Juventus riders, and a few extra special guests, enjoyed a great time in the Los Angeles area!
Stefan competes in the Team Sprint
The gang of racers and race supporters enjoyed cheering our very own Stefan Ritter, as he represented Canada in the team sprint event, at the final World Cup prior to World Championships. After Stefan raced, he joined the gang in the stands - including Mom and Oma. They ensured the Canadian flags waved with pride every time a Canadian athlete took to the boards!
The action was fast, and thrilling, as the best racers in the world showed everyone how it’s done! Canada came away with several medal winning performances, and our racers came away with some special inspiration to motivate their own training.
The opportunity to train on the wonderful indoor 250 m track was another boost for our athletes. Under the critical eye of skillful, and highly organized coach Alex Ongaro, the group (from absolute beginner and brave soul Clive - to seasoned old timers Dave and Gail) tested their legs. They completed several intense intervals, competed in some fun races, and got some great feedback on how the winter's training has been working. The short answer to that is: fantastic!!
Dave used his SUV to transport all bikes to LA, a very compact bit of Tetris that he has mastered . . . and now for the reassembly.
Everyone nearly set up to go!
Executing Alex's workout in LA
Alex and Ross midweek prior to Para World Champs.
Set for coaching.
Alex’s friend Eugene was a huge help with timing and organization, and quickly became a friend to all. Michel and Peter got to test themselves with some speedy short jumps, Lindsay laid down a super satisfying 500 meter time that has everyone feeling great about her future prospects at Nationals; Zach, fresh off the Western Canadian Championships gained more valuable track experience, and Dave and Gail had a great face-off pursuit that left Gail feeling quite good about the year to come.
World Cup cheering section
Learning from the best.
The Canadian Para Team joined our group as they fine-tuned themselves for the World Championships on the weekend. The supportive atmosphere and wonderful community we had there made everyone feel at home and ready to compete! Clearly, things went quite well for Canada and Juventus as evidenced by Ross’ double World Championships!
When you are with an enthusiastic, and track savvy bunch - the cheering is contagious.
Gail and Dave road riding out and about Palo Verdes.
Some of the gang imagining Italy?
Gail and Lindsay enjoy the action at the World Cup, but are more excited for their own upcoming track time.
Watching the World Cup action . . .
Zac fresh from Western Track Challenge . . .
. . . and more great World Cup racing.
The group got in some warm weather road rides between track sessions. Wonderful!!
