Training Race #1, Clinton MT

Today was the first outing of the year, a 30-ish mile training race. The MJCF had 3 of the team riders in attendance, Eijai (CMJC), Lucca (5 Valley Velo), & Wyatt (CMJC).

All 3 riders rode in the "B" group, which looked to be 20-30 riders strong.

Lucca had an early flat, but after getting a spare wheel from Wyatt he was able to get back into the group as they passed on lap 2. After that he showed that he is a going to make some more waves this year.

Wyatt & Eijai spent the race learning to work together as well as learning to work with the rest of the Cat 4 riders. Eijai got suckered into following an illegal and extremely dangerous pass over the yellow line. After the race he received some extra "Coaching" from the Queen of the Peloton herself, Tamara. I believe that is something that we will not see again from Eijai. After moving from the Junior field to Cat 4 this year, they both seemed to be up to the challenge. Drawing the short straw before the race, Eijai led Wyatt to a near perfect sprint at the end. But since they got derailed by a crash right before the finish, it was more for practice then actual results.

3 weeks to go until the first out of State race, The Frozen Flatlands in Spokane. Riders need to let the Road Director (juniors@montanacycling.net) know your intentions if you have not already done so. The MJCF cut-off date is March 20th, otherwise you will have to pay your own way and apply for reimbursement when we get home.

As the uniforms are not going to be in for Spokane, we will be wearing the 2008 Hammer kit.

The Hammer Van & trailer will be leaving from Missoula @ 4pm on April 3rd, returning Sunday evening. I will know what the rider's portion for the trip will be by March 27th.

Jersey Design has been chosen for 2009, Here it is.

Welcome onboard to our new Co- Team title sponsor Mexitana tortillias.

Hammer nutrition shorts will round out the uniform.

Final paperwork and team fees need to be turned in ASAP, If not you may not have a uniform, and you will not be able to race.

March 21st & 28th are the dates for the MJCF sponsored training races. These training races help fund our racing throughout the season, and as such we will need help from riders families. Family members are asked to attend, as we will need corner marshalls, traffic control and wheel cars.

March 21st is a 32 mile race, with 4 laps on an 8 mile loop.
March 28th is a 40 mile race, with 5 laps on an 8 mile loop.

All riders need to submit paperwork and team membership fee prior to the first race.

• Junior team riders fee is $25.00
• U23 team fee is $50.00
• fee includes 1st jersey & shorts

Out of state racing will start with the Frozen Flatlands on April 4th & 5th in Spokane, WA. We will be leaving from Missoula at 4pm on April 3rd. Return will be after the final race in which our riders compete, we will stay for rider awards as necessary.

Riders will need to sign up with the Road operations manager (juniors@montanacycling.net) prior to MARCH 20th if you are going to attend. (See team handbook for rules reguarding sign up for out of state racing).