The LAST COTR – Newsletter for 2017. #12 – Powered by MAZDA then cleaned, prepped and put away with Muc Off. #COTR2017

A MAJOR thanks to MAZDA for continuing their title sponsorship of the COTR series.
I hope you had a chance to say thanks to Sean Voigt from Mazda at Beban park for supporting Cross on the Rock. If you have not checked out the MAZDA line up them out on line by clicking the link above.

First thing first. Please take 5 minutes and 45 seconds (average response time) to fill out our end-of-year COTR survey. This helps us shape future race seasons, gather valuable feedback, support sponsors and gives us one more change for you to win a sweet prize package (2 to be given away).

2017 COTR Year and Survey HERE

This week’s Cool Downs:

One of our favourite shots of the season. Almost the full record breaking Expert Women category got together for a photo after their race. Organized by Glenowyn.

IN THIS NEWSLETTER:

  1. This series does not happen without the support from.
  2. Beban Park’s Hot Crossed Bunnies Series Final
  3. Norm’s Notes
  4. The Study-Build Youth COTR Sponsorship Program Details (one last time)
  5. First Look…..Save these dates for 2018

1. This series does not happen without the support from.

SERIES SPONSORS
Title Sponsor: Mazda
Presenting and main prizing Sponsor: Muc Off
Sponsor for the Victoria races: Pro–Pearl Izumi–Shimano
Super Masters Men’s Category Sponsors Island Cycles
Corey and Sean from Rock City Cycles Nanaimo
Peter Creighton from Cycles Lambert/Muc OFF
Phillips Brewery for their continued support for the Single Speed category and series prizes for all categories (including Root Beer for the youth).
Frontrunners who let me race and organize
Nutcase do a great job supporting the little kid races
KONA the sponsor of the Kona Kup
Trek Bikes Victoria. Pro City Cycles for Topaz
Wade Luksay Riverway Dental (Youth Category Sponsors giving CASH to these little up coming racers at the series final. We hope they were PUMPED)
Andreas and Danielle from Study Build from Quadra Island who are sponsoring the Youth race for FREE program
And Sam Wittingham from Naked Bikes….because he is SAM

Along with these series sponsors each race had a tonne of local sponsors from each community that we tried to give recognition to after each of the events. This is an ISLAND series and the past support we have received from our island community is awesome. Lets keep it up in the future as it is what drives this series and makes it special. PLEASE SUPPORT THE SPONSORS. These are local businesses and companies that support local businesses. On-line companies, amazon, big business (besides Shimano) do NOT support community events.

This is what an amazing prize table looks like at the end of the race season with support from our sponsors. We estimate that we gave away over $25,000 worth of stuff over the course of the race series this year. (Paul Brend working in the back ground finishing up the trophies)

2. Beban Park’s Hot Crossed Bunnies Series Final

Notes from: MIVA and Race Director Ron Hewitson

Thanks to all the racers, volunteers and Norm for making the Beban race the best one yet. The feedback especially on the course design was excellent and fun. People especially liked the sand and areas behind the red barn, and BMX. All of which had great viewing!

Thanks to Mary Smith from City of Nanaimo Parks and Rec for working with us to make this happen. Also to the folks from Nanaimo B.M.X, the VIEX and Nanaimo Equestrian Association as they sublease parts of Beban Park from the city and were very cooperative to work with.

Thanks to Andrea and staff from AJ’s Food Truck. I had a house burger and it was amazing!

Also thanks to Riot Brewing for setting up and hosting the beer gardens. You never go wrong with Riot.

There was only one medical situation when young Zachary Loveless crashed hard in the BMX. Ryan and Adam from our medical support Medix raced in to begin their initial assessment. I really appreciated the care they took and professionalism they displayed when they deferred the case to EMS. The local fire truck came and they deferred it to the ambulance. I’m glad to report that Zachary is OK. Nothing Broken.

Last but not least a special thanks to Norm and the MIVA crew especially president Patrick, Phil and past prez Mike for stepping up and doing the lion’s share of the work. Also to all the volunteers who helped with set up, course marshalling, timing, registration, tear down and all the other small but important tasks that make an event like this run smoothly. We couldn’t have done it without you!

3. Norm’s Notes

  • The last race of the year is always a bit more work. That combined with having the last race at Beban by my club…..and it was even more than normal. I always take a bit more “responsibility” when a race is a Beban as it is the first course we ever used and I want things to go well. It has a lot of “eyes” on it. I was really impressed with the number of people that came together to help out when the last race was done to do as much remediation as possible on Saturday. Thank you!
  • This series is a massive amount of work. We have 8 groups that each put on events and then the council of cross that tries to pull it all together to make it work. In the middle of it all I am puling on all the kite strings to make it fly. Getting it off the ground is one thing. Flying is another. This year I feel like the COTR series is starting to soar. 12 years in the making. Thank you all for supporting the series. It has always been about the racers. It is about competition. It is about community. It is about fun. You make it happen.
  • Behind the scenes there are always people pulling everything together. At the front of each race are the race directors. This year they were:
    • Scott Mitchell
    • Drew MacKenzie
    • Tara and Mike Pollock
    • Dave Nowak and Chris Sykes
    • Corey and Sean from Rock City Cycles
    • Roy Kregosky
    • Ron Hewitson and Patrick Burnham
  • Hugely involved with the series as well is our timing, stats and web site crew. Patrick Burnham, Roland Rabien and Brett Whitehead keep things up to date and accurate for the results, awards and web site.
  • Getting our trophies designed, built and delivered were Jamie Cameron and Paul Brend
  • Did you see the new stat on your athlete page? After adding “Time on course” Roland has now added “Average placing” (with standard deviations of course). Roland is always upgrading the stats!

4. The Study-Build Youth COTR Sponsorship Program Details (One last time)

Deadline for applications for this is This FRIDAY. November 24th. 6:00pm.

A reminder of the GENEROUS Youth sponsorship program from Study-Build.

Quadra Island based Study-Build will again be supporting and paying for YOUTH racers (up to 19 year old) for COTR this year.

Here are the requirements:

  • The racer must participate in 7 or 8 of the eight races this year to qualify for free entries (Under “extraordinary” circumstances less than 7 races may be considered)
  • For the reimbursement at end of season the racer (NOT the PARENTS) will need to submit a request. It is important that this request come from the racer. We KNOW the parents have paid in most cases but we are trying to help build responsible little COTR racers!!
  • Study-Build will then mail a cheque to the racer.

LINK TO THE GOOGLE FORM TO FILL OUT

5. First Look…..Save these dates for 2018

OK. We always publish this on the last newsletter. And on our Web site. BUT we ALWAYS get e-mails asking when the races are. Dates. Details. SO despite the fact that a lot of people ignore what we publish here is how the series is shaping up for 2018.

Year #13 of COTR.

This is a SOLID draft at this point. There might be some small variations BUT unlikely that everything would change!

Race #1: Season opener September 9th. Victoria. Currently: Topaz Pre-race day race number and chip pick up at Pro City from 5:00 – 8:00. Same as the last 2 years.

Race #2: September 16th…..back in Cumberland with the Saturday NIGHT pub/taco race. (Moving up 2 weeks from this year)

Race #3: September 30th: Qualicum Beach. Group favourite! (earlier)

Race #4: October 8th: Bowen Park Nanaimo (Status Quo) (YES this is a MONDAY)

Race #5: October 21st: Port Alberni. The return of P.A. Currently one of two possible venues.

Race #6: October 28th. Crosstoberfest. MID island. Either at Cowichan Exhibitions, Sun Fest or Ladysmith.

Race #7: November 4th SINGLE HEADER at MIVA’s choice Venue. Arbutus Meadows or back at Beban

(Nationals champs on the 10th in Peterborough)

Race #8: Series final. November 17th Seaanich Fairgrounds OR Speedway for the final race of the year. Need to confirm venue. But in Victoria. Bookending the race season with Victoria races.

So it would go

2 weekends in a row.
1 weekend off
2 weekends in a row (8 days between)
1 weekend off (crossfondo)
2 weekends in a row
1 off
and then Series final.

6 Sundays
1 Monday
1 Saturday.

This fits closely with our Survey responses from 2016 for days preferred for COTR races. Around 80% said Sunday…..so we are at 75%. Not bad!

THAT IS IT FOR US for 2017!

The Council of cross signing off until next August. We are always on FB though updating that all the time. Thanks for a GREAT race season. Don’t forget to do the survey!

Who won the Naked Frameset?

Well it was Rowan Belanger who won the AMAZING frame from Naked bikes and Sam Whittingham. Instantly making her the envy of all others!!

Congratulations!

Parting Shot for 2018. These races do NOT happen by themselves. Behind EVERY SINGLE COTR race there is a huge support crew. Here is a shot of a strong crew from MIVA out Sunday morning in driving rain checking the course over and doing remediation. Thanks to EVERYONE that pitched in this year to make COTR what it is!

COTR – Newsletter 2017 #11 – Powered by MAZDA then cleaned and prepped by Muc Off. #COTR2017

A MAJOR thanks to MAZDA for continuing their title sponsorship of the COTR series.
If you see Sean Voigt at Beban park this weekend (he will be there) please say “thanks” to him and Mazda for supporting Cross on the Rock. If you have not checked out the MAZDA line up them out on line by clicking the link above.

This week’s Warm Ups:

  • Start your Wednesday off RIGHT. Check out Jon Wakin’s edit from Days of Thunder here
  • You might have noticed that we “kind of” like stats at COTR. Well Roland has added a new one to stats page and to every racers page as well. Check out “Time on course” with the top 10 on the stats page and then your individual time on course on your racer page.
  • Tycho and Tessa will have something new this weekend. It is not something you purchase. It is not something you eat. It is not something you build. BUT you will need $1. Make sure you have a $1 coin with you when you go to registration on Saturday.
  • Did you have a chance to check the edit from Ted Hobby. Day’s of Thunder
  • Saturday night (one of the reasons it is a good idea to have a race on a Saturday Night). Rock City Cycles will be hosting a CX – POST COTR PARTY. #None to go. 7:30pm doors open. Beer and snacks.
  • #COTR2017-1-to-go

COTR MERCHANDISE (This is what we have left for Saturday)
We have the following inventory left of merchandise for the season:

T Shirts 2017 Version ($20):
Youth sizes: 6 (very small for ‘lil nutcases) 2, Medium: 7, Youth 12: 1
Women: Medium: 6, Large: 2
Men: Small: 8, Medium: 9, Large: 6

T Shirt 2016 Version ($10): Men’s Large: 6, Men’s Medium: 2, Women’s Medium: 1

Socks ($20) (Small/Medium only-Fit up to a size 9 mens or women’s 10): 6 Left

Hats ($25)(Black on the front and white on the back): 6 Left

Last chance to buy merchandise (read “Christmas Presents”) will be at Hot Crossed Bunnies.

IN THIS NEWSLETTER:

  1. Beban Park’s Hot Crossed Bunnies.
  2. Norm’s Notes
  3. The Study-Build Youth COTR Sponsorship Program Details
  4. Practice Groups are still happening (but fading quickly with the light)

1. Beban Park’s Hot Crossed Bunnies

With this coming race being the LAST race of #COTR2017 we need to make sure as much is dialled in a head of time.

Bowen park is a VERY active park. Please be considerate and aware of other park users while we are using this facility.

First thing to check is make sure that your series standing is correct. This is the ranking that will be used to determine start order on Saturday. The link to the current standings are here.

Second have a look at this sneak peak for the series. This is how the battles of the season will be determined when the mud is cleaned off on Saturday. This is the current series standings WITH your lowest score dropped if you have done all of the races for the year. Check it out here

Just for fun (and because he can) Roland also has done up series points for the Mazda ZOOM ZOOM Half Track. There are no series prizes for this category BUT we love the zoom zoom’er and thought it would be cool to have this as well: #Kids Zoom Zoom Half Track

Parking: Beban park is HUGE. But on any given weekend there is a LOT going on. This weekend in particular there is the Kris Kringle Craft fair in their main buildings along with hockey, soccer, swimming and the list goes on. This will take a lot of the available parking. The best place to park for the race is south of the registration in the gravel lot by the gold course and tennis courts. IF there is no soccer on the Beban fields then that lot will also be available. The lot by the BMX track is normally under-utilized. The paved parking by the Pool and arena will be over-run with craft fair people so it would be best to avoid those lots. Parking on the roadways or grass is strictly forbidden and will get you towed.

Team Tents: Make 100% sure your tent is staked and secured. With wind this week and in the forecast we can not have any tents becoming kites. There will be quite a bit of space for team tents (No vehicles) as marked out on the attached map. It is drop and go until we close and lock the gates around 10am. After that point you will have to carry your gear in. On the flip side the gate will be LOCKED until after the expert race so it will be carry out until that point. There will be no team vehicles inside the gate or we will run out of space for the team tents.

Registration: (Almost) Mandatory pre-registration will close like normal at 8:00pm the night before the race. In this case that will be FRIDAY NIGHT at 8:00pm. Reminder that if you choose to not pre-register you will not receive a call up. No exceptions. The call up sheets are literally done by 8:10pm the night before the race. The link to register is here.

On Saturday number pick up/license check/check in (and Tycho and Tessa’s special stand) will be located in the small red barn (refer to map). Same location we have had it in past years.

Washrooms: There are LOTS of washrooms located in Beban park. EXCEPT in the area where the race is held. The washrooms that we have used in the past that are located in the VIEX grounds are now de-funct. You can locate washrooms in almost all buildings in the park. Both arenas. Down by the artificial turf field. In the Pool. Over in the craft fair area. NO DIRTY BIKE SHOES OR DIRTY PEOPLE INSIDE THE BUILDINGS OR WASHROOMS. Clean yourself up BEFORE going into a public area. We want to be able to use this venue again.

Awards: Awards location will be posted at registration. The small red barn will be too small for this year and weather will play a part so we will post this on race day. It will be a GOOD IDEA to bring a lawn chair for the awards as there likely will be no seating and the awards for the series take double the time of a regular COTR event.

Race Course: Things are coming together for Saturday’s race. Both the weather and the course will be similar to last year’s event but with a few notable changes. With this year’s construction of the Steve Smith Bike park the BIG puddle and tree area of the course are GONE. We will make it up though. Expect a mud fest and challenging (long) course. MIVA will use all of the available barriers and every ounce of terrain to ramp up technical aspect. This is the championship event. So expect a championship worthy course.

Food: AJ’s Island Grill Food Truck will be on-site and ready to serve upBreakfast and Lunch. Great coffee, Gourmet burgers, wraps and all sort of deliciousnesses.

Beer Garden: Beer Garden! Riot Brewing will also be hosting a covered area serving their finest. Come watch the racing in sand riding arena and heckle responsibly.

Post race: We will want to get the awards going as soon as possible on Saturday. With that in mind please help us both tear down as well as RAKE out the course. With the rain in the forecast the more raking we can do on Saturday the better the course will look on Sunday and Monday when people are driving by or walking through. Please bring a rake and work gloves. Many hands make light work and get the work done FAST. We will make an announcement when we are starting the awards….and…..well…..there will be no one left on course so you will notice that the awards have started!

Course Map and venue map

2. Norm’s Notes

  • Nanaimo is home base for some of the businesses that have LONG supported Cross on the Rock. Please make an effort to pop into them while you are in town. Without Rock City Cycles and Frontrunners – Nanaimo this series would be very-very difficult to put on. As well the Howard Johnston in Nanaimo and the Landing Liquor store have both been involved in the past and will be in the future. So if you are staying over or doing some “celebrating” please give the Landing the HoJo some love!
  • As mentioned above. Tycho and Tessa are excited about their recent idea for the race this weekend. They will be set up in the Registration area until the Zoom Zoom race and then again until the masters races. Please bring $1. It will be a mental challenge and not something you can eat this time (although we can always use a twizzler station.
  • Bowen Park has the longest history of any venue and course on Vancouver Island. In January of 2004 we hosted the first ever cx race north of Victoria in preparations for Wendy Simm’s first trip to CX World Championships. It was won by Robin Dutton. In November of 2004 we hosted the first ever official and insured cx race on Vancouver Island in Beban park. The course started and finished on an old stock car track that still existed in Beban park at the time called the Grandview Bowl. It was an amazing facility for cycling at the time. The race was actually quite well attended. The winner of the main events were Wendy Simms and Andrew Pinfold who went on to race for a number of road teams including Symetrics. In 2005 Beban park hosted the last race of the first ever Provincial Cyclocross series (which we started). In 2006 Beban Park hosted the Canadian Cyclocross Championships. The only Canadian Championships (non-masters) to be held on Vancouver Island (not 100% on that stat but I think it might be true?). Since 2006 Beban has been used almost ever single year of Cross on the Rock with the exception of 2 making it the longest standing and most used Cyclocross venue on Vancouver Island and in BC.
  • The series final is always a race in which anything can and will happen. With double the normal points on the line and normally more technical conditions…..things can get crazy. Combine that with some lower mainland riders that come over and the normal battles can get mixed up. Anything can happen.
  • At the series final in 2015 at Shawinigan Lake Olympic Legend, Andreas Hestler, came to race his first COTR race of the season from Vancouver. His placing and the first lap mechanical of Normon shuffled the top 5 of the Masters race and deflated Sean Cruickshank’s chance of his first series win by 1 place. Anything can happen.
  • Next September is a LONG-LONG way’s away (with a small summer race in August). You are a cross racer. Finish your season off STRONG. Try to beat someone you have not beaten all year. Try to finish on the lead lap. Try to ride stuff that normally you can’t. Try to get a better start or better finish. Push yourself. Most importantly……FINISH THE RACE!

FOR SALE (Contact Norm).

  • Wendy’s Super Jake is for sale. Mix of SRAM, Stans and FSA parts to make it into a bullet proof cx machine. Easy to manage cable-disc brakes. Size 53. $1950
  • Norm has a Nomad portable (battery or 12V/lighter plug powered) power washer for sale just perfect for CX bikes if anyone is looking $125.

3. The Study-Build Youth COTR Sponsorship Program Details

A reminder of the GENEROUS Youth sponsorship program from Study-Build.

Quadra Island based Study-Build will again be supporting and paying for YOUTH racers (up to 19 year old) for COTR this year.

Here are the requirements:

  • The racer must participate in 7 or 8 of the eight races this year to qualify for free entries (Under “extraordinary” circumstances less than 7 races may be considered)
  • For the reimbursement at end of season the racer (NOT the PARENTS) will need to submit a request.
  • It is important that this request come from the racer. We KNOW the parents have paid in most cases but we are trying to help build responsible little COTR racers!!
  • Study-Build will then mail a cheque to the racer.

LINK TO THE GOOGLE FORM TO FILL OUT

4. Practice Groups are still happening (I assume this will be the last week for the remaining groups)

COWICHAN VALLEY (Done for the year.)
Wednesday nights (next fall). Check their page on Face Book.
cowichancx@gmail.com and Cowichan Cyclocross on Facebook

NANAIMO (Check with Rock City Cycles now that the time has changed)
Wednesday nights at Rock City Cycles. Cross ride starting at 5:00 (NOTE EARLIER START TIME). Will adjust length based on daylight.

COMOX VALLEY (Check with Trail Bikes to confirm)
Wednesday Night cross practices. 5:30pm. Location will vary each week in either Cumberland/Courtenay/Comox. FB group for more info: https://www.facebook.com/groups/457383181299940/

VICTORIA (Done for this year)

Have you checked this out yet?
Game Changer. With winter here and here EARLY this year we all want to find ways to stay on our bikes and be comfortable and dry. The Shake Dry jacket from Gore Bike Wear is a game changer. Most waterproof jackets are TOO HOT to ride in. This is SUPER-THIN. Super light. It compacts up into a tiny ball and breathes like no other waterproof jacket. They are a bit “pricey” but you will get your $ out of it. Invest in your comfort and sport. Check out the video on the Gore Bike Wear Shakedry Jacket here. These are available at Rock City Cycles and other select local bike shops on the island. Check it out. Buy one. Change your life!

Corey Piket from Rock City Cycles shown in the Shake Dry jacket (and COTR 2017 hat). NOT in cycling clothing….but looking good anyways!!

The Council of cross signing off until next week. We will be back next week with our 12th and last Newsletter of 2017. Look for the series final follow up and the series survey.

Do you want to win the coolest thing of your entire life?

You have to be there on Saturday at the series final. So far this season we have had 348 racers average at each race. You have to be a racer in a SERIES category (ie. NOT Zoom Zoom or ‘Lil Nutcase). You have to be EXCITED beyond belief!
Win a Naked X Frame in time for 2018 COTR race series.

2015 Naked X Frame winner. Roy Kregosky

2016 Naked X Frame winner. Ritchie Hughes

COTR – Newsletter 2017 #10 – Powered by MAZDA then cleaned and prepped by Muc Off. #COTR2017

A MAJOR thanks to MAZDA for continuing their title sponsorship of the COTR series. Did you have a chance to check out the full CX Mazda line up at Days of Thunder? If not check them out on line by clicking the link above. Check it out!!

Game Changer. With winter here and here EARLY this year we all want to find ways to stay on our bikes and be comfortable and dry. The Shake Dry jacket from Gore Bike Wear is a game changer. Most waterproof jackets are TOO HOT to ride in. This is SUPER-THIN. Super light. It compacts up into a tiny ball and breathes like no other waterproof jacket. They are a bit “pricey” but you will get your $ out of it. Invest in your comfort and sport. Check out the video on the Gore Bike Wear Shakedry Jacket here. These are available at Rock City Cycles and other select local bike shops on the island. Check it out. Buy one. Change your life!

This week’s Warm Up (and we need it with this cold’er weather!)

  • Start your weekend recap the RIGHT way with an amazing edit from Ted Hobby. Day’s of Thunder
  • With the SERIES FINAL coming up at Hot Crossed Bunnies. NOW is the time to make sure that your points are all up to date. Right after the race NEXT Saturday is NOT the time…..so lets take care of this NOW. Double check your series results here: Series Results 2017

    • You need to verify: Placings are correct. Name is spelled the same and their age is correct for each event. Email results@crossontherock.com if there are any issues.

  • Wannawafel’s Ryan Dawson was a bit overwhelmed on Saturday. In his words, “I was completely unprepared for how popular the waffles are with cyclocrossers.” It is up to us to keep Ryan up to speed! For the betterment of the series and for all cyclocrossers on the island.

Stuff we LOVE: “I was about to finish my warm up lap before my intermediate men’s race when I got a flat right near the team tents. I couldn’t get a hold of my girlfriend who had my pump and spare tubes and the race was minutes from starting. I went to the Velofix truck without any money in my pockets and they lent me a tube in good faith that I would return following the race with a replacement. Then, as I was looking for a pump to borrow, the mechanic from the naked racing team saw me having trouble and, without me even asking, he put my bike into his work stand, put in the tube, pumped it up, attached the wheel to my bike, and sent me on my way. I made it to the start line with 30 seconds to spare before the siren started the race. Thanks to the generosity (and trust) from these two people, I was able to make it to my race and have some fun. These guys embody the spirit of cyclocross.” (Curtis Fischer)

COTR MERCHANDISE
We have the following inventory left of merchandise for the season:

T Shirts (2017 Version and a few 2016’s left) YOUTH, WOMEN and Men’s sizes
Socks (Small/Medium only)
Hats (Black on the front and white on the back)
I will put the full – remaining inventory on the newsletter next week. Last chance to buy merchandise (read “Christmas Presents”) will be at Hot Crossed Bunnies.

IN THIS NEWSLETTER:

  1. Days of Thunder Recap
  2. Norm’s Notes
  3. Practice Groups are still happening (but fading quickly with the light)

1. Days of Thunder Recap

This weekend was the first time we have had a double header in Victoria for a few years. It was also the first time we have ever had a double header at the same location on both days with almost the same course both days. We loved it…..but did you? Fire us a quick e-mail letting us know if you loved it, liked it, didn’t like it etc. with any notes. (normont@islandnet.com). Anyone that sends feedback I will put into a little draw for a Muc Off cleaning kit and a 6 pack of Phillips. We would appreciate it!

Photos. Lots of Photos!

A friend of Ed Stead took a BUNCH of shots of the Intermediates on Day #1. Link here.

Photos from Patrick Burnham:
Saturday
https://www.flickr.com/photos/palleus/albums/72157688931317114
Sunday
https://www.flickr.com/photos/palleus/albums/72157688988002314
Max taking the inside line to pass Raph in the puddle
https://www.flickr.com/photos/palleus/38234414671/in/photostream/

A tonne of photos and mini-videos from all races but focused on the Zoom Zoom and ‘Lil Nutcase Races from Mazda’s Sean Voigt: https://photos.app.goo.gl/VpXMJwD3CxcF9CCj1

Notes from double header race director: Drew MacKenzie

Hey Zeus what a weekend of racing! Epic conditions. Epic battles out on course. And we ran out of waffles! Just your typical, awesome COTR double header weekend.

Massive thanks to all of the volunteers who came out early and stayed long to make the event happen this weekend.

Thank these folks for their contribution to our beloved cross community. When you see them next, give them a high five, or a beer, or heck give em a hug and say thanks for all that they do:

Norm “Tireless” Thibault
Sylvia “Super” Storry
Roland “Rapid Results” Rabien
Patrick Burnham
Terry McKall
Andy Pitre
Mitch Thacker
Dave Podmoroff
Kyle Denny
Curtis Schlossberger
Victoria Leeson
Amy Errington
Clay Webb
Alex Hui
Ian Brown
Joele Guynup
Scotty Mitchell
Andy Achuff
Brent Hooper
Linda Saunders
Betsy Makenzie
Joanna Fox
Patricia Rooney
Sherry Barnes
Bruce Falk
Ryan Clarke
Denise Mahon
Sol Kauffman
Paul Brend
Hugh Hart
Vanessa Service
and Wendy Simms
Also Tessa and Tycho for their friendship pin station.

A massive round of THANK YOUs to everyone who contributes to this great series by chipping in where you see a hand being needed or simply just by coming out being quality individuals.

A very big thank you also to our race sponsors:
Please remember to vote with your dollars and your kind words the next time you’re out shopping or talking about bikes to friends and strangers alike. The internet does not put on events or provide prizing for all the races in your local community. Make sure to support your local businesses/shops/distributors/representatives that work hard to support the community!

Extra Event Sponsors (In addition to the series sponsors):
Shimano (bike.shimano.com/)
Pearl Izumi (www.pearlizumi.com/)
Pro Components (www.pro-bikegear.com/en-gb)
Focus Bikes (www.focus-bikes.com)

2. Norm’s Notes

  • One of the most difficult things to do is to organize a full cross on the rocks race AND also race. When you have almost the full racer-volunteer crew also racing…..you are getting to a “Zen Director” like state. On top of that when you can be up setting up the race course at 7am. Going all day long. Racing the last race of the day at 2:15pm AND podium in the Expert Men’s category…..you are NEXT level “zen”. Congratulations on a HUGE weekend and massive thanks to Drew MacKenzie
  • Tycho and Tessa would like to thank all the kids that came to their friendship pin station. They re-scheduled it from Saturday to Sunday with the weather. They made 63 pins according to their meticulous records. Can’t wait to see what they think of next.

There were quite a few AMAZING rides on the weekend. Hidden amoung them was 26 year old Paul Sales 7th place in Expert men in his first cross race ever. Actually maybe his first bike race of any type. Unreal!

Back in action at Days of Thunder Day #2 was Tyler Trace with a 13th place for one of the best COTR racers of all time. Great to see him out.

Changing of the guard? Out of the 18 podium spots available to race for on Sunday 11 were taken by riders under 20 years old. Add in Felix Burke’s 1st in Expert at age of 21 and it looks like the young guns that have been building experience for years are taking over!

FOR SALE

  • Wendy’s Super Jake is for sale. Mix of SRAM, Stans and FSA parts to make it into a bullet proof cx machine. Easy to manage cable-disc brakes. Size 53. $1950
  • Norm has a Nomad portable (battery or 12V powered) power washer for sale just perfect for CX bikes if anyone is looking $125.

One of my favourite photos from the weekend. Days of Thunder #1. End of Expert Women. (Ken Johnston Photo)

3. Practice Groups are still happening (but fading quickly with the light)

COWICHAN VALLEY (Still going as far as we know)
Wednesday nights. Check their page on Face Book.
cowichancx@gmail.com and Cowichan Cyclocross on Facebook

NANAIMO (Check with Rock City Cycles now that the time has changed)
Wednesday nights at Rock City Cycles. Cross ride starting at 5:00 (NOTE EARLIER START TIME). Will adjust length based on daylight.

COMOX VALLEY (Check with Trail Bikes to confirm)
Wednesday Night cross practices. 5:30pm. Location will vary each week in either Cumberland/Courtenay/Comox. FB group for more info: https://www.facebook.com/groups/457383181299940/

VICTORIA (Done for this year)

The Council of cross signing off until next week. We will be back next week with the preview of Hot Crossed Bunnies our 2017 Series FINAL.

How the Monday morning looks these days.

COTR – Newsletter 2017 #9 – Powered by MAZDA then cleaned and prepped by Muc Off. #COTR2017

A MAJOR thanks to MAZDA for continuing their title sponsorship of the COTR series. We will have the FULL CX Mazda line up at Days of Thunder. Check it out!!

The Warm Up

Western Speedway. A holy ground for cyclocross. So many GREAT battles. Home of the SSCXWC2015. This weekend will be amazing! One note though is that this venue for the weekend costs us over $3500+ JUST for the venue. That is why this event is $5 more to register. Just wanted to make that clear so people know the reason.

COTR MERCHANDISE
We have the following inventory left of merchandise for the season:

T Shirts (2017 Version and a few 2016’s left) YOUTH, WOMEN and Men’s sizes
Socks
Hats (Black on the front and white on the back)
I will put the full – remaining inventory on a post on FB later tonight for reference.

  • After the SUCCESS of both their Freezie Stand and their Licorice Stand Tessa and Tycho have built something entirely NEW for this weekend’s day #1 of the double header. Cross on the Rock is sponsoring a friendship pin table. This will be FREE. They are setting up after the ‘Lil Nutcase race at the Frontrunners Van. Kids and adults are welcome to come and make their own friendship pin. All supplies will be provided. Directions, if needed, by Tessa and Tycho.
  • If anyone is staying up at Bear Mountain on Friday and Saturday nights and can bring my crew down to the race venue a bit later in the morning please let me know. It would be nice for them to NOT have to get up before dawn to head down the hill with me.
  • Wendy’s Super Jake is for sale. Size 53 if anyone is looking. (More details to follow)
  • Norm has a portable (battery or 12V powered) power washer for sale just perfect for CX bikes if anyone is looking (More details to follow).

IN THIS NEWSLETTER:

  1. Are you READY for the Days of Thunder (all the details)
  2. Norm’s Notes (A separate feature this week)
  3. Practice Groups are still happening (but fading quickly with the light)

1. Are you READY for the Days of Thunder (all the details)

Registration
Registration for Day #1 CLOSES at 8:00 PM on Friday Night: https://raceroster.com/events/2017/14151/2017-cross-on-the-rock-days-of-thunder-1
Registration for Day #2 CLOSES at 8:00 PM on Saturday Night:
https://raceroster.com/events/2017/14152/2017-cross-on-the-rock-days-of-thunder-2

Honestly for the double header…..we would like to have as FEW day-of-race entries as possible. PLEASE pre-register.

Course Description:
Both days will feature modified versions of 2015’s SSCXWC (Single Speed Cyclocross World Championships) course with (possibly) less boats, snow, shortcuts, but hopefully more mud!

With a wide motocross style start on dirt (one day and one day regular grid), a paved finish line straight away, and every other type of surface in between, the courses for both days are a great mix of slow, fast, and really slow with a number of potential on-off bike sections thrown in for good measure.

Venue:
Western Speedway is located just outside of Victoria in Langford @ 2207 Millstream Rd, Victoria, BC V9B 0J7. Pretty straight forward to locate using your preferred map service and lots of parking in the main lot near the Speedway. Once you turn off Millstream Road into the venue follow the signs for the Speedway which is located in the back right corner of the massive parking lot. See map below for where to park.

Team Tent Area:
There will be a designated tent set up area close to food trucks and finish line area of the course. See venue map for exact location. No parking in the Team Tent area. Unload, setup then park in the main lot. MUST be on site BEFORE the first race as the course runs through the team tent area. If you want to reserve a team tent spot fire Drew a note (drew.a.mackenzie@gmail.com). You can not pack your stuff up and LEAVE the team area UNTIL the last race is FINISHED.

Event Sponsors:
A massive thanks to our extraordinary event sponsors for supplying all the race tape (so much race tape!) and a huge amount of prizing.

Food and Expo:
The best waffles in the business, Wannawafel will be on site serving up tasty Belgian inspired goodness.

Indecent Risotto Food Truck is also confirmed for the race, serving up breakfast, lunch and dinner!

Venue Map: (Take Note: This is more of a VENUE map rather than a PROPER Course map)

2. Norm’s Notes (Mosty about CX Nationals)

  • Small note. In 2011 (I think) Naked was AWESOME and got on board to sponsor the series with a frameset for some AWESOME rider. We set up the draw at the final race with everyone’s names being cut up and put into a bucket (it took forever). The first person’s name to be drawn out was Wendy Simms. Now we KNOW that Wendy (or I) and EVERYONE else at the races would LOVE to win a Naked frame. BUT we pulled another name and someone else took home the bike. I think it might have been Jennifer Erlendson? SO……when I hear little comments about “the fix” when my kids names legitimately and fairly get called for a draw prize it bugs me. My kids LOVE the races. And like anyone LOVE to win prizes. Keep your comments to yourself please in these cases. There is NO fix. If anyone knows me….our family is more than fair…..in fact we gave up a Naked frame……need any more proof?
  • I had a great weekend racing cross this past weekend. NOT at our usual COTR races which I LOVE but in Quebec with a few other COTR’ers. One thing I know for sure. Our series equips riders with the skills needed to tackle almost any course that we are likely to find in Canada. The one in Sherbrooke was TOUGH….but all our crew never mentioned it. Instead they all revelled in the technical nature of the set up.
  • It had been a few years since I raced CX Nationals…..and nothing had changed. This is NOT a good thing. With the sport growing all around us on the Island and in BC…..Nationals has remained stagnant with no real changes. As a race organizer and someone who has been around CX for now 14 years it is sad to see the lack of vision or innovation at our highest level in the country.
  • Emilly Johnson is a Canadian Champion. I don’t care what the CCA and their STUPID rules with regards to youth racing are. I don’t care if it was in their eyes a “challenge” category. She was 1st and should have been awarded a jersey. The fact that she was not is simply laziness and short sightedness.
  • I could go on and on about the things that SHOULD be changed and modified at CX Nationals…..but I have to move on and get ready for the DOUBLE HEADER.

3. Practice Groups are still happening (but fading quickly with the light)

COWICHAN VALLEY
Wednesday nights. Check their page on Face Book.
cowichancx@gmail.com and Cowichan Cyclocross on Facebook

NANAIMO
Wednesday nights at Rock City Cycles. Cross ride starting at 5:00 (NOTE EARLIER START TIME). Will adjust length based on daylight.

COMOX VALLEY
Wednesday Night cross practices. 5:30pm. Location will vary each week in either Cumberland/Courtenay/Comox. FB group for more info: https://www.facebook.com/groups/457383181299940/

VICTORIA – 1 Practices left (LAST PRACTICE TONIGHT)
In Victoria there is the Cross Club. 7 training “rides”.
Cross Club 2017, Victoria’s Underground Cyclocross Series Returns
Rain we need rain…. regardless it’s Cyclocross Season, so time to sharpen your CX skills!
B’s ride at 5:30pm
A’s at 6:00pm.
Details on locations will be emailed to the registered riders list each week.
Ride#7 is November 1
www.crossclubvictoria.com

The Council of cross signing off until next week with the Review of the Days of Thunder Double Header.

Mical Dyck on the podium in the Elite Women.
Emilly Johnson Canadian Champion in U17 Women
Normon on the podium with the old guys.

COTR – Newsletter 2017 #8 – Powered by MAZDA then cleaned and prepped by Muc Off. #COTR2017

A MAJOR thanks to MAZDA for continuing their title sponsorship of the COTR series. We hope to have the FULL CX Mazda line up at Days of Thunder…..stay tuned!

The Warm Up

Last week we talked about killing an event. Most of you were listening…..a few of you were not (the ones that parked on the grass at Qualicum Beach instead of parking on the road and riding an extra 50 meters).

This week we are going to talk about how to “Love” and “Save” and “Support” and event. And the best part about it is we will make it FUN with Prizes.

Here we go……as you know Cross on the Common’s was a MUD fest. While we LOVE MUD (as I can tell from the number of people that have commented on the course yesterday) some residents, park users and general…..well…..people that don’t love anything…..will try to complain. The name of the game now is to drown out the complainers with LOTS of SUPPORT.

So we will make it fun. I will put up a prize pack of some Phillips Beer and the one SUPER Muc OFF Kit that we received from Peter Creighton. It is a great prize!

All you have to do to enter is e-mail the following 2 people with “supportive” and “positive” comments about the event yesterday. In your writing don’t mention the “negative” impacts or people. Focus on POSITIVE aspects of the event and your trip to Qualicum Beach. I just want to tell you that Clayton Hiltz has already got a head start. BCC (Only BCC’ed entries will qualify….not those “CC’ed” ones) us on your e-mail and I will enter you in for the prize. Must be done within this week. So the deadline is FRIDAY at the end of the day. These things are BEST done QUICKLY after the race.

Here are the two e-mails:

Daniel Sailland, CAO: DSailland@qualicumbeach.com

Heather Svensen, Corporate Administrator: hsvensen@qualicumbeach.com

PRAISE and ACCOLADES! Do your best and thanks in advance!

IN THIS NEWSLETTER:

  1. Cross on the Commons Review
  2. Norm’s Notes (A separate feature this week)
  3. Practice – Practice and Practice (Updated)

1. Cross on the Commons Review

Cross on the Commons (COTC) – The Rear View

The biggest mention has got to go out to Cross On The Rock for letting Qualicum Beach host the only new event for 2017. May there be more! Awesome!

Wow, what a great day! Was that wet/slippery/muddy/sandy enough? Long enough or short enough? Tough but fun enough? Hope everyone got their fills worth and came away smiling (and hopefully with some swag).

A special thank you to all those, especially Scott Richard, Parks Supervisor, associated with the Town of Qualicum Beach for supporting this event and letting us use the Civic Centre facilities.

And the next big shout out goes to all of the volunteers for making the race run so smoothly. Start at 7, home at 5 for a Big Day. With an extra big, high 5 to the main COTC organizing team of Dean Vinden (course design), Geordie Greenwood and Paul Connor (volunteers), Michael Addiscott (sponsors and course design) and Laz Difiore and Nicholas Knight (Beginner clinic and more). A big pat on the head to Richard Franklin (Parksville) for the Facebook banner and poster and with extra thanks to Juan Pablo for the video production. Special thanks to Sally Vinden for jumping into the Registration fray, taking charge and getting the job done!

Fine job everyone!

Glad to have had the Medix staff on hand to deal with some accidents and I hope everyone heals up fast. Also good to have the RCMP Garage 529, bike registration project there. And of course, AJ’S food truck to keep those needy folks full.

And far from last, is the awesome support we received from a large number of business’ and companies in Qualicum Beach, Parksville and Coombs that donated product, gift certificates and a whole lot more to a great event. Truly impressed!

Thanks one and all,
Roy

2. Norm’s Notes

I am doing a separate section for Norm’s notes this week rather than bunching it in with Roy’s Cross on the Common’s stuff. There is always a LOT of stuff going on behind the scenes at COTR headquarters between the race organizers and other people that help out with the series. I just wanted to fill you in on a bit of behind the scenes stuff.

Roy has been racing the series since 2013 One year…I think 2015 he won the GRAND prize of the Naked bike. Since before that he has been working me HARD about putting on a race in Qualicum Beach. He would e-mail me. He would text. He would roll by Frontrunners QB Triathlon aid station to talk to me about it. He would get mad at me in 2016 when they were not on the schedule. Finally this year the pieces call came together and I have to say it was one of our best events in close to 80 COTR races. The number of people helping out. The marshals on the course. The set up. It was SO smooth. Normally first year events are NOT this smooth. This crew not only put on the event on Sunday BUT they sent people to Coal Cross and the Kona Kup to help out and to learn a head of time. If there is ever another group that wants to put on a COTR event in the future……the Qualicum crew have set the standard for a first year event!

Now our challenge it to get invited back!

More notes:

  • Did you see how many people were watching the “Lil Nutcase race? That was the biggest spectator crew EVER for that race. People had lawn chairs!
  • A special thanks to Glenowyn Carlson – Pirate Kitty Racing s for organizing refreshments for all the Expert women at the finish line (of one of the longest expert women’s races of all time). She took it upon herself to get beverages from our sponsor Phillips for all the riders.
  • GREAT to see Dylan Tremblay out at the event yesterday. Dylan raced 3 seasons of COTR before long standing free-riding injuries got to him and he could not continue. Then his wife took up the charge…..now his kids are out there. I think one of his kids’ pedals fell off during the nutcase race? Anyways 8 different people offered him their bikes and entries just to see him rip it up. Such a great rider to watch. We hope his back gets stronger (keep doing your core) and he can join us with his kids one day.
  • Lastly, Roland Rabien, who was battling with Ozzie Cyclings Lee Blais (Look up Rule #1 in the rules section of the COTR web site) for most of the race. On his way to his best finish of the season he crashed the last time down the sand back on the last lap. Not wanting to record a DNF he made it to the finish line in 32nd place. Then to the Medix crew. Then to the ambulance. Then to Nanaimo Regional…..and a broken clavicle was the outcome. So bummed! (Another behind the scenes) In 2009 when Tycho was on the way we thought we would not be able to continue with COTR. Roland and Katie stepped WAY up to help us run the series and make it a LOT more smooth. Basically we would be no where without them (and a lot of other people). We wish Roland a speedy recovery. He said that the results will be even MORE accurate at the last 3 races with him NOT racing! So there is a small “plus” for all the results driven folks out there…..but we really wish he was racing the last 3 races instead of just helping us.

OK a few links to keep your PUMPED up and motivated until Days of Thunder.

First from Sean Voigt from Pacific Mazda. He says there are some good crash shots in here:
The link to my unedited photos and video: a couple great shots https://photos.app.goo.gl/SsYg555byOcfgtmG2

Second a link from Ted Hobby of his edit from the Experts A few people have asked me why there is no edit of other races…..well……the people making the edits are RACING those races!!

Third a link from Patrick Burnham of his photos from the day: https://www.flickr.com/photos/palleus/sets/72157687724136220

What kind of a community is Cross on the Rock? Well the Egan clan won the Kona Private jake at the Kona Kup. They already had a bike in their stable for their kids. Brand new. Instead of selling it they brought it to Cross on the Common’s and we gave it to the kid in the Zoom Zoom race that was the biggest kids on the smallest bike and could use it the most. How awesome is that? (Mick is also missing his wheels if you have an extra set that you picked up).

What kind of an event gives away not 1 but 2 bikes in one day……our kind of event. I have the lucky winner of the bike from Arrowsmith bikes somewhere in my notes that are still deep in the van…..we can post it later on FB but for now look at that smile from both the little racer and his dad! Thanks Laz and Kebble for supporting this up and coming kids!

Most importantly the T’s Licorice stand was a SUCCESS. They sold out. They were excited about the day ranking it 11 out of 10. Both of them are already working on their ideas for Days of Thunder. Stay tuned.

3. Practice – Practice and Practice (Updated)

Days are getting shorter BUT you can still get out there with a group to practice and get a good workout in.

COWICHAN VALLEY
Wednesday nights. Check their page on Face Book.
cowichancx@gmail.com and Cowichan Cyclocross on Facebook

NANAIMO
Wednesday nights at Rock City Cycles. Cross ride starting at 5:30. Will adjust length based on daylight.

COMOX VALLEY
Wednesday Night cross practices. 5:30pm. Location will vary each week in either Cumberland/Courtenay/Comox. FB group for more info: https://www.facebook.com/groups/457383181299940/

VICTORIA – 2 Practices left.
In Victoria there is the Cross Club. 7 training “rides”.
Cross Club 2017, Victoria’s Underground Cyclocross Series Returns
Rain we need rain…. regardless it’s Cyclocross Season, so time to sharpen your CX skills!
B’s ride at 5:30pm
A’s at 6:00pm.
Details on locations will be emailed to the registered riders list each week.
Ride#6 is October 25
Ride#7 is November 1
www.crossclubvictoria.com

The Council of cross signing off until next week with the preview for Days of Thunder Double Header.

GOOD LUCK to at the Cross on the Rock racers that are making their way to Sherbrooke Quebec this weekend for the National Championships.