Nebraska Cycling News

Galata Sweeps at National Senior Games

Written by Randy Crist
Tuesday, 03 July 2007
Courtesy Photo Louisville, KY - Fred Galata of Omaha Velo Club had an exceptionally successful week at the National Senior Olympic Games in Louisville, Kentucky, last week, winning all four cycling events in the 55-59 age group. Fred's versatility was evident in his two road wins, the first coming from a solo attack off from a pack of 6 riders, which broke off from the 60 member peloton in the 40k circuit race, for a 35 second win. He then won by half a wheel-length in an uphill field sprint in the shorter second circuit race. Fred's time in the 5k time trial was a new Senior games record. He narrowly avoided a mishap, saying that, "I ended up taking the turn-around a little too hot. My tubulars started to slide out from under me, and when compensating to stay upright my left foot popped out of my pedal. I lost valuable time and momentum., but finished with a 7:11 and a 26.5 MPH average. I was surprised to find out that I had won, and by just 2 seconds over 2nd. "I came away from the Games with an appreciation for good health. Afterall, the older riders wouldn't be there without it. Everyone was serious about competing, but at the same time you would have a laugh with them after each event. Camaraderie at its finest."
Last Updated ( Tuesday, 03 July 2007 )