Welcome to Ohio Cycling Association

OCA announces The Ohio Cup 2007. The OCA is a state governing body for road, cyclocross and track racing in Ohio. OCA is affiliated with USA Cycling. This web portal (http://ohiocycling.org/) aims to provide information for its members and non-members about the sport of cycling in Ohio.

USA Cycling Annual Team Membership

Our 2007 Team/Club Application, under the name “RGF Solutions Cycling Team” has been submitted. Please re-new your 2007 race license at www.usacycling.org under our USA Cycling Club ID: 11405.

Club Information:
RGF Solutions Cycling Team
Robert G. Frenandez
6785 Wallings Rd. Suite 2F
North Royalton, OH 44133
(440)582-5294
rfernandez@rgfsolutions.com

Club ID: 11405
Club Type: USAC
Club Status: Active
Club Contacts: Robert Fernandez – President

Current Active Members (as of 04/05/07):
 1.  Richard Brink                12/31/2007
 2.  Andrew Clarke              12/31/2007
 3.  Joel Cockley                  12/31/2007
 4.  Hector Colon                 12/31/2007
 5.  Polo Fernandez            12/31/2007
 6.  Robert Fernandez Sr.  12/31/2007
 7.  Cameron Jackson       12/31/2007
 8.  Stefan Kadar                 12/31/2007
 9.  Joseph Lombardo       12/31/2007
10. Geoffery Pfeiffer           12/31/2007
11. Anthony Rienzi             12/31/2007
12. Michael Vega               12/31/2007

12/13/07

The RGF Solutions/Panther Cycling Team is proud to announce the partnership with great sponsors (SIGMA SPORT) for our cycling program.

SIGMA SPORT:

ABOUT SIGMA SPORT: SIGMA SPORT stands for innovative high performance and quality products at great value. We believe it is important to be seen as a fair, friendly and competent partner at all levels. That is why we believe it is necessary to take on social and ecological responsibilities. As a young and dynamic company, we are proud of our enthusiastic employees, and their uncomplicated and straightforward way of interacting with one another. We see this as an essential factor contributing to and guaranteeing our success.
We set our priorities in:

11/30/07

The RGF Solutions/Panther Cycling Team is proud to announce the partnership with these great sponsor's for our cycling program.

Shimano, Inc.:

Corporate Profile: People know the joy of contacting their hearts to the breathing of nature. People know the joy of meeting someone to communicate with each other. That's simply because all people have nature in themselves. And tools are largely connected with the joy of people. We at Shimano have been providing attractive products with a focus on cycling and fishing, the most popular outdoor sports. Wind touching the skin, sunlight streaming through the trees and wave patterns covering the water excite the hearts of people. We are aiming to become a company to create excitements among people. We will continue to support people to realize their dreams to create new lifestyles to bring them closer to nature and share the joy of life with each other. bike.shimano.com

Thule, Inc.:

About Thule, Inc.: To say that Thule’s beginnings in the US were humble would be an understatement – Founding member Ake Skeppner sold direct to end users at windsurf competitions on the New England shoreline; exhibited the product line at a number of different trade shows and even canvassed local retailers in the greater New York area, all from his “office” - a now famous station wagon. Initial success was found in the small but growing sport of windsurfing where a strong, reliable roof rack was an indispensable piece of equipment. This was quickly followed by success in the ski business where Thule’s Swedish heritage certainly helped the product gain rapid acceptance. By the mid-eighties the first major milestone of the company occurred. At this point, the company sold directly to ski and windsurfing shops but sold through distributors to address the large and growing bike business. A risky decision was made to terminate these distributor relationships and sell direct to retailers through a network of independent sales representatives. Upon this decision rests much of the company's market success today. As the company’s sales in the bike business grew, so did the competition with another US rack manufacturer. By the late eighties, Åke and his management team felt that the US market had changed - roof racks were seen as almost lifestyle accessories - and customers demanded features and products different to those available from Thule Sweden where roof racks where viewed more simply as a car accessory. From this sprang the decision that would be the company’s second major milestone. Åke hired a US engineer and set up a small assembly plant in Elmsford, NY in order to design and manufacture bike carriers that would offer the features demanded by the US consumer and compete effectively with other racks on the market. From this decision grew the strategy to design and manufacture products in the USA for the US market. Since this time, the company has grown rapidly through product innovation, a commitment to quality and the continuance of a strong entrepreneurial spirit. Into the year 2000 and beyond, Thule continues to evolve our products to meet the need of users. www.thuleracks.com

11/10/07

Another Sponsor for 2008:

The RGF Solutions/Panther Cycling Team is proud to announce the partnership with these great sponsor's for our cycling program.

Venture Lighting International, Inc.:

About Venture Lighting: The fastest growing metal halide lighting company in the world, is the only one concentrated on this technology. Since 1983, we've created a constant stream of new systems for our customers. Our range of optimized lamps and ballasts, including the revolutionary Uni-Form® pulse start system, has grown to encompass lamp wattages 50 to 2,000. This unique focus offers you peak performance lighting solutions.

Our Solon, Ohio headquarters includes a state-of-the-art development and new products manufacturing center to support our leadership in originating new systems. The company is part of Advanced Lighting Technologies Inc. (ADLT) Our sister companies feature complementary capabilities: APL Engineered Materials (APL) is a strategic supplier of halides, amalgams and other components to the lighting industry. Deposition Sciences, Inc. (DSI) is a leader in sophisticated thin film coatings and deposition systems to the lighting industry. www.venturelighting.com

Tuesday night Cross Ride:

Start Time: 6-6:30 P.M. Meet @ Station Rd. trailhead (South of Route 82 on Riverview at the bottom of the hill across from Park entrance). Casual 1-2 hour ride on towpath with some loops and variation from week to week. Ride will go as long as the weather holds (no rain or snow). Lights are a good options to bring but you can ride off of someone else ray but not recommended. Any questions give me a call @440.336.5529. Bob Martin

’08 Spring Training Team Clinic:

Schedule coming soon!! Please watch your emails.

Charleston, SC (February, 2008)
Asheville, NC (April, 2008)

10/22/07

RGF Solutions/Panther Announces '08 Team.

Cleveland, OH (October 22, 2007) – RGF Sports Marketing Group, LLC. and its chief venture, the RGF Solutions/Panther Cycling Team, is poised for a big year.

The Cleveland based powerhouse squad, dedicated to promoting ethical sporting and developing the next generation of cycling champions, today unveiled it's highly-anticipated 2008 team roster, announced that it has signed Panther Expedited Services, Inc as a co-title sponsor.

The 2008 RGF Solutions /Panther Cycling Team roster is comprised of: Mike Busa, (age 26, formerly of Texas Roadhouse); Andy Clarke (age 36); Dave Chernosky age 42), Jeremy Grimm, (age 33, formerly of God Speed); Mike House, (age 24, formerly of Texas Roadhouse); Stefan Kadar, (age 33); Noah Metzler, (age 19, formerly of Spoke & Wheels); Andy Moskal (age 20, formerly of Texas Roadhouse); Dan Campbell, (age 24, formerly of Anthem BCBS Cycling Team); Cameron Jackson, (age 20); (03/22/88); Anthony Rienzi, (age 21); Geoff Pfeiffer, Jr., (age 18); Dick Brink, (age 53); Polo Fernandez, (age 41), Bob Martin, (age 39), and Bob Fernandez (age 60).

"We are positioned an outstanding year and are excited to have grown our relationship with both RGF Solutions and Panther," said Robert G. Fernandez, RGF Sports Marketing Groups' Founder and President. "to unearth and develop young talent in the sport of cycling”

RGF Sports Marketing Group, LLC continues to seek a primary title sponsor for the team.

Clothing Update:

Both Andy Clarke and I continue to investigate the best possible team clothing offer. We are currently speaking to Hincapie Sports, Capoforma, and Giordana. Andy and I expect to have our final decision made by October 25th regarding the exact brand we will be running (cycling) with. More to come soon…

Frame Update:

The Team will be ordering our team frame-set from Felt Bicycles by mid November.

Sponsors for 2008:

The RGF Solutions/Panther Cycling Team is proud to announce the partnership with these great sponsor's for our cycling program.

RGF Solutions, Inc. – Outsourced Research Sponsor:

About RGF Solutions: RGF Solutions, headquartered in North Royalton, Ohio, was established in 2003. RGF Solutions, Inc. provides outstanding research and recruiting service for the leading internationally recognized retained executive search firms and prominent corporate human resources departments. Our specialties expand beyond name generation. RGF Solutions, Inc. can effectively investigate the individuals produced during the name generation process to determine who fits the precise qualifications of the hiring company.
www.rgfsolutions.com

Panther Expedited Services, Inc. – Logistics Solutions Sponsor:

About Panther Expedited Services, Inc.: Panther is dedicated to providing the logistics solutions to meet our customers critical transportation needs. Through the industry's premier Web interface, our customers can quote, book, and track shipments online-whether that shipment is on the ground or in the air-without making a telephone call. We provide both ground expedite and air options, optimizing both shipment routes and rates, and giving our customers customized solutions with the most competitive prices available for the transportation mode and delivery timeframes they require. Our proprietary quote engine analyzes more than 200,000 routing alternatives for each shipment in just seconds, putting our aggregated buying power directly in the hands of our customers. Regardless of weight, distance or service schedule, Panther can provide the best solution for you.
www.pantherii.com

National City Corporation - Banking & Financial Services Institution Sponsor:

About National City Corporation: National City Corporation (NYSE: NCC), headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, is one of the nation's largest financial holding companies. The company operates through an extensive banking network primarily in Ohio, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri and Pennsylvania, and also serves customers in selected markets nationally. Its core businesses include commercial and retail banking, mortgage financing and servicing, consumer finance and asset management.
www.nationalcity.com

Felt Bicycles – Bike Frame Manufacture Sponsor:

About Felt Bicycles: The backbone of the Felt family lies with three of the most remarkable men in the entire bicycle industry. Jim Felt. One of the most respected names in the history of two-wheel travel. Renowned in the motocross industry for his mechanical expertise with Yamaha™, Kawasaki™, Suzuki™ and Honda™; he took riders like Broc Glover and Johnny O’Mara to victory in, literally, hundreds of races. A keen amateur triathlete himself, this foundation launched his desire to enter into the realms of bicycle design in 1991 and he soon became renowned by the triathlon industry for his top-drawer frame designs. Patronized by the likes of 8-time Ironman Triathlon World Champion Paula Newby-Fraser and Kenny Souza, the most winning duathlete in the history of the sport, he was soon snapped up by Easton Sports™, where he was responsible for some of their most innovative bicycle tube shapes. Later, he aligned with Answer Products™ where he pioneered the infamous matte black ‘B2’, the stealth machine that has since seen many imitations as one of the most envied looks in design history. The year 2000 saw a need to break away from the corporate web, and in an uncertain time of mergers, takeovers and acquisitions, two of the industry’s biggest corporate heavyweights were looking for a similar opportunity. Bill Duehring, former VP of GT Bicycles, was responsible for all product development in the formative years of BMX and the mountain biking/full suspension explosion. Already renowned for his unparalleled ability to create the finest bikes in the world with the best quality components and armed with years of experience of building solid and lasting relationships in the Far East, he brought his expertise to the table and provided a safe haven for the select few he brought with him. Michael Müllmann, his international partner and owner of Sport Import, a top worldwide distribution powerhouse for hugely successful brands like GT and RockShox; completed the triangle in addition by launching the Felt brand into Europe’s largest market, Germany, now our international sales headquarters. The planets aligned and the star of the show – Felt Bicycles – was launched headlong into an unfulfilled and expectant market…and took the industry by storm. Five years down the line, Felt has gone from strength to strength, going from just 6 models and a blanket sell-out in the U.S. to over 140 models across 27 countries. Bill, Michael and Jim have brought together some of the finest skill sets and experience in the industry. They created a niche group of highly skilled and dedicated people who work together to create bicycles that consistently exceed their riders’ expectations by providing a sense of individuality, inspiration and pride in ownership. We are not governed by our competitors’ measurements of success - the desire to push beyond the limits of technology never allows us to rest on our laurels.
www.feltracing.com

Zipp Speed Weaponry – Wheels and Specialty Component Sponsor:

About Zipp: Zipp Speed Weaponry serves a select group of elite companies and athletes, globally located and committed to bicycle & wheelchair competition. Zipp meets customer's needs for the highest performance, superlative quality components through innovative design and manufacturing utilizing the best material and technology available. Our company is built on mutual respect, delivery on promise and fastidious attention to manufacturing details. We do this by providing exceptional customer service and aggressive marketing, supporting distribution through dedicated dealers, distributors, OE's and direct sales. Market share growth is achieved through continuous product and process improvement, adding new products, additional categories and expanding the distribution channels. We are a manufacturing company located in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.
www.zipp.com

Brecksville Velo Sports – Bicycle Retail Shoppe Sponsor:

About Brecksville Velo Sport: Brecksville Velo Sport was started in 2003 to cater to those who enjoyed everything that bicycling has to offer as well as those who have yet to discover the enjoyment of two wheel travel. We sell and service bikes for the serious racer and club rider, to the family who enjoy spending the afternoon together on the local bike path. At our store, serious mixes with comfort, casual, style, and the enjoyment of two wheel transportation. Where you buy, however, has everything to do with what you get. You see, bicycles aren't like toasters or suitcases. Bikes are shipped in boxes and they must be assembled and tuned. There are many types, too, and you should never buy until you've figured out which is right for you. Measurements and adjustments are required to ensure the frame is the correct size and that the seat and handlebars are properly positioned. And, every new bicycle will need a minor tune-up after several weeks of use. What's more, modern road and mountain bikes can travel at high speeds and carry you over demanding terrain where the machine's materials and construction get tested. A quality two-wheeler, carefully assembled and fit to you, will be the safest, most durable and fun bicycle to ride. For these reasons, we strongly recommend shopping at a good specialty bicycle store in our area. For instance, we hire competent salespeople and expert mechanics who'll ensure that you get the right bike and a quality machine. Look for a store that's clean, has helpful personnel, offers a good selection, and an on-site repair department.
www.breckvelosport.com

BMW Cleveland – Automobile Dealership Sponsor:

About BMW Cleveland: At BMW Cleveland, it is our mission to take your BMW buying experience to a NEW level. Combined, our Management team has over 100 years of experience in the automotive industry. We are the only dealer in Northeast Ohio that is an authorized Dinan installer. We're also proud to offer European delivery of your BMW.
www.clevelandbmw.com

GU Energy Gel - Sports Energy Nutrition Sponsor:

About GU Energy Gel: GU Energy Gel has become the official supplier of our energy nutrition for the RGF Solutions/Panther Cycling team for the 2008 cycling season. GU Energy Gel’s mission from day one, which is still true today, is to provide athletes the best exercise specific nutrition products available. Period!
www.gusports.com

RGF Sports Marketing Group is currently in active conversation with the following potential sponsors:
Sram
Thule
Shimano USA
Look
Cytosport
Specialized
Speedplay
Vittoria
Bell Sports / Blackburn – Andy Clarke

10/2/07
2007 Westlake Race Series

Congratulation to Dave Chernosky for his 1st place GC with 120 points making him the 2007 Westlake Race Series Champion!!!

The RGF Solutions / Panther Cycling team also took the following overall places: Stefan Kadar took 3rd place overall with 87 points; Bon Martin took 7th place overall with 47 points; Dick Brink took 11th place overall with 35 points, Polo Fernandez tool 13th overall with 31 points; and Mike Vega took 20th overall with 15 points. Other notables include: Cameron Jackson finished 16th overall with 20 points and Anthony Rienzi finished 24th overall with 12 points. Again, congratulations Team for great year.

InterBike - An event worth seeing:

My visit to Las Vegas was everything I expected and more. It was nonstop meeting after meeting with Marketing Executives for many of the top known brands in the cycling industry. Thanks to my team: Dick Brink, Randy Ward and Andy Clarke; I was introduced to some of the coolest individuals you will ever want to meet. The following is a list of companies that highlight my visit that I had the pleasure of speaking to with positive reception about our cycling program (in alpha order):

• Sram
• Felt Bicycles
• Zipp Wheels
• Competitive Cyclist.com
• Thule
• Shimano USA
• Look
• Hincapie Sports
• GU Energy Gel
• Cytosport
• GITA Sports
• Louis Garneau
• Specialized
• Speedplay
• Vittoria
• Bell Sports / Blackburn – Andy Clarke

New Sports Energy Nutrition Sponsor:

The RGF Solutions/Panther Cycling Team secures another great sponsor of our cycling program. GU Energy Gel (www.gusports.com) has become the official supplier of our energy nutrition for the RGF Solutions/Panther Cycling team for the 2008 cycling season.

GU Energy Gel’s mission from day one, which is still true today, is to provide athletes the best exercise specific nutrition products available. Period!

Tuesday night Cross Ride:

Start Time: 6-6:30 P.M. Meet @ Station Rd. trailhead (South of Route 82 on Riverview at the bottom of the hill across from Park entrance). Casual 1-2 hour ride on towpath with some loops and variation from week to week. Ride will go as long as the weather holds (no rain or snow). Lights are a good options to bring but you can ride off of someone else ray but not recommended. Any questions give me a call @440.336.5529. Bob Martin

’08 Spring Training Team Clinic:

Schedule coming soon!! Please watch your emails.

Charleston, SC (February, 2008)
Asheville, NC (April, 2008)

9/13/07

Please find below our 2008 RGF Solutions / Panther Elite Team Roster. I need everyone to review your contact data information listed and enter you the appropriate information (i.e. sizes) ASAP.

Andy Clarke, Dick Brink and I will be an InterBike (www.interbike.com) later this month, so please send us your biography with race results for the past several years including any notable career highlights no later than 09/18/07.

As a side note: Our team and our program is going to make a tremendous positive impact for our sponsors and community throughout the Mid-west for many years to come!!!

CONFIRMED 2008 RGF SOLUTIONS / PANTHER CYCLING TEAM ROSTER:

Elite Team 8:

9/05/07
Newest Team Signing:

RGF Sports Marketing Group, LLC has signed Jeremy Grimm (Category 1) from Orrville, OH. Jeremy signed with the team on September 1, 2007 for the balance of this season and for the entire 2008 season. Jeremy is married to his lively wife Becky and they have a beautiful daughter.

Congratulations to the following RGF Solutions Cycling Team Members:

• Andy Clarke took 1st place at both the Grand Prix of Groveport - Individual Time Trial on 06/24/07 and the Elite Ohio State Criterium Championships in Columbus, OH on 09/01/07
• Dave Chernosky finished 1st at The Garrett Wonders Memorial Criterium - Cat 1/2/3 on 06/16/07
• Stefan Kadar took 3rd place overall with only competing in two of the three events at The Chapel Criterium Series on 07/12 & 07/19/07. Overall winner was Jeremy Grimm, now RGF Solutions Team Member.
• Andy Clarke took 1st place, Jeremy Grimm took 2nd place, and Dave Chernosky finished 6th place at the Elite Ohio State Criterium Championships in Columbus, OH on 09/01/07
• Dick Bring took 2nd place at the Master 50+ Ohio State Criterium Championships in Columbus, OH on 09/01/07.
• Dave Chernosky finished 10th place in the Master35+ Debaets-Devos Pro AM Memorial Criterium on 09/03/07

Other Notable Results:
Tour di Via Italia Results

September 3, 2007 The Tour di Via Italia took place yesterday on a fast 1km course in front of the Casino Windsor in downtown Windsor, Ontario . Paul Martin (Kentucky Flyers won the Senior 1/2 Men’s race and Merrill Collins (La Bicicletta) won the Senior, Master and Junior Women’s competition. See web-link below for complete race results:
Race Results