For those of you who aren't already using it, Strava is a fantasic way of sharing your rides.  We've added a link right from our homepage (look on the right of the screen next to "Follow Us") to the MIVA Club on Strava.  This free web-based program allows users to upload ride data from Garmin devices or via iPhone and Andriod apps.  Once your rides are uploaded, it will automatically show leaderboards for existing timed segments and allows you to create your own segments to see how you compare against other riders.  Some of the members have been using Strava for a few weeks now and are hooked; it's great motivation to get out there and pile on the miles.  Click here to go to Strava's main page.  

Canbicuba does a lot for Cuban cyclists getting into racing and is constantly sourcing stuff for their young riders. Right now they need a small (52cm or near) road bike. If anyone has such a beast that is not needed, please contact Peter Marshall at peter@canbicuba.com.  He will be delighted to hear from you. For more information on Canbicuba and their programmes, go here

Many clubs have some of their experienced adult riders act as coaches to the youth members. this is a great way to fast -track the skills development for the kids. However, there is an appropriate way to use this.  In some instances, the rider coaches have actually ridden with the youngsters in races. This is a definite "No-no!" In any competition situation, there should not be anyone in the group who is not actually entered in the event. This can materially affect the result and is also a big threat to safety.  The only time when coaches should be actually riding together with their proteges is in a session specifically set up for skills development. For example, if a course has been prepared for a criterium, the youth riders can ride with their coach(es) on the circuit before the racing starts to practice cornering, pace line drills, sprints and breakaway attempts.  During the senior race, rather than chatting or even leaving, they should be on the sidelines with their mentors, watching the experienced riders and discussing what they observe.

This Tuesday (July 12th.),  Shaw Cable are sending out a crew to cover the regular Boxwood youth and senior criteriums. Having a good number of entries for both as well as some of the club members showing up as spectators will make a really good impression.  MIVA 2012 membership is presently  eighty-five  so the club should be able to have lots of members out.

BC Coaches Week week is being hosted by Pacific Sport this September. For more information and to register, go here.