Destination; Success - Team Extreme's Inaugural Road Racing Training Clinic
Extreme Ski & Bike Racing Clinic riders turned out in force for the Team's inaugural two day road/criterium skills training event. Country Inn and Suites in Germantown was the start and finish line for each day's events. The area roads, industrial parks, and county parks provided the backdrop as the 28 cyclists representing 4 teams ticked away a collective 2,800 miles during the clinic - but their true destinations were in finding the fastest lines sweeping through the apex of turns, the quiet calm of the slipstream amongst howling winds, and how to better collaborate and utilize their skills to help a teammate reach the podium.
The classroom portions of the clinic provided breakdown of theory, bike handling, race tactics, video analysis, individual and team goals, training and power. The fun and enlightening Question-and-Answer sessions provided great information for riders of varied experience and skill levels.
Fun was had by all at the group dinner at LaChiminea on Friday night. Participants sparred with wit and skill to try to win fantastic door prizes donated by the generous event sponsors including a PowerTap SL+ wheel donated by CycleOps Power; pumps and accessories from Planet Bike; a Race X-Lite wheelset from Bontrager, as well as prizes from Extreme Ski and Bike, Tifosi, Giro, Sock Guy, Hammer Nutrition and the new Midwest race series - Tour of America's Dairyland.
Leading the program and bringing a wealth of knowledge and insight to the training course was Coach Tom Schuler, current Manager of Team Type 1, former Olympian, and of 7-Eleven Pro Cycling fame. Coach Schuler's program kept the riders engaged, entertained, and working hard throughout the event.
Riders left this worthwhile Team Extreme event carrying with them an increased knowledge, skill set, confidence, and appreciation for fellow riders and the sport of road racing. The enthusiasm and positive feedback from riders has already prompted the initial planning for 2010 clinic.
--- Rick Amen
