Saturday, July 4, 2009
Not Forgotten Just Busy:
The Florida Bicycling Hall Of Fame is still a go. Just too busy to get to it right now. Changes in work life, bad economy, family, life ---- I will get back to it.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
FBHOF HAS MOVED
Seems that the Previous Free Blog I was using was lost, hijacked or was being redirected. I moved it below. I have not finished the project so be patient. All information was backed up and is secure.
Current Inductees
John Sinibaldi, Jeanne Goley, Carl Sundquist, Shelly Allen, Earl Henry
Nominations Continue
John Sinibaldi
Honorary Nomination - as he is already in the U.S. Bicycling Hall of Fame.
John Sinibaldi–John "The Legend" Sinibaldi, a resident of Pinellas County, Florida, passed away in his sleep on January 10, 2006 at the age of 92, after a short battle with lung cancer. Fortunately he was not in any pain and passed peacefully, with his family by his side.
John's legacy as a cyclist will not soon be forgotten, few if any cyclists will ever achieve what he did. His cycling career spanned an amazing 77 years, all if it at the top of the national amateur picture. Eighteen-time national champion, two-time Olympian in 1932 and 1936, and finally inducted into the United States Bicycling Hall of Fame in 1997. John’s first victory at a national level race came in 1928; he won his last national championship in 2006 at the USA Cycling Masters National Road Championships. A conservative estimate puts his lifetime mileage at well over a half-million miles.
However, his cycling legacy extends far beyond his own accomplishments. John spent the better part of the past 30 years promoting cycling as a sport, encouraging participation amongst new cyclist, and helping many cyclists realize their potential. For over seven decades John was an informal ambassador for the sport, he always rejoiced when someone new arrived at a group ride for the first time.
Jeanne Golay
Photograph pending
Honorary Nomination - as she is already in the U.S. Bicycling Hall of Fame.
Jeanne Golay – a 1992 and 1996 Olympian and a 2008 inductee into the United States Cycling Hall of Fame. She is a five-time world champion and nine-time national champion racing successfully on the road, in time trials and on the track during the 1980’s and 90’s. In 1992 she won the road race, time trial and the team time trial event and as of 2008she was the last woman to win three national championship titles. USA Cycling also awarded her with the Stenner Scholarships while she attended the University of Florida. At the 1992 Barcelona, Spain Olympics she participated in the Individual Road Race finishing 6th place. At 1996 Atlanta Olympics she participated in the Individual Time Trial placing16th; Points Race17th and Individual Road Race, 29th.
Jeanne trained in Florida with other Olympic cyclists such as Carl Sundquist, Andy Weaver and Chris Carmichael by using the Florida head winds as a training tool. From 1988 to 1996 she won over thirty national and international races and in 1992 won the United States Cycling Federation Athlete of the Year Award. She was the 1992 Olympics taking 6th in the women's road race. Jeanne's continued success led to future wins and a lead role with the dominant Saturn Professional Women's Road Team.
She is currently listed as residing in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. She is being inducted into the Florida Cycling Hall of Fame due to residency in Florida while attending a state college and training in the State of Florida.
Nomination by FBHOF
Carl Sundquist
Photograph pending
Honorary Nomination - as a past Olympian
Carl Sundquist is a four time National Champion, Pan Am Gold Medalist (Team Pursuit), World Silver Medalist (Team Pursuit), six time National Team Pursuit Champion, former World Speed Record holder and two time Olympian. Carl was a Central Florida resident while training for the Olympics and continued to live in the State after his cycling retirement. He participated in the 1988 Seoul, South Korea Olympics in the 4000 meter Team Pursuit and in the1992 Barcelona, Spain Olympics in the 4000 meter Individual Pursuit placing 12th.
Carl Sundquist was teamed with Vande Velde, Mariano Friedick, Zach Conrad and Adam Laurent, to win the gold medal at the 1995 Pan Am Games in a record time. He is a former world sprint record holder in a Moby long wheelbase bicycle reaching 59.10 mph and in a Lightning X2 Former "low-altitude” reaching 64.19 mph.
During the time of Carl Sundquist championship time trials were trademarks of Florida bicycle racing where many riders trained in Florida's well-known windy conditions. Olympic cyclists such as Carl Sundquist, Jeanne Golay, Andy Weaver and Chris Carmichael lived and trained in Florida and gained toughness while hammering into the wind. Carl raced for such teams as Team Lycra, Boston Mountain Cyclist, and BREW bicycles built Track frames for years for Olympian Carl Sundquist.
Nomination by FBHOF
Earl Henry
Earl's Henry is a Florida resident from Pinellas Park (Pinellas County), Florida and his cycling particulars are extensive. He's began racing as a teenager and has continued to do so for at least 50 years. Earl holds many state, national and international racing titles and was a world record holder.
Notably, in 2004 at the European Nationals Track Championship in Manchester England, Earl competed in the 500meter time trial for age group 60-64 year olds when Victor Copeland took Trinidad's, Earl Henry's world record set in 2002. At the 2008 European Nationals Track Championship in Manchester England, Men’s Track Sprint age 65–69 Earl Henry of Trinidad & Tobago won the Gold medal in 13.673 seconds. He won Silver against Victor Copeland at track nationals in the 500-meter. Victor Copeland is one of his oldest and most fierce competitors. Earl is a seven time world champion in the Masters 500 meter and match sprint categories. He has long-standing and very impressive results racing at the national level at the USA Cycling Masters Track National Championships in the 200 meter and 500 meter disciplines.
What could be more important than leaving a legacy in the world of cycling and with that in mind, the thing that the I can confidently say about Earl is that locally, Earl has helped many people on the local racing scene including recent state champion female cyclist, Lori Castellano by offering his unlimited words of racing wisdom. Earl frequently stood on the sidelines while Lori was racing to cheer her on and to yell instructions, as he has for many of us in years past. Earl Henry is a tireless and altruistic one-man cheering section. He has volunteered as a mentor to many female cyclists who went on to win world championships, including former Olympian Lucy Tyler. Earl coached a women's team from 1995-2006, which included state champion Maria Riquet (Lynch). Earl took ordinary cycling enthusiasts who he saw potential in and helped mold them into contenders on the bicycle racing scene, all while training HIMSELF for his world and regional level events. Earl's coaching resume doesn't stop there. He has also coached and encouraged many junior racers as well. He has recently offered his knowledge on a volunteer basis to teach new riders pace line and group riding skills in the St. Petersburg Bicycle Club. He is very widely known on the state, national and world levels, more so than just about any champion masters level cyclist. Earl Henry has never accepted a single cent in coaching fees throughout the years that he has mentored and coached up and coming champion cyclists. As of 2008 Earl Henry traveled to Australia for the 2008 Track World's winning the 500 Meter TT.
Nomination inspired by Mel Lucas and verified by Earl Henry.
Shelly Allen
Shelly Allen is arguably Florida’s most famous female professional mountain biker. Shelly began racing mountain bikes over two decades ago when York Summerville was promoting mountain bike races. With no other women racing, Shelly raced the men’s groups. When organizers began offering women classes, Shelly dominated. Shelly won multiple state championships sponsored by York Summerville and Showtime Promotions, and at one point, won the Expert Women Florida State Championship Series, sponsored by Goneriding, five years in a row. Shelly Allen was never content on just competing in Florida, however, and as professional, raced nationally. Her hard work paid of in 1998, when Shelly won a World Cup at Conyers, Georgia. Three years later, Shelly won a World Championship at Bromont, Canada.
Over the years, Shelly Allen has readily given her time supporting other female mountain bikers—mentoring several women who went on to win state title’s themselves. Relaxing after instructing an advance mountain bike clinic for women, Shelly chuckled, “I show ‘em my tricks and then they beat me.” However, in all truth, only a handful of women in past twenty years can make that claim.
Shelly resides in St. Petersburg, Florida with her husband, Doug. She has a son, Ryan, and owns a landscaping company, Renoscape. Currently, she’s been mixing it up on the road, racing for Herbalife in the Florida points’ series. She is also a member of the Florida Women’s Cycling Network. Shelly is currently planning to compete in the British Columbia Seven Day Stage Race in Canada June 28 to July 4, 2009.
Nomination by Barbara Shircliffe ( Tampa)
Advocates:
Robert Husky
The West Palm Beach Bicycle Club was founded in 1963 by Bob Husky, who passed away in 2006. The club was disbanded on December 31, 2006. For most of its 43 years, the Club was very active in many aspects of cycling: regular weekly rides, a time trial series, advocacy, social events and touring. Touring included three major events: the Tour of Sebring, the Cross Florida Tour and the Lake Okeechobee Lark. The Tour of Sebring began in 1982, growing out of the September Century program by the League of American Bicyclists [then using the term ‘Wheelmen’] and was attended at its peak by almost 600 cyclists. It was tremendously successful both in popularity and as a “cash cow” for the Club, allowing it to make substantial donations to many worthy causes involving cycling and/or children.
The Cross Florida Tour began in the ‘60s as a stage race across the state, and nationally-known racers came to participate. The route varied, but for many years went from the East Coast to the West. In later years, as it became harder to produce a race due to increasing traffic, the event evolved as a tour. It always included a century, and sometimes went from Okeechobee to Punta Gorda. It was discontinued several years ago, because no one wanted to organize it or even help.
Bob Mohr started the Lake Okeechobee Lark, a one-day 120 mile road ride around the Big O, in 1989, with eight riders and one support vehicle. It grew to over 100 riders and was successful for several years. The Time Trial Series was tremendously successful for quite a while, drawing riders from all over South Florida. Most took place on A1A, with a few longer ones out on State Road 80 near 20 Mile Bend.
Nomination by Linda Leeds and Ruth Husky
Gib Gibson
That guy never gives up!! Gib Gibson, a native of St. Petersburg and an accomplished international touring cyclist, might very well be the ultimate cycling advocate. He and his wife Audrey toured nationally and internationally during the 70's, 80's, and 90's with the League of American Wheelmen, the International Bicycle Touring Society and the British Cyclists Touring Club. Together they completed tours in Canada, England, Holland, Germany, and 17 American states. During these tours, Gib made many cycling friends and provided numerous cyclists with technical assistance on bicycle mechanics and touring gear requirements.
Based on Gib's enthusiastic involvement in cycling, he became the first president of the St. Petersburg Bicycle Club, Inc., and was one of the original organizers of bicycle events in West Central Florida. He began his involvement in 1969, as one of the original members meeting at local cycling shops for group rides. He was elected vice president of the club in 1970 and soon thereafter assumed the position of president. As president, he defined the club’s mission and established by-laws to further the enjoyment of cycling for club members and the public at large through safe and organized cycling events. His efforts in the legal and business aspects of the organization provided the scaffolding that fostered further growth, and the organization has served Tampa Bay area cyclists for nearly 40 years. During his tenure, efforts were made by the cities of St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Gulfport and the FDOT to limit access of bicyclists to public county roadways. Gib used his tenacity and personal relationships with state and local officials to convince government officials to remove the restrictions of "No Bicyclists on the Road" at a time when it was considered acceptable to assign an existing sidewalk as a "Bike Route". This law would have prohibited cyclists from using the adjoining roadway. He and others in the club successfully led challenges to these restrictions, and these roads remain in use by bicyclists today.
It does not stop there! Gib Gibson laid out the original route for the Hilly Hundred ride of Dade City in 1971 and established numerous other local century ride routes in West Central Florida. These organized ride routes are still in use and enjoyed by thousands of Florida cyclists today. Based on his services to the St. Petersburg Bicycle Club, Inc., he was awarded an honorary lifetime membership for his contributions to the club, which numbers over 300 members. As stated by Kimberly Cooper, "Because of polio, Gib has never been an elite cyclist and never been able to race. But his work and other people's work have ensured that road racing, commuter bicycling, and recreational bicycling are possible in Florida." While combating his difficulties with polio, he suffered a severely broken leg. After healing, he could no longer use a regular bicycle. He switched to a handcycle, building himself up from zero mph to 12 mph. He is without question an asset to the cycling community and openly enthusiastic concerning children and new riders.
Nomination inspired by Kimberly Cooper and verified by Thomas Gibson.
Joshua Kuck (02 /06/1985 - 10/21/2007)
At 22 years of age Joshua was The University of South Florida Cycling Team Captain and now deceased as a result of a riding traffic accident in 2007. In 2006 Josh was instrumental in the formation of the USF cycling team. He brought life back to the team after seven years with his efforts and his outgoing and positive attitude. In memory of his contributions and enthusiasm for USF Cycling a scholarship fund was created in his honor. Donations can be made to USACDF - Josh Kuck Memorial Scholarship. The recipients will a be a male and a female student who have worked in some capacity to advocate for the safety of cyclists.
Josh and like-minded cyclists searched for and brought riders together and planned rides, both on the road and off. Joshua Kuck and Co Captain Bradon Crain carried their interest further to establish the collegiate team with projects such as getting school funding, securing sponsorships, making and handling all the paperwork which was required to get the team back on the books as an official NCCA division 1 varsity sport.
Josh served as a team co-captain and was active in the teams training and he was an active racer, which brought unity and a tight-knit team, both on and off the bike. Though diverse, the team shared a unique passion for riding and Joshua will be missed for all time to those that he touched with his enthusiasm and selfless efforts.
Nomination backed by the 2008 University Of South Florida Cycling Team
Kent Hickman
How an off-road trail system is born! Kent Hickman is the founder of The Ridge Riders Mountain Bike Association and Red Trail Racing and a life time resident of Polk County Florida attending elementary and High School in Polk County. He started riding mountain bikes in the early 90's at the Gran Canyon in Brooksville when there were only a few formal riding locations. In the mid 90's Polk County was opening Carter Road Park on the south end of the county. In short time, a handful of local riders started riding at the park and a local woman “Karen” formed an informal group called "The Crew". It wasn't a formal organization, but the start of one. As a member of "The Crew” Kent later went to Georgia on a bike trip and rode some trails maintained by SORBA, which seeded the idea to be more organized. Despite some controversy the Ridge Riders Mountain Bike Association was started and the Club called the Ridge Riders was a hit. There were others like Kent who wanted to get things done. At that time there was shell of a trail that there is today. At first the trial was mostly dirt roads and about 1-1/2 miles of single track. The trail known as Sprinkler Hill was first with additions of Ivy, Puff, Cruddy Buddy, Baby Beast, Beast, Snake Ridge, Sneaky, Lil Humper and the Black Forest. For years the area known as the Fingers was present and some would venture into the area, but it was not an actual trail nor always doable, even by the most skilled. Such technical and demanding trials are a challenge to maintain, but such trails define the Ridge Riders. The trial system continued to develop with the Top of Roller Coaster, Big Mamas, Spector and the Moe. As late as 2008 Modulo Trail has been added and The Green Mile is going to come back. Today the trial system has grown to approximately 10 miles of single track with some of the most technical off road riding in the state of Florida.
Let’s not forget one of the states all time best trails "The Toe". Which would make the best of riders pucker and hold on with a death grip? The Toe also had a very extensive Free Riding park with some very elaborate ramps, dirt jumps and trick areas where regular competitions were held. This trial system is now closed due to urban development, but was diligently maintained by the Ridge Riders. Kent also ran Red Trail Racing for a number of years and since sold the business to Raymond Wells who continues the tradition.
The clubs ability and accomplishments are based a sound formal organization that has been able to pull off such trails as Loyce Hape Park and the TOE along with the new trailhead at Loyce Hape Park. The club was awarded for its efforts as a volunteer organization by the county parks department. The club also overcame two lawsuits that threatened access to the park for MTBING. A quote form Don Wilson, "Because you guys have shown us your dedication to the trail we didn't even consider closing it to MTBing". In the year 2008 the Ridge Riders Mountain Association has a 10 year anniversary and should be proud of the club’s accomplishments as a non-profit organization focused on promoting off-road riding and trail maintenance in central Florida. The club has since been passed on to others, but Kent still displays profound passion to the trail system giving thanks to all who have helped out!!
Nomination by the FBHOF
Renee Blaney
Photograph Pending
Renee Blaney is from Ocala, Florida where she became active in cycling with her husband and daughters. Her enthusism for Mountian Biking progressed from casual rides to moving into competative racing along with her husband and daughters. Concluding her racing activities she gave back to the sport as a member and later the President of the Ocala Mountian Bike Association where she began working with the International Mountain Bicycling Association and the Office of Greenways and Trails to develop an extensive off-road bike trail network. She established a volunteer bike patrol to enhance the safety of the trails and helps coordinate the annual Spring Break Fat Tire Festival, attracting more than 300 riders to the Cross Florida Greenway’s bike trail network.
In April 2008 Governor Charlie Crist recognized Renee Blaney with the Point of Light Award for outstanding volunteerism in honor of Environmental Awareness Month during a Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra reception at the Governor’s Mansion.“Renee’s dedication has improved the Cross Florida Greenway’s natural beauty and usefulness,” said Governor Crist. “She is taking an active role in preserving the trail and making it safer, gaining the respect of Floridians and her mountain biking peers worldwide.”
As president of the Ocala Mountain Bike Association, Renee regularly contributes to the development and maintenance of bike trails on the Cross Florida Greenway. Members of the Ocala Mountain Bike Association volunteers contributed more than 2,800 hours in 2007. Thanks fo Renee’s efforts and dedication, the 115 miles of the Cross Florida Greenway’s mountain bike trails are well maintained and enjoyed by many Florida cyclists and visitors.
Nominaiton by Kurt Leverett
Chip Haynes
Chip Haynes was originally from Ohio and has been a Clearwater resident since 1969 where he lives with his wife, JoAnn. He started of as a graphic designer, and is an avid recreational and practical cyclist. He has dedicated some major portion of his time and energy to furthering the sport of cycling for some 35+ years in Pinellas County and has made a significant difference. He and his wife, JoAnn, currently own 32 bikes and trikes to include a fixed gear road bike with a 35-year old Campy track hub.
Chip began riding with the Saint Petersburg Florida Bike Club in the early 70’s and for a time stretched his legs out while participating in over a dozen Century rides. He helped organize and advertise the first Mount Dora Touring Festivals in central Florida along with assisting in a bicycle dealer’s show in Sunshine Mall in 1973. In 1976 he took on the Crossed America with the BikeCentennial. This may have been what led to the rather odd inclination to build a Kangaroo Bike. Say what – yep, he and a friend turned the left crank 180 degrees even with the other crank – (The Roo was born!)
In more recent times he has ridden a bicycle to work almost every day since 1997 and became a very active cycling enthusiast and activist with over 1200 articles on bicycling and energy issues for The Wire Donkey, a hardcopy only bike newsletter out of Nashville, Tennessee, Mason St. Clair, publisher. Has five stories in “The Bicycle Book- Wit, Wisdom & Wanderings”, Jim Joyce, editor. He is a current working author and in the process of writing “The Practical Cyclist, Bicycling for real people” coming out in the spring of 2009. He created, designed and still maintains the official Pinellas County guidebook to the Pinellas Trail (with over 400,000 guidebooks printed so far). As a further testament to his ambassadorship to bicycling he has given away dozens, if not hundreds of fixed-up old bikes to friends, neighbors and complete strangers to help get more bicycles on the road, including the first official Pinellas County Planning Department staff bicycle that was delivered in 2008.
Nomination inspired by Bill Cotney and written by Kurt Leverett
Watch List:
Amanda Geving
Amanda Geving is 19 years old in 2008 and racing the discipline of BMX Racing. She is a resident of Largo, Florida and an alternate for the 2008 Olympics (the youngest male or female on the USA BMX Olympic Team in history). She has been racing pro since 2005 and now with bike manufacture and championship caliber race team Factory Redman.
By age 14, she had won three World Championships, but the Olympics were not a possibility due to suffering a setback in the 2002 national competition when she fractured her collarbone in two places, cut her liver and bruised her lung. She went on to the BMX championships in Australia and came in fifth in the world for her category.
Amanda has a very impressive amateur resume from winning many ABA, NBL and world championships and titles. Since turning pro Amanda has won the ABA Pro Women’s World Title, the UCI’S Jr. Women Cruiser Title and 3 time runner-up NBL champ. The Florida Cycling Hall of Fame looks forward to checking in on her Olympic Experience and future cycling accomplishments.
Nomination by Kurt Leverett
Ryan Woodall
Ryan Woodall is a Professional XC Mountain Bike Racer who was born and raised in Ocala, Florida where he found his passion for cycling at the age of 13. He soon started racing in the junior class, and went on to win the 1999 Junior State Championship, winning all but one race. In the summer of 2000 his family moved to the country of Haiti where his parents became missionaries. Due to the civil unrest and poor riding conditions he was unable to continue solid training and riding. In 2003 he graduated from high school and moved back to Ocala Florida. Determined to fulfill his dream he started training and moved through the ranks at an incredible rate.
Since 2003 he has won three consecutive Southeast Regional Championships and is the current (2007) defending Pro state champion. In 2004 he was voted the "Most Improved Rider" in the Fall State Championships and has multiple acknowledgments of “Rider of the Year"(FSC). In 2006 he raced semi pro at Sugar Mountain nationals, Sea Otter Classic XC race, 2007 Pro XC "Bump & Grind", 2007 Fontana Dam Jam Pro XC & ST and several more notable finishes.
At the age of 23 and with stacked results, he has a long road of success ahead of him. His goals are high, and he is steady on the rise. He is definitely a force to be reckoned with is actively competing at the national and international level for 2008. The director of the Florida Cycling Hall of Fame would also like to add that Ryan Woodall is one of the most grounded and determined young men he has ever had the pleasure of meeting.
Nomination by Regan Woodall
Harlen Price
Born and raised in North Florida, Harlan Price graduated from the University of Florida where he discovered Florida’s cycling scene. He now lives in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and rides professionally for FT-Independent Fabrication Racing Powered by Lionette's.
In 2006, Price was the overall winner (1st) in National Ultra Endurance (NUE) Series. In 2007, he was second (2nd) overall in the 2007 National Ultra Endurance Series, placing 12th, 2nd, 4th, 2nd, 2nd, 10th and 4th in the respective races. In addition, in January 2007, to escape northern winter weather, Price migrated from Philadelphia to Ocala, Florida for the 12hrs of Razorback; he won the race with a dominating ride. He also won the 2007 Off Road Assault on Mt Mitchell (ORAMM), a 55-mile mostly off road bicycle race that has 13000 feet of accumulated climbing.
Harlan Price seems to have a no end to his cycling achievements in the discipline of Ultra Endurance Cycling. The Hall of Fame will continue to track his accomplishments.
Nomination by: Kurt Leverett
Martin Cox
Martin Cox is an 18 year old semi-pro mountain biker residing in Gainesville, Florida. Martin spends most of his time riding and working part time at The Bike Route in Gainesville, Florida. He is also enrolled as a senior at Sante Fe high school where he has maintained a 3.5 grade point average or higher and also attends collegiate classes at Sante Fe Community College. He has had a very successful 2007 season as a mountain biker and is why I have nominated him as Junior Cyclist of the year.
Martin started racing mountain bikes in 2000. He had a lot of success at an early age including three back to back first place overall finishes in the Florida State races as a junior. Only two years later he quickly moved up to the senior expert class where he finished 1st overall in the South Eastern Regional Classic series for 2007 at the age of 17. He followed this with a 4th place overall finish in the very competitive senior expert/semi-pro/pro class for the Florida State Championship (FSC) series in 2007. In addition to this he won his first senior expert/semi-pro/pro race at Reddick this year making him the youngest rider to win a semi-pro/pro race in the FSC.
Martin has made many plans to continue to succeed in the coming years. He is now racing under a pro license, and he has set high goals for the coming years. Some of these goals include reaching the professional level and winning a National Championship race. Martin has only begun to reach his potential. His desire to succeed, ongoing passion for the sport and discipline set him apart from others his age. For 2008 he plans on racing much of the SERC in addition to racing many of the National caliber races including the National Championships in Mount Snow, VT. As of the end of 2008 he placed 4th over all in the Florida Championship Fall Series and moving to the pro ranks for 2009.
Nomination by Drew Edsall and Kurt Leverett
Steve Rusnak
At only the 16 years of age, Steve Rusnak has already made his mark in the sport. In just two short years, Steve has raced almost 60 times - and has finished on the podium an astounding 41 of those races. Overall, he has won 21 races, placed 2nd in 11 races, and 3rd in 9 races (and has even placed well in several Men's Category 4 road races) . Since July 2007, Steve has finished in the top three in 13 of the 14 events he raced (nine wins, three second place, one third place.) He has won road races, criteriums, time trials and cyclocross races (garnering several state championship jerseys along the way). Last year, Steve achieved the number one ranking nationally by the United States Cycling Federation for his age group for criterium races, based on total points. During 2008 Steve was rather dominant in the junior races generally finishing 1st or 2nd in any event he entered. He is one of the best Time Trailest in Florida of any age.
His fierce determination , dedication to the sport and incredible cycling gifts were never more evident than in the 2008 Florida State Cyclocross Championship race. Unable to finish the prior week's cyclocross race due to a broken chain, Steve arrived ready to prove that he could race cyclocross as successfully as he has the road events. Pitted against other strong juniors who came from all over Florida and the entire field of Category 4 Men (both races were run concurrently), Steve quickly settled into a blistering pace - which eventually demolished virtually the entire field of Category 4 men and the other junior racers. Ultimately Steve finished in front of all of the racers but one of the Category 4 men (and was bested by only a few seconds), quietly but firmly confirming once again that he is a force to be reckoned with on the state and national cycling scene.
What really makes Steve stand out, however, is his maturity and poise. As important as training is, he will still drop back during a training ride to stay with a cyclist who has fallen off the pace and needs a good wheel.
In short, Steve Rusnak is well on his way to joining the ranks of Sinibaldi, Howard, Hampsten, LeMond, Hincapie, Armstrong and others as a national-class American cyclist, and is a great candidate for Florida Junior Cyclist of the Year.
Nomination by John A. Sinibaldi
Pending Nominations – the following names/nominations have been identified/submitted and are pending review along with the need for further research (to determine if they qualify), verification and editing. Should you have any additional information or wish to expand on any of these nominations I can be contacted at info@buildingchampioncyclistsfl.net
Should you wish to assist with this task feel free to do so, but advise this program of your efforts so that the research is not being duplicated.
Nathan Rogut
Nathan is the son of EJ Rogut who is also a mention in the Florida Bicycling Hall of Fame. Nathan grew up in Tampa, Florida and now living in Texas. He began racing in 1989 as a Junior Cyclists and won virtually every major race held at one time or other to include winning the Junior State Championship Road and Track races.
Nathan Rogut began racing at the national level and focused his efforts on Criteriums and Track racing. Based on his racing accomplishments, that began in Florida, he was placed on the National Junior Team from 1997 to 2001. He participated in 4 UCI World Cups and was ranked tenth in 1999 in the Kilo in the world cup rankings. In 1999 he raced in the EDS Elite National Track Cycling Championships (2nd) in Olympic Sprint Kilometer - at National Collegiate Track Cycling Championships (1st) in Kilometer Time Trial; (2nd) Match Sprint (3rd) Team Pursuit (4th) at World Cup #5 (4th) in Olympic Sprint - at EDS World Cup of Cycling EDS Track Cup #2 (1st) Olympic Sprint Kilometer. In 2001 he raced the Espoirs National Road Championships in the Criterium - at U.S. Track National Championships (3rd) in the Kilometer Time Trail and 4th in the Team Pursuit and 4th in the Olympic Sprint. He won the AVC Track Cup #3 and has participated in numerous other national level races with more than 150 wins.
Nathan is now living in Texas and racing at the Pro Level 1-2 with Metro Volkswagen Cycling with impressivew 2007 results at the Texas State Criterium Championships, Texas State Team Time Trail Championships, Mississippi Grand Prix nad at the Rocky MT Omnium. Nathan has been racing for 18 years and list his home town as Tampa, Florida. In addition to racing he is the motivation behind the Foundation for the Cultivation of Sport Cycling Team (FCS) , which is a team that has a pro contingent that tours the country, competing against teams with million-dollar budgets. FCS Cycling has made a major showings and developed one of the top young cycling teams in the nation.
Nomination by FBHOF with the assistance of Nathan Rogut
Pending Research:
Joe Avalos (Post mortem 1993)
Photograph pending
A long time cycling advocate that was instrumental in the development of the USA Cycling Race Official Manual. Joe and others was visionary official who greatly affected the direction of the officiating program as a teacher and a mentor.
In the 1980’ Joe Avalos’s was a founder of the Coconut Grove Bicycle Racing Club in Miami, Florida and the founder and promoter of the Great Coconut Grove Bicycle Race that featured male and female cycling professionals worldwide.
Nominations Continue
John Sinibaldi
Honorary Nomination - as he is already in the U.S. Bicycling Hall of Fame.
John Sinibaldi–John "The Legend" Sinibaldi, a resident of Pinellas County, Florida, passed away in his sleep on January 10, 2006 at the age of 92, after a short battle with lung cancer. Fortunately he was not in any pain and passed peacefully, with his family by his side.
John's legacy as a cyclist will not soon be forgotten, few if any cyclists will ever achieve what he did. His cycling career spanned an amazing 77 years, all if it at the top of the national amateur picture. Eighteen-time national champion, two-time Olympian in 1932 and 1936, and finally inducted into the United States Bicycling Hall of Fame in 1997. John’s first victory at a national level race came in 1928; he won his last national championship in 2006 at the USA Cycling Masters National Road Championships. A conservative estimate puts his lifetime mileage at well over a half-million miles.
However, his cycling legacy extends far beyond his own accomplishments. John spent the better part of the past 30 years promoting cycling as a sport, encouraging participation amongst new cyclist, and helping many cyclists realize their potential. For over seven decades John was an informal ambassador for the sport, he always rejoiced when someone new arrived at a group ride for the first time.
Jeanne Golay
Photograph pending
Honorary Nomination - as she is already in the U.S. Bicycling Hall of Fame.
Jeanne Golay – a 1992 and 1996 Olympian and a 2008 inductee into the United States Cycling Hall of Fame. She is a five-time world champion and nine-time national champion racing successfully on the road, in time trials and on the track during the 1980’s and 90’s. In 1992 she won the road race, time trial and the team time trial event and as of 2008she was the last woman to win three national championship titles. USA Cycling also awarded her with the Stenner Scholarships while she attended the University of Florida. At the 1992 Barcelona, Spain Olympics she participated in the Individual Road Race finishing 6th place. At 1996 Atlanta Olympics she participated in the Individual Time Trial placing16th; Points Race17th and Individual Road Race, 29th.
Jeanne trained in Florida with other Olympic cyclists such as Carl Sundquist, Andy Weaver and Chris Carmichael by using the Florida head winds as a training tool. From 1988 to 1996 she won over thirty national and international races and in 1992 won the United States Cycling Federation Athlete of the Year Award. She was the 1992 Olympics taking 6th in the women's road race. Jeanne's continued success led to future wins and a lead role with the dominant Saturn Professional Women's Road Team.
She is currently listed as residing in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. She is being inducted into the Florida Cycling Hall of Fame due to residency in Florida while attending a state college and training in the State of Florida.
Nomination by FBHOF
Carl Sundquist
Photograph pending
Honorary Nomination - as a past Olympian
Carl Sundquist is a four time National Champion, Pan Am Gold Medalist (Team Pursuit), World Silver Medalist (Team Pursuit), six time National Team Pursuit Champion, former World Speed Record holder and two time Olympian. Carl was a Central Florida resident while training for the Olympics and continued to live in the State after his cycling retirement. He participated in the 1988 Seoul, South Korea Olympics in the 4000 meter Team Pursuit and in the1992 Barcelona, Spain Olympics in the 4000 meter Individual Pursuit placing 12th.
Carl Sundquist was teamed with Vande Velde, Mariano Friedick, Zach Conrad and Adam Laurent, to win the gold medal at the 1995 Pan Am Games in a record time. He is a former world sprint record holder in a Moby long wheelbase bicycle reaching 59.10 mph and in a Lightning X2 Former "low-altitude” reaching 64.19 mph.
During the time of Carl Sundquist championship time trials were trademarks of Florida bicycle racing where many riders trained in Florida's well-known windy conditions. Olympic cyclists such as Carl Sundquist, Jeanne Golay, Andy Weaver and Chris Carmichael lived and trained in Florida and gained toughness while hammering into the wind. Carl raced for such teams as Team Lycra, Boston Mountain Cyclist, and BREW bicycles built Track frames for years for Olympian Carl Sundquist.
Nomination by FBHOF
Earl Henry
Earl's Henry is a Florida resident from Pinellas Park (Pinellas County), Florida and his cycling particulars are extensive. He's began racing as a teenager and has continued to do so for at least 50 years. Earl holds many state, national and international racing titles and was a world record holder.
Notably, in 2004 at the European Nationals Track Championship in Manchester England, Earl competed in the 500meter time trial for age group 60-64 year olds when Victor Copeland took Trinidad's, Earl Henry's world record set in 2002. At the 2008 European Nationals Track Championship in Manchester England, Men’s Track Sprint age 65–69 Earl Henry of Trinidad & Tobago won the Gold medal in 13.673 seconds. He won Silver against Victor Copeland at track nationals in the 500-meter. Victor Copeland is one of his oldest and most fierce competitors. Earl is a seven time world champion in the Masters 500 meter and match sprint categories. He has long-standing and very impressive results racing at the national level at the USA Cycling Masters Track National Championships in the 200 meter and 500 meter disciplines.
What could be more important than leaving a legacy in the world of cycling and with that in mind, the thing that the I can confidently say about Earl is that locally, Earl has helped many people on the local racing scene including recent state champion female cyclist, Lori Castellano by offering his unlimited words of racing wisdom. Earl frequently stood on the sidelines while Lori was racing to cheer her on and to yell instructions, as he has for many of us in years past. Earl Henry is a tireless and altruistic one-man cheering section. He has volunteered as a mentor to many female cyclists who went on to win world championships, including former Olympian Lucy Tyler. Earl coached a women's team from 1995-2006, which included state champion Maria Riquet (Lynch). Earl took ordinary cycling enthusiasts who he saw potential in and helped mold them into contenders on the bicycle racing scene, all while training HIMSELF for his world and regional level events. Earl's coaching resume doesn't stop there. He has also coached and encouraged many junior racers as well. He has recently offered his knowledge on a volunteer basis to teach new riders pace line and group riding skills in the St. Petersburg Bicycle Club. He is very widely known on the state, national and world levels, more so than just about any champion masters level cyclist. Earl Henry has never accepted a single cent in coaching fees throughout the years that he has mentored and coached up and coming champion cyclists. As of 2008 Earl Henry traveled to Australia for the 2008 Track World's winning the 500 Meter TT.
Nomination inspired by Mel Lucas and verified by Earl Henry.
Shelly Allen
Shelly Allen is arguably Florida’s most famous female professional mountain biker. Shelly began racing mountain bikes over two decades ago when York Summerville was promoting mountain bike races. With no other women racing, Shelly raced the men’s groups. When organizers began offering women classes, Shelly dominated. Shelly won multiple state championships sponsored by York Summerville and Showtime Promotions, and at one point, won the Expert Women Florida State Championship Series, sponsored by Goneriding, five years in a row. Shelly Allen was never content on just competing in Florida, however, and as professional, raced nationally. Her hard work paid of in 1998, when Shelly won a World Cup at Conyers, Georgia. Three years later, Shelly won a World Championship at Bromont, Canada.
Over the years, Shelly Allen has readily given her time supporting other female mountain bikers—mentoring several women who went on to win state title’s themselves. Relaxing after instructing an advance mountain bike clinic for women, Shelly chuckled, “I show ‘em my tricks and then they beat me.” However, in all truth, only a handful of women in past twenty years can make that claim.
Shelly resides in St. Petersburg, Florida with her husband, Doug. She has a son, Ryan, and owns a landscaping company, Renoscape. Currently, she’s been mixing it up on the road, racing for Herbalife in the Florida points’ series. She is also a member of the Florida Women’s Cycling Network. Shelly is currently planning to compete in the British Columbia Seven Day Stage Race in Canada June 28 to July 4, 2009.
Nomination by Barbara Shircliffe ( Tampa)
Advocates:
Robert Husky
The West Palm Beach Bicycle Club was founded in 1963 by Bob Husky, who passed away in 2006. The club was disbanded on December 31, 2006. For most of its 43 years, the Club was very active in many aspects of cycling: regular weekly rides, a time trial series, advocacy, social events and touring. Touring included three major events: the Tour of Sebring, the Cross Florida Tour and the Lake Okeechobee Lark. The Tour of Sebring began in 1982, growing out of the September Century program by the League of American Bicyclists [then using the term ‘Wheelmen’] and was attended at its peak by almost 600 cyclists. It was tremendously successful both in popularity and as a “cash cow” for the Club, allowing it to make substantial donations to many worthy causes involving cycling and/or children.
The Cross Florida Tour began in the ‘60s as a stage race across the state, and nationally-known racers came to participate. The route varied, but for many years went from the East Coast to the West. In later years, as it became harder to produce a race due to increasing traffic, the event evolved as a tour. It always included a century, and sometimes went from Okeechobee to Punta Gorda. It was discontinued several years ago, because no one wanted to organize it or even help.
Bob Mohr started the Lake Okeechobee Lark, a one-day 120 mile road ride around the Big O, in 1989, with eight riders and one support vehicle. It grew to over 100 riders and was successful for several years. The Time Trial Series was tremendously successful for quite a while, drawing riders from all over South Florida. Most took place on A1A, with a few longer ones out on State Road 80 near 20 Mile Bend.
Nomination by Linda Leeds and Ruth Husky
Gib Gibson
That guy never gives up!! Gib Gibson, a native of St. Petersburg and an accomplished international touring cyclist, might very well be the ultimate cycling advocate. He and his wife Audrey toured nationally and internationally during the 70's, 80's, and 90's with the League of American Wheelmen, the International Bicycle Touring Society and the British Cyclists Touring Club. Together they completed tours in Canada, England, Holland, Germany, and 17 American states. During these tours, Gib made many cycling friends and provided numerous cyclists with technical assistance on bicycle mechanics and touring gear requirements.
Based on Gib's enthusiastic involvement in cycling, he became the first president of the St. Petersburg Bicycle Club, Inc., and was one of the original organizers of bicycle events in West Central Florida. He began his involvement in 1969, as one of the original members meeting at local cycling shops for group rides. He was elected vice president of the club in 1970 and soon thereafter assumed the position of president. As president, he defined the club’s mission and established by-laws to further the enjoyment of cycling for club members and the public at large through safe and organized cycling events. His efforts in the legal and business aspects of the organization provided the scaffolding that fostered further growth, and the organization has served Tampa Bay area cyclists for nearly 40 years. During his tenure, efforts were made by the cities of St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Gulfport and the FDOT to limit access of bicyclists to public county roadways. Gib used his tenacity and personal relationships with state and local officials to convince government officials to remove the restrictions of "No Bicyclists on the Road" at a time when it was considered acceptable to assign an existing sidewalk as a "Bike Route". This law would have prohibited cyclists from using the adjoining roadway. He and others in the club successfully led challenges to these restrictions, and these roads remain in use by bicyclists today.
It does not stop there! Gib Gibson laid out the original route for the Hilly Hundred ride of Dade City in 1971 and established numerous other local century ride routes in West Central Florida. These organized ride routes are still in use and enjoyed by thousands of Florida cyclists today. Based on his services to the St. Petersburg Bicycle Club, Inc., he was awarded an honorary lifetime membership for his contributions to the club, which numbers over 300 members. As stated by Kimberly Cooper, "Because of polio, Gib has never been an elite cyclist and never been able to race. But his work and other people's work have ensured that road racing, commuter bicycling, and recreational bicycling are possible in Florida." While combating his difficulties with polio, he suffered a severely broken leg. After healing, he could no longer use a regular bicycle. He switched to a handcycle, building himself up from zero mph to 12 mph. He is without question an asset to the cycling community and openly enthusiastic concerning children and new riders.
Nomination inspired by Kimberly Cooper and verified by Thomas Gibson.
Joshua Kuck (02 /06/1985 - 10/21/2007)
At 22 years of age Joshua was The University of South Florida Cycling Team Captain and now deceased as a result of a riding traffic accident in 2007. In 2006 Josh was instrumental in the formation of the USF cycling team. He brought life back to the team after seven years with his efforts and his outgoing and positive attitude. In memory of his contributions and enthusiasm for USF Cycling a scholarship fund was created in his honor. Donations can be made to USACDF - Josh Kuck Memorial Scholarship. The recipients will a be a male and a female student who have worked in some capacity to advocate for the safety of cyclists.
Josh and like-minded cyclists searched for and brought riders together and planned rides, both on the road and off. Joshua Kuck and Co Captain Bradon Crain carried their interest further to establish the collegiate team with projects such as getting school funding, securing sponsorships, making and handling all the paperwork which was required to get the team back on the books as an official NCCA division 1 varsity sport.
Josh served as a team co-captain and was active in the teams training and he was an active racer, which brought unity and a tight-knit team, both on and off the bike. Though diverse, the team shared a unique passion for riding and Joshua will be missed for all time to those that he touched with his enthusiasm and selfless efforts.
Nomination backed by the 2008 University Of South Florida Cycling Team
Kent Hickman
How an off-road trail system is born! Kent Hickman is the founder of The Ridge Riders Mountain Bike Association and Red Trail Racing and a life time resident of Polk County Florida attending elementary and High School in Polk County. He started riding mountain bikes in the early 90's at the Gran Canyon in Brooksville when there were only a few formal riding locations. In the mid 90's Polk County was opening Carter Road Park on the south end of the county. In short time, a handful of local riders started riding at the park and a local woman “Karen” formed an informal group called "The Crew". It wasn't a formal organization, but the start of one. As a member of "The Crew” Kent later went to Georgia on a bike trip and rode some trails maintained by SORBA, which seeded the idea to be more organized. Despite some controversy the Ridge Riders Mountain Bike Association was started and the Club called the Ridge Riders was a hit. There were others like Kent who wanted to get things done. At that time there was shell of a trail that there is today. At first the trial was mostly dirt roads and about 1-1/2 miles of single track. The trail known as Sprinkler Hill was first with additions of Ivy, Puff, Cruddy Buddy, Baby Beast, Beast, Snake Ridge, Sneaky, Lil Humper and the Black Forest. For years the area known as the Fingers was present and some would venture into the area, but it was not an actual trail nor always doable, even by the most skilled. Such technical and demanding trials are a challenge to maintain, but such trails define the Ridge Riders. The trial system continued to develop with the Top of Roller Coaster, Big Mamas, Spector and the Moe. As late as 2008 Modulo Trail has been added and The Green Mile is going to come back. Today the trial system has grown to approximately 10 miles of single track with some of the most technical off road riding in the state of Florida.
Let’s not forget one of the states all time best trails "The Toe". Which would make the best of riders pucker and hold on with a death grip? The Toe also had a very extensive Free Riding park with some very elaborate ramps, dirt jumps and trick areas where regular competitions were held. This trial system is now closed due to urban development, but was diligently maintained by the Ridge Riders. Kent also ran Red Trail Racing for a number of years and since sold the business to Raymond Wells who continues the tradition.
The clubs ability and accomplishments are based a sound formal organization that has been able to pull off such trails as Loyce Hape Park and the TOE along with the new trailhead at Loyce Hape Park. The club was awarded for its efforts as a volunteer organization by the county parks department. The club also overcame two lawsuits that threatened access to the park for MTBING. A quote form Don Wilson, "Because you guys have shown us your dedication to the trail we didn't even consider closing it to MTBing". In the year 2008 the Ridge Riders Mountain Association has a 10 year anniversary and should be proud of the club’s accomplishments as a non-profit organization focused on promoting off-road riding and trail maintenance in central Florida. The club has since been passed on to others, but Kent still displays profound passion to the trail system giving thanks to all who have helped out!!
Nomination by the FBHOF
Renee Blaney
Photograph Pending
Renee Blaney is from Ocala, Florida where she became active in cycling with her husband and daughters. Her enthusism for Mountian Biking progressed from casual rides to moving into competative racing along with her husband and daughters. Concluding her racing activities she gave back to the sport as a member and later the President of the Ocala Mountian Bike Association where she began working with the International Mountain Bicycling Association and the Office of Greenways and Trails to develop an extensive off-road bike trail network. She established a volunteer bike patrol to enhance the safety of the trails and helps coordinate the annual Spring Break Fat Tire Festival, attracting more than 300 riders to the Cross Florida Greenway’s bike trail network.
In April 2008 Governor Charlie Crist recognized Renee Blaney with the Point of Light Award for outstanding volunteerism in honor of Environmental Awareness Month during a Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra reception at the Governor’s Mansion.“Renee’s dedication has improved the Cross Florida Greenway’s natural beauty and usefulness,” said Governor Crist. “She is taking an active role in preserving the trail and making it safer, gaining the respect of Floridians and her mountain biking peers worldwide.”
As president of the Ocala Mountain Bike Association, Renee regularly contributes to the development and maintenance of bike trails on the Cross Florida Greenway. Members of the Ocala Mountain Bike Association volunteers contributed more than 2,800 hours in 2007. Thanks fo Renee’s efforts and dedication, the 115 miles of the Cross Florida Greenway’s mountain bike trails are well maintained and enjoyed by many Florida cyclists and visitors.
Nominaiton by Kurt Leverett
Chip Haynes
Chip Haynes was originally from Ohio and has been a Clearwater resident since 1969 where he lives with his wife, JoAnn. He started of as a graphic designer, and is an avid recreational and practical cyclist. He has dedicated some major portion of his time and energy to furthering the sport of cycling for some 35+ years in Pinellas County and has made a significant difference. He and his wife, JoAnn, currently own 32 bikes and trikes to include a fixed gear road bike with a 35-year old Campy track hub.
Chip began riding with the Saint Petersburg Florida Bike Club in the early 70’s and for a time stretched his legs out while participating in over a dozen Century rides. He helped organize and advertise the first Mount Dora Touring Festivals in central Florida along with assisting in a bicycle dealer’s show in Sunshine Mall in 1973. In 1976 he took on the Crossed America with the BikeCentennial. This may have been what led to the rather odd inclination to build a Kangaroo Bike. Say what – yep, he and a friend turned the left crank 180 degrees even with the other crank – (The Roo was born!)
In more recent times he has ridden a bicycle to work almost every day since 1997 and became a very active cycling enthusiast and activist with over 1200 articles on bicycling and energy issues for The Wire Donkey, a hardcopy only bike newsletter out of Nashville, Tennessee, Mason St. Clair, publisher. Has five stories in “The Bicycle Book- Wit, Wisdom & Wanderings”, Jim Joyce, editor. He is a current working author and in the process of writing “The Practical Cyclist, Bicycling for real people” coming out in the spring of 2009. He created, designed and still maintains the official Pinellas County guidebook to the Pinellas Trail (with over 400,000 guidebooks printed so far). As a further testament to his ambassadorship to bicycling he has given away dozens, if not hundreds of fixed-up old bikes to friends, neighbors and complete strangers to help get more bicycles on the road, including the first official Pinellas County Planning Department staff bicycle that was delivered in 2008.
Nomination inspired by Bill Cotney and written by Kurt Leverett
Watch List:
Amanda Geving
Amanda Geving is 19 years old in 2008 and racing the discipline of BMX Racing. She is a resident of Largo, Florida and an alternate for the 2008 Olympics (the youngest male or female on the USA BMX Olympic Team in history). She has been racing pro since 2005 and now with bike manufacture and championship caliber race team Factory Redman.
By age 14, she had won three World Championships, but the Olympics were not a possibility due to suffering a setback in the 2002 national competition when she fractured her collarbone in two places, cut her liver and bruised her lung. She went on to the BMX championships in Australia and came in fifth in the world for her category.
Amanda has a very impressive amateur resume from winning many ABA, NBL and world championships and titles. Since turning pro Amanda has won the ABA Pro Women’s World Title, the UCI’S Jr. Women Cruiser Title and 3 time runner-up NBL champ. The Florida Cycling Hall of Fame looks forward to checking in on her Olympic Experience and future cycling accomplishments.
Nomination by Kurt Leverett
Ryan Woodall
Ryan Woodall is a Professional XC Mountain Bike Racer who was born and raised in Ocala, Florida where he found his passion for cycling at the age of 13. He soon started racing in the junior class, and went on to win the 1999 Junior State Championship, winning all but one race. In the summer of 2000 his family moved to the country of Haiti where his parents became missionaries. Due to the civil unrest and poor riding conditions he was unable to continue solid training and riding. In 2003 he graduated from high school and moved back to Ocala Florida. Determined to fulfill his dream he started training and moved through the ranks at an incredible rate.
Since 2003 he has won three consecutive Southeast Regional Championships and is the current (2007) defending Pro state champion. In 2004 he was voted the "Most Improved Rider" in the Fall State Championships and has multiple acknowledgments of “Rider of the Year"(FSC). In 2006 he raced semi pro at Sugar Mountain nationals, Sea Otter Classic XC race, 2007 Pro XC "Bump & Grind", 2007 Fontana Dam Jam Pro XC & ST and several more notable finishes.
At the age of 23 and with stacked results, he has a long road of success ahead of him. His goals are high, and he is steady on the rise. He is definitely a force to be reckoned with is actively competing at the national and international level for 2008. The director of the Florida Cycling Hall of Fame would also like to add that Ryan Woodall is one of the most grounded and determined young men he has ever had the pleasure of meeting.
Nomination by Regan Woodall
Harlen Price
Born and raised in North Florida, Harlan Price graduated from the University of Florida where he discovered Florida’s cycling scene. He now lives in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and rides professionally for FT-Independent Fabrication Racing Powered by Lionette's.
In 2006, Price was the overall winner (1st) in National Ultra Endurance (NUE) Series. In 2007, he was second (2nd) overall in the 2007 National Ultra Endurance Series, placing 12th, 2nd, 4th, 2nd, 2nd, 10th and 4th in the respective races. In addition, in January 2007, to escape northern winter weather, Price migrated from Philadelphia to Ocala, Florida for the 12hrs of Razorback; he won the race with a dominating ride. He also won the 2007 Off Road Assault on Mt Mitchell (ORAMM), a 55-mile mostly off road bicycle race that has 13000 feet of accumulated climbing.
Harlan Price seems to have a no end to his cycling achievements in the discipline of Ultra Endurance Cycling. The Hall of Fame will continue to track his accomplishments.
Nomination by: Kurt Leverett
Martin Cox
Martin Cox is an 18 year old semi-pro mountain biker residing in Gainesville, Florida. Martin spends most of his time riding and working part time at The Bike Route in Gainesville, Florida. He is also enrolled as a senior at Sante Fe high school where he has maintained a 3.5 grade point average or higher and also attends collegiate classes at Sante Fe Community College. He has had a very successful 2007 season as a mountain biker and is why I have nominated him as Junior Cyclist of the year.
Martin started racing mountain bikes in 2000. He had a lot of success at an early age including three back to back first place overall finishes in the Florida State races as a junior. Only two years later he quickly moved up to the senior expert class where he finished 1st overall in the South Eastern Regional Classic series for 2007 at the age of 17. He followed this with a 4th place overall finish in the very competitive senior expert/semi-pro/pro class for the Florida State Championship (FSC) series in 2007. In addition to this he won his first senior expert/semi-pro/pro race at Reddick this year making him the youngest rider to win a semi-pro/pro race in the FSC.
Martin has made many plans to continue to succeed in the coming years. He is now racing under a pro license, and he has set high goals for the coming years. Some of these goals include reaching the professional level and winning a National Championship race. Martin has only begun to reach his potential. His desire to succeed, ongoing passion for the sport and discipline set him apart from others his age. For 2008 he plans on racing much of the SERC in addition to racing many of the National caliber races including the National Championships in Mount Snow, VT. As of the end of 2008 he placed 4th over all in the Florida Championship Fall Series and moving to the pro ranks for 2009.
Nomination by Drew Edsall and Kurt Leverett
Steve Rusnak
At only the 16 years of age, Steve Rusnak has already made his mark in the sport. In just two short years, Steve has raced almost 60 times - and has finished on the podium an astounding 41 of those races. Overall, he has won 21 races, placed 2nd in 11 races, and 3rd in 9 races (and has even placed well in several Men's Category 4 road races) . Since July 2007, Steve has finished in the top three in 13 of the 14 events he raced (nine wins, three second place, one third place.) He has won road races, criteriums, time trials and cyclocross races (garnering several state championship jerseys along the way). Last year, Steve achieved the number one ranking nationally by the United States Cycling Federation for his age group for criterium races, based on total points. During 2008 Steve was rather dominant in the junior races generally finishing 1st or 2nd in any event he entered. He is one of the best Time Trailest in Florida of any age.
His fierce determination , dedication to the sport and incredible cycling gifts were never more evident than in the 2008 Florida State Cyclocross Championship race. Unable to finish the prior week's cyclocross race due to a broken chain, Steve arrived ready to prove that he could race cyclocross as successfully as he has the road events. Pitted against other strong juniors who came from all over Florida and the entire field of Category 4 Men (both races were run concurrently), Steve quickly settled into a blistering pace - which eventually demolished virtually the entire field of Category 4 men and the other junior racers. Ultimately Steve finished in front of all of the racers but one of the Category 4 men (and was bested by only a few seconds), quietly but firmly confirming once again that he is a force to be reckoned with on the state and national cycling scene.
What really makes Steve stand out, however, is his maturity and poise. As important as training is, he will still drop back during a training ride to stay with a cyclist who has fallen off the pace and needs a good wheel.
In short, Steve Rusnak is well on his way to joining the ranks of Sinibaldi, Howard, Hampsten, LeMond, Hincapie, Armstrong and others as a national-class American cyclist, and is a great candidate for Florida Junior Cyclist of the Year.
Nomination by John A. Sinibaldi
Pending Nominations – the following names/nominations have been identified/submitted and are pending review along with the need for further research (to determine if they qualify), verification and editing. Should you have any additional information or wish to expand on any of these nominations I can be contacted at info@buildingchampioncyclistsfl.net
Should you wish to assist with this task feel free to do so, but advise this program of your efforts so that the research is not being duplicated.
Nathan Rogut
Nathan is the son of EJ Rogut who is also a mention in the Florida Bicycling Hall of Fame. Nathan grew up in Tampa, Florida and now living in Texas. He began racing in 1989 as a Junior Cyclists and won virtually every major race held at one time or other to include winning the Junior State Championship Road and Track races.
Nathan Rogut began racing at the national level and focused his efforts on Criteriums and Track racing. Based on his racing accomplishments, that began in Florida, he was placed on the National Junior Team from 1997 to 2001. He participated in 4 UCI World Cups and was ranked tenth in 1999 in the Kilo in the world cup rankings. In 1999 he raced in the EDS Elite National Track Cycling Championships (2nd) in Olympic Sprint Kilometer - at National Collegiate Track Cycling Championships (1st) in Kilometer Time Trial; (2nd) Match Sprint (3rd) Team Pursuit (4th) at World Cup #5 (4th) in Olympic Sprint - at EDS World Cup of Cycling EDS Track Cup #2 (1st) Olympic Sprint Kilometer. In 2001 he raced the Espoirs National Road Championships in the Criterium - at U.S. Track National Championships (3rd) in the Kilometer Time Trail and 4th in the Team Pursuit and 4th in the Olympic Sprint. He won the AVC Track Cup #3 and has participated in numerous other national level races with more than 150 wins.
Nathan is now living in Texas and racing at the Pro Level 1-2 with Metro Volkswagen Cycling with impressivew 2007 results at the Texas State Criterium Championships, Texas State Team Time Trail Championships, Mississippi Grand Prix nad at the Rocky MT Omnium. Nathan has been racing for 18 years and list his home town as Tampa, Florida. In addition to racing he is the motivation behind the Foundation for the Cultivation of Sport Cycling Team (FCS) , which is a team that has a pro contingent that tours the country, competing against teams with million-dollar budgets. FCS Cycling has made a major showings and developed one of the top young cycling teams in the nation.
Nomination by FBHOF with the assistance of Nathan Rogut
Pending Research:
Joe Avalos (Post mortem 1993)
Photograph pending
A long time cycling advocate that was instrumental in the development of the USA Cycling Race Official Manual. Joe and others was visionary official who greatly affected the direction of the officiating program as a teacher and a mentor.
In the 1980’ Joe Avalos’s was a founder of the Coconut Grove Bicycle Racing Club in Miami, Florida and the founder and promoter of the Great Coconut Grove Bicycle Race that featured male and female cycling professionals worldwide.
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