5th Renee Schroeder
Pro 1-2
19th Cory Dubrish
27th Adam McClounie
40th Ray Dybowski

Depaits-Devos 43rd annual crit. 9-1-08
Pro 1-2-3
22nd Luke Cavender
25th Cory Dubrish
42nd Adam McClounie
DNF Ray Dybowski
DNF Danny Klein
Masters 35+
1st Danny Klein
13th John Sammut
Master 45+
22nd Ray Dybowski
Cat 3
10th Scott Kroske
19th John Coates
29th Alan Smith
Jr. 15-18 Men
5th Brett Beddow
Cat 4
12th Brett Beddow

Waterford training race 9-4-08
“A” Race
1st Danny Klein
5th Tim Finkel
6th John Sammut
7th Brett Beddow
Pack Alan Smith
Pack Ray Dybowski
DNF Luke Cavender

Priority Health Cycling Classic Grand Rapids 9-6-08
Masters 40+
2nd John Coyle
19th Danny Klein
28th Ray Dybowski
Cat. 2-3
1st John Coyle
30th Brent DelRosario’
43rd Tim Finkel
46th Cory Dubrish

Priority Health Cycling Classic Ann Arbor 9-7-08
Cat. 2-3
8th Cory Dubrish
21st Tim Finkel
DNF John Sammut
DNF Luke Cavender
DNF Ray Dybowski
DNF Scott Kroske