Redding Velo

Redding Velo Time Trial Training Series

Stage II (Wildcat Climb)

Sunday June 15, 2008

Wildcat Time Trial June 15, 2008- The folks who are behind the Redding Velo Time Trial Series have high standards. This was once again evident at the intersection of Wildcat Rd. and Ash Creek Rd., where the second time trial of the series was launched. The course is a lightly traveled section of pavement up Wildcat Rd. to Black Butte Rd, frequently occupied by cattle who manage to skirt around the lengthy rock walls that line the roads. The 5.4 mile climb is not very steep but always has a way of turning purring kitty cats into screaming wildcats!

The first rider off was a zealous California Highway Patrol officer who showed up on his motorcycle to clear the road for the upcoming carnage. Soon to follow at 30 second intervals were racers of all age and ability who came out to celebrate Fathers Day with a quick dose of adrenaline, pain and most of all FUN!

After negotiating the course on a near perfect day for time trialing, the riders dug into their reserves on the last pitch to the finish, where a group had assembled with shouts of encouragement.

The rippers of the day were James Williams and Patrick O’Connell who turned in very respectable times. Rider #438 is quoted “When Williams came by me, I felt like a young Lance Armstrong getting passed by Miguel Indurain in the individual time trial of the 1998 Tour, he was flying, he’s gotta be listening to something illegal on his I-pod”.

Once back down at the starting line, the riders and volunteers were treated to a nice raffle and quick awards ceremony. As the riders headed home for the day, they were already developing their strategy for the Whitmore Time Trial which will be taking place on July 13.

Place      Div/Tot           No.     First name:        Last name:   Age       Sex   City:                       State        Time               Avg.Spd          Gap