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Forest City Velodrome News

April 30, 2008 – We invite everyone especially the recreational cycling members and competitive cyclist to come on out for our 3rd Anniversary Birthday Bash! Bring the whole family, bring your neighbours and bring your friends. Rumour has it there will be free birthday cake again this year. Racing starts at 7pm on Saturday, May 3.

Racers
This will be a tuneup for the Springbank Park Crit the next day. Come out and stretch your legs — the events will be short and fun. By the way the cake we are getting is low calorie and made of high energy ingredients — the taste is great!

Trackies Podium on the Road
FCV member Nathalie Mousseau won her age group on the weekend at the Paris – Ancaster MTB race…. well done Nathalie. Over 1800 riders were entered in the race.

The Ontario road racing season is into its 2nd weekend, several of our track racers have converted their winter track fitness into podium finishes. Heather Logan finished second at Calabogie and fourth at Westover and now leads the O-Cup Elite 1&2 Women’s series. Stephanie Bester has 2 third place finishes in races that came down to a sprint finish. Cadets John Cardin and Jason King, and Juniors Logan Cornel and Ryan Aitcheson all have first place finishes at either Calabogie or Westover.

Aitcheson and Cornel are now 1st and 2nd in junior O-Cup standings, while Cardin and another FCV regular, Trevor Dickenson, are 1st and 2nd in cadet standings. Local London rider Kristopher Ovsenek (Under 15) was first at Westover. What a great start to the road season!

Lisa Perlmutter won the Women’s Senior 3 Race in Toronto over the weekend. With performances like this the Senior 1’s & 2’s will have another track rider to contend with at the end of races.

NEW – Spring and Summer Riding Schedule
A new riding schedule for Spring is now up. Please click on the “FCV Programs” link for details. With the change in weather and more people moving to ride on the road we are cutting back on some sessions. The Sport Paceline session on Sunday mornings at 9:30am and the late Rec. sessions on Tuesday and Wednesday night are cancelled for the summer. Our popular 5-7 Monday-Thursday recreational sessions and Velo Kids sessions will continue with skills and race training on Monday and Wednesday nights.

The Velodrome will also open from Noon until 2pm for a recreational session on Sunday’s .

In mid-May we will re-evaluate the schedule and determine what other changes are required for the summer riding season.
Please email: info@ForestCityVelodrome.ca with any concerns.

FCV Invades Burnaby Velodrome
12 Ontario racers are heading to British Columbia to participate in MAYDAYS Race Weekend on May 9th — 11th.

We will have live updates from our “Cub” Reporter. The updates will be loaded in the News Section after each event. So check the website often over the weekend to see how our athletes stack up against the Best of the West.

Special thank you to the BVA for inviting our racers to get a “jump” on preparations for Track Nationals in August. 2 Cadets, 4 Juniors, 3 Espoires, 3 Elite Women and an old guy will be competing over the weekend.

May & June – “Track 1” Sessions – Update
The very popular FCV Track 1 “Introduction to ride” sessions are being planned for May & June. The Saturdays available are May 3rd and May 10th. Looking into June the dates will be June 7th and June 14th. If you are interested in taking the Introductory course, which begins at 11am and runs to 1pm, you need to register today – info@ForestCityVelodrome.ca

Cost is $20.00 per person for the session plus a $10.00 bike rental fee. Register early and don’t be disappointed. You and your group will have a “Blast”.

Riders wishing to upgrade their skills can attend the Monday evening sessions to better prepare for our Track 2 program. To book your Track 2 session you should email Rob Fournier (rob@uwo.ca).

Please indicate when you took your track 1 session and how much track riding you have been doing. Special Track 2 sessions are being conducted on Sunday afternoons.

2008 Ontario Track Championship Rider & Technical Guide
NEW – There is one change to the Women’s Omnium (Points Race). The Elite Women’s Points race will be run on Friday May 30. More information will follow. You can click here to view the Ontario Track Championship rider and technical guide

Rick Mercer DVD Ready to Ship
If you have not requested your DVD of the TV show that aired on March 25th please order your copy today. The cost of the DVD is a donation to the Forest City Velodrome. You will be issued a 2008 Tax receipt for the donation. Forms will be sent out with your order. To order send an email to: info@ForestCityVelodrome.ca Include your name, mailing address, city, postal code. The turn around time will be 24 hours from the time of the order. Thank you in advance for your continued support of the FCV Project.

Electric Pace Bike
Many of the members have been asking about the pace bike and when it will arrive. The order was placed in late February. The delivery time is 4 – 6 weeks. Delivery is estimated for the week of April 21st. $200.00 Donations are still being accepted for the Bike.

The riders who have made donations will get first right to use the pacer for training. Other riders who wish to use the bike will be asked to pay $20.00 per hour for the use of the unit. A maximum of 6 riders at a time will be able to get behind the pacer for two 20 min sessions per hour. We will monitor the early sessions to see how well they work and make modifications as necessary.

The Pacing sessions will happen on Monday Nights and Friday nights. Participation in the pacing sessions will be by pre-registration, on a “first-come, first-served” basis. A rider will only be able to book 1 session per week, until we see how everything will work.

Update – FCV Women’s Change room
The change room is complete. The mirrors, sink and toilet are working. The showers are operational. Thanks to FCV member Brian Kelly for organizing the work. This project is a much needed improvement for the Velodrome. Knock on the door and see the work that has been completed. This FCV project is to help our ever expanding group of women riders at the Velodrome.










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Forest City Velodrome News

August 6, 2007 – Great results for the Forest City Velodrome riders at the New York State Track Championships last weekend. The track was a monster at 400 metres. Over 60 riders were entered in all the Championship events.

Here are the Canadian Results on the weekend:

– Senior Men Kilo: 1st Jamie Shankland; 3rd Joe Veloce (Junior); 7th Steve Meyer (Junior)

– Senior Men Pursuit: Very competitive with Steve Meyer (Junior) finishing 2nd by 3/10’s of a second.

– Senior Men Sprint: Joe lost to Jamie in the Semi’s by a tire after leading out a very quick sprint. Jamie came 3rd in the final.

– Senior Men Kierin: Joe took a flyer over the top as the motor…. only to be DQ’d for a phantom pass of the motor (Black Helicopters are still circling). Jamie went on to finish 2nd.

– Men’s Scratch and Points races: Steve had two great races with the Americans ganging up on the young rider from the FCV and finishing in the pack in both races. Steve was very aggressive and was up the road in each race and was in position to be on the podium.

In the Detroit three-day Madison Grand Prix at Bloomer Park, the FCV was represented by Daniele Defranceschi and Dave Byers. They came back from a crash on the opening night of racing to finish on the top of the Podium. It just shows that our little Velodrome is producing results four weeks from Nationals.





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Forest City Velodrome News

April 19, 2007 – After a 2-week break racing returns to the Forest City Velodrome in London, Ontario this Saturday night April 21. A full slate of Mass start and Sprint races are featured. From Velo-Kids to Elite racers will have you on the edge of your seat.

Racing begins at 7pm Adult admission is $10.00, Seniors $5.00 and Children are always “FREE”.

The FCV will have our 2nd Birthday Party on April 28th….. plan now to attend. The racing action will start at 7pm.

Other news

The Ontario Track Championships are 6 weeks away, to enable racers to practice Pursuit drills and Sprint drills Wednesday evenings will be changing to accommodate the needs of the Ontario racers.

There will be no charge for FCV members, Non-Members will be charged $25 for the track time need to improve their TimeTrialing abilities. Coaches from Ontario are encouraged to bring their athletes to these sessions which run from 5:30pm – 8:30pm on Wednesday evenings.

Racers will be able to register on line for the Championships with the OCA beginning May 1st….. more details to follow.

New Sport Rec and Under 13 year old categories at the Track Provincials, these categories are for the Recreational and Velo-Kids riders at the FCV. This will allow these newer riders the opportunity to participate in an Ontario Championship Event.

For more information, go to www.ForestCityVelodrome.ca





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Forest City Velodrome News

January 3, 2007 – Seasons Greetings and Welcome to 2007!

New Recreational Ride Schedule
the website will be updated this week for all schedules and programs.

“¢ Expanded Recreational Riding
Tuesday Rec Riding begins at 4 pm.
“¢ Sport Riding Sessions
Thursday’s 7-9, Sunday 10-noon, Track School Level 2 required
“¢ Women’s Only Sunday Sessions

New — Expanded Rec

Beginning January 2nd, Tuesday’s Rec Session will start at 4 pm.

Sport Riding Sessions

To better serve our recreational members at the FCV we have extended an invitation for recreational riders wanting to upgrade their abilities in “Fun” Sport Sessions. These sessions will take place on Thursday’s 7 pm – 9 pm & Sunday 10am- Noon.

This is what you can expect:
Pace line riding with speeds up to 45 kmph, structured sprint & endurance drills to improve your fitness. These are not race efforts, but sport sessions. The only prerequisite is having successfully completed Track 2.

Revamped Track School System

“¢ Track 1 & 2 for Recreational Riders
“¢ Sport Rider Sessions – Thursday evenings & Sunday mornings
“¢ Race Specific Sessions Wednesday Night & Sunday Afternoon

Youth Velodrome Challenge

The FCV has released details of the World Internet Challenge. Our intention is to promote a friendly competition with all velodromes around the world. The challenge is targeting youth 10 years — 19 years to get involved with cycling, improve their fitness & track times for specific distances at your track.

www.VelodromeChallenge.com for details.
Your Velodrome can submit rider results for updating “Today”


Velo-Kids

The FCV is offering open track sessions for Velo-Kids to help bring new Kids into the program. The FCV is looking for young riders. No experience is necessary, Ages 8 to 14.

Saturdays 4 pm to 6 pm
“¢ Professional Instructors
“¢ Track Bike to use
“¢ Infield or Velodrome riding
“¢ We will supply everything”¦..

If you know of any child wanting to get involved just have the children at the velodrome at 4 pm on Saturdays.

A very special thanks to the Trillium Foundation for their support of our
Velo-Kids Program.


NEW FCV BROCHURE

A special thank you to Craig Pitchell and his marketing group for their efforts to develop a new brochure and marketing plan for the FCV. We will be using the Brochure to promote the velodrome for the 2007 spring & summer season. Once we have them produced please take the brochures and pass them around to hotels, motels, hockey arenas or local sports clubs in an effort to continue to bring new cyclists to the velodrome.

2007 Racing Licenses & Insurance Forms

These will be available shortly. Again once they are ready we ask all members to sign the waiver for the entire 2007 calendar year. Racers, on your 2007 UCI License, please mark off Road/Track so that there is no confusion if you want to compete at Track Nationals in the summer.
Note: OCA will send them when they are ready


Bike Storage

Magnus is working on bike storage for an additional 50 Track Bikes. The hooks will be available behind the track surface in corner #1. If we need more spaces, we will start in corner #4. The FVC thanks everyone for their patience in getting new storage built. Just a reminder that the FCV is not responsible for any bikes or equipment left at the track. Please lock your equipment up when storing it at the velodrome.

Upgrades Continue at FCV

Completion of the inner oval and roll around will be completed in a week. The London Thrashers will be hosting a Roller Derby Demonstration match in February. Details to follow.

Thank You Tracksters

As some of you have asked, rg & tg finally had the opportunity to take advantage of their special gift and ring in the New Year at the Elmhurst Inn. Thank you to all, it was a good time.


Gift Certificates

Gift certificates were purchased for many stockings this year. They are available by emailing Rob.Good@ypg.com. It is a great way to introduce someone to the track. The certificates can be used for any activity at the velodrome like Track 1 Learn to Ride or Rec sessions (each $30 session includes track bike rental)

Ride for MS

Here is your chance to ride 800 laps in one session and support a good cause. Date for the ride is Friday, January 19, 2007. Sign in and prep time is at 6:30 pm. Riding will start at 7 pm. For further details see the FCV website or contact Piers Davidge at biophysto@aol.com. Participants must either bring $50 in pledges or pay a $50 entry fee. A pledge sheet is available on FCV website. Riders will be capped at a maximum of 40, so pre-register early.


Upcoming Events

“¢ Saturday, Jan 6th 7 pm London Track League
“¢ Saturday, Jan 13th 7 pm London Track League
“¢ Friday , Jan 19th 7 pm Ride for MS Fundraiser
“¢ Saturday, Jan 20th 7 pm CanAmQue Challenge (attachment #1)
“¢ Sunday, Jan 21st 1 pm CanAmQue Challenge

Note recreational sessions are cancelled on Sunday, January 21st noon – 4 pm

Racers, you have approximately 6 weeks to test your legs:

“¢ Feb 16 – 18th
Forest City Velodrome Winter Nationals (attachment #2)

www.forestcityvelodrome.ca

Weather Line 519-878-7849





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Forest City Velodrome News

September 20, 2006 – Saturday September 23rd will see the return of 2006 World Masters Champion Gord Singleton to the Velodrome. Gord will go after Jamie Shankland’s track record of 8.06 seconds on our 138 metre Velodrome.

The night of speed continues with a Sprint Tournament, Kierin Series, Scratch races plus the Velo-kids.

Come out and cheer your local favorites, admission is $10 for adults,
Seniors $5.00 Kids always FREE.

1. The Forest City Velodrome has become the outlet for DOLAN bicycle in Canada. These very prestigious frames are supplied to the British Cycling team and the FCV is very happy to be able to be a supplier of the frames. Check out www.terrydolan.co.uk. More information will be available shortly.

2. The Fall & Winter riding schedule will be posted on our website over the weekend. Look for up to 20 additional hours of riding time for you to take advantage of.

3. Cadet / Junior Camp…. Saturday September 30th & Sunday October 1st.

Dryland strength techniques from Gord Singleton, plus Velodrome training……….. any rider wishing to take part must register before Thursday, September 28th to guarantee a spot.
rob.good@ypg.com

4. The October 6 Day bicycle race is fast approaching, If you would like to ride in the event please email rob.good@ypg.com before October 6th to be considered. There will be up to 7 teams taking part in this endurance event.





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Forest City Velodrome News

July 19, 2006 – Gudday Tracksters! The theme of this big newsletter is ‘Success’ and ‘Rider Development’.

Lots of big things are happening around the Forest City Velodrome. Pull up a chair. Here’s the first one:
________________________________

Here is the biggie I hinted about last week…

The Ministry of Health Promotion which promotes sport and physical activity at the community level in Ontario under their ACTIVE2010 plan, will announce that the Forest City Velodrome has been awarded a $22,500 grant to expand our Youth Development Programs at the Velodrome.

Because of this grant, “NEW for 2006 & 2007” camps will be developed for all riders Under 23 years of age. This Development series will include Fitness testing, Skill development and form a 3 tier Development Model to take Children from age 12 to Senior Elite (details below).

As well, an Espoire program will help bridge the development curve experienced by graduating Juniors as they turn Senior. Espoires will have their own program to lift performance in the years to come.

On the recreational front, Forest City Velodrome has introduced a Time Trial Series (details below) for members of the track. 
The FCV will promote adult fitness at the track during these Individual Time Trials.

All of this is thanks to the ACTIVE2010 strategy. Please take time to read their website – www.active2010.ca
_________________________________

Yellow Pages Group – a New Partner for Forest City Velodrome

It is with great pleasure that the Forest City Velodrome in London Ontario announces that it has secured the promotional advertising strength of the Yellow Pages Group brand name to help bring more riders and spectators to the Velodrome beginning in the next few weeks.

The package with the Yellow Pages Group includes Banners on the infield and around the outside of the track. In addition, in the community pages section of the Telephone Book, The Velodrome will have a full page of information about our Recreational and Racing Programs plus the Velo-Kids.

This will bring many new faces to the track. The community pages will be published in London, Goderich, Strathroy and area during the month of November.

Additionally tickets for the Yellow Pages Cup will be available throughout the winter to local London Businesses.

Last but not least – a search banner which will be placed on the home page of the FCV website to help you find a Person or Business across Canada.

The Yellow Pages Group is a tradition in Canada. The company publishes Telephone Directories across the country.

If you get a chance please thank your Yellow Pages Business Consultant when arranging your Yellow Pages for the coming year.
________________________________

Memberships!

Most memberships are due on September 1st.
If you joined before September 2005 you will be notified in August that your membership is due.

If you joined after September 2005 you will be notified one month ahead of your membership due date.

Those people re-joining within the month of their membership being due will receive two free tickets ($20 value) for a draw on a
custom Winterbourne track bike – www.winterbornebikes.com/

New fee schedule for 2007 is at www.forestcityvelodrome.ca/membershipfees.html

Donate $1,000 to the Forest City Velodrome Association and your membership is free and a tax receipt will be issued for the total amount donated. We had a few $1,000 donors last year!
____________________________________

Forest City Velodrome Funding

A few of you have had questions about funding of the FCV. Here is some info that I asked Goody to supply.

– Memberships and fundraising – 36% of total needed operational revenue.
– Racing revenue (paid spectators) – 33%.
– Grants – 30%

But Goody explained that these values are skewed from what he originally expected. In the beginning 66% was to be generated from Saturday night racing attendance. We should not be depending on as much outside funding.

He would like more revenue from Saturday night racing which (hopefully) could drop dependency on memberships and grants to 25%.

It must be noted that grants all go towards training camps and sessions for young people and not to general operating funds.
By the way, it costs about 110K per year to operate the velodrome which breaks down to about 9K per month. 

There is still an outstanding $60K balance owing to people who financed the Vel.

Of course creative fundraising is an on-going effort. Ahemm, that’s somewhat of an understatement.

If any of you need further funding details, do not hesitate to contact rg.
_____________________________________

Rider Development

Announcing the new FCV 3-tier Junior Development Program

Level 1 – Team Ontario
Junior aged riders 17 – 18 years old meeting the “A” time standards in preparation for Track Nationals

Level 2 – The “D Team” – (D for Development!)
Cadet aged riders 16 – 17 years old meeting the “B” time standards concentrating on skill and bike handling development.

Level 3 – The “Zee Team” – (the fun team)
Riders aged 13 – 16 years old learning how to ride the track skills & bike handling development.

With the help of the Ontario Ministry of Health Promotion & Ontario Trillium Foundation, regular Development Camps every 5 or 6 weeks will be run to improve fitness & track skills in preparation for 2007 Junior Nationals.

Much more information will come out in the coming months.
_______________________________

Mike T. is lobbying hard for another exclusive group of riders. We shall be seeking funding, sponsored bikes and clothing.  If it goes through the group will be Team PROG – (short for ‘Progress’) which stands for Pensioners, Retirees and Old Geezers. You heard it here first folks. Send your cheques to me. What was the question again?
_______________________________

Lost ‘n Found – a camera found on the table in the track center. I.D. it and it’s yours…………miket@execulink.com
_______________________________

Over the weekend of July 8th your received a couple of quick newsletters telling you of the incredible performances of FCV riders at the 2006 Track Masters, Junior & Handisport National Track Cycling Championships July 6-9 in Bromont, Quebec.

Here are the full results of FCV riders –

Master “A”
Brooks Rapley (former lap record holder at FCV)
Gold in Sprint
Silver in Kilo
Bronze in Pursuit

Master “B”
Garnet Abbey
Gold in Points Race
Silver in Sprint
Dave Jack
Silver in Points Race, Scratch Race, Pursuit.
Bronze in Sprint

Master “C”
Gord Singleton
Gold in Sprint & 500m TT
Mike Renneboog
Silver in Points Race
Rob Good
Silver in Scratch Race
Bronze in Points Race & 500m TT

Junior Women
Ivanie Bloudin
Gold in Scratch Race
Silver in 500mTT
Bronze in Pursuit & Points Race

Junior Men
Joe Veloce
Bronze in Sprint & Keirin
Alex Fournier, Ryan Crawford, Joe Veloce
Bronze in Team Sprint
Steve Meyer, Ryan Crawford
Bronze in Madison

Cadet Men
Logan Cornell
Gold in Sprint, Scratch Race & Points Race (3 golds!)
Trevor Deman
Bronze in Sprint, Scratch Race & Points Race

Honourable Mention
Vince DeJong
7th in Scratch race
5th in Pursuit
Joe Veloce 4th in Kilo 1:12.3
Florence Lapointe 3:07 in Pursuit

In total – 29 Medals at the Nationals – an unbelievable performance by the entire team!
__________________________________

The new Recreational Time Trial series!

For a few weeks we have been running a Timetrial race series aimed at our many Recreational riders.These races are perfect for those who choose not to compete in group races and beginning racers.
They are a solo timed effort and your times will be displayed on the Velodrome’s website.

Come and see how your speed compares to others at the track! Get some friendly agro going with your track buddies.

Distances – Standing Start Lap, 500, 1000, 3000 metre. Flying Lap.

When – during Thursday’s Track 4 session.  Time Trials – between 7 & 7:30pm. Warmup in the prior Rec session 5-7pm.
http://www.forestcityvelodrome.ca/comeriderace.html#timetrial
http://www.forestcityvelodrome.ca/results/2006_TT_Series_PBs.pdf
___________________________________

Racing

July 29th – Can-Am Challenge! Saturday Night Racing resumes! 
Racers for Detroit will challenge the regulars at Forest City.
Events will be a Flying Lap competition, Scratch races, Match sprints and a Madison.

The Velo-Kids will also be performing. Racing begins at 7pm, there will be many new faces at the Velodrome as we have invited many advertisers with the Yellow Pages as part of their Sponsorship program.

August 12th – Night of Champions.  This race night will feature recognition for our Junior and Master medal winners at the Canadian National Championships.

Also August 12th & 13th – a training camp for Espoires and Seniors. (Also open to Cadets & Juniors for Development) Featuring morning road rides (open to all members), afternoon track training and evening races.
___________________________________

Pedals

Most of us use clip-in pedals at the track and many of you use clip-in pedals off your road (or mtb) bikes. The problem here is that we need far more cleat retention tension at the track than we need on the road or trails.

On road or trail a pulled foot is rarely more than a slight inconvenience. We freewheel and clip back in. Not so on the track. A pulled foot while using fixed gear almost always results in a crash. Bringing others down due to your pulled foot is even worse.

Tighten your pedal release tension! Make it a struggle to get out of your pedals.

If you don’t know how to tighten your pedals, see your session leader.
___________________________________

101 things to do

The London Free Press newspaper listed riding the FCV as one of the top 101 things to do in SW Ontario.
http://lfpress.ca/newsstand/News/Local/2006/07/01/1662747-sun.html
____________________________________

Summer Camps for Youth

The Forest City Velodrome is offering a series of three camps for youth (under18)
over the 2006 summer months:

– Thursday, July 13, 2006 – this camp is now over. There were thirteen new riders to the track.
– Thursday, August, 17, 2006
– Thursday, August 31, 2006

The camps run from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. All equipment including track bicycles is supplied and a lunch will be provided. Class size is limited to a maximum of 18 participants. Be sure to register early. Pre-registration only by completing the registration form on the website. Registration fee – $10.

Our Velodrome Camps helped our Junior riders gain Gold, Silver and Bronze medals at the Canadian National Championships!  

Be part of the next wave!

Summer Youth Camps proudly sponsored by the Ontario Trillium Foundation. http://www.trilliumfoundation.org/cms/en/index.aspx

The Ontario Trillium Foundation is a major supporter of the FCV. We have received major grant money from them.

The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), one of Canada”šs leading grantmaking foundations, is an agency of the Ministry of Culture. OTF distributes $100 million of government funding each year generated through Ontario”šs charity casino initiative.

Their vision: the Ontario Trillium Foundation is a catalyst that enables Ontarians to work together to enhance the quality of life in their communities. They believe that communities across Ontario are rich in talent, creativity and drive and their grants stimulate communities to build on those assets.

Their mission: Building healthy and vibrant communities throughout Ontario by strengthening the capacity of the voluntary sector, through investments in community-based initiatives.

Thank you OTF! (yes they are on our mailing list!)
_____________________________________

KHS rental bikes’ success!

RG loaned our KHS rental bikes to two of the speedskater young people from Kingston/Ottawa for the nationals. 

Those bikes carried the two to 1 gold, 1 silver and 5 bronze medals. 
And that was on our heavy rentals against other kids on carbon wonder bikes with disk wheels. 

Well done KHS; well done Ivanie and Trevor!

A nice bike story

Many thanks to FCV member, Kingston Ontario’s Doctor Ken Reid, for loaning his incredible Pinarello bike to Logan Cornel also of Kingston. Logan, one of the speedskaters who first came to the FCV five weeks ago and attended just two sessions, won 3 Gold medals in the Cadet class at the national championships in Bromont Quebec on Ken’s bike. A class act Doc! A fine ride Logan!
_____________________________________

Fall & Winter Rec schedule

Let us know when you want to ride. Make additions to the riding schedule. Here is your opportunity to get what you want. Session Leaders wanted.

Operations at the Velodrome – Cost of opening the doors is $75 per hour, if you want a new session we need to have the riders to make sense of adding the extra time. We will have expanded time for the Kids; now let us know what you want.
_____________________________________

Vel spin-offs

Since the Forest City Velodrome was created rg has had enquiries from these places about the feasibility of velodrome construction – Edmonton, Montreal, Ottawa and Oshawa. But rg did it first. He had the dream for many years and finally acted.
_____________________________________

Jerseys! Goody claims he will have them in his hands on Friday. I will e-mail you all again when he is actually holding them.
_____________________________________

2006 – 2007 is already shaping up to be a bumper year at the FCV. With the help of our grants, our very successful track programs, the success of our racers and  our volunteers’ tremendous help, we’ve never looked better. 

Let’s all try to get behind some facet of FCV operations and drive Goody’s dream onwards.
_____________________________________





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Forest City Velodrome News

June 13, 2006 – Racing continues Saturday June 17th at 7pm in London Ontario. Featured races this week will be a Senior v Junior Keirin Tournament, Masters will compete in a series of scratch races, and the Velo-Kids will do a modified Keirin.

In the Keirin events our Derny will be used to pace the riders. Several new additions to the program will also be introduced during the evening.

If you are new to bicycle racing you will be on the edge of your seat, adult admission is $10.00, Seniors $5.00, children are always free.

Other News:

Saturday July 1st the Velodrome will be closed for the long weekend.

The Forest City Velodrome is pleased to introduce Rod Booth a marketing student from Fanshaw College who will be out in the community to help promote the programs at the Velodrome. Rod’s first activity is to take our programs to the London school system, this program begins this week. Good Luck Rod and bring many new faces to the track and our programs.

Revised summer ride & racing schedule is now posted on the website: www.ForestCityVelodrome.ca

3 day long Youth Camps will take place Thursday July 13th, August 17th, August 31st. Thanks to the Ontario Trillium Foundation for making these camps possible. All the information can be found on our website for registration information. If you have a youth 11yrs – 17yrs they can take part in one of these camps.

Thursday Nights, an individual TT series is being proposed, more information in the next few days. events will include, timed 500m, 1000m, 2000m & 3000m. results will be posted on the website.

June & July Velodrome promotion, any new rider completing the Track 1 (Learn to Ride) session, is being offered a “Free” session (bike included) in our very successful Track 2/3 combo sessions. Talk to the instructors for more details.

Sad news, Mary Kelly who looks after the concession on race nights, fell on her road bike last week and broke her heal, Mary will be out of action for a month. I told her riding on the road was scary. Mary, Get well soon!





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Forest City Velodrome News

April 20, 2006 – The Ontario Provincial Track Championships will be run this weekend at the Forest City Velodrome in London Ontario. This event will bring together the best Track & Road racers in the Province and Northern United States to compete for the right to represent Ontario at Track Nationals later in the Summer. “We have planned for 50 – 60 riders to compete in the many events over the weekend”, “This will be the largest Ontario Track event held in the Province in over 15 years”. Rider entry fees are $35 which covers all races for the weekend.

The Program will run over 3 days beginning on Friday Night with the Toughest race in Cycling. The Senior men & Juniors will compete in the 1,000m Time Trial also called the “Kill-o-Metre”. Masters, Velo-Kids & Women will contest the 500m TT also on Friday, The racing starts at 7pm.

Racing will continue all day Saturday with preliminary round action in the Sprints and Pursuits, Event finals will be at 7pm. Spectator admission will be $10. or buy a weekend pass for only $15, this covers all 3 days of racing.

On Sunday, the Japanese style Keirin racing will begin in the morning, with the Points Race scheduled for early afternoon in all categories.

It is our hope that we will be the sucessfully run the event in a manor to impress the Canadian Cycling Association enough so we can bid for the National Championships for London in the next 2 years.

(See attached file: IMG_0941.JPG) Racing at Forest City

In other News

* Ontario Cycling Association commits $5,000 to the Forest City Velodrome, Staff from the OCA will be on hand this weekend for the Championships. A presentation is planned on Saturday Night during intermission to pass the funds over to the FCV Association. A huge thank you from our 138 members to Steve Merker and staff from the OCA for their commitment to Track riding and racing in Ontario.
* April 29th the FCV will celebrate our 1st Birthday, We have planned a
“Racing Birthday Party” which will get started on Saturday Night at 7pm.
Lots of close racing action, Cake (Chocolate), and I’m working on a “band”
to play on the infield during the racing.

* Plan to get involved over the next few months, we will also be raising
funds for our summer Velo-Kids Camps (TBA). Planned is a BBQ, Swap Meet,
Racing

* Our Summer Riding schedule will be released in the coming days, Check our
website at www.ForestCityVelodrome.ca for all the details.

* City of London Youth Program kicked off this week with 10 riders going
through the Learn to Ride Track 1 session, all passed with flying colours
(Green,White,Gold & Black), the Knights would be proud. We look forward
to seeing these riders back to the track for a rec session soon.

* Jersey’s are in the works and an early sample can be found on
FixedGearFever.com our first order should arrive Mid-June.






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Forest City Velodrome News

March 27, 2006 – A very competitive field of riders has been assembled for our 3rd and final Six Day Race of the winter season. The teams have a good mix of youth and experience. Teams will race in 3 stages on each night, 2 x 30 minute segments with sprints and a Miss & Out. The third segment each night will be expanded to 40 minutes with no points sprints other than the double points on offer at the end of the night in the final sprint.

Racing begins this Friday night at 7pm and continues on Saturday with the Highbury Ford sponsored night of action. The first weekend ends on Sunday afternoon with long time 6 Day sponsor Verspeeten Cartage handling the awards for the riders, racing on Sunday is at 2pm.

Ontario Track Championships April 21st – 23rd

The Forest City Velodrome is pleased to host the Track Championships in Ontario for the 2nd year. Building on the success of last season with 29 riders taking part in the 2 day event. The 138m Velodrome is expanding the weekend to 3 days to accommodate the anticipated 60 riders who will be racing over the weekend.

The Championships kicks off with “Friday Night…. Kilo Night” first rider off the line at 7pm. Saturday will be the longest of the 3 days beginning at 9am with racing through to 10pm. Sunday is our Keirin Tournament & Points Races for all Categories. Registration is $35.00, enter as many events as you wish. Enter on the day of the race at the Velodrome.

Spectators will be able to purchase a weekend pass for $15 which will be good for all 3 days of racing action.

Weather forecast for the weekend is warm and dry with Zero chance of Rain or Snow.





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Forest City Velodrome News

March 14, 2006 – Track racing kicks off for the 6th round of the Ontario Cup Series at the Forest City Velodrome in London. This will take place this Saturday March 18th. There are four days to go and the entries have been coming in from Quebec, Michigan and the Buffalo area.

The three events to be contested for Ontario Cup points are the Pursuit Time Trial that kicks off at 2pm, later in the afternoon is Qualifying for the Keirin sprint races which will be the featured events in the evening program starting at 7pm. A points race will test the early season fitness of all the riders.

A special sprint tournament will be contested during the evening. Four of Canada’s top 10 sprinters will be in action with the track lap record of 8.17 seconds (Zach Bell) will be in jeopardy of falling. Other races in the program include a Miss & Out (Devil) and always an exciting Madison Team Race.

You will not want to miss any of the action. Arrive early and bring some friends. The evening program begins at 7pm on Saturday.

Other News:

The Velodrome is coming up to our first anniversary. Plan to attend our 1st Birthday Party as part of the Ontario Provincial Championships on the Weekend of April 21st – 23rd. The Championships are open to any track racer who wants to test their legs for the upcoming season. Ability based categories will be set up for all experience levels.

Spectators, if it has been a while since attending one of our race nights, come out and see some of Canada’s finest track stars take on the invaders from the South. You will be on the edge of your seat. Ontario Cycling Clubs get a group together for discounted admission prices.

See you at the track





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Forest City Velodrome News

February 14, 2006 (London, ON) – It is with great pleasure that the Forest City Velodrome and the City of London, Parks & Recreation are pleased to announce a program for the Youth of London. The Program will introduce children to the fun of riding the Velodrome. London Youth Centers will bring up to 125 children and young adults to the Velodrome to participate in our Track 1 & 2 sessions over the next 3 months.

We anticipate that many of the children will advance to our very successful Velo-Kids sessions on Saturdays & Sundays. The cost of the program is “free” to all children who get involved with the program. Many of these children may not ever have the opportunity to ride a bicycle on a Velodrome.

Discovery Channel to Forest City Velodrome

On Wednesday afternoon and evening the Discovery Channel will be interviewing the 87 year old Albert Coulier the Builder of the Forest City Velodrome. later in the evening, the producers will be showcasing our Junior program in a segment on the channel.

Then on Saturday, Discovery will be producing 2 segments. The first is on our Track 1 – Learn to Ride session. Beginning at 4pm during the short Track Championships the producers will be following up with the Juniors. Should be very exciting.

North American Short Track Championships

This is a 2-day racing event beginning at 4pm on Saturday Feb. 18th and continuing Sunday Feb. 19th at 9am. Both Sprint & Endurance events will be contested by racers from across Canada and the United States. 1982 World Keirin Champion, Gord Singleton from Niagara Falls has entered the sprint competition that includes a Sprint Tournament during the evening session on Saturday.

Come out and support our racers. See you at the Track





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Forest City Velodrome News

September 19, 2005 – This weekend at the Velodrome promises to be a Record Breaking Challenge, with the help of the All Season’s Sports in London, we have put together a program that the Volunteers at the track believe will leave the spectators on the edge of their seats for the entire weekend.

On Friday night at 7pm, Forest City Velodrome will have each racer attempt to set a track record for the flying lap, The spectators enjoy watching the top speed of our racers. The track record of 8.17 seconds (Zach Bell – Jet Fuel Coffee/Sympatico) is sure to fall. The Velo-Kids will also be going after the quick time in each of their age groups. The Masters will also be given a chance to set the mark in each age group up to age 80 Plus (I will list the categories later).

In addition to the Quickest Lap, on each night there will be a full race program of Handicaps, Keirins, Scratch Races, Sprints, Triple Threats, and of course the Nas-Track Madison League will be racing both nights.

Racing begins Friday September 23rd and Saturday September 24th at 7pm. Track will be open at 5pm for race warm-up and for out of town riders we recommend that you come early to get comfortable on the boards.

Admission is $10.00 for adults, Seniors $5.00, Kids under 12 are Free.

The website has been updated with all of our ride times for the coming
months, check out www.ForestCityVelodrome.ca for up to date information.

Our Velodrome and riders are currently being seen (not seen) in a Purolator
commercial, very cool.

See you at the track for the All Seasons Sports $10,000 Challenge

Race Program and line up: The record attempts are separate for Men &
Women in each age group
Record Attempts

-10 years and under Velo-Kids
-under 12 years Velo-Kids
-under 14 years Velo-Kids
-under 16 years Velo-Kids
-under 19 years Juniors
-Senior
-Masters 30 – 39
-Masters 40 – 49
-Masters 50 – 59
-Masters 60 – 69
-Masters 70 – 79
-Masters 80 Plus






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Forest City Velodrome News

September 12, 2005 – Another solid night of racing at the Forest City Velodrome on Saturday night. 32 riders contested a total of 17 races on the night. As the road season winds down more & more riders are making their way to the boards to find out what all the “buzz” is about.

We integrated the Velo-Kids into the program for the first time with new comer 11-year-old Kyle Rupay and 14-year-old Andy Field fitting in with the London Track League during the evening. Some very young London area Kids also came out to race and have a blast. We will be integrating the Kids more regularly on Saturday Evenings throughout the Fall & Winter. Specific track time for the Velo-Kids is at noon – 2pm on Saturdays. They must have taken a Learn to Ride clinic.

Adam Thuss set quick time in the Dash for Glory flying lap competition on a rental bike in a time of 8.51 seconds very respectable, his new bike arrives this week. in other action we tried some new events including a Triple Threat Points Sprint race. It was new for the spectators as well as the riders Taylor Martin won the event with Thuss, Eric Robertson tied for second, Vince Dejong was third. I will modify how we run this race in the future. It was a good try.

John Murray, Moagosha Pyjor, Greg Palmer and Hayley Roberts all had good finishes in their events on the night. In the evenings featured race a three lap Handicap, I gave a substantial lead to a couple of riders. Pyjor came out on top.

This weeks feature event is the “Devil”. with 15 riders going to contest the final it will be anyone’s race. The Nas-Track Madison will be pocket slings as our new shorts should arrive this week.

Only 2 weeks to go before the All Seasons Sports $10,000.00 Challenge. Racing both Friday night & Saturday night September 23 & 24th with racing for all London Track League racers and Nas-Track Madison Series events. The Challenge is for a rider to set a new lap record, covering the 138m of the track in under 7 seconds.


– All riders wanting to take a Learn to Ride clinic must “Pre-Book”
www.ForestCityVelodrome.ca for details.

– There is no open track time after Monday and Tuesday night LTR.

– All sessions are now $20.00 (unless you are a Member of the Velodrome) plus
$10.00 bike rental.

– Grand Masters (55 years plus) “Huff & Puff” sessions this week Wednesday
2pm – 5pm.

– The track will be open on Sundays from Noon beginning September 25th.

– Velo-Kids Saturday clinics from Noon to 2pm.

Have a great week, we will see you at the track.






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Forest City Velodrome News

August 8, 2005 – After a short summer break the racers at the Indoor Track in London Ontario were back on the boards putting up some very fast times.

In the first event Taylor Martin (Hamilton) set fast time in the Flying Lap Competition in a time of 8.74 seconds. Just off the track record set in May. The record prize pool now goes to $110.00 for next weeks racing. New comer to the Velodrome Jean Bertrand (Bermuda) crossed the line in 8.97 seconds, not bad for his first attempt. Other notable improvements were Kelly Henry (Brantford), John Murray (London) & Jeff Cook (London) who all set personal best times on the night.

The Keirin Competition was fast and furious, with three different winners on the night. We used a pace bike to bring the riders up to speed, before the sprint began. The comments from the spectators was that the competition was different from the regular racing that we see every week. The winners of the Keirins were Marc Goveia, three time Canadian Track Champion in 2005, along with Taylor Martin and Jean Bertrand in his first night of racing. Jean has the speed, now we just have to get him track time to improve his skills & confidence.

With the spectator response, we will be holding many more Keirin Competitions in the months to come.

In other racing action the London Track League put on some very spirited races with many riders coming in for the first wins of the year. Eddy Pol hammered off the front in the Scratch race to take the victory early in the evening. Vince DeJong, Brian Kelly, Kelly Hendry, & Jeff Cook were all winners in the Sprint and scratch races throughout the night.

In the Youth Division, 15 year old Victor DeJong ( younger brother to Vince) did a great ride in his flying lap at 11.68 seconds more than 2 seconds better than his time of 3 weeks ago. Victor just graduated from our Learn to Ride program and should be racing with the L.T.L. in 2 weeks with a little more time on the track developing his skills & confidence. seven-year-old crowd pleaser, Harry Gledhill from Hamilton almost made it on to the track during his flying lap ( he can get on the straight aways) improved his time by 1/2 a second down to 15.91 seconds. The third rider Billy Rodniki, 10 years old did a lap in 14.92 seconds, an improvement of over 1 second from his last visit. These kids are examples of what can be done in a short period of time with the youth of London coming out to the track & getting involved with the Velodrome.

We are looking for more youngsters to get involved with our learn to ride programs.

For more information: www.ForestCityVelodrome.ca





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Forest City Velodrome News

August 4, 2005 – After a summer break from racing at the track in London Ontario, Racing returns for the next four weeks at the Forest City Velodrome. Saturday August 6th will feature a Japanese style Keirin Competition.

The Keirin event is a sprint competition that has the riders follow a pace bike for the first 3/4 of the race. The riders jockey for position in the first part of the race, with three laps to go, the pacer exits the track and the competitors sprint to the finish line. Speeds can exceed 60 kph during the last lap of the race.

In addition to the Keirin, The London Track League will have their usual events running during the evening. Special $100.00 prize to a rider breaks the Lap Record.

The Nas-Track Madison team race will feature teams from the Detroit area (Velodrome at Bloomer Park) against the Forest City Teams, as many as seven teams are scheduled to race in the event.

Track opens for warm-ups at 5pm, Spectators are encouraged to come early. General admission seating opens at 5:30 p.m. Admission for adults is $10.00, Seniors $5.00. Children admitted free when accompanied by an adult.

Racing begins at 7pm.

For more information refer to the website: www.ForestCityVelodrome.ca





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Forest City Velodrome News

August 1, 2005 – With more and more riders using the Forest City Velodrome, there was a need to expand the riding schedule until the end of the summer.

Monday
5 – 7 pm
Structured Recreational Riding
Paul
Poppy ( reserve your bike) 519-643-0179
7 – 9 pm
Learn to Ride
Dave Bee
519-673-3306

Tuesday
5 -7 pm
Structured Recreational Riding
Magnus Graham
519-681-9454
7 -9 pm
Learn to Ride
Jeff Cook
519-660-6932

Wednesday
11am – 2pm
Structured Sport Riding
John Murray
519-457-7877 or Mike Tierney
519-539-8859

5pm – 9pm Learn to Race (skills)
Rob Good
519-883-7849

Thursday
6pm – 8pm
Beginner Recreational
Mike Tierney
519-539-8859
8pm – 10pm Advanced Recreational
” “

Friday
6pm – 9pm
Sport Riding
Mike Tierney
519-539-8859

Saturday
2pm – 3:30
Learn to Ride
Eddie Pol
519-471-8708
3:30 – 5pm Structured Recreational
5 – 7pm Race Warm up

Rob Good





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Forest City Velodrome News

July 21, 2005 – Just a reminder that because of the Provincial Criterium Championships in Kitchener on July 24 and the long weekend on July 30 there is no racing at the London Velodrome on July 23rd and July 30th. Racing resumes on Saturday August 6th at 7pm.

All regular programs at the track will continue during this time, please contact the group leader in advance to reserve your track session.

We are working on ways to make the advancement to the next skill level a little easier, talk to the ride night leaders for an explanation.

The Velodrome is looking for people who have gone through the LTR & Sport Clinics to step forward to help as leaders of sessions through the winter. We need people to be able to expand the hours we are open for general structured riding. (Give me a call or email, to find out more.)

Day time riding 11am – 2pm, A few members have been asking about a noon hour ride, we need a minimum of 3 people who are committed to organizing a consistent ride time. Please contact John Murray 519-457-7877 if you can help or interested in riding.

If you were looking for pictures of our race nights, go to www.RememberWhenImages.com Keith Langton has a full directory of shots for you to view or purchase.

2 Major races are being planned in the Fall. The first is September 23 – 25 ( Forest City Grand Prix) and October 21st – 30th ( London Cycling International).

The September race will feature a “BIG PRIZE” for a rider who can go under 7 seconds on a flying lap. (Details to follow) Hint …I’m working with an insurance company. There will be a Sprint Competition & Endurance Competition for all Categories. ( U15, Junior, Masters, Women, Elite) If you are coming from out of town start planning now for this event.

In Oktober, The London Cycling International will feature 9 nights of competition, minimum of 2 hour Madison’s each night, 7 – 3 man teams will compete in the first bicycle derby in 30 years in Ontario. Plan your holidays now so you can take part. The London Track league will also be competing during each evening.

I will update everyone well in advance with the race schedule for each of our events.

Members of the Transplant Games in London will be visiting the track tonight. Team US and Team Australia will be in attendance.

That’s it for now. If you have any questions or want to give us any feed back please feel free to send a note along.

Yours in sport,
Rob Good

www.ForestCityVelodrome.ca





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Forest City Velodrome News

February 11, 2005 – It is with great please, that I am able to announce that an agreement has been reached between Atinar Properties and The Forest City Velodrome Association. The agreement is to Construct and operate an indoor portable velodrome and multi-use sports facility, in the “Old Icehouse” in the Southend of London Ontario.

This is the first new velodrome in the province of Ontario in 25 years.

The construction of the velodrome will begin immediately, with a scheduled completion date in mid to late March. The track will be 142m, ideal for instruction, training, and racing. A more in-depth schedule will follow in the coming weeks.

Many of the programs that will be available at the Velodrome include; Children’s safety riding skills for kids 4-10 years old, Youth Future Champions programs ages 11-16 years, Disabled athlete’s programs geared to the Para-Olympic games, Youth & Adult recreational programs to promote a healthier lifestyle in the community, Finally the Elite Racing program to build athletic performance for national and international Competition.

The other activities to be in place at the building in the coming months, include a running track, around the top of the seating area, courts on the infield for other sports or groups to use during the week, a weight room, whirlpool and sauna.

Both parties look forward to producing some of Canada’s top Olympic & Para-Olympic athlete’s in the years to come.

Checkout www.ForestCityVelodrome.ca to find out more information about the Velodrome Complex.

Yours in Sport

Albert Coulier and Rob Good





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Forest City Velodrome News

January 12, 2005 – Here is the latest news regarding the Forest City Velodrome.

St Thomas Bicycle Shop for the Forest City Velodrome

Paul Fagan, owner of Pauls Bicycle Repair in nearby St. Thomas (10kms from the velodrome) has agreed to be a Sponsoring Partner at the new Forest City Velodrome.

Paul, a long time racer, has committed to helping out our track racing program in the up coming months. ” my main focus is recreational riders & to bring a little bit of a Zipp to the proposed Wednesday Night Race Series”.

“This project is fantastic for the cycling community in the London area. Kids will learn how to safely ride their bicycles at a very young age”. It is my intention to support the Velodrome any way I can”, said Fagan. “The next step is to get the cities of London & St. Thomas in step with the track project”.

Photo Timing system for Forest City Velodrome

The London Centennial Wheelers in London Ontario have allowed the use of some high tech Photo Finish Timing Equipment to be used at the proposed new Velodrome in the Forest City.

The equipment will be operated by local riders who have experience at the handling the system. Greg Palmer from London will be spear heading the project. This is just another way for Companies & Individuals to get involved with the Velodrome.

Palmer said “that with the accuracy of the system ( see below) we will be able to call, even the closest finishes”.

Thanks to all members of the London cycling community for support of this project.





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