I know it’s been a while since we last spoke..Yesterday, myself and about 6 other teammates participated in the MS Cook Forest tour. What an amazing ride..Riding with our Co Captain Mike Houston, we got off to a little earlier start and rode the 35 mile course in under 2 hours…Pretty cool…

This year the Champions for MS Team will close out the season riding over 70+ riders, and delivering between $26-$28K…Very respectable, and still finishing 6th in the friends and family division, and 8th overall for the Escape to the Lake tour…Our 3 year total since becoming a friends and family team is over $118K, and our 8 year total brings us closer to over $400K…Pretty amazing…

In the coming weeks we will be publishing a team survery, which will help us reinvent, ourselves once more..

I will also look to build a new organizing team, which will help us become a more dominant  player in the MS Bike tour series..

In the coming weeks we will also share with you a new twist on our vision for this team..Kind of a new look at how we train, what events we ride, and when…

In 2012 and 2013, we will be losing our cute red headed sag driver, as she gears up and begins making her transition from sag driver, to riding her first MS tour in September 2012, and then embarking on her first Escape to the Lake in 2013…It is my personal goal to train her for these events…

Thank you all so much! 

Heart..Determination…Courage…We are “Champions for MS”.

-Jeff H.

 Ok, everyone we are now 7 weeks out…If you are planning on registering before registration goes up to $45 on 5/2….Now is the time…As much as I would love to have you join us, time is running out, and my priority now is to my registered riders, volunteers, sponsors, and MS….

My obligation to every rider is to insure that everyone who rides with us is safe, and competent on the road and to make sure that you have everything you need to make this your most memorable tour ever…

 Someone asked me the other day, why I place so much emphasis on safety and why I communicate as much as I do…Here is the deal, I could not live with myself if any one of my riders were injured because of something I could have prevented…In the coming weeks I will share with you over 32 years of riding experience…If I can give you one thing take with you that might make you better, safer, stronger, or more compassionate, then as your captain I have done my job….To be honest, I ride as much for you my teammates, as I ride for MS…For without you there would be no team…As I see it, it’s my privilege to be your captain…

 Registration is easy just click on the following links :

 MS Escape to The Lake June 11^th and 12^th  :

http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Bike/PAXBikeEvents?team_id=221341&pg=team&fr_id=15151

 Cook Forest Registration is -NOW OPEN -September 17th–Mike Houston – Captain

 http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR?pg=team&fr_id=16222&team_id=250752

 Mother nature has not been cooperative, well I guess that’s why god made us water proof… In the coming weeks unless there is severe weather in the area, I will not cancel a ride from 5/1 on. As I see it now, we will be riding through the week of the tour, to make sure everyone has the miles, and is capable of riding this event safely….

  You need to develop those good habits, which will help you successfully complete your ride…

 If you have not been on the bike yet, in a very short time you will experience the famous “Oh Sh#T Factor”, in other words very shortly, you will realize that “Oh Sh#T, I have to ride this thing in X of number of weeks…Well relax there is still plenty of time to ride..It’s ok to be a little nervous, but as my wife of thirty two years would say “ Jeff just shut up and ride the damn bike”..You know how to do this…She’s right I do, and if you don’t I will help you….After riding 36 of these I know I can help you if you have the courage to come out and ride with us…

 Why is it important to come out on training rides? Simply, said , It’s safer…I do not encourage riders to ride by themselves…When we go out as a group we will teach you proper road etiquette, and techniques which will make you a stronger, safer rider..We will teach you how to stretch your limits without going beyond them and thereby not putting yourself or other riders in danger… There are just way to many distractions on the road today…

 Ok, today we are 49 riders strong, I’m ok with that, because I know that those of you who are with us are riding for the right reasons…And that’s

Group Hug

what counts..

 Why train…Simple..Ask yourself this one question..

How do I want to feel at the end of each day?

Remember the stronger you are the safer you are..

 Here are some of my favorite tips, call them things I wish I knew when I started in this sport some 30+ years ago.

 Here is your mantra from this day on :

Eat before you’re hungry, and drink before you’re thirsty..

 1.) Make sure you are hydrating throughout the day.

2.) Eat 1-2 hours before ride time. Eat a good breakfast before longer Saturday and Sunday rides.
3.) Think about logging your mileage-training diaries, are a great way to keep you motivated, as well as help you understand what works for you, when you are riding and feeling well. Track your mileage, how you feel, how difficult the course was.

4.) Work on developing leg speed. Climbing in the saddle, and spinning a low gear faster, will save energy over a long ride.

5.) Always shift 1-2 gears lower than you actually need when climbing, you can always shift up if you need to. That way you never run out of gears on a longer climb.

6.) When climbing in the saddle, shift your weight to the back of the bike, maximizing leg extension, while keeping your chest open.

7.) Keep your breathing relaxed.

8.) Never look to the top of a hill..Don’t psych yourself out on longer hills, focus 3-4 feet off your front wheel.

9.) Drink before you’re thirsty..Eat before your hungry..

10.) Get used to eating and drinking on the bike. Now while training is the time to find out what energy drinks, and foods will work for you on longer rides.

11.) If using a hydrations system, like Camel Back, start training with it now..

12.) Carry a third water bottle in your jersey pocket.

13.) On cooler days(temps 50’s)wear tights,cycling knickers, or leg warmers,also use Ben gay or Tiger balm on your knees to warm up before riding.

14.) Now is the time to try energy and electrolyte replacement products like (Gue, Shot Blocks, Elixer from Camel back, Gatorade. These products will help replace nutrients used up during the tour. See me before training rides, as I do have samples of many of these products in my van.

15.) Stretch before each ride, particularly after hard efforts.

16.) Always carry an extra tube, Tire irons, and a dollar bill with you. A dollar bill can repair a slashed tire casing, long enough to get you to a rest stop.

17.) Never descend faster, than you are comfortable. If you start descending too fast, sit upright, and apply a gentle rear brake.

18.) Always make sure quick releases on wheels are closed securely on the left side of the bike.

19.) Always double check tire pressure before a ride.

20.) USE SUN SCREEN. Sunburns can mess up a great ride.

21.) Wear a bandana, cycling hat, or sweat band under your helmet.

22.) If your toes are numbing up during a ride and you are riding with toe clips or clipless pedals, you are not pulling up enough on the pedal stroke, wiggle your toes periodically.

23.) Wear a cycling shoe or stiff sole light hiker to reduce foot fatigue.

24.) Buy a bike computer.

25.) When descending, shift your weight to the back of the bike, to provide better control . Do not shift your weight forward over the front wheel.

26.) Practice stretching on the bike.

27.)Don’t think of riding the MS 150 as riding 150 miles. Ride it from rest stop to rest stop. Break the ride into pieces
Think like this : Day one – 0-6.5, 6.5-23.9, 23.9-42.55, 42.55-55.6, 55.6-69.3, 69.3-82.1 – Finish Day one Yippee!!!
Day two – 0-12.3, 12.-26.4, 26.4-41.7, 41.7-53, 53-64.2 —–Congratulations You finished your MS 150.

28.)Vary your riding position, and move your hands frequently.

29.)Eat steadily throughout the day.

30.)Bring rain gear ( I did not want to put this in but). Hope for the best and plan for the worst…

31.)Have your bike tuned up 2-3 weeks before the ride.

32.)Over hydrate the week before the tour. 10-12, 8 oz glasses of water per day.

33.)If you need to do fast food, the most nutritious fast foods are Chinese, Mexican and Italian, if chosen wisely they tend to have less fat and more energy yielding carbs. One caution is they also tend to have more sodium.

34.)If you ride more than 2 hours per day, increase your intake of complex carbs by 60-70%.

35.)Set your sports watch to go off every ten minutes to remind you to drink.

36.)Make it easier to eat on the bike, by cutting food into bite size pieces.

37.)Don’t stay longer than 10 minutes in each rest stop..No more than 30 for lunch.

38.)If you start getting tired, don’t think of the distance ahead, think of what’s around you, and focus on technique and staying relaxed.

39.)Stay Alert..Be aware of what riders around you are doing. Listen as well as look for traffic.

40.)Always announce your intentions using hand signals, and verbally. Turns, slowing, on your left, etc.

41.)If you are harassed by a motorist, do not get confrontational, write down or memorize their license plate number, and call the police.

42.)If confronted by a dog, do not try to out run them, yell SIT, or Stay, and dismount your bike. Keeping your bike between you and the dog..If the dog persists, spray them with your water bottle.

43.)Chamois butter-prevents chaffing on those soft tissue areas, which come in contact with the saddle.

44.) Always wear sunglasses or cycling eyewear, road debris or bugs can really mess up a perfectly good day of riding. Also different colored shields can bring out the contours of the pavement.

45.)Wear cycling gloves to prevent your hands from numbing up.

46.)If riding a hybrid or flat bar road bike invest in bar ends to provide more hand positions.

47.)Remember no matter how bad you feel during the ride, there is always someone feeling worse.. On a ride of this type there is always someone to ride with…Work together…It’s ok to walk a hill or us a sag wagon.Together you all finish.

48.)Look for teammates at rest stops. No one should ride alone.

49.) Remember why we are doing this ….

50.) Enjoy the ride.

 Team Business – Much to Talk about here

 1.)  Team Jerseys – Will ship the week of 5/23  to the DSG offices and I will  distribute as soon as they hit, stay tuned.

2.)  Team Jersey Re-Order – For those of you who would like a team jersey, but missed the deadline, we have the ability to do a reorder, but need to hit a 15 unit minimum, please let me know if there is interest to open a reorder up. These jerseys would arrive in time for the Cook Forest event in September. Have not heard from anyone on this as of yet>>>

 3.)     Team Discounts – Attached is a coupon from Primal for 20% off any purchases (non custom) on their web-site made between now and 12/31/2011. See the attached coupon and coupon code.

4.)  Trek of Pittsburgh Discount – 20% off accessories – See Paul Kopko at the Trek Store in Robinson.

5.)   Team Tent –  As we have done each year, we will be hosting a Team Tent at the Team Village . Laurie Strachan will once again be leading this year’s effort, if you or someone you know is interested in helping Laurie out, please email me . As a team we are getting bigger each year, and nothing is better than a smiling friendly face when you finish, along with treats and cold beverages. Or if you would like to contribute baked goods, treats or beverages, please let me know.

6.) Bike Quality Control : This is for your own safety :

   > MS does not require Bike checks any longer however I would strongly encourage all riders to have their bikes tuned up at the start of the season and just before the ride. It will make you and the riders around you safer.

7.)      Training Rides : Well the weather stinks , but welcome to Pittsburgh.. J We get what we get, and in May, we may get wet…Time to pray to the weather gods…NOW….

Tuesday through Friday  – Imperial PA. 5:30-6:00 PM Meet by the ball fields on McClarren road, ( Mile 8 on The Montour Trail). All levels welcome . 12-20+ Miles. Right now it does not look good, but I will make the call on Twitter 1 hour before ride time..Check out the front page of our team web site…

If a ride is cancelled we will announce it on Twitter check out the Team web-site for updates :

www.championsforms.com

 Saturday and Sunday, North Park – 9:30 AM, note the time change, park by the Basketball courts next to the ice skating rink..25-30 Miles..We may have more than one group depending on our numbers…One group in the park, and another which will ride a longer rout out of the park..All levels welcome.We will test a new rout riding out of the park of 35 + miles..I am driving this rout this weekend…Bring enough food and energy drinks, I will have cue sheets, and we may get lost…But I will have my trusty GPS, and who cares we all need the miles don’t we J????

 8.)       Team Ride Dedication – This is a big deal, in the coming weeks I will be asking that we as a team dedicate our ride in support of a teammate…More on this under separate cover next week…

9.)       Early Registration Package Pick Up – Mark your Calendars June 1^st  12:00-7:00 at Trek in Robinson. You will be able to turn in funds and take care of all of that nasty day of registration stuff. 10 days before the tour…

 Remember HOPE is the four letter word those with MS live for…..In the end it’s up to all of us…Together, we are invincible…. What we achieve each year is because of your selflessness and hard work…

We can do it again…..

It’s up to us….

You will remember your first MS150…..

Heart..Determination…Courage…We are ”Champions for MS”…

-Jeff H.

 This week we offered 4 days of good riding ..

 Guess what everyone we are now 9 weeks out, and MS still needs your help…We are now 47 riders strong for The Escape to The Lake tour and with our Cook Forest Team currently we are at 2 riders…Think about why we do this event, remember why you need to do this event..Remember your first one..

Ride..Volunteer..Sponsor…I need your help…

 Those living with and fighting MS, need your help…

 This year we as team we will offer 2 ride options, out of the three events this chapter offers. In fact if there is a Teammate willing to lead a Keystone Country Ride Team, I would support that as well.

 There is still time to register….

 Registration is easy just click on the following links :

 MS Escape to The Lake June 11^th and 12^th  :

http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Bike/PAXBikeEvents?team_id=221341&pg=team&fr_id=15151

 Cook Forest Registration is -NOW OPEN -September 17th–Mike Houston – Captain

 http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR?pg=team&fr_id=16222&team_id=250752

 Keystone Country Ride July 23^rd and 24^th – How would you like to captain a team for us here?

  http://bikepax.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Bike/PAXBikeEvents?fr_id=15451&pg=entry

  If you have not ridden with us in a while, come back and join us once again. Check out our team video from last year’s ride.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8DcKes7HvmY

 If you know of someone who has a passion for helping those with MS, please pass this email along and join us for a life changing event….

 Now it’s all about training and fundraising, this past week, we got in four training rides…

 Why train…Simple..Ask yourself this one question..

How do I want to feel at the end of each day?

Remember the stronger you are the safer you are..

 Today I am going to introduce to a group of riders, who you will get to know and love…

Get to Know and Love MO….

 They are the members of the “MO Cycling Team”, every time we ride, whether you realize it or not you need to be riding with MO…MO will make you a better rider for MS..

 -Mo Desire – This Mo helps you dig down deep inside..

 -Mo Distance / Mo Miles-This MO, is what gets you to the finish at the end of 2 days. Get to know and love Mo Miles…

 -Mo Time – This Mo, is precious and you need to make the best use of every moment…

 -Mo training-This Mo is what gets you there..

 -Mo Leg Strength-This Mo turns flats into a runway for you to take off and fly, this MO also makes mountains seem small.

 -Mo Leg Speed-Mo leg speed will help you spin those lower gears faster, and shrink those hills with every mile..

 -Mo Intervals-Mo Intervals, will help you build that all important endurance  needed to close out a ride.

 -Mo Hydration-Mo Hydration will make sure you drink before you’re thirsty and eat before hungry.

 -Mo Nutrition – This Mo will make sure you eat before your hungry, and make sure you are eating the right things to fuel your machine…

 -Mo Alert-Mo Alert will help you see things on the road and react before it’s too late.

 -Mo Commitment-Mo Commitment will remind you from time to time as to why we are here. As a team we are committed to fighting MS.

 -Mo Heart-Mo Heart will help you dig down deep when you think you have nothing left.

 -Mo Discipline-Mo discipline will help you develop those good habits, and ultimately turn good rides into great rides…

 -Mo Courage-Mo Courage will help you and those around you with that inner strength needed to overcome adversity…People with MS know Mo Courage well…

 -Mo Energy-Mo Energy is who you will meet as the  season progresses and you get stronger with every mile.

 -Mo Compassion-Mo Compassion will help you look out for your teammates and other riders on the road, and from time to time inspire you as to why you need to do this.

 -Mo Team – Bike MS is a team event and together we cannot lose…

 Together with MO we can all have as safer more enjoyable tour….

  Team Business – Much to Talk about here

 1.)       Team Jerseys – Will ship the week of 5/23  to the DSG offices and I will  distribute as soon as they hit, stay tuned.

2.)       Team Jersey Re-Order – For those of you who would like a team jersey, but missed the deadline, we have the ability to do a reorder, but need to hit a 15 unit minimum, please let me know if there is interest to open a reorder up. These jerseys would arrive in time for the Cook Forest event in September.

3.)     Team Discounts – Attached is a coupon from Primal for 20% off any purchases (non custom) on their web-site made between now and 12/31/2011. See the attached coupon and coupon code.

 4.)       Trek of Pittsburgh Discount – 20% off accessories – See Paul Kopko at the Trek Store in Robinson.

5.)       Volunteers Needed -  On Sunday April 17, Bike MS will be participating in The Steel City Showdown “Tail Gate” and Bike Races. I am looking for a few volunteers to help myself and Lauren DiMaria recruit new riders for our team and The Ms Bike tours. If you are interested in participating, please let me know.

http://steelcityshowdown.com/

 6.)       Team Tent –  As we have done each year, we will be hosting a Team Tent at the Team Village . Laurie Strachan will once again be leading this year’s effort, if you or someone you know is interested in helping Laurie out, please email me . As a team we are getting bigger each year, and nothing is better than a smiling friendly face when you finish, along with treats and cold beverages. Or if you would like to contribute baked goods, treats or beverages, please let me know.

7.)       Bike Quality Control : This is for your own safety :

   > MS does not require Bike checks any longer however I would strongly encourage all riders to have their bikes tuned up at the start of the season and just before the ride. It will make you and the riders around you safer.

8.)      Training Rides : With weather looking more promising here is when we are riding next week :

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday  – Imperial PA. 5:30-6:00 PM Meet by the ball fields on McClarren road, ( Mile 8 on The Montour Trail). All levels welcome . 12-20+ Miles.

If a ride is cancelled we will announce it on Twitter check out the Team web-site for updates :

www.championsforms.com

 Saturday, Sunday – Because of the Steel City Showdown and The DSG Earth day event we will not be offering a weekend ride this week.

Trek of Pittsburgh does offer a Sunday ride out of their Robinson location contact Paul Kopko.

9.)      Bike MS Training Guide( I will be publishing 50 of my favorite tips) in the coming weeks :

http://bikepax.nationalmssociety.org/site/DocServer/Web_Pub.pdf?docID=33961

 10.)  Fundraising Incentives( new and exciting this year) :

 http://bikepax.nationalmssociety.org/site/DocServer/Prize_Structure2_js.pdf?docID=51340

11.)   Team Ride Dedication – This is a big deal, in the coming weeks I will be asking that we as a team dedicate our ride in support of a teammate…

Ride, volunteer, or sponsor, we need you to join us in our fight against MS…

 Please commit to helping MS today…

 Thank you so much.

It’s ride time…

 Champions for MS…We Can Move Mountains…

 -Jeff H.

 It’s hard to believe that today we are 10 weeks out…We have much to talk about today, so please bear with me. It’s necessary, and I need your help…

 Today I am coming you to once again to ask for your help..

MS needs your help..Registration overall is down for this year’s MS Escape to the Lake Tour..The Western PA Chapter of the National MS Society offers 3 different events .  As a team we are now 46 riders strong, still the largest team, but last year at this time we were over 60 riders strong…

 This year we as team we will offer 2 ride options, out of the three events this chapter offers. In fact if there is a Teammate willing to lead a Keystone Country Ride Team, I would support that as well.

 Registration is easy just click on the following links :

 MS Escape to The Lake June 11^th and 12^th  :

http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Bike/PAXBikeEvents?team_id=221341&pg=team&fr_id=15151

 Cook Forest Registration is -NOW OPEN -September 17th–Mike Houston – Captain

 http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR?pg=team&fr_id=16222&team_id=250752

 Keystone Country Ride July 23^rd and 24^th – How would you like to captain a team for us here?

  http://bikepax.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Bike/PAXBikeEvents?fr_id=15451&pg=entry

 If you have not ridden with us in a while, come back and join us once again. Check out our team video from last year’s ride.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8DcKes7HvmY

 If you know of someone who has a passion for helping those with MS, please pass this email along and join us for a life changing event….

 Please take the time to register today…As a Team we have proven that we set the standard in this event, in caring, compassion, and determination..

We are truly the guardians of those living with and fighting MS….Their Champions…

 Team Business – Much to Talk about here

1.)       Team Jerseys – Will ship the week of 5/23  to the DSG offices and I will  distribute as soon as they hit, stay tuned.

2.)       Team Jersey Re-Order – For those of you who would like a team jersey, but missed the deadline, we have the ability to do a reorder, but need to hit a 15 unit minimum, please let me know if there is interest to open a reorder up. These jerseys would arrive in time for the Cook Forest event in September.

 3.)     Team Discounts – Attached is a coupon from Primal for 20% off any purchases (non custom) on their web-site made between now and 12/31/2011. See the attached coupon and coupon code.

 4.)       Trek of Pittsburgh Discount – 20% off accessories – See Paul Kopko at the Trek Store in Robinson.

 5.)       Volunteers Needed -  On Sunday April 17, Bike MS will be participating in The Steel City Showdown “Tail Gate” and Bike Races. I am looking for a few volunteers to help myself and Lauren DiMaria recruit new riders for our team and The Ms Bike tours. If you are interested in participating, please let me know.

http://steelcityshowdown.com/

 6.)       Team Tent –  As we have done each year, we will be hosting a Team Tent at the Team Village . Laurie Strachan will once again be leading this year’s effort, if you or someone you know is interested in helping Laurie out, please email me . As a team we are getting bigger each year, and nothing is better than a smiling friendly face when you finish, along with treats and cold beverages. Or if you would like to contribute baked goods, treats or beverages, please let me know.

7.)       Bike Quality Control : This is for your own safety : Take the time to have your bike tuned up now before shops get too busy.

   8.)      Training Rides : With weather looking more promising here is when we are riding next week :

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday ( T Storms in the Fcst stay tuned) – Imperial PA. 5:30-6:00 PM Meet by the ball fields on McClarren road, ( Mile 8 on The Montour Trail). All levels welcome . 12-20+ Miles.

If a ride is cancelled we will announce it on Twitter check out the Team web-site for updates :

www.championsforms.com

 Saturday, Sunday – North Park 10:30AM 15-25 Miles, Park by the basketball courts next to the ice rinks. These rides are all about the distance.

Email me or contact me by cell phone  if you are interested in joining us.

 9.)      Bike MS Training Guide( I publishing 50 of my favorite tips) in the coming weeks :

http://bikepax.nationalmssociety.org/site/DocServer/Web_Pub.pdf?docID=33961

 10.)  Fundraising Incentives( new and exciting this year) :

 http://bikepax.nationalmssociety.org/site/DocServer/Prize_Structure2_js.pdf?docID=51340

 Ride, volunteer, or sponsor, we need you to join us in our fight against MS…

 Please commit to helping MS today…

  Thank you so much.

 Champions for MS…We Can Move Mountains…

-Jeff H.

 Today, I need your help….To commit and Remember…

Who / what inspired you to ride last year? Was it the challenge of riding 150 miles over 2 days? Was it a personal connection with MS(Friend or loved one)? Was it the journey with teammates over countless miles while training to ride for someone else? Was it the camaraderie that comes with sharing such a selfless adventure with great people??? Was it the tears that came when you rode into Conneaut Ohio and the medal was placed around your neck? Did you ride for yourself as a way of celebrating life, knowing that there are many who wished they could do what you were doing the last 2 days?

12 years ago, I started building teams and riding for MS..And every team and every tour is different. Each year someone has asked..Where does the motivation come from..What / Who inspires me to ride?

In a word …YOU…My Champions for MS Teammates….

Just when I thought I had seen it all….Felt the emotions….Seen the selflessness and Heart…Been touched by the determination and compassion…36 MS tours later..You all have shown me each day, why we need to continue to do this…

I know it’s a snowy day in Pittsburgh and the MS150 seems months away, but take a few moments and close your eyes…Think about something you love to do…Now think about what your life would be like today, if you were not able to do what you love….Now open them and drop what you are doing and commit once again….Join us… 

For people with MS, the simple act of riding is something they would do anything for….It’s up to us, to see that they get the chance to do what we sometimes take for granted. Whether it’s riding a bike, driving their car, holding their child, walking their dog, watching a Steelers Game, or hugging a loved one..

Now more than ever people with MS need your help…

Registration is easy, just click on the link below..

 http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Bike/PAXBikeEvents?team_id=221341&pg=team&fr_id=15151

 Registration is just $35 until May 5^th, after May 5^th $45..Remember each rider is required to fundraise a minimum of $250.

 We are a friends and family team and are open to anyone who has a passion to join us in our journey to fight MS….If you know of someone who is interested in joining us, please feel free to pass this e-mail along..

 **Cook Forest registration will open shortly so please stay tuned for updates on that ride as well.

  Training Survey

If you have not completed, please take the time now. Our Co Captain Mike Houston has prepared a training survey, we would like for you to complete.

 http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/3CGCPF5

 -The goal is to find out where and when you would like to train and provide safe and viable options for everyone who participates..This survey is also being passed along to The Fed Ex and Pella Teams who train with us, as well as the folks at MS…

-Training rides will be on an RSVP basis, this way we know how many riders we have riding, and how many groups and what levels we need to cater to..

-Twitter will be used with the web-site to communicate training updates quickly and timely..

–Training rides are open to all levels..( I never want a rider to think or say, I would have come out but did not want to slow you down..) There will always be someone to ride with you..You commit to riding and we help you get there, through safe training rides..

Weekly Dose of motivation

I came across this video from The Band : 3 Doors Down..Reminds me of this group…Champion in Me….Team USA Soundtrack..

 Still on the fence? Haven’t ridden with us in a while? We want you back..Want to remember what it’s like? Check out our 2010 team video on You Tube at :

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8DcKes7HvmY

 We are a team rich in heritage, who’s goals are simple..Fight MS head on…

  Ride, volunteer, virtually ride or sponsor, we want you..Those with MS need you…

 Jerseys

**With our current numbers I think hitting the 51 unit minimum is possible, but being a numbers guy, I would like to be sure and have no surprises.

-Please e-mail me the number of jerseys you would be interested in and sizes.

 http://www.primalwear.com/p-2012-vista-mens-cycling-jersey.aspx

More details will be coming shortly on the final color scheme and when we need to have orders in by.. Stay tuned here..We may have to act quickly here..

  Other Team Business

 1.)Indoor training now is essential – need help, I have a number of workouts on the web-site and stored in my draft file..Training indoors will help make the transition to outdoor riding much easier.

 2.)Your Bike—Not a bad idea to think about getting it in to shop for an initial tune up, prior to the start of outdoor riding..

 3.)Mark your Calendars the week of 3/13– Our First weekend Training Rides will begin as soon as the weather breaks….Next weekend we could see 40 – 50 degree temps.  3/13 – The start of Daylight Savings time and the start of our evening training series in Robinson Pa.(  I hope to drive our routes over the next week and check out riding conditions) I may be too optimistic here..Other locations for evenings may be available as well..Stay tuned…

 4.)This year we will be mixing it up a little bit and changing up our training locations. More details to follow..

 5.)BBQ Training Rides—As a Friends and Family team we do not have a central meeting place..Many times the best way for riders to meet each other is on the road..Starting this year, we will offer 2 BBQ training rides. One in  April, and May..We will do these on either a Saturday or Sunday, out of state or local parks, or my place here in Cranberry. We will ride in the morning and fire up grills in the afternoon for a team get together…More details to follow…These will be pot luck style, bring your best chile, potato salad, nacho’s etc..And meet teammates. More details to follow.

 6.)Volunteers –As a team we have a need for volunteers to help in a variety of venues both for us and MS. We need volunteers to help with our team tent at the team village, man rest stops during the tour, help with BBQ training rides, SAG Support during the tour, fundraising etc.

 7.)April 2^nd — Bike MS Spring Work Shop—This is open to all registered riders.

April 2, 2011

The Cardello Building, 701 North Point Drive, Pittsburgh PA 15233

(South Parking Lot)

 More details will be forthcoming on what else is new for 2011…Remember this team is a democracy, and we can do anything….If we can think it, we can do it…  

If someone you know has a passion for fighting MS, please feel free to forward this email ..Join us for a life changing event…

 Join us today…Commit to making a difference in the lives of those living with and fighting MS..

 Thank you all so much and I look forward to hearing from you soon!!

Champions for MS…We Can Move Mountains…

 -Jeff H.

 It’s been a long night….The votes are in, and you surprised me..In a very good way I must say..

As a team we are going all in this year…Pulling out the stops and get back to our roots of being aggressive…And your choice has shown me that….

Our colors for the 2011 tours will be Primal  Vista..To be honest at first I didn’t understand, until the wee hours of this morning when it hit me…This team has always been a little edgy, Yes, but we have always been a very passionate group… Our difference has and always will be in the fact, that we are color blind…So riding in a black and white jersey is fitting…After all its our character which has defined us as a team…But our difference is also that we are all riding for the right reasons…Each one of you have proven that as a team we can move mountains….Once again fitting with the jersey image…Yes Champions for MS is about “Moving Mountains “…Every tour we ride we make a difference in the lives of those living with and fighting MS…

You were right… And for that I thank you for helping me understand….Great choice

 http://www.primalwear.com/p-2012-vista-mens-cycling-jersey.aspx

 Here is the deal, we need to sell 51 jerseys in order get the pricing we have been quoted. That number is now 47, as I will personally be buying 4. 2 for myself and 2 for my wife our Team Sag driver..

Over the next week I will be providing you with details on purchasing jerseys..Timelines, etc…We are a friends and family team comprised of riders, volunteers, and sponsors…So I would think 47 jerseys is pretty possible..$39.60 is an incredible price for a jersey. Remember $4.40 from every jersey sale will go to MS.

 Over the next week I would like to get a feel for the number of jerseys we need, so we can provide that information to Primal.

Please email me as to how many jerseys you would like and sizes.  

 And oh by the way, it’s time to commit..Time to be counted and register…

 Registration is easy, just click on the link below..

 http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Bike/PAXBikeEvents?team_id=221341&pg=team&fr_id=15151

 Still on the fence? Haven’t ridden with us in a while? We want you back.

Want to remember what it’s like, check out our 2010 team video on You Tube at :

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8DcKes7HvmY

 Also please check out our web-site at :

 www.championsforms.com

 Ride, volunteer, sponsor, we want you..Those with MS need you…

 More details will be forthcoming on what’s new for 2011…Remember this team is a democracy, and we can do anything….If we can think it, we can do it…  

 If someone you know has a passion for fighting MS, please feel free to forward this email ..Join us for a life changing event…

 Thank you all so much and I look forward to hearing from you!!

 Champions for MS…We Can Move Mountains…

 -Jeff H.

 I know I said that I would only email once a week, but I have some great news..

We have a jersey deal…One I feel very strongly about, which will benefit both the team and MS.

 Our New jersey supplier for 2011 will be Primal Wear. Why Primal?

They make a great product, and in many respects represent who we are as a team. Primal has always been innovative with their designs and produce some of the most recognizable jerseys in the industry. They were founded by cyclists and are dedicated to providing highly technical clothing that looks great and performs perfectly.

 Here are the details of the Deal :

 1.)       We need to sell between 51 and 100 jerseys..Should be possible last year we rode 60-75 riders.

2.)       Cost – $39.60 / of which $4.40 from each jersey sold will go to MS on our behalf. These jerseys are normally $70-$80.

3.)       We will set up shop in their team store – You will be able to purchase the jersey or jerseys online. They will be shipped to one central location and we will distribute before the tour. More details to follow.

4.)       Next step – We need to pick a jersey – This is up to you. I am going to provide you with some choices and you vote.. The jersey you pick is the one we ride with..

5.)       Think about this..The Champions for MS team was built on a passion for helping those with MS..We were always a little edgy..We have always had a swagger in our step, and are the dedicated guardians of those living with MS..We have always been color blind…It’s our character which sets us apart..So let’s have fun with this…Our colors can be anything..And I mean anything…We have never been about style points..We just get it done…

6.)       Drum Roll Please–Click on the links below. Look at the choices..Email me your vote by Saturday February 12^th. I will compile the votes and announce the winner that morning…Today I enlisted the guidance of several of our veteran riders and came up with the choices. Let the voting begin…We are not doing a custom jersey, but want something that when other teams see us rolling their way, they will never forget who we are…(Smirk)…

Kodiak

 http://www.primalwear.com/p-2004-kodiak-mens-cycling-jersey.aspx

Double Dragon

http://www.primalwear.com/p-2008-double-dragon-mens-cycling-jersey.aspx

Vista

http://www.primalwear.com/p-2012-vista-mens-cycling-jersey.aspx

Tribal Fire

http://www.primalwear.com/p-2013-tribal-fire-mens-cycling-jersey.aspx

PBR Rainier Mountain Fresh Jersey

http://www.primalwear.com/p-1727-pbr-rainier-mountain-fresh-jersey.aspx

PBR Schlitz Vintage Cycling Jersey

http://www.primalwear.com/p-1726-pbr-schlitz-vintage-cycling-jersey.aspx

Grateful Dead Team Steal Your Face Jersey

http://www.primalwear.com/p-1733-grateful-dead-team-steal-your-face-jersey.aspx

Rush Fly by Night Men’s Cycling Jersey

http://www.primalwear.com/p-1730-rush-fly-by-night-mens-cycling-jersey.aspx

 Haven’t ridden with us in a while? Want to remember what it’s like? Check out this years team video:        

Thank you all so much!!

Heart….Determination…Courage…We are Champions for MS!

-Jeff H.

 Today I promise to keep it short, or maybe not  ….

As a team we are seven years old now…

For three years now we have been The Champions for MS Team…This team was born from your desire to continue to help those living with and fighting MS…You all have proven that this team is color blind, and that it’s character which defines teams not the colors you ride under…Our colors today will continue to be simple, (although I have a few ideas) The Blue Bandana of Bike MS Champions will identify us on the road( This Bandana signifies that each of us is riding for someone with MS..)

 Earlier today I came across a video clip from the movie “We are Marshall. This movie and the Champions for MS Team share many similarities…In 1970 most of the players and coaches of Marshall football team were lost in a tragic plane crash….In 2009, as a team we lost sponsorship, many people gave us up for dead…But you proved them wrong…In 10 days in early January three years ago today, this team of amazing people reinvented themselves as The Champions for MS Team…That last week in January, we made a choice to continue our fight for MS..I want each and every one of you to remember our heritage, and be proud of who we are…HEART is the very cornerstone of who we are as a team….Just like that Marshall Team…

And I have seen that from all of you…

Here is the clip from the movie We are Marshall…

 Those of you who have been with us for a while, think about it …We are allot like that Marshall Team….We are not dead, and our spirit and heart continues to live on through all of you…

 This year we will field 2 teams and will have our first Co – Captain in Mike Houston. Mike has been with us for 4 + plus years now and has ridden for MS for almost as long as I have…Mike will lead our first Cook  Forest Team, and will continue to help lead our training rides throughout the season for the Escape to the Lake tour as well. Stay tuned for updates here.

 Jerseys, we still do not have a jersey deal, that I am comfortable with presenting to you…I have a really hard time charging folks for jerseys who are riding for such a noble cause…Let alone asking each of you to pay full retail for a jersey given the fact that you pay a registration fee, lodging, transportation, and by the way raise a minimum of $250 for MS……This coupled with the sacrifices of time and effort you make to this wonderful cause… Soooooooo

 So let’s have fun with this..If we as a team are going to wear a jersey and pay full retail for it(advertising a supplier), let’s find one which is fun and cool and best represents who we are..Years ago there was a team I rode with in CT, which scoured web-sites nationally and found a new jersey each year to wear as a team…It was fun and innovative…One year they wore jerseys from a California Coffee house…What are your ideas?

We will compile every ones ideas and vote for what colors we will ride under this year…

 A Few Examples :

http://www.worldjerseys-store.com/images/1232689357422-1851945720.jpg

http://www.primalwear.com/popup.aspx?src=images/Product/large/TRF1J20M.jpg

 http://www.primalwear.com/p-1736-pink-floyd-money-mens-jersey.aspx

 http://www.primalwear.com/p-1719-boulder-beer-buffalo-gold-jersey.aspx

 http://www.nashbar.com/bikes/Product_10053_10052_522149_-1_200338_200275_200478

 http://www.nashbar.com/bikes/Product_10053_10052_508255_-1_200338_200275_200478

 Today I am asking you to commit and join me by riding this year’s MS Escape to the Lake Tour…

Save The Date : June 11^th and 12^th 2011—Registration is now open…

Registration is easy, just click on the link below..

 http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Bike/PAXBikeEvents?team_id=221341&pg=team&fr_id=15151

 Registration is just $35 until May 5^th, after May 5^th $45..Remember each rider is required to fundraise a minimum of $250.

Cook Forest River Ride – September 2011
Cook Forest, PA 

The Cook Forest River Ride is a one-day bike ride that takes cyclists on a gently rolling route along the Clarion River. It’s a fun, fall ride for cyclists of all levels. There are two route options: 35 miles(perfect for beginner and recreational cyclists) and 60 miles (for those looking for more of a challenge).More details to follow here…

 We are a friends and family team and are open to anyone who has a passion to join us in our journey to fight MS….If you know of someone who is interested in joining us, please feel free to pass this e-mail along..

 Keep an eye out on our web-site for future updates..

www.championsforms.com

 Twitter

 http://twitter.com/#!/Champs_for_MS

 Twitter will be used for quick communication and there is a link on the home page of the team site as well…

 Well this was longer than I hoped and I like all of you should be hitting the bike today hmmmm……

 In the immortal words of the Band Van Halen, and the Tune “Right Now”…What are you waiting for?????

Thank you all so much!!

Heart….Determination…Courage…We are Champions for MS!

-Jeff H.

 Today, I am going to pull on your heart strings a bit..In 2007, for me the meaning of  Super Bowl Sunday changed..For ever…

 In just 3 weeks Super Bowl Sunday will be here…You may ask yourselves what does the Super Bowl have to do with riding for MS..Please allow me to indulge myself..4 years ago my mom was involved in a major car accident the week of the Super Bowl in 2007…On Super Bowl Sunday 2007 she passed away from injuries sustained in that accident(kind of fitting since she was an avid football fan)..Growing up, Sundays were usually spent with her 2 sons watching football..Much of who I am today, I owe to my mom..She was an incredibly caring and giving lady with a passion for life..She always cared more for others than herself…When I first became involved with MS, she was always very proud and interested in how the teams were doing. On occasion a rider would receive a note and a check in the mail from this mystery lady from NH, wishing them luck and telling them how proud she was of them…The note was always signed Mrs. H. But there is more..

 In 2007 I was not sure there was going to be a team, In early March I lost another member of my family, an uncle who I was very close to..

 I decided to go forward with the team anyway, and proceeded to host a series of lunch and learns..I knew, I had to suck it up, because my mom would not want me to use her as an excuse for not helping those who needed me and my teams so much…The day before the second lunch and learn and the week before my birthday I received a card, in the mail with a check for $100 written in her hand..My emotions started to get the best of me, you see she had passed away 6 weeks before..I contacted her husband only to find out the card and check were mailed out the day of the accident, and must have gotten lost in the mail..So how could I not ride..I guess it was her way telling me not to give up..So, every Super Bowl Sunday, we celebrate life, and my mom’s legacy of giving.…Today, she lives on through me and in many respects each of you who choose to join me on this journey…  

 I guess it’s my destiny to ride for those with MS and to share this experience with any and all who might be interested in joining me…

 You see I can’t do this alone…I need your help… To ride, To volunteer, or To sponsor this year’s effort…

 This group has proven that character defines champions, and yes We are Champions…Character is not defined by the colors we wear, but by what’s inside, each and every one of us…And this team is rich in character…

 I’m not sure where this year’s journey will take us, but I guarantee it will be memorable…

 Today I am asking you to commit and join me by riding this year’s MS Escape to the Lake Tour…

 Save The Date : June 11^th and 12^th 2011—Registration is now open…

 But we are not done yet…

 We are all Warriors in the fight against MS…I came across these clips which relate to who we are and our journey..These clips are from the movie Peaceful Warrior…

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9BBDexSzmMM&feature=related

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XRShWun7Mc4&feature=related

 Our best days are ahead of us…

 Registration is easy, just click on the link below..

 http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Bike/PAXBikeEvents?team_id=221341&pg=team&fr_id=15151

 Registration is just $35 until May 5^th, after May 5^th $45..Remember each rider is required to fundraise a minimum of $250.

 We are a friends and family team and are open to anyone who has a passion to join us in our journey to fight MS….If you know of someone who is interested in joining us, please feel free to pass this e-mail along..

 Communication this year will be through our Team web-site, Twitter, and weekly team updates..

 Keep an eye out on our web-site for future updates..

www.championsforms.com

 Twitter

 http://twitter.com/#!/Champs_for_MS

 Twitter will be used for quick communication and there is a link on the home page of the team site as well…

 E-mail

 To be honest I would prefer to get away from using it, but you told me last year that weekly updates are necessary, and then our final 10 day count down to the tour..I will also post these updates on the web-site…

You tell me what you want…

 Training

 Well part of this is up to the weather gods…Evening training rides will begin at the start of daylight savings time March 13^th, or there abouts..Watch the web-site for updates…All evening rides will be operated out of Imperial at the mile 8 parking area on the Montour trail on McClarren road (Directions will be posted on the web-site)..

 Weekend Rides : 3^rd or 4^th week of February, Will be operated out of North Park and or Imperial.. (over the last 2 years NP has become very busy with Marathon traffic, so I would like to refrain from training in the Park) Watch the web-site for updates…

 Do you have a passion to lead rides? Or do you have a favorite route? Let me know, and we will post it up..

 We need ride leaders, if you would like to volunteer please let me know..

  So I ask you now and in the coming weeks leading up to Super  Bowl Sunday to celebrate life and commit to fighting MS with me in 2011…
Thank you all so much!!

Heart….Determination…Courage…We are Champions for MS!

-Jeff H.

Now more than ever indoor training is critical to making your Bike MS experience the best it can be. Over the next few months I will be passing on links from a variety of resources to help you before we take to the road.

Here is a little something from our friends at Bicycling Magazine.

http://www.bicycling.com/training-nutrition/training-fitness/cycling-cross-training-selene-yeager

Thank you so much and here is to a great tour.

Heart..Determination…Courage..We are Champions for MS.

-Jeff H.