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Letters to Cyclingnews - December 13, 2002
Here's your chance to get more involved with Cyclingnews. Comments and criticism on current stories, races, coverage and anything cycling related are welcomed, even pictures if you wish. Letters should be brief (less than 300 words), with the sender clearly identified. They may be edited for space and clarity. We will normally include your name and place of residence, but not your email address unless you specify in the message.
Please email your correspondence to letters@cyclingnews.com.
Recent letters
Tom Boonen
T-Mobile
'Cross in the USA
Graeme Miller
Why Lance will win his 5th Tour
The need for supplements
Scott Moninger
Cipo and Pantani
Velodrome certification
Asian races
Gene doping
Robbie McEwen
The media in cycling
Back surgery
Climbers vs sprinters
Training in Spain
Brooklyn Cycling Club
Tom Boonen #1
Matt, I have to disagree that it "makes no sense". I think that it's silly to compare Patrick Lefevere's performance as a "classics" DS with Bruyneel and the Postie crew. It's pretty clear what Patrick has considered a "must win" (classics, preferably northern European, preferably Belgian, although I think HEW was a nice surprise) vs. the Johan B list (any stage race longer than two weeks in France and maybe Spain). Look at all the classics Mapei won during Lefevere's tenure there. I bet that Boonen is going as much for Patrick and the focus of Quickstep-Davitamon on the classics as much as he is going to ride with God, I mean Johan Museeuw. I admit from where we all sit it doesn't appear that it was handled very well, but I'm sure that we don't know what REALLY happened, and from an outsider's perspective, Heras' move from Kelme wasn't exactly squeaky clean either. I have to disagree that USPS is a "one of the stronger classic teams", in this regard (and only for lack of focus/interest - if Bruyneel wanted a classics team, I'm sure he'd get the same results, as he does at the tour - he's that good) I would rate them behind: Rabobank, CSC, Lotto-Domo, QS-Davitamon, Fassa Bortolo, Telekom, and Cipo's new team. What was the last World Cup race Postal won? In the WC, second places at Amstel Gold, fourths at P-R, and Boonen's third at P-R doesn't make them a stronger classic team to me.
I would love to see a "clean" VDB come back and have a great spring with Boonen and Museeuw. Not that Knaven is a slouch either, he has one more P-R win on his palmares than all of the Posties put together?
He's leaving a team that doesn't work to his strengths to go to one that specializes on his strengths, with room to become close to team leader rather quickly if he delivers. I'm sure that Bettini will take on a fair share of the pressure, I don't think it will all fall on young Tom's shoulders. If he stayed at Postal, and won de Ronde, do you think he'd get any more clout or support than George did after his Gent-Wevelgem win?
I think it was a pretty good move, actually. But I'll retract this if he turns into the next Edwig van Hooydonck.
Now, where can we get some of that Quickstep-Davitamon swag?
Rick Beuttel
Seoul, Korea
Thursday, December 5, 2002
Tom Boonen #2
Although I sincerely do not condone the fact that Tom Boonen broke his contract with US Postal to move to Quick Step, the sportive reasons seem to be fairly obvious, as opposed to what Matthew Riggs wrote in his letter. US Postal only has one goal: winning the Tour de France with Lance Armstrong.
During the past season they only had two good classical riders: Boonen and
Hincapie. There was little support for them, especially when you compare it
to the new Belgian Quick Step team. This team is built especially for the classics:
they don't even have a rider for the stage races (let's not talk about Virenque
here). I think that a team with a management that has consistently been successful
in the classics would be far preferable to US Postal, even though that is an
amazing team as well, but for the major stage races like the Tour.
Although Museeuw will probably (!) retire after the classics, this still gives
Boonen the opportunity to race close to him for a few months. Every Belgian
rider wants to do so. But even when Museeuw retires, the team still has Bettini
(remember him: he won the World Cup), Knaven, Bodrogi and Vandenbroucke (?)
and several other very gifted classical riders. Not too bad, I think. So Boonen
will not be alone. He will only be the leader for Paris - Roubaix, but only
from 2004. And what if? He was better than Hincapie in that race this year,
as results and race story will prove.
And concerning the pressure: Belgian press will pressure Boonen no matter where he rides. Lefevere is generally known to be a director who gives youngsters the chance to develop. Just look at how he slowly brought Vandenbroucke in his Mapei days. So there is no comparing US Postal to Quick Step and the fact that extra-sportive reasons for the move are totally wrong, there are plenty valid sportive reasons why Boonen moved to Quick Step.
Peter Hoogervorst
The Netherlands
Thursday, December 5, 2002
Tom Boonen #3
While I think it a "fools rush in" situation for Boonen and he and his handlers
need to watch carefully that he doesn't burn out too early or take any "help"
from the likes of VDB or Tricky Dick, Boonen is going to arguable the best director
with regard to Paris Roubaix in Cycling.
It is also doubtful that Johan will leave cycling or the side of Patrick Lefevere
when he retires, so Boonen will have the Old Lion around for help...
I think Boonen's biggest mistake is just going a year too quickly, but Go he should. Postal is now, and will be for a year or two, a team that plays around at things (strongly, but playing) other than the Tour De France.
It's just a shame that George H. didn't go with Boonen. He is a super supporter of Lance, but would do well to leave postal if he wants a true chance at the classics. I would love to see if George is more than a monster supporter, as he gets so close but seems to fail repeatedly to have that little something at the end. Weather or not it's a lack of support, or a lack of talent will remain a mystery at US postal.
Charles Manantan
Phoenix AZ.
Thursday, December 5, 2002
Tom Boonen #4
"USPS is one of the stronger classic teams, and their DSes are some of the best classics directors of our generation."
Could we slow down this mail truck for a second? Thank you.
I am looking at the podiums from all of the Classics for the past few years and there are not many times the USPS team turns up on the stairs that matter. I see 2 Amstels (Lance), a Ghent (George) and a Zurich (Lance). Now lets look at the competition. (The 2 men mentioned.) Johan makes the list the Top Step 11 times. (That's just the top step) Patrick Lefevere sees the podium as a director no fewer than 30 (without Museeuw's First Place results even being added in!) Not to say that Demol and Bruyneel aren't talented, but based on results, they haven't taken their World Cup training wheels off quite yet. You wanna go to Tour school? Talk to Lance and Co. You wanna learn how to ride the Classics? Patrick and Johann are a pretty safe bet to make you a better rider. Take Freddy Rodriguez. He didn't learn how to have a more successful spring classics season at USPS. He learned with Johann and Patrick. He's had 2/3's of the podium results in one year that USPS took 3 to garner.
Young riders learn from their mistakes. This could be the best thing, or the worst thing, to happen to this talented, still maturing rider. Boonen's getting a lot of flack. Cut the boy some slack and wait to say I told ya so. He said himself that he has been training with guys like Ludo D. for years and that his result at Roubaix was as much of a surprise to him as anyone.
Rusty Elder
Long Beach, CA. US
Thursday, December 5, 2002
PS - I know we could go back to the Motorola Years and find a San Sebastian and a Liege Podium sprinkled in there too.
Tom Boonen #5
I don't approve of what Boonen did to USPS (although I think he did the right thing careerwise), but I think Bruyneel should shut his pie hole since he helped Roberto Heras do the same thing to Kelme. "Cast a stone all who have not sinned"...or so they say.
I guess Johann believes in karma now. Let Boonen go, and wish him luck.
Paolo Raymond M. Tiangco
Makati City, Philippines
Wednesday, December 11, 2002
Tom Boonen #6
Boonen is getting to ride with THE best classic rider of this generation. Johan Museeuw may retire in May, but at the end of the Classics season. In my view, Tom Boonen has made the best decision of his life to ride at Quick Step. Imagine you are a young American who finishes third in his first major tour, riding for a Belgian team. Would you not wish to ride with Armstrong in Postal in his final retirement year, or his final Tour de France? Let's also not forget Levis' decision to leave Postal for Rabobank. Pro cycling above all else is a business, and his move to Quick Step is a sound business decision. He is Belgian, he's the team's future, and he is riding and learning from the greatest. I saw his ride in this year's Paris Roubaix, and he has a class of his own, and he finished in the top of most classics, not 'being lucky in one race'. George has yet to finish as well as Tom in Roubaix, and we often wonder how well he would have ridden in a team which focused on the classics instead, as much as Domo or Mapei did.
Rajvinder Singh
Singapore
Saturday, December 7, 2002
T-Mobile
Regarding USA Cycling's partnership with the T-Mobile women's trade team, I'd like to answer Kimberly Bruckner's question "Who are these critics?" Well, I happen to be one of them, and this is why.....
USA Cycling should be focusing on developing young women to make the next step, but instead is throwing its resources into the T-Mobile program.
According to Jim Miller, it's an innovative partnership; he even cites examples of other countries doing the same to great effect. However, there's a big difference between T-Mobile and the teams fielded by the AIS and BCF.
The British team includes four riders age 26 or under, while the AIS team is practically in swaddling clothes, with at least five women age 26 or under.
They send these young riders to the world's toughest races, and they're benefiting from the resources of their respective national organizations.
T-Mobile, by contrast, includes exactly one rider age 26 or under- track specialist Sarah Hammer, who somehow seems unlikely to be doing the Tour or Fleche Wallonne with the rest of the team. There's talk of a 'T-Mobile National' team, that will 'deputize' some up-and-comers for some NRC events; however, there are numerous flaws to that approach. Assuming that T-Mobile sends its 'A-team' to the biggest US races, what does that leave for the 'National' riders? Given the criterium-heavy format of the NRC, probably not much. And it also sticks those riders with other problems, not the least of which is trying to balance opportunities with the T-Mobile 'National' team with commitments to their everyday sponsors (if they're lucky enough to have them).
What it comes down to is this: USA Cycling has, in theory anyway, a commitment to develop promising young men and women. Under-23 men have the USPS Under-23 squad.....but what do under-23 women have? No amount of PR is going to make T-Mobile the 'developmental' team USA Cycling has cast it as- not with an average rider age of over 30. And, in the meantime, kids like Allison Beall ('02 U23 National TT winner), Ashley Kimmet ('02 U23 National Pursuit winner), Magen Long ('02 Junior National RR/TT winner), and Rebecca McClintock (multiple medalist at U23 & Collegiate Nats in '02) will be ignored, while USA Cycling helps 'develop' a group of thirty-somethings.
Sorry if this sounds harsh, because it's not meant that way. As a trade team, T-Mobile has plenty of talented and personable riders, and I wish them nothing but the best. And it's great that T-Mobile is supporting women's racing in such a big way. But USA Cycling needs to at least call a spade a spade.
Bud Schuchert
Philadelphia, PA
Friday, December 6, 2002
'Cross in the USA #1
As a cross promoter, I am not surprised at the letter written in by Isaac. My club, (Hampton Velo Club) promotes a 6 race series, and also hosted the NYS champs this year.
In 2002 we made the decision to up our entry fees to $20 per race, $10 for the second race of the day, from last years price of 15$.
This was done for one reason. To make our club some money. My VP and I actually figured out that we could make MORE money by staying at work on Sunday, and giving the club our paychecks. A fairly pathetic notion, but as races are more fun than work, the show went on. This doesn't even include the time we spend setting up course, taking it down, modifications, improvements, RESULTS/auditing at the end of the day, posting them online... Just time spent racing. All of the other stuff is done largely by our core volunteer staff.
Simply put, promoters like us bust our butts to make these races happen, and we deserve to make a few bucks for our clubs. AND it's all there in black and white. All event flyers have to post entry fees on them. If you think it's too much cash, don't race.
By the way, we always have bagels, coffee, cocoa, and sometimes chilli and eggs for everyone.
Myles Romanow
President Hampton Velo Club. www.hamptonvelo.com
Friday, December 6, 2002
'Cross in the USA #2
Mr. Lucia is right. If you want a cheaper race then do the B, C, or Master's Race. Call me what you will, but I still find the entry fee to be too much. It is lame that the categories providing the structural base of the sport don't get more than merchandise or money 5 deep while the elite fields get a prize list that is almost 100% more than what we generate in entry fees. (Yes, I am an "elite" rider who is not very good)
For example:
Based on the budget provided by Mr. Lucia $4500 is collected through entry fees. I assume that some of that goes towards the $3500 prize list because the sponsorship money is $1750. If a men's B field has 60 riders they would generate 20% of the total entry fee budget at $15 bucks a piece. Their prize list: merchandise. If an elite men's field has 40 riders they would generate 22% of the total entry fee budget at $25 bucks a piece. Their prize list: $2,000 in cash.
I agree with Mr. Lucia that the "elite race is just that - an elite race", but I don't agree with him that "they have entry fees commensurate to their prize list." It costs $15 bucks to compete for merchandise?
Yes, the UCI requires a certain prize list, but what does that do to help grow the sport? Does a $3500 dollar prize list get many local 12-16 year old couch potatoes out on their bikes checking out our sport? Has Bart Wellens, Mario de Clerq, or any other European come over and challenged Gullickson's iron grasp on the Verge Series? No. In fact U.S. rider Jonathan Page one of the most talented all-rounders in the U.S. is spending the majority of his season in Belgium and sacrificing "easy" money/UCI points to race there.
Maybe cheaper, more hospitable races with food and t-shirts for all racers would grow the structural base (c men, women's fields, and juniors). This effect would potentially bring in more families and friends to watch the racing, which in turn would make selling the sport to sponsors an easier task and help make the racing cheaper for the general public who do not have a lot of disposable income.
Isaac St. Martin
Friday, December 6, 2002
'Cross in the USA #3
If you want to help keep the costs down, and maybe have a race you enjoyed next year; Volunteer. To be honest, most of the riders I meet and talk with are appreciative of all the time and effort that goes into putting on races. There will always be some that have complaints, they are the ones who complain about everything else also. If you think the entry fee is high, contact the promoter and offer a couple hours of labor in exchange for your entry fee. They'll probably take you up on it, and you'll feel good for having helped your fellow racers. Take the time to help out, and find out just what it takes to put on a good race from planning to medals. I think you would gain appreciation of those guys everyone complains about. I know that there is no way I would have the patience, political skills, tolerance for BS, and contacts to put on a race. You will find me at about a half dozen events a year helping out wherever I can. Come help too.
Bill Crowther
Friday, December 6, 2002
Graeme Miller #1
I just read your article on Graeme Miller's injury and subsequent career end and I was moved. Although we were never the best of friends, it has always been a pleasure racing against/with Graeme. He was ferociously competitive and I had the pleasure of fighting for a wheel with him on many an occasion, some of these incidents went on for 10 miles until one of us nearly crashed or just gave up, it was always a test of will and I appreciated it in some twisted way. It is sad to know that Graeme will be gone and even though he is the most hard headed person I have ever met, he will be missed.
[We passed along Eddy's message to Graeme and when Graeme responded, Eddy sent this, which we use here with his permission - Ed]
Graeme, well, where do I start? I guess by saying that I was sorry to hear that you would be ending your career and that you have had a rough time lately, but being as stubborn as a mule, I am sure that it won't get the best of you. I can safely say this without you thinking that I am trying to get on your good side, because I have nothing to gain now, you have no reason to think that the next time we were fighting for a wheel on the final lap of some insignificant race, that I am trying to win your favor so you might be a nice guy and give it to me without trying to kill me. I have nothing to gain, these words are sincere.
I think there have been occasions when I wanted to say that I enjoyed your competitive style, that I actually looked up to you and always felt that you were one of those guys who had a fighting streak in them that definitely surpassed my own. Graeme, it was great racing with you, that is what I am trying to say. And I know that many times, once a rider has ended his career he soon falls to side of many people's minds, that who he was is too soon forgotten, but this won't be the case with you. I'll not forget your sorry, stubborn like a mule ass for a long time. I only wish I could have bought you that beer, could have forgotten all that happened on the road and just taken a few minutes to get to know who that fucker, who keeps trying to steal my wheel, was as a person, not just a cyclist, but who he really is.
Anyway, without trying to be too sentimental, it was always interesting going into the final lap when I knew that you were just off my right shoulder, or if you had the best spot for the finish and I wanted that spot. Take care of yourself and I am sure that whatever you choose to do you will take that fucking bull by the horns and will be the best that you can possibly be.
Good luck with everything Graeme, and I mean that. If you are ever in Colorado you are welcome to pay a visit, we have an extra bed.
Eddy Gragus
Colorado, USA
Sunday, December 8, 2002
Graeme Miller #2
As I grew up in Junior cycling here in the Northeast United States in the late 1980's; I was amazed week in and week out with the "KIWI BRAWLER". He raced with a well respected American professional team called IME w/ other well known racers; Paul McCormack, Frank McCormack, Mark McCormack to name a few.
Graeme was simply awesome to watch and I will miss seeing him in the results pages. The KIWI should be proud of his accomplishments.
I wish Graeme well. Good luck.
PJ Moore
USA
Sunday, December 8, 2002
Why Lance will win his 5th Tour
Today CN.com shows us all yet another reason why Lance Armstrong is the best cyclist in the world and why he will (barring illness or injury) win his fifth consecutive Tour this July. Many riders in the pro peloton have incredible natural ability. Many riders also have a tremendous work ethic.
But it is the rare rider indeed who has both.
What's Lance up to lately? Here's a nice shot of him winning a Texas MTB Bike/run Duathlon.
I wonder what Jan Ullrich, Gibi Simoni and Aitor Gonzalez are doing and how they are going fitness wise as of the 11th of December.
Scott Goldstein
Wednesday, December 11, 2002
The need for supplements
The article on supplements was very well written. Unfortunately the picture of the "Git HUGE can" transmits the wrong impression of the kinds of supplements a pro cyclist uses. My 20 cents:
Mr. Riggs and many other readers have written that supplements aren't necessary and regular foods have all you need. However, scientists have found that due to overfarming of the land, today's vegetables don't contain the same nutrients that they did 75 years ago. Most importantly, professional cyclists live a lifestyle that makes it very difficult to eat well. For more than half the year, we don't have our own kitchens, pantries, and Whole Foods markets. When the only option on the road is Arbys, KFC, or McD's, then a meal replacement shake (a supplement!) becomes a necessity.
During stage races or intensive training, it is very hard to stand on one's own feet cooking a big meal after a 5 hour ride. You need to get nutritious calories in your body while your glycogen window is still open, so supplemental foods are taken in the first hour after the ride. This is the life of a professional cyclist today. If you tried to do it on the eating habits of 30 years ago, you would be at a severe disadvantage to all the other athletes who are utilizing the advice of sports medicine & nutrition. Mr. Riggs goes on to say he would be calling the team doctor about anything he would be taking. Since so much of our food comes prepackaged today, that would be a lot of phone calls to someone who doesn't exist for most US pro teams who don't employ a team doctor.
Mr. Kunich believes that because riders eat more, they have an easier time securing the needed vitamins and minerals. His logic is faulty, because riders may consume more food but they also have a much higher demand for vitamins and minerals than the average person. It is precisely when you are having to eat so much that your body's overtaxed digestive system is least able to extract all the necessary fuel from normal food.
In response to Francis Kelsey's comment, I want to point out that Scott's use of the tainted product was not a matter of taking a "new" supplement. His usual brand was out of stock and he chose one that claimed to have the same ingredients. Like others, I am behind Scott in his pursuit of the manufacturer. Unfortunately he has already spent thousands and at some point he may not be able to go further with it.
John Lieswyn, 17 years full time racing and 7 seasons professional...
USA
Thursday, December 5, 2002
Scott Moninger
Matthew Charles Riggs tells us that he is a clean rider that takes no supplements other than a vitamin pill. Sorry Mr. Riggs but that may contain banned substances as well.
As has been pointed out, it is nearly impossible to know exactly what you are putting in your body. Even some foodstuffs can contain unexpected and unlabeled components that would make you test positive in the sorts of tests that they can run today. That "herbal tea" you drank in the coffee shop might have some herbs that contain ephedrine. Other's might contain precursors for various steroids that would cause you to test positive.
Drug testing is not a simple thing.
The really unfortunate thing is that people most likely to get caught in the drug hysteria are those who have accidentally ingested such substances.
Those who are purposely using performance enhancing drugs know the tricks for avoiding detection.
Tom Kunich
Thursday, December 5, 2002
Cipo and Pantani
Just wondering about Cipollini teaming up with Pantani. Maybe Cipollini has no one in his camp who can talk sense to him. Like Bob Dylan; no one tells him that the volume on his electric guitar drowns out his sidemen who can actually play.
What reason could Cipo have for joining up with Pantani, other than friendship that is? Pantani must be his best friend in the world. I suppose Cipo is so secure with his amazing talent that he thinks he needn't concern himself with the small print.
One thing may be that Pantani is apparently still very popular in Italy, so Cipo doesn't see a downside there. It is pretty clear that Pantani is in denial about his recent lack of form, whatever the cause. So, will there be two squads, one a cocoon for Pantani, the other Cipo's train? Can both purposes be accomplished with one squad? Will Pantani just abandon early so as not to drag down Cipo's chances? If so, what's the point?
I can't recall ever hearing any doping rumors about Cipollini, so he may feel he can't be tainted. Mercatone had some success when Pantani wasn't being nursed along, so the combination, aside from Pantani, could be okay.
Just doesn't seem to make much sense.
Russell Burnett
Decatur, Georgia, USA
Thursday, December 12, 2002
Velodrome certification
Just a quick note regarding velodrome certification. [Arising from this letter about an unofficial world record - Ed] The UCI doesn't go looking for velodromes to certify. A request for certification is usually made by the National Federation. This includes a lengthy form describing the geometries of the track, materials, designer, contractor, etc. The UCI in turn, appoints someone to oversee a certification process (at the expense of the applicant), who then watches engineers proceed through a process of measurement and calculation. Besides actual measurement, there are certain minimums of width, markings and relationship of bankings and straight-aways for speeds as well as safety zones at the bottom. Any one of those items could nullify the certification. A test event of newly constructed velodromes is also required. If all of that isn't enough, any remodel of the facility requires recertification. A costly process the San Salvadoran federation will probably not undertake soon.
The track for the 1996 Atlanta Olympics was certified only after they increased the width of the safety zone at the bottom of the track. This was accomplished with modular retaining wall systems and planting more grass around the perimeter and at the tunnel, adding heavy foam pads. Of course for this type of event, certification goes far beyond mathematics and includes a fair amount of political appeasement as well.
Randy Shafer
Colorado Springs, CO, USA
Thursday, December 5, 2002
Asian races
Again, in response to another of Mr. Negela's assertions that there is little to be concerned about while traveling in that part of the world, I would want to post the Travel Advisory from the US State department concerning Travel for "Westerners" there. With the thought fresh in my mind that a few hundred People died in that part of the world recently (a lot were Australian), I doubt it was a water buffalo that was responsible.
But, note that I post this as someone who is preparing a trip there in great anticipation of wonderful people and spectacular country! (as well as a free place to stay...)
From US State department Travel advisory located at: http://travel.state.gov/malaysia.html:
SAFETY AND SECURITY: The Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), a terrorist group based in the southern Philippines, has kidnapped tourists from resort islands off the eastern coast of Sabah. U.S. citizens are urged to use extreme caution when traveling in the coastal region and islands of eastern Sabah. Americans planning to travel to that region are encouraged to call the U.S. Embassy in Kuala Lumpur before departure. On October 23, 2002, the United States Government designated the Jemaah Islamiya (JI) organization a Foreign Terrorist Organization.
JI is an extremist group linked to al-Qaida, other regional terrorist groups, and previous terrorist attacks in the region, with cells operating throughout Southeast Asia. Since mid-2001, Malaysian authorities have arrested over 70 JI members. In the aftermath of the October 2002 terrorist bombings in Bali, Indonesia, the State Department is concerned that similar attacks may occur in other Southeast Asian nations, including Malaysia. JI and other extremist groups present in Southeast Asia have demonstrated transitional capabilities to carry out attacks against locations where Westerners congregate.
Terrorist groups do not distinguish between official and civilian targets.
I would imagine that terrorists don't distinguish between Cyclists and non Cyclists either, and remembering Mr. Negela's initial criticism of US teams not taking part in TDL, I still don't find it cowardly that US Professional teams decided against participation in an activity that is impossible to secure. While I don't feel much threat as an individual, I would maintain that an unsecured Western Professional Sports team make a more attractive target than most.
Charles Manantan
Arizona USA
Thursday, December 5, 2002
Gene doping
Regarding David Glyer's comments about breeding. While it is true that changes in bloodlines in animals such as horses have occurred through many decades of careful breeding, it is also true that modern genetic engineering can accomplish major genetic, and therefore phenotypic, differences from one generation to the next. Genes can be isolated from one organism and engineered into the genome of another. One example is rice that produces beta-carotene, a vitamin endogenous to carrots. Similarly, genes within an organism can be modified to enhance or suppress the function of the protein coded. What if minor modifications in a gene coding for a hemoglobin subunit enhanced the rate at which oxygen could be delivered to tissue? Could a human genome be "engineered" to code for this improved protein? Given the direction technology is headed this would certainly be possible some day as mice and other mammals have already been "engineered" by having genes inserted, modified or deleted.
James Snook
San Diego, CA, USA
Thursday, December 5, 2002
Robbie McEwen
While I appreciate the superhuman strengths and achievements of Mr. McEwen throughout the 2002 season, can you please pass on my personal request to have this man take a break! How can someone race from January through the entire year and then start all over again with the Tour Down Under. My helmet's off to this star.
Mitch Gold
Portland, OR
Wednesday, December 11, 2002
The media in cycling #1
While I don't see this as a "black or white" issue, it is important to point out that most professional cycling teams are funded by sponsors who expect to receive exposure through the media (as opposed to professionals paid by a team which lives off ticket sales). So, in that sense at least, professional cycling would be nothing without the media. Most companies would not willingly sponsor a team if they thought the only people who would see their name on the jerseys were road-side spectators (even for an event like the Tour de France, media exposure far outweighs rode-side spectators). This exposure happens through "traditional" media, as well as through the web and other outlets.
Duncan M. Granger, MS
Lancaster, PA USA
Friday, December 6, 2002
The media in cycling #2
Martin, you miss Rupert Guinness' point about the media's association with cycling entirely. Yes, cyclists create the stories which the media write about. And yes, there are ways and means beyond the "mainstream media" for cycling news to filter around the world. But is a sponsor going to support a sport because a bunch of internet users strike up a conversation on a chatline? I doubt it.
Rupert Guinness is simply stating the reality of the sponsorship investment needing media coverage -- not cycling needing interested parties to comment on what they've seen or heard on a chatline.
If France Television didn't support the sport's biggest event, the Tour de France, the race would struggle to survive -- and no amount of fan-based support would change that. Being a fan is well and good, but Rupert's comment that "without the media, cycling is nothing" is far from nonsense.
I've heard it said that cycling's biggest enemy are all the people involved who consider themselves to be the pivotal figure. At a race, the cyclists, the media, the promoters, the sponsors, the fans, etc all like to think that without them, the event is going to struggle. That's true, but why is it that the reality of cooperation seems like a notion that's beyond the egos of all those groups?
Martin, Rupert was trying to get a discussion going on the involvement in the media, and you've said his opinion is nonsense. No, it's an opinion. Just as you have yours -- and, like Rupert, are totally entitled to it. Doesn't make you more correct than Rupert.
Relax. Watch the sport you love by whatever means you can find. And appreciate that we all have some association with a sport that, in certain parts of the world, struggles to find a place in the mainstream media.
Rob Arnold
Publisher, RIDE Cycling Review
Saturday, December 7, 2002
Back surgery #1
I had back surgery in 1998, have recovered 100% and resumed athletics. If the surgery is well done running is not out of the question, let alone cycling. I'm a competitive duathlete and my back has never been a delimiting factor. Find a sports orthopedist who also does backs.
Raymond F. Martin
USA
Friday, December 6, 2002
Back surgery #2
I am 55 years old. I had back surgery back in the dark ages -- 1978. Fused L3 - L4 plus some other stuff. They used chisels for the fusion and it took me six months to recover. I ran my fourth NYC marathon (4 hours) about 4 years ago and regularly bike 9 hours a week (average about 175 watts) for long rides (3 to 4 hours) on weekends.
As long as: 1) my weight stays reasonable (162 lbs 5' 11"), 2) I do lower back exercises and 3) stretch, I have no problems. No stretch, flabby back muscles, 15 lb weight gain = low level pain which increases until I stretch and start to lose weight. From what I have seen of today's back surgeries, you should be able to recover a lot quicker. Also, assuming your back surgery was injury versus genetically related, you should be able to bike and run for a long time.
Harry Pugh
Friday, December 6, 2002
Climbers vs sprinters
Sammy Johnson is comparing apples and oranges. If you look at "pure" climbers, they can't time trial either. The people who do well in the TDF are well "rounded" athletes. They are neither pure sprinters, pure climbers... OR pure Time trialers. But they excel in all 3 areas.
Sprinters have their own unique make-up. If it were, to quote you, "not as taxing" then climbers would be able to do it! But they can't, because their bodies cannot take that kind of abuse. Neither can the sprinters take the kind of abuse hard climbs can dish out.
Cassandra P. White
Greenfield, NH
Thursday, December 5, 2002
Training in Spain
Greetings to Cyclingnews' Spanish readership. I am an American student and aspiring professional bike racer from North Carolina, USA. I will be attending a total immersion Spanish language school in Seville from January 6th until March 2nd 2003. I'm very interested in any information that I could obtain from someone in that area regarding ride routes, group rides, and training races in the region of Seville. I am a category one racer holding an international UCI license. I think the equivalent classification in Spain is known as "elite without contract" or something to that effect.
I am hoping to get as much information as possible before departing so that
I will have a good idea of where to ride from my very first day in Spain. I
am primarily interested in routes of 80-200km, as well as shorter loops near
the city that I may use for recovery and morning rides. I plan to ride daily
and I'm quite interested in doing the longest and most difficult rides in the
area.
One other consideration…I still have a bit of time that I may change my reservation;
the school also has branches in Malaga, Alicante, and Salamanca. If one of these
cities would be a better choice for training during this time, due to weather,
better routes, and/or a larger pool of strong local riders, I may be able to
transfer to one of those areas.
My Spanish verbal comprehension is a bit weak at the moment, but I can read and write Spanish with fair proficiency. If any Cyclingnews readers (English or Spanish) have a suggestion of a Spanish-language website where I could post a query similar to this one (I have a Spanish version written as well), that would certainly be appreciated.
Chad Gibson
Greensboro, NC 27403 USA
Thursday, December 5, 2002
Brooklyn Cycling Club
Hi, I was hoping that someone could help me get some information on the old Brooklyn Cycling Club team. Where, why, and how did it start, how long did it last, etc.
Jon
Monday, December 9, 2002
Recent letters pages
- December 5 - 'Cross in the USA, Tainted supplements, Tom Boonen, The media in cycling, Scott Moninger, Back surgery, EPO, Climbers versus sprinters, Cows biggest threat to overseas riders in Asian races, Nancy L. Contreras Reyes 33.605s, Original Tour du Pont, Peugeot Jerseys, Stolen bike
- November 29 - Scott Moninger, Climbers vs Sprinters, Atrial fibrillation, EPO, 'Cross in the USA, Back surgery, Keirin, The media in cycling, Tom Boonen, Tyler Hamilton, Original Tour du Pont, Doping
- November 21 - Robbie McEwen & the media, Tom Boonen, Bas Van Dooren, Cyclo-cross USA, DynEPO, John Lieswyn's Diaries, Saeco and Cannondale, TdF 2003, Atrial fibrillation, Cyclo-Sportifs, Joseba Beloki, NSWIS-FDJeux.com, Tyler Hamilton, Cipo, 'Ferrari' people mover
- November 18 - Bas Van Dooren, Tom Boonen, Cyclo-cross USA, Atrial Fibrillation among the pros, Cipo, TdF 2003, DynEPO, Saeco and Cannondale, Living in Europe, Soren Lilholt, VDB, Where's Tom Leaper?, Cyclo-Sportifs, Amstel Gold Race
- November 8 - Botero's contract, Atrial Fibrillation among the pros?, Tour de France 2003 Presentation & Sean Kelly's jersey, TdF 2003, What about Tyler?, Graeme Obree film, Horner/Trenti, Jan Ullrich, Amstel Gold Race, Big Mat/Gitane, Boxless bicycling, Cipo, VDB, Living in Europe, Lisa Mathison, Mass start event safety issues, Podium Boyz Pic, Raul Alcala, Shaving, 19th Century 24 hour racing
- October 31 - A House Divided..., Robbie McEwen, Botero, Real inclines, Lance's seat post, Chris Horner, Cipo, Namibia, Numb data, Pics of Bauer's chopper, Shaving, What about Tyler?, Jan Ullrich, Jan Ullrich's knee pads, Women's race length
- October 25 - Robbie McEwen defends himself, Cipo, The Worlds Sprint, Chris Horner, Cipo and Pantani, Tour selection, Namibia, I had that Brad McGee in my store once, What about Tyler?, Botero, Lance in good company, Lance's seat post, Numbed by the data, Real inclines, World Masters Games in Oz, Young champions, Shaving
- October 18 - The World's, What is up with Robbie McEwen?, Cipo and Pantani, Botero, Lieswyn and Australian races, Namibia?, Numbed by the data, Shaving, Tour de France, Only in Cycling..., World Masters Games, Youngest world pro champion?, What A Goose
- October 11 - Why Botero is a Champion, It Could Only Happen in Cycling!, UCI change, Climbing Weight, Delgado, Language, Lieswyn and Australian races, Shaving, Univest GP, Triple Bypass Ride, Around Oz racing
- October 4 - Univest GP, Vicente Belda, Kelme, the little team?, Pedro Delgado is nuts, Aussie track team, Box or not?, Climbing weight, Guido Trenti, John Lieswyn, Regularity, Triple Bypass Ride, ag2r, Advice on shaving
- Letters Index – The complete index to every letters page on cyclingnews.com
