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Tales from the Peloton
Trek/VW Midwest regional road team spring camp
Spring camps aren't just for the big guns of full pro teams - Trek/VW's regional squads get together for some team-building road miles, too - and plump for the character-building conditions of Spring in Wissconsin, as John Munhall tells.
Let's Do This Thang! - Friday March 21, 2003
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March weather in Wisconsin is about as stable as today's stock market. But dividends pay off big this weekend for the Trek Midwest regional road team. We cashed in on some fresh air and a well-needed retreat to round things off before the season really gets going here in a few short weeks.
The Team car and Trek Bicycle Store of Madison van was unloaded with weekend goods. Team riders arrive early from all compass points of the region to get a nice matinee ride in before being greeted by some tasty diggings prepared by team manager and cuisine king Keith Meyer. Keith did not want his riders complaining about running out of gas during the next two full days of riding.
Shortly after the last burrito was shovelled in, it was down to business.
The remainder of the evening was spend covering our Midwest region schedule, seasonal objectives, training updates, distributing and fitting additional equipment and clothing. Everyone's expectations were blown away by the quality of products and commitment that our sponsors made possible. Especially our new junior rider Ulric (rabbit) De Young.
Of course the round table discussions provided some fun impromptu banter that gave solid merit to the camaraderie of this group. This crew is not shy on laughter.
Revoli and Roll out. - Saturday March 22, 2003
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There was no need to bang garbage cans and sound horns this morning. Everyone was amped to quickly get their snack on and suited up for a brisk misty morning roll out. In fact the sun was chasing us down the road.
The ride route leader kept the day's course under close wraps as to not disturb the groove. After a brief spin up, it was time to hit the rollers and climb the bluffs. Yes, it is possible to climb in Wisconsin. We all were treated to some of the choice countryside scenery that is so distinctive to this state.
Our first loop this day seemed to click by all too fast as we arrived at the cabins after noon. Not for Keith though, half the day in a car keeping us safe and fuelled with PowerBar food. He needed to stretch out refuel the VW Passat and us. As he laid out tasty deli style buffet for the bunch, the afternoon route was already being prepared.
Time for round two. Warmer air, no fog and clearer skies. This route kept us all very tight and rolling fast. We swept through the rollers and valleys with a bit more structure this time and stuck to some good group riding. Again the daylight passed us by.
It was getting dark. Once more Meyer was at it in the kitchen preparing the digs while everyone cleaned up and got causal for an evening of fun. No TV, no radios, Cell phones, computer etc. Just some good conversations and a blazing campfire.
One more time to the tops - Sunday March 23, 2003
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No fog, warm air and blue skies. This was the morning and the day that erased all doubts that spring was holding out. Everyone agreed the urge to ascend had not been satisfied. Back to the previous day's route we went. A few stops along the way to capture some images of what makes this sport so gratifying. Other than a few charging cows and leash free dogs, the road ahead went by without a hitch or a mechanical.
Before long, we found ourselves back at camp packing up and saying our goodbyes. Already reminiscing and anticipating our next gatherings for community events training, future camps and race days.
Check back often with us at our web page (coming soon) to see how the season unfolds. See you out there! www.
This program would not be possible without the commitment made by the following supporters: Volkswagen, Trek Bikes, Trek Bicycle Store of Madison, WI Bontrager wheels and components, Shimano, Nike cycling shoes Technical and ACG Casual wear, Wrench Force tools and lubes, Sock Guy, Rudy Project, Power Bar, and Trek Optimized Performance Beverage (OPB).
Photos
Images by Trek Bicycle Corp.
- Team photo: Back: Keith Meyer (Manager), Joe Shanahan, Dirk Rettig, Chris Pelto, John Kunert. Front: Ben Anderson, Ulric De Young, John Munhall, Andy Cicero
- Volkswagens can make good Trek bike stands when a well needed stop for lunch occurs during all day training rides!
- Double pace lines before climbing over the bluffs
- There is no reason to stare at the wheel in front of you this day
- Nothing gets the winter cobwebs out better than sunshine and spinning uphill.
