SugarCRM

SugarCRM gets 1st and 3rd at the Metromint Giro di Francisco

2009-09-09T12:23:00.000-07:00

Its all about the benjamins baby! -photos courtesy of Vangel Aktoudianakis

MaryEllen Ash - 1st
Starla Teddergreen - 3rd

With strong support from Kim Fong, Josie Morgan and Lucia Mokres who all finished with the field.

Team Success at the Giro

by: Mary-Ellen

After a long season of hard work and sacrifices, it all came together for me at the Giro. Lady Luck smiled down upon us and at the last race of the season, we got another team win! What a great way to finish up the long season. Leading up to the race, there were several unknowns. First up, on a personal note, my form was unknown. I had just sprained my ankle 2 weeks prior and my time on the bike was limited (sprained the ankle playing ping-pong – insert laughter). How many team mates would attend the race? Most of the gals were tired from the wear of the long season. Some were sick, some were just plain tired. But a bike race is an amazing lure and can convince the weary to come out and be heroic. To my pleasure, upon arrival at he venue, it turned out there were five (5) of the SugarCRM girls ready to race – Starla, Kim, Josie, Lucia and myself. Everyone just wanted to race and have a good time. Excellent.

There was no team plan. We knew if the race came down to a final sprint, that I was currently the strongest for a high finish. So we would try and keep the race together. But other than that, individual roles were just to cover any moves and ride as best as we could and to have fun.

The race rolled around for the first few laps with everyone just cautiously watching each other and checking out the course. Then the flurry of attacks started. Yukie (Metromint) got a good solo gap ~10 laps into the 30 lap race. I was able to bridge up and we just kept on rolling through together. Unfortunately, anyone being paired with a sprinter while in a breakaway usually spells doom. And right on cue, the peleton saw the danger and we were eventually caught. Thankfully, our efforts were rewarded with both of us grabbing some race primes.

The peleton was briefly subdued. Then the inevitable restless arrived and a very dangerous break went up the road. It contained a lot of strong engines – Jane Despas (2009 Cal Cup Champ), Jane Robertson (Metromint), Mary Maroon (Vanderkitten), and two other riders. They quickly got a good gap of 15 seconds. The problem was, no SugarCRM riders were in that break. We sensed the danger and with some splintering attacks and some help from from Colovita, Velo Bella, the break came back. Phew.

With about 11 laps to go, Amanda Seigle (Metromint) made a solo dig. It wasn’t particularly dangerous so the peleton just sat up. Almost instantly, the gap to Amanda became 30 seconds. OMG! Panic. Now that little solo dig was extremely dangerous. Personally I was kicking myself, because I was finally recovered from my early race break that I could have gone with her. With 8 to go, we magically got a SugarCRM team train going. Kim, Starla and Lucia all moved to the front of the race and rotated around taking long hard pulls slowly reeling Amanda back. I can’t tell you how great it was to see them in a line: it was beautiful team work in motion. I was getting teary-eyed. The team girls collectively worked together and the painfully slow and inevitable catch began. Each lap ticked away and the crowds were getting antsy wondering whether or not Amanda would be caught. Each lap I knew we were getting closer and closer and stronger and stronger. I’ll be honest, it wasn’t until 5 laps to go when I became confident Amanda would be caught.

Finally with 1 lap to go, we caught her. Metromint gave one last hard dig in hopes of victory at their own sponsored race and sent two riders up the road. Their attacks were enough to rouse up the peleton and get us back up to speed and we were once again grouppo compacto.

As the group rode around the final few minutes I reflected on the words from friends at the start of the race: “The race is won into the final 2 corners.” It was now my turn to go to work. I had to repay my team mates for all their hard work. A podium would be okay, but a win was what we craved. Positioning into the final two corners would be crucial. Jane Despas, eager to secure her overall win in the Cal Cup Series, lead the peleton through the final corners. I was safely latched onto her wheel. Out of the final corner, Jane started her sprint early. I jumped off her wheel and was able to take the win by half a wheel. Starla, who had been sick all week, was able to sprint in for 3^rd.

I was so proud of the team. It was a day when team work went perfectly – everyone chipping in and helping and ultimately getting the win. I love bike racing!

From me and the SugarCRM girls, have a great rest and off season. We’ll see you soon again at the races J

Brianne Szolusha 3rd at SugarCRM Timpani Criterium

2009-08-04T14:44:00.000-07:00

SugarCRM rider Brianne Szolusha showed her savvy by making the race winning break and scoring a fine podium place at this weekends Timpani Criterium.

Being a Los Gatos Bicycle Racing Club organised event, the SugarCRM Womens Team did not want to dissapoint, and Brianne made the most of her position at the front of the field to fly the SugarCRM flag, while behind a strong contingent of SugarCRM riders covered the field.

Mary Ellen Ash and Karla Kingsley in the mix at Superweek! ME 4th at Chicago Criterium!

2009-07-27T20:51:00.000-07:00

Mary Ellen Ash and Karla Kingsley pictured with Blue Competition Cycles Rider, SugarCRM Guest and friend and Cycling Legend Laura Van Gilder.
Photos by Craig Kingsley

SugarCRM was superbly represented at the world famous Superweek International Criteriums in Wisconsin/ Illinois by Criterium specialists Mary Ellen Ash and Karla Kingsley, both who have raked in great results this year on the NCNCA and NRC circuit. With Mary Ellen having scored a brace of major podiums this year, and Karla winning the Oakland GP the past week and being a winner of a 2008 stage of Superweek, this formidable tag team was well suited for the 7 days of consecutive high speed criterium racing that lay ahead. And they did not dissapoint, animating the racing everyday in front of large crowds and against some of the bigger teams. In the final shakedown Mary Ellen was 18th on GC, Karla was fast enough for 16th for a double top 20 in the fastest Criterium series in the world.

Here is Mary Ellen's overview and report of her 4th place in the prestigous Chicago Criterium:

So superweek:

I came to event with a less than desirable level of fitness. Due to a few tweaked vertebrae and ribs, I was forced to take 6 full days off the bike only 2 weeks before the event! Even sitting on the bike was incredibly painful. Only after several chiropractic treatments was I able to get back on the bike. I was lucky to get healthy just in time to participate in two local criteriums. The suffering was great and it was a huge acheivement just to ride my bike. Those two races were all the intensity I would acquire in my legs leading up to Superweek '09.

The first race was a big disappointment. It contained in the infamous "Brewer's Hill." It didn't go very well as I was quickly spat out the rear of the peleton. Over the next few races, I gauged my efforts and tried not to over-exert myself. Karla and I had 5 consecutive races. Karla's goals were to be aggressive and try to initiate or follow a break. My goal was simply to finish strong and conserve energy. If I could help Karla get away or at least control the pack briefly, I was satisfied. After that, it was down to securing solid results - I wanted to be consistently in the top-10 whenever possible.

Happily, with each race I was able to get stronger and stronger. It was so nice to be able to animate the races again. Karla was super supportive and patient. Unfortunately, neither of us had any luck getting into the 'right' breakaway. It was tough b/c there were a couple of close calls. Ultimately, I am proud of what we accomplished and we did well together against the other teams.

Chicago Criterium:

This was a the 7th race on the list. Since last years race was won by a break, the goal was to get KArla into a breakaway. The back-up plan was to get a podium in the sprint finish. Gotta aim high.

I must say, we got really great weather. Sunny, a slight breeze and 80 degrees. We couldn't have asked for a better day to race. I'll admit my legs were a little lethargic on the start and they were fried a couple of times during the race when the peleton was in a single-line thanks to hard attacks from Team Kenda and Laura VG. There were a couple of solid breakaway attempts, but nothing was sticking. With ~5 laps to go, it was going to come down to a field sprint. Karla was excellent and protected me from the wind in the closing laps. In the end, even with the dicey riding, I was able to hold my position and came out of the final corner in ~6th position. Unfortunately, my legs didn't have enough juice for me to pass the top-3 ladies and I had to settle for 4th. I'm a little disappointed to finish off the podium, but considering who beat me to the line, I can't complain.

Liza Rachetto 2nd to Kristin Armstrong at Boise Twilight Criterium

2009-07-21T22:46:00.001-07:00

Liza Rachetto used her form from Giro d'Italia and Giro Trentino to place 2nd to Olympic Gold Medallist Kristin Armstrong in the Cervelo Test Team rider's final ever race as a Professional on American soil.

SugarCRM rider Lindsay Myers used the race and time in Boise as prep leading into the Cascade Classic and was instrumental in controlling the tempo of the race from the outset as riders from Vanderkitten, PROMAN, Bobs Bicycles, DFT treads and BODE Cycling tried desperate attacks.

After 15 minutes, Liza was able to manage a solo breakaway that gained up to 26 seconds on the chasers, and stayed out front for nearly half an hour, much to the delight of her hometown crowd which numbered in excess of 10 thousand people. However the field was not content to let Liza steal the limelight and reeled her back in with 15minutes to race.

With 2 laps to go, Armstrong launched a final bid that drew Tiffany Pezzulo from the field. On the final lap and with two corners to race, Rachetto bridged the gap and in an exciting sprint managed second to a delighted Armstrong. Myers was 8th.

Starla Teddergreen on the cobbles of Belgium

2009-07-21T22:34:00.001-07:00

Diminutive pocket rocket Starla Teddergreen has raced 4 races in her first week based out of Blaubeg, Belgium. It is great to see her flying the SugarCRM flag in International races against top teams including Lotto Bedisol and Flexpoint.

Starlas take on some of the hardest racing in the world is upbeat, descriptive and humorous- remember to check out her blog at www.starlacycling.blogspot.com and support this Bay Area rider!

Story by Jono Coulter Profisc

Karla Kingsley 2nd at Lodi Criterium, 7th at San Rafael

2009-07-21T22:26:00.000-07:00

Karla Kingsley pulled off another stellar sprint to finish 2nd at the Lodi Criterium behind Vanessa Drigo of Honda Hopkins Racing. On a day when the mercury soared to 103 degrees, Bri Szolousha opened the SugarCRM account by driving a 30minute long 3 rider breakaway that soaked up crowd priems and had the other teams scrambling to chase back time.

When the move finally came back in the closing stages Mary Ellen Ash and kim Fong had covered enough bases for Karla to make the final 6 rider selection. Despite the frantic efforts of the two Wells Fargo riders in the move, who took turns at attacking over the final 5 laps, Karla used her sprint to garner another top finish for SugarCRM.

Karla wins Oakland Grand Prix!

2009-07-06T08:40:00.000-07:00

The SugarCRM team finished off a great weekend of racing in Oakland yesterday, here's Karla's report....

This entire weekend worked out well for the SugarCRM team. We went into the 4th of July race with a concrete goal and we achieved it. Our goal was to set Starla up for the win, we did that and she delivered like a rock star. Today our goal as a team was to set me up for the win since it was my hometown race. We wanted to be active, but since there weren't many of us we knew we had to be careful with how we spent our energy. We thought there was a good chance of a break being able to stay away since the course was a bit technical and it was a windy day. So SugarCRM was vigilant and always represented in moves that went off the front. Kim Fong was extremely active with chasing down any threatening moves off the front, while Starla and I were also careful to cover attacks. As the race came down to the final laps, the whole peloton was together and it looked like a bunch sprint would be inevitable. With 3 to go, we were at the front getting set up for the final sprint and keeping the pace up. At one lap to go, a Proman attakced and created a good gap off the front of the field. Starla quickly came forward to chase, with me sitting right on her wheel. I was a little worried that it was too early, since we still had a full lap to go, but she put in a huge effort to lessen the gap and make sure noone would come around us. With half a lap to go, I knew the time was right to slingshot around Starla-I sprinted to make contact with the Proman rider, and the was able to come around her before the final corner. I just put my head down and didn't look back during the final straightaway, and in the end, I crossed the line first!

Karla winning the field sprint (photo courtesy of Garrett Lau)

I'm extremely proud of how our team worked together this weekend. Both times we were up against strong fields, and both times we stuck to our plan and pulled off the win. There's nothing better than teamwork that feels like clockwork.

The winning team at Oakland Grand Prix (photo courtesy of Garrett Lau)

Thanks for reading,

Karla

Starla's Davis Crit Race Report

2009-07-06T08:07:00.000-07:00

After a week off the bike, I was not sure where my legs would be today. I only knew one thing, they would be dead to me or ready to storm. The plan was to check in with each other during the race and if my legs wanted to come out to play, I would get a lead out by Lindsay and Karla for the win. The plan was also to cover attacks the first half of the race and then be more aggressive in the second half and see if we could make something stick. If not, we would lead it out for the sprint.

Soon out of the gates there was an attack. I was in position so I went with it. It looked like we had a gap so I look over and say "hey why not" she nods and says "ok". We take turns pulling and stay away for a few laps. They ring the bell for a $100 prime (oh yes I want this), we are starting to get pulled back and I'm a little tired and think to myself if we get caught now I have no chance of winning the sprint, so I attack and manage to stay off and take the prime ( woo hoo!). I sit up and sink like a stone until I am in the middle of the pack. I hold position there so I can get a little recovery. I look to the front and am happy to see Lindsay, Karla, and Kim ready to cover.

Now I'm not going to get the order of this right but you will get the picture. More attacks, Karla goes takes a prime, Lindsay goes takes a prime, I go again take another $100 prime (what can I say I'm thinking money for Belgium). More attacks Karla covers, Kim covers, Lindsay covers, and somewhere in there I take another prime. It's getting late in the race, we start to attack. Tibco is working hard, so is Metromint and other riders to keep up the pace, but we are there to cover every move.

Two to go I find Karla, I'm on her, now I'm not. Lindsay gets me back up closer to Karla, now I'm back on her, then I'm not, ok for real now, I'm on! She's killing it into the last turn and I take off ( I say to myself don't shift down, try sprinting in a smaller gear, I learned this is a smart move and works for me). I'm sprinting and it looks all clear when a wheel starts to creep into my peripheral on the left. It's Carol Irving of Touchstone. I know she is a strong sprinter, we have been here before, but I put my head down still sprinting, she is gaining on me (in my head noooooooo). I dig deeper, I'm pulling ahead, there's the line and it's a W!, hands up super excited for a win.

The team rode amazing. We had a plan, we stuck to it, and it worked! Karla gave a phenomenal lead out. Lindsay launched some aggressive attacks and Kim rode like a champ covering some tough attacks.
Thanks for reading,
Starla

Starla Teddergreen Wins Davis 4th of July Criterium!

2009-07-04T23:19:00.000-07:00

Photo Courtesy Bob Cullinan, Cycleto.com

Starla Teddergreen cemented her place as a dominant force on the US Cycling scene today by winning the coveted Davis 4th of July Criterium in front of a quality field.

"I wanted to win this race wth a vengeance" explained the diminutive Starla, ater a stellar mid year which has seen her compete successfully on the NRC circuit.

Her success was in no small part to her SugarCRM teammates, Karla Kingsley, Lindsay Myers and Kim Fong who rode textbook tactics to collecticely garner 4 of the mid race priems in front of riders from TIBCO, Touchstone and Vanderkitten and set up the punchy Starla for the finish.

"I was away early and managed to collect a couple of priems, and when i eventually came back to the group Karla and Lindsay managed to cover successive moves and gather further priems. With 5 laps to go i was surfing Karla's wheel and she was riding awesome. I momentarily lost it and Lindsay picked up with two to go and delivered me back to the front of the field. Then Karla picked me up and dropped me off at awesome pace into the last corner, I had to drag race Carol Irving (Touchstone) to the line. She was coming up fast, but i was determined to win"

The ride caps off a great Spring/ Summer campaign for Starla, who can add the victory to her two top 10 NRC finishes as she heads to Belgium for a stint of international racing on Thursday. For tomorrow though, her focus is on helping SugarCRM in tomorrows Oakland GP.

"Karla Kingsley's home race tomorrow, we have been on tour together alot this year and she took care of me today. We want to help her as much as possible in the finale for Oakland"

The SugarCRM girls stepped up today, stay tuned for news on their performances at Oakland.

Lindsay Myers 6th at Nevada City Classic

2009-06-22T14:13:00.000-07:00

On a day when record crowds descended upon Nevada City to witness Lance Armstrongs first win in 4 years, SugarCRMs Lindsay Myers made the most of her climbing ability to place 6th behind Promans Shelley Olds. Lindsay ended up at the front of a select group of riders, after previously driving the winning break only to fall back after a succession of attacks from Old's Proman teammates.
For Lindsay, she was just happy to be back racing on US soil at Americas oldest bike race after returning from a stint in France. "Nevada City is one of my favorite races because of its technical, tough nature. With all of the crowds cheering on the sidelines it was fun, no matter the result"

Starla and Kim wrap up Tour de Nez Northstar with 9th and 16th

2009-06-22T13:46:00.000-07:00

Flying the SugarCRM flag at TourdeNez Northstar Criterium, Starla Teddergreen and Kim Fong showed their prowess by attacking the punchy, cobbled climbs of the resort town circuit, with Starla managing to win her group sprint for 10th. The Tour was a great event for SugarCRM, with both riders wrapping up top 20spots in the final omnium and receiving prizemoney checks courtesy of Northstar. Rikke Preisler showed her potential talent finishing in 20th on the final day as she makes her way through the categories.
Special commendations for Starla, who raced Tulsa Tough, Nature Valley GP and Tour de Nez back to back, for a total of 12 stages in 2.5 weeks, with 4 top ten finishes!

Tour de Nez Reno Criterium

2009-06-20T11:39:00.000-07:00

Starla Teddergreen maintained her position in the top 10 in the overall of the Mighty Mighty Tour de Nez with a 9th place in todays Downtown Reno Criterium, held over 45 minutes of a technical, undulating course. Kim Fong was once again comfortably in the top 20 in an event won by Professional Mountainbiker Katarina Nash from Luna.

SugarCRM at Tour de Nez

2009-06-19T12:43:00.000-07:00

Starla Teddergreen scored a 6th place finish at yesterdays Truckee Criterium, stage 1 of the mighty mighty Tour de Nez. In an attcking race won by Austrian based Reno local Amber Rais (Team TIBCO) Starla was positioned at the head of the pack in the final 180 degree turn to score yet another top ten. During the race SugarCRM youngster Kim Fong was in the mix covering several breakaway attempts, and finishing comfortably in the top 20. Rikke Preisler, in her first Pr0 123 race, finished 24th. Stay tuned for results from todays Reno Downtown Criterium

SugarCRM wraps up Tulsa Tough with 2 riders in the top 20

2009-06-16T14:32:00.000-07:00

In one of the hardest criterium series on the NRC Circuit, Liza Rachetto and Starla Teddergreen placed 9th and 17th in the final Overall Omnium. Their consistent results came about by being involved in the finale of every day's racing, combined with awesome work by their trusty SugarCRM teammates, Mary Ellen Ash and Karla Kingsley.

Importantly, the riders ended the weekend with all bones intact, despite being involved in several of the multi rider pileups that marred the event. The race was also a testament to the quality of build of team equipment from Blue Competition Cycles, Mavic Wheels and Giro Helmets, all of which came out of the crashes straight and true.

SugarCRM Top Ten at Tulsa Tough NRC Crits

2009-05-31T07:08:00.000-07:00

Leading into the final day of the Tulsa Tough NRC Criterium 3 day series in Oklahoma, SugarCRM has scored 3 top tens in the first two days of action packed racing.
On day one, Liza Rachetto bounced back after a multiple rider pile up with 12 laps to go to finish 8th in the sprint, won by Laura Van Gilder.
After the four woman team recuperated in the pool at host housing that afternoon, they were fresh enough to pilot Starla Teddergreen to her second NRC top ten of the year, with 8th in a Shelley Olds won bike race. Liza backed up for 9th, and Karla Kingsley kept herself upright to record another solid finish after being aggressive during the race.
Unfortunately for the speedy legs and multiple recent podium visitor Mary Ellen Ash, she was caught in a multiple rider pile up for the second day in a row, and was unable to contest the finale.
View Cyclingnews picture of the Sprint Finish here:
Stay tuned for a report to follow the final day of action at Tulsa Tough!!

Mary Ellen Ash and Starla Teddergreen Podium at Memorial Day Criterium

2009-05-25T23:22:00.001-07:00

SugarCRM riders put in a stellar performance at today's SugarCRM Memorial Day Criterium, won by PROMAN's Shelley Olds.

In a high paced event punctuated with many strong attacks from riders from TIBCO, PROMAN, Vanderkitten, Jazz Apple, Honda Hopkins and Metromint, the SugarCRM riders stuck to the pregame plan and led into the final corner, setting up two of their riders on the podium in a class field.

Kim Fong was the first rider to cover a threatening move, straight off the first lap with Brooke Miller (TIBCO) and Ruth Corset (Jazz Apple) showing fast legs from the start.

Riders took advantage of the "easy" circuit to let their aggressiveness shape the race, and by midway throught the criterium the most threatening move of the day featuring SugarCRM's Karla Kingsley, Amber Rais (TIBCO), Shelley Olds (PROMAN) and Ruth Corset (Jazz Apple) held a 15 second advantage over the chasing pack, led by Webcor- Sportvelo.

Images by and Race Report by: Lyne Lamoureux www.podiuminsight.com
From five to go the race was gruppo compatto, and the dominant sprinters teams began to set up their trains. Coming into the second to last straight it was an all TIBCO affair but SugarCRM's Liza Rachetto launched into the final corner with two red and white SugarCRM jerseys glued to her wheel- Mary Ellen Ash and Starla Teddergreen. In a frenetic sprint one of the fastest girls in the USA, Shelley Olds managed to take the win from Corset, with a charging Mary Ellen Ash holding off Brooke Miller for 3rd. Starla Teddergreen showed the rest of the field a clean set of heels to take the last place on the podium, while lead out rider Liza managed 8th.

Spirits were high among the girls but all were also concerned about a mid race incident that took out Team Captain Jen Van Muckey. Jen injured her shoulder after several riders were involved in a pileup, and we are all wishing JV a speedy recovery so she can get out and show her speed again soon.

Apart from putting two SugarCRM riders on the podium, it was also great to see Bri Szolusha racing her first event since the birth of Axel less than 8 weeks ago, and Cat3 rider Cecelia Altamirino mixing it up with the Pro riders.

A very special thanks to Carley Fardell , DC who provided valuable Chiropractic care and support to the team at this event, as well as the continued support of SugarCRM, Blue Bicycles, GIRO, and all Team Sponsors.

SugarCRM Cats Hill Classic- double podium!

2009-05-04T22:16:00.000-07:00

SugarCRM riders did their club and sponsor proud as they animated this weekends Cats Hill Classic in downtown Los Gatos, California. Liza Rachetto and Mary Ellen Ash managed to fill the podium spots behind a scintillating Shelley Olds from PROMAN Pradigm, but it was the manner in which the SugarCRM girls captivated the attention of the Los Gatos fans that will ensure the race and these riders go down in Cats Hill Classic history.

With all members of the SugarCRM team controlling the early part of the race, it was Jennifer Van Muckey who initiated proceedings with a blistering solo move on her Blue Competition Cycles RC8 that stayed away for over six laps and forced the otheer teams to mount a concerted chase. This move by multiple Cats Hill Classic racer had the crowd on their feet as the lightweight speedster powered around the course.

This course, with its demanding 23% powerclimb and rough surface requires the best equipment, and the Blue RC8 paired with Mavic wheels gave the SugarCRM girls formiddable attacking power.

The next move was initiated by Shelley Olds, twice a runner up at this race and recently back from UCI track World Championships in Poland, she was hungry to nab the victory. Perennial hardwoman Liza Rachetto followed Shelleys attack, and knowing she had a speedy complement of sprinters as teammates back in the peleton, was content to not contribute too much to Shelleys move.

With three laps to go Liza attacked Shelley, only to be brought back over the crest of the climb. Again on the final lap Liza tried from the base of the climb, but a determined and speedy Shelley brought that back too. The race was being set up for the inevitable sprint, and with Liza forced to lead on the descent, Shelley attacked and grabbed the inside line into the final turn, edging out her crafty SugarCRM competitor in a fantastic sprint in front of an enthusiastic Los Gatos crowd.Seconds later, Mary Ellen Ash showed her scintillating speed to comfortably win the bunch sprint for third, with Starla Teddergreen 5th, Karla Kingsley 8th, Kim Fong 10th and Jen Van Muckey sitting comfortably in the field after her earlier efforts.

All in all, a fabulous effort by the girls in red, and a race that will be remembered for a long time by those who were there.

Thanks goes to all SugarCRM riders and staff, Los Gatos Bicycle Racing Club volunteers and organisers- especially Barry and Aldene, and SugarCRM race mechanic Ryan Bontrager for helping the SugarCRM Women's Cycling Team strive to race at the highest level.

For a full race report on Lyne Lameroux's Podium in Site, click here

Starla Teddergreen features on Cyclingnews USWCDP Rider Diaries

2009-04-29T00:01:00.001-07:00

photo (c) Garrett Lau

SugarCRM rider Starla Teddergreen has made quite an impact on the NorCal racing scene over the last 18 months. With her punchy, attacking style of racing she is now setting her sights on bigger goals, recording her first NRC top ten placing at Dana Point Grand Prix on Sunday. Read her diary entry on the worlds most viewed cycling website: Cyclingnews.

Three SugarCRM riders break the top 12 at Dana Point NRC Criterium!

2009-04-28T23:19:00.000-07:00

Proving that they are more than just a fledgling regional team, SugarCRM placed three riders in 5th (Liza), 9th (Starla) and 11th (Karla) at this weekends Dana Point Grand Prix, which was an NRC (National Road Circuit) event. With all of the top Professional teams sending squads to this SoCal race, the pace was furious from the outset. With only one threatening breakaway gaining advantage at the halfway mark and including a SugarCRM rider, things were looking good for the squad in Red.
However with a serious crash at the halfway point the race was stopped and restarted, setting it up for a bunch sprint.
In the kick Nikki Butterfield and Gina Grain scored a one-two for the dominant Webcor Builders squad, but Liza Rachetto and Starla Teddergreen were hot on their heels to finish in the top ten for SugarCRM. For the Velonews race report, click here.

SugarCRM @ Sea Otter Super D

2009-04-17T18:43:00.000-07:00

Mary Ellen Ash and Karla Kingsley both medaled today in the Super D at Sea Otter. Mary Ellen held her own in the Pro Women field placing 2nd amongst some of best female mountain bike racers in North America. Karla took a commanding 1st in the expert category. Obviously fear is not a factor for these speedsters!

In the Pro Criterium, Liza Rachetto scored 4th place, and the SugarCRM team rode an attacking race in the Pro Circuit Race. Stay tuned for more news, photos and stories from Sea Otter.

Kim Fong 9th in NorCals hardest Classic, Copperopolis.

2009-04-14T21:09:00.000-07:00

Race report by Kim Fong:

First off, how cool is it that Paris-Roubaix and the NCNCA version of the pro-epic, also known as Copperopolis, were on the same weekend? Coincidence or astute planning? The race is hosted by Velo Promo, so take from that what you will.
The Women’s 1/2 field was relatively small, about 15 gals. Lots of locals (three Touchstone, Vanderkitten, Dolce, Alto Velo, Metrominties) and a pro (Rachel Heal from Colavita). We were to do 64 miles in three laps. Each lap started out with a relatively smooth tailwind section into a 10-15 minute climb, followed by several rolling miles and a sharp left turn onto some steeper rollers and a decent headwind; then a shorter and steeper 4-5 minute climb followed by a steep descent to a few more rollers and back to the start/finish area. I'd never raced the course before, but supposedly the pavement was rough and the race favored the “hard man.” I’m not sure what that means, but I was prepared for the worst. Having seen the Copperopolis course and the Leesville Gap course, however, I would have to say that Leesville poses more of a danger to a racer's wheels. The roads of Copperopolis, while not as rough, slowly but surely wear you down.
The race started with a long tailwind section leading up to the feed zone and then the first climb. The pavement wasn't too bad in the first half of the course, and nothing bothered me much until the last lap. The climb strung things out a bit, but we basically crested the first major climb all together. I was feeling pretty good up the climb, and stayed in the top third of the field in case anyone decided to attack. No one did until the road flattened out. There were a few attacks from Touchstone, but nothing stuck. Then, a few kilometers before the second climb, a woman from 3rd Pillar attacked, got a small gap, and was soon joined by a Touchstone and Vanderkitten. The field was content to let them sit out about 50 meters, and I was just sitting watching Colavita to see if/when she'd bridge. Eventually, the Colavita rider did bridge, and though I was prepared, I wasn't able to hold her wheel as we hit the second climb and drifted back. The rest of the field shattered, and a Hopkins Honda woman and I chased the four or five leaders down the descent. We were joined by a few other women and kept the leaders in sight through most of the second lap. But by the second time past the finish, our chase had lost motivation.
By the end of the second lap, I realized I'd only had one bottle of water and a few gels, so I choked down a bar and half a bottle of drink mix, trying not to get too distracted by the pavement that seemed to have gotten worse over the course of the previous laps. But the damage was already done. The third time up the major climb, I was still spinning fine, confident that if it came down to a sprint, I could win out of our chase group or at least put up a good fight. But as we crested the rollers and started to paceline in the middle of the third lap, I found that I couldn't get out of the saddle because the small muscles just above my knee cap would seize up. I pushed through for a few more miles until the sharp left turn, but finally let a gap open that I couldn't close. I duked it out along with the wind and rollers until the finish, had fun trying to hold onto my handlebars down the descent, and rolled into the finish for 9th. Not a stellar performance, but I’m pretty sure I know where big improvement in my race strategy can be made (more convenient fuel sources!!!), so the race wasn’t a total loss. The course and the weather were beautiful, the weekend itself was fun, and I learned a bit more about myself and racing. Definitely a course I’d love to race again. Thanks for reading!

Lindsay in France and SugarCRM in Norcalcyclingnews

2009-04-14T21:01:00.001-07:00

SugarCRM rider Lindsay Myers has raced her first European event in Pujols, France, placing in the "top 20 to 30". For a detailed insight into how she is coping with the mix of French Regional and UCI International events, as well as living at the USA Womens Development team house, click on www.lindsaygoestofrance.blogspot.com

Meanwhile a colourful description of how the Santa Cruz Criterium went down can be viewed at www.Norcalcyclingnews.com

Lindsay Myers 2nd, Starla Teddergreen 4th at Napa Valley GP

2009-04-05T22:11:00.001-07:00

SugarCRM riders put in a sterling effort at the Napa Valley GP, with Lindsay Myers dominating the breakaway to finish 2nd, and Starla Teddergreen winning 2 mid race priems and the bunch kick for 4th. In all, the combined efforts of these two, plus Kim Fong, Jen Van Muckey and Holly Roberts put the other teams including Vanderkitten, Wells Fargo and Touchstone on the back foot for most of the race.

On a tight, 1km circuit that features 7 turns including the infamous "crazy P", the SugarCRM riders ensured a fast opening pace, with Starla Teddergreen launching solo for the first priem prize. Immediately after she was brought back, Lindsay Myers took a flyer that would see her stay away for the remainder of the race.

After a few minutes, Mary Maroon (Vanderkitten) bridged across with Starla in hot pursuit. Maroon made the juncture to Lindsay and her breakaway companion, while Starla powered away wearing out the opposition.

In the closing stages of the race, Lindsay and Mary dropped their breakaway companion, and seizing the initiative Lindsay made a bold attack with 4 corners to go. Alas, Maroon managed to dive throught he final turn in front, and in the tailwind drag to the line claimed victory.

Less than 20 seconds later, Starla used the same technique as Lindsay with success, gapping the field and sprinting strongly to an excellent fourth place finish, with Jen powering to 9th and Kim strong in 11th.

A great day for the SugarCRM gals and they were certainly the most popular crew on the Cycles Gladiator podium!!

Mary Ellen Ash wins CCCX- Toro Park MTB Pro Women's Race

2009-04-01T23:09:00.000-07:00

Photos Courtesy Rick Rasmussen

Mary Ellen Ash used her fearless descending and superb bikehandling techniques to win her first MTB race of the year at the CCCX Toro Park Pro Women's Race.

Despite not having ridden her MTB for many months, Mary Ellen started hard and overcame some mid race fatigue to gain composure and speed as the 2hour epic wore on to win the race by 20 seconds from her nearest competitor.An awesome effort by a fearless competitor congrats M.E.!

For a detailed report by Mary Ellen, click here.

SugarCRM in the Napa Valley Register and Merced County Times

2009-03-24T09:11:00.000-07:00

The Napa Valley Register featured a full interview with SugarCRM rider Lindsay Myers this week, you can read the full article at Napa Valley Register.com while, Liza Rachetto was featured in a promotional photo with Vanderkitten and former Tibco Development rider Charlotte Hart in the Merced County Times

SugarCRM caps off a great weekend of racing at San Dimas

2009-03-23T17:18:00.001-07:00

In their first major stage race as a team, riders from SugarCRM placed Lindsay Myers in 16th on Final General Classification (won by Mara Abbott- Team High Road Columbia), and Liza Rachetto and Karla Kingsley finished 8th and 13th in the final stage Criterium behind a charging Ina Yoko Teutenberg. Starla Teddergreen, Mary Ellen Ash and Kim Fong contributed to the success of the team, riding strongly over the course of the tour with Starla being one of the more attacking riders on the final day.

Land Park Criterium

2009-03-22T16:03:00.000-07:00

Team: Jennifer, Holly, Josie Morgan

Strategy: Work on individual positioning in the pack, go with or initiate breaks if we felt it, otherwise try to maintain a good position out of the brutal wind, and finish strongly.

Other players: Hopkins Honda/Code 3 (5 racers), Vanderkitten (5 racers), Metromint (2), Wells Fargo (4 or 5), Velo Bella (2), Proman (2), various others for a total of 35 starters.

Mission accomplished! All of us had an excellent, safe race. The three of us were in the top 20, with Holly as the top finisher in 6th place.

Several breaks were initiated during the race, with either Jennifer or Holly taking part in them (mostly Jennifer), but nothing really lasted longer than a lap. Not sure if the wind was a factor or what the deal was, but it's such a shame to waste all that energy to get yourself into a break and then have it go: pffffffft. It was just too windy for any one individual to try to TT, so the last short-lived break came back, setting us up for a field sprint into a brutal headwind. Excellent! The entire group moved to the right of the course on the final stretch and Holly put herself into the headwind to move up on the bumpiest part of the course, and was able to pass everyone except for the five duking it out for the win.

After the race, the skies opened up and it poured for about 5 minutes, giving the ground a good soaking, but sparing us from having to race in it!

Till next time -

Holly

SugarCRM goes to LA!

2009-03-21T08:42:00.000-07:00

Lindsay Myers ascending in the Hillclimb TT at San Dimas
Photo by VeronikaLenzi.com

The prologue of the 2009 San Dimas Stage Race in Southern California has been run and won by Mara Abbott from Team Columbia High Road in a time of 15:01. In her first international stage race, Lindsay Myers came in 13th to pace 3rd in the Under 25 category, with Liza Rachetto, Kim Fong, Karla Kingsley and Mary Ellen Ash posting solid finishes in a full Professional field.
Today's stage 2 is a circuit race through Pomona, with a difficult Queen of the Mountian climb that the riders must ascend multiple times. Check back to see how the SugarCRM riders fare in a stage that should see some attacking riding.

A peek at SugarCRM on Shimano Shoes, LOOK Keo Carbon Pedals and DeFeet Socks

2009-03-17T13:45:00.001-07:00

Bike racing is beautiful because it is one of the few sports where athletic success is a combination of human power driving a machine. At the interface of these two components, you need the best equipment to transfer human power through shoe and pedal, to the bike. Fortunately for the SugarCRM riders, they have been supplied with Shimano Women's Specific WRH-80 shoes, LOOK Carbon Keo Pedals and stylish DeFeet Custom socks to keep those pedals turning fast, and stylish!

SugarCRM takes Two wins in Two days at Madera

2009-03-16T22:33:00.000-07:00

Liza Rachetto @ Madera Stage Race. Photo by S.Woo

SugarCRM capitalized on a solid month of attacking racing by finally delivering back to back wins at the Velopromo Madera Stage Race Criterium and Road Race.
The small contingent of SugarCRM riders including Kim Fong, Erin Dunne, Mary Ellen Ash, Liza Rachetto and Lindsay Myers were using the weekend as a final tune up for the San Dimas Stage Race and Redlands Classic NRC, and weren't afraid to put the power down where it mattered most- in the finale.
In the opening Criterium, all of the team riders were active in various moves without being as overtly aggressive as they had at the Menlo Park GP. This paid dividends when in the last three laps, the combined horsepower of Team TIBCO and Touchstone could not hold off a charging Linday Myers who delivered Liza Rachetto to the line in fine fashion. First Pro 1/2 win of the year for Liza, 2nd win for SugarCRM.
In the TT the riders were able to test their positioning and power, with Lindsay picking up 8th place.
The road race was a tough affair, with several teams intent on the field being kept together for a field sprint. After 68 miles on rough, windy and undulating roads Liza Rachetto capitalised on the TIBCO leadout and recorded her second victory in as many days, with Lindsay finishing 4th. With 3 wins so far this season, SugarCRM is now the winningest Pro1/2 team on the West Coast USA.
For a detailed race report by SugarCRM Director Liza, click here

SugarCRM animates the race at Tri-Flow Menlo Park GP

2009-03-09T21:35:00.000-07:00

Photo Copyright Bob Cullinan Cycleto.com

Photo Copyright Garrett Lau

SugarCRM riders put on a show for the spectators at this Sunday's Tri Flow Menlo Park GP, hosted by Velo Girls. With nothing to lose in a high profile field, the gals in red launched attack after attack in an effort to distance themselves from the field sprinters.

Being a home event, the SugarCRM team fielded their entire contingent of 11 Pro 1/2 riders, and put them to use early.

After the pace was set high in the opening laps by Holly, Kelly and Jaimie, Lindsay Myers and Starla Teddergreen launched a series of blistering attacks that drew out the stronger riders in the pack. In doing so, both girls were able to set themselves up to win a majority of the priems on offer.

Jen Van Muckey showed an excellent return to form, setting a high tempo whenever a SugarCRM break was brought back and dissallowing any reprieve for the opposition teams.

With 6 laps to go, Liza Rachetto attacked solo and gained a 200 yard advantage over the main field. A lap later Karla Kingsley bridged the gap to make it two SugarCRM riders charging into the finish on their Blue RC8s.

However the combined strength of Touchstone and Hopkins Honda saw the pair caught on the bell lap, with TIBCO winning the bunch sprint and SugarCRM placing a rider on the podium in 5th (Liza), 6th was a fast finishing Starla Teddergreen and Lindsay Myers rounded out the top 10.

SugarCRM powered by Giro optics and helmets.

2009-03-02T10:10:00.001-08:00

SugarCRM riders were sporting their new team issue Giro optics and helmets at the Merco Credit Union weekend. In awesome black, red and white gloss that matches their SugarCRM kits and Blue RC8 bicycles, the SugarCRM riders were clearly the most stylish girls in the Pro field.

SugarCRM riders will use solely Giro optics and helmets in racing and competition for the remainder of 2009. The Giro Atmos, utilising the Roc Loc 4 and Super Fit Engineering sets the industry benchmark for adjustability, durability and comfort. This Giro helmet features wind-tunnel ventilation that combines 26 active vents with internal exhaust channels that force cool, fresh air over and around your head while forcing stale, warm air out.

The Giro Havik optics feature Giro's Super Fit shaping for a no-interference fit with most helmets as well as Zeiss-certified optics.

SugarCRM leads the pack at Merco Credit Union Weekend

2009-03-02T09:09:00.000-08:00

SugarCRM Women's Team proved they will be a force to be reckoned with in 2009 as they matched the pace of international squads Columbia High Road and Team TIBCO, as well as U.S. squads Proman, Vanderkitten, Colavita, Metromint and Touchstone at this weekends' Merco Credit Union Criterium and Foothills Road Race.
Lindsay Myers announced her arrival as a top shelf competitor driving the pace in the 75 minute criterium and finishing 8th in the road race, while Karla Kingsley and Liza Rachetto managed 7th and 8th in the sprint at the criterium.

Photo Courtesy of Steven Woo.

Starla Teddergreen showed her attacking nature, forcing herself into a break with the world's winningest racer Ina Yoko Teutenberg (Germany) from Columbia High road and claiming a priem sprint.

Jen Van Muckey and Kim Fong showed strength and responsibility in surfing their riders to the front of the peleton when needed, and attacking at times when it looked like crucial breaks might get away.

The team was ably suported by Matt MacNamara on the radio, giving crucial tactical advice as the riders wound their way around the fast, sweeping circuits.

For an in depth Criterium Race report from Karla Kingsley and RoadRace Report from Lindsay Myers click here: http://www.sugarcrmwomenracereport.blogspot.com/

All in all the SugarCRM girls showed that they are an entirely new force in 2009, committed to solid teamwork and ready to bring their game to race day.

photos by J.Coulter.

For some great action shots by Ronald Mariano click here:

SUPER K IN THE NEWS AGAIN!

2009-02-19T20:10:00.000-08:00

Karla sprinting to 4th in the Amgen Tour of California Women's Criterium. (photo courtesy of Kurt Harvey)

Follow this link to read Karla's latest entry in Cycling News...

http://www.cyclingnews.com/riders/2009/diaries/uswcdp/?id=uswcdp0903

Karla Kingsley 4th@ Amgen Women's Tour of California

2009-02-16T01:42:00.000-08:00

Image by J.Suzuki

Bay Area SugarCRM rider Karla Kingsley took a stunning 4th place at today's Women's Amgen Tour of California Criterium in Santa Rosa. In a completely rainsoaked diced to the finish, Karla was beaten by Swedish National Champion Emilia Fahlin (Columbia-High Road) and US National Team members Lauren Franges (Team TIBCO) and Rachel lloyd (PROMAN).With over 20000 spectators on hand at the finishing circuits, thetense international field raced at a frenetic speed that saw manycontendors sliding into the barriers as they tried to maintain thehigh average speed.Early in the race, a significant move of 12 riders went clearcontaining representatives from all the major teams includingColumbia, TIBCO, Webcor, Vanderkitten, Proman and Karla from SugarCRM.In the main peleton, the SugarCRM team patrolled the moves as theyattempted to put another rider in the break while negating anyopportunites for pre race favourites Brooke Miller (Tibco) and InaYoko Teutenberg (Germany, Columbia- High Road). In the final moments of the race several attempts by Touchstone andWebcor came to no fruition and a breakaway sprint was inevitable.In the furious dash to the line Karla was able to go head to head withsome of the most talented athletes in the world and hold her head highas she earned an astounding 4th place and a massive bonus check fromAmgen to share with her jubilant teammates.

SugarCRM wins Webcor San Jose Classic Criterium

2009-02-14T23:43:00.000-08:00

photo by Michael Hernandez

SugarCRM picked up a win in the first major North American womens race of the year, the Webcor San Jose Classic Criterium. In a stellar field that included US National Champion Brooke Miller and Kat Carroll from Team TIBCO, multiple former US champion Tina Mayola Pic from Colavita, Webcor's World Cup Winner Kathryn Curi Matthis and all the dominant US Professional Teams, Laura Van Gilder (SugarCRM) used her craftiness and a superbly efficient SugarCRM team to claim the victory in the sprint to the line. The race was animated by a number of attacks from a peleton of riders eager to test their legs at this season opener. With 5 laps to go, a dangerous break including Kathryn Matthis was brought back, and SugarCRM began the leadout, with a full force TIBCO taking over 2 laps from the finish.But it was the experience and pure speed of Van Gilder that gave SugarCRM their first win of 2009- in their first major race as a team! For Bobby Parizi's fotos of the team go to:

http://picasaweb.google.com/porscheslider/SanJoseCrit?authkey=AsmY-UPu-BQ#

and for Michael Hernandez's take see http://www.norcalcyclingnews.com/

Image Copyright Bobby Parizi

Laura Van Gilder to Lead SugarCRM at Amgen Tour of California Criterium

2009-02-12T07:25:00.000-08:00

Two time NRC winner Laura Van Gilder, with over 350 career wins to her credit, will lead SugarCRM at this weekend's San Jose Classic Criterium and Amgen Tour of California Criterium. In her 18th season as a Professional, Laura shows no sign of slowing down and recentlyplaced 19th at the World Cyclocross Championships in Holland on Feb 1-when most road riders were in their off season. Laura previously raced with SugarCRM Director Liza Rachetto on TEAm Lipton in 2006, and the pair are looking forward to guiding their stellar roster through this weekend's racing, which has a combined purse of over $20000 for the women professional racers.

SugarCRM Girls Fine Tune Tour of California Prep at Season Opening Cherry Pie Criterium

2009-02-08T21:23:00.000-08:00

The SugarCRM squad today fine tuned their Tour of California criterium preparation by racing the Cherry Pie Criterium in Napa, Ca.
The 8 riders slated for next weekend had the opportunity to test their legs against the likes of riders from Team TIBCO, PROMAN Hit Squad, Metromint, Touchstone Climbing and Webcor Sportvelo. After strong riding at the front of the pack on a testing, windy circuit, Lindsay Myers made the major break of the day with Sarah Bamberger (Touchstone), Alison Starnes (Team TIBCO) and the PROMAN duo of Rachel Llyod and Megan Guarnier.
Unfortunately for Lindsay, the experience of the pro riders led to her being forced back into the main peleton in the closing stages of the race.
Despite a late resergence by her, Karla Kingsley and strong riding from Erin Dunne, the break managed to stay away and SugarCRM was left to contest the bunch kick, placing two riders in the back end of the top ten.
Earlier in the day Liza Rachetto and Jen Van Muckey achieved first and third in the Womens Masters Category, bringing the Blue RC8 onto its first podium of 2009 and earning a couple of Cherry Pies in the process!

SugarCRM Women attend SugarCON

2009-02-04T21:09:00.000-08:00

Just a couple of weeks prior to the 2009 debut of the SugarCRM women's Cycling Team at the Amgen Tour of California Santa Rosa Criterium, members of the team showcased the team jersey and equipment at SugarCON, SugarCRM's third annual user and customer conference. On hand to answer questions about racing, womens fitness and cycling in general were team members Erin Dunne, Karla Kingsley, Jen Van Muckey and Liza Rachetto.

Blue Competition Cycles RC8 Preview

2009-01-19T17:52:00.000-08:00

You may have already seen the SugarCRM girls riding around the Los Gatos, Cupertino and Bay Area and up through Napa Valley on the beautiful 2009 Blue RC8. Courtesy of Blue Competition Cycles and Cupertino Bike Shop, the women's elite team will be aboard these stunning machines for the entire 2009 season.

Resplendent in a red and black livery that closely matches the SugarCRM colors, these bikes are made of high modulus T700 carbon fibre and are light, stiff yet vertically compliant. (the frameset comes in at 1080g for a medium- all of the girls bikes will be sub 1kg!) Decked out with complete SRAM Force gruppo and Ksyrium Elite wheels, the RC8 is strong enough to withstand the finishing kick of Karla Kingsley and Mary-Ellen Ash, and light enough to dance up the mountains under the guidance of Kim Fong and Lindsay Myers.

Whats better, is that if you want to ride the exact same bike as used by the SugarCRM/ LGBRC Women's Elite Team, then you can check out Cupertino Bike Shop or any one of the dealers across the USA listed at http://www.rideblue.com/

Photos and Story by Jono Coulter (Profisc)

2009 Sugar CRM/ LGBRC Womens Elite Team Announced

2008-09-02T18:48:00.001-07:00

2008 was a sensational year for the Los Gatos Bicycle Racing Club Elite Women’s Team. Under the guidance of Jennifer Van Muckey, the team won 13 races in 2008, including a stage of Superweek with Karla Kingsley and multiple NCNCA victories for Mary Ellen Ash. Kim Fong is the current Northern California/ Nevada District under 23 Road Racing Champion.

Not bad for a developing club team of new and upcoming riders competing in the competitive Pro and elite women’s arena.

Due to their superb successes, Sugar CRM– the world’s leading provider of open source customer relationship management (CRM) software, has signed on as the title sponsor for the team in 2009. This will allow the team to make a significant advance in committing to top level events, while promoting the title and associate sponsors on a greater platform.

Crucially, the team has hired the services of former European based Professional Liza Rachetto as Director, in order to give the developing riders a chance to hone their skills at some of the premier events in the USA. This will also allow the team to work in conjunction with the US Women’s Cycling Development Program (USWCDP) allowing young and talented riders to have access to the best coaching, equipment and advice the USA has to offer as they prepare for the national and international stage. Additionally, the team is in the process of acquiring a couple of top shelf riders for guaranteed firepower across the ranks.

The 2009 SugarCRM/ Los Gatos Women's Elite Team will consist of :

Lindsay Myers

Starla Teddergreen

Karla Kingsley

Mary Ellen Ash

Kim Fong

Jennifer Van Muckey

Liza Rachetto (D.S.)

The team will ride exclusively Blue RC8 competition Bicycles with SRAM Force Groupsets. Pedals are from LOOK USA, with Giro supplying helmets and optics. Nutrition is provided by CLIF Bar, while the girls will be decked out in clothing by Voler.