Marin World Cup 2009 Final Results

Place	Rider	GPKH	M-R	TSRF	TOTAL
1	Jonas Lodewick	1000	250	1000	2250
2	Van Von Simeon	100	0	2000	2100
3	Dario Fredericcio	500	500	0	1000
4	Baen Van der Standish	0	0	500	500
5	Ken Hushvod	250	-	125	375
6	Jimmi Robinski	0	125	250	375
7	Markus Clijsters	125	100	50	275
8	Stign Cherry	75	75	100	250
9	R.A. Von Schmidt	25	0	75	100

Defiant Van von Simeon Makes Good on Claim of Victory

Gritty 2nd Place by Jonas Lodewick Secures MWC Overall.

All the elements were in place for a legendary 3rd edition of the Ronde von SanRaflaanderrs: high winds, freezing temperatures, a top level field and a parcours that the riders are calling the hardest in recent memory.  The result?  A SanRaflaanderrs that will no doubt take it's place alongside the 1994 Paris-Roubaix, the 1969 Tour of Flanders and other historic races in the annals of cycling history.

Van von Simeon upheld his pre-race boast that he would "not [wait] for anyone next week" and rode away from the leisurely paced group over the top of the Fairberg.  Although a determined chase by a bloodied and battered Jonas Lodewick and Dewars teammate Baen van der Standish was able to bridge up to Van von Simeon on the Corbetberg, shortly thereafter a mechanical by van der Standish on the descent of the Bridgeberg caused Lodewick to elect to wait for his compatriot and allowed von Simeon to finish alone atop Seminary Hill.  Lodewick and van der Standish came in 2-3 shortly thereafter, nearly 10 minutes ahead of the rest of the field.

Van von Simeon's win was not with out controversy however, as directly after the race PHRO officials met behind closed doors with the on site race commissaires to determine if von Simeon had contravened race regulations by attacking on the Fairberg in a neutral zone while other riders were stopping for the "call of nature."  After much discussion however, the result was allowed to stand and von Simeon was awarded the victory.  

PHRO President Joos Litvalk (pictured here smoking his ubiquitious cigarillio) was quoted thusly, "While PHRO feels that the conduct exhibited by Van von Simeon was borderline unsportsmanlike and was not reflective of what PHRO believes is the 'true nature' of SanRaflaanderrs, we cannot say with any conviction that it violated the letter of race regulations.  While PHRO will not support the stratagem, we will also not intervene in the outcome of the race.  If anything, Van von Simeon is only guilty of taking himself and this race too seriously.  Future sanctions regarding his eligibility for future PHRO events is under review at this time."

A humbled Ken Hushvod finished in the pack, putting an end to his claims that Lodewick was weak and that he would triumph in spite of his points relegation in Marin-Roubaix.  A visibly exhausted Hushvod said at the finish, "Lodewick and van der Standish started to chase von Simeon at the top of the Altoberg but I could not hold their wheels, they were going too hard.  My legs were cement today, not what I had hoped for.  I will be satisfied with my [tainted-Ed.] victory in Marin-Roubaix and I plan on resting up and preparing for the end of summer China Camp ITT."

Lodewick was uncharacteristically subdued at the post-race podium ceremony and only has this to say: "Yes, I crashed twice, once on the descent of Makin Grade and again at the entrance to the Maderia Creek pavé

 but that did not hinder my performance today.  Van der Standish and I made a good account of ourselves by chasing down von Simeon but unfortunately I had to wait for Baen due to a mechanical on the Bridgeberg.  Victory was possible as I had good sensations on the climb but fate intervened."  Regarding the tactics of von Simeon he had only a few taciturn words, "Von Simeon will ride how he will ride, I cannot affect that, and he rode a strong race.  I rode with honor this night, and I have the MWC overall as a prize.  I am satisfied with my performance."

While there was an abundance of drama at the tête de la course, perhaps the most compelling story line of the event was unfolding at the posterior of the 

group.  A furious engagement was waged by multiple riders for the prestigious Lantern Rouge award for the last finisher.  An award that has seemingly been been the birthright of the "Red Devil" R.A. vonSchmidt, saw challenges from all angles over the winding byways of central Marin.  While vonSchmidt surely did his best from the outset to cement his place as the 

MWC "Red Flame of Mediocrity," Markus Clijisters and Stijn Cherry were not going down without a fight.  While for a time, Clijister's looked to be in contention with the leaders, while chasing a charging Hushvod and fighting for the wheel of Lodewick on the lower slopes of the Altoberg, he suffered what can only be described as a volcanic eruption on the scale of Mt Vesuvius.  He proceeded to go backwards as though shot from a cannon, surprising vonSchmidt and Cherry to the extent that they nearly lost the Flame right then and there.  Like it's predecessor Pompeii, Northern Mill Valley will be feeling the effects of Clijister's massive eruption and subsequent crater for years to come.  

Stijn Cherry, meanwhile, went so far in his quest to unseat vonSchmidt that he rode a mountain bike on the course!  This unconventional thinking is either a level of genius, previously untapped in Cherry or just another attempt to increase the difficulty factor to satisfy his needs for suffering.  An obvious handicap to Cherry, the bulky tires and low gears, not to mention the porpoise-like bobbing suspension actually had an unlooked for side affect: allowing Cherry to descend in a more comfortable fashion and arrive at the finish with more energy that many of the other competitors.  

This unlikely strategy seems to have backfired for Cherry and as a result, though the surprise challenge from "The Human Crater" Markus Clijsiters was unexpected, vonSchmidt was able to dig deep into his well of lethargy and successfully complete his quest for his 3rd straight Lantern Rouge.

Another edition of Ronde von San Raflaanders is in the books and it seem likely that this one may provide fodder for discussion for the years to come.

Wind May Play A Factor in the 3rd Annual Rhonde San Raflaanderrs

After two years of spectacular weather, wind may play a factor in tonight's Rhonde San Raflaanderrs. Big, meaty men like Jonas Lodewick and Jimmey Ribinski may have a distinct advantage. Fly weight riders like Macus Cijisters and Stjin Cherry may simply be blown away.

The Rhonde San Raflaanders, the final stage of the MWC begins at 6:45PM on B Street.

Ribinski Arrested!

May not start San Raflaanderrs!

Jimmey Ribinski's San Raflaanderrs may be over before the race even begins. In the early Tuesday morning hours Ribinski was arrested by San Rafael authorities for an altercation with a Storm Trooper at a local bar.

The altercation was reportedly over Russian model Nadia Shaykhlislarnova. Van von Simeon of the Whole Athlete team was with Ribinski at the time. Van von Simeon was briefly detained but released shortly after 3AM. Ribinski was booked at the county jail and is scheduled to be released just hours before the official San Raflaanderrs sign in at 6:45PM. Many feel this is just the wake up call Ribinski needs to make a strong showing.

Late Breaking News!

Federiccio close to signing one-day contract with Northside Wheelmen!

In one of the most amazing twists to the Marin World Cup thus far, Dario Federiccio may not be a scratch for the Rhonde San Raflaanderrs after all. Details are sketchy at this time, but an official close to the negotiations says the Whole Athlete rider will ride for Northside Wheelmen Tuesday night.

Stijin Cherry, Northside Wheelmen rider and a founding father was seen in a moving truck late Monday night. When asked about the late developing news, Cherry was quick to comment. “Joos Livalk has forced Frederiicco’s hand. By not allowing Whole Athlete Juniors into the race, the director has once again favored his friend Jonas Lodewick. Stupid rule! I wouldn’t be surprised if Lodewick made the rule himself. Litvalk is a puppet! There was a payoff.”

Plus, added Cherry, leaning in close explain his point, “Fredericcio is a Northsider. Always has been! Always will be!”

With Northside strongman Ken Hushvod out of the MWC overall, a partnership between the two will likely crush Lodewick’s hopes to claim the San Raflaanderrs win and MWC crown. A Hushvod-Federiccio 1-2 punch, as everyone obviously knows, would be unbeatable.

Details of the one-day contract have not been made public at this time. A phone call to the Federiccio household went unanswered at 6:30PM PDT. Not known to stay out late, it is assumed Fredericcio had retired to bed for the evening.

Mailbag Answers

Xinia,

Thank you so much for your letter. See you at the Hushvod booster party Tuesday night! It wasn't easy tracking down your old heroes, but we have a few answers for you!

Jeffe Cantarutti

Congrats should be offered to Jeffe Cantarutti who recently dominated the Kent Lake Challenge a well known but small Bass fishing tournament in California. Cantarutti's strong showing caught the eyes the Italian National Bass Team looking to put a European stamp on the Bass Master Elite Series. Jeff will be shooting for the Angler of the Year and a brand New Toyota Tundra.

Jens Van Wyngaert

Jens Wyngaert has unfortunately fallen on bad times. He was recently admitted to Napa State Hospital where he is currently recovering from an streaking incident in his hometown of San Francisco. Rather than go to jail, Wyngaert opted for the mental hospital. As you can see here, he has not fully recovered.

Marcus Peuusheler

Marcus Peuusheler rides his bike occasionally, but is more interested in preparing his border collie mix for the Border Collie World Championships in Munich this June. Marcus is also running for Minister in his small German hometown. Seen here at a fund raising lunch, Peuushler's campaign is based on naming Sierra Nevada Pale Ale as Germany's official beer. This has angered many of his compatriots.

Baen van der Standish

Baen van der Standish, seen here training in the wine country is seriously considering a ride in this year's Rhonde San Raflannderrs. PHRO director Joot Litvalk has assured van der Standish that PHRO does not have a helmet rule. In response, van der Standish is reportedly a possible starter.

Andee "dutch crunch" Van Amerseen

The "dutch crunch" can often be found riding his bike in Richmond, California. Van Amerseen has accepted a job as a traffic conductor for the California Transportation Agency known as Cal Trans.

Dougart Delonesh

Dougart Delonesh is doing just fine as seen in this picture. Delondish has not been seen riding much of late as he is assisting Jeffe Cantarutti's run at the Bass Master Championships later this month. In the meantime Dougart will continue enjoying his primary passion the musical arts.

Dear Tuesday Night World Championships...

Hello,

I am a HUGE cycling fan. I am really looking forward to tomorrow night's San Raflannderrs. I will be waiting along the Gerstleberg and at the finish. My favorite rider is by far Ken Hushvod. He is the bomb! But I like all the riders like Davey van VonSimeon and Jimmi Robinski. Jimmy is super cool, especially when he grows his hair out. I hear that he is single and has a hot tub too. Is that true?

Anyway, I was wondering where some of the old time riders are. I know Mathys Foley is washed up, and Johan Finley is now working as a bank teller. However, I'd love to know where some of my old favorites are now. Where are the old superstars such as Jens Van Wyngaert, Marcus Peuusheler, Baen van der Standish, the "dutch crunch" Andee Van Amerseen, Dougart Delonesh and Jeffe Cantarutti?

Please PLEASE tell me how my former heros are faring. And if you find them...foward them my facebook account!

Thank you!

Xinia Deportes

*A BIG FAN!

XOXOXO

Special San Raflaanderrs Early News Edition

Fredericcio Possible Late Scratch for San Raflaanderrs

The rumor mill is churning with a purpose in Marin today with an unconfirmed report coming out of the Whole Athlete camp that team captain Dario Fredericcio may not start tomorrows Ronde von San Raflaanderrs.  While no official statement has been issued, many are speculating that Fredericcio's possible non-start may be a symbolic statement on his denied petition on the relegation of Ken Hushvod in this past weeks Marin-Roubaix.  Fredericcio, who apparently felt poorly used by PHRO in the matter, is currently second behind Jonas Lodewick in the MWC overall standings and if indeed he does not take the line on B St tomorrow, this will likely spell certain victory for Lodewick.  

R.A. Von Schmidt Vows to Retain Red Lantern Title Despite Marin-Roubaix Absence

Belgian hardcase, R.A. VonSchmidt is trying a new approach in his quest to capture an unprecedented 3rd straight Lantern Rouge title - Not Starting.  A surprise no-show at last weeks Marin Roubaix suffer-fest, VonSchmidt has taken the art of indolence to an previously unexplored level.  Apparently concerned about his ability to ride slower than everyone else and feeling threatened by a challenge from newcomer Stijn Cherry for the title of Most Torpid, Von Schmidt devised a new stratagem for losing...not starting at all.  The result?  An even firmer grasp on the Red Flame of Mediocrity.  "I respect and fear Stijn's methodical pace and also his overt level of relaxation.  To lose to him, I had to think "outside the box" and create a new methodology.  By not starting, I avoid the dreaded DNF, yet also manage to escape the most damaging statistic of all: a placing."  VonSchmidt looks to secure his title this Tuesday in San Raflaanders.  What new wrinkle will he come up with this time?  Riding backwards?  Puncturing his own tyre?  Pre-breaking his chain?

Van der Standish Looking for First San Raflaanderrs Finish

While no one in this cycling rich region would think to question the experience and palmeries of Baen Van der Standish, 

the Sonoma County cycling star is not taking his first Marin World Cup event lightly.  "I am riding this year's Ronde von San Raflaanderrs solely for training and experience.  To think that I could be competitive with the Marin strongmen in their home race on my first attempt would be folly of the highest order.  I will follow wheels, learn the course and hope for a top 10 finish."  

The potential start of Van der Standish has more than a few cycling pundits questioning if he is a ringer brought in by Lodewick as they were, at one time, teammates on the now defunct Dewar's Racing powerhouse team of the early part of the decade.  Keeping a sharp eye out for envelopes being passed between the entourage of Lodewick and the Dewar's team car will likely be great sport for the fans on Tuesday's Ronde.

War of Words Continues Between Hushvod and Lodewick

In a rivalry that has reached levels unseen since the likes of Abbott and Costello, Ken Hushvod and Jonas Lodewick have maintained a veritable fusillade of aspersion towards one another this past week with both sides lobbing their fair share of invective.  

Lodewick, who in a post Marin-Roubaix interview obliquely referred to Hushvod's strategy of marking his wheel in every move as "cowardly" and prior to Hushvod's namesake event, the GP Hushvod, remarked that the aging local star was "washed up."  Hushvod for his part answered Lodewick's convincing win in the ITT with a victory of his own at the Marin-Roubaix, dropping Lodewick with little under 500m to go in the velodrome.  In the days since the race, the press has picked up on several stories that allege Lodewick's "family trip" to San Diego was, in reality, a secret training exercise as well as releasing photos that show a wrecked silver Audi A4 that is claimed to be Lodewick's.

  

While no official connection has been made, it is virtually certain that Hushvod has loosed his pet paparazzi on Lodewick in a contemptible effort to distract the charismatic star from focusing on tomorrow's San Raflaanderrs.  In a statement released today by his public relations staff, Lodewick refuted these claims and placed the onus directly on Hushvod to claim responsibility.  

"It is well known that my wife's family is in San Diego and that we were there for her cousin's wedding.  These rumors that I was training are totally without merit and only proves that Hushvod must resort to deceit and trickery to attempt to gain an edge.  In fact, in order to make my point, I have not ridden any training miles in 5 days as preparation for San Raflaanderrs.  I plan to arrive at the start line as the most unprepared rider there, if only to show the cretin Hushvod that class, good looks, great hair and a well put together kit will triumph over his sloppy clothing, "Tractor" bike and substantial paunch every day of the week."

Lodewick is obviously pulling no punches in his statement and he went on to say, "Hushvod attempting to sic the paparazzi on me is contemptable.  My visage is known from Milan to Sunset Blvd and only his sycophantic local news hacks would swallow such absurdity.  I'm suprised that Hushvod didn't follow me to San Diego...he seems follows my wheel everywhere else!"

Well then.  It would certainly seem that Tuesday San Raflaanderrs will, if nothing else, be not without fireworks.

Rumor Wheel! Sonnen Ends Lodewick Sponsorship?

It was learned this morning that Sonnen Motor Cars may have terminated its relationship with Jonas Lodewick. This may have had something to do with Lodewick's violent outburst at a photographer while training in San Diego this weekend, or simply his poor driving skills. Lodewick has for years been driving newer model Audis in a sweetheart deal with Sonnen. However, he may have damaged his last Audi ride. The Sonnen/Lodewick relationship was likely terminated this morning. Lodewick was seen dropping off his damaged Silver Audi A4 in the early morning hours at Sonnen Motorcars. Lodewick was seen riding off on his bicycle, rather than driving the customary loaner A5 given to high profile customers during servicing.

This is surprising move given Lodewick's strong performance at this year's MWC. However, many believe that Lodewick's combustible personality is at fault. Perhaps Sonnen is well aware of Lodewick's diminishing skills (both driving and on the bike) and that the public has grown tired of his over-the-top personality. This must come as a crushing blow to Lodewick's ego on the eve of San Rafalannderrs. Many feel this will have a major effect on Ledewick's already fragile confidence.

More breaking news as we learn more.

Cycling Quick Shots

Lodewick Busted Again!

Jonas Lodewick has once again been caught taking things a bit too seriously. Reportedly in San Diego for a "family event", Litvalk was spotted on the southern coast of California during a 6 hour training ride. Clearly in preparation for Tuesday's Rhonde San Raflanders, Lodewick looked strong. Of course, when questioned about the family event, Lodewick had no comment. When pressed further, Litvalk became visibly angry, shoving a photographer and nearly throwing a punch before riding off.

Boonen a scratch at San Raflanders

Shortly after news of Litvalk's secret miles was leaked, Tom Boonen cancelled his flight to the United States. Tom Boonen, a one-time friend of Lodewick has not been seen with Lodewick in some time. Many have claimed that the bromance has cooled in recent weeks. The Boonen camp has stated that Boonen's cancellation is due to a "tight schedule and fatigue," but nearly everyone close to the story knows better. Boonen feels Lodewick hold on the MWC crown is secure. With Hushvod out of the MWC points race, only worn down Italian Fredericco stands in Lodewick's way.

Mathys Foley Booster Club..shuts down

As of April 11, 2009, the Mathys Foley Booster Club closed its doors. "We have no money, we have no hero. We have nothing to cheer for," said a dejected and likely once beautiful woman outside the boarded up office. Mathys Foley has not started one event of this year's MWC series.

German Jens Van Wyngaert Says Screw It!

One-time darling of the German drinkers standing along the course, Jens Van Wyngaert was seen riding this weekend in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park. Reportedly riding off yet another "big night," Wyngaert, when asked if he would be starting the 2009 San Raflanders simply said. "screw it!"

Hushvod's Winning Ride!

Surly might describe many of the rider's attitudes towards Ken Hushvod's controversial victory at Tuesday's Marin Roubaix. Ironically, Surly is also the name of Hushvod's winning ride. The beautiful green Surly Cross-Check, much like Hushvod himself, could make a schoolgirl blush. Outfitted in 90's era Shimano Ultegra brake lever shifters and a potpourri of other low level components, Hushvod's ride was sight to behold.

"Tractor"
Of special note was Hushvod's tire set up. On the rear, Hushvod opted to run a worn cross tire of an unknown origin. On the front was a Continental road tire, reportedly ridden through the Paskenta gravel in 2006. Marcus Clisjsters said the bike resembled a "Tractor."

"The bike set up was awesome," commented Hushvod. "Had Litvalk not held me up in the Chinawerp pave I would have likely ridden away from everone right there."

Hushvod experienced his second flat in two weeks, mirroring Fredericco claims of sabotage. However, it seems the Hushvod booster club is not the culprit. Many are pointing fingers at Mathys Foley and Johan Finley, disgruntled, one-time hopefuls who have not been seen at any of this year's MWC events.

Ronde von San Raflaanderran - Race Announcement

Official Race Announcement:

Ronde von san Raflaanderran

 Presented by PHRO.

April 14th, 2009

Event Schedule:

6:45 pm – Ceremonial parade departure from the Hushvod Boosters Clubhouse on B St, San Rafael.
7:00 pm – Neutral Zone Ends

7:15 pm – Gerstleberg

7:45 pm – Fairberg

8:30 pm – Kingberg (cima Jimmi)

8:45 pm – Finish (estimated)

9:00 pm – Results and podium ceremony at Hushvod Boosters Clubhouse.

Event Description:

The premiere event and crown jewel of the Marin World Cup "Super Month," the Ronde von San Raflaanderrs is a legendary event in the storied history of Marin County.  Heroes are made and broken on the steep slopes of the many bergs, which are the signature in this test of courage.  Littered throughout the countryside, these often savagely steep climbs are as varied as the riders who will contest the victory.

Several new climbs are featured this year that have not been used in past editions of the Ronde.  Riders get a rude awakening right out of the gate as they are forced to ascend the Gerstleberg, a medium length climb that begins with an average 22% asphalt slope that abruptly turns to dirt with no relief in the grade.  While tough, this early in the race, this will more likely serve to wake up the riders than create any selections.

The other key bergs to note are in particular the Kingberg, which is the longest and highest point in the race, featuring an almost 1k climb entirely on dirt with a less than ideal surface, the Bridgeberg which will likely be the last opportunity for a break to form and the last climb, the entirely new Havenberg.  The Havenberg, while not especially steep, has it's peak at exactly 1k to go in the race.  With its repeated switchbacks (a la L'Alp d'Huez) the Havenberg will be the final opportunity to attack before the final uphill sprint to the top of Seminary hill and the finish line.

While the field will come for a myriad of backgrounds, San Raflaanderrs caters to the strongmen of the spring, riders who are able to attack with power up the short climbs as well as descend with abandon are the rule of the day.  The only sure outcome is that whoever ends up on the podium will, no doubt, have earned their place.

The course starts at B St and finishes at the top of the hill at the San Anselmo Theological Seminary and is run in a clockwise circuit.  It is NOT a closed course and riders can be expected to see automobiles, pedestrians, hikers and possibly other cyclists.

*******This event is run entirely for fun and not for profit.  To borrow a phrase: "The less fun you have, the more you'll pay."  Anyone over the age of 18 is welcome to attend.  Registration is free but the promoter is accepting donations.  Leffe, Duvel and Stella Artoisare preferred but anything of Western European origin is acceptable currency.  Anyone found taking this event seriously will be banished from all Marin World Cup events for a time period no less than 1 year.  Also, you will suck.  Safety first.********