The Jersey..... Origination and Design

Our eye-catching jersey, that represents detailed aspects of the Lompoc Valley was designed in 1995 and evolved from a spirited club contest. Thanks to two-time club president Rich Gracyk’s comprehensive memory and notes, the jersey’s origination follows.

In ‘95, club riders at the Great Western Bicycle Rally decided our organization needed “colors.” Additionally, Gracyk recalls, in 1995 the LVBC was engaged in “informal rivalry” with the Goleta Valley Bicycle Club, and that group already had distinctive jerseys. Although the LVBC had a T-shirt, it was unsuitable for riding, and the need for specific club apparel was evident.

A talented military graphics art specialist, then a member, submitted several designs for club consideration, and a contest developed. Rich , as a club president and a City of Lompoc graphic designer, became personally involved. His concept, including the mission, valley farm fields, the sky, mountains, and a space shuttle in launch, came from aspects of the City of Lompoc Seal. The “day glow yellow” jersey portion paralleled the shocking visibility of the desk highlighter he used during the design process.

Rich’s concept was an instant hit with the club. Because of the tragic Challenger explosion, however, members opted to replace the shuttle design with another space symbol. Mark Moore, then a member, supplied the artwork and details needed to transform the Shuttle into the Titan 4 missile that appeared on the final design.

A design is one thing. A product is another. During the contest, members contacted several manufacturers. Hopes to use a major Central Coast firm in Grover Beach (Voler) faded when the set-up fees and production expenses became prohibitive. Moreover, Voler appeared disinterested because of the few jerseys required. PYROapparel, however, from Cleveland, Ohio, proved extremely cooperative and provided both product samples and valuable technical advice necessary for design completion. They produced the orginal 40 jerseys ordered in 1996, and PYRO remains our supplier today. Incidentally, credit Pyro with the unusual “checkerboard” pattern on our cuffs, collar, and side panels. The panels themselves are more than decorative. They serve an important function by providing a “border” to allow for the differing sizes that “frame” our art patterns.

A final note. Orginally, Grayck believed his design would have a two year life span. After that, he envisioned the club would adopt new symbols. Ten years later, our “colors” remain unchanged and still “turn heads” wherever viewed during cycling events.

HISTORIAN NOTE: This is the third in a monthly series to be published in 2006 dealing with the heritage, activities, and members of the Lompoc Valley Bicycle Club. Data for the articles comes from personal interviews, and, when existing, club record documentation.