Monday, February 28, 2011

Update

Going into the last couple weeks of the winter session, there are still some indoor workouts to focus on but the spring temperatures are a welcome addition to training. 

Last week we had several "Top Dog" Time Trial Classes.  And it was Hot!Hot!Hot! at the Speed Shop. Thanks to our sponsors Wheel Base Bikes, Raw Revolution, Justin's Nut Butter for their support.  Lucas M. rolled it back to the top in the Men's Overall Category cracking 15' and edging out Nate W. by 1"!   Defending Women's Overall Champ from the fall, Hannah H., was in the house this weekend and laid down a new shop record for the ladies 16:47. Jim J. is the new leader in the Men's 40+ Category by 12" over Ray T. Only 2" separate leader Michele T. and Cheryl S. in the Women's 40+.  RB took over the reigns in the Men's 50+ Category and holds a 1" lead over reigning champ Greg L. Vicki B. knocked almost a minute off of her last go and did a PB to take over the Women's 50+ Category.
On to the team competition where Steve W. and Ray T. have a solid lead in the Men's 80+ Team and Patty C. and Michele T. are comfortably on top in the Women's 80+ Team.  The Mixed 80+ Team  has Cheryl S. and Ray T. with a 30" lead over Michele T. and George C.  The new Parent/Junior Category has speedsters Matt C. and Patty C. in the top spot over Nathan T. and Ray T.
Full results are at www.kelleyacres.net.
The TT will be going in some random winter session classes over the next two weeks and on the weekends. If you are not in a regularly scheduled class, look for openings and added classes on the weekend. If you have a group (5 rider min.) that would like to do a class together we will be happy to set something up.

In other news....
The Frederick Triathlon Club has organized a Retul bike fit presentation in Frederick by Steve Ruck of Bike Doctor on March 15 at 7pm.  Check the website for details HERE!

Make up and Punch card classes will expire on the last day of the Winter Session on March 13. 

Look for more updates and info on "What am I going to now that CT Classes are over?

Monday, February 7, 2011

Inspiration

This time every year it seems like everyone starts looking for a little bump in motivation.  Cold temperatures, bad weather and lack of daylight for several months takes its toll.  While many were excited to get outside and take advantage of one of the mildest winter days in a few months, I managed to not only find motivation but also inspiration inside this weekend.

The Speed Shop is halfway through the winter session and also in the midst of the 2011 Winter "Top Dog" Time Trial Competition.  When I contacted Nate Wilson about stopping by this weekend to give the TT a go I had no idea I was about to get the biggest dose of motivation along with inspiration I've had in a long time.  In my opinion, Nate, along with his parents Jim and Carolyn, and brother, Avery, are some of the biggest supporters of all things cycling in our area.  At 20yrs old, Nate will be representing the Under 23 USA National Cycling Team in Europe in about a month.  After that, he will be racing for the California Giant Cycling Team.  The bigger deal here is that Nate was hit by a truck and almost killed on a training ride mid December in Tucson.  The fact that he could answer my email was a relief but even more exciting was that he wanted to come for a visit to "Kelley Acres".  My buddy, Susan Hefler, of HPC, also Nate's coach and the inspiration for the Speed Shop mentioned Nate was able to ride but the intensity has been low due to hardware holding his jaw in place restricting airflow conducive to high intensity.  The hardware came out on Wednesday and Nate confirmed he was good to go for the TT on Sunday.  Despite the warmest day in months, we fired up the Speed Shop for a "Top Dog" TT session. 
Nate, his mom Carolyn, and a few Shop regulars, Matt from NCVC, Tsahai, and Steve from ABRT all took on the CompuTrainer Indoor Time Trial 10K course.  For his first dose of intensity in a couple months, Nate laid down the fastest time this season.  Sweet! 


 Carolyn and Nate
    Nate, Carolyn Tsahai, Steve, and Matt

After the ride, listening to Carolyn talk about Nate's attitude after his accident and then seeing it for myself,  I ended the day not only motivated and inspired but extremely thankful. 

Monday, January 31, 2011

Hot! Hot! Hot!

We survived another busy week at the Speed Shop. The 2011 Winter "Top Dog" Time Trial Competition is underway. 



One of the top rides this week goes to Michele T. She came back for a visit after a long break.  Sporting her Pittsburgh Steeler kit she was all smiles during the warm up before the Time Trial.

Oh Yeah! Look at that time! And if you look closer you can see her average watts!  She set a Shop record for the ladies and now leads the overall and the 40+ category. And perhaps turning a few heads in the Men's Categories. Go Michele!


Erica and Eric joined us for the maiden voyage of Eric's new Trek from Wheel Base Bikes, sponsor of the "Top Dog" Time Trial.


Leading the way in the "Top Dog" Men's Overeall category is Jim W. of Whole Wheel Velo Club.  After being edged out by 1" by Lucas M. in the Fall TT, Jim is coming into the Winter with additional motivation.
Jim J. of ABRT is back and on top of the Men's 40+ Standings with a solid 15" lead over Kevin C.  Jim took on the TT Saturday after a good warm up at the Snotcycle Race in the morning.
The Men's 50+ category has a new leader, Harry Slife.  Harry just started classes this winter at the Speed Shop and is getting stronger every ride! Way to go!
On the ladies side, Vicki B is back on top of the Women's 50+ standings. Pretty impressive after a couple months off the bike to recover from an Ironman. 
While most of the combined age categories are still getting organized, the Parent/Junior combined category gave it a go on Saturday.  Harry and Jacob Slife came out on top this week with a strong ride but only 20" separates the top 3 teams.  This could get interesting.  The juniors are training hard and growing strong fast!
There is a lot of room for more combined 80+ teams.  Remember you do not have to ride the TT at the same time. And only your best time is used. 
Look for more updates and check out the results at www.kelleyacres.net.

Sunday, January 23, 2011

Full Tilt

The Winter Session at the Speed Shop is full tilt with packed classes.  There are lots of exciting updates coming your way so read on...

Armed with Functional Threshold Power (FTP) information, riders are training smarter!  The FTP class started out as an experimental class to find out if anyone would like to learn more about how training with power effects their workouts.  Everyone embraced the information and are now using it to train more specifically to the data obtained from the FTP Testing Class.  


Junior Riders Nathan C., Ken J., Nathan T. and Jacob S.

The Speed Shop is very excited to announce the addition of the first Junior/Parent Class. Led by Coach Ray on Saturdays these guys are getting in some great workouts but more importantly developing good riding habits.  Look for these kids on the road this spring.

Navy Collegiate Cycling Team led by Jim W.

With temperatures in the single digits the Navy Collegiate Cycling Team paid a visit to the Speed Shop this weekend. Race season is only a couple weeks away for these guys and  Coach Jim W. wanted to fine tune their fitness. 

Announcing the 2011 "Top Dog" Winter Time Trial Competition

After a very exciting "Top Dog" Fall TT Competition 0ur wonderful sponsors are once again on board again for the winter session. Wheel Base Bikes, Justin's Nut Butter, Raw Revolution and "Kelley Acres" Speed Shop have all returned with some great prizes for our "Top Dog's" in each category.   We have added a  new combined category, the Parent/ Junior (18 & under).  NOW is the time to get your team together and start planning your strategy because the Time Trial will be run randomly starting this week in the Winter Session classes. Also,  look for other added classes.   Check out the new flyer on the website.


Speed Shop Housekeeping
There has been overwhelming response to classes this winter. We have created a Google Group to help with communication.  This is a great way to find out about last minute class openings and random classes that are added. Also, if you would like to find a substitute, in lieu of a make up,  for a class post it on the Group. If you are going to get reimbursed for your spot it must be handled directly with the rider.  The Speed Shop will not handle funds between riders.  Please let Chris know of any changes.  If you are not in the group yet send an email and you will be added.  

Thanks to everyone for all your support this year.  The Shop is feeling the love and we hope you will be feeling it on the road this spring! 




Please read carefully our policy on cancellations. 
Pre-Registered and Punch Card riders must give 24 hrs. notice if unable to attend a class in order to qualify for a make up.  The rider not attending must give the notice directly to Chris.  Riders can find a substitute to pay them directly in which case the rider missing the class will not qualify for a make up.  The Speed Shop will not handle payments between riders.  Classes can be made up in any class with available space. If no notice is received, the rider does not qualify for a make up class.  In the event of holidays or inclement weather classes every effort will be made to reschedule or offer a make up. 

Wednesday, January 5, 2011

And The Winners Are....

The 2010 Fall "Top Dog" Time Trial Competition sponsored by Wheel Base Bikes, Justin's Nut Butter, Raw Revolution, and "Kelley Acres" Speed Shop  came to a close last weekend but not without a little last minute excitement for the Men's Overall defending champ Lucas M! Triathlete Lucas of  Snapple Tri Team  had one shot to take down the strong man roadster Jim W. of Whole Wheel Velo Club.  And that he did by a mere second on the last day to defend his title. 


"Top Dog" Lucas M. takes the win!
On the women's side, relatively new to riding and new to the Speed Shop this year,  Hannah H. smoked the course like a veteran nearly breaking the 17 minute mark to come out on top of the Women's Overall. Hannah, an accomplished runner sponsored by Brooks , will hopefully be back to defend her title in the Winter TT.  Also new to riding and the Speed Shop,  Erica S., coming from a strong rowing background had a fantastic ride to hold on to second place. 

Hannah tearing up the road

In the more mature categories... Strong and steady Ray T. of NCVC managed to stay on top of the Men's 40+ Category from day one.  Edging out Frederick Tri Club's George C. by 3 just seconds and taking a significant chunk of time out of last year's performance.  Patty C. came out on top over Christine M. by only 16 seconds in the 40+ Women's category, both are from the  Frederick Tri Club


Ray T with his swag from the 40+ Win

In Ray T. style, Greg L.smacked down in the Men's 50+ from the first go and held the lead to the end! 

Vicki B. of the Frederick Tri Club came off a two month post Ironman Florida break to loosen her legs up and win the Women's 50+ .

Greg rolling in for the Early Bird Tuesday class

Vicki B's welcome back to training!
In the combined 80+ age categories  Patty C. and Vicki B. teamed up to win the combined women's category. And Hannah H. teamed up with new to the Shop this season Bob G. to win the combined mixed category by 18 seconds over Lucas M. and Vicki B.

A few shout outs to most improved go to a couple more Frederick Tri Club members Amazing Margaret N. and Fireball Karen H. who managed to knock off minutes from their first TT.  And in the spirit of starting our junior class 14yr. old  Ken J. made significant improvements to knock a couple minutes off of his TT.

We are finalizing the details of the Winter TT. We will be adding a new Junior/Parent category.  Check the web for the final standings and soon to be added details on the "Top Dog" Winter Time Trial Competition.

THANKS AGAIN TO THE SPONSORS FOR ALL THEIR SUPPORT!
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In other news the Speed Shop has added a new Google Group to the communications center. This is a great way for all the Speed Shop riders to stay in touch without blasting the entire email distribution list .  Many have already been added to the list. If you aren't sure you can go to the "Google Group" link above and check membership to see if you are on it. If not it is very easy to join.
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The Winter Session has begun so check back for lots of news and updates


Friday, December 17, 2010

UPDATE!!!!

Lots of great stuff going on at the Speed Shop as the Fall Session concludes this weekend. 

DO NOT PANIC! 
There will be random classes to get your fix before the Winter Session begins on January 3rd.  Keep an eye out for email or facebook posts.  Pre-registration is going well. There are some spots available in the Wednesday morning and evening sessions and as of this posting in the Saturday 8a.m. class.  Remember if you sign up for the full session this guarantees your spot at that time slot for 10 weeks.  If you want to split the weeks with someone this is a possiblity but one of you must pre-register to secure the spot and work out your schedule and payment amongst yourselves.  If you want to start another class all you need is 5 riders and we will figure out a time.

SOME VERY EXCITING NEWS! 
The juniors class is taking on some form. We have three 14yr. olds and their parents signing up for a Saturday noon class.  We have 2 spots left for either 2 juniors or a parent/junior (18 & under) combo.  Call, email or text for more information. 


FALL "TOP DOG" TIME TRIAL UPDATE
Even though the Fall Session is coming to a close this weekend the Fall "Top Dog" Time Trial is definitely heating up!
Top Dog Jim W. keeps shaving away seconds every ride to hold the lead in the Men's Overall Category.  My guess is some more big dogs are coming out to play real soon. It could get interesting.  In the Men's 40+ Category  Ray T. is also cutting time off of his ride to hold the top spot.  Greg Light is sitting at the top of the Men's 50+ but with a strong showing by Ed H. this week knocking off a nice chunk of time from his previous ride he can't relax too much. Not to mention the Standings Stalkers that might show up. 
Erica "Stealth" Stieve took over the Top Dog spot this week in the Women's Overall Category.  This was her first try at the TT and has close to a 30" lead over Patty C. who is leading the Women's 40+ Category by only 14" over Christine M.  Hard working Donna PT is the Women's 50+ leader with Vicki B. only a few seconds back. 
On to the Team Competitions. After some position jockeying this week the 80+ Mixed Teams is the most popular.  Ray T. and Tsahai T. are still holding on to their top spot.  With more teams jumping in the mix in the next couple weeks this category could really heat up!
In the Women's Combined 80+ Category Patty C. and Vicki B. are leading Teresa D. and Calista P. 
It seems the Men are a little shy about teaming up in the 80+ Combined Category. Come on guys! 

Remember Wheel Base Bikes is offering up a fantastic prize for all the "Top Dogs" , a free basic bike maintanence package.  And with the weather we've been having it's going to come in handy!  Along with some other goodies from Justin's Nut Butter and "Kelley Acres" Speed Shop.   Don't forget to check the twitter (@kelleyacres) feed for up to the minute action.

Please remember when we have Time Trial Classes having your time posted is optional. 

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Wishing Everyone a Wonderful Holiday Season from
"Kelley Acres" Speed Shop

Monday, December 6, 2010

Winter Session Update and More!

Winter Session Update!

The Speed Shop's busiest Fall Season so far is coming to a close on Dec. 19.  We will be offering a limited (primarily weather based) schedule from Dec. 20th - Dec. 31st.
The results are in and 80% preferred the 10 week Winter Session.  Classes will begin Jan. 3rd and end on Mar. 13.  Thank you to everyone that chimed in on the survey.  The schedule will remain bascially the same.  We will add classes based on demand,  inclement weather, and for the "Top Dog" Time Trial.  You read it right! We will be having a Winter "Top Dog" Time Trial Competition. Registration will be opening on Dec. 13th at 8p.m. at BikeReg 

Functional Threshold Power (FTP) Testing Class

Functional Threshold Power (FTP) is a key factor in your cycling arsenal. Don't worry if you have never heard of it.  Once you learn how it can enhance your workouts you will be hooked.  FTP is a function of the highest power output that can be maintained in a steady state for a period of time.   
With so many regulars coming to the Speed Shop, it's time to offer another way to train even more efficiently.  During the last week of December look for a Functional Threshold Power (FTP) Testing Class.  The class is designed to determine your power zones in order to train more efficiently.    With a structured warm up, the test is done as a 20 minute time trial.  Once you have your appropriate power zones it allows you to apply them directly to each workout.  This is just another great piece of information in addition to heart rate and rate of perceived exertion (RPE). 
Classes are scheduled for Dec. 29 and Dec. 30, 2010. Registration will be at BikeReg.Com

Fall "Top Dog" Time Trial Competition
The Fall "Top Dog" Time Trial Competition will be heating up as the year comes to a close.  Right now Jim W. has maintained his lead in the Men's Overall and Patty C. in the Women's Overall Categories.   Ray T. and Patty C. are holding on to the top at the Master's 40+ .  Greg L. and Donna P. are still in the lead in the Master's 50+ .  New since the last blog update is the Combined ages 80+ Mixed Category. Tsahai T. and Ray T. have a nice lead going into the final few weeks of the competition.  There are rumblings of a few riders getting ready to take a shot at top spots. Stay tuned....
The competition ends on 12/31/2010

Check this out....Reindeer Rescue Run
This Saturday Dec. 11 is an opportunity to run for a great cause  - The Frederick Rescue Mission
~Event has 3 start times to include as many as possible: 7:00, 7:30 and 8:00 at Baker Park in front of the Gazebo

~Each "loop" is about 2.5 miles with each loop ending at the Mission for breakfast. You can do 1, 2 or all 3 loops. The group will trot together at about an 11 min/mi pace
~No registration fee - just bring some nonperishable food for our food pantry or gently used clothes and shoes
~the season - prizes awarded for best costumes -
For more info contact John at jck51@aol.com

Calling all Junior Cyclists!
If you or anyone you know has a junior that has a bike and would like to try a CT class with other juniors please call, email, or text for more information. 

**Gift Certificates Available