Masters sessions lightening up . . . as workloads increase?!

Yes, it does make sense. All through the cold, short, and dark days of the long, LONG winter . . . our dedicated Masters have diligently ridden trainers, rollers, and the CT device of excitement.

This sage group remains keen and committed, as Bruce puts them through yet another Tuesday night grind . . . and as you can see, a hint of daylight in the background means outdoor riding is not too far away!  

Wow, looks like one of the group is already off his bike. Better change that sweaty T for a sharp jersey.

 

Lovely times in La La Land -

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!!

Some great meals and sunny, scenic road rides rounded out the week to remember. Plans are already coming together for next year!

2 World Championship Jerseys for Ross Wilson!

Not like a lamb, and not like a lion . . . March came in like gold for Juventus member Ross Wilson. Ross competed at the 2017 Para World Track Cycling Championships, in Los Angeles March 3-5, and is now the reigning Para World Track Cycling Champion in both the 1 km TT, and the Individual Pursuit!!  To top off the 3 day event, Ross executed great team work with fellow Canadian Tristan Chernove - for 2 top ten performances in the Scratch Race.

Ross's shoes caught in action - the diabolical blur of dazzling brilliance!

Ross Wilson signing his first (but not only) championship jersey of the 2017 Para World Track Cycling Championships.

Ross began competition with the 1 km TT. He felt that he executed his ride perfectly, riding to a 0.5 second PB - outstanding, especially as the Los Angeles track is not known to be particularly fast.  Ross credited the work he has done with cycling coach Cameron Jennings, and strength coach Dean Somerset. 

If you train regularly with Juventus Track, you will also know the dedication, and effort Ross exhibits (much pooling of sweat, the best pooling of sweat).  It is satisfying to see hard work rewarded.

Canadians Tristan Chernove and Ross Wilson with C2, and C1 World Championship Jerseys . . . and Gold!

Ross donned and signed his first World Championship jersey, enjoyed the moment, but soon had to begin preparations for Day 2 and the Individual Pursuit. This event would (hopefully) require 2 rides, a qualifier and a final. Ross again delivered a superior performance, and qualified in first place. Notably, Ross's start looked smoother - almost certainly due to the new Butterdome Starting Facility engaged by track director Jeff Bakal. 

In the final for Gold, Ross opted to attack his competitor with an all out effort.  He was able to catch the American, and decisively win his second World Championship. 

 

Ross Wilson - double gold!

It is a beautiful sight to see . . . the Canadian Maple Leaf rising high, while our national anthem plays. 

Naturally, it is an overwhelming feeling to perform so well, and be rewarded. You can imagine how extra special it was, for Ross to have a cohort of Juventus fans in the stands to cheer him on. Special horns included!

Congratulations to 2017 World Champion Ross Wilson - a wonderful representative of Canada and Juventus!

Tristan and Ross battling it out, Day 3,  in the scratch race. Result - 2 top ten finishes!

The efforts and expertise of Canadian team specialists ensure an athlete's optimum performance.

Testing the legs at Burnaby!

Recently, a handful of Juventus youngsters (who, especially this winter, were consistently dedicated to improving spin, and increasing power) ventured to the Vancouver area.  They were after that other component in a competitive track cyclist's toolbox - race experience!  Burnaby's notoriously exciting 200 m indoor velodrome was the perfect venue, and the Western Track Challenge the perfect event.

The clone of the Eastern Track Challenge (held a week earlier), aimed to provide a caliber of racing similar to that found at the upcoming Junior National Track Championships.  But it was much more for Mat, Chris, Zac, Annie, and Lukas.  This was an opportunity to ride indoors on a wooden track for the very first time!

Mat, Chris, and Lukas representing Team Alberta and Juventus at the Western Track Challenge.

The banking and co-efficient of friction on the Argyll Velodrome does a poor job of preparing a rider for the necessary speed, and quick response required for the tight action of Burnaby.  Seriously - have you every seen anyone slide off the track in TL!? - in a neutral lap? even in C?  

Annie said, "It was for sure scary at first, but once you were going, it was fun!"  Mat noted, "The corners on the wood track were sharper than what I was used to, which made the turn feel faster while on the bike. I was surprised at how hard it was to stay on the black line, with the sharp corners pulling you up the track."

So . . . there were a few butterflies, but the group quickly got down to business. A couple of laps at the bottom and up they went, . . . smooth, . . . fast, . . . FUN!!  

Juventus U17s mixing it up in bunch races.

Mat launches for his IP

Juventus U15s Lukas, and Annie, along with U17s Mat, and Chris, aimed to get their money's worth. The U15s had a 200 qualifier, Match Sprints, Scratch, IP, and Points Race. The U17s tacked on a Keirin, and Elimination. Added experience came in the form of a Team Alberta Team Sprint for Chris, and a Team Alberta Team Pursuit for both Mat, and Chris. 

Zac chose the sprint events offered to the Junior Men - 200 qualifier, Match Sprints, and Keirin.  The tight boards of Burnaby offered great feedback for honing sprint skills. 

Zac, Chris, and Mat will be off to the Junior National Track Championships (offered for U17 and Junior) at the end of March, in Milton, Ontario, adding yet another velodrome racing experience to their toolkits.

Good racing Juventus!!

Juventus in the U17 Team Alberta TP

Chris rolls to warm up, and rolls to cool down in Burnaby.

Chris with a great gate start.

Chris and Mat join with Jackson and John from Calgary for Team Alberta silver in U17 Team Pursuit!

Gibson, Ritter - with success at World Cup!

Juventus members, Stefan Ritter and Kinley Gibson, are currently training with Canada's national team program. Stefan is training with the sprinters, and Kinley until recently with the NextGen program. This past weekend, they raced in Cali, Colombia at the 3rd UCI Track World Cup. 

Pre-race training at the Velódromo Alcides Nieto Patiño in Cali, Colombia

View from the stands - Day 3 women's points race at Velódromo Alcides Nieto Patiño

For Stefan, this was his first experience racing against elite men at the World Cup's international level. For Kinley, this was her first experience racing as a member of the Canadian elite women's pursuit team. 

Stefan got his first taste of competition on Day 1, racing the last leg of the men's Team Sprint. The key for Stefan was to get onto man 2's wheel (Canadian rider Hugo Barrette). In man 3 position, Stefan had 500 m of hard effort and then a final 250 m of intense, try and hold on till the finish effort. The Canadian team (Patrice Saint-Louis-Pivin, Hugo Barrette, and Stefan), finished in 9th, just 0.2 seconds from qualifying top 8 for the final. 

Stefan Ritter with a good start for the Team Sprint qualifier.

Day 2 - Kinley would be in P1 (starter) position for the women's team pursuit qualifier. The team of Kinley, Laura Brown, Ariane Bonhomme, and Steph Roorda started well, and was a half lap in, when the marshall double fired his gun: a rider on the opposition Polish team had pulled out of her pedal. A successful re-start allowed the Canadians to ride, and qualify in 2nd place into Round 1.

Kinley Gibson launches for the team pursuit qualifier.

Day 3 - The final day of competition was successful for both Stefan and Kinley.  The Canadian team pursuit women rode against the Aussies for the right to the gold medal final: although the Canadians improved their time by over a second (and had the overall second best time in the competition), they were bested - and qualified for the bronze medal final against France.

Stefan competed in his specialty, the 1 km TT (kilo). Stefan is the current Junior World Champion and Junior World Record holder, but this was his first time experiencing both a qualifier and final in the event - and at the international elite level. Stefan, with a very good effort, qualified in 7th place for the final.

Canadian women qualify to race in the bronze medal final.

Stefan Ritter qualifies for the 1 km TT final.

The final session on Day 3 provided the toughest weather conditions of the competition. Although covered, the track is open air;  the tropical 32C atmosphere is kind to muscles, but wind gusts wreak havoc with effort and lines. Still, everyone is on the same track. 

Stefan starting the kilo in Cali, Colombia.

Stefan ended up in eighth place in the 1 km TT final.

"My first goal was to get into the top 8 for the final, and I did. In the final, I wasn't as good as I expected or wanted, but I can't really complain about a top 8 at my first World Cup."

Stefan Ritter 1 km TT World Cup final

In the TP bronze medal final, the Canadian women put together their best performance of the event.

According to Ariane Bonhomme, "It was a big day, but very exciting! It took us a couple of rides to figure out how to manage the first part of the race.  We have never ridden together as a team – Kinley and I have ridden on the NextGen team, but we’ve never trained with Steph and Laura, so the first two rides we started a bit fast and didn’t have so much left for the last kilometre . . . but we nailed it down in the final.  It was perfect.”

Canadian women after winning the bronze medal final - 2017 World Cup - Cali, Colombia.

Laura Brown, Steph Roorda, Kinley Gibson, Ariane Bonhomme

Congratulations to Stefan and Kinley - great representatives for Canada, and Juventus Cycling Club!

Stefan Ritter and Kinley Gibson - 2017 Track World Cup - Cali, Colombia.

Sprockids, Cranx, LAMP now live on Zone 4!

Link to Sprockids registration

Link to Cranx registration

Link to LAMP registration

An unlikely place to race -

It's winter and the track is covered with snow . . . how about start practise?! Friday nights and Juventus trackies love the countdown to pedal power at the newly appointed Butterdome Starting Hall (you can google it). It's great to get familiar with the start gate, but two up duels from the 2x2 are the best!

Paralympian Ross Wilson demonstrates great focus as Olympian Alex Ongaro checks form.

We have a diverse track group, all keen to improve technique, endurance and power.

Juniors' winter work continues!

Although a few of our Juventus crew have been sharpening tan lines, most Canadian cyclists don't have the opportunity to travel to a warmer climate for winter training. Yes, our Juniors do get outside for winter rides, but regular indoor trainer work is a definite staple for a competitive Edmonton cyclist. 

Wednesday night at the clubhouse . . . windows about to get steamy.

Tracy keeps track of effort during efforts. Yeah, you're not going to fool him.

All the watts.

LAMP, Sprockids, and Cranx ready to go!

Our youth programs begin accepting registrations on February 15th. All registrations are done through Zone 4. 

Ensure you choose the correct program; each program has a separate registration page on Zone 4.

• Sprockids

• Cranx

• LAMP

Welcome 2017!!

It is time to re-new your membership! Link here.

At Juventus we are looking forward to 2017, and all that is constructive.  It is the time to set goals, and initiate plans.

• Our Juniors will be active Tuesday and Wednesday evenings

• Masters are spinning Tuesday and Thursday evenings

• Juventus Track rolls Wednesday evening and Sunday morning

So, take a deep breath and here we go . . .

Juniors in for Christmas advantage!

It is important to incorporate recovery into a training plan. For many of our juniors, November serves as the yearly break from intense training and tough competition.

After that, it is time to work on core strength, and general fitness . . . but the Christmas presents have been opened, and a few cannot wait to get back in the saddle . . . 

Laura and Chris up the effort for an interval -

Coach Tracy matches effort and keeps everyone on task -

Matt steady and solid with his accelerations -

Sean and Ryan know investment now will pay off later -

Juniors heat up the clubhouse Wednesday evenings from 5:30 pm - 7 pm.

Revenge of the Nogg!

Every year at this time, the Eggnog Century tests the fortitude of Sunday morning roller riders at Argyll.  One hundred repeats with regular doses of eggnog can cause some to feel woozy.

And yet . . . that rush of sugar, cream, and spice can spike the occasional outrageously spectacular performance. WADA may be interested.

You can never hide from the NOGG!  

The Medalist

The Instigator

The Terror

The Innocent

Of course, there is always the question of Lucerne vs. Dairyland.  HA! That was resolved long ago - even that slightly crazy cow, (and George) want to have some of what Mr. Snowman is hoarding! 

Dan wonders about Alex's commitment to his Eggnog -

Lorne tries turning over his cup -

Scott has a heavy hand, but Clive is ready for the Eggnog power boost -

That is clearly TOO much!

 . . . but down the hatch it goes -

And the 2016 Eggnog Century is done . . . until next year . . .

Sunday rollers attracts!! (Attracks!)

Juventus trackies finally admit it's time . . . the snow and ice on the outdoor velodrome is a little bit too daunting.  But it's not so bad inside!  Look at the sun shining through our beautiful windows. In fact, Jeff's roller session is so entertaining, the roadies showed up early just to snag a good spot. Today's workout is the beginning of an endurance build and not everyone was up to the task . . . numbers seemed to dwindle by the end. December is early days though, fitness is on the way back - it may get tougher, but rolling will only get better.

Sunday sunshine on the rollers!

Kinley, Dan, and Jeff - easy rolling until the rest have set up.

John and Linda warming up for the warm up. 

Gail with Annie - the old doorway intro to rollers . . . and success!!

Your espresso is ready gentlemen . . . Dylan takes care of the fine details.

Ross eyeing Clive's technique - looks like Lorne is in good form.

- almost ready???

and the efforts begin . . .

A Stellar AGM and Awards Dinner!

On Sunday November 27th, Juventus gathered together, at our clubhouse, for our Annual General Meeting and Awards Dinner. Club President Gail Wozny used the analogy of the visible tip of an iceberg, to our top performers - and looked to celebrate the much larger group below the surface: developing youth, parent assistants, coaches, our many mentors within the club, race organizers, and the rest of our dedicated membership.

Gail - chairing the 2016 AGM -

Gail, acknowledged and welcomed three special attendees:  Erik Oddleifson - one of our sponsors, and chairman of the Argyll Velodrome Association (AVA); Alex Ongaro - our newest lifetime member, and head coach of the Argyll Velodrome Racing Academy (AVRA);  as well as Dave Embury - lifetime member, recent City of Edmonton Citation Award recipient, and head of the steering committee for the new indoor velodrome.

All of our directors gave a brief overview of their programs.  Many of our executive have served the first of 2 year terms; however, office of president was open, and acclaimed by Gail Wozny.  Young Scott MacKenzie put his name forward for the open position of Secretary, and was also acclaimed. 

Lorne took wonderful pictures of our award winners

And who is that?

Scott MacKenzie - Juventus Secretary!

The AGM finished with an overview of the new indoor velodrome project presented by Dave Embury.  Jeff Bakal, and Dave continue to lead the project forward, meeting funding goals. With targets continuing to be met, the City will capitalize shovels to the ground for 2018!

Juventus annually honours our top performers . . . but top performance can be exhibited in a variety of categories. This year's George Award was won by Santino Pasutto - curiously absent, but his story was well told by Bruce . . . oh my.

Following the AGM, Gail continued as MC for our annual Juventus Awards. Gail wonderfully individualized each winner's accomplishments, and gave humorous accent to the sillier awards.  Meanwhile, Lance Adamson had ventured over to Chianti's Restaurant to pick up our delicious dinner.  All enjoyed buffet style dining, along with a variety of lovely beverages, gathered for the festivities, by James Lyon.  It should be noted that chestnut flavoured beer is NOT included in these accolades. 

Bill Burtnik, at the AGM,  describing the accomplishments, and exploits of the 2016 LAMP, and new LAMP+ 

The AGM is complete - onto the Awards!

U15 trophies are World Cups won by Olympian Lori-Ann Muenzer - repurposed!

Top U15 Female - presented by Bill Burtnik to Annie Wyminga Scott

Paul Wyminga is our new Sprockids Director - and Annie's dad!

Top U15 Male - presented by Bill Burtnik to Lukas Bonkowski

Top U17 Male - presented by Ken Germaine to Ryan MacLean

Top U17 Female - presented by Ken Germaine to Abbey McGill

Top u19 Award - Norm Ritter accepts on behalf of son, Stefan Ritter - presented by Ken Germaine

Rookie of the Year - presented by Ken Germaine to Alex Webb

Top U19 Female - presented by Ken Germaine to Devaney Collier

Top Individual Time Trialist  Award - presented by Gail Wozny to Bruce Copeland . . . again!

Top Elite Woman - presented by Gail Wozny to Kinley Gibson

Top Elite Male - presented by Gail Wozny to Ross Wilson

Top Master Woman -presented by Alex Stieda to Gail Wozny

Top Master Male - presented by Gail Wozny to Dan Nelson

Most Improved - presented by Gail Wozny to Michel Herszak. Michel must be  consoled - he will only be satisfied when he is the best in the world.

Most Dedicated - presented by Bruce Copeland to Elke Strohschein

The Volunteer of the Year Award - presented by Dave Embury and Gail Wozny to Dan Nelson. (A gift certificate from Chianti's Restaurant and Cafe is included!!)

The Jim Horner Lap of Honour Award - presented by Gail Wozny to Adam Todd

Long time member Yvonne Harnoth enjoying the afternoon. -

The Hairiest Legs Award is contested in situ - STAND BACK Gail, Ryan MacLean owns the podium on this one!

If Ryan puts these items to use, he will definitely "shave" time.

The evidence for podium ownership.

Cyclocross Award - presented to Nik McGill on behalf of Sidney McGill

Mountain Bike Award - presented to Nik McGill on behalf of Sidney McGill

Track Award presented to Norm Ritter on behalf of Stefan Ritter.

Dave Embury and Gail Wozny present the latest addition for our clubhouse - lifetime member Alex Ongaro's Canada skinsuit from the 1986 Commonwealth Games.

The Argyll Velodrome Association's Board of Director's Scholarship Fund - presented by Erik Oddleifson to Nik McGill on behalf of Sidney McGill.

After telling the story that earned the award, Gail presents a slightly embarrassed Lindsay Herrick Somerset with the Scream Award.

Previously, the LAMP Cup was won by the top LAMP rider. This year,  both top Male and Female riders were acknowledged. Congratulations Miri Licis. 

Over 70 members enjoyed both the AGM, and Awards Dinner in our very own Juventus Clubhouse! Congratulations to all of our winners, and thanks to all of our attendees.

Craig, Clive, Bruce and Jim planning 2017.

Lukas Adomonis 2016 and beyond -

Lukas Adomonis competing at 2013 Track Nationals in Dieppe, NB

I’ve always loved to ride my bike and race - I have a passion for both and it’s undeniable.  I can never stay away for too long without getting called back to the world of cycling.  Evidence of that showed when I was seriously concussed at 2013 track nationals, but was racing cross by late October, and when I broke my leg in the winter, but returned to race the Tour of Bowness this season.  

Large obstacles have always been in the path of my racing career, as I move up the levels to race as a pro.  But none have been insurmountable; I’ve overcome each with a bigger desire for success than before.

Logically, when I was offered the opportunity to race with a development team for the summer, and the chance to compete at pro events against established pro racers, I eagerly accepted. 

Giant Langley Smart Savvy Team 2016  with Juventus riders Lukas Adomonis and Mason Burtnik

Always time for cyclocross -

I began training as hard as I ever have during the winter months.  So it may seem puzzling (even to myself as I write this update), why when given the same opportunity, and a chance to improve once again this season, I decided to turn it down - giving up on a possible pro career in cycling when it seemed so close.

This past season can best be described as a rollercoaster, filled with both great moments and disappointments; however, I don’t regret a second of it.  I value the opportunity and experience gained more than almost any other thing I’ve done.  What this season showed me, more than anything, is that the passion for riding and racing that I’ve had forever, isn’t the same as my passion for a pro career.  

Prioritizing education in 2017 -

I’ve decided to take a step back for three main reasons: I want to embrace the experiences of being a young adult, and part of an amazing university community that otherwise might have been missed; I can prioritize my education that had previously placed on the backburner, as I realize I enjoy my schooling more and more each year; and finally, so I can continue to fully enjoy the passion I have for bicycles and racing - except this year it will be on my terms and hopefully feel like less of a chore.  

So while the updates of my travels and elite racing experiences may disappear for the next year, many of you Juventus members will continue to see me at the clubhouse training my butt off, out on the road for the club rides, and battling for the podium in the local Cat 1/2 Alberta races. Most of all, I hope to see all of you on the bike in the near future.

BC Superweek 2016 was intense -

Looking forward to more cycling -

Juventus Founder Dave Embury honoured by the City of Edmonton!

The City of Edmonton's Citation Award honours an individual who has given significant service and inspiring leadership in arts and culture, community service, or sports.

On Monday evening, lifetime Juventus member Dave Embury was recognized with a City of Edmonton Citation Award in sport, at the Salute to Excellence at Edmonton City Hall.

Dave is a tremendous community builder whose love for racing bicycles has inspired decades of contribution to Edmonton's cycling community. 

Juventus team pictures, taken throughout the years, hang on our clubhouse walls. Take a few moments to check them over.  The glasses may change, but Dave Embury is always there. He is the cofounder of our Juventus Cycling Club - Alberta's largest, and most accomplished bike racing club.  Since its inception, Juventus has produced national, world, and Olympic champions, and has more than 500 active members. Dave continues with Juventus as well as the Edmonton Masters Cycling Club - actively training, racing, and available for advice.

Juventus Cycling Club 1991-

Juventus Cycling Club 2004 -

Juventus Cycling Club 2000 -

Juventus Cycling Club 1996 -

Dave Embury competing in Masters C at the 2015 National Track Cycling Championships -

A bronze plaque at the Argyll Velodrome commemorates club founders - 

Juventus Club President Gail Wozny presents Dave with the Jim Horner Award -

Dave has spearheaded numerous initiatives.  He was instrumental in establishing the Argyll Velodrome Association, to lead its redevelopment after a six-year closure of the venue.  Since reopening, thousands of students have experienced the track, and hundreds of youth, elite, and masters have trained and raced at the Argyll Velodrome. 

Dave also led the project to expand and modernize the Argyll Velodrome Clubhouse, now home to year round Juventus cycling and soccer communities.  This well used facility offers a weight room, computrainer room, showers and change rooms, meeting room, party lounge, general purpose room, storage rooms, and an area for bike maintenance. 

Dave was key to Edmonton being awarded the very successful 2005 World Masters Games, and track cycling events were integral to the bid.

Dave's reach extends beyond Juventus and the Argyll Velodrome. He was a founding board member of the Tour of Alberta pro cycling stage race, Canada's first and highest ranking professional road cycling stage race.

Dave Embury ready to ride in the Velothon offering of the Tour of Alberta Festival - and doing a little indoor velodrome promotion with Gail Wozny, and indoor velodrome collaborator Jeff Bakal.

David is currently leading a project to establish an indoor velodrome as part of the Coronation Recreation Centre. Upon completion, the indoor velodrome will provide for local, national, and international training and competition, but even more than that, it will enhance Edmontonian opportunity for an active and healthy lifestyle.

Congratulations to David Embury, and many thanks for all you have done for cycling - from your Juventus family!

Our young Juventus Sport Performance Award winners - Abbey McGill, Devaney Collier, Sam Poon, and Kinley Gibson with Dave Embury at the 2016 City of Edmonton's Salute to Excellence -

Kinley Gibson wraps up 2016!

Track season has finally arrived! For most of my teammates, September and the months that follow signal the off-season.  My roadie friends breathe a sigh of relief at the chance to get away from the bike for a bit, whether that’s camping deep in the woods or hitting up every party in a 50-mile radius.  As a trackie, I too breathe a sigh of relief … mainly because for the next few months I get to go really fast, turn left, and not go up any bloody hills.

Track shenanigans kicked off with Nationals in September.  I was a bit apprehensive heading into Nats this year, mainly because it was my first time racing track since Nationals 2015 (the Olympics made development racing opportunities a bit sparse in 2016).  While I wanted to perform in the omnium and team pursuit (TP), my focus was all on the individual pursuit (IP).  

Kinley Gibson - 2016 Track Nationals Individual Pursuit - National Champion

I went to Milton looking for a 3:42, which would have been a 2 second personal best.  Some hidden, sanguine part of me was secretly hoping for a 3:40, but I knew that was a long shot.  So when I finished my effort, looked at the timing board, and saw 3:38?  Yeah, that was a pretty good feeling.  I tend to be rather hypercritical of my performances, picking apart every little detail and trying to find any and all errors.  I can say, for once, that I was 100% happy with my performance here – from the warm-up, to the gate start, to the pacing.  Believe me, I don’t say that often.  

Checking heats at nationals -

Picking up my first elite track National Champion’s jersey, along with a silver in the omnium, made for a very memorable Nationals.

A great omnium points race with overall winner Steph Roorda -

With Nationals finished, the NextGen women’s team banded together and set our sights on Pan Am Championships in October.  We had a fun few weeks training in Milton, with the lineup going faster and smoother than it had all year.  Following a bit of racing at the Milton Challenge – where I got to redeem myself in the elimination after a rather dumb exhibition at nationals – we headed down to Mexico where we met up with our 4th TP rider, Olympian Jasmin Glaesser.

Finally winning an elimination race at the Milton Challenge -

Milton kids keen to watch track racing -

Team Pursuit at Pan Ams - smooth and fast -

All our effort in Mexico was directed toward the team pursuit.  Although I had been picked as the omnium rider, that was a secondary goal.  We were focused on not just winning the TP (only a few teams were entered) but more so on setting the best possible time.  

Aguascalientes is considered the fastest track in the world, but riding a fast TP is trickier than you think.

For one, the corners are somewhat technical – they tend to drive you down below the black line in the middle, and launch you high as you exit.  This means sitting in the line and recovering is more difficult, as the wheel in front of you moves more than usual.  

Secondly, you’re at 8000 feet of altitude, which means the air is thinner.  When you get to the front, there’s a weird sense of not having to push against anything – it’s easy to ramp up the pace.  

This sounds fantastic, except for the fact that if you ramp it up too much, you put the hurt into your teammates.  Less air to breathe + wiggly lineup = lots of pain and not much recovery.  

Ready to go!

With all this and much more in mind, we went into qualifiers looking to ride conservatively, feel out our legs, and try to stay smooth.  Expecting a high 4:20’s kind of a ride, we were a bit surprised to ride a 4:24.  We kept our momentum going into the final, where we rode to a gold medal in 4:21 – a very fast time for our group!  We exceeded our own expectations, and it felt really, really cool.

Jamie Gilgen, Kinley Gibson, Ariane Bonhomme, Jasmin Glaesser- 2016 Team Pursuit Pan American Champions

I wish I could say I kept the momentum going into my omnium.  The first day was okay – I was reasonably happy with my IP, although not thrilled with my bunch races.  That evening, for some inexplicable reason, I made the rather bold dinner selection of chicken enchiladas.  Let’s just say, day 2 of the omnium was a challenge.

I’ll wrap up this (excessively) long post with a big thanks to the club. Having a bunch of you out at track nationals this year was a ton of fun – there was infinitely more verve in the Alberta pit this year thanks to the enthusiasm of Juventus!  The positivity and support all of you bring to the table makes a bigger difference than you know, so again, thank you!

The Juventus team at track nationals made everything so much fun!

Rio Silver medalist Ross Wilson reflects on 2016 -

Reflections on 2016

Ross Wilson - 2016 Rio Paralympic Games silver medalist - C1 Individual Pursuit and C1 Individual Time Trial

Rio 2016 was a great experience, definitely a life changing and perspective changing experience. For those out of the loop, I took silver in the men’s c1 individual pursuit and silver in the men’s c1 road time trial.

I can’t take full credit for results without acknowledging my coaches (Cam Jennings, Dean Somerset and Sebastien Travers), PRW for the continued mechanical and equipment support, and Juventus club members for training and encouraging me (the track squad, masters group and in particular Dan Nelson, Tino and Carl).

It’s impossible to adequately convey the emotions, thoughts and experiences from the games, and any attempt I could make would fail to do justice to what is the pinnacle sporting event for para athletes.

Ross Wilson - 2016 Rio Paralympic Games - gold/silver match C1 IP

I’ve shared five “lessons” that always come to the forefront when I reflect on my first Paralympic game experience.

1 – Catching a rival during a pursuit is more satisfying than any negative words you can say publicly; always let your ability speak for itself.

2 – Winning silver is like kissing your cousin; yes it counts as a result, but it’s not the gold and certainly not what you want to brag to your friends about.  

3 – The most disabled category of para cycling (c1) wins a 1 km time trial with a speed (1:12) about 10 seconds slower than the world junior record, and faster than most “masters” categories. You need to be seriously fast to win.

4 – While cycling is a lot of fun, a high degree of professionalism and dedication is required in training – that’s where the difference is really made regardless of what discipline you’re in.

5 – Nothing trumps race experience.

Ross Wilson - 2016 Rio Paralympic Games - Road Race

Stefan Ritter 2016 wrap up!

Hello Juventus!

Team Sprint - Stefan Ritter, Joel Archambault, Patrice St Louis Povin

The end of the 2016 race season for me has been simply phenomenal. After Junior World Track Championships, I came back to Edmonton for a much needed break. However, I only had a few weeks off, as Alex was on my case to start training again - for good reason. I had received word from Erin Hartwell, the national sprint coach, that I was chosen to race the Elite Pan American Track Championships in Aguascalientes, Mexico. As a side note, and if you don't already know, this track is one of the fastest in the world and one where many records are held. Foreshadowing... 

Fast forward to Pan Ams: My legs were feeling good, and after setting a new 200 m PB the week before at the Milton International Challenge (10.177s), I was feeling confident and excited. The other reason I was so excited was because Alex would be along as one of Cycling Canada's coaches. This was going to be a darn good trip. 

The first day of racing yielded a Bronze medal for Patrice, Joel and me in the Team Sprint. With virtually no TS work prior to Pan Ams, this was a huge success and we executed both rides very well. 

Team Sprint at Pan Am Track Championships - Bronze for Canada

Stefan Ritter on his way to flying 200 TT Junior World Record

Stefan gets news (and support) from Team Canada coach Alex Ongaro: he has broken the Junior Kilo World Record.

The next day was the big day for me. Kilo day. Alex did a good job keeping me focused and calm, and most importantly, not letting the thought of a world record creep into my mind. I was in a headspace with zero expectation and pressure. As the track is at altitude, you feel your legs get heavy about half a lap earlier and holding on becomes that much harder.

As I crossed the line, I knew it wasn't the prettiest kilo I've ever done - I was just hoping I beat the time. But immediately I had slightly larger problems to concern myself with, such as attempting to walk, and breath.

After stumbling off my bike, I lay on the ramp for five minutes; after that Dan (the mechanic), and Alex more or less carried me back to the pit. It took me half an hour to finally catch my breath . . . by then, Alex had investigated and determined the official time (they didn't have a large scoreboard). I had done it! - with a time of 1:00.578. After a long escapade at Anti Doping, enabling my record to stand, Alex and I made it back to the hotel, and I went straight to the pool for a very relaxing swim.

The next day presented itself with the sprint tournament and the infamous flying 200. The goal was to execute a solid TT - and it didn't go too badly. My legs certainly did not feel fresh, but my time said otherwise.

I made my way down the ramp to the small TV displaying the times. I looked at the monitor and thought there must have been a mistake . . . and then proceeded to do a triple take. I couldn't believe it - I rode a 9.738! - which was another Junior World Record! Absolutely incredible.

Now the rest was gravy. I made my way to the quarter finals against the Trinidadian rider Kwesi Brown, and unfortunately did not make it further, riding in the 5-8 final. I learned a lot, as I experienced some riding styles that were completely foreign to me.

Match sprints.

A draw against fellow Canadian Joel Archambault

The next day was the Keirin. Joel and I each razored our heats to the last round with ease. However, the final race was a different story. Racing against the powerful Colombian, Fabian Puerta, was a humbling experience to say the least. I finished 7th and Joel 8th - nonetheless, a decent result. Huge props to the rest of the Canadian team at Pan Ams, they got some seriously good results and there are a few Pan Am champs on the Canadian squad now!

Stefan with  Team Canada coach Erin Hartwell

After the busiest five days of racing in my life, we journeyed back home to Edmonton. I had a great 3 week break and then hopped back on a plane to Toronto. I'm now in Milton training as a national team member. We are currently in a huge strength phase. This sees us in the gym five times per week and on the track four times per week. I'm eating upwards of 4000 calories a day and going through my fair share of food in the process. It's hard work, but it's very promising and I couldn't be more excited to put in the work and see results.

Once again thank you all very much for all the support. It goes a very long way and is absolutely instrumental in our success as a club.

Until next time!

Stefan

Ross Wilson offers unique insight on Rio medals

View Ross's interview

On September 20th, CBC spoke with Ross Wilson.  It's a sweet little interview (please endure the little advert) and does surprise . . . click here to view 

 

When you win big, there are a lot of interviews - this time it's on the radio. Ross Wilson continues to be an outstanding representative of Juventus Cycling Club and Canada.