The one where Juventus Track went to nationals . . .

Milton, Ontario's Mattamy National Cycling Centre has now experienced Track Nationals Juventus style:

• 3 Gold medals for 3 National Championships 

• 1 National Record

• 6 Silver medals

• 4 Bronze medals

• 5 very close fourth place finishes (podiums next year!)

But these great results were just part of the story . . .

We had 9 athletes competing: Elite level NextGens Evan Burtnik racing for Team Race Clean and Kinley Gibson racing for Trek Red Truck;  Meika Ellis in Elite Women, Michel Herszak in Elite Men, Gail Wozny and Lindsay Sommerset in Master Women, and Dan Nelson, Jeff Bakal, and Peter Toth in Master A, B, and C Men respectively.

There was more! We had a support team that began with Adam Todd organizing club wheels to ensure each rider rode the set needed (and more!) for a perfect race. In prudent fashion, Dave Embury had made the long trek to Milton in a van, safely delivering wheels, rollers, bikes and trainers for the team. Upon arrival, Dave secured Juventus lockers (Dave style), the perfect pen was staked - and Juventus set up for success. 

And then the racing began . . . and the team was in action . . .

• Jeff with his knowing track eye, complete pit knowledge, thoughtful coaching, calming influence, caustic comedy, and available advice.

• Dave with more track eye,  rider support, equipment help, and available advice.

• Stefan Ritter (currently training with Team Canada, but still a junior) with regular drop ins - even if it did mean he had to pay for admission (he didn't - but he definitely was close).

• Expert pinning, coffee runs, grocery runs, airport runs, and ALMOST manager-like  behaviour from Linda.

• Chairs to include our favourite fellows Cabbage, Scott, and Dylan.

• Michel's increasing enthusiasm as each race progressed. 

• And family stuff - cheers, tears, and so much fun!

Ivan Rupes was on hand to photograph the action in Milton. Here is a bit of what his camera caught. Please visit ivanrupes.com to purchase these and other photos.

Meika put in great efforts in match sprints, team sprint, the keiran and the 500TT. As a full time student in Ottawa, training with a long distance coach can be tough; Meika came ready to race, learn, and enjoy team fun Juventus style. 

Lindsay sets up for her 500 TT. She also raced the IP and tried out the scratch - not bad for her first time on a wooden track. Lindsay is looking forward to 2017!

Gail gave her all at nationals, racing the 500 TT, scratch, points, and her goal race - the IP. After a year's preparation with Alex at AVRA, her highlight came in the IP: she won the Master Women's National Championship, the championship jersey, and she broke the national record for her age group!

Jeff wore many hats in Milton. First, he, Dave E., and reps from the City of Edmonton met with kindred spirits from the Mattamy National Cycle Centre to discuss a variety of issues related to optimizing  velodrome facilities. Interspersed between meetings, Jeff donned his skinsuit and competed in a cornucopia of events in Master B - digging deep into legs that could almost cooperate long enough for the desired result.  Our leader always had his eye on what the team needed: advice, consoling, splits on the line, equipment help, or just a little humour to ease some stress.

Dan was a bundle of non stop energy at his first track nationals. He prepared well with Alex at AVRA, and put in solid performances in his Master A events. He was quick to pick up on the nuances of the 250 m indoor wooden track and added spice to his bunch races 

Peter is very comfortable on the track and used to the antics of Master C men. He competed well in all the bunch races, had a strong pursuit - and was always animating the track, the pit, and the podium.

Michel was our lead sprinter at elite track nationals. Michel now makes his home in Canada, but our Juventus German was fired up and ready to take any Canadian right to the line. Michel is never short when an all out effort is required - powering himself to silver medal performances in elite men. He has set his eye firmly on the top step of the podium come 2017.

Evan was racing for Team Race Clean at elite nationals and focussed on the team pursuit. The team won the national championship in excellent time and were rewarded with Canadian Championship jerseys. Evan also had a solid ride in the individual pursuit, an event held within the Omnium.

Kinley raced for her trade team Trek Red Truck at elite nationals. She was part of a composite team pursuit, and raced the Omnium. Her highlight came in the IP, where significant improvement was enough to win the national championship and go under the international standard. She raced a strong points race to finish second to Steph Roorda in the Omnium.

Of course, we missed some of our training partners here in Milton. Fortunately, mad drawing skills ensured they were part of our team picture. How lucky we were to nab Adam's namesake for our pic!

Here we include all the players: Stefan who is training in Milton, Dave who smoothed out each day - knowing just the right thing to do, Linda who likes to be helpful, and Scott, Adam, and Dylan - who will be here competing next year!

Huge weekend for Juventus!

This is an incredible weekend of racing for Juventus riders: 

• We have 9 elite/master cyclists off to Milton to compete in Track Nationals! WOW!

• We are hosting the Jim Horner Grand Prix of Cyclocross! another WOW!

• We have a competitor at UCI Cross Vegas!  again WOW!

• We have a competitor in Belgium readying for Jr. Road World Champs. de nuevo WOW!

Stories will be told . . . . . .

Junior Devaney Collier selected for Jr Road World Champs!

Juventus Junior Devaney Collier is busy putting in road miles these days. With a silver at Junior Road Nationals, she secured her selection to the team of 4 women who will compete in Doha, Qatar at the Junior Road World Championships in October. 

The junior women's team is full of familiar faces; all the women also competed in Aigle, Switzerland in July, at the Junior Track World Championships. Devaney will join with Maggie Coles-Lyster, Erin Attwell, and Laurie Jussaume to compete in the 4 loop, 74.5 km road race on October 14th. The course is considered to be flat and fast and should be a very good course for Devaney.

Maggie Coles-Lyster, Ali Vanyzendoorn, Erin Attwell, Laurie Jussaume, Devaney Collier

The junior women will go to Belgium on September 21st for a preparation camp, and from there fly directly to Qatar. Two of the riders, Erin Attwell, and Laurie Jussaume, will also compete in the 13.7 km Individual Time Trial on October 10th. Doha's predicted temperature for the second week of October is 36 C - which is definitely hot! Fortunately, the race is being held on Pearl Island just off the coast, and should benefit from the cooler Persian Gulf breezes.

Congratulations to Juventus member Devaney Collier on her Junior National team selection!

Juventus well represented at Edmonton Velothon

Bruce got things rolling, encouraging Juventus members to enter the first Edmonton Velothon. This was the opportunity to race on a fully supported closed course in Edmonton's downtown and river valley. Masters, elites, Cranx, LAMPsters, Juniors, and our President all ensured they were ready for the early Monday morning start at City Hall. 

Bruce Copeland leads a sizeable Juventus team.

It's all fun and games until the race begins: the course was a closed 20 km loop with 60, and 100 km options. For many, racing was aggressive from the start; the lead pack contained a talented selection of Juventus riders with Bruce in good control at the front.

The chit chatters were also on course - out to get in some miles, but primarily to enjoy the pleasure of the car free roads. Of course the Juventus young'uns on course were also a mixed bunch - some challenging in the lead group, and others working their way through a very long ride!

Dan Nelson and Clive Burke all smiles waiting for the Velothon to begin.

It is evident that well organized group rides pay dividends. Heard on course: "There are a lot of sketchy riders out here today, but if you can find a Juventus wheel to follow, you'll be fine."

A sample of the sea of blue Juventus jerseys at the Velothon.

Dave, Gail, and Jeff on bikes with levers and buttons - part of the team educating on the lifestyle benefits of the Indoor Velodrome

Juventus showed up as an immense sea of blue, with a light sprinkling of white VITAL kit - our track riders were helping to promote the health and lifestyle benefits of the Indoor Velodrome.

Promoting active lifestyles with the Indoor Velodrome - Dave Embury, Devaney Collier, Kinley Gibson, Jeff Bakal, Stefan Ritter at the Velothon.

A great day for racing and spectating! After the Velothon was done and dusted, it was time to watch the pros race the final Tour of Alberta Stage. 

Ross Wilson . . . awesome helmet - check!

Ross Wilson 2016 Rio Paralympics - photo credit Scott Grant

Juventus member Ross Wilson is currently in Rio for the 2016 Paralympic Games. He is busy polishing up for his upcoming track and road events. He will begin on Friday with the 3000 m Individual Pursuit qualifying round. Are you a bit curious about Ross? Check out the following video . . . 

Elka Strohschein thoughts on UCI Gran Fondo World Championships RR

What are the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships?

The UCI Gran Fondo World Series is a series of cycling races held globally, and sanctioned by the UCI.  There are 15 qualifier events held all over the world; within the qualifying events there are nine age categories; 19 – 34, 35 – 39, 40 – 44, 45 – 49, 50 – 54, 55 – 59, 60 – 64, 65 – 69 and 70 – 74 (Males only). The top 25% from each of these age categories are eligible for the 2016 Gran Fondo World Championships.

Cyclists participating in the GFWC compete in a Team Relay, a Time Trial and a Road Race.  The winner of each of these events is crowned the World Champion and awarded the coveted rainbow jersey.

Juventus master woman Elka Strohschein has spent the past few months working towards the 2016 Gran Fondo World Championships being held in Perth, Australia from September 1st to 4th. Qualified to represent Canada in the event, Elka is competing in all events including the ITT, Team Relay, and Road Race.

Elka raced the ITT on Thursday in the 45-49 year women's category against cyclists from Italy, USA, UK, South Africa, New Zealand, and Australia. The Individual Time Trial was held on Rottnest Island, approximately 14 kilometres off the coast of Western Australia. The 19.5 km lap took in the entire island making it a challenging course - the wind direction can change 4 times during the lap! There were no major climbs on the course; however, the undulating route's only flat sections were the first and last couple of kilometres. Elka was good for 13th place, with the winner averaging 39.8 km/h. 

Elka Strohschein ready for the first leg of the Team Relay.

Friday Elka competed in the Team Relay. This is more of a fun event and splits 21 kilometres over 8 laps between 4 riders doing 2 laps each.

Teams are formed by riders from the following age categories:
- One female rider any age
- One rider any age
- One rider age 40+
- One rider age 50+

Elka also competed in the Road Race on Sunday. It was a 105.8 km course with 5 climbs, and a destination finish. Here are her thoughts: 

"RR: 16th out of 41 in my age group. Time 3:22 for 105 km.  Really tough scary race. Some people crashed really badly, quite close to me. There was some of what I think is unfair sportsmanship going on as the men's group behind us overtook, and a bunch of women from each age group, (all the winners basically) grabbed on to the men's wheels and drafted off them for the rest of the race.  I didn't think that was allowed. I mentioned it to officials, but apparently it's OK. At first they changed it to disqualify the Italian lady who won in my age group. So momentarily I placed 15th. But she must have appealed it and was put back. It may be that it's too hard to figure out now, exactly who did it, after the fact. I did not look at race numbers. I just noticed the Italian because she was the only one from Italy. There were a ton of Aussies. 

Anyway, all that aside, God kept me safe and helped me make good decisions. I gave it my all. Was totally exhausted by the end. Lots of scary fast downhills with corners near the end of the race. So I dropped off the (near) front of the (real) pack (the ones not cheating), where I was for much of the race.  

Post race thoughts: Perhaps I should have hung back more, and saved more energy for the end? My main downfall, as always, was the very steep downhills with corners at the bottom. My threshold has improved significantly, however, as I took some of them at 45 km/hr!!! Some but not all. 😏 Happy with my effort. Glad to be done. Beautiful day here."

Team Time Trial irresistible to Juventus riders

Last Sunday Juventus returned to Miquelon Lake Provincial Park for the team edition of the time trial. The event was hosted by Juventus, and volunteers dressed in classic Alberta fashion - expectant of any and all forms of weather. Fortunately, the only challenge to comfort was a gusty, chill wind.

Mason with his mixed team of 3, and Dan, Bruce, Peter, and George. Podium in Open Men's TTT

Alex, Matt, and Chris win the CAT 4-5 TTT (missing TTT team mate Luke)

Juventus was represented on 5 teams:

• Our U17 boys rode in the Cat 4-5 group and used the time trial skills they have been practicing to easily win the category.

• The track sprinters once again forced themselves into TT position for longer than a minute, and put in a blistering effort to lead in the half of the race with the wind. 

• Two teams of Juventus Masters men, who honed team skills at the Crankmasters' TTT, again delivered efforts that effectively cooked each team at just the right rate. The team of Bruce, George, Peter and Dan finished the 30 km race on the podium in 3rd, while Lorne, Petar, Mike and Todd were not too far behind in 6th.

• Mason joined a mixed pro team that totalled the minimum three riders. He had a tough and gruelling ride, but the team crossed the line together - only a couple of minutes out of first place.

The TTT had skilled Juventus holders for the start.

U17 Juventus boys get rolling

Three needed to finish - Matt has already buried himself and follows . .

 . . . and here is Matt finishing a solid team ride

We thank our wonderful team of Juventus volunteers who consistently kept the smiles happening all weekend. And, of course, a special thank you to Bruce Copeland; he effectively organized the entire race weekend - and ensured all of the little things, and all of the big things were taken care of! Somehow, Bruce not only managed to put together this event, but also competed successfully - on both days!

 

Clive Burke 3 for 3 and tops Podium!

The Americas' Masters Games is a 9 day sporting event open to competitors from around the world who meet the minimum age requirement of 30 years. The event is designed to complement the World Masters Games, and create a regular opportunity for Masters athletes to compete in the Americas region. The 2016 event is being held in Vancouver from August 26th to September 4th.

Clive Burke wins gold in the individual Time Trial

And now for the REAL news . . . Juventus member Clive Burke - always up for the challenge of international competition - has podiumed in all three cycling events! In Clive's words, "The cycling gods were smiling on me!"

The ITT was an out and back 10 km along the smooth and fast Marine Drive, near Spanish Banks Beach. The climb within gave the riders a real test, and Clive powered to the win by a scant 3 seconds. 

SW Marine Drive, on the other side of the UBC campus, provided the setting for the 10.6 km circuit used for the 6 lap road race. The course provided the challenge of yet more climbing, and again Clive made the podium in a same time finish for Bronze.

The Hill Climb was raced on Cypress Mountain and featured 800 m of elevation gain over a 10 km course. In this event, which maintained an average 6% grade, organizers had to look at the photo finish to place the podium - Juventus showed well again - and Clive took silver in this contest! 

Another podium in the Road Race for Clive!

A photo finish nets Clive silver in the Hill Climb.

Congratulations to Clive for representing Juventus in outstanding fashion at the inaugural Americas Masters Games!

 

Successful and blustery ITT at Miquelon

Miquelon Lake Provincial Park provided the outdoor shelter necessary for staging this year's Provincial ITT Championships and Team Time Trial race. The event is hosted by Juventus, and thanks to Bruce and his team of volunteers, the combination of rain, wind, sun and chill was just part of the fun.

The ITT was on Saturday, and Juventus had cyclists competing in a variety of categories. 

Juventus U17 Boys dominated their 15 km ride with the complete podium of Alex, Chris, and Matt. The male and female U15 podiums were won by Juventus Mikael, and Annie respectively. Racing a time trial well takes practice, and Juventus youth are smart to race at every opportunity.

Gail Wozny racing Open Women's ITT - photo credit Bill Quinney

In the Cat 5 30 km race, Lorne put in a solid ride for first place, while Sherman (thanks in part to a very kind commissaire) nailed third. Sherman is rumoured to have a nickname - it seems to be well earned . . .

Bruce, who is the ultimate guru of the individual time trial, obliterated the 30 km Master C Men's category . . . and then without missing a step, went back to his role of race organizer! 

4th place is always a tough spot . . . especially when just a few seconds over 30 kilometres is all that separates you from the podium. Gail, and Todd gave their best, in Open Women, and Master C Men, but were left wondering about those few seconds . . . and where they were lost.  

Meanwhile, after all the effort to prepare for his race, Jack was stopped short, early on, with a pulled wheel that could not be set right. It was a very frustrating situation, but our Jack is always one to see the glass even more than half full. He is already plotting strategy for the EICC!

Summer Update from Kinley Gibson

For the past few days I’ve been reflecting on the 2016 road season. Year by year, and the more I race, the more I learn the importance of staying focused through the highs ­. . . and finding patience through the lows.

The Redlands Stage Race - finishing all the stages became a worthy goal.

 

 

The beginning of the season was definitely rough, as the start of road racing tends to be for me. San Dimas and Redlands are two of the toughest races I face in the year – the hills are brutal, the field is intense, and I tend to feel jittery and nervous in the pack. However, instead of panicking at my results, I’ve learned to step back, enjoy the feeling of pushing myself, and trust that as the season progresses, my legs and results will come around.

It was gratifying when both improved throughout middle and late season racing. Nationals went incredibly well for me this year, culminating in a criterium win that I certainly could not have predicted. In this instance, I took a couple of days to enjoy the win, and then got back to work. There was still plenty of racing ahead, and it was important that I stay focused to ensure I could be the best possible teammate for Trek Red Truck.

 The day of the 2016 Canadian Road National Championship race was hot and humid, with the course fairly flat and technical.

Superweek, a series of races I like to call, “the most wonderful time of the year” followed closely after Nationals. The level of fun at these races is off the charts, with big crowds, lots of money on the line, a sizeable women’s field, and a Vancouver - based team that gets crazy cheers. One thing I love about TRT is that we’re aggressive – we try to be in every move and we continually initiate attacks. We brought that style to every Superweek race, and really showed it off at the highlight of the week Gastown Grand Prix.

Denise Ramsden, Kinley Gibson, Sara Bergen, Suzanne Hamilton, Gillian Ellsay - united in an aggressive performance and win at the 2016 Criterium Challenge at Road Nationals.

Trek Red Truck created this very cool Canadian Criterium Champion's jersey for me.

We have a diverse team and everyone has different strengths; we’re excellent at using those strengths to our best advantage. Sara can sprint, Leah can climb, Denise, Gil, and I can spend laps off the front, and best of all, there isn't any selfishness or egos. We go into every race ready to bury ourselves for our teammates, to give support to each other throughout the race, and to find the positives of the day . . . regardless of the outcome.

Racing in BC Superweek is so much fun.

The season concluded with a short track camp in Milton, followed by a stretch of racing in Belgium. After Superweek I was fatigued, so facing another ten races was certainly daunting.

It's August, and Kermesse season in Belgium

Racing got off to a rough start in Europe – girls are far more aggressive and much better technically. Having raced over there before, I remembered that it took time to adjust to the racing style. This time, instead of getting frustrated, I was able to be patient and let myself adjust. “Follow the wheel” and “move up” became my mantra as the races went on. I slowly improved at moving up through the pack, powering over cobbles, and taking faster and faster corners.

One bizarre (and infuriating) thing about racing in Belgium? The screaming. Yup, every touch of the brakes, every little bump, and some Belgian girl will start screaming her head off. Actually, my best result came in a field of close to 100 girls, when I got so tired of listening to girls screaming that I attacked off the front, and stayed away until the finish, ending up 6th. I think annoyance might be my most powerful motivator.

An attack that sticks for a long, long time - and all to avoid the screams of the pack

I’m now home for a little bit before the track season kicks off in September. With Rio coming to a close, I’m looking forward to the opportunity to race Pan Am Championships, and really start to develop myself on the track. There’s been plenty of learning this season, and I know there’s plenty more to come; I’m looking forward to the challenge! 

Stefan Ritter breaks 17 year old Glenmore Velodrome record at Trackfest!

Stefan Ritter is in Calgary representing Juventus Cycling Club as well as the Argyll Velodrome Racing Academy for this year's edition of Trackfest.

His first order of business was to break Doug Baron's 200 m record of 10.59 - set in 1999, by scorching over the pavement and lowering the time to 10.38!

Congratulations Stefan! 

Juventus 1 Masters top the Crankmasters' TTT podium + what TMZ dug up on This is Gonna Hurt!

Juventus 1 - George Irwin, Bruce Copeland, Dan Nelson, Peter Toth - Crankmaster TTT 1st place

 

Our Juventus Masters are certainly a diverse bunch, yet there is a unifying bond when it comes to Team Time Trials. Our masters seem to thrive on the training required for a successful TTT outing. The Crankmaster TTT on August 14th provided an opportunity for Juventus to test the cohesive watts of two teams:

• Juventus 1 - Bruce Copeland, George Irwin, Dan Nelson, and Peter Toth

• This is Gonna Hurt - Lorne Dmitruk, Sherman Cutknife, Clive Burke, and Velo transplant Ed Heacock

The course was a rolling 32 km, out and back, and included a light headwind on the way out.  Juventus 1 rode really smoothly, trying to catch This is Gonna Hurt 5 minutes ahead. Unfortunately we do not have pictures of This is Gonna Hurt, apparently due to concerns about their combined good looks. 

Juventus 1 rode well, and without issue, until about 8 km from the finish. It was on a fairly sharp hill that Dan seemed to have had enough. Up until that point, Hollywood's ride had been smooth and strong. The three remaining Juventus 1 riders forged on, wishing for 55 tooth chainrings instead of the paltry 52s they pedalled. Memories of junior gears haunted the team.

Meanwhile, This is Gonna Hurt's combined age of 227 years provided the wisdom to evaluate the team's special warm up techniques and pre race strategies: 

• Sherm probably drove 1000 km getting to and from family and race events, but did arrive with enough time for a warm up.

• Ed rode from Edmonton for his warm up.

• Clive DID NOT lock his keys in the car and DID come to the correct venue on the first try.

• Lorne was given a warning, as commissaires noted a mid section exceeding the 3:1 regulation.

 

After a solid effort, the team of three Juventus 1 hit the finish strong with Dan right behind. They were pleased with their final time of just over 43 minutes, but confident they can roll faster at the Miquelon Lake Team Time Trial on Sunday August 28th!  This is Gonna Hurt finished in 48:52 and remain convinced "we were robbed"! They will not let Bruce et all off so easy at Miquelon.

Thanks to Bruce and Lorne for providing narrative to both of these excellent results.
 

2016 LAMP Cup highlights new skills!

The weather on Sunday afternoon was perfect for racing at this year's LAMP Cup. Edmonton Research Park was the scene for the crit, the Argyll Velodrome hosted the track events, and the Argyll Ravine provided the challenge for cross-country mountain bike skills. Check out the pictures by Lori-Ann Muenzer, and others on our Photo Gallery Page. 

LAMP Director Bill Burtnik gives riders final instructions before the Edmonton Research Park Crit.

LAMP has a dedicated group of coaches and parent assistants; coaches ensure quality instruction, a safe environment, and fun for our LAMP cyclists. Pictured are a few of our enthusiastic team.

And the race is on!

The Edmonton Research Park 2016 LAMP Crit - photo credit Lori-Ann Muenzer

Working together

Strung out and following the attack

Argyll Velodrome hosted the Flying Lap, Scratch, and TT portion of the LAMP Cup Omnium.

Bunch race skills

Conserving energy in the Scratch Race

On the way to the cross country mountain bike course

Argyll Ravine course challenges LAMP Cup racer's cross country mtn bike skills - photo credit Lori-Ann Muenzer

LAMP namesake, Lori-Ann Muenzer was everywhere . . . photographing the action, cheering encouragement, and finally offering, to all our LAMP riders, some very inspirational words about pursuing dreams and persistence. She also brought along her GOLD Medal from the 2004 Athen's Olympics, Canada's first ever cycling gold medal, and LAMP riders got to touch, and learn a bit about all it represents.

LAMP riders gather for refreshments, awards, and motivational words from Lori-Ann Muenzer about pursuing dreams and persistence. 

LAMP Graduates were given the chance to see & touch Lori-Ann Muenzer's 2004 Olympic Gold Medal.

This year's (2016) LAMP Cup was awarded to Miles Sowak.  Miles had a great day with his TT, Crit, Flying Lap, Scratch, and Cross Country Mtn results giving him the overall OMNIUM!

Lori-Ann Muenzer is on hand to present the LAMP Cup: Bill Burtnik notes past winners, and highlights their continued success.

Miles Sowak, winner of the 2016 LAMP Cup! Devaney Collier and Stefan Ritter also celebrated the success of LAMP graduates.

TL! celebrates success & offers best wishes!

Thursday night was warm, dry - and perfect for the good turnout at Track League!  The A, B, and C groups were challenged with Win & Outs, Keirins, Team Sprints, Japanese Tempos, and the usual 5 km and 10 miler. Everyone enjoyed a great evening full of tactics, speed, and fun racing.

Before racing started, Juventus member, and recent Junior World Kilo Champion, Stefan Ritter was presented with a specially produced Juventus World Champion Parentini jersey. Looking sharp, Stefan gave his best and raced a variety of challengers in A group. 

Stefan Ritter in new Juventus World Championship jersey. 

Stefan and Jeff Bakal - a guy who knows a thing or two about developing elite cyclists. 

Meanwhile, spectators were top shelf as well. Juventus member and ABA commissaire Meredith Plant was out for one last TL! visit, before heading off to Aberdeen, Scotland to study Law. 

Club president Gail Wozny toasts Meredith Plant, wishing her the best on her Scotland Law studies adventure.

Meredith and dad John Plant enjoy the celebration ... John's shoulder and elbow (and broken bones within) take a rest from his Bowness crash induced sling. 

To wish Meredith well, celebrate Stefan's success, celebrate Devaney Collier's Junior World's Scratch Race silver medal performance, and generally have a wonderful time, everyone celebrated with a champagne, or champagne surrogate, toast . . .  A very fine bit of fun.

Miquelon Lake ITT & TTT registration is open!

We have all the details accessible here.

Sprockids, Cranx, & LAMP Fall Program registration is open!

Get ready for 5 weeks of mountain biking adventure!

• Saturday mornings  9:30 AM till noon

• September 10th - October 8th

• You must be 8 years of age by December 31, 2016 to register.

Click here to sign up

THE DETAILS

•  DATES: Saturdays, 9:30 AM to Noon, Sept 10th through Oct 8th 
• AGE REQUIREMENTS:  Sprockids/Cranx/LAMP kids must be between 8 and 14 as at December 31, 2016.

• FRIEND REQUESTS: We always honour friend requests, so your child will be riding with friends.

• REGISTRATION LINK: As with last year, you can register multiple riders from the same family on a single checkout.

• ABILITY: we will be creating a number of groups based on riding ability (after friend requests have been honoured), so your child will be riding with kids of similar ability.
• EQUIPMENT: your child must have a multi-speed mountain bike and a certified helmet.  Also recommended are bicycling gloves and a backpack with water, snack, and a cold/wet weather jacket.
• BICYCLE: Please ensure that your child's bicycle is tuned and ready to ride.  A multi-speed bicycle with working brakes and gears is required at a minimum (your child must have the physical ability to change the gears and work both the front & rear brakes

PARENT ASSISTANTS

We are looking for Parent Assistants to ride with the kids again this fall.  As always we will need to have Parent Assistants insured by the Alberta Bicycle Association.  Please contact me if you are interested in riding with us this year.

We are looking forward to seeing you and your Cranx, LAMP or Sprockid this fall.

Stefan Ritter - World class sprinter

Juventus Cycling Club knows a thing or two about developing young cyclists. Stefan Ritter is the latest example: a LAMP graduate, Stefan progressed to ride with Tracy's Juniors, continuing his road, mountain bike and cyclocross education. He joined in Jeff's track training, riding rollers in the winter, and Edmonton's outdoor 333 m Argyll Velodrome on warmer days. He regularly raced Thursday night Track League(!) to develop his track savvy. 

LAMP - (the Lori-Ann Muenzer Program)

Argyll Velodrome Track League(!)

LAMP - C2 coached by Gail Wozny

It was obvious early on that Stefan was born to be a sprinter (he chose his parents well). A couple of years ago, Argyll Velodrome Racing Academy (AVRA) coach Cam Jennings tested Stefan to see what sort of power he could generate. The results got the attention of national sprint coach Erin Hartwell . . . "we need to keep an eye on this kid!"  But Stefan was still 'just a kid' . . . and so he continued with a variety of cycling disciplines, doing well enough to compete in the Junior World Cyclocross Championships in February 2015.

Later that year, Stefan qualified as Canada's top junior sprinter for the 2015 Junior World Track Cycling Championships in Astana, Kazakhstan. He rode a respectable 200 m, yet quickly realized that there was much to practice and experience if he was to become a truly great sprinter. He continued training in Edmonton, guided long distance by Erin Hartwell. 

Alex Ongaro holds Stefan for start practice - Argyll Velodrome

Meanwhile, Cam Jennings of AVRA had been appointed as the Canadian Women's NextGen coach and had moved to Milton. Fortunately, after a careful talent search, AVRA was able to hire Olympian Alex Ongaro as its new head coach.

The timing was perfect. Alex and Stefan started working together at the start of 2016. Between weight room sessions at the Juventus clubhouse, and work on the track, trust developed and a bond formed. Alex Ongaro, 1984 Canadian Olympic Sprinter, had an athlete ready to absorb and practice strategy - an athlete committed to taking on the best in the world.

It was great news when Alex was named to coach the sprinters of the Junior National Team. He would be on hand to mentor and coach Stefan in Aigle, Switzerland at the 2016 Junior World Track Cycling Championship.

It became apparent to Alex that Stefan's engine and power suited the 1 kilometre (Kilo) time trial. Coach and athlete continued to work on skills and fitness necessary for the 200 m, Match Sprint, and Keirin, but focus was put on the Kilo. Rounding out Stefan's training was an emphasis on good nutrition, maintaining regular sleep cycles, and oh yes . . . finishing high school. Stefan is an honour's student, fluent in German, who plays trombone in his high school band. Diplomas were written, graduation celebrated and the intense month of June was complete. 

The Canadian Junior National Team met in Milton, Ontario at the Mattamy Velodrome for a final tune up before heading to Switzerland. After a couple of weeks of hard work, Stefan and Alex were ready to see how the past months of training would pay off. The velodrome of the UCI training centre would provide an additional challenge, as it was 200 m rather than the traditional 250 m.

Alex and Stefan discuss best lines on the UCI 200 m track in Aigle, Switzerland

Stefan's first event was the Keirin and he won his qualification easily. It was in round 3 that he would turn heads: after getting boxed in at the back, he slowed to extradite himself from his poor position, then accelerated to come up and over the top, passing the entire heat to win in a stunning blast of speed.

" . . . and then go to the front and stay there until the finish line! . . . " 

Now the young Canadian was marked. Stefan would go on to dominate the final, but end up 4th in a photo finish. Time to regroup and refocus for the next day's event.

Alex throws Stefan into the Keirin

Stefan gets the bike in this round

Dominating the round

The Kilo is an event just long enough to send an athlete into an anaerobic state. It is a one shot, individual, timed bit of torture. A calm and steady influence, Alex provided words of encouragement as Stefan warmed up.  Stefan was staged early in the line up, and was ready.

Stefan's Keirin performance got the attention of the media. Now they are interested in what his Kilo might look like.

The 5 second beeped countdown, and then Stefan burst from the starting gate with phenomenal power. Riding a clean line, he delivered an exceptionally solid ride of strength and fitness, finishing in 1.01:673 - only 0.3 off the current Junior men's world record.

Stefan's start is textbook and explosive. He will win the Kilo  just 0.3 off the world record in 1:01.673

One by one, fellow competitors took their turn on the track, but Stefan's time continued to hold against the best the world had to offer. Stefan Ritter becomes the 2016 Junior Men's Kilo World Champion! - with a rainbow jersey, a gold medal, the Canadian national anthem echoing thoughout the track centre, and Canada's flag rising above the rest. The win is Canada's first ever Junior World Championship!

 2016 Junior Men World Track Cycling Championship Kilo podium (L-R) Bradly Knipe - New Zealand, Stefan Ritter - Canada, Junggyu Na - Korea

The celebration with coaches, teammates, family, and well wishers was all high fives and hugs, filled with sincere excitement. The jubilation was eventually curtailed  . . . as there was still one more event on the sprinter's race card.

Stefan signs rainbow jerseys, does interviews, and accepts congratulations graciously.

Sharing the victory with his coach - Stefan and Alex

Stefan arrived at the track the next morning in a very happy, and enthusiastic mood. He went through his race routine and put down the second fastest 200 m time, clocking a 10:245. It was time to combine tactics with speed. Stefan easily dominated the 1/16 and 1/8 sprint finals.

Accelerating to a 10.245 flying 200

Against Korea's rider, it would take until the decider for Stefan to win the 1/4 final.

Stefan rides the outside line to win this match

Each ride takes its toll on the sprinter and each match requires a focus of energy and concentration. Thus with each ride, Alex provided support; Stefan cooled down and warmed up,  prepared to give his best. The semi final was a drag race with Australia's Connor Rowley: Stefan raced 2 laps at top speed on the outside as the two vied for the lead, but Rowley prevailed. Stefan was into the Bronze medal final.

Australia's Connor Rowley bests Stefan. Alex will have Stefan ready for the Bronze medal match.

Each sprinter had raced multiple times and both were taxed. Stefan was successful in his first match against the rider from Poland. That left just one more win to access the podium. Alex knew the Polish rider, as first starter, would head down track. In a calculated fashion, he waited and with a massive heave, threw Stefan into action. Stefan delivered one last acceleration and held on to win the bronze medal.

Alex's throw in is timed and strategic.

Stefan takes the Bronze!

All three junior men on the Match Sprint podium with Stefan are World Champions: Australia's Connor Rowley in the Keirin, Stefan in the Kilo, and New Zealand's Bradly Knipe in the Match Sprint. That is pretty fine company to keep. 

Junior World Champions - Connor Rowley AUS - Keirin, Bradly Knipe NZ - Match Sprint, Stefan Ritter  CAN - Kilo

Congratulations on your World Championship, bronze medal, and performance Stefan! Well done.

Here is an interview Stefan did with CTV discussing future plans (you have to endure an ad first - sorry)

A seamstress of sorts with champion Stefan Ritter, who wears his repaired kit with confidence.

Welcome to Paul Wyminga - our new Sprockids Director!

Please welcome Paul Wyminga to our Juventus youth cycling community!

Paul will be taking the helm of the Sprockids program as of July 2016. His first task will be to organize the Fall session for Sprockids/Cranx/LAMP kids.

Paul Wyminga and Sprockids group

Many of you will know Paul well.  He has been a longtime Sprockids coach, leading groups in both our Spring and Fall programs since 2012.   He is an active and competitive mountain biker – he has racing almost all of the regional mountain bike events, the 24 Hours of Adrenalin, and this year the 7-day BC Bike Race.  A big plus . . . he enjoys racing cyclocross in the fall.    His daughter Annie is a long-time Juventus cyclist, completing both the Sprockids and LAMP programs, and this year raced to a silver medal in the Provincial Track Championships. 

Our youth programming has grown to the point where we need to bring on board exceptional talent like Paul to keep the program vital, valuable, and exciting.   Lindsay Dodd, who has shepherded our Sprockids program so successfully, will continue in his role as Director of the Cranx program for the 2017 season, and continue to assist the other youth cycling Directors: Paul Wyminga with Sprockids, Bill Burtnik with the LAMP program, Alex Stieda with our LAMP+ program, and Ken Germain with our Junior program.  

Thanks to all of the families that continue to support the Juventus Cycling Club youth programs.  We couldn’t deliver these exceptional programs without your assistance.  

Devaney Collier collects silver in Aigle!

Juventus junior Devaney Collier was one of five Canadian girls recently competing at the 2016 Junior World Track Cycling Championships in Aigle, Switzerland. Devaney was part of a 4th place (and Canadian record) performance in Junior Women's Team Pursuit (TP), as well as a silver medalist in the Scratch Race.

The girls team had the 4th best time in TP qualification heats. In Round 1 they raced in Canadian record time, but were bested by the World Record holding and eventual Junior World Champion Italians. They were slotted against France the in the Bronze medal final, and caught with 2 laps to go, finishing in 4th.

In the Scratch Race, with 5 laps left, Devaney launched an explosive attack, attempting to catch the GB rider who had been off the front for much of the race. The pack was unable to match Devaney's effort and she finished with a strong silver.

Congratulations to Devaney Collier on these excellent performances!

Alex Steida to be inducted into Hall of Fame!

Juventus Cycling Club honourary lifetime member and current LAMP coach Alex Steida will be recognized for his exceptional contribution to cycling. Alex will be inducted into the Canadian Cycling Hall of Fame, on October 2nd 2016, in conjunction with the Canadian Track Cycling Championships and Milton International Challenge.

In order to initiate the Canadian Cycling Hall of Fame, Cycling Canada formed a Working Group to develop the Hall of Fame concept and process, and bring it to fruition.

The Working Group developed a curated list of 21 cycling alumni to be considered for the Hall of Fame class of 2016. The votes, both from the Working Group and the public were cast, and six were chosen for the honour – four in the Athlete Category, one in the Early Era Category and one in the Builder Category.

Alex will join LAMP namesake and Juventus honourary lifetime member Lori-Ann Muenzer (inducted in 2015) in the Canadian Cycling Hall of Fame.

Alex Steida with U17 podium winners in the inaugural 2016 Alex Steida Classic.

Congratulations to Alex Steida on this exceptional recognition and honour!