DBC Race Team Skilz Training Rides

Susan Murin ready to roll for the THursday night Skilz ride.

I invested in a better bike, and over a few months increased my speed and mileage, did my first metric then full century, and learned to ride up hills (not necessarily in that order).  I usually rode with one or two others, or alone, and the rules and skills of riding in a pack were a mystery. I wanted to change that-- but where to start? What group would possibly want a “newbie,” that notoriously skittish and dangerous species, in its midst?  I inquired of a colleague, Chris Bowlus, about DBC group rides, and he connected me with Kevin McSpadden, ride leader for the DBC race team Skillz Ride. I was in luck- the Skillz ride was just starting up for the season, and via email Kevin encouraged me to come. The Skillz ride is a weekly affair, every Thursday June-Sept starting from Sutter Hospital at 6 p.m. It is led by Kevin with grace, skill, encouragement, and humor. Rides started with a few instructions and then we were off to Winters. Kevin rotated through the group, providing needed pointers, encouragement, and demonstrations. Together we learned about spacing, pacing, pacelines, echelons, group etiquette, safety, and so much more. It was a thrill to see the group’s skills improve from June to September, and to be part of a rotating paceline flying (relatively speaking) down Putah Creek Road.  We all got more comfortable, more confident, and faster. A highlight one evening was being sucked into the 'real' race team ride, and being pulled along at 28 mph for a few miles (before being spit out the back). The group had not only Kevin’s great leadership, it had great spirit, with members encouraging and supporting one another. After the rides Kevin put in overtime, providing additional instruction on technique, talking about equipment, and making adjustments to our bikes. It was a fantastic experience, and I’ll definitely be back next June, for another season of Skillz rides. And for next year's goal? Hmmm, maybe a Wed night Putah Creek Time Trial?

Kevin McSpadden, the much appreciated Skilz ride leader