SATURDAY            05h30       ELITE  MOUNTAIN GOAT

                                                      A         SALLAD

                                   06H00      B         FRODO

                                                      C         ROAD RAGE

                                                      D         DETOX

This week will be aimed at the humbling experience the MCC riders received at the SABIE Classic on Saturday.

I have already made a mental note to myself that it is a very silly idea to attempt this race with as much fitness as a contestant in the biggest loser competition.

First error of my ways was placing myself in the same car as the bloody Golden Girls, Vern and Damon were as painful as root canal with a pair of pliers.

Deciding on where to stop for lunch was a matter of life and death and STEER’s was not Vern’s first choice… and he let everyone know.

By the time we arrived at our destination, with one stop to place the GG’s bags in Dr Phil’s car due to a pending rain storm. Detox had arranged for us to stay in the building he owns in Sabie Central, this is where the weekend really started.

The rooms were nice and clean, but the floors were extremely hard, but the fun was to commence in the evening, when the quiet peaceful town of Sabie undertook a ugly transition to a scene from the centre of Hillbrow.

First Vern was hit on by a local tik whore, who for R60.00 would have lubed his naught, then when we tried to settle in for the night, the local Sabie disco and drag racing clubs kicked into action at about 22h00. It was so loud I actually considered joining the party, but my lack of understanding the Afrikaans lingo was a natural deterrent, plus the tik whore was still on the prowl and I only had R50.00 on me!

Race morning approached and let me tell you 7 men trying to offload the kid’s at the pool all similitaneosly causes a blockage similiar to Allan Dale offramp on a weekday after an accident.

We all hit our respective groups, with the two Roadies starting right at the back. Steve was not to concerned as he had informed us hardened MTB’ers that he should be able to ride at a 19km/hr average quite comfortably. We all informed him that this was about as achievable as Frodo staying on his bike.

Race commenced, and the hills started after 2km’s of a flat section, Detox already was eying the first climb with about as much entuthsiasm as a telkom postal worker, his new nick name was born… DNF (DETOX NOT FINISHING).

First climb out of the way, I was passed by the Silent Sufferer who was gliding up the hills as if they were not there. There was then a trio of Oldoak, Steve (who was now understanding the concept of 19km/hr) and myself, we were plodding along at about 10km/hr, not through choice.

I used my great downhill skills and dropped the Old Oak and Nineteen, I managed to see Burry at the loop section, which reminded me of the Epic mentality of “Lets see how we can really piss of the riders by riding in a pointless circle”

The race organisers also got the climbing indicators wrong, so when I thought we had finished the climbing at 2000m, up popped another mount everest. Needless to say my normally happy demeanour dissapeared like a quiet fart.

Ride of the day definetly goes to Damon, who was first MCC man home in 5h08 and even pipped Dr Phil. Damon was gracious in victory and only started mocking Vic on the drive home, he reckoned Vic did not need a bike as he walked so much!!

 Well done to the Silent Sufferer for klapping the boys and finished as 3rd MCC rider home, proving that some girls do have balls!

C you all on the weekend!!!

 Not much from me this week, just a note to those of you going down for the Argus – please read the info below.

Weekend Rides

Cape Argus Cycle Tour 2011

1 weekend left!   And if you haven’t sent your RSVP by now, best you be very nice to me if you want to add your name now, as I have already confirmed numbers at the venues.

So the details:

Saturday – Cyclists – we will meet at the Muizenberg Station car park at 08h45, with the aim of starting off at 09h00.  Please don’t be late, but if you think you are going to be late, please call me on 082 896 0929 or Peter Hausler on 082 562 5745 and we will wait for you.  Families can meet us at the Boulders Beach Restaurant, they will be expecting us from about 10h00.  Map attached.

Sunday – When you have finished your ride on Sunday, please go to Miss K’s and enjoy some lunch and much needed refreshments.  Your families are welcome to wait for us there.  They must please mention they are with MCC.  Map attached

Race Results

The Carnival City MacSteel Cycle Classic was held on 27 February.  The few results that I have are below.  Remember, if you want your results included in the newsletter, you have to forward them to me.

Audax

Marika and Peter Hawkins completed the 400km Addax on the weekend. They started at 21h00 on Saturday night and finished on Sunday at 19h11 – 21hours 11 minutes, with an average speed of 22,5 km per hour. Marika was not on form. Photos attached.  The one photo is of her putting her feet in an ice cream tub full of ice. She was suffering with her feet.  The other photo is of the two old farts on completion of 400km.

Nico du Albuquerque completed his 400km Audax last weekend, having started at 22h00 on Saturday evening.  He was apparently full of flu, but pushed through it all and finished in 21 hours.

Well done, all of you!

The next 600km Audax is on the 18th March 2011.

Frodo’s Fables

This week will be aimed at the humbling experience the MCC riders received at the SABIE Classic on Saturday.

 I have already made a mental note to myself that it is a very silly idea to attempt this race with as much fitness as a contestant in the biggest loser competition.

 First error of my ways was placing myself in the same car as the bloody Golden Girls, Vern and Damon were as painful as root canal with a pair of pliers.

 Deciding on where to stop for lunch was a matter of life and death and STEER’s was not Vern’s first choice… and he let everyone know.

 By the time we arrived at our destination, with one stop to place the GG’s bags in Dr Phil’s car due to a pending rain storm. Detox had arranged for us to stay in the building he owns in Sabie Central, this is where the weekend really started.

 The rooms were nice and clean, but the floors were extremely hard, but the fun was to commence in the evening, when the quiet peaceful town of Sabie undertook an ugly transition to a scene from the centre of Hillbrow.

 First Vern was hit on by a local tik whore, who for R60.00 would have lubed his naught, then when we tried to settle in for the night, the local Sabie disco and drag racing clubs kicked into action at about 22h00. It was so loud I actually considered joining the party, but my lack of understanding the Afrikaans lingo was a natural deterrent, plus the tik whore was still on the prowl and I only had R50.00 on me!

 Race morning approached and let me tell you 7 men trying to offload the kid’s at the pool all simultaneously causes a blockage similar to Allandale offramp on a weekday after an accident.

 We all hit our respective groups, with the two Roadies starting right at the back. Steve was not too concerned as he had informed us hardened MTB’ers that he should be able to ride at a 19km/hr average quite comfortably. We all informed him that this was about as achievable as Frodo staying on his bike.

 Race commenced, and the hills started after 2km’s of a flat section, Detox already was eying the first climb with about as much enthusiasm as a Telkom postal worker, his new nick name was born… DNF (DETOX NOT FINISHING).

 First climb out of the way, I was passed by the Silent Sufferer who was gliding up the hills as if they were not there. There was then a trio of Old Oak, Steve (who was now understanding the concept of 19km/hr) and myself, we were plodding along at about 10km/hr, not through choice.

I used my great downhill skills and dropped the Old Oak and Nineteen, I managed to see Burry at the loop section, which reminded me of the Epic mentality of “Lets see how we can really piss of the riders by riding in a pointless circle”

The race organisers also got the climbing indicators wrong, so when I thought we had finished the climbing at 2000m, up popped another Mount Everest. Needless to say my normally happy demeanour disappeared like a quiet fart.

Ride of the day definitely goes to Damon, who was first MCC man home in 5h08 and even pipped Dr Phil. Damon was gracious in victory and only started mocking Vic on the drive home, he reckoned Vic did not need a bike as he walked so much!!

Well done to the Silent Sufferer for klapping the boys and finished as 3rd MCC rider home, proving that some girls do have balls!

C you all on the weekend!!!

Wayne

Interesting stuff

Dear Affiliates,

 In recognition of Graham Diesels(One arm) contribution to the cycling fraternity, both  as a friend and an inspiration, a memorial ride will be held from Rietvlei Cycle Park ( Swartkoppies road@ The Hub cycle shop) at 07hr00 on Sat 05 March 2011.  A 45 km circular route around the loop in opposite direction will take place. The ride will be monitored and controlled by Think Bike and Metro Police and co-ordinated by our SIGN UP and RIGHT TO RIDE representative Mr Shaun Hannie. A reasonable pace will be ridden at , approx 30km/hr average ( flat roads )and a responsible and safe riding etiquette should be adopted by all . A 2 abreast riding style should be used to ensure safety for all concerned. Parking is available within the Park.( arrive early as there could be a bottle neck). It is hoped most people arrive by bicycle.

 Thank you 

 Gary Beneke          04/03/2001 

Membership

New members

I am very pleased to welcome our new members to the best Club in SA!  Hope you have many happy hours of riding with us.

March birthdays

Happy Birthday to all the February babies – we wish you all the best for the year ahead, and hope you got lots of pressies!

Club Kit

New stock has arrived at the club for those of you who are waiting for it.  If you have already paid for kit, but haven’t received it, please contact Peter Hausler in order to arrange to collect it from him.

See the new price list attached.

Don’t forget that as a club member you are expected to support our sponsors and to wear club kit on all club rides and in races.

Kit is available directly from the club.  Please contact Peter Häusler before dropping in at the club during the week.  Telephone 011 238 7812 or 082 562 5745.

Please also remember that Peter Häusler has a cycle shop on the premises as well – Cycle Classic.  Get all your gadgets, helmets, shoes, and whatever else from him.

Remember, contributions to the newsletter are welcome (it means I don’t have to work so hardJ) – funny stories about your rides, photos, etc, all make it more interesting. 

Regards

Joanne

If you have anything that you would like to contribute to the newsletter, please don’t hesitate to email me (joanne.holmes@mixtelematics.com) or simply reply to the newsletter.  We would love to hear from you.

1. Weekend Spills and Thrills

Well it is finally upon us the dreaded “Man Killer” 3 day MTB ride in Nelspruit.

I clearly remember last year stating I would never go through that again, I would ensure I was in peak condition before attempting those monster climbs out of the Mankele Valley. On day two you had not even covered 1km and the granny gear was being rudely pulled out of the sack. The damn gradient was so steep my front wheel lifted and I ended up on my arse.

This year I am hoping to peak by day 5, my partner is nervous again. But we have decided that a group ride is in order, so they will all just have to wait for me.

The partnership of Chris and “Phillemon” should be entertaining to watch!!

This year another 10 sorry souls have entered this war of attrition, two teams will be giving their all and will be racing whilst the others are going for a mountain biking holiday, as one Old wise man once stated before my first Epic!

I can guarantee a bumper edition of FF next week, so watch this space!

The weekend rides were extremely eventful for the A and B groups.

I have to admit I was amazed at the poor turnout for the B group, there were only 4 riders. It is for this reason that as of this weekend the A and B ride will both start at 06h00, so in the scenario we had, we can still jump into the A ride if allowed.

In the A ride we had two casualties of war, first Glen hit the notorious ditch at the bottom of the fast single track section behind Northern Farm. It is very deceiving and if you are not aware of it, it bites you like deep heat on the balls!!

Glen broke his collar bone and was dropped off at Northerns for some attention, another couple of k’s into the ride, Vaughn, who is making a valiant charge at the RED jersey title this year, decided to do some rock hopping, but did it with out his bike. He thinks he has torn muscles in his calf!

That is 5 falls in two rides, he is catching me.

I will be organizing a Frodo Fallalot training session so I can assist you all in perfecting the way to fall with hurting yourself!!

For the record I did not fall off this weekend, probably as we were going so slowly due to Detox having a Rodney Day and then Vern breaking his bike so he had to ride single speed for the last 30 km’s.

Vern was whining worse than a dog at a Chinese restaurant!

The C group managed a very nice 50km’s at a decent pace of 17km/hr; I think Try Harder has found his place in life.

Well done to all the idiots who competed in the annual Corrugation Cruise on the weekend. Anton put in an unbelievable performance on the single speed, finishing in 3rd place and Mattie was 2nd even with doing an extra 12km’s due to poor marking.

I believe poor old Dave “Windbreaker” Shemmeld did not break the 5hr barrier yet again!

2. Ride equipment Requirements

1. Helmet.
2. Mountain bike that is in good working condition (yes you need to oil it). In addition, if you have left it standing for a long time, something will fail.
3. Water, at least 1L per 20Km.
4. Two spare tubes.
5. Puncture repair kit.
6. Working pump.
7. Tire liners and bike tools.
8. ID document and emergency contact details (carry with you in you backpack on the ride)
9. Some basic first aid materials

3. Weeks Rides

SATURDAY

• 06H00 A KFC
• 06H30 B DETOX
• 06H30 C TRY HARDER
• 06H30 D T BAG

4. Round the corner:

1. 15th-17th October “Man-Killer” 3 Towers

5. Frodo’s Quote of the week!

From the A ride Saturday,

“It is not broken, look how I can move it….”
Glen had to have two operations on a broken collar bone!

Hello all

It looks like it might actually rain this afternoon. There are at least rumblings overhead as I write this, so let’s hold thumbs.

Social Diary

Adults’ Christmas Party – Saturday 27 November 2010, at the Barnyard Menlyn. Show starts at 20h00. Only 20 tickets still available – contact Tracey now to book your ticket (Tracey@iso-tech co.za). We will let you know what the price is next week, the club will be subsidising some of the cost. Only over 18’s for this party!

Kids’s Christmas Party – Saturday 27 November 2010. We had thought to do it at the MTN Bike Park, but the response has been a bit lax. We are looking at some other ideas, and would appreciate your suggestions. Please let Tracey know asap (tracey@iso-tech.co.za). The club subsidises the cost of the Kids’ Party in full, the only cost to you is gift for your child, to a maximum value of R150, to be dropped off at the club the week before. By the way, “kids” means up to 18, so ideas should incorporate all age groups.

RACE RESULTS

Dave Sewell did the Sasko Harties Race in an unofficial time of 3H25. (No timing chip)

If you would like to see your results in the newsletter, please send them to the race captains:

Road – Steve Parker – steven@vaautorepairs.co.za
MTB – Dallas Fenthum – dallas.fenthum@manpower.co.za

UPCOMING RACES

MTN OFM Classic – 5 to 7 November 2010, Bloemfontein. This race is for Mountain Bike and Road. See the attached for more information. By the way, it is a seeding event for the 2011 Argus Cycle tour.

See the attached list of races (these are only the races available for entry through CycleLab – please see www.cyclingsa.com/calendar.aspx for more race information.

ROAD STUFF

We are hoping to make this a regular section, and can’t keep calling this “road stuff” – any suggestions for a name for this section? Please send your suggestions to mccnewsletter01@gmail.com.

And for the news:

The Saturday ride at 5h30 was great fun. It was light and cool before the heat of the day and boy did it get hot later on. Bill and I with Karen and Max sauntered out to Pretoria and back via Blue Hills in time to have coffee and tea at the Mugg and Bean before 8h00. It was a great relaxing recovery ride before the challenge of the following morning.

Sunday dawned nice and early with our first official club ride at 6h30 and what a turn out. It was reminiscent of the old days. Fourteen riders came out on the B/C ride and another eleven turned up at 7h00 for Peters Potter around his plot and back. We went out to Pelindaba and back home via Lanseria. Sounds easy when you say it. Ask the fourteen who did it if it was ‘tres facile’. It gave everyone an indicator of where they stand in terms of getting ready for the races this season. Max my baby, is it time to hang up your bike and start knitting? Peter Hutchins needs to be given a medal. He adjusted his pelvis and hip only a few short months ago on a railway track and he rode around with a single whimper. I take my helmet off to that. Nigel you are getting better. Steven Parker is looking ominous for some really good races this year. He may even have the fastest club ride this year in the 94.7. We will have to see. The Club Chairman honoured us with his presence. Having shepherded Marieka along three hundred kilometres last week he just quietly assassinated the ride. To see him climb up the Lanseria hill without even a drop of sweat on his brow was horrible. I know ‘cos I tried to match him. He crushed me like a pretzel. Whilst I am handing out kudus three cheers to Marieka who is showing she has a heart of titanium. Next up is a 400 honey ! Grant returned from a sabbatical with those filthy mountain bikers. No need to guess who finished the ride first. Despite the pathetic training he received from our fat and out of condition mountain biking section he just showed he oozed class and pedalled his way around without taking strain. Dave….. Dave who??? We never saw him again after the garage stop. Dave was sober and taking much strain especially on the hills. Not wanting to be embarrassed he rode off on his own. I have to admit we never caught him up. This dude is astonishing. He can turn up reeking like a brewery and ride the pants off everyone. When sober he climbs back into his Clark Kent suit and the blue spandex and cape have gone. Apparently he is not unique though. The absent Dean Thomas can also ride fast when fuelled by a bottle of tequila. It was Dave’s birthday on Sunday so Happy Birthday Dave. Ralf did well. The pale faced Bosch of the Kempton Park ride was gone. I swear during that ride Ralf looked like he had come up against a mad pack of Tommies all wielding bayonets and about to give cold British steel up his arse. Ian rode his usual thoughtful pace. That guy is the epitome of still waters. John for some reason decided to chase after the errant Dave. At least he phoned to tell us he got home. Now we come to the greatest thrill of the ride… The malignant midget…. Never ever before I have even come remotely close to passing his pert little butt. He has legs of iron and he has always left me to inhale whatever aromas emanate from his rear end. This was the fool who convinced me six years ago to ride in the 94.7 and I have been waiting for this day for a long time. I absolutely blew him away on Sunday. I have to crow. It is probably never going to happen again but I made mincemeat of him. He died on the Lanseria hill. On the Prison hill he got a sneak peak of his future after he dies. It was hell for him and those little legs finally said howzit. A big thank you to Bill for cajoling the back markers along. He really is an unselfish rider. For those of you I have not mentioned please forgive me. You all rode well. Even you Max. Actually I should mention this. I have never seen Max lose her sense of humour before. This was another first for me.

Sadly this ride is being put to bed for a while. The road down to Hartebeesport dam has become atrocious. When it rains this year whole sections will become gravel again. Secondly the motor bikers down Lanseria hill are a dangerous menace. If the situation changes I will resurrect it. I am dreaming up a new ride to the cradle along safer roads.

This weekend I will not be your leader. I have to face my demons on the Race for Victory. There is a certain hill in the Suikerbos that needs to taught who’s the boss. That hill darn near put me in the ICU last year and this time revenge is in my heart. To the rest of the club riding in this race I wish you well. Saturday will be a rest day for me so I will not organise an early morning ride.

Regards
Steve

Ed: As for Steve’s comment about “Peters Potter around his plot and back”, I have to correct the misconception. 11 people did pitch up for this ride, including some faces we haven’t seen for a while – nice to see you back! We set off just after 07h00, up Old Pretoria Main Road, all the way to Zwartkops Golf Club, where we took a left. Yes, we did a route that led us to the Wimpy, how could we not? But we managed a very pleasant, nicely paced ride of about 45km. Thanks for the company, everyone!

CLUB Du CIRQUE CHALLENGE – 31 October 2010

More details will follow, but for now, the concept is teams of 5 made up of 3 Roadies and 2 MTB each (including one lady per team), and is run on the basis of a relay. So, if you are interested, please get hold of our Race Captains (Steve Parker – Road and Dallas Fenthum – MTB). This will be a family day with other activities arranged by the good folks at the Circus to keep our partners and kids occupied. Please diarise this date – we would love to have a great turnout. Have a look at this link to see what Club Du Cirque has to offer – http://www.circus.co.za/club_du_cirque.html

MOMENTUM 94.7 CYCLE CHALLENGE

Yes, these events are now around the corner.

Main event – entries are now closed, which means those of you who haven’t entered are very welcome to put your names down to help on the day. Don’t forget though, if you are riding, you must replace yourself with a helper on the day.

Before the main event, however, is the much fun Children’s Cycle Challenge, on Saturday 13 November. Entries are now open, and close on 15 October or when the limit of 4000 entries is reached. And, as usual, we will need volunteers to act as marshals, ride the circuit with the kids, and to provide technical support.

And the Mountain Bike Challenge – this is on Saturday 20 November. Entries are now open and close on 25 October or when the category limits are reached. Once again, volunteers are needed on the day to act as marshals. Wayne is also looking for some assistance – see Frodo’s Fables for more information.

Please contact Peter Häusler at the club to put your name (or your helper’s name) down for the above events. 011 238 7812, 082 562 5745, mccycle@iafrica.com

INTERESTING STUFF

From Claudia – I have an entry for the Rand water race for victory (101km, Sunday 10 October) to give away. I was hit by a 4×4 last Thursday while cycling so I am unable to cycle for the moment. The race # and free t-shirt can be collected at the race venue on the morning of the race and it’s timed by champion chip. More info for the race can be found at www.raceforvictory.co.za

From Maxine

Hi everyone,

Anyone interested in a slow ‘C’ ride from Broadacreas shopping centre on Saturday, 9th October should be there for a kick-off of 06h00 (park near the cycle shop at the venue, then we won’t spend 20 minutes trying to locate everyone!!). The route will be about 60km (with a few hills) – dependant on how we feel.

Cheers
Max and K2

From Tracey

Hi there,

Once again I am asking for your help in giving the street kids of Ivory Park a Christmas party and in getting presents and outfits for these kids.

There will be over 50 kids who will be attending the party and I would like to give them each a gift and new outfit (wrapped as 2 separate gifts).

The cost of the gift must be around R150 and it must be a new present. Please do not buy gifts that needs batteries to work as these kids have nothing and cannot afford to replace the batteries.

If you agree to buy an outfit then please also buy undies/panties too and a new toothbrush and toothpaste.

I would like the gift and clothes wrapped separately and marked with the child’s name.

If you do not have time to shop or would rather donate money that is fine as I’ll use this money to buy sweets, food, juice etc for the party. I do have an NPO number if companies want to donate money.

If you are interested in helping please let me know what you’d like to buy i.e. outfit and/or gift and for how many kids. If you want to donate money then also let me know and I’ll send you my banking details.

I am still waiting for the final list of names, ages and gender – at the moment I would just like to know who is interested in helping me, and more importantly the kids.

I will be needing these items by the end of November. Please pass this e-mail onto anyone you think would be interested in helping.

Thanking you all in advance.

Kind regards
Tracey Burnett

DESPERATELY SEEKING ….

Communications Officer

You have to be kidding me … nobody is volunteering for this. Please, people, somebody must have a bit of time to spare, surely???

Interested parties are very welcome, and are encouraged, to contact me. I will happily hand over the dutyJ. Email me on joanne.holmes@mixtelematics.com or call me on 082 896 0929.

AND LAST, BUT NOT LEAST …

CLUB KIT

Don’t forget that as a club member you are expected to wear club kit on all club rides and in races. This supports our sponsors, who make subsidised events like the upcoming Christmas Parties possible.

Kit is available directly from the club. Please contact Peter Häusler before dropping in at the club during the week. Telephone 011 238 7812 or 082 562 5745.

• Short sleeve shirt, shop zip (road and MTB) R 300.00
• Short sleeve shirt, ¾ invisible zip R 320.00
• Cycling shorts, local chamois R 230.00
• Cycling shorts, imported chamois R 380.00
• Bib shorts, local chamois R 290.00
• Bib shorts, imported chamois R 440.00

NEW!

MCC branded socks (Road = white, MTB = Black) R 25.00

Remember …

If you bring back a full set of (any) old club kit (shorts and shirt), your new kit will be discounted by R200, compliments of Law Print and Kevin Watson.

Hint

Old kit is available at half price if you want to add to your wardrobe for training kit.

Please also remember that Peter Häusler has a cycle shop on the premises as well – Cycle Classic. Please support him.

If you have anything that you would like to contribute to the newsletter, please don’t hesitate to email me (joanne.holmes@mixtelematics.com) or simply reply to the newsletter. We would love to hear from you.

Well, that’s all folks. Have a great weekend, and safe riding to all.

Regards
Joanne

• FRIDAY 06H00 MUG AND BEAN

The scheduled Cheese farm ride has been postponed due to it clashing with the Cradle Quest, it is hard enough getting served on a normal day, never mind when there is a full 3 day race on the go.

The replacement ride I have planned will still be as challenging and will be good training for “Man killer 3 Towers” next month, the ride will be approximately 5 hours and will start and finish at the Mug.

SATURDAY 0630 MUG AND BEAN

The A and B group will be riding to Broadacres shopping center, when we get there we will take part in 1 hour of spinning and then ride back. I need to confirm numbers tomorrow to book bikes so please ENSURE

you contact me tomorrow, after that I cannot guarantee you a bike.

Would suggest the C riders meet there and do the class.

This is for a good cause and was well represented by MCC last year so please make an effort, if you cannot be there you can donate money (See attached)

All MCC members to please be in club colors.

1. Weekend Spills and Thrills

The C group is seemingly the popular group lately; it must be the warm weather bringing them all out of hibernation.

The A group comprised of 5 riders and they once again maintained a hard pace over 80km’s with some big climbing averaging over 20km’s per hour.

In the social “Frodo Fallalot” group we had 10 in the group, well 10 for most of the ride, we lost the Zeeeee’s due to Mark battling with serious back pains, the boys have cynically named him “Broke Back”

This is what is great about this club, when you are down you get kicked, but the humor is accepted by all, as the saying goes, the wheel always turns.

In Marks case on Saturday the wheels were not turning at all!

Not all the laughs were at Zeeeeman’s expense, 10 minutes into the ride I had my customary fall, I hit a washed out rut and went down like a Nigerian Prostitute in a Hillbrow parking lot. As KFC rode past laughing and shouting for me to try stay on my bike, he hit the same wash out and went straight over his handle bars!

I heard some members pass comment about KFC having the mentality of a happy meal, very entertaining for kids but not that healthy!!

He who laughs last laughs the loudest…….!

The Vasbyter award this week goes to “Phil-lip the tank’ who decided to take the plunge and moved from the C group to the B. All went well until the tank ran empty at about the 50km mark, Oom was there once again to get the poor man home, well done Phillip you did very well.

Well done to “Can you Phileeep Kleinhans” the race snake super model that raced on Sunday and finished 7th overall, I think we have created a prehistoric Dinosaur MTB race monster!!

Watch this space as the man is looking for a race team position!!

I also heard through the MCC grape vine that the KFC was the fastest club member at the road time trial on Sunday, was it all downhill?

I think you roadies need to get some riding time in??

2. Ride equipment Requirements

1. Helmet.
2. Mountain bike that is in good working condition (yes you need to oil it). In addition, if you have left it standing for a long time, something will fail.
3. Water, at least 1L per 20Km.
4. Two spare tubes.
5. Puncture repair kit.
6. Working pump.
7. Tire liners and bike tools.
8. ID document and emergency contact details (carry with you in you backpack on the ride)
9. Some basic first aid materials

4. Round the corner:

1. 15th-17th October “Man-Killer” 3 Towers

5. Frodo’s Quote of the week!

This was from our ride on Saturday,

“Mark is really taking strain at the back of the group!”

“Ok, I will pick up the pace?”

Regards,
Wayne Burnett

What beautiful weather we are having? Why aren’t we seeing you all out on your bicycles? No more lying abed on Saturday and Sunday mornings – there can’t be a better way to enjoy this beautiful spring time weather.

COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER

Claudia’s concentration on her cycling is certainly paying dividends – check out her race time for the Dome to Dome 90km on Sunday.

But we have a vacancy on the committee – that of Communications Officer. One of the duties for this portfolio is that of producing the weekly newsletter.

We are therefore desperately seeking a new Communications Officer. Interested parties are very welcome, and are encouraged, to contact me. I will happily hand over the dutyJ. Email me on joanne.holmes@mixtelematics.com or call me on 082 896 0929.

SATURDAY RIDE

Steve Cornish is organising a road ride from the Mugg & Bean at Carlswald Lifestyle Centre on Saturday at 06h30 – Klapperkop and back. It will be a reasonably fast pace, in the of 25 to 30 km/hour range. Please let Steve know if you will be joining him – urosteve@mweb.co.za

JOINT ROAD AND MTB DAY AT TEAK – SUNDAY 12TH SEPTEMBER

Those of that who have confirmed that we will be riding on Sunday are certainly looking forward to it. And those of you who are missing out, well, we’ll tell you about it afterwards, and maybe next time you will join us.

Roadies depart from the club at 07h00 with the A & B groups doing about 80km out to Teak, and the C & D groups doing about 50km.

MTB depart from Wayne’s house at 370 Carlswald North Estate at 05h30 sharp! Don’t be late!

Full club kit must be worn for the ride. Don’t forget things like extra tubes, sufficient water, sun block, etc.

Well done to all. And our apologies if we missed you out.

If you would like to see your results in the newsletter, please send them to the race captains:

Road – Steve Parker – steven@vaautorepairs.co.za

MTB – Dallas Fenthum – dallas.fenthum@manpower.co.za

UPCOMING RACES

See the attached list of races.

Also, on a bit of short notice, but “Ride the Rhenoster” takes places on Saturday 11th September – check out the link for more details – www.ridetherhenoster.co.za

Another race for fund raising for a non-profit organisation is taking place on Sunday 19th September at Sedaven, Heidelberg. More details on the “Meals on Wheels” attachment.

Amashova entries close on Monday 13th September – best you enter now if you want to ride. Go to www.shova.co.za

FRODO’S FABLES

Weeks Rides

• Thursday 16h30 Carlswald North
• Saturday 06h00 A SILENT ASSASIN
• 06h30 B FRODO
• C T-BAG
• Sunday 05h30 MCC TEAK DAY

1. Weekend Spills and Thrills

Well it was round 4 of the Nissan series as well as the Spring classic on the Sunday, it was great to see the MCC Flag flying high on both days. Chris completed the 70km route in wind that was blowing harder than a 4 year old trying to blow out inextinguishable candles on his birthday cake!!

He still managed an awesome time of 2h51 and was 31st overall at an average of 25km/hr; there are guys who battle to get this on a road bike!

I managed to complete my weekly ritual by taking a spectacular slide on my arse, what I have managed to perfect is that when I do fall I manage to keep the bike on top of me so I do not scratch the paint work. It is similar to when you are pissed and fall over you never seem to spill your beer?

Of course KFC, who was just behind me, thought this was funnier than Michael Naiker!

So for the last month the Burnett’s have kept the Red Jersey quite comfortably!

My impression of the route was that of a tough work out, even though it was basically our back yard bar the bike jacking element!

Vasbyter of the day goes to “Road Rage”, who was called in to ride at the last minute as the “Old Oak” had some feeble excuse that he could not ride because he was worried his teeth would fall out, I think that is called old age?

Finally he has started acting his age?

RR was last man in but still managed a smile and accepted the accolade!

In the 40km, Line swept in under 2hrs which is pretty impressive for her first race, her comments were, that it was so much fun but was over so quickly! Sounds like an old age pensioners sex life?

A special thank you to the Proctor family for setting up the MCC gazebo and having food and cold beers ready for the troops as we finished, it was much appreciated and needed!!

In the spring classic we had some great results with “Carpet” winning the ladies section, the “Special One” was 11th (On a single speed) and Vaughn was 13th overall!

So a very satisfying weekend for the MCC MTB clan!!

The TEAK ride will be as follows:

• Group riding to TEAK starting from 370 Carlswald North Estate at 05h30 SHARP (Total riding distance will be about 70km)
• The rest of the riders will meet at 07h30 to start at 08h00 at TEAK.
• Families to meet at TEAK AT 11H30 for Brunch.

2. Ride equipment Requirements

1. Helmet.
2. Mountain bike that is in good working condition (yes you need to oil it). In addition, if you have left it standing for a long time, something will fail.
3. Water, at least 1L per 20Km.
4. Two spare tubes.
5. Puncture repair kit.
6. Working pump.
7. Tyre liners and bike tools.
8. ID document and emergency contact details (carry with you in your backpack on the ride)
9. 9Some basic first aid materials

3. Round the corner:

1. 12th September Teak Place Road and MTB Club day.
2. 24th-26th September Cradle Quest
3. 24TH September Ride to Cheese Farm. (Public Holiday)
4. 26th September Possible group ride with JHB and club 100
5. 16th-18th September Mankele

4. Frodo’s Famous Last words!

“Mankele is 5 weeks away, if I start hill repeats this week I will still be ok……”

And for some inspiration – check out the attached picJ

TIME TRIAL

We have rescheduled the time trial for Sunday 19th September 2010.

All road and dual discipline members are invited to attend. This time trial will be used to establish your seeding for riding with the club. If you do not have a time trial seeding you will obliged to ride in the D Group until you can prove that you are capable of riding at the next level. This is not to be seen as a form of punishment and will not be used to belittle anybody. It is merely a means of making the rides for the various groups more enjoyable. It is unfair on the weaker riders in the group to feel forced into keeping up the faster pace, and it is unfair on the stronger riders to be waiting for the weaker riders who are obviously in the wrong group. Full details will be provided as to venue, etc, closer to the time. But please diarise, it is important.

Well, that’s all folks. Have a great weekend, and safe riding to all.

Regards
Joanne

THURSDAY 16H30 CARLSWALD NORTH

SATURDAY 06H00 A CHRIS “STEINMAN” 80KM/4HR

06h30 B FRODO FALLALOT 70KM/4HR

C LEON POPCYCLE 40KM/3HR

1. Weekend Spills and Thrills

The weather this weekend was chilly and overcast; I blame this on the Watson clan and Elize who were out to play.

Saturday’s turnout was pretty poor but we managed to get 6 in the C group led by T bag and I looked after the remaining 9 riders.

I took the crowd off to run the gauntlet of Blue Valley and the om die Dam loop, it was a very enjoyable route and we ended up with 50km in the 3 hours of riding.

Naturally I claimed the Red Jersey early in the day when I fell off going up a steep climb; the boys have now pronounced me “Sir Frodo Fallalot”.

Fortunately, I was not the only one to throw my name away, my technically gifted Mankele partner, Burry, showed the group how to hop straight into a puddle of water and fall on your face. He had the gracefulness of a 1 week old deer running across ice!

We also had to cross a stream which was named shit creek; it was like watching Julius and his family splashing around in the Jukskei.

As I stated, we had to hop over this Maleema infested creek and as the wise man would say “Old Oak with short legs going to be up shit creek without a paddle!”

Old Oak jumped the river and his one foot went into the poo, personally I think he intentionally stood in the shit hoping he would grow a bit!

Vasbyter of the day normally goes to the rider who kaks off the most, this week I will hand the award to MCC legendary sweep vehicle, Oom broom.

Oom, patiently brought home Eckhart who was forced into the B group by myself, he quietly exploded about 10km’s from the end.

Mind you the explosion was due to “Can you Philleep” who decided to pick up the pace on the home stretch, Detox was trying to work out if maybe there was a special on at the Mug that we were all worried about missing!

The C ride managed 35km’s and it must have been tough as “Castle Kevin” was drinking a coke when we got in, must be a first!!

Sunday we had 13 riders brave the cold dark 05h30 start. We set off to Teak. It was an unbelievable route that Sallad took us on. Chris joined us at the halfway mark and the pace lifted notably.

The ‘Silent Sufferer” soon sorted this little problem out, by collaring the power horse and quietly gelded him, he was told to fall in at the back of the group. He looked like a school boy who had been sent to the corner for being naughty, was hilarious and he took it like a man!

We then hit the tar section to teak, where “KFC’ thought he would chase and abuse some roadies, unfortunately all the A riders took this as a sign to put the hammer down.

In Teak I took my customary rock hoping dose when I navigated my shin into a nice rocky outcrop, I managed not to squeal like a pig this time, I am getting used to the pain!

Halfway through the Teak loop I asked the guys why it had gone so quiet, ‘KFC’ had broken his bike again and had returned to base camp, that explained it. Phil wants to rename “KFC” to “Decibel”

After some hard riding, we lost another 2 riders, Damon and Gavin took a short cut as their egos were taking a bashing as “The Silent Sufferer” kept pulling away from them.
Tantrum of the day has to go the ZeeeMan who at the third unsuccessful attempt to ride a steep climb (which impressively Burry rode) threw his bike into the bushes; it was one of those situations where you only laugh when the culprit turns his back.

Chris and Philleeep went on to do a couple more climbs, but the rest of us were like tortoises trying to catch two hares!!

All in all it was a very successful days riding with over 1000m in climbing over 65km’s.

Congratulations to the following riders who were selected for the MCC race team, as explained this is the core team. The criterial for selection will be posted in the club newsletter.

• Sallad (Dallas Fenthum) Team Captain
• Old Oak Malcolm Burnett) Team lead out man
• Oom (Peter Hawkins) Team Domestique
• Silent Sufferer (Lee Ziervogel) Team tactics
• Zee Man (Mark Ziervogel) Team technical
• Steinman (Chris Steinbach) Team engine

A big thank you to Tracey for organizing one of the most well attended functions and also to MCC for sponsoring the lunch!

2. Ride equipment Requirements

1. Helmet.
2. Mountain bike that is in good working condition (yes you need to oil it). In addition, if you have left it standing for a long time, something will fail.
3. Water, at least 1L per 20Km.
4. Two spare tubes.
5. Puncture repair kit.
6. Working pump.
7. Tire liners and bike tools.
8. ID document and emergency contact details (carry with you in you backpack on the ride)
9. Some basic first aid materials

4. Round the corner:

1. 24th-26th September Cradle Quest
2. 24TH September Ride to Cheese Farm. (Public Holiday)
3. 26th September Possible group ride with JHB and club 100
4. 15th-17th September Mankele 3 Towers

5. Frodo’s Quote of the week!

This was from our ride on Sunday,

“Chris what the hell are you doing, trying to kill us? Slow down man”

This was followed by the infamous “Silent Sufferer” stare; looks were worth a thousand words!!
Regards,
Wayne Burnett

I have to apologise again – despite my best intentions, I didn’t get around to the newsletter yesterday.

RIDE TIMES

Roadies – Please remember that we start at 07h00 this Sunday.

JOINT ROAD AND MTB DAY AT TEAK – SUNDAY 12TH SEPTEMBER

Last chance to let us know whether or not you will be joining us. We have to book on Monday, so please let us know over the weekend whether or not you (and your family) will be joining us.

The deal is: Brunch at R145 / head, but the club will be paying R100 / head for those who have let us know and for whom we book. So individually you will have to pay R45 / head plus your drinks. Not a bad deal, if you ask me. If you don’t book with us, and you just arrive, you will have to pay everything yourself.

So please let Tracey know by Monday morning at the latest if you intend joining us. Tracey@iso-tech.co.za

Roadies, we will depart from the club at 07h00 with the A & B groups doing about 80km out to Teak, and the C & D groups doing about 50km.

If anybody is going to need transport back from Teak, please also let us know.

And don’t forget, we are using this occasion to formally introduce the MCC Race Team concept, and will announce the MTB Race Team.

Full club kit must be worn for the ride.

TIME TRIAL

We have rescheduled the time trial for Sunday 19 September 2010.

All road and dual discipline members are invited to attend. This time trial will be used to establish your seeding for riding with the club. If you do not have a time trial seeding you will obliged to ride in the D Group until you can prove that you are capable of riding at the next level. This is not to be seen as a form of punishment and will not be used to belittle anybody. It is merely a means of making the rides for the various groups more enjoyable. It is unfair on the weaker riders in the group to feel forced into keeping up the faster pace, and it is unfair on the stronger riders to be waiting for the weaker riders who are obviously in the wrong group. Full details will be provided as to venue, etc, closer to the time. But please diarise, it is important.

RACE RESULTS

Dave Sewell did a 200km Audax last Sunday, in a total time of 7h20, a cycling time of 6h36, and average speed of 30km/h. Well done, Dave.

I haven’t received any other race results.

If you would like to see your results in the newsletter, please send them to the race captains:

Road – Steve Parker – steven@vaautorepairs.co.za

MTB – Dallas Fenthum – dallas.fenthum@manpower.co.za

UPCOMING RACES

Dome 2 Dome, this Sunday (5th September) – Good luck to all who have entered.

SATURDAY RIDE

Dave Kruger wants to know if anybody would like to join him for a 2 to 2 ½ hour ride on Saturday morning, at 06h30 from the Dros. You can contact him on dave.kruger@ap.sony.com or 083 632 2003.

FRODO’S FABLES

Weeks Rides

There will be boerewors rolls and beers for club members after the race on Saturday.

There will be a convoy leaving from the Mug at 06h15 sharp.

NO ORGANISED CLUB RIDE ON WEEKEND DUE TO RACE AT IRENE

1. Weekend Spills and Thrills

There were 3 groups on Saturday, only just, but with the temperatures climbing we can only hope more dirt pigs surface from their hibernation holes.

The A riders were off at sparrow farts and it was an elite group of riders, they even let Vern join them.

Phil “Race Snake” also decided to tag along with the big boys, rather reservedly, but when we passed them on their way in he looked full of smiles and was not bleeding too much. He also had his new machine and was like a Desperate housewife who had just found her batteries!

The A group managed a 22km/hr average; I knew there was a reason I decided to go B, thank goodness!!

The B ride was completed at a nice leisurely pace of 17km/hr over 80km’s, the Old Oak claimed the Red Jersey when he fell off going up a hill, that is quite special.

Other than new boy John, who popped towards the end and got the Rodney Day award, it was an uneventful ride.

The C group ventured into the waterfall Estate and did more walking and climbing than actual riding, never fear Geriatric, nothing ventured nothing gained!!

Die Harder also had a MTB session where he got to walk more than ride when he completed the Pondo Pedal August 2010 on the Wild Coast. You can see pictures at www.duraventures.co.za

The average riding time was 11km/hr, must have been rougher than a Bushman’s heel!!

2. Ride equipment Requirements

1. Helmet.
2. Mountain bike that is in good working condition (yes you need to oil it). In addition, if you have left it standing for a long time, something will fail.
3. Water, at least 1L per 20Km.
4. Two spare tubes.
5. Puncture repair kit.
6. Working pump.
7. Tyre liners and bike tools.
8. ID document and emergency contact details (carry with you in your backpack on the ride)
9. Some basic first aid materials

4. Round the corner:

1. 2nd September 3 hour night ride from Mug and Bean starting at 17h00
2. 4th September Nissan Race #4 Irene
3. 12th September Teak Place Road and MTB Club day.
4. 24th-26th September Cradle Quest
5. 24TH September Ride to Cheese Farm. (Public Holiday)
6. 26th September Possible group ride with JHB and club 100

There have been NO RSVP’s for the Teak ride on the 12th from the MTB riders, come on you bloody useless bunch, we need to know numbers so we can book.

Please contact Tracey at tracey@iso-tech.co.za

5. Frodo’s Famous Last words!

“Mankele is 6 weeks away, plenty of time……”

INTERESTING STUFF

• An article on the art of Pacelining is attached – thanks to Ian Gornall for the contribution.
• A free on-line MTB magazine is available at http://www.imbikemag.com. The latest issue is number 7 http://www.imbikemag.com/issue7/
• There seem to be some issues with the Argus entries – see the info below from CGC. If there are any questions, please send them to me, I will try and get clarification from CGC and CSA.

Dear members,

There seems to be some confusion with the opening of the Argus Cycle Tours entries, this communication hopefully will clarify what all potential entrants need to know and do.

To obtain either a Cyclosport or Full Racing license, which are required to ride in any sanctioned fun ride across the country, the applicant needs to be affiliated to CSA, this is only achieved, either through a registered provincial club or directly to the province in which they are domiciled. Any licence procured in any other way will not be issued to the applicant, which means any monies paid for country membership or the like will not entitle the applicant to a license.

In the Argus entry process the applicant may only purchase a Cyclosport license and this will allow entry to the 2011 Argus. For all members that require a Full racing license, they will be able to upgrade once the CSA Licensing system comes on line and their seeding in the event will be based on their seeding.

For all the entries that do not wish to procure a CSA license they will be required to purchase a day license specifically for the Argus Tour.

With the above in mind it is recommended that an applicant, if resident in a province outside of the Western Cape, requiring and annual license should opt for option 2 following extracted from the on-line entry form:

2. Pay for a CSA Membership (R75) – Pay for your annual CSA Membership during the entry process and join or renew with a cycling club at a later stage. Note that your CSA license/membership will only be activated once you have also joined a CSA-affiliated cycling club and your membership has been confirmed by your club on the CSA system.

This is recommended for all cyclists that intend to participate in more than two rides throughout the country in 2011.

The following extracted clause from the Argus entry form is slightly misleading:

1. Join/renew PPA – You can become a member of PPA (a CSA affiliate) in one of the following classes:

• Country Membership – R135 which includes a CSA membership (value R75.00) allowing for participation in cycling events across SA. Used for members living more than 500km from Cape Town.

The claim that this will allow participation in all sanctioned events across the country is incorrect the conditions mentioned in Clause 2 above still apply for all cyclists resident outside of the Western Cape, you have to affiliate to Cycling SA through a provincial registered club or where applicable to your province of residence. What clause 1 does buy you, should you so desire is possibly the following;

• As a PPA member, your benefits include:
• Preferential seeding for the 2011 Cape Argus Pick n Pay Cycle Tour. You will start ahead of the open unseeded groups even if you do not qualify for a seeded group;
• A R30 discount off your entry fee for the 2011 Cape Argus Pick n Pay Cycle Tour;

In conclusion CGC believe that all cyclists should ride in their qualifying grouping based on their seeding and not be placed in seeded groups due to a procured privilege, however this applies in our province to ride like with like for the safety of all.

Well, that’s all folks. Have a great weekend, and safe riding to all.

Regards
Joanne