Here is another great upcoming race to check out. Megan Baab Memorial Road Race takes place on January 18th, 2014. Megan Baab was an incredibly talented young woman and avid cyclist who was tragically killed in a head-on collision while on a training ride. She was a life-long riding enthusiast and was attending college on a cycling scholarship. Her spirit lives on in so many ways – and because she was so devoted to cycling, this ride is one of them. Read more to learn about this great event, and about the great things they have been able to do with the race funds. Get ready for a challenging ride for a good cause.
Why join Megan Baab Memorial Road Race?
The Megan Baab Memorial Road Race is a perfect first race of the year. It has kicked off the USAC road season no for about 10 years. It’s a tough race, but one where you can judge your winter training.
Cyclists enjoying the roads at the Megan Baab Memorial Race
How long has your ride been around?
The race started when another club Quannah had a mass start event somewhere around 2002 or 2003 Team Bicycles Inc took it over when that club folded and has been promoting a USAC race there at the beginning of the season every year. The race has been held in 60 degree weather and one year it didn’t break freezing …
What was the motivation behind starting the ride and who benefits from it?
The Race started as the TBi classic … but when Megan Baab, who was also a team member, was killed by a car, TBi decided to name this race, always one of her favorites, in her honor. Some of the proceeds of this race go toward her memorial scholarship fund, the Candle in the Wind – Megan Baab Scholarship Fund.
Racing for a good cause!
How have they been able to utilize funds in the past?
Over the past two years, 6 Texas racers have received scholarships for their college education. More than $12,000 so far.
Logistically can you give us an idea of how many volunteers, finances and planning it takes to put on this event?
The Chamber of Commerce of Copperas Cove provides us some volunteers and the team does the rest. So there are about 25 or so people working on this event.
Do you have a map of the start facility showing registration, parking, all toilets, water/snacks, start line?
Convenient stops along the way for the Megan Baab Memorial Race
What is the most rewarding experience of hosting this event?
Starting the season and, frankly, honoring a wonderful young lady’s memory.
What is the average number of participants?
We get about 300 racers.
Cyclists are ready at the Megan Baab Memorial Race
What can folks do to support you and your mission?
If they want to try out racing … buy a one day and race. If not, check out BikeReg and contribute to her scholarship fund.
Do you ride, and if so, what kind of bicycle do you have?
I still race at least one race a year. I own a Cinelli VBO equipped with Campy EPS and Zipp 202 wheels and I own “Rhapsody in Blue” which is a Moots RSL with Campy SuperRecord and Zipp 101 wheels.
Anything else you’d like to tell folks about this ride???
This is a real – but low key – USAC race. It is just a fun time for a true test of training.
CLICK HERE – for more information about this race.
