11-2-2009 Newsletter

Registration Update

Everyone who has pre-registered with Team Shell and qualified for Team Priority Registration should have received their long-awaited e-mail
from the NMSS this morning with instructions on how to complete the final step of the registration process.  The e-mail was sent to the
address that the NMSS has on record for you.  If you did not receive yours, please send an e-mail to MSEVENTS@NMSSLONESTAR.ORG with your correct e-mail address, first and last names, and mention that you are
with Team Shell.  They will update your account accordingly, reset your login credentials, and resend you the registration e-mail.

Even though priority registration will be available until November 20, please make an effort to complete yours as soon as possible to avoid any last minute hick ups.  If for any reason you don't meet this deadline, your spot will be forfeited and the only remaining opportunity will be general registration on Dec 2 and 5, which will be offered on first come, first served basis.

What to Expect Next

Well, not much is left to do other than dusting off that old bike and getting on with training!

If you're on the market for new cycling equipment, keep an eye on the newsletter where I normally announce discount programs from local bike shops.  The first to arrive is from Bike Barn - check out their offering and sign up for a discount card at: http://bikebarn.com/page.cfm?pageid=1316.

For those who are interested in joining the 12-week CP Training Series, details will be announced in early December.

For those needing on-bike safety training, Team Shell will offer free classes beginning in January.  Similar classes will be available via
local Bike Shops and the NMSS but for a small fee.  Dates and locations will be announced as they become available.

For those needing online safety training, online training resources are currently being reviewed by the MS150 Safety Committee and are expected to be finalized in early January.

For advice on cycling gear, training regimen, on-bike nutrition/hydration, etc., your best bet is to hook up with an experienced rider/mentor.  Our team's mentoring program will be announced shortly after registration closes on December 5.  Meanwhile, if you are an experienced rider and MS150 veteran who is willing to help, please drop me an e-mail.

For now, I'll continue sending updates on as needed basis.  Beginning January, I'll change to a structured weekly newsletter but I promise to keep it short and relevant.

Upcoming Rides

Saturday, November 7, 2009 - Novemberfest Metric Century
www.novemberfestmetriccentury.org

A wonderful charity ride dedicated to the programs and services at The Center Serving Persons with Mental Retardation.  Routes include 10, 23, 40, 47 and 64 mile rides near scenic Stephen F. Austin State Park and the pastoral surrounding countryside. This fun-filled, pedal-pounding event is held in conjunction with NovemberFest 2009, a day of food, live music, live and silent auctions, a parade, and entertainment for the whole family.

Saturday, November 14, 2009 - Independence Ride
www.wallisride.com

The 3rd Annual Wallis Independence Ride in support of disabled veterans through the Independence Fund.  This ride means so much to the veterans and their families and caregivers - it means a time of freedom to be out and be active and part of a community.  Route options include 12, 23, 44, 65 miles.

Sunday, November 22, 2009 - Bike the Bend Ride for Literacy
www.ftbendliteracy.org

Whether you are an avid cyclist or simply enjoying the exercise and local scenery, there is something for everyone at this event.  The 4th
Annual Bike the Bend provides a wonderful opportunity to get a workout, spend time with your family and benefit literacy efforts in your
community.

Regards,

Afif  Halal
Team Captain, Shell