JennBonics

Racing At Night

2011-08-17T14:04:00.000-07:00

A common question racers and spectators ask me.... How can you race in the twilight. It can be scary but with the right equipment and state of mind, it's a thrill I was recently interviewed by Lynn Lamoureux with Podium Insight with this question. She has posted the interview at Podium Insight http://www.podiuminsight.com/2011/07/09/racing-at-night/

TEAM VK wins Pleasanton Fast and Furious

2011-08-08T07:45:00.000-07:00

Team work did it. We succeed as a team. Here is the team on the podium at the

Pleasanton Fast and Furious Crit last night. Puuuurfection!

TEAM!

2011-08-07T11:58:00.000-07:00

A successful Saturday for the kittens at the 1st annual Watsonville Criterium yesterday afternoon. The podium was great with Jazzy 3rd and me 5th, but I am most proud of the comment extended to us by announcer Dave Towle. Dave said to me "It great to see your team come together. I've seen other teams come and go but your team cares for each other. You can see that in the racing."
Dave travels all of the world announcing races and seen a lot of teams come and go throughout the years, that was a huge compliment coming from him. Team VK succeeds by the team we have created. We work hard for the results needed to make the sponsors proud but we also succeed in the journey it takes to get us there. Our team is well rounded and grounded. We race hard and play hard, enjoy dinners and post race celebrations with sponsors, give a young girl encouragement and a high five when needed. VK gives to race communities throughout the US with bike and helmet safety presentations and just good fun.

Thanks to all of our frienda, family and fans who continue to support VK!

A Thelma and Louise Week

2011-08-03T09:02:00.000-07:00

JDub me and Moonie: Movies on the Beach, Santa Cruz

Another amazing week capped of with a weekend of racing (Tour De Nez) with the kittens. It started with me hosting Jen Weinbrecht (AKA JDub) and Emily after a successful week of racing the Cascades Stage Race in Bend Oregon. Having these two in my home was a huge treat. Coffee was ready every morning, the kitchen was clean, dinners were made, groceries were purchased. JDub rearrange my pantry and the two of them filled my cabinets with dishware. Can't believe how easy a 50 hour work week felt with the assistance of people taking care of the home duties.

We filled up the week with, morning coffee talks, recovery rides starting at Easton Bell and even took in a movie at the beach (E.T.) boardwalk in Santa Cruz.

Believe it or not the week flew and by Friday night we were making final preparations to head out to Reno for the Tour De Nez (NRC Criterium Race).

Saturday morning our VK local composite rider Courtney Van Dimple arrived. The four of us squeezed into my GTI and buzzed down to the farmers market to pick up a few road snacks. We picked up fresh fruit, veggies and nuts for the road, packed up the cars and commenced the VK caravan for Reno NV! After the 5 hour drive it was standard operating procedures: Check in, quick ride, meet and greet, shower, bed, rise, pre ride and race.

VK had is most successful NRC result to date with Emily Collins placing 4^th. Amber Rais (Pasta Zara) soloed for the win, final sprint 2^nd Tiff Pezzulo (Primal) 3^rd Katarina Nash (Luna Chix). VK was aggressive from the gun, attacking and blowing up the field, dropping riders every lap on the 9 corner course with a leg burner hill that was 2 blocks log. With all the work VK still placed 4 girls in top 20, Jenn Weinbrecht 10^th, Starla Teddergreen 16^th and me 19^th.

The rest of the afternoon we hung out in the VIP tent, splashed and dunked in the Truckee river, enjoyed a team dinner and celebrated at the local lounge. It was the first time we have race with JDub since Redlands, she had broken her elbow and is now fully recovered to finish out the season). The “kids” (Emily and Jazzy) head out at the end of the month and the Tour De Nez was their last NRC with Vanderkitten before the leave. I can’t believe their stay is coming quickly to an end. They’ll be here racing locally till the end of the month.

Courtney and Me on the final run at Northstar

Monday morning Courtney and I said out team goodbyes and headed out to the Northstar resort for some “product testing”. Northstar was beautiful. We had a full day of fun in the sun and in the dirt; boondoggeling each other in the 10’ burm corners and racing down the downhill courses trying to get the hang of jumping doubles and railin’ it on our rigs. We were definitely using up all the fun. People must have been hearing us yell and cheer for each other on the course, because the were cheering us on from the lifts. I think the 2 of us were quite the attraction as we were the fastest women on the biggest bike getting the most air. Of course, it was a pretty slow day up on the mountain, but it was all ours for the taking.

The way home was just as fun, we took a quick dip in Donner Lake to clean up and buzzed home with good tunes and memorable laughs.

It's amazing being part of a strong, fun, smart and adventurous group of women. We let our freedom roam racing hard and playing hard, enjoying laughs, food and memories. We all need a Thelma and Louise weekend to refuel and refresh for the challenges life tosses at us!

Enjoy

JennX

July Update

2011-07-04T19:12:00.000-07:00

Wow, where in the heck did June go? Team VK finished up an excellent month of June with several successes. We raced 6 states across the USA in 23 days of racing, and scored 5 podiums (2nd Glencoe GP, 2nd, 2nd and 3rd Dairyland Stages, Bronze at U23 Criterium Nationals), 4 top 5s (at NVGP and Dairyland) and were in the top ten 19 of the days. We were also in prize jerseys for 6 of the 11 days of Dairylands and Sprint Jersey at Glencoe GP (IL).
It was quite the whirlwind but it was well worth the momentum the team has started.
July's focus is San Rafael on the 9th and Cascades Stage racing 19th-24th.
Many thanks go out to all of the fans who purchased jerseys and t-shirts at the races or online at http://www.vanderkitten.com/ as you may know proceeds from apparel sales fund the teams travel and race entries. By the way, not of our podiums were in kit. Here are Emily, Jazzy and me with Hairbangers Ball at the post race party at the Glencoe Criterium
More blogging to come and training and racing continues.
Happy 4th

May Update

2011-05-22T07:36:00.000-07:00

There's been so much going on since Sea Otter, I can't believe I have not blogged yet. The last time I posted was 2 days before teammate Emily Collins crashed out at the sprint at the last day of Sea Otter breaking her wrist and here I am posting a photo of her placing 3rd at the Scotts Valley Grand Prix almost 100% healed. The team settled down a bit after Otter, but ramped it up last weekend with a double hitter at Cats Hill and the Scotts Valley Grand Prix (SVGP). With our major sponsored present as the SVGP, the team was really happy to podium with such a strong field.

The week leading up to the SVGP was active for me. Monday I did 2 helmet safety clinics at the local SV schools, Wednesday I did a quick radio snippet at local station KSCO. Friday the Santa Cruz Sentinel did a expose on me, the featured rider of the event who, lives, works and races in Scotts Valley. It was fun to be the town hero for a week.

Other than that, I managed to separate my right shoulder on Easter weekend. Yep, this time is was really bad. I was in a sling for a week. I was on my mountain bike again, but I promise, I have been taking it easy, not going big because we are in road season. I came around a corner and my wheel got jack knifed by a small rock and rut, throwing me over the bars. I have a video clip of it. Someday I'll post it, after I view it. I can say this weekend, I am 95% and stoked to be able to pull on the bars pain free.

I've gotten the cooking bug lately. While Emily was staying with me last weekend I had her help me make MONSTER COOKIES, which we shared with our local sponsors. I made my first quiche, and started and herb garden.

Whats on deck.... I'll be heading to Tulsa on June 9th and hoping to get out to ToAD at the end of June. Locally I am planning on the Mt Hamilton RR and Memorial Day crit next weekend. I need a good ass handing before I head out to the NRC's in June.

Work, life and training are getting really tight these days. I really wanted to take off the full 2 weeks and race ToAD but were in peak season at work and being a "manager" with increased responsibilities I can't take off the time right now. I get bummed about it, but then remember that there is racing in Australia in December and I have teammates who live in New Zealand, suddenly not being able to take 2 weeks off in June doesn't make me sad anymore.

Hope all is well with all my riding buddies out there and your enjoying some warm weather.

Enough said, get out and ride.

Sea Otter Day one

2011-04-14T18:19:00.000-07:00

I had more fun than I should of today. Sea Otter weather was perfect. I got to the course early got 5 runs in. I dropped in for sponsor meet and greets at Focus, Easton and JL Velo. After a full day in the sun and a bit of a tan, I'm home enjoying the sunset with a New Castle while dinner is cookin'.

The downhill course is soooo much fun. Fun and safe! The designers did a spectacular job setting up a technically challenging course the requires brains and brawn. The finish line of the Downhill Course will be the most popular spot at Sea Otter when the pros race on Sunday. The course finishes up with 3 table tops right near the road, with the last and steepest table tops in front of the grand stands 25 meters from the finish.

Not only was I early to practice, I was the very first rider off onto the course for practice. It was a thrill. Right out of the start house, people were cheering me to pedal and get off the brakes. The energy rocked!.

My first run I was a bit timid, or maybe just smart. I viewed all of the table tops, burms and drops looking at the best lines to take. Some of the stuff they through are you on this course puts you in and lands at angles. I am not quite ready for that skill level, but feel that I was able to find the fastest and safest route for me.

I was a kid in a candy store. I rode right up to the shuttle and said "Again please." Each time I rode down I got fast and my smile got bigger! By my 5th run down the course I was nailing it.... to my sill level.

The whole DH seen is a total zoo. I have experienced Sea Otter as an exhibitor, a roadie and a mountain biker , all of them fun in their own way, and experiencing Sea Otter as a Downhiller is icing on the cake. I spent a lot of time in the sun and dirt today and going to take the day off the bike tomorrow. I race on Saturday at 10.

After my practice, I headed over to the womens pro criterium where my teammy's were competing. It was weird being at the start line and not in the race.

The race was hard! Kristen Armstrong decided to make a last minute appearance and brought the A squad with her. It was a tough race with head winds, 2 x 180 degree turns with hills on both sides. The course blew that blew apart on lap 2. There were lots of attacks and a Primal Map My Ride got a few solo breakaways, but PB and Co was determined to win it.

The drag race finished resulted in 1st Kristen Armstrong (PB Co. 2012) 2nd Sam Sneider (Tibco) 3rd Corine Armstrong (PB Co. 2010) and my 2nd favorite team 4th Tiffany Pizzoula (Primal Map My Ride).

Tomorrow the road race. Can't wait to see my teammy's tomorrow and see how they do. I will be delivering special goodies for them after the road race.

Photo: My only shot of Sea Otter. Hanging with our newest VK fan , Maleah! She is riding up the coast from San Diego to Tahoe and stopped in to Sea Otter for the day.

Beaumont RR Stage 1 Day 2

2011-04-02T11:20:00.000-07:00

Holy Hell, all I feel like writing about is the heat. Hotter that Hattie’s, Hell of the East, Sauna, Porta Pottie suffocating, Betty Crocker crock pot stewing, hurt locker, pain game stifling heat. The warmest temperatures I have seen in the last 6 month is a high of 72. Ugh! Today’s road stage started off a bit unusual. There were no Santa Ana winds to contend with so we actually road as a nervous pack for the first lap. In the past on this stage, the wind has strung out the peloton from the gun. Personally it was weird to be back in a peloton of a 100 plus women, all continually jockeying for position in the pack. I am sure there are race reviews published about this stage but I can only tell you about my little self centered experience of my race. In short, I didn’t make it to the finish with the lead pack so I didn’t get to see the winning sprint. I had a total blast today supporting the kittens. I blocked a few of them out of the wind, brought a few to the front of the peloton and did a Sherpa trip back to the caravan for a water feed, FUN TIMES. I have been racing so many one day races and crits the past few years, it was great to use some stage race skills. The heat rocked me. Wow, I was shocked that I was so affected. I guess I must be getting a little soft since moving up to NorCal. When I lived here in the Valley, I welcomed the heat, bring it on, cook me and make me sweat. Now days I am continually seeking out shade, grabbing one ice cold water bottle to pour on my head for every feed I took. I snapped going up the hill on the 2nd lap. With the increase heart rate and heat, my body slowed down against my mental wishes. Was I pissed, yes! I hate being a dangler, to have the pack in sight and not be able to reach it. FRACK!!!!! Enough of the pity party, time to get motivated to finish within time cut. I know, it is a morbid way to think to race to finish within time cut, not to win, that’s stage racing. My goals for the race had changed, I need to finish to be there for my teammates for tomorrows crit. I was stoked to hook up with 2 other gals, Sydney with Rouse Cycles and Zeta with Kenda. The three of us worked in a rotating pace line for the next 18 miles. Hats off to Sydney, she was a Rock star. Both Zeta and I were pretty rocked and couldn’t pull through. Sydney set a nice tempo that we could all handle. My body continued to fall apart and scream at me as I started the climb on the third lap. I tried to relieve some of the pain by standing by my legs declined that offer by cramping. I had to sit down and watch Sydney ride away from me and Zeta fall more behind. Our little trio of suffrage was coming to and end. The only thought going through my head as I tapped out the pedals was to get to the top of this climb for the rockin’ decent on the other side. I did make it to the top and on the way down I was excited to see Sydney in sight. Seeing her motivated me to grind out the gears so we could enjoy each the support of each other to the finish line. Sydney and I made it to the finish line about 12 minutes off the finishers. Zeta made it too, just a few minutes behind us. The 4 of the 6 of the VK’s made it to the finish with the main pack with Jenn W, the top team finisher with 21st. Today, the crit, 2:30 start time. We have already been up and scouted out the course. Glad to see that Redlands hasn’t changed the street conditions after 14 years. I see the punany crushing pot hole I hit in the chicane before the coffee shop is still there and the huge crack on the back side of the course is still a fault line. Can’t wait! T minus 3 hours.

Redlands Sun Prologue

2011-03-31T15:17:00.000-07:00

Kudos to the podium ladies today at the Redlands Prologue: Amber Neben: High Road 11:12:44 Eve Stevens: High Road 11:20:80 Erin Willock: Tibco 11:25:07 It was not an easy feat. It’s hot and dry. It’s hard to believe that completed 100 miles in the rain 5 days ago. I’m not sure how everyone else felt, but from this riders point of few…. Here are a few details. I feel great in the start house and got movin’ up to speed to tap out the first 1K quickly, but as soon as I hit the right turn to face the first hill, I took a huge breathe of fresh hot oven air. We’re talking lung drying, moisture wickin’ tongue numbing HOT AIR! Hill #1 was a grinder but the suffering was worth it after for the quick downhill section that included wicked turn at the bottom that super fun to take a full speed that transitioned onto the avenue of orange blossoms. That’s not what it is really called but that was all I could smell the entire length of this section of the TT. Ahhh! The smell of Redlands; way better then the smell of the central valley on a hot summer day of racing. Finally reaching the freeway overpass, the dry air has now aged me 20 years; really, I could see my skin wrinkling on my arms as it needs water. I thought to reach for my bottle; but of course, this is a prologue, who carries water bottles? Must grind out more pain, no water for me! I can barely talk about the second hill without embarrassment. It is photographer alley. If there were any photos of me they were all of my tongue licking my front wheel and my eyes rolling into the back of my head. I would have cried, but I ccouldn't waste the tears. The best part of the 2nd hill grinder, is the gift that waits for you around the next corner, yep, a little brat of a kicker that robs you of your hopes and dreams as a High Road riders buzzes past you tapping out a 120 cadence in a 53x11. I try not to focus on the rider that just past me, but the 200 meter sign awaiting me up the road. Only 200 meters I think, it’s a quick sprint, I got this, not much more suffering. 5 minutes later I’m still looking at the 200 meter sign wondering if I misread the sign and it really said 2K. Like I said, it was hot and dry; 13 minutes into this prologue can make you a bit delusional. Finally crossing the finish line, I raise my head and thank the stars it’s over. Like I said, kudos to the women who made the podium today, it was a hard prologue, physically and mentally. Congratulations to all the 113 women starters today, your participation continues to puts the Redlands Stage Race on the map!

VK placed some good numbers:

34 Jen Weinbrecht: 12:53:23

35 Emily 12:54:08

74 Jazzy 13:41:39

83 Me 14:06:26

86 Vanessa 14:07:48

87 Maura 14:08:79

109 Guest rider Kat Carr 15:41:87

113 starters no time cuts, 0 DNF’s, 0 DNS’s

Tomorrow Beaumont RR stage 1 Start Time 9:30

Week in review!

2011-02-05T08:42:00.002-08:00

It's Satuday morning and I'm sitting here with a fresh cup of Peet's reflecting on the week and thought I would share.

I haven't even mounted the saddle this morning and it's already been a stellar week of riding.

Monday was a fun solo recovery ride, which suited me fine for Wednesday's attack fest. I did campus loop (UCSC) from work.

Thursday night rocked! It has been working out that Thursday nights seemed to be jump practice at Z's. The photo here is from Feb 3rd's practice. Honestly, I don't know how it happened that I went from trail riding to trail jumping but I am hooked. I know it can be dangerous, as I learned this past Thursday when I took a huge hit to the dirt busting my new Bell Varient on the 1st ride, but the reward is additicing. I really enjoy clearing large gaps in a single bound and have been scaring the poop out of myself. Crit racing is just as scary so I see Thursday night practice as tough mental training.

Friday was another gorgeous day in Scotts Valley so Mt Charlie, Soquel/San Jose lunch ride was in order. The "new guy" wanted to join, so naturally an inititan was in order. Man.... being the new guys sucks. We weren't relentless but we had a bit of fun with him. He could barely move by the time he got back to the office. Good Times!

I am really excited for this weekend. Besides the sleeping in factor, the day is shaping up for a high of 70. YeaH!!! All of my warm clothes are in the wash, so it's shorts and jersey only today.

Sunday is SUPER DEMO DAY!!! We hitting all the trails and Demonstation Forest. I haven't had a 5+ hour moutain bike ride for 3 weeks, so I am looking foward to the challenge.

Now get out and ride!

Just another weekend of riding

2011-01-25T19:18:00.000-08:00

Well, I just finished up the dinner of champions tonight, corn chips topped with cottage cheese, with a side of peanut butter puffins and beer, and thought I would take a moment to catch up on the blog to tell ya'll the haps from last week. Besides for the usual, work, ride, eat, sleep, I had another epic weekend of mountain biking. I'm addicted to the thrill of the terrain and hitting the next jump, I think I am becoming a bit of a junkie. Me and the posse hit Demo on Saturday completing a partial mega;

Ridge, Sawpit, Tractor, Braille. I'm calling it the patial mega because Superbowl Sunday we're completing the Superbowl MEGA; Corral, Sulpher, SawPit, Tractor, Braille.

Saturday was so much fun we decided to ride again on Sunday. I'm so glad I did too. I hit 3 new jumps that I wouldn't ride 2 months ago. After 3 hours on the mountain bike on Sunday, I rode the road bike 1/5 hours home. I know, some of you might think it's a bit crazy to follow up an afternoon of mountain biking with a

90 minute road ride, but I was feeling invincible after such a great two days on the mountain bike.

Not much more to report. I am looking forward to Vanderkitten team camp February 25th - 27th and seeing all my teammy's.

Here are a few photos from Demo. I'll blog if something interesting happens.

Scheduling and Training

2011-01-16T08:28:00.000-08:00

It's week 2 into the new year and the question I have been ask a few times in the last few weeks is how do I do it? How do I manage a full time job, training and life.

Easy.... Cloning, I've named them all 6.

But seriously, It is a daily challenge but not impossible to achieve success in a sport while working and dealing with life's daily activities.

Here are a few of the things I've learned.

1st: Great coaching. My Coach, Adnan Kadir, Aeolus Coaching, works with my work and life schedule to achieve maximum performance out of my training. There are so many great coaches out there, you need to find the right fit for you and YOU'RE desired success. Someone who can work with in your capabilities and potential to help you achieve YOU'RE success. I highlight YOU'RE success because it is all about you. I have heard stories of coaches you drive athletes into the ground because that is how they succeeded or someone else has succeeded. Or better yet, coaches that train women like men and we are so much different and need to take that into consideration into our training programs and ability to succeed. I give Adnan my schedule in advance so he can work my training in around it. I'll go into more detail about my training and other great coaches I've meet in another blog post. In the meantime you can visit http://www.aeolusendurance.com/.

2nd: Prep work. I do so much prep work for the next day it's absurd but really, it helps. Here are a few examples of my prep work. When I get home from work, I get into my fat pants a a huge warm sweat shirt and get to the computer to double check my schedule and the weather. I then pack my gear bag, based on weather conditions, for my next days workout and set it my the door.

When I make dinner, I will be making my lunches for the next day.

If I have a morning trainer ride, I will prep my bike on the trainer, towel, water bottle, ride video, headphones and lay our my gear. When I get up in the morning it change and mount.

I do my best to pick out my work clothes for the next day and lay them out.

I prep my coffee the night before so all I have to do is turn on the burner.

3rd: Scheduling: Seems like at any point in the day I am on a schedule. It can get ridiculous but it works for me. I schedule, training, eating, sleep, eating, shopping, blogging, socializing, eating, working and eating. Scheduling time for these things helps me to manage the chaos. A typical week schedule for me looks like this:

Monday: 7:00 am wake up

8-5:30 work

5:30-6:15 grocery shop

6:30 dinner

7-9 Down time/Prep time, movie or book.

9:00 BED

Tuesday: 6:00 am wake up, 6:30 to 7:30

Training ride, 8:30-11:45 work

12-1 Yoga

1:20-6:00 work

6:30 Dinner

7-9 Downtime/prep work, Downtime

9:00 BED

Wednesday

6:30 Wake up

7:30 work

12-2 training ride with intervals

2:30 - 6 work

6:30 dinner

7-9 Downtime/prep work, Downtime

9:00 BED

Thursday:

7:30 Wake up

8:00 Work

12-1 Training run

1:15 t0 6 work

6:30 dinner POTENTIAL DATE NIGHT

8-10 Downtime/prep work, Downtime

10:00 BED

Friday

7:45 Wake up

8-5 Work

6:00 Yoga

6-7 Dinner time

6-10 Open night for social activities.

Saturday

6-9 Wake up, enjoy social media, FB, blog, email

10-11 Ride start

10-3/4 ride

4-5 Veg out

6-8 Dinner

7-10 WHATEVER

Sunday:

8-12 ERRANDS and chores. I must say this is a a huge secret. So many people sleep in on Sunday, I head out and so my errands, i.e. bank, farmers market, garden shop, target, ETC. some places are not open till 11 but hit them at 11 and they are not too busy.

1-5 Ride

5-7 open

8-10 Bed

#4 Embrace that Chaos.

When traveling to El Salvador racing the vuelta down there a few years ago were were hit with so many road blocks it was insane. Typically you schedule arrival time, start times, warm up times, meal times etc. I was really getting stressed out. One morning we arrived at the start 10 minutes before the gun. We were running late because we were following the race director around trying to find a start line. We get out of the car, start to get our bikes and the race organizer says, "No, I don't like this, we move". I had it. I was almost in tears and them my teammy Kele Murdin, looked at me and said "we just need to embrace the chaos". From that moment on I have "Embraced the Chaos", in life and in riding. Good thing I really embraced the chaos at that moment. That was the year El Salvador was hit with an earthquake, flood and a volcano. Another day another blog on those details.

These are just some of the things I do. Take from it what you like. Remember it's you're training and you're life. Suck the essence from it and enjoy the journey.

Enjoy the ride

JennX

The Banter of a Resolution

2011-01-08T10:45:00.001-08:00

Being that it is already the 8th of January you can see that improving my procrastination is not on my resolution list.

The truth is, the more I think about what to resolve the more banter that comes to my head.

Yeah yeah , there is the usual:

weight loss goals, work smarter, save more, call my mom more, train more.

I really want to make a change, but finding the time, com'mon! I workout just long enough to get the most out of my workout and rest short enough to not be considered a couch potato. I love a handful cookies after a long ride and wash down a hard week of work with a bottle of Merlot. Oh, not to mention that I work 40 to 50 hours a week.

Ah, here's a good one.. less injury for 2011. I had 3 crashes on my left hip and one concussion in 2010. Well.... I think I can through that in the resolution toilet. I finished up 2010 with an emergency room visit on Christmas eve (cut index finger to the bone, 6 stitches) and started off the New Year with a root canal! Sweet!

After roomin with my NSW teammy Tiff, I need to become more Italian.... I almost ruined a pasta dinner with my unethical Italian style cooking practices. I used to take pride in my cooking.

Some days I resolve to grow out my body hair and live in a yurt for 6 months to "find" myself but half the population of Santa Cruz County already does that.

OK, how bout read more. I don't' think my second round of Twilight counts as a resolution.

Watch less TV... are you kidding me.... I haven't made a dent in the Netflix library.

2010 brought on a lot of change already for me. A huge move to Northern California, upgrade from an all mountain bike to 6" travel, 2 promotions in 11 months, a bucket list trip to Australia, a new car, sheesh.... no wonder I have felt a bit "stressed out". How bout, a resolution to settle in and enjoy my new surroundings finally.

Funny, just the other morning while at work, I made a comment while passing by a friend of mine. I got to the door of my office and they said.... Jennifer, what no hello, nothing. It struck me like a bolt of lighting, I have been so absorbed in my change and my own world of what Jen needs to do, it's time to settle in to my surroundings and start to make new friends and find new places for me to hang. People here have asked for my time to: ride with them, shop, dine, call and hang out and have a beer. So tomorrow, weather pending... I will hit Surf City Cross in Santa Cruz and I have scheduled a shopping day with a lady at work.

One thing has not change with all of 2010, is my time in the kitchen. In this photo is me cookin' paninis wearing the new apron my cuz gave me, cutting on the new walnut cutting board my mom gave me modeling with then knife that about took my finger off on Christmas eve and finishing off the hard week with a bottle of 337 Cabernet.

Some things will never change, cycling is my rock! I am in full off season training mode and hitting to road of a structured training program but you already knew that!

Now go ride!

VK puts Tiff and Liza in the top 10 for Cronulla

2010-12-11T23:53:00.001-08:00

You could not ask for a more perfect day to race at the beach. Sunny and warm with a strong on shore wind to keep people just cool enough to enjoy spectating. The course suited the kittens. It had drag race straight a ways, with a u-ball at one end and a P at the other with a bitch in it that hurt the legs every lap.

VK put down the gauntlet from the gun, with Emily launching an attack around the U-ball and driving it up the hill. From them on it was game on for all teams. The Honda Dreamers where going to have to work to win this one. It was pretty much the Vestal Virgins and the Kittens taking out a cat fight on Honda.

I launched some awesome attacks, which of course Honda brought back. Then Emily countered, Honda reeled in, then a Virgin, then a Starla, Liza, Tiff and so on. It was SICK (as our teammy Jazz would say).
We defiantly put the hurt on the entire race. In the sprint Liza and Tiff were able to hang in there for a top 10 finish with, Me, Em and Star, holding on to the end of the finishing pack for 12-15.
As far as the rest of the day goes it was goes it was all about letting the hair down. We hit Cronulla Beach, swam in the waves…IN DECEMBER!.... Had 4 cappucinos, 2 lattes, and a shopping spree. Yippie! Now I must bid my fans adue as we need to shower and perty ourselves up for an evening of….. well…. Whatever it might bring.

GAME ON Kiwis!

VK rocks it in Coogee

2010-12-11T02:17:00.000-08:00

Coogee was awesome, a tough 918 meters hot dog course with a up hill finish for 22 laps. It was really a great day of racing for Vanderkitten. We all were aggressive and saw the front on the peleton several times. We launched several aggressive attacks that were countered by Virgin Blue or brought back by the Honda Dream Team. with 12 laps to go a small pack of 8 got about 5 meters off the front and Tiffany launched to it. By the time the peleton saw the U-ball the pack of 8 had about 15 meters. I sprinted to the front and sat up, trying to give Tiff and the break a bit of a lead. A few more VKs monitored the front and in about 4 laps the pack of 8 had 25 seconds. The break (1 VK, 1 Honda, 2 Virgin, 4 Oz indies) stayed off the front till the finish. Tiff, finished 6th. We are all exctied for Tiff and VK. The media coverage was awesome in front of cheering crowds.

We hung out and watched the mens race and headed over the "The Aquarium" which is a huge beach bar and restaurant. We hung with friends and took a dip in the Ocean. The New Zealander celebrated Starla's birthday today by tossing her in the ocean. I posted photo on VK FB page.

We have finally arrived where we started, at the Abcott Inn, where will be for the rest of the weekend. The final stage is in Cronulla, stage time, 12:10.

Vanderkitten get a call out! - Gosford Day 3

2010-12-10T12:04:00.000-08:00

After a restful day we headed to Gosford for an evening crit. On the start line I was interviewed by the race announcer, Mike Tomalres, and tuned up the crowd letting them know that we were going to SMASH IT! And that we were here to play.
And play we did, we launched several attacks. I was so impressed with Emily, Starla and Jazzies attacks. They were really aggressive and had so much potential to be a break but Honda Dream Team was having none of that and chased us down and would not work with us when we were in a break together.
The course was 818 meter and 23 laps. It was a hot dog course that was full throttle on the straights a ways, a fist full of breaks around the corners and standing start sprints out of the corners, so you can imagine how much fun it was being at the end of slinky all night.
The end sprint was a bit hectic sending a Russian Team member to the hospital and disqualifying winner and series leader Rochelle Gilmore for moving a meter in the sprint. Liza Placed 5th and Tiffany placed 7th.
We finished up the race at 8:40 and made for a Chinese Fire drill making our way back to the hotel that was 6 miles away. Liza called the local Thai food place that delivered until 9:30p.m, I handed out lights so we could be slightly seen on the ride home and we all got single file for the adventure that was about to begin. Who’da thought that we would be heckled the entire ride home. People were absolutely shocked to see 6 women riding home in the dark. One boy even yelled out “You should get off the bike and ride me”. Little to say that the road between Gosford and Terrigal is very popular on a Friday night.

No rest for the weary, we have to load up the bikes, whenever it gets back from the race pack our luggage and also put it in the truck before we head to bed. We are out the door at 8:30 to head to Coogee for a 2:20pm start.

More tomorrow.

Paramatta Stage 2: Liza top 10?

2010-12-09T22:39:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the late post. After the race we had a 2 hour transfer. We didn’t get out of the Paramatta until 8 pm and arrived at the Country Comfort hotel in Terrigal until after 10 p.m.
After a 3 hour transfer from Bathurst to Paramatta yesterday afternoon, VK arrived at the race course excited and ready to ROCK! As ready to ROCK it as we were mentally, the physical aspects of our off season legs came into play late night. Never mind the fact that is was 33 celcius, humid, stick and no breeze when we started racing, the course was a screaming descent with a big chain ring grinder uphill. The surges last night were kicking my ass. Round the corner, up the hill, round the corner up the hill, AGH!!! There were 30 laps last night; I sprinted 28 of them. Liza and Tiffany rode well at the front. They got a great start and maintained it. The Honda Dream Team maintained control of the front of the race for the night, but Tiffany and Jazzie managed to get the VK name out there a few times. We are not quite sure where Liza placed in the top 5-10 but will find out for sure tonight.

The day leading up to the race:
Tiff and I caravanned with the Auzzie Rider, Nicky (Bella Velo) and a few Kiwis, Slippery Sam and A-Ray. Tiff and I learned several key sayings while on our drive through the Blue Mountain Range. Some of them are:
U-Ball (U-Turn)
Crush it (Drilling it)
Going for a tap (going for a spin)
I totally rate that (that’s cool)
Go knock it up (mix it up in the race)
Fankles (Cankles)

We had lunch in Blackheath in the afternoon. We have ad such great food here. The Turkish bread is amazing along with all the veggies they include in the sammy.

We arrived in Paramatta around 3:30 and would not race until 6. We grabbed our wallets and headed into the city center for a proper coffee and some water. After, we rested in Paramatta Park and learned that the oldest building in Australia is in Paramatta and it was a dairy cottage.

Today we spent the morning eating and checking out the town of Terrigal. I posted some photos on the Vanderkitten FB page. This afternoon we are relaxing, blogging and other social media to keep our fans in the loop. Tonight we race at 7:50 under the lights.

Enjoy
Photo - Tiff and I, lunch in Blackheath

Vanderkitten’s Emily Kachorek, 5th in Bathurst

2010-12-08T02:53:00.000-08:00

A very successful evening in Bathurst tonight, Emily 5th, Tiffany Pizzulo 7th and Starla Teddergreen 10th. There is so much to cover about our day today here are the quick details about the race. Field included the Vanderkitten Super team, Honda Dream team, Virgin Blue, AIS, NSW AIS, Russia, New Zealand and a handful of other small Aussie teams. The course was only 500 to 600 meters and we did 36 hot laps. Vanderkitten represented well with breaks and attacks. Me and Liza both initiated breaks that had potential but Honda Dream team shut everything that was a treat. In the end Emily made a move up the side at 2 laps to go and stayed in the hunt for 5th. We are chilling in out hotel tonight on the Bathurst race track before heading out to Paramatta tomorrow.

Today started off great with a small cup of gas station coffee and a bit of work on the internet. Tiffany hit to local farmers market and bought some fresh fruit, cheese, jam and bread walked back to the hotel and had breakfast out by the pool.

We loaded up and headed out to Bathurst at 9:30. The 3 hours drive North West of Sydney took us through the Blue Mountains. The views were spectacular. I posted some photos on facebook.

Upon arrive I had to ask. What the heck is in Bathurst. Well, there is a world famous race track that has been around for 80 years. The track is used for racing Ford and Holden cars. These two manufactures are competitive with each other and the racing in Bathurst is very popular in for Australia and New Zealand.

Our hotel in on the race course. It crazy I have posted on facebook photos of our 360 degree view from the front room. We have an apartment; 3 bedroom, 2 baths and an kitchen.

Gotta go. Tiffany (our resident Italian) just cooked up so pasta with chicken and fresh bread. It smells so yummy in out hotel room.

More tomorrow.

Tuesday December 7th in Australia

2010-12-07T00:19:00.000-08:00

Wow, I'm here in Sydney Australia and it is amazing. Sunny and 80 greeted us at the airport and we have been on the move since we arrived. Airport pick up was at 7:40 a.m. By the time we cleared customs and immigration we were greeted by Johnathan Vandevelde (Yep, Christian's dad) and Cameron Bates (Son of Phil Bates, the promoter) who loaded us up in a van an took us to the hotel. No rest for the celeberties. We had a press conference at 10:30 and Chris Sutton (Team Sky) was meeting at the hotel to ride to the press confernce at 10 a.m. sharp. We had 65 min to get 5 girls, checked in, bikes built, showed and to the show.

No problem, this VK team is a well oiled machine. All of us were ready in 50 min and even had a moment to relax and have a cup of coffee before we headed out.

The press conference gave us a good idea on how BIG this event is and race promoter Phil Bates. The entire week will be highlighted on Channel 9 and the last 2 stages will be a live feed. The theme that Channel 9 in going with is It's ON. And it sure is. I found out today that Phil Bates is the man around these parts. He puts on several events in and around Sydney including events that raised 8 million dollars for a pancreatic cancer ward at the local hospital. Phil put The NSW series together in 8 weeks. Vanderkitten is proud to be chosen as the American team to come over and play in this 1st ever crit series.

From Press conference to ride time, we hit the road with Chris Sutton and Ed Clancey (British National Team for a ride down the 1. I am out of practice riding on the wrong side but we sure had a great ride.

After a shower and a change we went to a great patio restaurant called La Zona cafe (1/754 The Kingsway, Gymea NSW 2227) The food was refreshing! It is so great to have fresh summer fruit in December.

We spent the rest of the evening, reading, TV or working on social networking. We are all a big Jet lagged so plan on hitting the sack early tonight and getting a good nights sleep.

Tomorrow we have a 3 hour drive through the moutain to get to Race # 1 in Bathurst. We race at 6 so I may not be able to get a post up till Thursday morning. Check Vanderkitten facebook page for photos

Team includes: Starla Teddergreen, Lisa Rachetto, Emily Kachorek, Tiffany Pezzulo, Jazzy Hurikino and Me.

Day 8

2010-10-11T18:03:00.000-07:00

I promised I would write every day. This one will be quick. Feeling better. May have found a test to see how I my head is doing. I'll look at it and write more tomorrow. Right now I am heading to the gym for a quick, low impact, not to stressful workout.

Later.

Weekend Report - Simple Concussion

2010-10-10T08:36:00.000-07:00

Finally getting some down time this weekend I was able to do a bit of research about concussions. Crazy to see how advanced our medical technology is these days, but the brain is a complex system to figure out and there are discoveries and new research conclussions being made all the time. I did find out some tidbits that I thought I would share.

A handful of people have asked me if I blacked out when I hit my head. I can't remember this bit of information. What I do remember is seeing Megan's front wheel, then dragging myself off the track. I don't remember the hit, or the 15 50 20 meters I slid along the track and I don't know where my bike was. When I was on the ground thinking my hip was broken I think the pain and adrenaline kicked in overdrive and I became consciously aware of my situation. When I have crashed in the past I see everything in slow motion.

I found a great UK website called Peak Performance who had some great information on concussions more athlete focused. I found out that there are 2 types of concussions:

Simple concussion – characterised by an uneventful progressive recovery within seven to 10 days with rest being the most important component of management. Most concussions fall into this category.

Complex concussion – where recovery takes longer than seven to 10 days and/or is complicated by problems such as fits, recurrence of symptoms associated with exercise or prolonged unconsciousness.

I think it is safe to say that I have a simple concussion and mostly need rest to recovery. Yesterday I hit the town to run some errands and immediately realized that I was still off. I past the gas station twice. When I was at the nursery I could not keep focused, all of the choices of plants was too much information. Then when I went shopping I was a bit sick to my stomach. 3 different people took one look at me and asked if I had any questions. I think my blank and confused look must have been the indicator. When I got home I was drained and needed to sit down and assess my energy levels

I'm in day 7 of recovery and am enjoying the down time from physical training but I am thinking about the gym, yoga and mountain biking. If you come back stronger after a rest week, maybe after this recovery I'll return smarter, stronger, fast, more quick witted and able to remember peoples names on the first introduction.

Tomorrow I'll write about returning to sport too soon the be dangerous and giving athletes a preseason Neuropsychological tests in high risk sports.

PS. I felt this photo fitting because my brain feel slow and slimy a bit like a banana slug!

DAY 5 OF RECOVERY-

2010-10-08T17:48:00.000-07:00

What a difference a day makes. When I went home last night I was sluggish and distraught that was still not a 100%, I had to rest. After a good night sleep, I felt a bit groggy this morning but by mid morning I was feeling so much better. I did much better multi-tasking today and was happy and motivated to challenge my skills. My co workers said they could see me feeling better by my eyes.

I worked well through the day and hit a massage at lunch. As I was considering my weekend plans... i.e. a little mountain bike ride, the Doc calls to see how I was doing. I told him how much better I was feeling and was considering a weekend full of activities. Not so fast he tells me, you still need time to heal. I thought he was crazy, I have felt worse than this on better days. We talked about a hike or other activities that would be less jarring on the head.

As I sit here finishing up my work day I think he may be right. I am getting a bit of a head ache and feeling tired. I want to go home and close my eyes and listen to a movie.

This is a photo of Megan Hottman's bike. I hit her front wheel at full speed.

Day 3 Irritably Hurt!

2010-10-06T17:20:00.001-07:00

I seriously wish there was a 1-800 help line with a head injury. Last night the paid in my head hurt so much I would have stabbed my eye with a fork if it would have relieved some of the pressure. To wake up this morning stiff and feeling worse physically did not help my attitude heading into the start of another day not being up to full speed.

I did a bit of web research and found out it is “normal” to feel irritable and depressed in addition to other symptoms such as headache, nausea, ringing in the ears, neck pain, and feeling anxious, upset, irritable and tired. What I do about it is the challenge. When my attitude is down in the dumps, I usually head out for a ride or other physical activity to pep me up but that is not an option yet.

I have been dabbling around in a few books and puttering around the garden. I did manage to cook up some blueberry bran muffins and a batch of chocolate chip and anything else in the cupboard cookies but the real challenge will come this weekend when I might go a bit stir crazy.

I have thought about getting some Soduku puzzle books but can’t get through those when my mind is sharp. Then I thought about diving into Netflix and stay in my PJ’s all weekend while I eat may way through the entire Ben and Jerry’s collection.

I’ll look into some more “brain challenges” tomorrow. Who knows if that will even help? I hope to touch base with a few other seasoned riders who have recovered from a head injury for some advice.

“Thought of the Day”

To me this seems more like life advice

The treatment for a concussion is rest. If you have a concussion, you will need to quiet your mind as well as your body for healing to take place

Day 2 of head injury recovery

2010-10-05T16:04:00.001-07:00

This is a photo of my hip. My head and hip hit at the same impact on the Velodrome floor. If my hip looks like this, can you imagine how my head feels? I hope to find video of the event and of my crash. I would like to see what my body did and where in the heck my bike went.

The most obvious and annoying thing about a head injury is you can’t see it. I woke up this morning groggy and hurting, kind of like I need to hook up to the coffee I.V. Even after my morning cup of coffee I still feel like I had a head cold. Today was the day to schedule the MRI. After scheduling I found out the co pay is 430.45 in cash, no personal checks or credit cards. WOW, that’s a doozie.

It was a bit rough getting through the day. I need to work at 100% but am only at about 70%. I want to work fast but my brain is no computing that quickly. Seems that everyone has a story about a head injury; they either knew someone who had an injury or just read in the paper about someone whose life was affected severely from head trauma.

We have advanced in so many ways but our brain is still old fashioned. Our bodies become more efficient and we build up immunities and tolerance but yet our brain needs to be treated like an elderly person in senior care.

I have to thank everyone for their stories and concerns. It’s really hard on me being an elite athlete and not being able to head out on a ride, or take a quick run to feel better.

Insight of the day:

Cumulative trauma of the brain causes dementia in older age

Nationals medal and a head injury

2010-10-04T18:05:00.001-07:00

Nationals is always really hard. I mean common, the best in the nation show up to ride to be crowned #1 in the nation. As I step back and reflect on the event, I am happy to have tied for 10th in the points race and place 5th in the madison, with partner Kate Wilson, after a violent crashed that almost had me out of the race. In this photos is Kate (shes 17) and I at the podium ceremony. Which brings me to the purpose of the next few weeks of blogging.

After visiting my doc today, I decided to blog daily about healing from a head injury. I have been diagnosed with a concussion but and in good shape. What does that mean? I am a bit foggy headed and slow on the uptake and need to rest and heal my brain. We've scheduled a MRI to check out how much my brain has suffered this season. Although I have only had 4 crashes and broken 2 helmets, this last crashed has opened my eyes to needing to heal the brain.

Head injuries are on the rise and we can recover, we just need to be a good patient and actually recover from a brain/head injury. Doc says that the brain is like tofu. If you give it a good whack, it jiggles quite a bit. Our brain jiggling inside our skull is not a good thing. Helmets to protect the initial impact but not the bouncing around of the brain in the skull.

Doc says about 2 to 3 weeks of non risk taking activity. He said he doesn't even want me riding to work and no alcohol. To think, I've been waiting 6 months for the season to end to open a fine bottle of scotch.

I'll keep this post short but I plan to research head and brain injury and blog about my recovery and results. I'll try to get some insight from "THE DOME" Easton Bells new research and testing facility to see what their doing in research of new helmets.

Tour De Nez Wrap up

2010-06-21T19:12:00.000-07:00

The Tour Dez Nez was quite the eventful bike race for us Kittens. All of us had success in the TT with me placing 8th, Starla 9th and Anna 11th. We went into Friday nights crit with high hopes of a win. The Friday night crit was a new course to the Nez. The 1.5 mile crit wound it's way around a park and over the Truckee river in Downtown Reno. A mighty tailwind made for epic sprints down the finishing straight away. the crit was aggressive with Tibco, Luna Chix, Touchstone, Third Pillar and VK trying to get in a breakway. At 2 laps to go the first crash of the evening the took me out resulted in me chasing the entire last lap only to catch on 1K to the finish. Anna took the win, I took 10th. But... Here's the kicker!

There was an EXTREMELY bad crash and the narrowing part of the finish taking out Starla and a Tibco, MS Now and a Third Pillar rider. The chief referee decided to relegate Anna to last stating that she caused the crash. Of course Anna did not cause the crash and we protested the decision but the decision held firm at the relegation.

Starla spend 1/2 the evening in ER but she is recovering well. She has bad road rash and lots of contusions. She busted her Stork but our mechanic Dan is building her up another. Thanks Dan!

NORTHSTAR! The final stage was hosted by Northstar ski resort. It was beautiful and fun. The course was challenging, fast and technical. The best part was racing through the village on the brick with all the spectators lounging around. It was really a great feeling to be in such a beautiful place to ride! I ended up 9th in the stage. Anna crashed out in a technical turn. As I write she is on her way to San Diego to get her shoulder looked at.

3 days, 3 stage, I managed to finish 7th in GC for the weekend.

2nd in Testerossa Womens Points Race

2010-06-12T08:07:00.000-07:00

May I just say.... Helleyer Velodrome knows how to put on a track race. The fields were stacked last night. Van loads of riders came down from Oregon, even more from the mid states and Jamie Carney came out from T-Town PA. There was a VIP tent on the infield with a BBQ and wine and on the back stright there were kegs of Sierra NV flowing! You can imagine the crowds great racing and cocktails brought to the oval.

I arrived a bit late to the event but managed did get to watch a few mens races. Oh, my gosh, I cannot believe how fast some of these guys are. My jaw dropped when I saw some of these guys excellerate. I wish I could tell you some of their name but there will be a few sounds bites on Bike Sport radio on Monday with results.

As for me.... I raced the womens points race. It was a stacked field with Jenn Triplett (Broadmark), Shelly Evans and Ruth Winder (PB &CO), and Laura McCaughey (Salamander) to name a few. 40 laps, 4 sprints, only 4 opportunites to get points. I quickly realized after the first sprint that I was no match for these big sprinters who came here to win EVERY sprint. The field was no match for PB&Co as the kept launching the most killer attacks. Seriously, attacks that rip your legs off. The 3rd attack had Hanana Alvers (PB&Co) off the front gaining distance on the field. Well, after a handful of those and me humiliating myself in the sprints, quickly going from the front to the back of the pack in 50 meters, I made a decision to make a indescrete move of the front. I saw that Hanan was slowly coming back to the field. My indescrete move got 25 meters on the pack rather quickly. I think they thought they would catch the two of us, I am not sure but as soon as I saw that I could catch Hanan, it was game on.

When I did catch here she was willing to work together since we had 18 laps to go and on a 333 outdoor track.... that's a lot. I managed to take the 2nd sprint, for 5 points, but I knew we had to catch the field to secure the podium. I took a deep breathe and got into pursuit mode. Hanan and I did 1/2 lap pulls.

WE DID IT!!!!! 20 points!!! with 6 laps to go. Now all I need to do was get 2nd or better to win the points race. At 2 laps to go I was thinking just stay upright, I am a bit blown for a final sprint. I am really happy for 2nd. Good for me, great for the team. It was a PB&Co kitty sandwich with Shelly Evans 3rd and Hanan Alvers with the win.

Tonight.... Miss and Out and the Scratch race. Wish me luck!

June update

2010-05-31T09:36:00.000-07:00

June is set to be a busy month of racing. The team heads out to Tulsa Oklahoma this week to race the Tulsa Tough June 4-6. Tulsa is a fantastic event that brings one of the largest women's pelotons to the pro circuit.

June 11-12th is the American Veldrome Challenge at the Helleyer Velodrome in San Jose. This is a fantastic event for spectating and racing. Although I have not hit the track since National in October, this will be a fantastic race to start my track season.

June 17-19 is the Tour de Nez in Truckee CA at the Northstar Resort. The Nez is an omnium event with a ITT and 2 circuit races.

June 20 - Nevada City Grand Prix. I did this race about 5 or 6 years ago and it was one of the toughest circuit races I have ever done.

I am a guest radio personality on Bike Sport Radio on Mondays at 12:00. Brad House is the host of the show. The show covers bike racing, results, safety and other bike stuff. It's pretty fun to listen too. You can find them on facebook or at KillRadio.org

Photo: Banana Slug of Santa Cruz. Since moving here in January this is my second sighting. Seems that I only see one on a damp day when I am in teh mist of a hellish climb.

With a busy June, I'll be bloggin' lots... stay tuned!

Beaufort Crit

2010-04-28T06:55:00.000-07:00

The week of speed continued last night at the Beaufort Criterium in downtown Beaufort, South Carolina. The field has dwindled down a bit since Athens due to crashed out injuries and a few women heading off to Gila NM for the tour there but it was still fast and aggressive. Us kittens were down to two riders last night, with Erika still recovering from her Athens injuries, we could not be as active as we would have like to have been but still made the best of it

Colavita, Vera Bradley Foundation and Team Type One have been battling it out here making in tough for primes and podium finishes. Starla got the VK name out there sprinting for a prime and continuing on to get in a break with Colavita Rider and tibco for 3 laps. The race had some interesting dynamics with the pack shattering at 40 laps to go. Some riders were lapped, some dropped out. Rushlee Buchanan (Colavita/Baci) put in the perfect attack to solo for the win. Meanwhile the pack was battling it out for 2nd and 3rd. There was another break off the front at 12 to go with about 10 riders that look like it would stick but by 3 laps to go it was all together, with Rushlee still off the front. Starla flatted out at 2 to go and went to wheel change and chase but the cheif ref, Joan, would not let her back in. Me, I sprinted for 20th.

Tonight Walterboro!

Athens Roswell Beaufort

2010-04-26T19:55:00.000-07:00

I am finally getting a moment to sit down and post a bit for all of you following Speedweek out here. It has been a successful trip already with Anna Lang placing 7th at Athens Twilight and 4th at Roswell crit. We are so close to a win I can feel it

Athens has its own challenges this year with the rain. The course is always fast with fast corners but add a bit of rain and you have a danger zone. The women managed only a few crashes but the last corner before bell lap took out about 15 women including 3 of the 4 of us.

No worries, besides for a bit of head trauma, contusions and road rash, our spirits are up.

Roswell was a warm and sunny day with a great turn out. Roswell is fast and fun. I enjoy the hill on the back side. Yes, it make the course challenging but my mouth waters as we pass the rib joint on the back side every time, I always consider turning into the driveway instead of finishing hte race. Personally I was a bit sore and content to try and make a big move if it there were an opening but the opportunity to not present iteself and I managed to finish in the pack. Anna finisihed 4th with Starla and Ericka in the top 20.

We made the long trip to Beaufort SC today. It is always worth the drive coming out here. Besides for the great racing, our host Gary and Pat had the neighbors and team Vera Bradley and Colovita over for dinner. We just wrapped things up, cleaned up the kitchen and are ready to hit the sack for a full day of resting and an evening of racing.

more to come...(Photo is from our host house deck at sunset this evening).

JennX

SEA OTTER 2010

2010-04-22T08:56:00.000-07:00

Sea Otter was a blast. I finished the circuit race, worked 30 hours and had fun doing it! I have been to Sea Otter 11 times..... This was the best year ever. I was having so much fun in the sun this was the only photo I managed to take. Next up... SPEED WEEK. Stay tuned.

Back from Killer Dana

2010-04-13T17:59:00.000-07:00

The racing season is HERE! Everyone is asking how Dana Point went, so I finally found a spare moment to give you the quick. Dana Point was a blast. A fast a technical course that suits all types of riders. Even though this promoter decided not to maintain a NRC status for the women, several top level riders gave quite the show. In addition to Vanderkitten other team racing included; Helen's who has senior ride Suzanne Sonye who rode for Saturn and Pam Schuster who last rode with Auto Trader, Corine Rivera Peanut Butter 20/12, MS NOW, Incycle and more to fill a field of 50 women. As Dana Point was still a warm up race for our new teammys we raced to win launching several attacks and a handful of solo breakaways. It was definitely the Helens vs. VK show. Helen's would launch and be brought back then VK would launch, and vise versa. VK tried to cover everything but in the end the podium went to the Juniors with Kendall Ryan winning the field sprint over Maria Lechuga (Unattached) and fellow junior Coryn Rivera Peanut Butter & Co. TWENTY 12, who finished second and third respectively. VK took 5th Anna Lang, 6th Jenn Wilson, 9th Ericka Graves. We feel good and are excited to all be back together for SpeedWeek 4/24 - 5/2. Next Race Sea Otter 4/17.

PS the photo in this shot was just something I took last night and thought I would share the view

Peace out!

Xster

New Home Sweet Home

2010-02-07T17:02:00.000-08:00

I'm finally coming up for air after moving from Chatsworth to Scotts Valley the 18th of January. The first few weeks were hectic, as we all know the weather has been WET! It started raining the day I arrived and we have only had about 5 dry days since. Even today, it was supposed to be sunny without a cloud in the sky. It ended up being cloudy and even a bit of drizzle.

The first week the house lost power for 4 days. The movers had to move our stuff in the rain and in the pitch black. No rest for the weary. I immedatly put in a 45 hour work week, spending the day unpacking at work and the nights unpacking at home.

The riding when I have been able to get out on the road has been great. The redwoods are beautiful. The climmbing intense. My coworkers are in great shape. I spend most of the time chaseing them. No doubt I will be uping my game this season, just due the the competitive lunch rides at work. Today was the longest ride I have been able to do, 50 miles with 3200 feet of climbing.

I am posting a photo of the group I went riding with last weekend up Mt Diablo. We had a blast. It was a bit of a drive for me but well worth it to meet my new teammy Starla and see my coach Adnan before he headed off back to Portland. In the photo L-R is Adnan, Starla, Me, Adam and Jeff.

More to come. I hope to get better weather so I can start posting photos of the views around this place. Pretty awesome!

Enjoy!

Winter Training???

2009-12-21T07:04:00.000-08:00

Gotta tell you.... it's tough to get in to off season training when your riding in 65 degree temps in December. Wheels and I planned a mid day mid week training ride down to the coast and back last week. This is a photo from the middle of Latigo Rd. 3 miles into an 8 mile climb. Although Jenn and I train a lot on our own we try to hook up for a ride at least every other week together. Having a training partner really helps you get trough a long work week; training and the 9-5 daylighting we do for income. We're both climbing strong. Not fast....strong. Lifting weights a few days a week makes the legs sore. On top of the lifting Wheels did all the climbing in a bi gear at 50 cadence. This day we climbed 3100 feet in 32 miles and had a blast doing it.

VK in the off season

2009-12-07T13:05:00.000-08:00

I don't even know where to start. I have been a bit out of touch since Anna and I winning the first ever Womens Madison on October 4th. Since then, I have recovered, celebrated another birthday, started running, and in the process of moving to Scotts Valley CA. In the meantime..... I have started my winter training program. I have a personal trainer from Marshall Fitness www.teammarshallperformance.com. It's pretty amazing the training he has been putting me through. It has given me new perspective on effective strength conditioning. The VK team has been confirmed for 2010 and has a formal announcement at www.vanderkittenracing.com. Even though I feel like the 09 season just ended, I am excited for 2010.

This is a photo of Wilson and I out mountain bike riding. We had a blast. I'll be better about posting more photos and blogs for everyone. Promise.

RECOVERY IS KEY TO SANITY

2009-09-30T07:22:00.000-07:00

I can't believe, the road season is over. It's been such a whirlwind for the past 4 weeks, my head is still grasping the concept that I am racing Track Nationals this week. Vegas as some of you may have seen was a HUGE success as Vanderkitten won the team competition for the USA crit series. We were in second place heading into the Vegas finale, but with 4 women in the top 20 we gained enough points on Tibco to take the title for the second year in a row, yahoo!!!

I finally got a weekend day home to relax, recover and enjoy some down time. I took this photo of my downtime space for you to enjoy. I had all the necessities; the paper, coffee, water, Internet, trash magazine and great weather on my patio with birds chirping and horses stepping through the canyon. I will be racing this week in Carson CA, at Track Nationals. I will be competing in the international style omnium, team pursuit, scratch, points, and madison. It will be a big week but I am look forward to it. Wish me luck.

Silver and Bronze at Masters Nationals

2009-08-24T15:59:00.000-07:00

It's been a whirlwind. Most people prepare months for nationals, well I guess I don't fall into the "most" people catergory. After a last minute change of the race schedule, I had to reschedule my flight so that I could race Friday night instead of Saturday night. It is really amazing how things work out when it is mean to be. I managed to get the last seat on the morning flight into Denver. A local rider from LA who I met a few times at Encino also decided last minute to head out to Master Nats was on my same flight and gave me a ride to the track in Colorado Springs. A few close friends of mine who were racing all week hosted me and let me use the hide away bed for the duration of my stay. These same friends helped me get to the track every day and let me borrow their parents and their camera to go do some siteseeing on Satuday. On top of all that coming together the support and friends at Nationals is AMAZING.

The positive vibe and support gave me a boost of confidence for my points race. I could hear my "fans" cheering for me all around the track. It was pure inspiration. I raced one hell of a points race. I was racing to win and it showed. In the end I missed the stars and bars by 2 points, but it was quite a show.

Team Hammer 123 that I participated in for the team pursuit made a great effort for a bronze finish and a great way to finish up a week of Masters Nationals.

I'll post more photos later in the week when I settle in from the chaos that IS RACING.

Thanks to everyone who called, wished me luck and supported me through Nats. The list is long and I hope to talk to all of you one on one soon!

NEW BLING ****

2009-08-13T09:24:00.000-07:00

Nothing like a little new bling to get you more excited about going fast at Nationals. Some very special Easton peeps put these wheel together for me to go for gold at track nationals. What a difference wheels and new tires make. The EAston TKO's are much stiffer than my clinchers and I stick better to the track with new tires.

It's been a week of more driving to train than riding. I feel a bit guilty about my eco print and thinking that I am going to have to ride my bike to work EVERYDAY to make up for all the emmissions I have put into the air driving to the track. No racing for me this weekend, but VK is heading out to win crit nationals in Downers Grove Illinois. I am heading to the dirt this weeekend out at Los Robles trail with a bunch of friends then spending the rest of the week tuning up for Masters Track Nats in Colorado Springs 8/22/09. I will be competing in the points race on Saturday night and the Team Pursuit on Sunday Morning. Wish me luck!!!

Jenn Wins National Qualifier

2009-08-04T21:20:00.000-07:00

Yahoo! I did it. I can't believe it, I'm in peak form and happy to win the individual pusuit and place 3rd in the Match Sprints to earn a qualification slot in endurance and sprint events. The rest of the week I am just tuning up to hit it hard out in South Carolina this weekend. I can't wait to visit with my teammates and go for a win. Wish us the best of luck!

Prepin' for National Qualifier

2009-07-31T16:38:00.000-07:00

Prepin' to race a National qualifier in the middle of summer at the Encino Velodrome (Encinio CA) is serious business. With Masters Nationals right around the corner, there will be some stiff competition tomorrow. I am starting early to get me bottles, food, clothes and gear that I'll need for tomorrow and I thought I would share this photo of my fridge with all my drink product for me, one rider racing 4 events. Crazy. Thank goodness I have my Mototabs. Temps call for low 100's tomorrow and I'll be sweating and need to properly hydrate all day tomorrow. To all my followers and fans, think fast thoughts for me tomorrow for me to qualify. I'll be racing 3K pursuit, team sprint, sprint and scratch race. More info about the velodrome www.encinovelodrome.org

Happy 4th of July

2009-07-04T11:32:00.000-07:00

This 4th of July I'm in San Diego County spending some quality time with the family. Of course only AFTER I hit the swami's ride. My mom put good use to my bike and sent me down to the Pannikin for pick up some loose tea since she had no success finding parking. I could see why, the Pannikin is a hot spot for a Saturday morning caffine treat but being the 4th of July the line was to the street. All the crazies are heading to the beach as you can see some of them decided to give the local art work some flair. Everyone have a safe and happy 4th.

More about the Pannikin at http://pannikincoffeeandtea.com/

Xster

Look! Another Kitten

2009-07-04T11:25:00.001-07:00

I ran into Julie at the Swami's ride while in Encinitas this July 4th. She and her husband moved out her from Virginia Beach a month or so ago. They are still looking for the perfect beach house to live in. We had a great time at the ride. It her first time through the Elfin Forest.

500 meters of Mahyem hit VK at MBGP

2009-07-01T07:07:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, the "Jenns" rode toghether at the Manhattan Beach Grand Prix. Although not a NRC, the presitige of the race brought out a field of 60 women to the start line. Ted Ernst, founder of South Bay Wheelmen, gave us stern taking to at the staging area how "We" (women) need to bring out more racers or they will cut the women's event altogether. I was dissappointed in his statement, as I look around the women's field and see ladies who traveled from as far as Utah, Las Vegas and Australia to ride the 50 minute crit. I even noticed a few trackies who NEVER race crits, come out to ride with the best of us because of the prestige of the MBGP. Pro teams included, Vanderkitten, PROMAN, Jazz Apple, and Treads.

OK, off that soap box and on to a race review.

It was a very dynamic race with lot of mini attacks and attempted getways by La Grange, Helens and Treads. The pace was very undulating, being slow through the corners and fast in the straight aways. I found myself having to focus on minimizing my surges so to conserve enough energy to give Jenn Wilson the lead out she needed for the win.

At 3 laps to go Jazz Apple put on an impressive attack on the backside that had the entire peloton take notice and chase. By 2 laps to go it was groupo compact and time for the Jenns to go to work. It got pretty heated as women fought to get to the front on the climb then fall back on the back side. The yo-yo effect hurt my legs a bit as I too had to fight for a lap to get in a decent postion. At 1 lap to go, I still found myself not where I needed to be to lead Jenn out, finally on the backside on the last, I made my move with about 1k to go. I found a very narrow hole in the gutter on the outside as the peleton got wide, taking up the entire two lanes of the course. There was a sidewind on the backside of the course that had the girls want to take cover on the inside as I HAD to make the move in the wind to get to Jenn.

Our plan was working, I was coming up the outside to meet her. I saw her in the front center of the pack making her more to the outside to meet me for a powerful lead out through the last corner. It was poetry in motion until someone got twitchy. The next thing I saw as I was passing was a bike leaning, then all I heard were screams and carbon cracking. I knew Jenn was caught up in the wreck and it was up to me to finish strong for the team.

I jumped to the 12 girls that were in front of the crash sprinted to to move up as much as I could before the turn, only 1 postion, I was gassed and a bit in shock, that our planned changed in the last 400 meters of the race. I put all that I had left in the 300 meters for the finish for 10th. 1st was Corine Rivera (Proman) 2nd Manlinidi McClean (Jazz Apple) 3rd Catherine Fielder-Cook (Tommasini).

Jenn Wilson is feeling great. She has a bit of muscle soreness but no raod rash. Unfortuntaley the Stork was trashed. The derailer hanger and caliber were sheard off and her frame broke at the chain stay. The race did not turn out the way we wanted, but Jenn and I rode great and are ready to KILL it next week at the Iron Hill crit in PA.

Check out photos at: http://kwc.org/cycling/photos/manhattan-beach-grand-prix/manhattan-beach-grand-prix-09/

VK takes 3rd at San Pedro GP

2009-06-24T17:33:00.001-07:00

With over 100 feet if climbing per lap and a 600 meter sprint to the finish, the San Pedro Grand Prix is considered one of the toughest 1.1 mile criteriums in SoCal. Over 45 women arrived to the start line the breezy Sunday afternoon. With only two Vanderkitten riders (Jenn Reither and Jenn Wilson, A.K.A “The Jenn’s) we had our work cut out for us as we were surrounded by the teams of Helen’s, SDBC, and La Grange who all brought six riders.

Jenn and I decided it was a perfect breakaway course for us and spared no time attacking the field from the gun. With the help of Helens and a few smaller teams we were both able to get in a few breaks with small gaps, but nothing seemed to stick. After several attempts attacking in the head wind I decided to attack on the 100 foot climb. I rounded the 160 degree turn third in line and made a huge move and sprinted up the hill, settled in then motored. I heard a girl behind me say, we have a little gap. I clicked down another gear and continued to motor on the front and would assess the break later.

Within two laps our break of 8 gained 20 seconds on the field and it was time to assess the break. The break included, Pam Schuster (Helens) Jennifer Weinbrecht (B&L) Coryn Rivera (Pro Man) Kenda Ryan (MS Now) Ann Drackulich (La Grange) Laura Hines (SC Velo) and Heather Jackson (unattached) and Me, Jenn Reither (Vanderkitten). The break seemed a little large for my liking, so I heated it up the hill and into the off camber 170 degree turn 4, but had no luck dropping any riders. At 4 laps to go, I needed to start conserving and consider winning. After sitting in for 3 laps, I decided to take the final turn hot and on the inside. I ramped it up and made my move into the final corner but Kendal Ryan came under me for the inside and Jennifer Weinbrecht came over the top of me on the outside. This was still a good spot; I was 3^rd out of the turn. I stuck on Jennifer’s wheel for a moment but felt it was too slow and had to go for the line. There was still 500 meters to the finish and I knew it would be a long way but I was committed and had to go for it. At 100 meters out I was in 1^st, at 50 meters, I was 2^nd, at 25 meters, I was 3^rd and had to gut out the final 25 meters with everything I had to podium. Final Podium with 1^st Coryn Rivera (Proman) 2^nd Pam Schuster (Helens) 3^rd Jennifer Reither (Vanderkitten)

Back in the field Jenn Wilson took 2^nd in the field sprint behind Anna Lang (B&L) for 10^th.

Tulsa Toughin' it

2009-06-01T18:19:00.000-07:00

I'm finally home after a crazy night of traveling, a four hour nap followed by a 9 hour work day, able to relax and reflect on what was the Tulsa Tough. To my suprise Tulsa has a lot to offer, from quaint dress shops, elegant food and all all night WalMart to a spectacular waterfront full of activities. The organizers of the Tulsa Tough have made this 3 day race into a marquee event. The festival offers, public townie rides, a running event and even an art exhibit in additional to Pro to Cat 4 racing. The residence LOVE the crits running through their neighborhood and local downtown pubs, so much so that "they" created their own primes on the hills of Saturday and Sundays courses. On the last day there was a $450 pack prime for the Men's Pro to the rider who cross the KOM first. Cash was donated by the spectators, completely seperate from what the announcers were giving away at the finish line. The spectators on the hill would hold up a sign and yell out the prime. What more could you ask for but entertainment in your own front yard.

The racing for the Vanderkittens got off to a great start in Friday nights downtown crit, but quickly went glum about 20 mins into the 55 min race when Melissa,Virgina and Melodie went down with Me, Leigh and Jenn Wilson stuck in the pile up. Me, Jen, Leigh and Melodie were able to hop in an finish respectivley in the race, but Virginia and Melissa went to the hospital.

Virgina: Broken Colloarbon and 2 broken ribs, Melissa, 7 stiches in her arm. Melissa might post up some aftermath photos at http://www.melissasanborn.com/.

Saturday May 30 was another evening crit in downtown Tulsa. We got off to another solid start with me taking the reigns in lap one, wanting to feel out the course before letting another team pull. The first 4 laps we great, until someone went down at the finish line and it was a pack pile. I think 90 to 100% of every team went down in the wreck. I might have taken the hardest hit in this one, with a huge hip contusion and cut in my leg and scrapped my right arm. I also broke my pedal, shoe buckle, derailur and hanger. Somehow I managed to finish, all be it pack fodder on minimal shifting and 1/2 a leg. With a few of our girls in the top 20 we were not happy with the results, but releaved to have no one go to the hospital.

Sunday May 31: This is the day that makes Tough for Tulsa. the 3/4 mile course has a 12% half block climb, followed by a false flat, with a 2 block descent into a off camber 100 degree turn into the finishing stretch. The pace was lightening fast from the gun, with the women drilling it up the hill and into the false flat, IT WAS AWESOME. I love racing that hard! We dropped pack fodder on lap one. I was part of the fodder that got dropped with 15 to go but Melodie Metzger, Melissa Sanborn and Leigh Hopkins finished in the top 20 of only 25 finishers. They rode GREAT!

The Philly team is prime for the race this weekend. They've got all the crashes out of the way, they trained on a mini Manayunk and raced in the heat of summer. I expect good things for the VK's on Sunday June 6th. I will not be attending the Philly race the weekend, but will be reading the play by play.

Wish us Luck.

2009-06-01T18:17:00.000-07:00

Friday morning ride over the river and along the water front, Tulsa OK

Training weekend 5.16 5.17

2009-05-17T19:03:00.000-07:00

With all the racing I have been doing the last month, it was a nice change of pace to be home and hit the dirt for a ride. Once again this weekend I learned the importance of race recovery. It's not just a physical game, it's mental as well. My spirits were soaring after a 4.5 hour mountain bike ride on Saturday. I was lucky to ride with great friends who patiently waited for me at the top and bottom of every trail head. I'm a bit out of practice, on the mountain bike, since racing season started. It was a tough day of riding that put me straight into a nap session after the ride. Sunday I had madison training on the schedule. It was a change of pace for me to sleep in till 9a.m. and work on home stuff. On the way into Madison training my partner told me it was cancelled. My Coach advised me to ride how I feel. So I did..... 1300 feet of climbing in 13 miles in just over an hour. Attached is a photo just at the base of my first climb. A man who goes by Norm made this figurines out of trash and displays then on the roadside. Kind of weird but people love them. He has notes under some of the artwork thanking people for their kind words about his art. It was nice to stop and enjoy the view and the art. As fun as training is; life has a lot to offer too. Remember to enjoy the satisfaction of being home and cleaning out the junk drawer or diving into a DVD you haven't seen it awhile or just do something for you that you haven't in awhile.

NEW Track Bag!

2009-05-15T09:14:00.000-07:00

Check this out! HOT off the sewing machine. My friends at Totally Tubular bags hand crafted this awesome track bag for all my goodies. The bags exterior is made from vinyal and interior from cordura (apousltry fabric). If you look real close you'll see a horse and pilgrims playing. The wheel cogs snap in to place, my wrenchs all have their own slot in the middle of the bag and each chain ring has their own slot next to the zipper pocket, which holds my charts and chain ring bolts. The bag tri folds up with an elastic bag that snaps and holds it all together. Completing the bag the nylon yellow strap, long enough to fit over my helmet and comfortable to ride with. This is high quality craftsmanship you can only get from www.totallytubularbags.com. It is so cool and the only one of its kind.

Track bag all folded up!

2009-05-15T09:13:00.001-07:00

Friday 5.1 COFFEE!!!!

2009-05-01T07:58:00.000-07:00

Our team is committed to the excellence of a great cup of joe. So much so, that we ride around the local town in search of the finest cup available. We scored today finding the Little River Coffee Company nestled in the industrial area of Spartanburg next to the bike path. They roast their own there and offer self serve for a buck, check em out http://www.littleriverroasting.com/. Here is a morning photo of the "kittens" and Andy with Storck, getting their morning fix before their morning ride.

On a side note; weather seems to be rolling in. While we were having coffee the wind has picked up and the skies have turned gray. The forcast shows 70% chance of "THUNDERSTORMS" at 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. The Vanderkitten's welcome the rain, the more challange to the course the better we ride, although lighting may dampen the evening festivities. I hope it doesn't rain. The town of Spartenburg has planned the "Spring Fling" around the race. There's a carnival and booths being set up for an entire evening of entertainment. http://www.spartanburgspringfling.com/

Check back later.

Walterboro (Speedweek #4) & Spartenburg

2009-04-30T18:15:00.000-07:00

We have now come to the point when speedweek becomes a whirlwind. Tuesday morning we woke up in Beaufort S.C. went on a lovely ride along the "low country" arrived back at host housing, showered, changed, drove to Walterboro S.C. (about 40 miles) checked into the hotel, kitted up, rode to the race course and raced. After the race we rode back to hotel, ate dinner and went to bed. Thursday a.m. we rode to coffee, packed up and drove to Lexington to meet and greet our sponsor, the Hawley company. We had a tastey lunch with owner Steve Hawley, who has been in the family bike business since he was 6 years old, Derick and the rest of the Vanderkittens.

So much has happened in the last 36 hours, I'll give you the quick-quick.

Race in Walterboro: We raced like maniacs, covering and attacking. Liz and Mel again won primes giving props to our sponsors. The course was big and safe with 2 tight corners going into the finishing stretch. We coming together but got pushed out by the Tibco train in the last two corners. Brooke Miller (TIBCO) took another win, while Tina Pic (Colavita) and Joanne Kiesanowski (TIBCO) filled out the podium. Top VK finished were: Melissa Sanborne 13th, Laura Bowles 18th, Liz Hatch 22nd, Jennifer Reither 27th.

Hawley Visit in Colombia S.C.: The visit to Hawley this afternoon was fantastic. We got to meet all the staff, take a ton of pictures and give some input on sponsored products. They have a great facility and have just added on more space for the rapidly expanding company as they had the 5 largest grossing day yesterday April 29th. Yahooooo!!!!

Arrivial in Spartenburg S.C.: We arrived to Spartenburg late this afternoon, with just enough time to take a nap before hitting the town at 7:00. We ate at the local pizza joint, Mello Mushroom which was a pretty great place to eat just outside of the downtown area. They take pride in showing off artist work on their menus, calendars, T-Shirts and murels painted on the walls on the patio. Check em' out, their all over the SouthEast http://www.mellowmushroom.com/

Friday evening Crit in Spartenburg: Tomorrow night 5/1 we'll be racing the crit in the historic district downtown. Cross your fingers and wish us luck! I'll write tomorrow, where ever I might be laying my head to rest.

Photo is of Jen Wilson with a carbon fiber multitool from Storck. Our Sponosors ROCK! http://thehawleyblog.blogspot.com

Beaufort (Speedweek race #3) Day 6

2009-04-28T20:07:00.000-07:00

VK rocked the house in Beaufort South Carolina tonight. With a full squad including Hailey Bean, a regional rider who is joining us for the next three races, Team Vanderkitten put on a show. From the whistle we were on the front workin' the pack. I took the first 2 laps on the front covering aggressive moves from Team Type 1 and Colavita. Then is was Liz Hatch putting on the counter attack and winning a prime. Following Liz it was Laura Bowles, Jen Wilson and Melissa Sanborne covering move after move after move. 25 laps into a 50 lap race the pack had dwindled down to only 29 riders. You'd think the smaller pack would limit the attacks and counter attacks, but they just kept comin'. Most impressively from Kristen Lassaso who is riding unattached. Lassasso attacked and pulled back breaks for most rest of the race. Corey Seahaffer (Team Type 1) was riding strong tonight which was affirmed by the 7 primes she won. Corey was off the front a lot, with Colavita and Kristen Lassaso bringing her back. With 5 laps to go Corey put on another huge move gaining 5 seconds on the pack. With 3 laps to go Kelly Benjamin (Colavita) bridged up with success. 2 laps to go Kelly and Corey were now together working to put time on the pack. With 1 lap to go coming through the finish line the duo off the front only had 8 seconds on the pack. Laura Van Gilder (Mello Mushrooms) went full gas into the first turn to try and reel them in, with our Melissa on her wheel. The Vanderkittens, Melissa, Laura and Hailey were looking strong and were tasting the podium. Last turn is was Corey and Kelly with with only a 5 second gap and 200 meters to go. Kelly Benjamin lit it up coming across the line well in first place with Corey Seahaffer strolling in for 2nd. Melissa came out of the final turn with Laura Van Gilder and Tina Pic (Colavita) with her. It was an all out drag race to the finish with Melissa holding her own against two of the top sprinters in the nation. Melissa was completely cross eyed and was pimped at the line by both Tina and Laura to finish 5th.
As we may have not made the podium today, we had our own success as a team. We worked together very well and were there to sprint for a podium position. We are so close, all of us can taste a win.
Tomorrow we head out to Walterboro, South Carolina for another evening crit.
Stay tuned.

Roswell (SpeedWeek Race #2)

2009-04-27T10:39:00.001-07:00

Yesterday we raced in the Historic Roswell Critirium just outside of Atlanta. All the girls that raced Athens on Saturday night were ready to rock in yesterdays afternoon crit in front of the crowds of Roswell, Georgia. I wish I could give a better race report but the simple fact is, there was a break of 9 women that rolled of the front and we (Vanderkitten) weren't in it. It was not without trying. Laura Bowls attempted to bridge, Liz and Leigh put on some great attacks early in the race, Jen and Melissa put in the good effort to try to pull the break back without success. We all felt fit and fast but luck was not on our side when the break went. Our spirits are high, the past is in the behind, we are all looking forward to tomorrows race in Beaufort, South Carolina. Today, Monday April 27th we went on a team ride around Decatur, GA, ate, showered, finished bloggin' facebooking and wrapping it up as I type for a very long drive. Race results: Tina Pic (Colavita) Brooke Miller (Tibco) and Jen MacRae (Type 1).

Athens Twilight (Speedweek race #1)

2009-04-26T07:26:00.000-07:00

The Athens Twilight Criterium is all what "they" say it is; fast friendly and fun and this year did not disappoint. Record crowds lined the streets while racers zoomed around the 4 corner crit eager for the chance to covet the Twilight Crown. As a Twilight Virgin, I was in awe of the entire event. Spectators were lined 4, 5 and 6 deep in some areas. There was no way to walk around the entire outside of the course due the mass of people watching the race. Being in the race was the best seat in the house.

Word around the peloton was that this was the fastest Athens EVER!!! I agree with that consensus considering how long it took me to reach the front of the peloton. Team Vanderkitten was aggressive and active and several of us got mic time from the announcer which made our sponsors proud. As hard as all the ladies raced it ended up sprint finish of about 25 women with Brook Miller (TIBCO) Tina Pic (Colavita) and Jen MacRae (Type 1) lining the podium.

Race Details:

The race was fast and lively. There was a significant break off the front with Tibco and Team Type 1, but without Colavita and Team Vanderkitten the move, the ladies fought hard for several laps bringing it back. There were a 3 crashes that I know of, the first being a girl who slipped out in turn one about mid pack, I don't think she took too many riders with her. The 2nd crash was the result of some drunk guy jumping the barrier in the middle of the race and causing a few riders to go down. The 3rd was at three laps to go in turn three that took our our rider, Melissa Sanborne and a few others, and caused Jen Wilson to loose front position in the pack. Melissa is doing well, a few scraps and a bump on the head but she'll ride today.

For one of Vanderkitten first "team" races we raced well together and are SO close to a win we can all feel it. I know we'll have a win if not a podium by the end of the week.

Today Sunday 4/26 we are off to race in Roswell, Ga for a crit at 4:00 p.m.

Note: Our race bikes ROCK!! The women are loving the Storks. Check the bikes out and the Stock Vanderkitten Demo van at http://www.storckbicycle.com/usa/ and our new carbon clinchers held up well in on the bumpy downtown streets of Athens http://www.spinergy.com/

Speedweek Day 2

2009-04-25T08:11:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update for ya'll. We arrived safe and sound after a slight delay in the air and a fuel stop in Alabama. A huge storm was over the air tower in Georgia and lightening struck the tower and created an electrical fire. All planes were delayed to land including ours. After that hiccup we were able to get a good morning sleep (3:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.) before heading out on a quick team ride. We pedaled around a small lake in Decatur before relaxing for a cup of joe at a the Java Monkey. After that we got packed and headed to Athens fora meet and greet at The Hub bike shop. Today (Saturday 4/25) is race day. We just finished up a group ride with The Hub bike shop fans and now we are relaxing until the fun starts tonight.
Wish us luck

Easter Update

2009-04-09T09:10:00.000-07:00

Wow! Redlands has come and gone and spring has sprung. No more excuses, racing season is here. I can't belive it, 12 weeks of winter training and I'm back at it. It's been busy. After Redlands, I took a few days to recover and hit full gas by the weekend, hosting a training clinic for the Transcend womens triathlon team then buzzed over to Encino to race the 2nd series in the Bob Hansing Memorial series, where I won the points and tempo race, 2nd in the scratch, finishing 1st overall in the omnium. I'll be home training and racing locally till I leave for Athens GA on the 24th, for the Athens twilight then race all week for "Speedweek". I'm excited, I've never visited the south. The week of April 25th - May 2nd the Vanderkitten girls will be racing in the cities of: Athens 4/25, Roswell 4/26 , Beaufort 4/28, (Georgia) Walterboro 4/29, Spartenburg 5/1, (S. Carolina), Anniston 5/2 (Alabama) then back to Sandy Springs 5/3 (Georgia).

Traning has been solid since I recovered from Redlands. It amazes me how much that race can take out of you. There is never a moments rest in any of the stages of Redlands, it all LT all the time. Ina Tutenburg of High Road won the overall by a second over Amber Neben of Nurrenberger. Go Ina! She must have some big goals this year, she is more on fire than ususal.

Track training is steady. I am having fun Madison training with my partner Dena Easton. Not only are we both becoming stronger track riders we are becoming better madison partners.

Well... That's the quick-quick, while down south, I plan on bloggin'. Visit for photos & stories!

Packing for the Redlands Bicycle Classic

2009-03-25T18:55:00.000-07:00

I can't believe its here, not only the start of the season, but REDLANDS. It was just a few months ago I was shivering while training in the Santa Monicas; now spring is here, it's 70 + degrees and I'm heading out to the Redlands Bicycle Classic. I'm excited to get out and race. I've checked the weather and have decided to pack lite since mid 70's are predicted all weekend. Added bonus, no Oak Glen this year. For those of you not familiar with the "old" Redlands, Friday's stage would be a 70 mile road ride and the last 8 miles, up hill and about 3K of climbing. Ahhhh it was such a sufferfest. As I casually pack the car full of race equiptment I came across a little buddy and am sharing it here with you. If you recognize that red hour glass on the belly of the black spider and guessed black widow.... you're right. I'm sure the tarantluas are right around the corner. I'll make sure to get a photo of one of those when they start hangin' around the house. Wish me luck. I'll try to blog while I am racing.

Nuevo Zapatos

2009-03-20T18:58:00.001-07:00

Just taking my new Gaerne's out for a spin! They are pretty classy and will clean up well after some dirty crits.

Home Office

2009-03-18T18:51:00.001-07:00

I am posting tonight to share with you the view I enjoy from my home computer where I download my daily workout, write, and decompress. This view is my office window. As you can see by the environment, there's a lot going on. My hills remind me of Ireland, I have a young hawk who likes to perch and hunt in this tree. The weather is warming up and hummingbirds start playing in the window waiting their turn to enjoy the bird feeder on the patio. As many of you know I don't have cable or have any T.V. stations. I have a T.V. only to enjoy a movie snug in my bed with a bowl of popcorn, with no cell phone interuptions, no people yelling at the screen and a pause button available to grab a snack. I sit here tonight after great afternoon ride, happy to be employed, part of a great cycling team, donating my time to LOTS and other women cycling programs.

Enjoy life, ride more, smell the roses, do something for someone else everyday.

New Ride

2009-03-17T13:36:00.001-07:00

Saturday morning 3.14 my new ride arrived by personal messager Mark Zefelt, an Absolutist 0.9 by Stork. After a few minor adjustments I took her out on a 4 hour tour into Agoura Hills, Thousand Oaks, Moorpark and Simi Valley with my teammate Jen Wilson. My Stork made an excellent first impression. Descending down Potrero Road and nailing corners tight, she handled well. I like the overbuilt head tube, I feel the front end if solid and agressive. The handlebars by Profile Design were comfortable on the top and in the drops. With the SRAM force groupo, the brake/shift reach is desirable for feminine hands. The white spokes wheels by Spinergy finish the entire look of the bike. After a few more rides, I plan on posting a more complete bike review on my site, http://www.jennreither.com where I'll add more details, including the Ciamillo Zrio G-Ti brakes and the SDG (Speed Defeys Gravity) womens specific saddle.

Writing Goes Global

2009-03-06T20:35:00.000-08:00

It amazes me how a whirlwhind trip to Mallorca and a good whiskey can get you published! This past summer Giant invited me to Mallorca (Spain) to test ride their 2009 line. Yeah, the bikes were cool but Mallorca.... Wow. While I was riding I ran into photographer who needed me to re ride a path of street a few times so that he could get the "perfect" shot. When dinner time rolled around (after a nap and cocktail hour) I bumped into him struck up some great conversation and someone managed to sit next to each other at the dinner table. Thank goodness for me, an low key guy who was not determined to impress with bike banter and technical stuff. I learned he was the editor of Bicycling Australia and he learned I was a bit of a space cadet. We also talked about the fine dining but minimal poritions that were being served for a bunch of bike people. Needless to say the conversation was good as so was his wine and my whiskey. We exchanged emails and a few weeks later he asked if I would be interested in writing a "Where to Ride" article for his publication. Of course I accepted the offer and wrote about my favorite Malibu loop. Thanks a million Simon. Hope your readers enjoy it. For those interested it is the March/April issue subscribe or buy at www.bicyclingaustralia.com

Offically a Vanderkitten

2009-03-03T15:20:00.000-08:00

After a successful Tour of California the team and management of Vanderkitten offered me a position with the team for 2009..... Yahoo. It's gonna be a great year. I will blog all the exciting stuff for you to read. I'll do my best to include training rides, photos, and juicy details of pro racing. If you are interested in seeing video of the Tour of California crit visit http://www.deltavelo.com/. Click on Womens Tour of Califonia for a 7 minute video.
Many thanks to Damien Gonzalez who braved the rain to get some great footage. Check out the teams sponsor at http://www.vanderkitten.com/.