Our Philosophy
Our women’s squad is made up of women of all levels; from recreational riders to elite racers. As diverse as our riding abilities, our membership is comprised of students, 
professionals, mothers, and sometimes all of the above!
The program aims to provide training, socializing, and racing opportunities that fit into its members’ schedules. With many members coming to QCW from backgrounds in triathlon, running, and spin class, our members mentor each other and collaborate with the men’s squads to inspire the confidence and athleticism needed to pursue even the highest cycling goals.
2010 Season in Review
Our squad began 2010 as a group of Cat 4 novices and finished the season with riders upgrading to Cat 2 and 3 and trying other disciplines like mountain bike racing, and cyclocross.
Rider Kacy Wander traveled to Vermont to win the general classification in cat 3/4, finishing a strong season that includes two state champion titles and the PA BAR (Best All-around Rider) title in Cat 4.
Laura Hellenthal secured second place in the cat 4 PA BAR after winning the 2010 PA State Championship Road Race. Laura’s all-around skills shone as she raced in the yellow leader’s jersey at the Tour de Millersburg, and taking first place at DeSales Criterium.
The PA BAR top ten also included QCW’s Aliza Karetnick and Melanie Glenn, who represented the team on numerous leaders’ podiums in road racing, time trialing, and mountain biking. Melanie’s and Aliza’s leadership increased the squad’s numbers—which began as a handful of athletes—to 26 women strong in 2010.
Increasing Membership and Mentorship
Our women’s team looks to 2011 as an opportunity to attract new members who are interested in learning to ride or in honing their skills with a diverse group of women. QCW’s self-governed club can accommodate all women athletes’ abilities and goals, and our members look to each other to share knowledge and resources.
This spirit of mentorship has driven us to take on a group of ju- nior girl riders for 2011, some of whom have already begun riding with the women’s squad. The women’s squad aims to increase its involvement with the junior program in 2011, bringing more junior girls to the club and helping out with the existing junior athletes.
QCW Cycling Women’s Team Goals
1. Recruit ten new women to the team
2. Participate in five races with junior girls’ team
3. Upgrade three members to next category
4. Increase women’s team participation in overal QCW training rides
5. Establish a QCW Women’s team member as an officer in PA Women’s Racing, a statewide advocacy group for female cyclists and a valuable tool for increasing the team’s regional presence.