Cycling Camp

[spindizzy]

I just got back from a women's cycling camp in Solvang, CA. (Solvang was the little town filmed in the movie "Sideways") DH had given me money 2 years ago for my birthday- I used it for this trip.

The camp was sponsored by Specialized, so if you signed up early enough, you got to ride a demo bike. I rode a Ruby, 51cm (mine Cannondale is 50) with handlebars wider than my bike. No issues except for a few saddle sores from increased contact time .

The camp was phenomenal. Of course, this is my first experience N=1....Support on rides was fantastic, coaches were awesome, food was great, mechanics were super, support during rides excellent..just well organized all around. We had a skills session prior to our ride on the 2nd day. Optional brief seminars: fix-a-flat, bike maintenance, Q & A session. We had a yoga session as well. It was a busy 4days.

Rides were beautiful, scenic, challenging (and windy). I sometimes felt like I was in a movie it was so gorgeous.

Now to get my pedals and saddle back on my bike, turn the furnace on (it's freezing here).

Solvang


Jalama Beach Ride


Happy Canyon Ride


Happy Canyon


Drum Canyon Ride

[bmccasland]

Looks like loads of fun!

Was the camp open to all levels of riders? Going to bike camp is one of the things I've thought about doing. Do they coach you, or are there just daily rides? I've thought I could improve my riding with some coaching (well, who couldn't? ) Back before i got hurt I was more of a middle-of-the-road cyclist. When I was in top form, I could do a sustained 20-22 mph on the flats. But that was before I messed up my knee. I have no idea what I could ride now.

[gabriellesca]

How beautiful and fun. I love the idea of a camp if there are beginner camps! Thanks for sharing.

[TrekTheKaty]

(jealous) Happy for you! That looks fun. I'm sure I could be a faster rider with training (yeah, right). Did you get coaching?

[carinapir]

Okay, cause I'm a dweeb, I looked this place up and now I really want to go, but they only do it once a year. Damn!

It's not too pricey and just about everything is included. Sounds fun!

http://www.solvangtriathloncamps.com/wcc.htm

[tctrek]

Carmichael has similar camps, I believe in Denver and Asheville. I went to a Women's Beginner Camp last year in Asheville. It was awesome and also reasonably priced. There were only 7 women in the camp and we had 3 coaches with us at all times. Completely supported rides with all the drinks, snacks provided. We definitely got "coaching"... climbing, downhill technique (they have some big hills in Asheville!), pacelining, etc. We also got some classroom training on bike maintenance, fixing flats, nutrition and training programs. I found that the camp gave me so much more confidence.