Cutler, Isambert take top honor

They say once you learn how to ride a bike, you never forget.

But Allison Cutler and Claude Isambert can do it faster than any other tandem around.

Cutler and Isambert, a pair of San Clemente residents who both work in Laguna Beach, won the 70-plus Tandem Mixed division at the Southern California/Nevada Cycling Assn. State Time Trial Championships, held May 23 at Lake Los Angeles east of Palmdale.

Cutler, 39, is the stoker (person in back). Isambert, 45, is the captain (in front and in charge of shifting and steering).

They finished the 23.5-mile course in 56 minutes, 7.18 seconds.

The 70-plus division refers to the fact that their combined age is over 70, and they’re in the “mixed” division as noted by gender.

“I enjoy riding as the stoker,” Cutler, who works for the Laguna Beach Unified School District as a receptionist, wrote in an e-mail. “Claude is my captain and he has been a professional cyclist for over 30 years. He began his career in France and has such a huge knowledge base and skills that I am put as ease with him in control. Moving at such high speeds can be dangerous without an experienced captain.”

Cutler said she and Isambert have done several other events this year, including a Solving century (100-mile ride) and the Gran Fondo in San Diego. They ride on the weekends for the San Clemente team called “The Renegades.”

The race at Lake Los Angeles was early in the day and riders were sent on the course every 30 seconds and timed, Cutler said in the e-mail.

“It’s exciting to be there and see the best riders in the state, and to see the nicest bikes as well,” Cutler said. “The best part is that as a winner, you’re able to purchase a jersey. It’s like a badge of honor and is recognized throughout the state when you wear it ... We are happy to be sharing this victory with our friends and family and can’t wait to wear the jerseys!”