Road Bike Racing - What's the scoop on Houston area cycling clubs/teams?

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packfodder
09-08-03, 04:21 PM
I've read the threads about people wanting to start racing. Often the advice begins with "join a team." So..., I’d like to start riding with a club/team to get an idea of whether I would like to try a little competitive cycling next season.

What’s the scoop on some of the Houston area clubs/teams? I met a member of the Woodlands club, and it sounds like a good group – friendly, laid back, ... What about some other clubs? Northwest cycling club is a large one, but I don’t know a thing about them. I think there’s one in the Clearlake area too.

I guess I have 2 main concerns. First, I don’t want to be associated with a bunch of snobs. Second, I’d prefer to join a group that is based relatively close to where I live (inside the loop). The Woodlands group sounds great, but isn’t there something closer? If not, my aversion to roadie snobs greatly outweighs my desire for a closely located team – I’ll gladly make the drive.

I know I’m asking for generalizations here – every team is sure to have its own “characters” - but it’s a place to start. I’ll try to go on some training rides with several groups to get an idea, but I’d like a little heads up if anyone is in the know.

Thanks.


djpluv
09-08-03, 04:32 PM
You should do a search on clubs in that area on USA Cycling's website. I think there might be some ACA clubs in TX, as well, though all I see is mainly western TX.

http://www.usacycling.org/cgi-local/Database_manager/db_manager.cgi?setup_file=club.srch

http://www.americancycling.org/info/members/clubs/texas.htm

I think a good way to find a club is to go on some group rides in the area. Most are open to anyone with a bike. Hit some local bike shops, too, and ask them for recommendations.

Good luck!

Paul

lotek
09-08-03, 07:59 PM
Check out Tx bicycle racing Assoc at
TXBRA (http://www.txbra.org/home/home.asp) or
Bicycle Texas (http://www.bicycletexas.com/bike_links.htm) lots of links to local clubs.

Marty