Gears Girls - Thanks for a great season!

Thanks to everyone for making this Gears Girls season such a success! I'm so proud of the group and how far everyone has come. In just two years we've become a strong women's road group - we ride well together, we're safe, we have fun...and of course we look great out there on the road. Next year will be even bigger and better!

Lots of great winter training options: Gears offers spin classes 7 days of the week. Buy a trainer or rollers. Run. Swim. Ride your mountain bike in the snow! Before long it will be April 1st and we'll be back out on the road and starting the 2011 Gears Girls season.

Feel free to forward your feedback or comments to me. Also, if you have any questions about cold weather riding or winter training options, I'm more than happy to help with suggestions.

I'm already excited about next year!

Ride with you soon....

Mel

http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com/

Sunday gears girls ride

Hi girls.

Just a reminder that the final gears girls ride leaves from River Oaks Community centre tomorrow at 9am. Distance will be between 85 and 95kms. Check the blog for details: http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com

If I have to cancel the ride due to weather, I'll update the blog by 7:45am.

See you tomorrow!

Mel

Sunday Gears Girls ride - Information

Hi Girls.
 
First off...as many of you already know, tonight's ride (Wednesday) is cancelled. Seems like everyone and their dog is either working or busy so no one is available to ride tonight.   Weather is iffy and not much evening light left (we only got a 30km ride in last night) - so not the end of the world :(
 
For Sunday (September 26th):
 
We'll be riding from River Oak Community Centre at 9am Sunday morning. The community centre is located in Oakville on Sixth Line, just south of Dundas: http://maps.google.ca/maps?q=2400+Sixth+Line%0D%0AOakville,+ON%0D%0AL6H+3N8&oe=UTF-8&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=2400+6+Line,+Oakville,+Halton+Regional+Municipality,+Ontario+L6H+6J9&gl=ca&ei=3k6aTOPNGYvAsAPjoo3HBA&ved=0CBUQ8gEwAA&z=16
 
Park on the south side of the building.
 
The ride will be between about 85kms and 95kms - depending on group interest and time. We'll be riding to Moffat so be sure to bring money for buttertarts and a cold drink. 
 
Drop me a quick line to let me know if you'll be there Sunday!
 
Mel  

http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com/

Check us out!

Several Gears Girls members participated in Tour de Mississauga on Sunday - check us out: http://www.mississaugacycling.ca/cycling-tour-hits-the-city-2412.htm

Gears Girls Update - Week of September 20th

Hi Girls.
 
With the season coming to a close, this will be my last official update for the 2010 Gears Girls season! 
 
TUESDAY/WEDNESDAY NIGHT RIDES:
I had originally announced that September 28th and 29th would be our final week night rides, but with it getting dark at 7:30pm these days (I have been asking around and it seems like it would be difficult for anyone to get to Gears before 6pm),  I think it best that this Wednesday be our final week night ride. So, Tuesday and Wednesday, we'll leave from Gears at 6:15pm and ride until 7:30pm or 7:40pm. If you have lights, please bring them!
 
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 26th:
Our final "official" weekend ride will be this Sunday - September 26th at 9am. Due to poplular demand, I think we'll start the ride at River Oaks Community Centre in Oakville and will ride to Moffat for tarts. We'll come back through Campbellville to add on a bit of extra distance or will ride down to Carlisle and then back. Total distance will be about 90kms. I'll send additional details out about the Sunday ride later this week.
 
SUNDAY RIDES IN OCTOBER, NOVEMBER, DECEMBER:
If anyone is interested in riding Sundays in the upcoming months, let me know and I'll compile a list.
 
END OF SEASON GET TOGETHER:
Also...I would like to do an end of season get together. If we don't ride next week, would people be able to do something Wednesday evening (September 29th) around 7:30pm? I'm thinking Snug Harbour as it's central for most people. Dinner and/or drinks. Let me know if you're interested by the end of this week so that I can make a reservation.
 
Hope to see you out there!
 
Mel
 
PS - Check out the Gears Girls picture in the Mississauga News from this weekends Tour de Mississauga: http://www.mississauga.com/community/article/875503--cycling-tour-hits-city
 
http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com/

Saturday ride cancelled/Tour de Mississauga on Sunday instead

Hi Girls.
 
It appears that only Ann and I are riding tomorrow!!! So, with that in mind, I'm proposing that we cancel the Gears Girls ride tomorrow (not that I don't love you Ann - just seems like everyone else wants to ride Sunday!) and anyone interested ride with the Gears Girls group that has registered to do Tour de Mississauga on Sunday.  I believe the group has registered to do the 100km route - but there are options to turn around if you want to ride a shorter distance.  The event is free - and a great way to see Mississauga! Here's a link to the registration site: http://www.mississaugacycling.ca/tour.  Sorry about the late change of plans for tomorrow morning - seems like Sunday could turn out to be a fun day though!
 
Mel

http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com/

Gears Girls ride tomorrow

Hey Girls.
 
I keep getting emails from people saying they won't be at the ride tomorrow. Will I be riding alone??? I know a number of you are doing the Tour de Mississauga on Sunday so won't necessarily be riding Saturday. Drop me a line to let me know re tomorrow just so I have some numbers and can plan accordingly.
 
Talk to you soon!
 
Mel

http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com/

Gears Girls Update - Week of September 13th

Hi Girls.
 
Hope you all had a great weekend. For the most part, the weather turned out to be perfect - which was awesome because Sue Trainor and I, along with 4 other great women from another cycling club, participated in Ride for Karen. It was a great, well-run, challenging, hilly 100km (or 160km) charity ride that takes you through the likes of Tottenham, Schomberg, Newmarket and Aurora; I urge you all to take part in it next year!
 
The end of the Gears Girls season is fast approaching so let's make the final few rides memorable. The final Tuesday and Wednesday night rides will be September 28th and 29th. We will ride this Saturday as usual.  I'm hoping that we can make the final weekend ride on Sunday, September 26th (rather than Saturday) - are people able to make it out for Sunday rather than Saturday that weekend? Please let me know! (If people are able to ride on Sunday, September 26th, I would like to propose another trip to Moffat - we would start at River Oaks Community Centre and venture home through Campbellville...probably another 100km route).
 
Remember that Tuesday and Wednesday night rides will leave from Gears promptly at 6:15pm. Please don't be late as we only have very limited amounts of light in the evening. If you have lights (flashing red in the back, white in the front) please bring them with for the weeknight rides.
 
Provided the weather is better this Saturday (September 18th) we'll try for another 100km ride to Campbellville.
 
This Saturday's ride will leave from Gears at 9am. If people are interested we can grab a bite to eat after the ride at Sunset Grill.
 
A couple people have said they were interested in doing Share the Road/Greg's Ride (http://www.sharetheroad.ca/) this coming Sunday (September 19th).  Also taking place on the 19th is Tour de Mississauga (http://www.mississaugacycling.ca/tour) - a free event that offers both a 60km and a 100km option. If you're interested in participating in either event, please let me know and I'll forward your name on to others who may also want to do it.
 
See you all out there!
 
Mel

http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com/

Sorry!

Hi girls.

I have to apologize for canceling the ride tonight. At the time, the weather was awful, sky was dark and the wind was terrible. Now it's sunny and nice!

Alas, I guess I should have waited.

Hope some of you got out for a ride regardless of the weather.

Mel

GG ride cancelled tonight

Hi girls.

Sorry about the short notice but the weather had taken a turn for the worse and it looks like a storm is settling in. Several people have already emailed to say they weren't riding tonight because of the weather. So, with that in mind, I think I'll be proactive and cancel the ride. Hopefully it rains so I don't look like a loser!

See you on Saturday!

Mel

Gears Girls Update - Week of September 6, 2010

Hi Girls.
 
Hope you all had a great long weekend and got some good riding in! Here's the update for this week:
 
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 7TH, 2010 - Meet at Gears for 6pm, ride at 6:15pm
We only have a couple more weeks of evening light left so try to come out before the end of the month! Meet at Gears for 6pm, ride at 6:15pm. NB: this will be the only evening ride this week. If you normally ride Wednesdays, feel free to come out for the Tuesday ride.
 
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8TH, 2010 - RIDE CANCELLED
Sorry girls, no Wednesday ride this week! If you can ride Tuesday, feel free to join us - otherwise, we'll see you next Wednesday!
 
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 11TH, 2010 - Meet at Gears for 8:45am, ride at 9am
Depending on the group and interest levels, we can do another ride to Campbellville - about 100kms total. Options to turn back early at 50kms too. Drop me a quick line so I have an idea about who will be there Saturday and what distance everyone is hoping to do.
 
Hope to see you tomorrow night!
 
Mel


http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com/

Saturday gears girls ride cancelled

Well - it's officially raining and it's calling for rain most of the morning. So I think it's best we cancel today's ride. Sorry girls - looks like tomorrow and Monday may offer better weather for riding!

Enjoy the long weekend! Rain and all :)

Mel

Gears Girls Update/2011 Touring Group Ideas

Hi Girls.
 
Another great week of riding! A couple of you have asked for the route map for the ride we did on Saturday, so here you go: http://www.mapmyride.com/route//on/mississauga/463128321648140263.
 
TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY NIGHT RIDES:
I know that last week I announced that our Tuesday night rides would end this week, but due to popular demand...and because both nights were so well received...I've decided to continue on with BOTH the Tuesday and the Wednesday night rides through to the end of September. Starting tomorrow, Tuesday and Wednesday night rides will leave Gears at 6:15pm sharp. We only have limited light available in the evening, so it's important we leave by 6:15pm in order to get in a decent ride. Please note the change in time from 6:30pm to 6:15pm!
 
SATURDAY RIDE:
This Saturday we will do a route similar to the one we did this weekend - 100kms from Gears to Campbellville, with an option to turn earlier and do a 50km ride. As this is a long weekend and many people are out of town, please let me know if you plan on riding so that I have an idea about numbers. We'll leave from Gears at 9am as usual.
 
TOURING PACE GROUP THOUGHTS AND IDEAS:
Looking back over the 2010 season, I'm amazed at how the group has developed and evolved. Turnout to all rides has been impressive as have the levels of improvement of both the individual rider and the group as a whole. We have become a true road group!
 
I do also realize that not all of the club members are comfortable with the "group riding" mantra. Drafting, single and double pacelines, higher speeds, tighter packs, etc. are not necessarily everyone's idea of a good time. A couple members have asked if next year we could add a "touring pace" group to Gears Girls - that would be a group that offers a more relaxed ride style, no drafting or pacelines, less intense pace and distance - but still offering the safety, friendship and educational aspect of Gears Girls. I believe there is definitely a need for a group like this and would be interested in adding a touring group to Gears Girls in 2011.
 
But, the only way we will be able to offer touring pace rides is if we have committed ride leaders able to help out. If you are interested in helping to form a touring group next year, please drop me a line.
 
While it is too late in the season to start adding new groups to the mix, women looking for this type of group can still get in a couple rides before the end of September. Gears Girls member Mary Costa has kindly offered to help coordinate and lead a ride this Wednesday night at 6:15pm. If there's interest, Mary (and anyone else willing to help out) will coordinate several touring pace rides between now and the end of September. Please send an email to gearsgirls@hotmail.com if you're interested in a touring pace ride this Wednesday OR if you're interested in helping out.  In order to make a Touring Pace group possible next year, we will need committed ride leaders!
 
If you have any questions or comments regarding the above information, drop me a line at gearsgirls@hotmail.com.
 
See you on the road!
 
Mel

http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com/

Gears Girls Update for the Week of August 23rd

Hi Girls.
 
Hope you all had a great weekend. I heard the ride on Saturday went well - I'm glad you all survived without me :)
 
This week will mark the end of our Tuesday night rides! Tomorrow (August 24th) will be our final Tuesday night ride. Starting next week, we will only be riding on Wednesday evenings. Wednesday night rides will remain the same pace (the faster of the two nights) as they have been throughout the summer; Tuesday night riders who have been coming out regularly throughout the summer should not have a problem keeping up with the group. Please drop me a quick line and let me know if you will be joining us on Wednesday nights.
 
Saturday, August 28th:
 
I had originally announced that we would be riding from Terra Cotta on Saturday, August 28th. It appears that many people will be out-of-town or unable to ride next weekend, so I think we will postpone the Terra Cotta ride to September. The Saturday ride will now start and end at Gears but we'll still do a 75km to 85km ride. The route will follow the Bike 4 Betty route (which takes us out to the Escarpment) so will offer some good hills and challenges along the way. Please let me know if you'll be riding on Saturday or if you have questions about the route.
 
End of season rides:
 
The final Wednesday night ride will be on Wednesday, September 29th. The final weekend ride will be on Sunday, September 26th (there will be no Saturday ride on the 25th).
 
Let me know if you have any questions!
 
See you all soon!
 
Mel


http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com/

Saturday, August 28th Gears Girls ride from Terra Cotta

Hi Girls.
 
Just a heads up that next Saturday, August 28th we'll be doing a ride in Caledon. My new chum Michele Torres from the Brampton Cycling Club has kindly offered to lead a ride for us in and around the Terra Cotta area.  Distance will be approximately 85kms. Terrain will be hilly and challenging but definitely do-able if you've been riding regularly. Meeting time with be 8:45am, ride at 9am. I'll send out additional start location info next week, but in the interim, here's a map containing the meeting point: http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&ll=43.723956,-79.923756&spn=0.01087,0.027788&t=h&z=16&msid=111934508688109706876.00048e333dabb98a716f3. For most people, it will take about 45 minutes to get there, but I promise it will be well worth the drive!
 
More information to come early next week - just wanted you to mark this ride in your calendar. Drop me a line with any questions or to let me know if you'll be joining us!
 
 
Mel

http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com/

Saturday Gears Girls ride

Hi Girls.
 
As I mentioned in my previous email, I don't currently have anyone that can lead the ride on Saturday. But, rather than cancelling the ride, I'm suggesting that anyone interested in riding meet at Gears for 9am ready to ride. I know that several girls will definitely be there so there should be a decent sized group heading out. If you would like to ride Saturday, let me know and I can put you in touch with the others that have told me they will be riding.
 
Ride safe on Saturday! Try not to miss me too much .
 
Mel

http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com/

Gears Girls Update for the Week of Monday, August 16th

Hi Girls.
 
Great rides this week! I can't believe the improvement in both pace and ability that I've seen over the summer from all the groups. We did 85kms on Saturday at an average pace just over 26km/hr - awesome work to all those who came out! Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday rides have all been social, fun and above all safe. Once again, well done everyone!
 
TUESDAY, AUGUST 17TH AND WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 18TH RIDES:
Tuesday and Wednesday rides will all leave from Gears at 6:30pm both nights. If you have lights, start bringing them as it's getting dark earlier these days. I suspect we'll have to move the start time to 6:15pm soon, but I'll keep you posted re any changes.
 
SATURDAY, AUGUST 21ST:
I'll be out of town on August 21st and I haven't yet been able to find a ride leader for Saturday's ride as many people in the group are also away next weekend. If you are planning on riding Saturday, August 21st please let me know. I don't want to cancel the ride altogether but if there's a group interested in riding I can make an announcement re meeting at Gears for a more casual ride.
 
WEEKNIGHT RIDES STARTING IN SEPTEMBER:
Based on everyone's responses, our final Tuesday night ride will be on Tuesday, August 31st. After that date, we will only be riding Wednesday nights. Rides will leave from Gears at either 6pm or 6:15pm - time to be determined as it gets closer to the date. Wednesday only rides will week of September 6th. 
 
WEEKEND RIDES STARTING IN SEPTEMBER:
Last year, turnout to Saturday rides past Labour Day was very low so I initially said that weekend rides would commence around that time. But, based on this years turnout to date, I think we'll be more successful on weekends. Please let me know if you would like to continue to ride regularly in September/October. Please also let me know if you are able/prefer to ride on Sundays rather than Saturdays - this is just an option I'm considering and will decide based on numbers.
 
Let me know if you have any questions or what your preferences are re the above.
 
See you all on the road!
 
Mel

http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com/

Gears Girls Update for the Week of Monday, August 9th

Hi Girls.
 
Hope you all had a great week! I heard from the ride leaders that all three rides went well...and it looks like the weather was pretty good too. I'm back from vacation - we spent 6 days in New Brunswick and a couple more days around Boston. The trip was supposed to be a cycling trip, but the weather wasn't great and it seemed like I spent more time eating lobster (not such a bad thing mind you) than riding. Alas, there's still plenty of time left to ride this season.
 
Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday rides will go out as usual from Gears at 6:30pm (Tuesday and Wednesday) and 9am (Saturday). Please continue reading as there's important information still to come!
 
Sunday, August 15th - Heart and Stoke Ride in Niagara on the Lake:
 
I've heard from a good number of you that are planning on doing the ride. Here's the website if you want additional details and/or directions: http://secure.heartandstroke.ca/faf/help/helpEventInfo.asp?ievent=428397. We'll do the 60km distance, but if you want to do a further distance, that's great too. There are lots of people out at the event so you certainly won't be riding alone if you would like to do the 100km or 160km routes! You can register day of the event at the door, so don't worry if you haven't signed up yet. We'll ride together as a group so be sure to wear your Gears Girls jerseys :).
 
Let's plan on meeting just outside the clubhouse (you'll be directed there to sign in) at 10:30am. That will give us plenty of time to sign in and get on the road for the 11am start time. Registration is $40 per person. The website says there's a mimimum pledge requirement of $100 - but that's only if you want a t-shirt. Otherwise, anyone can ride provided they pay the $40 fee.
 
Please drop me a quick line to let me know if you'll be joining us on Sunday so I have a better sense of numbers and to know who to expect day of.
 
Weeknight rides in September:
 
Gears Girls weeknight rides were originally going to end just around Labour Day, but because the rides have all been really well attended, I would like to continue to offer a weeknight ride one night a week...at least until it gets too dark and too cold to ride :). We will have to move the rides to an earlier time though to ensure we have enough light to do a decent ride. We'll start with 6:15pm and possibly move the start time to 6pm later on in the month.  If you ride regularly and plan on riding into the Fall, please let me know if you prefer Tuesday night or Wednesday night. Please also let me know if you would be able to make it for either 6pm or 6:15pm. Once I have an idea about what the majority of the group wants to do, I'll let everyone know which night we'll ride on. 
 
Let me know if you have any questions or if you'll be doing the Heart and Stoke ride Sunday!
 
See you all soon.
 
Mel
 

http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com/

Gears Girls update for the week of August 2nd

Hi Girls.
 
I'll be on holidays in St. Andrews, NB (lots of cycling and lobster!) until August 9th so thought I'd send this out in advance of leaving.
 
Remember that there's no Gears Girls ride tomorrow...but if the weather is good I expect that you'll all be out riding!!!
 
In my absence, I've arranged for ride leaders for the various nights and next Saturday so you'll all be well looked after. Here's who will be leading rides in my absence:
 
Tuesday, August 3rd: Sue Trainor
 
Wednesday, August 4th: Ann and Markus Herten
 
Saturday, August 7th: Lisa Heil and Tania Corbeil
 
If, due to rain, snow, sleet, etc., one of the ride leaders needs to cancel the ride, I've asked them to post a message to the blog. So be sure to check there for weather updates.
 
Sunday, August 15th - Heart and Stroke charity ride update
 
I've received quite a few emails about the event and it looks like we'll have a good group for the event. I think we'll stick with the 60km option. You can pre-register or register at the door...which is what I tend to do as I wait to see what the weather is like day of. Will be a fun but challenging ride!
 
Enjoy next week. I'll be back for the Tuesday, August 10th ride.
 
Mel
 
 

http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com/

Gears Girls ride cancelled tonight! Wednesday, July 28th

Hey Girls.
 
Don't know what the weather is like by all of you, but here in Oakville the sky is pretty dark and it's thundering. Looks like it's going to rain any minute. Think it's best to cancel the ride for tonight due to the impending weather. If you do choose to ride, be safe!
 
Remember, there's no ride this Saturday but regular club rides will resume Tuesday.
 
Mel

http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com/

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Special spin class tonight and upcoming charity ride

Hi Girls.
 
For those of you looking to do something other than ride with Gears Girls tonight :), Darren Cooke - spin instructor extraordinaire - will be offering a special 1.5 hour spin class from 6:30pm until 8pm tonight at Gears. If you're interested, best to phone ahead to Gears to book a spot: 905-271-2400.
 
Also - on Sunday, August 15th, the Heart and Stroke will be holding a charity ride in the Niagara-on-the-Lake area (about 45 minutes from Oakville). http://secure.heartandstroke.ca/faf/help/helpEventInfo.asp?ievent=428397&lis=1&kntae428397=28E036DDC75D4CB5BB0D38C13F206811 Distances vary from 30km right up to 160km. Tim and I have done the event the past couple of years and it's quite a fun event.  Some good hills and nice scenery!  Registration is $40 and can be paid at the door or in advance. Past years have been hot and humid day of, so I've opted to do the shorter 60km route...but still a nice ride!
 
Let me know if you're interested in doing the above event and also what distance you would consider (either 60 or 100 would be best). Would be nice to do this event as a group!
 
Mel

http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com/

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Gears Girls weekly update and important club information - please read

Hi Girls.

 

We'll have our regular Tuesday and Wednesday night rides from Gears (at 6:30pm) this week. NB: There will be NO Saturday ride on July 31^st as many members will be out-of-town for the long weekend. We'll resume our regular rides on Tuesday, August 3rd.   Please read on for important information and updates with regards to the Tuesday night rides and the club in general.

 

This weekend marked our 13^th Saturday ride and this week will be our 9^th week of riding. As we're more than half way through the season, I thought it was time to review some important aspects of the club and make a few changes to suit the developing needs of the members.  

 

Let me start by saying that I'm truly impressed by the direction Gears Girls has taken over the past three months.  My goal for the club has always been to develop a strong women's road group; something that is rarely seen on the roads not only in the area, but also the country. My vision has always been to create a true women's road group – one that is safe, efficient, social and always improving.  I think we're definitely heading in the right direction!

 

What makes group riding challenging – and often times unsafe – is when people unfamiliar with the etiquette and skills needed to ride in a single or double paceline join the ride.  I believe this is a challenge with all road groups – it's certainly not limited to Gears Girls. Riding in a paceline takes not only practice but also confidence in both yourself and your fellow rider. 

 

I chose to stop accepting new members last month so the existing members would be able to work and develop together as a road group; I did this to ensure the safety and enjoyment of the group. The women who have been riding together regularly have made huge strides.  Every time I head out on a ride with the club I'm proud of how hard everyone is working.

 

I chose to add a Tuesday night beginner ride because I knew that not all of our members could comfortably ride in a group or maintain a certain pace or ride a certain distance. I'm proud to say that the women that have been regularly attending the Tuesday night rides are, for the most part, no longer beginners and can now hold their own within the larger group! Kudos to you ladies – you've made me proud!

 

I also changed the Saturday rides so that members would have the option to ride various distances at various paces. This has worked extremely well and the women that have been attending the Saturday rides do seem to appreciate and enjoy the options.

 

I feel we're at a pivotal point in the season as members that have not been riding regularly with Gears Girls (or with another road group ) will no longer be able to keep pace or ride comfortably with what was once the beginner group or with any of the Saturday pace groups. I'm surprised that more of our members have not been taking advantage of the beginner nights or the shorter distance, slower-paced Saturday ride groups as they were started expressly for the newer riders or riders struggling with the pace of the Wednesday night rides or with the multi-paced Saturday rides.

 

With the above in mind, I have decided it is best for the group to make the following changes to the club:

 

TUESDAY NIGHT RIDES:

 

Because the majority of women that ride regularly on Tuesday nights are no longer beginners; and because it does not appear that any other beginner riders will be coming out to the rides, Tuesday nights will no longer be considered "beginner rides". The rides will always be a slightly slower version (approx. 25km/hr average) of the Wednesday night rides, but the pace will be dictated by the majority of the group and, unless unsafe to do so, double pace line rules will apply.  We'll still work on skills development, but with the understanding that beginner skills have already been covered – these skills will be more fine tuning than anything else.  

 

WEDNESDAY NIGHT RIDES:

 

Wednesday night rides will continue to be slightly faster and tighter rides. Again, the pace will be dictated by the majority of the group. Unless unsafe to do so, double pace line rules will apply.

 

NO-DROP POLICY:

 

Gears Girls has always had what's referred to as a "no-drop" policy. That is, if someone could not keep up with the group we would either slow the entire group down or someone would break off from the group and would ride with the slower rider. Again, this is something that is challenging for all groups.   While I am certainly not revoking the "no-drop" policy, I believe it must be adjusted to suit the developing needs of the group as a whole. 

 

In fairness to the group, please know your limits and ride within them.  Please know that the group will ride at a pace and distance that is comfortable for the majority of the group. If you choose to attend a ride that is not within your comfort or ability range, please do not expect that the group will slow to your pace or turn around at your preferred location.  

 

The above is not to say that we won't stop for mechanicals; for regrouping in certain locations; for injured or sick riders; etc. What it does mean is that members need to know their limits and ride within them. If you choose to attend a ride and you are unable to maintain the pace of the group or ride the entire distance, you may have to make your way back to the start of the ride on your own.

 

TRAINING OPTIONS:

 

People often ask me how they can become stronger and faster on the bike. The answer is pretty simple - spend more time on your bike.  Time on the bike and consistency is the only way to improve as a cyclist.  Don't worry about things like speed and distance if you're just struggling to put in the time – just get on your bike and ride it. If you're not comfortable riding alone, find friends that ride at a similar or slightly faster pace as you and start riding with them. If you're having trouble keeping up with Gears Girls, there are other cycling options out there that offer more "touring pace rides" such as the Oakville Cycling Club and the Toronto Bicycling Network. If you can't get outside to ride a couple times a week, consider a spin class – Gears Bike Shop offers spin classes 6 days a week.

 

Gears Girls is and always will be an inclusive club; the above adjustments are being made so that the group can ride safely together and so that it can continue developing and improving.

Please let me know if you have any questions or comments regarding the above information.

 

See you on the road!

 

Mel

http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com/

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Saturday Gears Girls Ride

Hi All.
 
Once again they're calling for rain on Saturday. Check your email around 7:30am - if I have to cancel the ride (from Dundas and Walker's Line) I'll send out an email and update the blog by that time. If no email, then the ride is a go.
 
Hope to see you Saturday!
 
Mel

http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com/

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Saturday ride update and reminder

Hi Girls.
 
Just a reminder that the ride this Saturday will be starting at Dundas and Walkers Line. I have only heard from one or two people interested in riding from Gears...so I won't be planning a second ride group to leave from Gears Saturday morning.
 
Details for the Saturday ride are as follows:
 
Based on those riding, the route will be approximately 60kms. The terrain will be hilly and the route challenging although everyone that has told me they will be riding will be able to do the ride. I promise good times will be had by all! For those of you worried that the distance is too short, fret not! There will be ample hills and climbing so you'll be sure to get a good workout. We'll make a stop in Carlisle so bring some money for a cold drink or snack.
 
Ride time will be 9am so plan to meet around 8:45am. Park in the Longo's plaza at the southwest corner of Dundas and Walker's Line in Burlington. Park by the Tim Hortons. Here's a link to a map of the location: http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=2900+Walkers+Line,+Burlington,+Ontario,+Canada&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=48.555061,113.994141&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=2900+Walkers+Line,+Burlington,+Halton+Regional+Municipality,+Ontario+L7M+4M8,+Canada&z=16
 
Depending on what time we finish and how everyone feels, we can head to Sunset Grill after the ride at Dundas and Appleby for brunch/lunch.
 
Let me know if you'll be joining us Saturday morning or drop me a line with questions or concerns.
 
See you then!
 
Mel
 


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Gears Girl update for the week of Monday, July 19th

Hey Girls.

Another great week of riding! Everyone did great on all three rides this week. The group is really riding well together...I'm thrilled with the focus and direction in which the group is heading. Well done ladies!

We'll do our usual Tuesday and Wesnesday rides this week - 6:30 pm from Gears. Both nights rides will be approximately 2.0 hours in duration. As a reminder - if you do not ride regularly with the group or are a new or slower rider, please ride on Tuesday night; the Wednesday night rides are faster and tighter and are not suitable for those unfamiliar or new to group riding. If you're not sure which night is best for you, drop me a quick note and we can chat.

Saturday, July 24th - Saturday ride

I am planning a ride to celebrate the end of the Tour de France. Plan is to meet at Dundas and Walkers in Burlington at 9am and ride from there. The route will be challenging and hilly - I will vary the terrain and route depending on who is there. Distance will also vary (between 65 and 75 km - but quite a lot of hill climbing) depending on who is there. Please drop me a line as soon as possible to let me know if you will be at this ride so that I can adjust the route accordingly.

Also, let me know if you would like to do a shorter, more relaxed ride from Gears Saturday morning. If there is a group of you interested, I can send out an announcement later this week and a group can head out on their own for a ride.

Hope to see lots of you out this week!

Mel

Great ride yesterday girls!

Gears Girls clothing available for purchase

Hi Girls.
 
We just received a shipment of Gears Girls jerseys - same jersey, but a bunch of different sizes are once again available. If you paid your membership fee but did not receive your jersey, you will receive a separate email with instructions about picking it up at Gears.
 
If any of you would like to purchase additional Gears Girls jerseys, you can do so at any point (or at least until we run out). Cost is $110 plus tax. Drop in to Gears anytime to pay and pick up a new jersey!
 
Also...to celebrate the final week of the Tour de France - Gears Girls vests will be available for $60 (regularly $90). A wind vest is definitely something you want to have in your cycling wardrobe for the Spring and Fall - and this one is great because it has 3 rear pockets (something that is often times difficult to find in a vest) and a mesh back. Looks awesome with the complete kit! Sizes and quantity are limited so buy them while you can. The sale price will only be available until Sunday, July 25th.
 
Drop me a line if you have any questions. Otherwise, will see you out on the road looking sharp in your kits :)
 
Mel

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In case of rain tonight!

Hi Girls.

They're calling for thunderstorms and rain starting at about 5pm today. If necessary, I'll cancel the ride tonight - but we'll play it by ear until then.

I'll send out an email and update the blog by 5:30pm if the ride is cancelled.

If you're not working today I might suggest getting your ride in this morning....just in case :)

Fingers crossed for good weather tonight.

Mel

http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com

Gears Girls Update for the Week of Monday, July 12th

Hi Girls.
 
Great riding this week! Even with the heat and humidity, everyone that came out to the rides did amazing.
 
I have to say, I'm so impressed by how well the group is progressing - regardless of if you're a new or experienced rider - the group is advancing on every ride and is riding together just as a great road group should. Keep up the good work!
 
Some of you have asked me why I decided to stop accepting new members. While a lot has to do with safety reasons, a lot of it also has to do with how the group grows and advances. A big part of group riding is trusting and knowing the people you're riding with. Considering how closely you have to ride with the other members, it's important you feel comfortable with those around you. Every time a new rider joins the group - or someone that doesn't attend regularly - it makes it tough for the group to gel...and to anticipate the ride style and abilities of the other riders.
 
So, that being said, seeing as we're a good way into the summer and with the above in mind, I thought I'd put the following points out there:
 
1) If you are a new rider, if you are uncomfortable riding in a paceline and/or at faster speeds, or if you are a member that does not ride regularly, please ride on Tuesday nights. I started the Tuesday night rides to give newer riders or anyone not yet comfortable riding in a group, the chance to ride in a less intense, less intimidating environment. Everyone that regularly attends the Tuesday night rides is doing great and is advancing amazingly well. We'll still be practicing group riding skills, promoting proper group riding etiquette, and offering progressively more challenging rides on Tuesdays, just at a more relaxed pace.
 
2) The Wednesday night rides have been very well attended and will continue getting faster and more challenging as the weeks progress. Please respect your fellow riders and only choose to ride on Wednesday nights if you are comfortable riding at faster speeds and in a tight group. Please keep in mind that we do not always have a sweep riding on the Wednesday rides as the women that choose to ride with the faster group feel comfortable dropping off the back and/or making their way back to Gears on their own if need be. 
 
3) I think since we started offering various distance and pace options, Saturday rides have been very successful. For the most part, we'll continue riding the same, or similar route so that members know where they are at all times and are able to find their way back to Gears if need be. Again, please be respectful of your fellow riders and ride within your limits and within your comfort zone.  There are generally 3 distances/paces to choose from so everyone should be able to ride quite comfortably. Keep in mind, that as the distances progess so do the speeds, so you can and should plan your ride accordingly.  If you would like to do a slightly longer ride within your chosen group, there's no reason why you can't add on some additional mileage either with the group or one your own. Just be sure to ride safe!
 
Again, great work everyone! Keeping in mind the above information, here's what's happening this week:
 
Tuesday, July 13th: Recovery/relaxed pace ride 
 
New riders, riders looking to improve/work on group riding skills, riders that don't attend regularly, or anyone looking for a more relaxed environment to ride in are welcome to attend this ride. Group riding and basic ride skills are covered during this 1.5 to 2.0 hour ride.
 
Leaves from Gears at 6:30pm sharp.
 
Wednesday, July 14th: Faster paced ride
 
Leave from Gears at 6:30pm sharp.
 
Please only ride with the Wednesday night group if you are comfortable riding at faster speeds and in a tighter group. Ride duration is between 1.5 and 2.0 hours.
 
Saturday, July 16th - Saturday ride. All are welcome!
 
Ride leaves from Gears at 9am. Various distances (depending on who attends - usually distances of 35, 50 or 70+kms) and paces. Pace progresses as distances progress.  
 
Drop me a line if you have any questions. Otherwise, will look forward to seeing everyone throughout the week!
 
Mel
 

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Sunday ride to Moffat

Hi All.

For all of you planning to do the ride to Moffat tomorrow: ride leaves from Gears at 8:30am. Distance is approximately 120km with a stop at the half-way point for buttertarts. Remember to bring some money!

I just checked the weather and it looks like there's a possibility of rain...but I think that's not until the evening. If the weather is such that we do need to cancel the ride, I'll send out an email and update the blog (http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com) by 7:15am. If no email, then the ride is on!

Andrew - can you please forward this info on to your group and to anyone from Gears that may be joining us.

Drop me a line if you have any questions. Otherwise will see everyone tomorrow morning at Gears!

Mel

Sunday ride to Moffat

Hi Girls.

For those of you doing the ride to Moffat on Sunday...we'll be leaving from Gears at 8:30am. Distance is approximately 115km. Pace will be around 25 to 27km/hr. Bring some money as we'll be stopping in Moffat for buttertarts!

Just so I'll have an idea about numbers, please drop me a quick note to let me know if you'll be joining us Sunday.

Mel

Remember to hydrate!

Hi girls.

One thing I neglected to mention in my weekly update was the importance of hydration. With this heat, if you plan on riding (or doing anything outside) you need to focus on hydrating well before, during and after your rides. If you're riding tonight or tomorrow night be sure to bring two full water bottles - at least one of which contains a high quality electrolyte powder such as eLoad (you can buy this by the serving or by the container at Gears). Also be sure to hydrate well before the ride and after. Again, a good recovery drink will help ensure you're ready to go the next day!

I made the mistake of heading out for a ride yesterday at noon - well over 30 degrees with humidity. I didn't really prepare for the ride and only drank coffee, toast and a protein shake. Needless to say, I was only 10 km in to the ride and at the foot of a not-so-steep hill before I had to get off my bike and lay down in the grass in order to keep from doing myself in altogether. I used a gel, drank a bottle of water with electrolyte powder and ate something. And this was only after about 10 km! I got back on my bike and felt only marginally better. I rode another 20 km and then called it a day. This was definitely because I hadn't drank enough or eaten enough before the ride! Moral of the story - just because you're going on a short, easy ride - if it's hot and humid outside...don't neglect proper hydration and nutrition!

Be sure to prepare well - nutrition and hydration wise - for all the rides this week. I suspect the heat will be with us for all our rides this week!

See you on the road,

Mel

Gears Girls update for the week of Monday, July 5, 2010

Hi girls.

Hope you all had a great Canada Day and got some good rides in over the weekend. Here's what's going on this week:

Tuesday, July 6, 2010 - beginner/recovery ride

Ride at 6:30pm from Gears. Ride will be between 1.5 and 2 hours. NB: this is a slower paced ride than Wednesday. All are welcome!

Wednesday, July 7, 2010 - fast paced ride

Ride at 6:30pm from Gears. Ride will be about 2 hours in duration. NB: this is a faster paced ride with little to no regrouping. If you're not comfortable riding in a tight group or at faster speeds, please select the Tuesday or Saturday ride options.

Saturday, July 10, 2010 - Saturday ride

All are welcome on the Saturday ride. Depending on the turnout, there will be distance options of 35km, 50km, and 95+km. Starts from Gears at 9am.

Sunday, July 11, 2010 - Tour for Tarts with Mel and Andrew - start time to be determined

Join Mel and Gears' Andrew Blair on this 115km ride from Gears to Moffat. Of course there will be a stop at Dar's for buttertarts so be sure to bring some money! Please note there will not be a shorter distance option on this ride - total distance will be between 115km and 125km. Please let me know if you plan on joining Andrew and I on this ride! I'll forward start time details within the next couple of days...will be sometime between 8am and 9am.

Hope to see lots of you out this week! Drop me a line with any questions.

Mel

Gears Girls Saturday ride - reminder

Hey girls.

Hope you all had a great Canada Day!

A number of you have emailed to see if there's a ride tomorrow. Yup - we're riding! Saturday, July 3rd, 9am from Gears. Depending on who's there, we'll have a couple distance options.

See you tomorrow!

Mel

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Gears Girls Update for the Week of Monday, June 28th

Hi Girls.
 
It was an interesting week weatherwise I must say! As I mentioned in my previous email, I'm sorry I cancelled the Tuesday and Wednesday evening rides as the sun start shining promptly at 6:30pm both nights. Worried that I would strike out a third time, I chose NOT to cancel the Saturday ride even though there were definite signs of rain!
 
11 brave souls showed up to ride on Saturday - much better turnout than I thought given the grey skies and rain drops. Overall the ride was great...one wise group did about 35kms and probably missed the rain; the other did around 85km. The 85km ride ended in pouring rain...but all in all, a great ride. Well, at least until my wee crash - but those that turn out to the rides this week will get to hear all the exciting details! Special thanks to Dai for taking the time to come out in the middle of his shift at Gears to pick me, Lisa and Tania up. Yay to Dai!
 
Here's what's happening this week:
 
Tuesday, June 29th - Beginner's/Recovery Ride
 
All are welcome! Starts at 6:30pm from Gears. Ride will be approximately 1.5 hours in duration. 
 
Wednesday, June 30th - Brisk pace Ride
 
Starts at 6:30pm from Gears. Ride will be approximately 2.0 hours in duration.
 
Saturday, July 3rd - Multiple pace groups
 
I had originally said there would be NO ride on Saturdays of long weekends but a couple of you have asked about riding this weekend. As there seems to be some amount of interest in riding on Saturday, I think we'll go ahead and do a ride this Saturday. Ride will start at 9am from Gears - same route/distance options as this Saturday with furthest distance being approximately 85kms. Perhaps drop me a quick line to let me know if you plan on riding this Saturday!
 
Looking forward to seeing all of you throughout the week!
 
Mel
 
 
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Gears Girls Saturday Ride - weather update

Hi Girls.
 
First off, I want to apologize for cancelling both the Tuesday and Wednesday rides this week. Same issue both nights...weather was terrible, forecast was terrible, I cancel the ride, by 6:30pm it's beautiful and sunny! I must admit I felt a bit foolish both nights and kicked myself for cancelling, but alas, a weather forecaster I am not!
 
Sadly, the weather tomorrow morning is not looking great: http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/city/pages/on-79_metric_e.html but I think once again, we'll play it by ear. I'm pleased to announce that I can now send a group email AND update the blog - regardless of my location (I was just being a lazy Blackberrier and hadn't created a group distribution list - I've done that now so can send an email to everyone without internet access).
 
Weather permitting, we'll ride as usual tomorrow morning from Gears at 9am. My plan was to offer an overall route of 75km with a couple turn around points offering routes of 35kms and 50kms.
 
If we have to cancel the ride, I'll send out an email and update the blog by 7:30am at the latest. Depending on the weather though I may chance it and not cancel the ride - hard to tell what it's doing in Port Credit from Carlisle...where I am on the weekends. If people show up and the weather changes for the worse, we can always go for breakfast and/or coffee! If the weather is lousy where you are, don't feel obligated to ride or show up - do whatever you feel comfortable and safe doing.
 
Hope to see you tomorrow morning!

Mel

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Beginner Skills Improvement Workshop

Hi Girls.
 
My chums at the Oakville Cycling Club are offering a one day skills improvement workshop on Saturday, July 10th. The workshop is aimed at beginner riders looking to improve their bike handling skills, increase confidence and ride in challenging traffic situations. Please note, this course is intended for beginner level riders and is NOT a "learn to race" workshop.

 

Topics covered include:

 

Equipment check

Basic maintenance        

Bike Handling skills         

Group riding skills

 

The workshop will conclude with a group ride of  1.5 - 2 hours

 

Cost of the course: $25 for members, $50 for non-members (All are welcome!)

 

If you have any additional questions, or if you would like to register, please send an email to Bent Fink-Jensen at bjensen@cogeco.ca and/or mail a cheque for the appropriate amount to Bent at the address below.  Also, check out the OCC website at: http://www.oakvillecc.com/.

 

Bent Fink-Jensen

Secretary & Membership

Oakville Cycling Club

1202 Owen Court

Oakville, ON L6H 1V3

905-842-8861

bjensen@cogeco.ca

 

Ride with you soon!
 
Mel

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Gears Girls Ride Cancelled - Again! Due to weather

Hi Girls.
 
Sorry to cancel the ride YET AGAIN but the rain has started in both Oakville and Mississauga and not looking to let up soon. A bunch of you have already emailed to tell me you won't be riding - so, better to be safe than sorry....the Gears Girls ride for Wednesday, June 23rd is officially cancelled :(
 
Let's hope for better weather Saturday morning!!!!
 
Mel

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Weather Update - Who's planning on riding?

Hi Girls.
 
Once again, the weather is calling for RAIN, RAIN AND MORE RAIN. But now I'm nervous about cancelling because last night I cancelled the ride at the last minute (sorry to the 4 of you that showed up...heard you had a good ride though) and it turned out to be beautiful. If you were planning on riding tonight, can you drop me a quick line and let me know what you think.
 
It's supposed to start raining any minute and not stop all night :(.  Looks ominious, but not raining. Yet, anyway. I'll wait until 5pm to make the final call I guess.
 
Sorry about being wishy washy!
 
Mel
 

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GG Ride cancelled tonight!

Sorry about the change of plans but it's now officially raining! I don't think it's going to get any better so I'm going to cancel the ride for tonight. Sorry ladies - let's hope for better weather soon!

Mel
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Tuesday GG ride - weather update

Hi Girls.
 
A couple of you have emailed me about whether or not the ride will be cancelled tonight due to the rain. As of right now, it's not raining...but it does look like it could start once again. One never knows these days!
 
It's 4pm - ride is for 6:30pm. I'll leave it up to all of you to decide if you want to ride tonight - if you're nervous about riding in the rain, don't feel obligated to show up! I'll be at Gears ready to go for 6:30pm. If the weather turns rotten I may have to cancel the ride for safety reasons but hopefully, it will hold out and we can go for our ride as planned!
 
Mel

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Route Map for Saturday ride to Moffat

For those interested in viewing the route we took (and the ride stats) for our ride to Moffat on Saturday, check out the following link: http://www.mapmyride.com/route//on/oakville/789127716985747374. Thanks to Lisa Heil for the new pictures posted to the blog. Thanks Lisa!!!

Gears Girls Update for the week of Monday, June 21st

Hi Girls.
 

Great turnout to the rides this week ladies – even with the threat of bad weather! There were 14 women out to the ride on Saturday...the weather folks called for thunderstorms Saturday but the weather turned out to be great and we all got to eat a buttertart (or two). For those interested, I'll post the route map to Moffat either tonight or tomorrow on the blog.

Read on for updates about the upcoming week and other important Gears Girls news:

 

GENERAL INFORMATION:

 

2010 Membership Update:

Due to the overwhelming popularity of Gears Girls, we're no longer able to guarantee membership for the 2010 season.  If you have friends hoping to join Gears Girls who are advanced/experienced cyclists interested in assisting on club rides on a regular basis, please ask them to drop me a line at gearsgirls@hotmail.com.  

 

Weather Updates:

In case of bad weather, and if you're unsure whether the ride will go out as planned, please check the Gears Girls blog at http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com/. While I do always try to send an email advising re inclement weather and ride cancellations, it's not always possible; so please be sure to check the blog regularly!

 

Group Ride Basics:

For the most part, our rides have been great. But there are still things we need to work on as a group in order to ensure that our rides are safe, efficient and fun.

 

All Gears Girls rides will stress group riding skills and the necessity of working together as a team;  important aspects of any good group ride. I've attached a great article written by Tom Kellogg. The article is a bit lengthy but pretty much outlines the elements involved in a perfect group ride!  Please take the time to read the attached article before your next Gears Girls ride.

 

Here are a few basic things to keep in mind on each Gears Girls ride:

 

Pace - Pace will be determined early on in the ride and will be adjusted as the ride progresses. Members are asked to respect the pace set by the ride leaders.   Gears Girls rides are NOT training rides and pace should therefore not be dictated by one or two overzealous riders.  Please do not pass the lead rider at any time unless you've been asked to take a turn at the front!  It's the lead rider(s)'  responsibility to establish a comfortable, smooth pace for the entire group – if you find yourself at the front of the line please maintain a consistent pace, consistent cadence and smooth, predictable riding patterns.

 

Communication - Communication is key! We'll cover important communication aspects over the next couple of rides, but suffice it to say that a good group ride isn't any good if no one is communicating!

 

Drafting – Riding in a group is all about efficiency and safety; but only if you stay together as a group! Depending on location, we'll either ride in a single or double paceline.  Please ride within one bike length of the rider in front of you (closer is preferable in order to take advantage of the drafting effect).  Everyone did an awesome job on the Saturday ride – we even managed to stay together on all the hills…both on the ascent and the descent.  The group communicated well, didn't pass other riders on the hills (up or down) and adjusted accordingly for terrain. Well done everyone!

 

Braking – One of the key mistakes people make in a group ride setting is to go too heavy on the brakes. Always remember that there are people behind and in front of you, so rather than slamming on the brakes, learn to anticipate what the riders ahead of you are going to do. Rather than braking full out, choose to feather your brakes lightly, soft pedal or switch to an easier gear. Tuesday and Wednesday night rides are perfect opportunities to work on braking techniques and other group ride skills.

 

Safety - Just because someone up the line yells "clear" doesn't mean the road will still be clear for you! Be responsible for yourself and for the riders behind you!  Do not pull out of the line without checking for approaching vehicles, cyclists, runners, etc.  Be aware of what's going on around you – both on the bike and on the road.  A couple other important safety basics: if you have aero bars on your bike, please do not ride in them during any Gears Girls ride. Please do not wear headphones/listen to music while on a Gears Girls ride. Please ensure your bike is in good working order before each ride and that your tires are properly inflated and that you have equipment necessary for changing a flat (spare tube, CO2 cartridge, tire levers).

 

INFORMATION SPECIFIC TO THE WEEK OF MONDAY, JUNE 21^ST:

 

Tuesday Beginner/Recovery Ride: Tuesday, June 22^nd, 6:30pm

Last week marked the beginning of our Tuesday night beginner rides! We had about 8 women out for the ride and all thoroughly enjoyed themselves! My hope is that these rides will mimic the Wednesday night faster paced group rides but at a slower pace – perfect for those new to cycling or anyone looking for an easier recovery ride. During the Tuesday night rides we'll work on group ride basics and skills necessary to ride safely and efficiently in either a single or double paceline. We'll also work on cycling basics such as hill climbing, cornering, gear selection, etc. All are welcome to the Tuesday night rides!

 

Wednesday Night Faster Pace Ride: Wednesday, June 23^rd, 6:30pm

Our Wednesday night ride last week was awesome! Pace was around 26km/ hour…everyone rode together like a pro peloton…all agreed the ride was great. If you're looking for a bit of a faster, tighter group ride then feel free to join us Wednesday nights. If you're not comfortable riding at faster speeds or in a close group, please ride with the Tuesday night group – at least until you're comfortable with drafting, single and double paceline basics.

 

Saturday Ride: Saturday, June 26^th, 9am

Meet at Gears at 8:45am, ride at 9am. All members are welcome to attend! Lots of options in terms of distance and turn around points.  The route (a version of the Bike 4 Betty ride) is approximately 75kms in total with lots of good options in terms of hills and rollers at about the 40km mark! I'm envisioning three turn around points allowing for rides of approximately 35, 50 and 75kms.

 

Looking forward to seeing all of you this week! Drop me a line if you have any questions re the above.

 

Ride with you soon!

 

Mel

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Weather Update - Saturday, June 19th - GG ride

Hi Girls!

As of right now, the weather looks okay - so the ride is still on! I'll leave it up to you to decide if you want to ride or not. But I'll be there...and I've heard from others that will be too.

Let's hope for the best :)

See you soon!

Mel

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IN CASE OF RAIN TOMORROW - GG ride update

Hi Girls.
 
I checked the weather forecast for tomorrow morning and once again (sigh...) it's not looking great: http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/city/pages/on-79_metric_e.html Chance of thunderstorms and rain overnight and into the morning - not supposed to end until tomorrow afternoon.
 
So, let's keep our fingers crossed (cause I'm REALLY looking forward to buttertarts!) that all is okay in the morning. But just in case, PLEASE CHECK THE GEARS GIRLS BLOG  http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com/ IN THE MORNING TO SEE IF THE RIDE HAS BEEN CANCELLED. I WILL NOT BE ABLE SEND OUT AN EMAIL RE THE WEATHER BUT WILL BE ABLE TO UPDATE THE BLOG. IF THE RIDE IS CANCELLED DUE TO THE WEATHER, I'LL POST SOMETHING BY 7:30AM.
 
If you're unable to access the blog, send me an email at gearsgirls@hotmail.com and I can let you know if the ride is a go or not.
 
Hope to see you in the morning!
 
Mel
 
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GG Saturday ride to Moffat - Start locations/times

Hi Girls.
 
As I mentioned in my weekly update, we'll be riding to Moffat on Saturday. I'm providing two ride options - one approximately 60km and one approximately 100kms. The 100km group will start at an earlier time and will meet up with the 60km group so we'll all end up riding together! Read on for information regarding meeting locations and times:
 
100km group:
 
Leave at 9am from River Oaks Community Centre (2400 Sixth Line, Oakville - just south of Dundas) - http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=2400+Sixth+Line,+Oakville,+ON&sll=35.101934,-50.712891&sspn=49.651929,113.994141&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=2400+6+Line,+Oakville,+Halton+Regional+Municipality,+Ontario+L6H+6J9,+Canada&ll=43.471398,-79.722944&spn=0.005474,0.013915&t=h&z=17.
 
Park towards the side of the community centre - I don't want the staff getting mad at us :)
 
 
60km group:
 
Leave between 9:45am and 10am from Hornby Field (Steeles and Sixth Line - southeast corner) - http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=hornby,+ontario&sll=43.471398,-79.722944&sspn=0.005474,0.013915&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Hornby,+Halton+Regional+Municipality,+Ontario,+Canada&t=h&z=14. Park in the lot closest to Sixth Line. There are washrooms there if needed. There's no washrooms in Moffat (and don't even think about asking in the bakery cause you'll get an earful from the owner and shown the field across the road) so take advantage while you can!!!!
 
The 100km group will meet up with the 60km group and then we'll all ride together. Please wait for the 100km group before heading out on the road! I suspect we'll be there before 9:45am, but just in case I'm leaving that window of time.
 
What to bring:
 
- Spare tube (or two) and CO2 canister (or two). It's going to be hot Saturday - tires tend to blow more in hot, hot weather!!!!
- Money - we'll be stopping at Dar's Delight in Moffat. World's best buttertarts!!!!
- Two full water bottles - with a high quality electrolyte powder in at least one of them. It's going to be hot and humid Saturday - be sure to hydrate well before the ride (tomorrow) and during.
- A gel or two and/or some on-bike nourishment such as a bar or energy chews.
- NB: make sure to eat a good breakfast (oatmeal, smoothy, eggs, etc.) before the ride, especially if you're doing the 100km ride!
 
Important notes:
 
While the ride to Moffat is not technically difficult, there are a fair number of rollers and a few longer steep-ish hills. Please ride within your limits and choose the most appropriate group. We will have numerous other rides like this over the summer, so if you want to work up to a further distance, you'll have that opportunity! 
 
There are a couple women that have asked about riding a distance shorter than 60km. If you would like to do this, please plan on starting with the 60km group. You can head out with us as far as you would like, then turn back. The route is very straightforward and well travelled by cyclists - so no worry about getting lost. Let me know if you are interested in riding a shorter distance so that I can figure out if there is going to be a group that would ride together.
 
If for any reason the weather changes and the ride has to be cancelled, please check the blog http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com. If I need to cancel the ride due to inclement weather, I'll post something to the blog by 7am.
 
Hope to see lots of you Saturday!
 
Mel

http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com/

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Gears Girls - Update for the Week of Monday, June 14th

Hi Girls.
 
Going forward, I'll start sending out a regular Sunday evening or Monday email letting everyone know about what's going on Gear Girls-wise during the week. This information will also be posted to the blog: http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com/.
 
WEATHER UPDATES:
In case of rain or inclement weather, please check the Gears Girls blog to see if the ride has been cancelled: http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com. I will try to send out an email if a ride is going to be cancelled, but because I don't always have internet access, I can't promise that I can do so. That being the case, I am able to post to the blog via my Blackberry so best to check that if you're unsure whether the ride is a go or not!
 
Tuesday, June 15th: TUESDAY NIGHT BEGINNER RIDE - MEET AT GEARS FOR 6:15PM RIDE AT 6:30PM
 
This Tuesday will be the first of our newly introduced Tuesday night beginner/skills improvement rides. Meet at Gears for 6:15pm, ride at 6:30pm. Tuesday night rides will focus on improving bike-handling skills (such as gear selection, hill climbing, cornering, etc.), improving efficiency on the bike and improving group riding skills.  Members that are new to cycling, new to group riding or just looking to improve upon their existing cycling skills are encouraged to attend!
 
Wednesday, June 16th: WEDNESDAY NIGHT INTERMEDIATE/ADVANCED RIDE - MEET AT GEARS FOR 6:15PM RIDE AT 6:30PM

With the addition of the Tuesday night beginner rides, Wednesday night rides will become a faster pace 1.5 to 2 hour ride. If you are new to cycling or are uncomfortable riding in a group or at higher speeds, please try to attend the Tuesday night rides...at least for a few sessions before attending the Wednesday night rides. If you are unsure about which evening ride would be best suited to you, drop me a line at gearsgirls@hotmail.com. 

Saturday, June 19th: RIDE TO MOFFAT
 
This Saturday will be our first group ride that starts at a location other than Gears! Members may choose to ride either 100km or 60kms. Please note that while the route to Moffat is not technically demanding, there are a fair number of hills - some rolling, some on the steeper side. Please ride within your limits!
 
There will be a rest stop in Moffat - around the 25 or 50km mark (depending on where you started). Bring some money as there are great buttertarts and muffins for purchase at "Dar's Delights"...which pretty much constitutes downtown Moffat! If you're not sure where Moffat is, check out the attached map: http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=moffat+ontario+canada&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=48.555061,113.994141&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Moffat,+Halton+Regional+Municipality,+Ontario,+Canada&t=h&z=14
 
I will send out information towards the middle of the week regarding start locations. If you would like to ride from Gears (I believe the total distance will be approximately 130km) please let me know and we can figure out meeting/departure times. 
 
Please drop me a quick line so that I know how many people to expect on the Saturday ride!
 
Looking forward to seeing you all at some point this week!
 
Mel
 

http://gearsgirls.blogspot.com

 

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In Case of Rain!

Hi Girls.

I don't have access to the GG membership list and only have limited email access. So...if it's raining tomorrow (Saturday), presume the ride is off :(.

As of now - friday at 7pm - it's calling for thunderstorms through the night into the morning.

Email me if you have any questions! Gearsgirls@hotmail.com.

Mel
Sent wirelessly from my BlackBerry device on the Bell network.
Envoyé sans fil par mon terminal mobile BlackBerry sur le réseau de Bell.

Update Re Saturday Morning Ride - Meeting is Off/Ride is On!!!

Great turn out last night for the meeting! I think we covered a lot of ground and made some good headway with regards to the future and focus of the club.

About 30 women showed up last night so I don't think it's necessary to hold a 2nd meeting on Saturday. So, with that in mind, there will be a ride (rather than a meeting) this Saturday, June 12th starting from Gears Bike Shop at 9am. Because a large number of members will be participating in Ride to Conquer Cancer this weekend, we'll reschedule the flat clinic to another day in the very near future. I'll keep you all posted with regards to the date for the clinic.

I'll send out meeting notes early to mid next week. In the interim, here are a couple noteworthy items to review:

Saturday Morning Rides:
1) Members will break into two or three groups in order to accommodate various levels of riders based on experience level and pace (provided there is a large enough turnout - if numbers are low we will ride together as one group);

2) Ride captains and sweeps will be assigned to each group at the start of each ride. Members will know who is leading, who is sweeping and who can be sought out for assistance;

3) Pace will be determined early on in the ride and will be respected by all members of the group;

4) Good communication and group riding etiquette will be stressed on all rides!

Tuesday Night Beginner/Skills Improvement Rides - NEW!!!!
Gears Girls will now be offering Tuesday night beginner/skills improvement rides. Meet at Gears for 6:15pm, ride at 6:30pm. Tuesday night rides will focus on improving bike-handling skills (such as gear selection, hill climbing, cornering, etc.), improving efficiency on the bike and improving group riding skills. Members that are new to cycling, new to group riding or just looking to improve upon their existing cycling skills are encouraged to attend!

Wednesday Night Rides:
With the addition of the Tuesday night beginner rides, Wednesday night rides will become a faster pace 1.5 to 2 hour ride. If you are new to cycling or are uncomfortable riding in a group or at higher speeds, please try to attend the Tuesday night rides...at least for a few sessions before attending the Wednesday night rides.

If you are unsure about which evening ride would be best suited to you, drop me a line at gearsgirls@hotmail.com.

Thanks again to everyone for their ongoing support of the club! Hope to see lots of you Saturday morning!

Mel

Gears Girls ride cancelled tonight - calling for thunderstorms!

I've been keeping an eye on the weather (as I'm sure you have too) and the chance of thunderstorms for the rest of the evening is pretty high.

Sorry for the short notice, but I think in light of the wet weather that's sure to come our way, we'll cancel the Gears Girls ride tonight (Wednesday). Let's hope for better weather for the Saturday morning ride!

If you do choose to ride on your own tonight, ride safe!

Mel

Pictures from the Bike 4 Betty ride - Sunday, May 31st

For those of you that didn't make it out to Bike 4 Betty this past Sunday...here's some pictures taken by Lisa Heil while on the road and before the event. Thanks Lisa!!!