FasCat Coaching, Jeremy Powers team up for 2011 Boulder cyclocross clinic

BOULDER, Colo. (VN) — Yes, it’s August. Yes, it’s 90 degrees outside. But that doesn’t mean that some cyclists, myself included, aren’t already thinking about cooler temperatures, embrocation, post-race upset stomachs and wooden barriers.

Trying to get a leg up on the competition (and over obstacles) 35 cyclocross racers attended the FasCat Coaching-Jeremy Powers Cyclocross Camp August 12-14 in Boulder, Colorado.

Frank Overton, Greg Keller, Pete Webber, John Verheul, Alison Powers, Jon Tarkington, Jeremy Powers and others helped teach the clinic. Riders learned and practicing skills in the field and also spent time in the classroom. Lectures covered bike setup, equipment choice and training plans.

In a clever use of technology, FasCat founder Frank Overton filmed the attendees and reviewed their technique and form over barriers using Dartfish software. Using the slowed-down footage, riders can pick apart the various steps involved in dismounting, clearing barriers and remounting. Coaches also pointed out the areas in which they could use some help.

Jason Hilimire, a FasCat coach, said the camp was a 60/40 mix of locals and out-of-towners. Most of the attendees were from west of the Mississippi; Texas, Iowa, South Dakota, California and Idaho.

“Yesterday (Friday) we had a meet and greet, and then a social ride to the Valmont Bike Park,” he said. “Nobody wanted to leave. There were 35 gigantic smiles. They were like kids in a candy store.”

Pat Larabee stopped by to check on his daughter Lauryn Andre, the only junior at the camp. The 16-year-old from Longmont, Colorado, said the camp was “awesome.”

“The best thing I learned so far is to put my hand on the top tube when dismounting. Normally I kind of skip that part,” she said with a giggle.

Another female ‘crosser in attendance was Nicole Duke, recent signee with the Cannondale-Cyclocrossworld.com professional team.

“Frank is my coach and he asked me to come and help out, especially the women in the clinic — to act as a cheerleader, but also to start honing my own skills,” she said. “I need this camp just as much as everyone else.”

But the man of the hour was certainly Powers. All eyes were focused on the cyclocross veteran and his new Rapha-Focus kit. Team mechanic Brian Dallas even took time out of his weekend at home with the family to come out and support his newest athlete.

Powers delivered his instructions in his normal humorous manner, eliciting as much laughter as he did learning.

“With every camp I do, it’s nice to see people improve over the weekend,” he said. “It’s great to help grow the sport through proper technique. It raises the level of the sport for everyone.”

So don’t feel guilty if visions of mud and barriers are entering your head. You’re not alone. Go ahead, dust off those ‘cross bikes, bang out some intervals and start stockpiling Tums to help with ‘cross gut. The best time of the year is almost here!

This camp cost $395 (airfare and hotel not included) for a 2.5-day session. Check out www.fascatcoaching.com for info on upcoming camps.