Jun 19, 09 - Dirt Spanker Classic at Mont Du Lac in Duluth, MN, on Jun 14, 09: It was a tough course (lots of climbing and descending) and a very hot day (up to 35C) but our Black Sheep racers spanked some dirt and the competition.
Matt Del Nin - 1st in age group, 2:03 ahead of 2nd. - 6th overall in Male Competitive (Category 2), 4:03 behind leader but only 49 seconds behind 2nd place overall. It was a very tight race right down to the finish!
Jouni Pohjolainen: - 3rd in age group; 1:45 back of 1st. - 16th overall in Male Sport (Category 3). - Jouni had a great ride, made up a lot of time on his final lap and was charging at the end.
Jeremy Pohjolainen: - 1st in age group; - 22nd overall in Male Sport (Category 3). - On the long steep climbs, Jeremy was passing the older riders 2 or 3 at a time like they were standing still, much to their chagrin.
Kevin Marier: - 3rd in age group; 14:09 back of 1st. - 83rd overall in Male Sport (Category 3).
Full results.

Jun 4, 09 - Trek Bike Store Canada Cup/O-Cup #3 at Hardwood Hills (report & photos): Here is the report and some photos compiled by Mike Del Nin about the squadron trip down to the Trek Bike Store Canada Cup/O-Cup #3 on May 31/09 at Hardwood Hills. It is a must read for anyone considering a squadron trip this summer!

May 31, 09 - Trek Bike Store Canada Cup/O-Cup #3 at Hardwood Hills: Way to go Squadron!
Matt Del Nin had a 10th place finish (of 46 entrants) in the Men's Senior Sport (25km) with a time of 1hr, 24min. Kyle Lacosse finished 36th in the same category with a time of 1hr, 53 min.
Jordan Hay finished 18th of 22 in the Men's Junior Sport (25km) with a time of 1hr, 37min.
Katie Spittlehouse DNF in Women's Junior Expert (27km).
The complete results are online at www.pulseracing.ca

May 13, 09 - Trek Store Canada Cup/O-Cup #3 on May 31 09: One of Ontario's premiere XC races at the always popular Hardwood Hills venue is fast approaching. Racers interested in attending should contact Mike Del Nin for details (c: 628-2568; e-mail: mdelnin at tbaytel.net). Only 1 spot available so act quickly.

May 13, 09 - Squadron Frequently Asked Questions:

Q. What is the Squadron anyway? A. The Squadron was established to both enable and encourage Blacksheep members to test their skills and fitness against out-of-town competition. Over the years, members have attended many races and done very well. In fact, Blacksheep has a great reputation within Ontario and Canadian mountain biking circles.

Q. How does the Squadron work? A. Riders interested in participating in Squadron events express their interest to Kevin Paradis. Although Kevin occasionally goes on some trips, he does not and cannot travel to all out-of-town events (he has a job, likes to cycle and coach), rumour has it he is responsible for some "diaper duty" for young Tycho. Kevin picks events that make sense for Blacksheep members, he tries to encourage participation and helps to coordinate and/or connect those interested in participating. He also knows many of the venues, how to travel inexpensively, where to stay, where to eat, what to expect, etc. Many riders make their own arrangements and often travel with parents and/or carpool with parents/fellow riders.

Q. What about costs? A. Although Kevin is the undisputed master of cheap travel, it still costs money to travel to and compete in O-Cup events. Blacksheep members who want to travel are now required to cover their own costs in full.

Event fees range from $22 to $50, licences from $30 - $40 (single event permits) to $95 to $140 (full season UCI licence), while travel, accommodations and food can be anywhere from $200 to $400 per rider per trip depending on duration, destination, price of gas, motel/hotel or camping, food preferences, etc. Usually, the escort takes his/her own vehicle, is reimbursed for fuel used (not on a per km basis), and does not contribute financially as they are providing a vehicle and their time. Daughters/sons of escorts are expected to contribute an equal share. An estimate of costs is prepared in advance of the trip so that everyone knows the costs up-front and participants are expected to provide an advance of funds before the trip. Costs are tracked and each participant is given an itemized accounting of expenses, along with any additional charge (unusual) or refund (more likely) if costs differ from the estimate. If you need assistance with understanding or estimating costs or planning a trip, feel free to contact Kevin or Mike Del Nin (h: 767-0916 or mdelnin@tbaytel.net).

Q. I want to go but who will take me? A. A wise person once said that God helps those who help themselves. If you are interested in competing in a Squadron event, don't wait for someone else to ask you . . . talk to your parents and friends, indicate your interest on the Blacksheep forums, talk to Kevin or a member of the Executive, etc. There is no guarantee you'll find someone to bring you but it is guaranteed you won't if you don't make any effort.

Apr 5, 09 - 2009 Black Sheep Squadron sked finalized. Click here

Please see the Forum for any off-season information, or contact Kevin Paradis (kparadis@thunderbay.ca).