Track Class @ Encino Velodrome...

No time to think about it - the intro is tomorrow, followed by a six week course on Wednesdays, beginning May 2.

sign up at encinovelodrome.org

Omnium and Sprint Tournament at Encino Velodrome...

If you think, after reading the title of this post, that I made it out to the velodrome to watch some racing last night you would be correct. It has been years since I last sat those rickety old bleachers, watched the sunset beyond that big concrete oval, and shivered in the cold night air. That's right cold night air, it was freaking cold by the time I left. It is also a shame that it has taken so long to return, because the racing was exciting, and it was fun sitting in the seriously packed stands with a big group of spectators who were completely into the action, cheering for their favorites, laughing at some little thing of notice, chowing on some barbeque, etc. After a recent couple break-ins at the facility it was good to see so many people come out in support.


The races last night were sponsored by Golden Saddle Cyclery in Encino, and were part of the Summer Race Series. There are two more Wednesday night events on the calendar, and shouldn't be missed if you have the opportunity. Not only do you get to see some good racing, have a fun evening (a trip to the velodrome was one of the first dates I had with my wife, back in the day), and you help support a worthy institution and volunteer organization (who by the way did a great job of keeping things lively and moving).


Some highlights, well the sprints for one - there were some ripping fast circuits being ridden. One guy, don't know his name, but he is a familiar face at So Cal races, road and track, pulled out of his left pedal while flying around the track, and finished up one legged, managing to control himself and his bike. The organizers let him go again later. Then as we were headed out, my wife kindly picked up one of those cool Save The Track Bike tee-shirts for me. 

If you want more, follow the link, or better yet stop by the track during the final two events of the series, August 24, or September 7.

Break-in at Encino Velodrome...

I woke up this morning to read, via Ride The Black Line, that someone has broken into the Encino Velodrome again. It seems like there was a break-in just a handful of months ago, and now again. For those of you who do not know, the Encino Velodrome is an organization run entirely by volunteers. All those people earn satisfaction rather than paychecks. What funds come into the Velodrome, goes to maintenance and the programs and races they put together. When things like this happen, it is a difficult set-back and a slap across the face on so many levels. The Encino Velodrome is the areas venerable elder. So many people have been introduced to the sport on its oval, so many champions have raced and trained there. Growing up in the SFV it was the first velodrome that I visited, and it is a shame that some people are so deficient in morals that they will attack an institution that benefits so many. The Encino Velodrome is a community asset, and I am sure they would accept a helping hand, if you are so able to lend one. The Encino Velodrome website is here.

Learning Curve: Track Class at Encino Velodrome...

Was reminded of this from a posting at Ride The Black Line:

Great place to learn or improve your bike handling, while experiencing a different aspect of cycling, one that most cyclists, myself included, only have a passing familiarity with. Of course, it would have been easier those many years ago when I was still living in the Valley, but you may be closer. Direct link the the Velodrome website here.