Tag Archives: Brendan Lyons

Community Bike Ride List Oct 10-16

Early voting started this week for the Pima County Bond Election.

Speaking from the “Bike” prospective, there are many reasons to vote yes on all 7 bond propositions.  I have gone through every item and broken down what is good for cycling. It has funding for  roads, the loop, bmx tracks, trailheads, new trails, open space and more.  If you want the detailed list please email Damion@damionalexander.com and say Bonds and Bikes in the subject.  No matter how you feel or vote, remember, our Democracy only serves those that show up on election day.

This list is a major time commitment and it is my pleasure to put it together.  All I ask in return for the list is that you remember I’m A REALTOR.  If you have a relationship with another REALTOR, I love loyalty and respect those relationships.  However, if not, or if you need a second opinion, Please keep me in mind.  Many agents spend money advertising for new business, others sit open houses or cold call.  My business is based on referrals from past clients and friends.  The less time I have to do traditional prospecting the more I can do for the cycling community.  For example: this list.

Damion

I DID NOT CONFIRM EVERY TIME, but did get in touch with most of the ride leaders and shops.  You should always verify times before you head out and remember these ride times are when the ride leaves.  Please show up as early as needed to make sure you are ready to roll out at the time posted.

REOCCURING WEEKLY RIDES

What Where When Distance/Time Speed Contact
U of A Cycling Monday Mosey Flagpole  – West Side of  Old Main Monday

6:30AM

1-1.5 hours Max 20 miles How fast can a mosey be? http://uacycling.com/

 

 

Ben’s Bike MTB Meet at shop Monday

6:00 PM

1-2 hours Easy, fun, social Ben’s Bikes
Hills, Hills Hills Bashas Kolb/Sunrise Tuesday

5:30AM

20 miles

About an hour

12-14

HILLS

Damion Alexander

520-977-5664 text or call

Velo Vets

 

VA Blind Rehab Center at the VA Hospital

 

Tuesday 4:45PM Two rides.  One on VA campus. Other on The Loop easy, fun, social and service ride Giuliana Donnelly

Phone:520-465-5186

http://www.azvelovets.org/

Tuesday “Shootout” University/Euclid Tuesday

6:30AM

2.5 hours

40 miles

Fast www.Fairwheelbike.com
RBAR Energy MTB Ride& Rbar Samples Fantasy Island North Side Tuesday

5:30PM

Easy ride https://www.facebook.com/pages/Zona-Cycling/186457201423794?fref=ts
Tuesday Night Fast Fixed Ride Flagpole  – West Side of  Old Main Tuesday

6:30PM

Few Hours Varies Fast brownus_clarence@yahoo.com
Tuesday Night Ride Flagpole  – West Side of  Old Main Tuesday

8:30PM

12-18 miles Slow https://www.facebook.com/groups/5833629539/
UA Cycling  Wed.Worlds Flagpole  – West Side of  Old Main Wed

6:30AM

40-60 miles http://uacycling.com/
Mt. Lemmon University/Euclid Wed

6:30AM

55-60 Miles www.Fairwheelbike.com
JKG DnA Easy Udall Parking Lot Wed

5:30AM

Udall-Mile post 3 on Lemmon Casual

NoDrop

https://www.facebook.com/groups/579397565447522/?fref=ts
Cyclocross Fort Lowell Park Wed

5:15pm

Some riding, jumping obstacles + beer https://www.facebook.com/groups/671108262985165/
Heavy Pedal Flagpole  – West Side of  Old Main Wed

7:00PM

Different route each week
Wednesday Shredzday Sierra Vista 31.501495, -110.274078 Wed

7:00PM

10 miles Sun & Spokes. 520.458.0685
Bike Polo UofA Mall Wed

8:00PM

https://www.facebook.com/tucson.bikepolo?fref=ts
Up Oracle

Thursday Shootout

University and Euclid Thurs

6:30AM

Fast www.Fairwheelbike.com
Hills, hills, hills Bashas Kolb/Sunrise Thurs

5:30AM

20 miles 12-14(but Hills) Damion Alexander

977-5664

Tim Carolan Ride AJ’s

Sunrise/Campbell

Thursday

7:00AM

45 miles 18 plus timcarolan@mac.com

548-3624

U of A Cycling Thursday Thrill Flagpole  – West Side of  Old Main Thurs

6:30AM

1-1.5 hours Max 20 miles Easy Ride http://uacycling.com/
Ordinary Bike Shop Ride Ordinary Bike Shop Thursday

7AM

10-20 Miles Conversational Pace Nate Woiwode nate@ordinarybikeshop.com
The JKG Flagship ride Le Buzz Thurs

5:30AM

Le Buzz to Molina Basin Hammer fest JKG Strava on Facebook
Tasty Chipolte Night Ride Sierra Vista

Chipotle  6 or circle K at 6:30

Thursday

6:00PM-  Chipotle 6:30 PM

Circle K on BST

20-25 miles No drop Sun & Spokes. 520.458.0685
U OF A Cycling  Friday Freewheelin Flagpole  – West Side of  Old Main Friday

6:30AM

2 hours

30-40 miles

Team Time Trial Practice http://uacycling.com/
Bicycle Ranch Tucson Group Bicycle Ranch at Oracle and Ina

 

Saturday 6:30AM 48 (shorter option of 35 as well) miles 17-20

MPH

Free Breakfast after ride

Steve 520-219-4311

The

Old  Man Shootout

University and

Euclid

Saturday 6:15AM

Next week new ride time

60 Mile (can be extended to 100) Fast

20 MPH+

www.fairwheelbikes.com
The Big Boy Shootout University and

Euclid

Saturday 6:30AM AM

Next week new ride time

60 Miles(can be extended to 100) Faster www.fairwheelbikes.com
Performance Speedway Shop Ride 3302 E. Speedway Blvd Saturday 7:00AM 15-20 miles 12-15

No drop

Pbs074@performaneinc.com

(520) 327-3232‎

Performance Broadway Shop Ride 7204 e Broadway Saturday 7:00AM 10-15 miles beginner 12-15

No drop

pbs054@performanceinc.com

520-296-4715

Broadway Bicycles Shop Ride Various Routes

Call Scott

Saturday 7:00AM Scott 296-7819
Miles Ahead Shop Ride I’m sad to say that Miles Ahead has closed and one of the best shop rides in Tucson is no more.  If you are interested in starting a Pistol Hill Ride Every week, please let me know so I can put it here.  I know there is an interest, we just need someone to step up.  Thanks Geoff for having such a great ride.  You and Miles Ahead will be missed.
Ben’s Bike Ride At Ben’s bike

7431 Houghton

Saturday

8:00AM

6-10 miles Easy www.bensbikestucson.com

520-574-2453

Sabino Cycle Shop Ride Varies- email Steve  to be on the list Saturday 6:30AM No Drop steve@sabinocycles.com

 

Tucson Endurance Performance Center Ride Mountain Bike Ride Contact shop for details.  Different route weekly. Saturday 7:30AM www.graskyendurance.com/weekly-workouts.html

 

Performance Speedway Shop Ride 3302 E. Speedway Blvd Sunday

6:30AM

30-35 miles 12-15 Pbs074@performaneinc.com

(520) 327-3232‎

Tucson Endurance Performance Center Ride 6448 N Oracle

 

Sunday

7:30AM

www.graskyendurance.com/weekly-workouts.html
Ben’s Bikes At Ben’s bike

7431 Houghton

Sunday 8AM 35-40 17-20 www.bensbikestucson.com

520-574-2453

 

THIS WEEKS ROAD RIDES

PLEASE NOTE- Category below just for Mountain Bikes

What Location Date/Time Distance Speed Contact- More Info
Back In The Saddle (BITS) Session 1of6 Brandi Fenton Splash Pad

3482 River Road

Saturday

10.10.15

8:00AM

4-5 Miles No Rider left behind http://www.meetup.com/bikegaba/events/225612135/
Zona Cycling

First of the Month Mt Lemmon Ride

Starbucks at El Con Coffee Shop Saturday

10.10.15

6:30AM

70 miles ??? Do you know?? Email me https://www.facebook.com/Zona-Cycling-186457201423794/timeline/
Tucson Recumbent Cyclists NE corner of the parking lot at Hi Corbett Saturday

10.10.15

6:30AM

17.6miles Mach 3 or slower https://www.facebook.com/groups/TucsonRC/
Ride On Cycling Group Training Ride Beyond Bread at Ina/Oracle Sunday

10.11.15

6:30AM

40-45 16-19 mph

 

Dean Drawbaugh dwdrawbaugh@aol.com
Riders for the Cure Brewd on Sabino Canyon near Snyder Sunday

10.11.15

6:30AM

48.53139 miles different levels splits up into 2-3 groups Charlotte Dobson charlotte.dobson67@gmail.com
        El Tour Training WestSide Long Wk:5 74 Miles Fry’s Marketplace

12100 N Thornydale Rd,

Sunday

10.11.15

6:45 AM

72 This is NOT a no-drop ride. http://www.meetup.com/bikegaba/events/225459067/
El Tour Training EastSide Long Wk 5: 80 miles Morris Udall Park

7290 E. Tanque Verde

Sunday

10.11.15

6:30AM

80 miles Fast and Slow. Self supportd http://www.meetup.com/bikegaba/events/225029311/
El Tour Training Ride WS Short Week 5 – 45 Miles Fry’s Marketplace

12100 N Thornydale Rd,

Sunday

10.11.15

7:00AM

45 miles This is NOT a no-drop ride. http://www.meetup.com/bikegaba/events/224743190/
DOWNTOWN El Tour Training Ride – Wk 5- hills 66 miles Armory Park

221 S. 6th Ave,

Sunday

10.11.15

6:30AM

66 miles 12-14 mph http://www.meetup.com/bikegaba/events/225660873/
El Tour Training Ride – East Side Short 45 miles Basha’s parking lot, Camp Lowell and Swan Sunday

10.11.15

7:00AM

45 miles This is NOT a no-drop ride. http://www.meetup.com/bikegaba/events/225211960/
The Bicycle Loop Ride Udall Park Monday

10.12.15

6:30AM

58 miles 14-15 MPH http://www.meetup.com/bikegaba/events/225762296/
Ken’s Monday Ride Beyond Bread – corner Oracle /Ina Monday

10.12.15

7:00AM

25-35 16-18mph http://www.cactuscycling.org/event-2065414
Hohokam Park Village Bakehouse, SE corner of Oracle and McGee Wednesday

10.14.15

8:00AM

26-35 Miles 3 groups (speed/distance) http://www.cactuscycling.org/event-2004514
80’s eXcess Bike Ride Snake Bridge! Ride down aviation.  Traffic free Wednesday

10.14.15

7:00PM

Not much Slow, music, dancing https://www.facebook.com/events/1654080188172323/
Saguaro Park East Loop Ride Udall Park Friday

10.16.15

5:45AM

30-39 MILES 14-15mph http://www.meetup.com/bikegaba/events/225762529/
Saguaro Nat Monument Le Buzz Friday

10.16.15

7:00AM

30-35 MILES 16-18mph http://www.cactuscycling.org/event-2004534
Next week, October 17th, the ride to do is the Bike To Build for Habitat for Humanity.   https://www.facebook.com/events/500154503483167/ or register at  http://hfht.convio.net/site/TR?fr_id=1100&pg=entry

 

THIS WEEKS MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDES  ^^^^Road rides are above^^^^

What Location Date

Time

Time  Distance Speed Contact- More Info
Broadway Bikes Mountain Bike Rides Fantasy Island picnic table Irvington side Saturday, 10.10.15

7AM

1-1.5 hours. Will Ward is leading the ride and is a most courteous leader and all around good guy. https://www.facebook.com/events/106663106357538/
50 Year Trail/Chutes/Middle­ Gate Chase Bank

11625 North Oracle Road,

Saturday, 10.10.15

7AM

Ride  50 Year Trail from Catalina State Park, do the chutes, Middle Gate and return.  Intermediate level ride, about 24 miles, 3-4 hours with stops. http://www.meetup.com/Southern-Arizona-Mountain-Bike-Association/events/225899385/
Old Pueblo MTB: 50 Year from Golder 50 Year Golder Ranch trailhead

 

 

Sunday 10.11.15

4pm

 

We are going to hit “the chutes” as many times as time permits. Total distance is 8 miles with only one lap around the chutes. https://www.facebook.com/events/182776792057387/
Monday Night @ Fantasy Island Fantasy Island Parking Lot Monday, 10.12.15

6:30PM

Monday night ride @ Fantasy island. Plan on 2 hours.  All skill levels welcome, but you do need a good light http://www.meetup.com/Southern-Arizona-Mountain-Bike-Association/events/225224954/
Wednesday Night Ride at Robles Pass Robles Trailhead Wednes, 10.14.15 6:00pm Start at the Creosote Loop  trail, then Camaro, Bitter Sweet and  continue towards Ajo and under the culvert.             http://www.meetup.com/Southern-Arizona-Mountain-Bike-Association/events/225829872/
Next week, October 17th, the ride to do is the Bike To Build for Habitat for Humanity.   https://www.facebook.com/events/500154503483167/  or register at  http://hfht.convio.net/site/TR?fr_id=1100&pg=entry
October 30th – November 1st The Godfather of Mountain Biking Gary Fisher will be in Tucson.

Friday night will have a dinner at a restaurant to be determined for 20-25 people ($40-50).  If interested in reserving a spot please call or text 520-977-5664 (Damion Alexander)

Halloween – Saturday Morning – Ride on the AZ Trail from Gabe Zimmerman Trailhead and Costume contest

Halloween – Saturday Night –  Central ride from Trek Bicycles to TBD destination – Costume contest

Sunday – Possible start of the El Grupo Fall Fondo and definitely at Cyclovia

 

EVENTS AND VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES

What Location Date Contact

Seeking BICYCLE-THEMED ART donations to benefit BICAS. Art will be displayed at the 20th Annual Art Auction in December.

44 W. 6th St.

NOW-11.28.15

Tues-Sun

11-6pm.

http://bicas.org/art-auction/

TORCA October Prison Camp Work Day

We will be brushing, doing tread work, and working on some water bars.

Saturday   10.10.15 8AM

https://www.facebook.com/events/985435014840118/

Bicycle Advocacy Committee Public meeting

Himmel Park Library         1035 N Treat Ave,

Wednesday 10.14.15 6:00PM

Open to all.  Call to the audience if you have something to say.

Get Air – a Fundraiser for JDRF

Get Air Tucson                     330 S Toole Ave Suite 300,

Thursday 10.15.15

Mention JDRF when you sign in and 20% of your admission will be donated to my JDRF Ride team! Or go on Monday the  12th for the same dea

The Damion Alexander Team is proud to sponsor

Habitat for Humanity Bike to Build Day

3 ride options, road and MTB, all finishing with a build day for habitat for humanity.  Volunteers are needed. Riders are needed. You are neededJ

Saturday

10.17.15

6:30am Ride starts with brief welcome, then staggered start

 

http://hfht.convio.net/site/TR?fr_id=1100&pg=entry

Wendi Lucas wendil@habitattucson.org

 

Halloween Ride With Mountain Bike Legend Gary Fisher

There are going to be multiple rides.  Starting with a family costume contest ride on the AZ trail and a night ride to a bar TBD.

Saturday

10. 31. 2015

Damion Alexander 520-977-5664

Damion@damionalexadner.com

Cyclovia Tucson

Midtown Route

Sunday 11.01.2015 10am – 3pm

 

http://www.cycloviatucson.org/

El Grupo Fall Fondo

Tucson’s best Fondo.  A great time in the saddle supporting youth cycling. Sunday

11.01.2015

8AM

http://www.elgrupocycling.org/events/fall-fondo-fundraiser/
PIMA COUNTY BOND ELECTION.  If the bond passes it will have a huge impact on the cycling community.  The projects that will benefit the cyclist include the Velodrome, 2 BMX parks, The Loop (and other non-mechanized trails), repaving roads, open space for MTB trails, and new trailheads.  The cost for the average home owner will be less than $18.00 a year.  Have questions.  Please call me, Damion, at 520-977-5664.  I’ve spent hundreds of hours working on this and have facts.  If you have a concern, I’m here to answer them or direct you to the sources that are available to help you make an informed decision.
RIDE ON THE CAPITAL. January 19th 2016.

For years we have been attempting to pass legislation in Arizona for the safety of all cyclist. The time has come for all riders to unite and pay our elected officials a visit. The vision is for all bikes: Road, Mountain Bikes, Commuters, recumbent, Trikes, Unicycles and anything else you can pedal or ride to attend.

Bike shops and cycle supportive businesses from around the state will participate and have prizes for those who ride the farthest to get to the capital, those who bring the largest groups, and just random prizes for participating.

https://www.facebook.com/events/1659759360905979/

TORCA Mountain Bike Pachanga featuring the 3rd Annual Poker Ride

Gordon Hirabayashi Campground

Saturday

11.07.015

https://www.facebook.com/events/1478576809102305/

Silverbell Century

Two Weeks Before El Tour!

Options for 97, 66, and 30 miles Registration and Start 7 – 9 AM

Sunday

11.8.15

http://www.bikegaba.org/content.aspx?page_id=22&club_id=307669&module_id=137517

Bicycle Advocacy Committee Public meeting

Himmel Park Library         1035 N Treat Ave, Wednesday

11.11.15

Open to all.  Call to the audience if you have something to say.

The Sandbox Showdown

Perhaps the greatest collections of misfits, deviants, dissenters, oddballs, outsiders, and eccentric riders all in one sandy place, riding Fatbikes in a wash to be named. Saturday

11.14.15

https://www.facebook.com/SandBox-ShowDown-291037674406274/timeline/

2015 Step Out: Tucson, AZ

Walk to stop Diabetes

Rillito Downs | Event Details Sunday, November 15th 9:00 AM Sunday

11.15.15

http://stepout.diabetes.org/site/TR/StepOut/StepOutContent?fr_id=10680&pg=entry

GABA Fall Bike Swap

Parts, Bikes, accessories, friends, the swap meet has it all.  It also has a new day.  Same as The Urban Assault.  My recommendation, sign up for the UAR as it will have a stop near the Bike Swap.  Stop, shop, enjoy, let the other guy win the UA, they beer will still be there when you finish at the bike swap.

Sunday

11.15.15

https://www.facebook.com/search/str/GABA/keywords_top

Urban Assault Ride

Beer, Bikes and Big Wheels.  It’s hard to have as much fun on a bike as this ride.  It’s been away for a few years and it’s time for the Old Pueblo to welcome them back

Sunday

11.15.15

http://urbanassaultride.com/

El Tour De Tucson

Ride 104, 75,55 40 Mile Events or 11 mile, 5 mile and ¼ mile Fun Rides.

Want a free registration, a cycling jersey, training rides?  Sign up for Tu Nidito’s Ride for a child (https://www.tunidito.org/sponsored-event/ride-for-a-child/

Saturday

11.21.15

 

http://www.perimeterbicycling.com/el-tour-de-tucson/
Bicycle Advocacy Committee Public meeting Himmel Park Library   1035 N Treat Ave, Wednesday

12.9.15 6:00pm

Open meeting to the public all about bikes.

 

TIMED RIDES aka MOTIVATION aka RACES and Big Rides

Name Description Date Location Contact Info
Prescott 6’er Riders will have a 9.4 mile loop with single track, hills and switchbacks for 6 hours, oh my. 10.10.15

9:00AM

1200 Commerce Drvie Prescott, AZ

The Brownlow Trail System.

http://www.prescott6er.com/

 

Edward Jones “Tour de Ted – Tempe” 10 miles and 32 miles 10.10.15 Scottsdale, AZ AOA Parking Lot,

16447 N 91st St

Cochise County Cycling Classic 27,47,95 and 165 miles of rural roads in Southern Arizona. 10.10.15

6:30AM

3677 N Leslie Canyon Rd Douglas, AZ registration@perimeterbicycling.com
Tour de Tonopah 100Km, 65Km and a 20Km bike ride, all of which traverse the picturesque Sonoran Desert. 10.10.15

7:00AM

38201 W Indian School Rd, Tonopah, AZ Vince Evans

vince@communitybingoaz.com

623-512-8878

NICA Race #3 High School Mtn Bike racing 10.10.15

8am-3pm

McDowell Mountain Regional Park // Fort McDowell https://www.facebook.com/events/687845564693958/
Tour De Scottsdale 30 and 70 mile ride benefiting  is the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy, 10.11.15

 

Market Street in DC Ranch

Scottsdale

http://www.tourdescottsdale.net

 

The Ride430 Challenge 2014 The Ride 430 Challenge is a non-profit cycling event that helps give America’s injured military service people and their families hope and assistance as they travel the road to recovery. 10.14-17.15   Mesa, Wickenburg, Prescott, Payson, Scot, AZ http://www.freewheelfoundation.com/visit-our-events-page/the-ride430-challenge/
Tour De Bosa A 53 mile tour around the valley stopping at 7 Bosa Donut locations along the way! 10.18.15

6:30AM

7113 E 1st Ave Scottsdale, AZ bicyclehaus.com
7th Annual 100: A Ride for Jim Stenholm The 100 celebrates Jim Stenholm and the everyday heroes that do it all The 100 gives back to the children and families of fallen first responders through the 100 Club of Arizona. 10.24.15

7:00AM

Desert Horizon Park

16002 N 56th St, Scottsdale, Arizona 85254

https://www.facebook.com/events/1519370165021041/
Flat Tire Cross – at the Cranky Cross Cyclocross.  Need I say more? Saturday

10.24.15

    Globe, AZ http://azcross.com/
Nica Race 4 High School MTB league racing in Havasu Sunday 10.25.15 8am-3pm SARA Park Rodeo Grounds /Lake Havasu City SARA Park Rodeo Grounds // Lake Havasu City
Vanderkitten Woman’s Day Ride by Performance Bike 25,38, an 50 miles. This ride is open to both men and women of all abilities 10.25.15

6:30AM

8402 West Thunderbird Lane Peoria, AZ Chris Sams

ChrisSams@performanceinc.com

919-913-3635

Cycle Crit Showdown See below Sunday

10.25.15

TUCSON http://www.usacycling.org/events/getflyer.php?permit=2015-3339
    Northern AZ CX p/b Absolute Bikes See above. Saturday

10.31.15

Flagstaff http://azcross.com/
Kentucky Camp (Arizona Endurance Series) 29 and 46 mile options 11.07.15

9:00Am

AZ Trail. https://rockyroad5050.wordpress.com/kc/

 

Nica race #5 High School MTB racing Sunday

11.8.15

8am-3pm

White Tank Mountain Regional Park https://www.facebook.com/events/831598270227841/
Cave Creek Cactus Classic 23 miles of beautiful mountain and Sonoran desert trails. Sunday

11.14.15

 

6033 E Cave Creek Rd Cave Creek, AZ http://www.dfmba.org/
Triple C Cyclocross November 14/15 Tucson http://azcross.com/
El Tour De Tucson Ride 104, 75,55 40 Mile Events or 11 mile, 5 mile and ¼ mile Fun Rides.

Want a free registration, a cycling jersey, training rides?  Sign up for Tu Nidito’s Ride for a child (https://www.tunidito.org/sponsored-event/ride-for-a-child/

Sunday

11.21.15

 

Tucson http://www.perimeterbicycling.com/el-tour-de-tucson/
Picketpost Punisher 36,55,76 miles.  This is serious off road mayhem Saturday

11.21.15

PicketPost https://rockyroad5050.wordpress.com/8-picketpost-punisher/
Horse Lovers p/b Bicycles of Phoenix- Cranky Cross It has beer handoffs.  It has mud and jumping on and off bikes over obstacles Saturday

11.28.15

Phoenix http://azcross.com/
AZ endurance series 31 miles ride around the McDowell range. 61 miles will utilize the new Gooseneck trail to add in the Brown’s Ranch area. Saturday

12.05.15 7:30am

Scottsdale, Arizona. https://rockyroad5050.wordpress.com/mc6/
Race around the Farm – Cranky Cross You guessed.  It’s not a road race.  It’s not a mtn bike race.  It’s nobby tires with drop bars.  Hopefully it will be muddy. Sat/Sunday

12. 5-6.15

Gilbert http://azcross.com/
Dawn to Dusk From sun-up until the big light in the sky goes out.

15.5 mile laps.

12.12.15

7:23AM

McDowell Mountain Regional Park, Pemberton Trail http://www.dcbadventures.com/
AZ CROSS Series Finals /TREK CX State Championships C                    OSSSSSSSSSS

Y                R

C           C

L   O

 

December 19 Gilbert http://azcross.com

 

 

ADVOCACY OPPORTUNITIES – WANT BETTER BIKE INFRASTRUCTURE? GET INVOLVED.  Feel free to e-mail damion@damionalexander.com if you want to get involved in the Velodrome Committee, CASA- Cycling Advocates of Southern Arizona, GABA – Greater Arizona Bicycle Association, Sonoran Desert Mountain Bike SDMB, Tucson Off Road Cyclist & Activists TORCA, El Grupo Youth Cycling, Tu Nidito Ride For A Child.  Added bonus, I’ll be there and the pictures are free;-)

RIDE AND EVENT DISCLAIMER

These rides are not mine.  I am only sharing the data.  The Damion Alexander Team  cannot guarantee anybody’s safety.  There are unknown and unforeseen potential hazards in every ride so you should  pay attention and take reasonable precautions.  I always use a helmet.  I think that Helmets are required when riding.  If you choose to listen to music during rides you should only use the headset in the right ear and keep the headset out of the left ear. Better yet, buy a FarEnd Gear earbud.  Communication is essential during all rides and having the ability to hear is a part of your responsibility to others.  Please also ride within your limitations. You are  not racing the Tour de France.  If you see someone  that is  not riding within their limitations or are becoming a hazard to others we should politely bring this to their your attention  Dothis for your and everybody’s safety.

Also, it is everybody’s responsibility to follow all traffic laws.  We are not lemmings.  Just because somebody does something foolish does not mean you need to follow.  Use your head and enjoy your ride.

 

THE DAMION ALEXANDER TEAM, DAMION ALEXANDER, AND ANYONE ELSE WHO CONTRIBUTES TO THIS LIST SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIM RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY ACCIDENT OR INJURY THAT OCCURS ON THSES RIDES.  EVERY PERSON IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR OWN SAFETY AND THE SAFETY OF OTHERS AROUND THEM

 

WHERE DO ALL THE RIDES COME FROM?  These links and shops and clubs and teams and facebook and YOU.  See a ride that is missing.  Please let me know  Damion@DamionAlexadner.com.  Thanks

Road

*Vistoso Cyclist http://vistosocyclists.weebly.com/road-biking.html

Cactus Cycling http://www.cactuscycling.org/schedule.php

Greater Arizona Bicycle Association GABA-  http://www.meetup.com/bikegaba/events/203149392/

*Tucson Tri Girls https://www.facebook.com/groups/ttgandfriends/   http://www.tucsontrigirls.org/index.php/calendar

Zona Cyclist https://www.facebook.com/pages/Zona-Cycling/186457201423794

JKG Strava – https://www.facebook.com/groups/579397565447522/?fref=ts

U of A Cycling http://uacycling.com/

Velo Vets  Phonehttp://www.azvelovets.org/: 520-465-5186

Tuesday Night Ride https://www.facebook.com/groups/5833629539/

Bicycle Commuters of Tucson https://www.facebook.com/groups/160142187481277/

Mountain Bike

Tucson Offroad Cyclists and Activists TORCA http://torca.org/   www.facebook.com/events/

Southern Arizona Mountain Bike Association (SAMBA) www.meetup.com/Southern-Arizona-Mountain-Bike-Association

Sonoran Desert Mountain Bicyclists  https://www.facebook.com/SDMB.org   http://www.sdmb.org

Tucson Mountain Bike Addicts https://www.facebook.com/TucsonMTBAddicts \

Our MTB Rides – Dave Slagle Slaglesphone@live.com

https://www.facebook.com/groups/ourmtbrides/385655391621830/?notif_t=group_activity

Old Pueblo Mountain Bike – Todd Rasmussen 520-256-1340   https://www.facebook.com/groups/203787656312279/?fref=ts

RBAR – Jesus Friaa 520-271-3776

 

Shop Rides

Performance Bicycles Speedway Tucson – Pbs074@performaneinc.com

(520) 327-3232‎ http://www.meetup.com/Performance-Speedway-MeetNRide/events/

Performance Bicycles Broadway –  pbs054@performanceinc.com 520-296-4715

Fairwheel Bikes https://fairwheelbikes.com/tucson-arizona-location-ezp-1.html#rides  (520) 884-9018

Grasky Endurance Coaching  www.graskyendurance.com/weekly-workouts.html

Broadway Bicycles

Bicycle Ranch Tucson – http://bicycleranch.com/tucson-rides/ (  520-219-4311

Ben’s Bikes http://www.bensbikestucson.com/  520-574-2453

Recumbent

Tucson Recumbent Cyclists  https://www.facebook.com/groups/TucsonRC/?fref=ts

 

This list is a major time commitment and it is my pleasure to put it together.  All I ask in return for the list is that you remember I’m A REALTOR.  If you have a relationship with another REALTOR, I love loyalty and respect those relationships.  However, if not, or if you need a second opinion, Please keep me in mind.  Many agents spend money advertising for new business, others sit open houses or cold call.  My business is based on referrals from past clients and friends.  The less time I have to do traditional prospecting the more I can do for the cycling community.  For example: this list.

THIS LIST IS PROVIDED AT A COURTESY OF THE DAMION ALEXANDER TEAM.  THIS LIST IS DEEMED RELIABLE, BUT NOT GUARANTEED.  WHEN POSSIBLE, CONTACT INFORMATION FOR THE GROUP RIDERS ARE PROVIDED.  TAKE RESPONSIBILITY AND DOUBLE CHECK OR GO TO THE RIDE AND IF NO ONE IS THERE, GO RIDE BY YOURSELD.

Support Senate Bills for Cyclist Safety

Brendan Lyons, Executive Director of Look, Save a life Arizona has created a page on change.org to show your support for two bills that are currently with the State Senate.

The page says

“On behalf of the safety for all who utilize our public roadways, vulnerable users such as First Responders, victims of distracted driving and the families left behind to pick up the pieces, we respectfully encourage your consideration for S.B. 1102 (Texting While Driving, Prohibition) andS.B. 1302 (Vulnerable Users of Public Ways).

A texting while driving prohibition will make it unlawful for an individual operating a motor vehicle to send or read messages by means of a wireless communication device. Researchers observe that texting while driving decreases reaction time to a greater extent than drunk driving. Research like this has driven 47 states to pass legislation banning drivers from texting while driving. Arizona, the first state to propose a prohibition nine years ago, however, has failed to adopt this law.

The purpose of a Vulnerable Road User Law is to protect people who utilize the road who are not otherwise protected by being encased in the protective steel shell of a motor vehicle (First-Responders, Pedestrians, Bicyclists, Wheelchair Bound, etc.). The vulnerable user law provides for increased fines in cases where a vulnerable road user is injured or killed because of negligence or as the result of a traffic violation.

Currently, unless there is proof of gross negligence or circumstances such as alcohol or drug use, there are inadequate provisions in state law to support bringing meaningful and significant charges against the motor vehicle driver who has caused such harm to a vulnerable user.  Arizona law is far too lenient in punishing careless drivers who injure vulnerable users.  Non-motorists using a road or street have every right to expect that drivers will be alert and avoid them.  For those drivers who are unable to comply, there needs to be a provision in state law where their driving skills are called into question and penalties applied.

In 2013, a DPS Officer writing a report at an accident scene was killed by a distracted motorist driving a semi-truck. Arizona ranks among the most dangerous states in the U.S. for fatalities caused by distracted driving.  This small change in legislation will bring a renewed focus to safety for all who utilize our public byways throughout Arizona.

By signing this petition you are simply asking Arizona’s Legislature and Governor to pass a meaningful Vulnerable User law as well as a Texting/Driving Prohibition.  Thank you for taking the time to sign this petition and voice your concern.”

This is the link to sign up and show your support.  https://www.change.org/p/arizona-state-house-stand-with-first-responders-to-support-strong-anti-distracted-driving-laws?recruiter=78152858&utm_source=share_petition&utm_medium=facebook&utm_campaign=share_facebook_responsive&utm_term=mob-xs-share_petition-custom_msg&fb_ref=Default

Community Bike Ride List November 30-December 05

Last week The Damion Alexander Team shared thousands of photos from various rides and events around Tucson.  To see the photos, Look at “The Damion Alexander Team” on facebook and please like it while you are there.

This list is a major time commitment and it is my pleasure to put it together.  All I ask in return for the list is that you remember I’m A REALTOR.  If you have a relationship with another REALTOR, I love loyalty and respect those relationships.  However, if not, or if you need a second opinion, Please keep me in mind.  Many agents spend money advertising for new business, some door knock and others  cold call.  My business is based on referrals from past clients and friends.  The less time I have to do traditional prospecting the more I can do for the clients and friends you refer my team AND for  the cycling community.  For example: This list.

 

REOCCURING WEEKLY RIDES

What Where When Distance/Time Speed Contact
U of A Cycling Monday Mosey Flagpole – West Side of Old Main Monday

7:30AM

1-1.5 hours Max 20 miles www.UofAcylcling.com
Starr Pass Intervals Congress at

the Loop

Tuesday 6:15AM About an Hour Tommy Dean K7TPD@live.com

Robert Houts

Hills, Hills Hills Bashas Kolb/Sunrise Tuesday

5:30AM

20 miles

About an hour

12-14

HILLS

Damion Alexander

977-5664

Tuesday “Shootout” University/Euclid Tuesday

7:30AM

2.5 hours

40 miles

Fast www.Fairwheelbike.com
Tuesday Night Fast Fixed Ride Flagpole – West Side of Old Main Tuesday

6:30PM

Few Hours Varies Fast brownus_clarence@yahoo.com
Tuesday Night Ride Flagpole – West Side of Old Main Tuesday

8:30PM

12-18 miles Slow Facebook

Tuesday Night Bike Ride

Oro Valley Mountain Bike Oro Valley post office on Tangerine and La Canada 6:00AM 20 miles ish Tempo

1.5 hours

UA Cycling Wed.Worlds Flagpole – West Side of Old Main Wed

7:30AM

40-60 miles www.UofACycling.com
Mt. Lemmon University/Euclid Wed

7:00AM

55-60 Miles www.Fairwheelbike.com
JKG DnA Easy Udall Parking Lot Wed

5:30AM

Udall-Mile post 3 on Lemmon Casual

NoDrop

https://www.facebook.com/groups/579397565447522/?fref=ts
Cyclo-cross Ft. Lowell Park 5:45PM A few hours As fast as we can go https://www.facebook.com/groups/671108262985165/?fref=ts
Heavy Pedal Flagpole – West Side of Old Main 7:00PM Different route each week
Bike Polo UofA Mall 8:00PM https://www.facebook.com/tucson.bikepolo?fref=ts
Tim Carolan Ride Starbucks

River/Campbell

Thurs

8:00AM

46 miles 18-21 mph
Up Oracle

Thursday Shootout

University and Euclid Thurs

7:30AM

Fast www.Fairwheelbike.com
Hills, hills, hills Bashas Kolb/Sunrise Thurs

5:30AM

20 miles 12-14(but Hills) Damion Alexander

977-5664

U of A Cycling Thursday Thrill Flagpole – West Side of Old Main Thurs

6:30AM

1-1.5 hours Max 20 miles Easy Ride www.UofACycling.com
The JKG Flagship ride Le Buzz Thurs

5:30AM

Le Buzz to Molina Basin Hammer fest JKG Strava on Facebook
U OF A Cycling Friday Freewheelin Flagpole – West Side of Old Main Friday

7:30AM

2 hours

30-40 miles

Team Time Trial Practice www.UofACycling.com
Bicycle Ranch Tucson Group Bicycle Ranch at Oracle and Ina

 

Saturday 7:00AM 48 (shorter option of 35 as well) miles 17-20

MPH

Free Breakfast after ride
Oro Valley Bikes Ride Oro Valley Bikes

4749 E Sunrise

Sat

8:00AM

50 miles 17-18 MPH (520) 577-5511

John McCarrell

The

Old   Man Shootout

University and

Euclid

Saturday 7:15AM 60 Mile (can be extended to 100) Fast

20 MPH+

www.fairwheelbikes.com
The Big Boy Shootout University and

Euclid

Saturday 7:30 AM 60 Miles(can be extended to 100) Faster www.fairwheelbikes.com
Performance Broadway Shop Ride 7204 e Broadway Saturday 8:00AM 17 miles beginner 10-14

No drop

pbs054@performanceinc.com

520-296-4715

Broadway Bicycles Shop Ride Various Routes

Call Scott

Saturday 7:00AM Scott 296-7819
Miles Ahead Shop Ride Miles Ahead Tanque Verde Sabino Canyon 7:30 AM 50 plus/minus miles Fast Geoff 751-0555
Ben’s Bike Bide At Ben’s bike

7431 Houghton

8:00AM 6-10 miles Easy www.bensbikestucson.com

520-574-2453

Sabino Cycle Shop Ride Varies- email Steve to be on the list Saturday 7:30 No Drop steve@sabinocycles.com

520-

Tucson Endurance Performance Center Ride Mountain Bike Ride Contact shop for details. Different route weekly. Saturday 7:30AM www.graskyendurance.com/weekly-workouts.html

 

Tucson Endurance Performance Center Ride 6448 N Oracle

 

Sunday

7:30AM

www.graskyendurance.com/weekly-workouts.html

 

THIS WEEKS ROAD RIDES

PLEASE NOTE- Category below just for Mountain Bikes

What Location Date/Time Distance Speed Contact- More Info
 
Swan,Oracle, Twin Peaks loop Rillito Bike Path, ½ mile West of La Canada 1500 W. River Saturday, November 29, 2014

8:30 AM

52 12-16 MPH No rider left http://www.meetup.com/bikegaba/events/218890059/
Zona Cyling- EASY RIDE TO THE BRIDGE Starbucks at El Con Saturday, November 29, 2014

8:30 AM

40 https://www.facebook.com/pages/Zona-Cycling/186457201423794
The Loop – counter clock wise Rillito Bike Path, ½ mile West of La Canada 1500 W. River Sun Nov 30 8:30 58 12-16 MPH No rider left http://www.meetup.com/bikegaba/events/218890199/
GABA Pistol Hill – Julian Bike Loop Ride Morris K. Udall Park  7290 E. Tanque Verde Mon Dec 1

8:00am

55 15-16 http://www.meetup.com/bikegaba/events/218762850/
Cactus Cycling Ken’s Monday Ride Beyond Bread – corner of Oracle & Ina Mon  Nov 24  8:00AM 25-35 14-16 http://www.cactuscycling.org/event-1788710
GABA Pistol Hill Loop Ride Morris K. Udall Park Wed  Nov 26  8:00AM 47 15-16 http://www.meetup.com/bikegaba/events/218762908/
Tim’s 4th annual Thanksgiving day ride. Starbucks

1825 E River Road,Suite

Thanksgiving Day  8:00AM https://www.facebook.com/events/1509446759296491/?ref_dashboard_filter=upcoming
Pima County Fairgrounds Loop Ride Morris K. Udall Park Fri  Nov 28  8:00AM 55 15-16 http://www.meetup.com/bikegaba/events/218763264/

THIS WEEKS MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDES

PLEASE NOTE- This is New category. ^^^^Road rides are above^^^^

 

What Location Date

Time

Time Distance Speed Contact- More Info
24 Hour Course 24 hour course arch parking lot Sat Nov 29

8:00 AM

16 miles with about 1000 feet http://www.meetup.com/Southern-Arizona-Mountain-Bike-Association/events/218830684/
Riding n the Arizona Trail Gabe Zimmerman trailhead to Saurita and 83 Nov 30 8:00AM It’s out and back. Choose your distance. Dave

slaglesphone@live.com

 

Old Pueblo MTB: Urban Assault post Thanksgiving Gorge Fest

La Encantada

2905 E Skyline Dr, Tucson, Arizona 85718

Sunday

Nov 30

3:00PM

5:30PM

13.5 miles https://www.facebook.com/events/390168337804529/?ref_dashboard_filter=upcoming

 

Todd Rasmussen 520-256-1340

 

Fantasy Island Fantasy Island Parking Lot Irvington / Harrison Rds., Sun Nov 30

8:30 AM

23 miles http://www.meetup.com/Southern-Arizona-Mountain-Bike-Association/events/218831196/

 

CDO Trail Ride-

Ride from Pines to Spines off the northwest side of Mt. Lemmon.

Mt Lemmon Sunday

Nov 30

3:00PM

5:30PM

22 miles and features 21 creek crossings, roughly 6000 ft. of descent and 1000 ft. of climb. Serious backcountry trail for half the ride so hiking will be expected. https://www.facebook.com/events/696155690481004/?ref_dashboard_filter=upcoming
Monday Night @ Hope Camp Camino Loma Alta Mon Dec 1

6:30 PM

All skill levels welcome, but you do need a good light (750 lumens minimum). http://www.meetup.com/Southern-Arizona-Mountain-Bike-Association/events/218606099/
Tuesday night lights! Fantasy Island

Irvington & Harrison

Dec 2

at 6:30PM

 

2 hours https://www.facebook.com/events/1531748883734483/?ref_dashboard_filter=upcoming
50 Year/Golder Ranch TH

,

4798 E Golder Ranch Drive Wed Dec 3

6:15 PM

All skill levels welcome, but you do need a good light (750 lumens minimum). http://www.meetup.com/Southern-Arizona-Mountain-Bike-Association/events/218864122/

 

EVENTS

What Location Date Contact
GABA’s Holiday Dinner Pima County Medical Society Auditorium , Tucson, AZ

5199 E. Farness, Tucson

Monday Dec 1, 2014

7:00 to 9:00 PM

http://www.meetup.com/bikegaba/events/217608922/
 

19th BICAS Art Auction – December 2014

 

The Drawing Studio, Inc.

33 S 6th Ave, Tucson, Arizona 85701

Friday

December 5

art@bicas.org 628-7950
Bike Advisory Committee Monthly Meeting Himmel Park Library, 1035 N. Treat Avenue Second Wed

Dec 10th

 

TIMED RIDES aka MOTIVATION aka RACES and Big Rides

Name Description Date Location Contact Info
CycoXross at Horse Lovers Park by Bicycle Ranch Cyclocross Sat Nov 29 19224 N Tatum Blvd

Phoenix, AZ

http://azcross.com/Matt DeMicco

mdemicco@cox.net

Ordinary Bike Shop Strava Taco Challenge

Starting Dec.1st 12:01am through Dec. 7th 11:59pm we will be holding our first of many STRAVA challenges. Strava is an app/website that tracks your rides through GPS. We are challenging you to ride 175 miles (282 km) or more during the first week of December. Mileage will be tracked through the Ordinary Bikes Strava Club, so make sure to sign up on Strava.com and join our Strava club if you haven’t already.

Race Around the Farm Sat Dec 6 1663 E Baseline RD

Gilbert, AZ

Matt DeMicco

mdemicco@cox.net

Dawn to Dusk an endurance mountain bike event 16 mile loop. Space is limited to 125 SOLO riders, 100 TWO-Person, 50 FOUR-Person and 10 CORPORATE entries Sat Dec 6 16300 McDowell Mountain Park Dr.

Fountain Hills, AZ

Pemberton Trail

http://www.dcbaz.com/
Triple C CX Sat/Sun

Dec 13-14

4600 N Silverbell Rd

Tucson, AZ

University of Arizona

Joseph Iuliano

jiuliano88@gmail.com

AZ Cross Series Finals It’s mud, it’s dirt, it’s grass, it’s pavement, it’s on the bike off the bike Saturday

Dec 20

2155 E. Knox Rd. Crossroads Park Gilbert, AZ canisbleu@gmail.comJeff frost
TREK Arizona State CX Championship It’s more dirt, mud, grass, barriers . It’s all the fun of MTB with the racing like the road. Sunday

Dec 21

24 Hours in the Old Pueblo Burning man meets MTB race. Is this a race or a party? I say BOTH! Feb 13-15

2015

Willow Springs- An hour North of Tucson http://www.epicrides.com/index.php?contentCat=5
Tour De Cure- The Damion Alexander Team has a team for this event and is a major sponsor.   E-mail me for a free registration code! 50 and 100K rides

 

This is the motivation you are looking for to keep riding after El Tour De Tucson!

March 1, 2015 Tucson Harley Davidson

7355 Interstate 10 Frontage Rd

http://main.diabetes.org/site/TR?fr_id=10185&pg=entry&utm_source=Offline&utm_medium=Print&utm_content=tucsontour&utm_campaign=TDC&s_src=vanity&s_subsrc=tucsontour

 

BBiondo@diabetes.org | (520) 795-3711 x7112

Tucson Bicycle Classic 3 day Stage Race March 13-15

2015

McCain Loop TT

Sauharita Road

Pima CC West Crit

http://tucsonbicycleclassic.com/
Whiskey Off Road 7 races. One fun weekend. Pro Crits, kids race, 25, 50, and pro 50 races. 40K Purse. April 24 – April 26, 2015. Prescott http://www.epicrides.com/index.php?contentCat=6

 

This list is a major time commitment and it is my pleasure to put it together. All I ask in return for the list is that you remember I’m A REALTOR. If you have a relationship with another REALTOR, I love loyalty and respect those relationships. However, if not, or if you need a second opinion, Please keep me in mind. Many agents spend money advertising for new business, others sit open houses or cold call. My business is based on referrals from past clients and friends. The less time I have to do traditional prospecting the more I can do for the cycling community. For example: this list.

Cyclovia Tucson and Gaba Bike Swap

This past weekend Tucson had an incredible day for pedaling. It started with the GABA Bike Swap and continued with Cyclovia Tucson, Cyclocross and adult beverages at Tap and Bottle and in the parking lot of Ordinary Bike Shop.

I posted on my facebook page over 800 images of the day in 14 Albums. The links are below or look at The Damion Alexander Team on facebook.

These photos are a major time commitment and it is my pleasure to take the photos and share them with you. All I ask in return for the photos is that you remember I’m A REALTOR. If you have a relationship with another REALTOR, I love loyalty and respect those relationships. However, if not, or if you need a second opinion, Please keep me in mind. Many agents spend money advertising for new business, others sit open houses or cold call. My business is based on referrals from past clients and friends. The less time I have to do traditional prospecting the more I can do for the cycling community. For example: these photo albums.

Cyclovia Tucson Fall 2014 Album 1

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154804712790154.1073742157.228735085153&type=3

Cyclovia Tucson Fall 2014 Album 2

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154806308815154.1073742161.228735085153&type=3

Cyclovia Tucson Fall 2014 Album 3

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154807970405154.1073742162.228735085153&type=3

Cyclovia Tucson Fall 2014 Album 4

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154809621935154.1073742164.228735085153&type=3

Cyclovia Tucson Fall 2014 Album 5

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154811067035154.1073742166.228735085153&type=3

Cyclovia Tucson Fall 2014 Album 6

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154811601795154.1073742167.228735085153&type=3

Cyclovia Tucson Fall 2014 Album 7

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154813128545154.1073742168.228735085153&type=3

Cyclovia Tucson Fall 2014 Album 8

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154815333815154.1073742170.228735085153&type=3

Cyclovia Tucson Fall 2014 Album 9

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154816546715154.1073742172.228735085153&type=3

Cyclovia Tucson Fall 2014 Album 10 https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154817214695154.1073742174.228735085153&type=1

Fall Bike Swap 2014 Album 1

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154804820735154.1073742158.228735085153&type=3

Fall Bike Swap 2014 Album 2

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154806256005154.1073742160.228735085153&type=3

Fall Bike Swap 2014 Album 3

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154808058790154.1073742163.228735085153&type=3

Fall Bike Swap 2014 Album 4

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10154810979930154.1073742165.228735085153&type=3

Meeting At UAMC Hospital room with Deputy Art Gutierrez

Lorena Evan, Brendan Lyons, Rep. Ethan Orr and Senator Steve Farley meeting with Deputy Gutierrez to discuss bike safety laws.
Lorena Evans, Brendan Lyons, Rep. Ethan Orr and Senator Steve Farley meeting with Deputy Gutierrez to discuss bike safety laws.

50 weeks ago I went to UAMC- Diamonds Children center to see Brendan Lyons after he was in a collision on his bike while riding his bike on East Sunrise.   A few days later I orchestrated the media and a meeting in Brendan’s hospital room  with Senator Steve Farley and Representative Ethan Orr to discuss laws for cyclist safety.  As a result, we introduced 4 bills in the state legislature last year.  Unfortunately, not even one made it out of committee. Brendan and I have spent hundreds of hours in the past year trying to find ways to make cycling safer. Yesterday, El Tour de Tucson announced that Brendan and his girlfriend, Lorena Evans, who was also in the collision, are the honoree for the 2014 El Tour De Tucson.  Wednesday night, at 9:30 Brendan called me and told me that he had met with Office Art Gutierrez, who was struck from behind this week and at UAMC.  After burning the midnight oil, Thursday morning, life came full circle and I found myself at UAMC with the media, Rep Orr, Senator Farley, Brendan and Lorena.  This time in the hospital room we also had Pima County Sherriff Deputy Art Gutierrez,  his daughter, Cynthia,  girlfriend, Delia, as well as some of the Sherriff Department brass.

Brendan asked the Deputy if he would like his story shared.  Like so many people who serve our country, Art was willing to put his personal suffering aside if it might help save someone else.

His daughter Cynthia and son Alex are also cyclist.  They recently rode in El Tour De Mesa as a family and finished in about 3 and a half hours.  Cynthia was the first member of the family to get into cycling  7 years ago.  Art got on the bike because of her 5 years ago.  She recalled with a smile that in the first El Tour she rode with her Dad that it took them 8 hours.  In 2013 they had shaved over an hour and a half off that time.  Alex got on the bike last year and this year they were expecting to be even faster.  Delia also caught the bike fever and recently bought a bicycle.

The details of the accident are only too familiar.  A driver came up behind the Deputy and struck his Bike from Behind.  Statistically, this type of collision is the most common to result in a death.  All things considered, it looks as if Deputy Gutierrez  got off with only “minor” injuries ( If spending  days in the hospital and not knowing when you will be released are minor) He has no recollection of the actual collision and woke up in the hospital.

The following is from the interviews Deputy Gutierrez:

Deputy Gutierrez, much like Brendan after his accident talked a lot about how safety is every ones responsibility.  Both  the cyclist and the motorist.

He said it was “surprising” waking up at UAMC, he had no clue what had happened.

He is “hurting, sore, his body hurts, feeling down,  but feels fortunate that he is here.  Fortunate to be alive.  To know he will recover.  Thankful for his family and his co-workers. “

He has no broken bones, but possibly had a small stroke that has led to a lack of feeling on the right side of his body.  He has road rash all over his body.

When asked if he was going to get back on his bike he replied “as soon as I can,  It is something I really enjoy, I want to go back”.

Asked about the accident and who was at fault and how the Sherriff Department would investigate he said that the Dept.  will do a full investigation but that he has no recollection of what happened. A full investigation will be conducted to determine who was at fault.  He stated again that sometimes it is the cyclist, but that the investigation will determine the fault.

The driver did stick around after the collision.

The collision was on Tanque Verde between Houghton and Tanque Verde Loop.  He was on his way to ride up Mt. Lemmon to mile 4 or 5.  He had only gone about 3 miles on his ride.

When asked about stricter laws for motorist he said “there is a lot of impatience with todays drivers and not just with cyclist but with pedestrians … and with social media, people distracted constantly talking on the phone, texting, doing whatever they do… I see it every day as a patrol officer, I see it every day, but I also see the bikes making the same mistakes being dangerous and the pedestrians J walking and can’t wait,… we need to be more patient.  What the drivers need to understand is they are in a 4000 pound piece of moving machinery, if you hit a person they lose.”

He would like to see something done for the texting and the cell phone use for drivers.  Personally he finds it annoying and sees it all the time.  “Driving is a privilege, not a right.”

One thing that was very clear during the interview was how level headed and patient he is.  He understands that the solution is patients and understanding with efforts from everyone who uses the roads.  Perhaps if everyone can have a mindset like that, we could truly create an environment that is safer for everyone.  I’m so thankful that Deputy Art Gutierrez will make a full recovery and hope his spirit and ideas will spread throughout the Pima County Sherriff Dept.

Benefit at Old Chicago for Brendan Lyons and Lorena Evans

I received a call today from Brendan Lyons.  He was all choked up and asked me if I knew the news and had I seen TucsonVelo.com.  He was fairly emotional and I have to admit that bad toughts came to my mind.  Was someone else hit?  Was there some bad news?  I quickly pulled up he facebook page and saw it referred to an event that was created to benefit Lorena and Brendan(event info posted at the bottom of this post).  In his typical form, he went off talking about how all he wanted to do was help out the community and how humbling this was.  He was so touched the community would do anything like this to help him out.

I was aware of the event and had talked with Craig Honeker , who created the facebook event.  He rides on the Tri-sport team and he and Ryan Hartman had been looking at some ways to help Brendan and Lorena.  The event was created and some incredible donations have started to come in that will be raffled or auctioned off.  According to facebook posts they include:   CHECK BACK HERE AND I’LL UPDATE THE LIST.

Mike McKisson of TucsonVelo.com is offering up 6 months of advertising for the raffle. The person who wins will get a display ad on the site for six months with a link to their business or organization.   In the last month they have had 19,000 visits from 13,500 different cyclists mostly from Tucson. The normal value is $1,200.

Looks like we’ll have some additional items to raffle courtesy of TriSports.com! Thank you Seton Claggett and Debbie Feldner Claggett

 

970382_10151866696652508_2470264_n

Jimmy Bees 20/24 black DT aero comp spokes. Sapin hex head alloy nipples. Rims are tubeless compatible. Shimano/sram 10spd

If you have something you would like to donate look up the page on facebook and comment, or if you are not on facebook, contact the BikePilgrim at 520-977-5664 or email damion@damionalexander.com and I’ll put you in touch with the event organizers.

THE INFO FROM THE FACEBOK EVENT SAYS “Benefit for Brendan Lyons & Lorena Evans”  https://www.facebook.com/events/595154987208909/595704070487334/?notif_t=like

“As many of you know, Brendan Lyons and Lorena Evans were hit by a car last Friday while riding, and Brendan has suffered severe injuries. We are going to have a very informal benefit this Sunday at Old Chicago to:

– Try to raise some funds for Brendan and Lorena, as they get through these difficult times.

– Gather well wishes for the two of them (we’ll have card(s) that you can sign)

– Brendan is going to need our support over the long term, so we’ll be talking about how we can all do that.

– Let them know that the cycling community has them in their hearts!

Please join us on Sunday at 6:00 PM at Old Chicago (Campbell south of Glenn) and offer whatever support you can. All monies raised will go directly to Brendan and Lorena.

We’ll also have a card and donation jar at TriSports (4495 S Coach Dr) on Friday and Saturday if you’re unable to make it on Sunday.

Please send the invite to everyone who rides a bike! Thanks for your support of the Tucson Cycling Community!”

Making Lemonade out of Lemons

This is a more of a mini novel than a blog.  It contains the interview with Brendan Lyons and Lorena Evans about a collision with a car on October 4, 2013 . Also, interviews with Senator Farley and Representative Orr about what bike laws we might be able to create in the next legislative session..  My break down on why this all came together.  Having been there for the entire time and seeing the final news reports, it is incredible how 45 minutes is condensed into a 2 minute segment.  I tried to omit nothing to give a more in depth perspective (perhaps too much).

Brendan Lyons Bike

0
Share this image
more SlingpicPowered by

 

My good friend Brendan Lyons was hit by a car while riding his bike last week with his girlfriend Lorena Evans.  Lorena got off easy with a broken wrist (at least that’s all that I know she hurt).  Brendan on the other hand ended up In the Hospital and is still there.

Brendan is a fire fighter with rural metro and the founder of Look!Save a life/ Arizona  This is what Brendon says s the purpose of Look!  “Look! Save a Life / Arizona is a campaign to promote cycling safety and awareness. Many cyclists are unaware of, or choose not to ride according to the laws which govern the use of public roads. Most drivers only expect to see other cars on the road, or even deny the right of cyclists to be on the road at all. (Or worse yet, feel cyclists should not be on the roads at all.) That creates a disconnection between what drivers expect and what cyclists do on the road. These problems culminate in at best, apathy towards cyclists, and at worst, deliberate, hostile, unsafe, and possibly fatal confrontations between drivers and cyclists. My hope is to “Realize that we can not change personalities, but to help in better changing the “attitudes” drivers and cyclists have for one another.”

look

0
Share this image
more SlingpicPowered by

 

I went to visit Brendan at UAMC Diamond’s Children in his hospital room.  For some time I have helped him manage the facebook page for Look! Save a Life. I have known many cyclist who have spent time in ER and the hospital, but this is the first time I went down to see if I could help (I’ve never been a huge fan of hospitals, I was told as a kid the best way to stay healthy was to avoid hospitals and I have been living that lifestyle).

Even with the pain meds, I could see the grimace on his face every few sentences, but his mind was clear and we had a very long conversation.   We talked about what he remembered from the crash, nothing.   My favorite topic after a bike crash.  How was his bike?  Shattered in 13 plus pieces.  Where it happened?  Sunrise heading East before Kolb.  One point was very clear.  He wanted to find a way to make this into a positive experience.  The question he wanted to know was how could he help save even one life  or prevent one collision as a result of his current situation.  The conversation went to how Look! Save a Life could get recognition and use his misfortune for the benefit of the community.  We went over the downside to being public, but he was set on doing anything that could to save someone from the anguish he was going through.

Together we discussed what he wanted to see.  Laws that really protect cyclist!  A state wide no texting while driving law!  A hands free law!!!!!  Expanding the 3 foot to a 5 foot wide passing law and more teeth and penalties for cars who hit a cyclist.

After we had the idea the rest fell on me.   Fortunately, I have great political connections on both sides of the isle in the state legislator and know the Representatives and Senators who believe in protecting the safety of cyclist. ( If anyone has 1ooK and want’s to support me for a year I’ll become a full time bike lobbyist for the state of Arizona) Both Senator Steve Farley and Representative Ethan Orr were willing to shuffle their schedules to meet with Brendan to talk about the laws we discussed.

With the assistance of Katie Riley from UAMC and Grant Cesarck from Rural metro we were able to coordinate the logistics of bringing news crews in the hospital and to get a press release out.  THANK YOU Katie and Grant!

Everything went very well and KVOA and KGUN both sent crews out.  KOLD was not able to make it, but we might do another interview in a few days.  AZ Daily Star sent a reporter as well.  Senator Farley, Representative Orr, Karen Mlawsky, CEO of UAMC, Andy Theodorou, MD, Chief Medical Officer of UAMC all attended the meeting.

Senator Farley, Representative Orr, Lorena Evans, Brendan Lyons,  Karen Mlawsky, Andy Theodorou, MD.

Share this image
more SlingpicPowered by

Senator Farley, Representative Orr, Lorena Evans, Brendan Lyons, Karen Mlawsky, Andy Theodorou, MD.