CRCA Women’s Clinic 2011 On June 5th, Radical Media teamed up with Fuoriclasse Racing-Discover Chiropractic to host the women's introduction to racing clinic—a simulated 3-lap race around Central Park. Many racers got their start at this annual event, including Evelyn Stevens who has skyrocketed into highest ranks of the international circuit in a few short years.

It was a great turnout with 35 women sacrificing their weekend sleep for the early-dawn race. Backgrounds varied from recreational cyclist to triathlete to women making do with borrowed bikes. Before the line-up, Radical Media’s Ashley Prine calmed nerves with a pre-race instructional talk. Veteran CRCA racers did a great job with the peloton providing support, encouragement and coaching throughout.

From start to finish, strong riders maintained a high pace. Attacks on the west-side rollers spiced up each lap while the field successfully chased them down. Prime winners--Stephanie Kaplan, Marylynne Wrye, and Maria Mahn--rocked it on Cat’s Paw, shedding a few more riders from the field. A breakaway group at the final climb up Harlem Hill couldn't maintain their advantage but they led the field to the finish. Race winner Stephanie Kaplan went for it early--at the bottom of Cat's Paw--followed close behind by Sara Herman and Luci Olewinski for 2nd and 3rd for a long sprint finish at the Met.

A recap and Q&A session with cycling coach Tara Parsons followed the race along with prizes and goodie bags generously donated by members of CRCA, and our product and bike shop sponsors. Prizes included private coaching from Ann Marie Miller, coaching and a bike fit session from David Taylor (both on Fuoriclasse Racing-Discover Chiropractic), a massage from cyclist Betsy Hafkin, a signed HTC jersey from Evelyn Stevens, products from the Sportique skin care line and a gift certificate from Bicycle Habitat. To reward the newbie racers for their efforts and courage, all participants received products from Peanut Butter and Co., Accenture water bottles, Fluid Recovery, and Clif. Many thanks for all of your support.

All in all, a great day for bike racing.