I had decided over a week ago that I was not going to be racing at Hillsboro, but rather support my team by doing whatever needed to be done no matter how small or insignificant it seemed. I enjoyed it, too. I ran small errands, gave people directions, helped folks get signed in, drove a wheel truck, and helped with the tearing down process afterwards. All of it a pleasure.
So, why am I writing to tell you this? The entire time I was at the race on Saturday, I felt as though I was fighting my body's desire to swing a leg over a bike and turn some pedals in competition. I was revved up and ready to roll. I'm sure some of you have been in that situation, too. The clicking of the gears and the spinning of the wheels and racers pulling on their kits with the emotion of matadors preparing for a bull fight. All of the pre-race hype was present, except on Saturday, it wasn't for me. My mind accepted it, but my body didn't.
Fast forward to Saturday night. I got home and was exhausted from the day, but my body wouldn't relax. I didn't think I'd sleep well Saturday night and actually resorted to a prescription sleep aid. It worked, but when I awoke Sunday morning, I could tell my body was on edge. Luckily, I was scheduled for a 30 minute time trial later that afternoon. After church, I suited up for the cool, rainy weather...in shorts, a short sleeve jersey, a thin wind jacket, and gobs of Qoleum embrocation on my legs because of my 'pledge to ignore the cold/wet weather.' It was time for someone to pay and that someone was me. Unleash the hounds!!
After a 20 minute warm-up, I punched the Garmin and began my TT. I was cranking along at a nice clip and actually thought to myself I need to back off a little bit in order to not burn out too early. I reeled myself back in a little and settled on a pace I knew I could keep going for the entire 30 minutes. I felt good and hammered the miles out. The end result? I increased my average speed by almost 2mph from last month's TT.
And today...my legs hurt. I think the price was right.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Foo Fighters & Rush
A buddy (and fellow concert tag-a-long) sent me a note last week referencing this video. It seems two of my favorite groups found their way on stage together and jammed a little bit. While the video quality isn't all that good, the idea of these guys jamming together is quite cool. Here's the story from the website:
"According to the Sun Media, RUSH singer-bassist Geddy Lee and guitarist Alex Lifeson surprised the crowd by showing up about an hour into the FOO FIGHTERS' two-hour-and-10-minute performance to play with drummer Taylor Hawkins during his drum solo and the three musicans then played "YYZ", a spiralling progressive-rock instrumental from RUSH's 1981 album "Moving Pictures".
The Toronto prog-rockers injected some much-needed energy and excitement into the proceedings and Hawkins even had a hug for Lee afterwards.
"Rush! Rush!" screamed FOO FIGHTERS leader Dave Grohl in amazement as the two musicians walked off stage.
"You've got nuts the size of grapefruits," said Grohl to Hawkins after he played with Lee and Lifeson.
The members of the two bands know each other through Nick Raskulinecz, a U.S. record producer who has worked with both groups, most recently on RUSH's "Snakes & Arrows" album in 2007.
"">
"According to the Sun Media, RUSH singer-bassist Geddy Lee and guitarist Alex Lifeson surprised the crowd by showing up about an hour into the FOO FIGHTERS' two-hour-and-10-minute performance to play with drummer Taylor Hawkins during his drum solo and the three musicans then played "YYZ", a spiralling progressive-rock instrumental from RUSH's 1981 album "Moving Pictures".
The Toronto prog-rockers injected some much-needed energy and excitement into the proceedings and Hawkins even had a hug for Lee afterwards.
"Rush! Rush!" screamed FOO FIGHTERS leader Dave Grohl in amazement as the two musicians walked off stage.
"You've got nuts the size of grapefruits," said Grohl to Hawkins after he played with Lee and Lifeson.
The members of the two bands know each other through Nick Raskulinecz, a U.S. record producer who has worked with both groups, most recently on RUSH's "Snakes & Arrows" album in 2007.
"">
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Hillsboro-Roubaix
I was extremely proud of my ICCC teammates and the work they put in for yesterday's race. The crowds were the largest ever. In fact, 504 racers rolled out during all of the classes of racing, that's huge! The acts of servanthood were plentiful and Lord I'm sure was pleased with the efforts.
I drove the wheel truck for the Women's 4 race along with my 10 year old son, and a friend from work who along watching her boyfriend mix it up in the Men's 3/4 race. I think both of them really enjoyed watching a race unfold from the perspective of the road. I really missed being in the saddle and turning some pedals in competition, but it was great to serve the Lord and the other racers.
Rich Pierce put on a great race and on all accounts, I'd say it was a great success. Here is the master himself announcing the winners at the end of the race.
Well done, friend!
I drove the wheel truck for the Women's 4 race along with my 10 year old son, and a friend from work who along watching her boyfriend mix it up in the Men's 3/4 race. I think both of them really enjoyed watching a race unfold from the perspective of the road. I really missed being in the saddle and turning some pedals in competition, but it was great to serve the Lord and the other racers.
Rich Pierce put on a great race and on all accounts, I'd say it was a great success. Here is the master himself announcing the winners at the end of the race.
Well done, friend!
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Natural Balance Restoration Process
One week ago I looked like this:
Yesterday, I looked like this:
What is it about taking vacations that's good for your heart, mind, and soul while you're gone, but a ruthless attack of work, problems, and life when you get back. Seems like ever since my return to work on Monday I've been in one long meeting or being running around getting things done for the house or the family. Must be a "natural balance restoration process." Sounds like something we'll see a commercial for soon.
"Did you recently return from a long vacation and are now confronted with chaotic days, endless emails, tight deadlines, and family needs? Maybe you need to talk with your doctor to see if you suffer from Natural Balance Restoration Process, or NBRP."
Yesterday, I looked like this:
What is it about taking vacations that's good for your heart, mind, and soul while you're gone, but a ruthless attack of work, problems, and life when you get back. Seems like ever since my return to work on Monday I've been in one long meeting or being running around getting things done for the house or the family. Must be a "natural balance restoration process." Sounds like something we'll see a commercial for soon.
"Did you recently return from a long vacation and are now confronted with chaotic days, endless emails, tight deadlines, and family needs? Maybe you need to talk with your doctor to see if you suffer from Natural Balance Restoration Process, or NBRP."
Sunday, March 23, 2008
I pledge...
from this day forth to banish the winter weather (or at least fail to recognize it's existence) by no longer wearing:
- arm warmers
- leg warmers
- tights
- knickers
- skull caps
- beanies
- ear warmers
- winter gloves
I will only permit the use of a Belgian embrocation lotion and a windjacket or windvest. It's time to toughen up and show this weather who's boss. In like a lion and out like a lamb...hey, that reminds me of something. Enjoy!
Chevy Chase:
Last week we made the comment that March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb. Now here to reply is our chief meteorologist, John Belushi, with a seasonal report.
John Belushi:
Thank you Chevy. Well, another winter is almost over and March true to form has come in like a lion, and hopefully will go out like a lamb. At least that's how March works here in the United States. But did you know that March behaves differently in other countries? In Norway, for example, March comes in like a polar bear and goes out like a walrus. Or, take the case of Honduras where March comes in like a lamb and goes out like a salt marsh harvest mouse. Let's compare this to the Maldive Islands where March comes in like a wildebeest and goes out like an ant. A tiny, little ant about this big. [holds thumb and index fingers a small distance apart]
Unlike the Malay Peninsula where March comes in like a worm-eating fernbird and goes out like a worm-eating fernbird. In fact, their whole year is like a worm-eating fernbird. Or consider the Republic of South Africa where March comes in like a lion and goes out like a different lion. Like one has a mane, and one doesn't have a mane. Or in certain parts of South America where March swims in like a sea otter, and then it slithers out like a giant anaconda. There you can buy land real cheap, you know. And there's a country where March hops in like a kangaroo, and stays a kangaroo for a while, and then it becomes a slightly smaller kangaroo. Then, then, then for a couple of days it's sort of a cross between a, a frilled lizard and a common house cat.
[Chevy Chase tries to interrupt him]
Wait wait wait wait. Then it changes back into a smaller kangaroo, and then it goes out like a, like a wild dingo. Now, now, and it's not Australia! Now, now, you'd think it would be Australia, but it's not!
[Chevy Chase tries to interrupt him]
Now look, pal! I know a country where March comes in like an emu and goes out like a tapir. And they don't even know what it means! All right? Now listen, there are nine different countries, where March comes in like a frog, and goes out like a golden retriever. But that- that's not the weird part! No, no, the weird part is, is the frog. The frog- The weird part is-
[has seizure and falls off chair]
- arm warmers
- leg warmers
- tights
- knickers
- skull caps
- beanies
- ear warmers
- winter gloves
I will only permit the use of a Belgian embrocation lotion and a windjacket or windvest. It's time to toughen up and show this weather who's boss. In like a lion and out like a lamb...hey, that reminds me of something. Enjoy!
Chevy Chase:
Last week we made the comment that March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb. Now here to reply is our chief meteorologist, John Belushi, with a seasonal report.
John Belushi:
Thank you Chevy. Well, another winter is almost over and March true to form has come in like a lion, and hopefully will go out like a lamb. At least that's how March works here in the United States. But did you know that March behaves differently in other countries? In Norway, for example, March comes in like a polar bear and goes out like a walrus. Or, take the case of Honduras where March comes in like a lamb and goes out like a salt marsh harvest mouse. Let's compare this to the Maldive Islands where March comes in like a wildebeest and goes out like an ant. A tiny, little ant about this big. [holds thumb and index fingers a small distance apart]
Unlike the Malay Peninsula where March comes in like a worm-eating fernbird and goes out like a worm-eating fernbird. In fact, their whole year is like a worm-eating fernbird. Or consider the Republic of South Africa where March comes in like a lion and goes out like a different lion. Like one has a mane, and one doesn't have a mane. Or in certain parts of South America where March swims in like a sea otter, and then it slithers out like a giant anaconda. There you can buy land real cheap, you know. And there's a country where March hops in like a kangaroo, and stays a kangaroo for a while, and then it becomes a slightly smaller kangaroo. Then, then, then for a couple of days it's sort of a cross between a, a frilled lizard and a common house cat.
[Chevy Chase tries to interrupt him]
Wait wait wait wait. Then it changes back into a smaller kangaroo, and then it goes out like a, like a wild dingo. Now, now, and it's not Australia! Now, now, you'd think it would be Australia, but it's not!
[Chevy Chase tries to interrupt him]
Now look, pal! I know a country where March comes in like an emu and goes out like a tapir. And they don't even know what it means! All right? Now listen, there are nine different countries, where March comes in like a frog, and goes out like a golden retriever. But that- that's not the weird part! No, no, the weird part is, is the frog. The frog- The weird part is-
[has seizure and falls off chair]
Yep, we're in Missouri!
Yesterday, March 22, 2008. Sitting on sugar white sandy beach, warm sunshine, emerald green water, 75 degrees.
Today, March 23, 2008. Parking in my driveway, predominantly brownish green grass, cold, blustery wind, spitting snow, 40 degrees.
Yep, we're home. My tan will be gone before the Tuesday Night Worlds, and I'm already depressed. Waaaa, waaaa, waaaa!!!
Today, March 23, 2008. Parking in my driveway, predominantly brownish green grass, cold, blustery wind, spitting snow, 40 degrees.
Yep, we're home. My tan will be gone before the Tuesday Night Worlds, and I'm already depressed. Waaaa, waaaa, waaaa!!!
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Chillin' and Trainin'
Day 5 of Spring Break and I'm on day three of training. Yeah, I missed the Lost Valley race, but truth be told, I missed none of it. I really don't like the layout and didn't much feel like heading back off-road. Today, was a structured workout of 5x5km time trial intervals and I knocked them silly. I hammered each and every one of them like they were a race.
Now, it's time for the family, friends, and dinner.
See you next week.
Now, it's time for the family, friends, and dinner.
See you next week.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Who You Callin' a Sandbagger??
Last year, I began racing Beginner class in mountain bikes and had three podium finishes in 4 races. While I didn't think anything of it, I certainly heard plenty of 'sandbagger' comments coming from the crowd. This year, I joined the road racing ranks and won my first road race and if it weren't for the fact that everyone had already left when the prizes were handled out, it certainly would have been ripe for another chorus of the term, "sandbagger."
Well, I've hopefully addressed the critics so far this year. In mtb races, I now race Sport class and in the short term, the podium is safe. On the road, I felt much stronger but under USCF rules, I was required to race as a Cat 5. Based on a recent outing and some guidance from members of my team, I appealed the USCF and asked for an upgrade to Cat 4, and was granted my request this past Wednesday.
Well, I've hopefully addressed the critics so far this year. In mtb races, I now race Sport class and in the short term, the podium is safe. On the road, I felt much stronger but under USCF rules, I was required to race as a Cat 5. Based on a recent outing and some guidance from members of my team, I appealed the USCF and asked for an upgrade to Cat 4, and was granted my request this past Wednesday.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Lookit Here Son, I Say Son...
The Tuesday Night World Championships begin this week and last week on our team's message board quite a discussion unfolded in regards to what level I should race. Most of my teammates offered very sound advice. Some even offered "while we're racing coaching" to me and a few of the newer crit racers. As their advice and memories unfolded, Scot Wallace dusted off this mighty pearl of wisdom authored two years ago by none other than Rich Pierce. Rich's idea was for the experience team members to take turns leading the new guys around the course, moving them up through the pack, etc. Basically, try to keep them in the top third most of the race.
As I read the post, I was crying with laughter at 1) the sight of this happening during a race, 2) the possibility of Rich describing this methodology to all of us 5 minutes before we rolled and our ability to remember AND execute it to perfection, and 3) this play being acted out by the cartoon characters I used to watch on Saturday mornings. In fact, here's what I envision when I think of Rich explaining it to the troops:
So without further adieu, I present to you the ICCC First Timers Guide to Crit Racing, or as Rich calls it, "The Pecking Order" :
"The Pecking Order"
The Hen: An experienced strong ICCCer who will lead the newbies near the front
The Chicks: Newbies
The Rooster: A very strong experienced ICCCer who sweeps the rear, looking for chicks to "rescue" and take back up to the front.
The Coyotes: Everyone who wants to scatter the flock
Act 1:
The Hen smoothly stays in the top 1/3 to 1/4 of the pack and the chicks ride with him till they get moved off wheels and start to fall back. No dramatic moves or accelerations. The Rooster hangs at the back, watching all the action.
Act 2:
Speed increases and chaos ensues. The Hen has lost some chicks. Chicks are everywhere throughout the pack. Coyotes are everywhere. Rooster is bringing 2 chicks up to the front, using about 3 laps to do so. When Rooster passes another experienced Hen, he says, "you're the new Rooster." Amazed at the instantaneous gender switch, the new Rooster falls back and patrols the rear. When old Rooster gets up to another hen nearer the front, he passes off the chicks and says, "You're the new Hen!"
Act 3:
The new Hen moves to the front with chicks in tow. Coyotes are scattering everywhere. When New Hen gets to the old Hen, he says, "Go sit on the nest! I am the new Hen!" Old hen sits in, just another chicken now. New Rooster finds some more chicks and starts to lead them up through the pack. He passes off Rooster status to another ICCCer who falls back, sacrificing his race completely. Some chicks are pooped and go off to rest under a bush, away from the coyotes who are still slashing around.
Act 4 - The final Pecking Order:
We are down to "laps". Everybody knows whether there are any chicks still in the pack. if we got them to last an extra 5, 10 minutes, and they gained experience, good. If some are left, and in contention, all remaining chickens gather around them and we hammer as a group. We probably shed some feathers along the way. If anybody is out of the top 20 as they climb the hill, they do not contest the sprint, but stay safe.
Now, a coyote is bad, right??
As I read the post, I was crying with laughter at 1) the sight of this happening during a race, 2) the possibility of Rich describing this methodology to all of us 5 minutes before we rolled and our ability to remember AND execute it to perfection, and 3) this play being acted out by the cartoon characters I used to watch on Saturday mornings. In fact, here's what I envision when I think of Rich explaining it to the troops:
So without further adieu, I present to you the ICCC First Timers Guide to Crit Racing, or as Rich calls it, "The Pecking Order" :
"The Pecking Order"
The Hen: An experienced strong ICCCer who will lead the newbies near the front
The Chicks: Newbies
The Rooster: A very strong experienced ICCCer who sweeps the rear, looking for chicks to "rescue" and take back up to the front.
The Coyotes: Everyone who wants to scatter the flock
Act 1:
The Hen smoothly stays in the top 1/3 to 1/4 of the pack and the chicks ride with him till they get moved off wheels and start to fall back. No dramatic moves or accelerations. The Rooster hangs at the back, watching all the action.
Act 2:
Speed increases and chaos ensues. The Hen has lost some chicks. Chicks are everywhere throughout the pack. Coyotes are everywhere. Rooster is bringing 2 chicks up to the front, using about 3 laps to do so. When Rooster passes another experienced Hen, he says, "you're the new Rooster." Amazed at the instantaneous gender switch, the new Rooster falls back and patrols the rear. When old Rooster gets up to another hen nearer the front, he passes off the chicks and says, "You're the new Hen!"
Act 3:
The new Hen moves to the front with chicks in tow. Coyotes are scattering everywhere. When New Hen gets to the old Hen, he says, "Go sit on the nest! I am the new Hen!" Old hen sits in, just another chicken now. New Rooster finds some more chicks and starts to lead them up through the pack. He passes off Rooster status to another ICCCer who falls back, sacrificing his race completely. Some chicks are pooped and go off to rest under a bush, away from the coyotes who are still slashing around.
Act 4 - The final Pecking Order:
We are down to "laps". Everybody knows whether there are any chicks still in the pack. if we got them to last an extra 5, 10 minutes, and they gained experience, good. If some are left, and in contention, all remaining chickens gather around them and we hammer as a group. We probably shed some feathers along the way. If anybody is out of the top 20 as they climb the hill, they do not contest the sprint, but stay safe.
Now, a coyote is bad, right??
Friday, March 07, 2008
Phat!
I'm now officially under 200 pounds. I weighed in this morning at 197 pounds and have been under 200 for most of this week. With the fluctuations in weight based on water retention, I delayed my joy until today, my rest day.
To give you some frames of reference here are a few heights/weights and waist sizes:
Graduated high school (25 years ago): 32 waist - 165 pounds/6'
Sophomore college: 36 waist - 200 pounds/6'2"
30th birthday: 38 waist - 225 pounds/6'2"
37th birthday: 42 waist - 260 pounds/6'2" (YIKES!!)
40th birthday: 40 waist - 245 pounds/6'2"
November 2007: 38 waist - 223 pounds/6'2"
Today: 34 waist - 197 pounds/6'2"
The other key thing to note here is that I've added considerable muscle in my legs and arms and without that, I think my weight would be a few pounds lower. God has given me a renewed life focus and getting into better shape and trying to be a good example for others is my thanksgiving to Him. It's been a tough journey and I'm not done yet. The last 10-15 pounds may be the hardest, but with God's help, I'll get there.
I also must thank my wife and children for being very encouraging and supportive during this time. My wife is amazing in her efforts to always have healthy food prepared for us and available as the first and second choices in the house. She's also a fantastic role model for me and the kids by working very hard on her exercise regimen. Our children have already started to follow suit by getting on the treadmill or exercising without being prompted by either of us. Thanks be to God for that!
To give you some frames of reference here are a few heights/weights and waist sizes:
Graduated high school (25 years ago): 32 waist - 165 pounds/6'
Sophomore college: 36 waist - 200 pounds/6'2"
30th birthday: 38 waist - 225 pounds/6'2"
37th birthday: 42 waist - 260 pounds/6'2" (YIKES!!)
40th birthday: 40 waist - 245 pounds/6'2"
November 2007: 38 waist - 223 pounds/6'2"
Today: 34 waist - 197 pounds/6'2"
The other key thing to note here is that I've added considerable muscle in my legs and arms and without that, I think my weight would be a few pounds lower. God has given me a renewed life focus and getting into better shape and trying to be a good example for others is my thanksgiving to Him. It's been a tough journey and I'm not done yet. The last 10-15 pounds may be the hardest, but with God's help, I'll get there.
I also must thank my wife and children for being very encouraging and supportive during this time. My wife is amazing in her efforts to always have healthy food prepared for us and available as the first and second choices in the house. She's also a fantastic role model for me and the kids by working very hard on her exercise regimen. Our children have already started to follow suit by getting on the treadmill or exercising without being prompted by either of us. Thanks be to God for that!
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
Can't beat 'em, join 'em!!
Pedaldork, Rusty and his family spent the weekend racing in 80 degree weather. Seems like Rusty and the boys have decided that Mom is a great racer and if they ever want a chance at keeping up with her they had better take up racing themselves. Congratulations to the entire family (yes, even you Rusty) for your accomplishments over the weekend! A strong Christian family who seemingly enjoys life together at every chance they get. I'm glad to see smiles on everyone's faces.
Current Musical Tastes
Right now there are a couple of bands I can't seem to get hear too much. The Foo Fighters and Evanesence. The Foo have been around a few years now, but until their most recent album I never paid them much attention. They were always sort of playing in the background and I lost them in the mix of everything grunge, post-grunge, emo, or alternative rock. I greatly respect Dave Grohl for soldiering on post-Cobain Nirvana and even swapping out the drum kit for a guitar. In my opinion, the Foo Fighters have reached a level of significance most of us would only dream about. The recent album: Echoes, Silence, Patience, and Graceis an album I put on and it feels as comfortable and unpretenious as a pair of faded jeans and a 20 year old sweatshirt. It feels right. Rough and tumble in the right places, but easy and mellow where it counts. The best news of all is that the FF's just announced a July 20th St. Louis concert, so count me in.
Evanesence on the otherhand is a lesson in progress for me. I 'discovered' them after hearing them as a part of 105.7 The Point's rotation. Now, the more I listen to their tracks on Rhapsody, the more entralled I become. Amy Lee's vocals seem to pierce right into your body and resonate in your head for hours. I'm in the process of learning a little more about the band and I have put more and more of their songs onto my mp3. I have already learned that they were often times labeled as a Christian band, but Amy Lee is quite put off by that label claiming that was her co-founder's belief not hers. Nevertheless, I'm hooked and will be blasting through some of their tracks over the next few weeks.
The Countdown Begins
Today, we got 9 inches of snow at the house. Yep, Sunday I was racing in shorts and today I'm walking around the house in jeans, a sweatshirt, and my favorite beanie. As I've lost my fat, I've lost my ability to cope with the cold weather. In fact, I've really grown to dislike it. I bundle up at the first hint of a cool breeze. Let me tell you this old man winter, your days and affect on me are numbered.
Next Thursday, we pack up the new MDX, point it southward, and head for the beach. That's right, Destin Florida awaits. Pleasant coastal breezes, sugar white sand, and the toasty rays of sunshine warming me to my core....and a cool tropical beverage on the off chance my core gets too warm. T-9 days and counting!!
Monday, March 03, 2008
Learning to Suffer
My formal training program is now entering its fourth month. In those four short months, I've lost 23 pounds, added considerable muscle, and conditioned my heart and lungs for some hard efforts on the bike. It's a good thing too, because our first NORBA mountain bike race of the year at St. Joe's State Park required everything a rider had just to finish. The course was up and down for 8 miles and it was full of every bit of terrain you wanted: rocks, roots, climbs, descents, flats, creeks, and mud...in good quantities.
Weather wise, we couldn't have ordered a more perfect day. Warm, sunny, and breezy. The high for the day was somewhere in the high 70's (record-nearing for March 2) but the morning was a little cool. I decided to wear shorts, a s/s jersey, a sleeveless baselayer, and a l/s under armour baselayer. Bad choice on the l/s baselayer. I was perfect for about 20 minutes and then I was a little warm during the climbs. Should have gone with the arm warmers, but being a cold weather sissy, I made the wrong decision. Lesson learned.
In the Sport class, we ended up with 21 racers. As we were called to the line, I took my spot on the front row towards the left and after the roll call we were racing. The uphill start on the paved road was nice, but just as soon as you entered the trail, you were met with two muddy areas. After that the course alternated between great surfaces and muddy bogs. As we sprinted into the race, I was 4th behind two guys from Peoria, and Zak Hafner, my ICCC teammate. Drew Black from Mesa was riding behind me. My heart was beating hard and I was focusing on the starting sections and keeping on the wheel ahead of me. As a part of my warm-ups, I rode the first 1-1 1/2 miles of the course, so I knew what to expect. Unfortunately, coming into one of the muddy right handers, I carried too much speed and washed out in the corner, and just like that a small handful of riders got around my wheel. I was now trying to get back into tempo and stay within sight of the riders as we twisted through the climbs.
Around mile 4, I was settling into my tempo along with a couple of other riders as we hammered through the flat parts of the course. I was just thinking this is the pace that I could ride the remainder of the race and I may be able to pick up some pace on the leaders. Just about that time I was preparing to roll through a double log crossing when I misjudged the distance to the second log and sent myself cartwheeling across the trail. I lay there for a second sort of disoriented, but knowing I had to get up and get rolling. I think I muttered something to the guys behind me that I was fine and quickly checked the bike and began rolling again. I remember feeling like my left leg and back seemed to take the brunt of the impact. As I continued racing, my body confirmed my memory as my back tightened with each pedal stroke and my leg felt as though it was been smacked with a hammer.
As we began climbing, I was passed by a few of the singlespeed guys who were flying. They really had no choice, but I wouldn't have 1-geared that course if you paid me. That was my only cheerful thought of the day. (At least I'm not dealing with the pain of one gear on this course!) I slogged through the uphills and the mud. Most of the mud was laying in the transitions between hills or at the start of the climbs, which really made gearing critical for the day.
As I completed the off-road part of my first lap, I began rolling down the paved road towards the start finish. I was taking inventory of my body thinking my back is killing me, my left thigh hurts like heck, and I'm hot. Maybe this isn't my day and I should just bag it. As I rolled through the starting line, I headed out for my next lap and caught another rider. I got around him and then I was solo again with some time to pray. I prayed to God and asked him to give me the strength to finish. I looked down to my top tube and was immediately focused. "Look to the Lord and his strength; seek His face always." I knew I needed to keep pedaling, for God is my strength and He powered me through the day.
I was actually feeling a little better as I slogged through the course. Team Seagal's finest, Casey Ryback (Matt G) rolled up on me and we chatted for a moment as we crossed into the downhill sections of the course. I let him around me as he was singlespeeding, riding a little stronger overall, and looking for more wrists to snap. I started my creek crossing sections and again lost my focus and balled it up going around a tree and jamming my left thumb. The same thumb I messed up over a month ago. Now, I'm dealing with a tight lower back, bruised left leg, and a gimped up thumb. (A little repayment for avoid last week's carnage, perhaps??)
In my mind I was thinking, okay you lost the fast guys at the start, but you've also held off anyone else from passing you, so perhaps everyone is suffering like mad in this race. About that time, I caught a glimpse of my teammate, Zak up ahead. He was rolling through a muddy section, so I really couldn't tell he had been beaten by the course just yet. As I rolled onto his wheel, I talked with him a little and could tell he was physically worn out. I encouraged him and told him to get on my wheel for the climb. As I rolled to the top of the climb, I looked back to see him only half way up. I couldn't wait for him, so I kept marching forward.
The course was tricky because just when you thought you were done climbing, you were served with another upward tilt of the terrain. I attacked my last uphill and started to feel a lot better than I gutted it out. I cracked onto the final stretch of pavement and looked back to see no one within sight and sped for home. I was NEVER so pleased to cross a line as I was in this race. At the end, I was 14 minutes off the winning time and 8th place out of 21 riders. I'll take that for my debut into the Sport class. Congratulations to my friend, Drew Black, who held on for 2nd place. Well done, Drew. Back to back weeks of 2nd place. Your riding strong already.
I rolled to the car while thanking God for looking after me during another race. I know I mentioned how much more physically fit I am this year, but I have to say I feel more spiritually fit this year, too. I'm immensely thankful for the blessings God has given me and my family. He doesn't owe me anything, but yet day by day I'm amazed at how much He wants to give me and all He wants in return is my love and devotion. AWESOME.
I talked with my coach, Andy, last night and I told him this race helped me in two ways. One it let me know I still have to work very hard, but that I also learned to suffer. Learned to not quit, to deal with setbacks, and to build mental toughness. To take a quote from Ned Overend's book, "Mountain Bike Like a Champion," Attitude is Everything. "Finish each race. Otherwise, you shouldn't bother to go through all the preparation, travel, and expense. Lots of riders quit because they get too far behind the leaders or because the people whom they think they should be beating are beating them. So what? Keep riding. Even if I bonk and have to lie down beside the trail, I get up and finish."
Weather wise, we couldn't have ordered a more perfect day. Warm, sunny, and breezy. The high for the day was somewhere in the high 70's (record-nearing for March 2) but the morning was a little cool. I decided to wear shorts, a s/s jersey, a sleeveless baselayer, and a l/s under armour baselayer. Bad choice on the l/s baselayer. I was perfect for about 20 minutes and then I was a little warm during the climbs. Should have gone with the arm warmers, but being a cold weather sissy, I made the wrong decision. Lesson learned.
In the Sport class, we ended up with 21 racers. As we were called to the line, I took my spot on the front row towards the left and after the roll call we were racing. The uphill start on the paved road was nice, but just as soon as you entered the trail, you were met with two muddy areas. After that the course alternated between great surfaces and muddy bogs. As we sprinted into the race, I was 4th behind two guys from Peoria, and Zak Hafner, my ICCC teammate. Drew Black from Mesa was riding behind me. My heart was beating hard and I was focusing on the starting sections and keeping on the wheel ahead of me. As a part of my warm-ups, I rode the first 1-1 1/2 miles of the course, so I knew what to expect. Unfortunately, coming into one of the muddy right handers, I carried too much speed and washed out in the corner, and just like that a small handful of riders got around my wheel. I was now trying to get back into tempo and stay within sight of the riders as we twisted through the climbs.
Around mile 4, I was settling into my tempo along with a couple of other riders as we hammered through the flat parts of the course. I was just thinking this is the pace that I could ride the remainder of the race and I may be able to pick up some pace on the leaders. Just about that time I was preparing to roll through a double log crossing when I misjudged the distance to the second log and sent myself cartwheeling across the trail. I lay there for a second sort of disoriented, but knowing I had to get up and get rolling. I think I muttered something to the guys behind me that I was fine and quickly checked the bike and began rolling again. I remember feeling like my left leg and back seemed to take the brunt of the impact. As I continued racing, my body confirmed my memory as my back tightened with each pedal stroke and my leg felt as though it was been smacked with a hammer.
As we began climbing, I was passed by a few of the singlespeed guys who were flying. They really had no choice, but I wouldn't have 1-geared that course if you paid me. That was my only cheerful thought of the day. (At least I'm not dealing with the pain of one gear on this course!) I slogged through the uphills and the mud. Most of the mud was laying in the transitions between hills or at the start of the climbs, which really made gearing critical for the day.
As I completed the off-road part of my first lap, I began rolling down the paved road towards the start finish. I was taking inventory of my body thinking my back is killing me, my left thigh hurts like heck, and I'm hot. Maybe this isn't my day and I should just bag it. As I rolled through the starting line, I headed out for my next lap and caught another rider. I got around him and then I was solo again with some time to pray. I prayed to God and asked him to give me the strength to finish. I looked down to my top tube and was immediately focused. "Look to the Lord and his strength; seek His face always." I knew I needed to keep pedaling, for God is my strength and He powered me through the day.
I was actually feeling a little better as I slogged through the course. Team Seagal's finest, Casey Ryback (Matt G) rolled up on me and we chatted for a moment as we crossed into the downhill sections of the course. I let him around me as he was singlespeeding, riding a little stronger overall, and looking for more wrists to snap. I started my creek crossing sections and again lost my focus and balled it up going around a tree and jamming my left thumb. The same thumb I messed up over a month ago. Now, I'm dealing with a tight lower back, bruised left leg, and a gimped up thumb. (A little repayment for avoid last week's carnage, perhaps??)
In my mind I was thinking, okay you lost the fast guys at the start, but you've also held off anyone else from passing you, so perhaps everyone is suffering like mad in this race. About that time, I caught a glimpse of my teammate, Zak up ahead. He was rolling through a muddy section, so I really couldn't tell he had been beaten by the course just yet. As I rolled onto his wheel, I talked with him a little and could tell he was physically worn out. I encouraged him and told him to get on my wheel for the climb. As I rolled to the top of the climb, I looked back to see him only half way up. I couldn't wait for him, so I kept marching forward.
The course was tricky because just when you thought you were done climbing, you were served with another upward tilt of the terrain. I attacked my last uphill and started to feel a lot better than I gutted it out. I cracked onto the final stretch of pavement and looked back to see no one within sight and sped for home. I was NEVER so pleased to cross a line as I was in this race. At the end, I was 14 minutes off the winning time and 8th place out of 21 riders. I'll take that for my debut into the Sport class. Congratulations to my friend, Drew Black, who held on for 2nd place. Well done, Drew. Back to back weeks of 2nd place. Your riding strong already.
I rolled to the car while thanking God for looking after me during another race. I know I mentioned how much more physically fit I am this year, but I have to say I feel more spiritually fit this year, too. I'm immensely thankful for the blessings God has given me and my family. He doesn't owe me anything, but yet day by day I'm amazed at how much He wants to give me and all He wants in return is my love and devotion. AWESOME.
I talked with my coach, Andy, last night and I told him this race helped me in two ways. One it let me know I still have to work very hard, but that I also learned to suffer. Learned to not quit, to deal with setbacks, and to build mental toughness. To take a quote from Ned Overend's book, "Mountain Bike Like a Champion," Attitude is Everything. "Finish each race. Otherwise, you shouldn't bother to go through all the preparation, travel, and expense. Lots of riders quit because they get too far behind the leaders or because the people whom they think they should be beating are beating them. So what? Keep riding. Even if I bonk and have to lie down beside the trail, I get up and finish."
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Pwned!!
The current day "medieval torture device." Tonight, Mr. Kinetic strung me out like clothes on a line, and I loved every minute of it. Well, maybe not every minute of it, but I do understand that training hard requires suffering and acclimating your body to the pain and discomfort that forces other people to stop pedaling and give up. It's easy to say your going to work through the pain, but much harder to actually do it. I'm trying to work through the threshold. Now I know what Pfoodman (http://www.theralphaccount.blogspot.com) meant when he once told me he never wanted his fitness to get below the level wherein he'd have to repeat the base required to compete at higher racing levels.
Sunday is done and in the books and means absolutely nothing when I get back on the bike. The next race isn't handicapped by our past results.
Race Prep
Last week, I started a new process of taping a bible verse to my bike for inspiration during a race. Here's the verse I included last week:
Isaiah 40:31
but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.
I put my trust in the Lord and prayed before the race for safety and courage to ride with my best efforts and the Lord blessed me. I prayed immediately after crossing the line as thanksgiving to Him and for safety and healing of the riders involved in the crashes.
This week's verse is:
1 Chronicles 16:11
Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always.
Isaiah 40:31
but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.
I put my trust in the Lord and prayed before the race for safety and courage to ride with my best efforts and the Lord blessed me. I prayed immediately after crossing the line as thanksgiving to Him and for safety and healing of the riders involved in the crashes.
This week's verse is:
1 Chronicles 16:11
Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always.
Monday, February 25, 2008
It's All Downhill From Here!
The morning was cold and the roads were wet.
The course was prepped, the field was set.
Along we rolled as the nerves were high,
90+ riders battling thigh to thigh.
Bottles were dropped as the pave was rough
but the banging of brakes, enough is ENOUGH!
Most of the experience and speed came to the front
oh to ride tempo and race safely is but a want.
Hold back the reigns but keep the pace slightly high
while planning my strategy as the miles roll by.
Before long there's a crash within shot of my ear
re-alerting my senses that danger is near.
I look for my friends and they are in sight
cranking and biding their time 'til it's right.
I want to move up but Aggro say's not yet
we've got a ways to go before the table is set.
Back in the fold, as more wheels we did suck
dodging the potholes and wishing for luck.
The tarmac tilted upward as the tempo grew swift
right as the lactic acid arrived and asked for a lift.
A climber I'm not, but the hills should be brief
keep hammering your legs and wait for relief.
As our group neared our 'summit' I almost got gapped
but when I looked back their elastic had snapped.
No one on our wheels our group was now fifteen
roaring through the final miles as a 30-legged machine.
We were cruising along like a train with a caboose
as one rider sprinted free and then all hell broke loose.
Within 1 mile now and the school was in sight
as someone yelled out "slow riders on the right!"
The chaos was beginning as battle lines were drawn
as this was not to be a finish missed by a yawn.
Drew found an opening and took off like a jet
Getting on his wheel would be my best bet.
We burst for the line four riders in mass
I was there first, as my competitor I did pass!
The Cat 5 40+ winner was most certainly me
but two other riders made me number three.
As we sorted out the results I suddenly learned
that my elapsed time was the fastest one turned.
The Lord blessed me and kept me for that I know
and I give all honor to Him and thanks as I go.
http://www.ultramaxtri.com/results/08_Froze_Toes/08_Froze_Toes_Bike_Race.pdf
Thanks to everyone who has helped me prepare for the new season. Especially my wife and kids for letting me train as much as I have. Thank you. You're very special to me.
We're off to a good season, but let's just hope it's not all downhill from here!
The course was prepped, the field was set.
Along we rolled as the nerves were high,
90+ riders battling thigh to thigh.
Bottles were dropped as the pave was rough
but the banging of brakes, enough is ENOUGH!
Most of the experience and speed came to the front
oh to ride tempo and race safely is but a want.
Hold back the reigns but keep the pace slightly high
while planning my strategy as the miles roll by.
Before long there's a crash within shot of my ear
re-alerting my senses that danger is near.
I look for my friends and they are in sight
cranking and biding their time 'til it's right.
I want to move up but Aggro say's not yet
we've got a ways to go before the table is set.
Back in the fold, as more wheels we did suck
dodging the potholes and wishing for luck.
The tarmac tilted upward as the tempo grew swift
right as the lactic acid arrived and asked for a lift.
A climber I'm not, but the hills should be brief
keep hammering your legs and wait for relief.
As our group neared our 'summit' I almost got gapped
but when I looked back their elastic had snapped.
No one on our wheels our group was now fifteen
roaring through the final miles as a 30-legged machine.
We were cruising along like a train with a caboose
as one rider sprinted free and then all hell broke loose.
Within 1 mile now and the school was in sight
as someone yelled out "slow riders on the right!"
The chaos was beginning as battle lines were drawn
as this was not to be a finish missed by a yawn.
Drew found an opening and took off like a jet
Getting on his wheel would be my best bet.
We burst for the line four riders in mass
I was there first, as my competitor I did pass!
The Cat 5 40+ winner was most certainly me
but two other riders made me number three.
As we sorted out the results I suddenly learned
that my elapsed time was the fastest one turned.
The Lord blessed me and kept me for that I know
and I give all honor to Him and thanks as I go.
http://www.ultramaxtri.com/results/08_Froze_Toes/08_Froze_Toes_Bike_Race.pdf
Thanks to everyone who has helped me prepare for the new season. Especially my wife and kids for letting me train as much as I have. Thank you. You're very special to me.
We're off to a good season, but let's just hope it's not all downhill from here!
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Monday, February 18, 2008
Feeling Strong?
Check out my buddy, Scott Thompson's new blog http://www.ultrascott.blogspot.com
If Scott ever asks you out for a ride or a run, it may be a good idea to pack a change of clothes because you could be gone a while. Don't worry, the conversations will be so enjoyable the time will pass quickly. He's one guy who doesn't leave anything on the table and I love the times I get to ride with him. Unfortunately, it's not often enough.
If Scott ever asks you out for a ride or a run, it may be a good idea to pack a change of clothes because you could be gone a while. Don't worry, the conversations will be so enjoyable the time will pass quickly. He's one guy who doesn't leave anything on the table and I love the times I get to ride with him. Unfortunately, it's not often enough.
An Unfair Advantage???
If you know me, you know I'm a sucker for bike bling. Mall-cruising, credit-card laden, rich-people-wanna-be teenagers have nothing on me. If it catches my eye, it's going to end up on one of my bikes. Some of my acquisitions help, most don't. Some cost a lot of money, others are throw-aways. However, on Sunday, I fixed my mind on something new.
Listening to our Pastor's sermon on Sunday I was convicted by the simple message being communicated to our congregation. Trust God. Why? His power is immeasurable and His grace is unbelievable. He can be the source of your renewal. Our strength. As I let these thoughts seep into my thick brain, I felt like God can be a source of power for me in my times of weakness while I'm on the bike. I decided I was going to take a short bible verse and tape it to my top tube during every race this year. God's words will be my new racing bling for this year. In Him I will trust and in Him I will renew my strength.
Here's the verse for this weekend's race:
Isaiah 40:31
but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.
Listening to our Pastor's sermon on Sunday I was convicted by the simple message being communicated to our congregation. Trust God. Why? His power is immeasurable and His grace is unbelievable. He can be the source of your renewal. Our strength. As I let these thoughts seep into my thick brain, I felt like God can be a source of power for me in my times of weakness while I'm on the bike. I decided I was going to take a short bible verse and tape it to my top tube during every race this year. God's words will be my new racing bling for this year. In Him I will trust and in Him I will renew my strength.
Here's the verse for this weekend's race:
Isaiah 40:31
but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Plus ca change, plus c'est la meme change
Another week of training, working, and family life. What's to say? My work life is good, my family is healthy, and training was light this week. With the exception of Thursday's rest day, I trained everyday albeit they were easy days. However, the easy workouts are coming to a close. Beginning with yesterday's workout which included a 30 min time trial, I'm beginning a period of a higher volume/intensity training marked with my first road race on Sunday, February 24th and my first sport class mountain bike race the following weekend.
While I'm certainly looking forward to the races, I've got to say I'm a little disappointed by my TT results yesterday. I went out with the mental image of riding like Mr. Cancellara
but ended up riding more like this chap
I had hoped for a faster average speed, but it just didn't happen. I'm not going to share my speed with you, but let's just say you wouldn't be too impressed. I'm not really looking for excuses, but rather trying to understand what happened. Was it the wind? The cold weather? The multiple layers of clothing? Not enought rest? Didn't eat right? Drink properly? Go out too hard? Not hard enough?
I'll talk with Andy and evaluate where I'm at. I guess I'm not trying to be fast right now, so I'll take what comes. One a side note, one positive out of yesterday is that the new Giant TCR Composite road bike felt awesome. I've made a few tweaks to the set-up and I think I've got it dialed in just right. The bike is light (16.85 pounds), stiff, but comfortable and compliant. So Lance, perhaps you're right, "It's not about the bike!"
While I'm certainly looking forward to the races, I've got to say I'm a little disappointed by my TT results yesterday. I went out with the mental image of riding like Mr. Cancellara
but ended up riding more like this chap
I had hoped for a faster average speed, but it just didn't happen. I'm not going to share my speed with you, but let's just say you wouldn't be too impressed. I'm not really looking for excuses, but rather trying to understand what happened. Was it the wind? The cold weather? The multiple layers of clothing? Not enought rest? Didn't eat right? Drink properly? Go out too hard? Not hard enough?
I'll talk with Andy and evaluate where I'm at. I guess I'm not trying to be fast right now, so I'll take what comes. One a side note, one positive out of yesterday is that the new Giant TCR Composite road bike felt awesome. I've made a few tweaks to the set-up and I think I've got it dialed in just right. The bike is light (16.85 pounds), stiff, but comfortable and compliant. So Lance, perhaps you're right, "It's not about the bike!"
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Covered Bridge Ride (aka Lessons in Humility)
We came, we saw, we conquered.
Kent, Rich, and I (later joined by Bert) took on the famed Covered Bridge ride on Saturday. I had heard stories of the famed ride and in fact lived many, many years ago in the general vicinity of the legendary route, but never turned a pedal onto it's tarmac until yesterday. The day started rather benignly as we rolled from the Paradise Valley floor towards High Ridge. As you can see from the elevation map, those aren't just subdivision or town monikers, but rather aptly named geographic formations. The climb from the valley is a long drawn out climb which doesn't punish you all at once, but slowly extracts it's pain in the form of lactic acid. On this ride, it's not the only climb to do so.
As we got into High Ridge, we began working a series of rollers which were either good for taking at a solid cadence or on the attack. Nothing too severe, but again, more taxing efforts for your legs (catching a theme here?) Kent told me we'd only have 3 stop lights on the ride and we'd already passed 2 of them, so the traffic was light and the scenery was nothing short of amazing. Say what you want about the majesty of the mountains or the beauty of an ocean sunset, but the rolling terrain of Missouri always captures my heart. The heavily wooded countryside, open fields, meandering waterways, and brilliant blue skies let me know this countryside will always be my home.
Riding with Kent and Rich, and me for that matter, there is never a shortage of friendly attacks or jumps to keep the pace from getting too mundane. Early in the ride, I was feeling good, was comfortable on the climbs, so I decided to do a little work at the front. What I didn't know was the terrain to come. Kent and Rich were licking their chops and preparing themselves for the homeward bound climbs. We rolled into Covered Bridge and decided to take a quick break to refuel and answer nature's call. Rich simply couldn't get enough fuel, so even when asked to pose for a picture, kept his chocolate Hammer gel flowing.
Here's Kent and Rich discuss life and it's issues in the shadows of our destination, the Covered Bridge.
After a little refueling, it was time to begin climbing. Now, I'm not making excuses, but I've never been a big fan of stopping during longer rides. I guess it's due to the fact that I warm-up slowly and once I cool back down slightly, I don't feel comfortable on the bike again for 30 minutes or so. Well, that's a bad recipe for what laid before me. As you roll out of Goldman (thriving metropolis which is home to the Covered Bridge) you immediately begin your ascent to the heavens. Over the next 20 miles, you're greeted with seemingly endless climbs. I did okay on the first long climb, but I could feel my left calf cramping ever so slightly. As we neared the top, I eased off a little and tried to stretch out my legs while on the bike.
Rolling down the very fast descent of Old Lemay Ferry Road, we hit a short section of flatter pavement and Kent decided to drop the hammer and when the pace shot north of 30mph, Rich and I decided we'd save a little for the next climb. Kent was flying up the road (later he added that was his plan for being able to take the steep upcoming climb at his pace.) It really didn't matter because the next climb (in Antonia as we crossed Highway M) blew all three of us up pretty good. We looked like climbers strung out across the face of Mt. Everest making our assault on the summit. I cursed my aching legs and back and for the first time in a long, long time actually gave a thought to stopping and walking up the hill. This hill had my number and it was punching it without mercy. I felt like I was pedalling sandbags, as my legs swelled with lactic acid. At one point, I decided to downshift, stand on the pedals and then upshift trying to ease my cadence with a little pain induced speed. This climb makes you suffer and suffer I did.
As we got to the top and turned onto Four Ridge Road, I recall thinking to myself, "well the tough climbs are over, so get into a good cadence and take this ride home." Nice thought, but I couldn't seem to clear my legs of the lactic acid. They continued to feel heavy and when we picked up another ICCC rider, Bert, the pace quickened. I immediately sat-up. We were 2h45m into the ride with another 30-45 mins to go and I thought the downhills won't come soon enough. I wasn't bonking, but my legs were not responding. Rich ended up sitting up and waiting for me and brought me back to the others. Thanks, Rich!
We made one final pit stop in High Ridge where it turns out we saw riders from several other teams rolling through. Here a couple of the Dent Wizards are taking a break from the outbound climbs. Bert, who joined up with up later in the ride is on the left.
After topping off the fuel, we pacelined very quickly down back down to the valley floor. We were rocking and rolling and since there was little to no traffic around us, we were using every square inch of our lane of pavement. This was by far the most enjoyable part of the ride as the pace was quick, my legs were responding, and we all seemed to be having fun. As we neared the bottom of a very fast downhill section, I was following Kent through a sharp corner when we discovered some golf ball sized rocks in the middle of the lane, I barely caught the edge of one and was amazed I didn't end up wadded up on the side of the road. Following the corner, Kent and Bert immediately jumped and at first I decided to let them go, but then decided to chase. I caught up with them and then kept pouring it on. I felt great and was actually going to come around them, but thought we had a little farther to go and eased off. As we rounded the bend fifteen seconds later, I realize we were back near our starting point.
All in all, it was a great ride. Good Christian fellowship and healthy doses of humility and suffering. I'm starting to look forward to my weekend thrashings at the hands of stronger riders. Each week I'm reminded of how far I've progressed but just how much farther the road leads outward and upward. I appreciate the opportunity to ride in those groups and thank each one of them for their teaching, guidance, and support.
Romans 5:3 "Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perserverance."
Thursday, February 07, 2008
Sheldon Brown
Sheldon Brown 1944-2008
Sheldon Brown passed away on February 3rd. If you've ever searched the internet for obscure bike related parts or to get answers on how to calculate 'gear inches' you've encountered Sheldon Brown's Harris Cyclery website. I'm sure Sheldon's insights have helped more people than I could ever imagine. I know on more than one occassion I've used Sheldon for both parts and enlightenment.
May God's comfort and grace hold Sheldon's family and friend's as they mourn their loss and may Sheldon find eternal rest in God's love.
Sheldon Brown passed away on February 3rd. If you've ever searched the internet for obscure bike related parts or to get answers on how to calculate 'gear inches' you've encountered Sheldon Brown's Harris Cyclery website. I'm sure Sheldon's insights have helped more people than I could ever imagine. I know on more than one occassion I've used Sheldon for both parts and enlightenment.
May God's comfort and grace hold Sheldon's family and friend's as they mourn their loss and may Sheldon find eternal rest in God's love.
Best of the Bowl
In my humble opinion the big ad agencies were beaten at their own game. This Doritos commercial was funnier than anything else I saw and I'd suspect a whole lot cheaper to produce. What's not to like? A cheesy product so good a life-sized rodent would resort to physical harm to get more!
But I guess in the interest of fairness, I'd have to say my second favorite commercial was done in support of Bridgestone tires.
This one was funny on a couple of levels. First, the sight of Alice Cooper and the python in the middle of the night (highlighted by his 'eyes of darkness'). However, the driver's reaction at the sight of Richard Simmons was nothing short of brilliant. Well done.
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
Intervals & Donuts
Intervals. Is there a cyclist out there who looks forward to interval workout day? I don't. Must be the fight or flight response internally wired into our bodies. I can always hear the little voice from the dark recesses of my brain having an argument with my muscles.
Brain: "You are going to do these because they make us faster."
Muscles: "If you like pain so much, why don't you commit yourself."
Brain: "I am commited."
Muscles: "No, you're not. You don't understand commitment. You're like the chicken, not the pig, when it comes to breakfast. You see, the chicken is involved, but the pig is committed!"
(Why do I hear the voices of Cartman and Kyle from South Park reading those lines??? Man, I'm glad today is a rest day!)
Last night was 'cruise interval' night. 90mins on the trainer with 4 x 6min intervals done between heart rate zone 4-5a with 2 minute recoveries. During each 6 minute interval, alternate 60 secs in a hard gear and 60 seconds in a 'normal' gear while maintaining a constant cadence. I had a good workout. My legs really opened up as the intervals went on and I actually contemplated adding on another interval. Shut up, stupid brain.
As I cooled down, I started a DVD I had loaded in before my workout, "Tour de Donut: Gluttons for Punishment." .www.tourdedonutmovie.com
A documentary by Steve Kelly & Jim Klenn of Tim Ranek and crew's attempt to win Staunton's farcical adaptation of the Tour de France. What a trip! I was laughing out loud at several elements of the event. I've seen the movie before, but it has been a year or so. I think the most outrageously funny part of the movie is the scene of Tim getting ready to blow chunks with a donut still firmly held in one of his hands.
Ride (and eat) until you puke...well, 50% of that statement could be similar to interval training.
Brain: "You are going to do these because they make us faster."
Muscles: "If you like pain so much, why don't you commit yourself."
Brain: "I am commited."
Muscles: "No, you're not. You don't understand commitment. You're like the chicken, not the pig, when it comes to breakfast. You see, the chicken is involved, but the pig is committed!"
(Why do I hear the voices of Cartman and Kyle from South Park reading those lines??? Man, I'm glad today is a rest day!)
Last night was 'cruise interval' night. 90mins on the trainer with 4 x 6min intervals done between heart rate zone 4-5a with 2 minute recoveries. During each 6 minute interval, alternate 60 secs in a hard gear and 60 seconds in a 'normal' gear while maintaining a constant cadence. I had a good workout. My legs really opened up as the intervals went on and I actually contemplated adding on another interval. Shut up, stupid brain.
As I cooled down, I started a DVD I had loaded in before my workout, "Tour de Donut: Gluttons for Punishment." .www.tourdedonutmovie.com
A documentary by Steve Kelly & Jim Klenn of Tim Ranek and crew's attempt to win Staunton's farcical adaptation of the Tour de France. What a trip! I was laughing out loud at several elements of the event. I've seen the movie before, but it has been a year or so. I think the most outrageously funny part of the movie is the scene of Tim getting ready to blow chunks with a donut still firmly held in one of his hands.Ride (and eat) until you puke...well, 50% of that statement could be similar to interval training.
Monday, February 04, 2008
Does this describe you???
"I'm never the first one to do a breakaway but I'm always the first to try and catch the break."
A fellow bike racer shared this phrase with me today. It immediately resonated with me. Maybe there's a little porch hound dog in all of us. Laying out on the porch just protecting the turf until some enticing bumper rolls by....and the chase begins!!
A fellow bike racer shared this phrase with me today. It immediately resonated with me. Maybe there's a little porch hound dog in all of us. Laying out on the porch just protecting the turf until some enticing bumper rolls by....and the chase begins!!
Be Careful Who You Listen To!
Following a business discussion with someone at work today, I was told to not lose any more weight. The reason? My face would look too gaunt. While I thanked the person for noticing, I asked why do you think my face will become too thin? Her response was sort of matter of fact, "well if you try to lose too much weight your face will get too thin and that doesn't look good." I was puzzled by that statement. In fact, it really made no sense to me. (Suffice it to say, I know I need to lose another 10-15 pounds. Diminishing as it is, a spare tire doesn't lie.) I know she didn't mean any harm by her statement, but her I wondered how many people don't take the right steps because of bad advice.
As I thought about her advice, I recalled having a document filed away somewhere which was filled with all sorts of 'bad calls.' After much searching, I found the document and have posted some of them for your reading pleasure. Some of them just leave you scratching your head. Enjoy!
"Stocks have reached what looks like a permanently high plateau."
-- Irving Fisher, Professor of Economics, Yale University, 1929
"I think there is a world market for maybe five computers."
-- Thomas Watson, chairman of IBM, 1943
"There is no reason anyone would want a computer in their home."
-- Ken Olson, president CEO and founder of Digital Equipment Corp, 1977
"This 'telephone' has too many shortcomings to be seriously considered as a means of communication. The device is inherently of no value to us."
-- Western Union internal memo, 1876.
"The concept is interesting and well-formed, but in order to earn better than a 'C', the idea must be feasible."
-- A Yale University management professor in response to Fred Smith's paper proposing reliable overnight delivery service. (Smith went on to found Federal Express Corp.)
"We don't like their sound, and guitar music is on the way out."
-- Decca Recording Co. rejecting the Beatles, 1962.
"So we went to Atari and said, 'Hey, we've got this amazing thing, even built with some of your parts, and what do you think about funding us? Or we'll give it to you. We just want to do it. Pay our salary, we'll come work for you.' And they said, 'No.' So then we went to Hewlett- Packard, and they said, 'Hey, we don't need you. You haven't got through college yet.'"
-- Apple Computer Inc. founder Steve Jobs on attempts to get Atari and HP interested in his and Steve Wozniak's personal computer.
"Drill for oil? You mean drill into the ground to try and find oil? You're crazy."
-- Drillers who Edwin L. Drake tried to enlist to his project to drill for oil in 1859.
"Airplanes are interesting toys but of no military value."
-- Marechal Ferdinand Foch, Professor of Strategy, Ecole Superieure de Guerre.
"Everything that can be invented has been invented."
-- Charles H. Duell, Commissioner, U.S. Office of Patents, 1899.
"The abdomen, the chest, and the brain will forever be shut from the intrusion of the wise and humane surgeon".
-- Sir John Eric Ericksen, British surgeon, appointed Surgeon- Extraordinary to Queen Victoria 1873.
"640K ought to be enough for anybody."
-- Bill Gates, 1981.
As I thought about her advice, I recalled having a document filed away somewhere which was filled with all sorts of 'bad calls.' After much searching, I found the document and have posted some of them for your reading pleasure. Some of them just leave you scratching your head. Enjoy!
"Stocks have reached what looks like a permanently high plateau."
-- Irving Fisher, Professor of Economics, Yale University, 1929
"I think there is a world market for maybe five computers."
-- Thomas Watson, chairman of IBM, 1943
"There is no reason anyone would want a computer in their home."
-- Ken Olson, president CEO and founder of Digital Equipment Corp, 1977
"This 'telephone' has too many shortcomings to be seriously considered as a means of communication. The device is inherently of no value to us."
-- Western Union internal memo, 1876.
"The concept is interesting and well-formed, but in order to earn better than a 'C', the idea must be feasible."
-- A Yale University management professor in response to Fred Smith's paper proposing reliable overnight delivery service. (Smith went on to found Federal Express Corp.)
"We don't like their sound, and guitar music is on the way out."
-- Decca Recording Co. rejecting the Beatles, 1962.
"So we went to Atari and said, 'Hey, we've got this amazing thing, even built with some of your parts, and what do you think about funding us? Or we'll give it to you. We just want to do it. Pay our salary, we'll come work for you.' And they said, 'No.' So then we went to Hewlett- Packard, and they said, 'Hey, we don't need you. You haven't got through college yet.'"
-- Apple Computer Inc. founder Steve Jobs on attempts to get Atari and HP interested in his and Steve Wozniak's personal computer.
"Drill for oil? You mean drill into the ground to try and find oil? You're crazy."
-- Drillers who Edwin L. Drake tried to enlist to his project to drill for oil in 1859.
"Airplanes are interesting toys but of no military value."
-- Marechal Ferdinand Foch, Professor of Strategy, Ecole Superieure de Guerre.
"Everything that can be invented has been invented."
-- Charles H. Duell, Commissioner, U.S. Office of Patents, 1899.
"The abdomen, the chest, and the brain will forever be shut from the intrusion of the wise and humane surgeon".
-- Sir John Eric Ericksen, British surgeon, appointed Surgeon- Extraordinary to Queen Victoria 1873.
"640K ought to be enough for anybody."
-- Bill Gates, 1981.
Saturday, February 02, 2008
2008 Tour de Fenton
After Thursday night's snowfall, I had a choice to make.
Option A:
My thoughts of Option A:
The option of getting outside the house was the clear winner. Teammates, Kent Johnson, Theo VandeVelde, and Rich Pierce
all met at 9am this morning while the temperature was still below freezing for a little fun on the bikes. Three of us decided on cross bikes, while Rich brought the 29er with cross tires. He can keep that bike rolling, too. Reminder for me, however is that the next time I head out with some Cat 3 dudes, I need to get my head around what's fun to them could be a tougher ride for me. Actually, the ride was exactly that, fun. Yes, it was tough in places, but overall it was a very good workout.
We rolled the roads towards Lone Elk park by taking an off-road bypass to route ourselves under the highway. The roads were fine and extra volume from the cross tires was nice for comfort's sake, but certainly made for tougher pedaling at tempo. We worked our way down to Chubb and practiced our snow-covered trail riding skills.
At the first railroad crossing we determined we were overdressed and stopped to adjust our layers.
The view down the tracks was something to behold for sure.
Riding the snowpacked trails was quite difficult. In fact, considerably more difficult than I had imagined. It's as if you're climbing a never ending hill on marbles. We found the best riding was through the virgin snowfall, but on the trail it was hard to find. Climbing was truly a feat and most of the steep stuff left us walking.
We continued to roll the roads for the next park, Buder, and from there we'd head towards George Winter Park and the climbs back to our cars. All in all, it was a great day and much more enjoyable than being shackled to the trainer.
Tomorrow, will definitely be back outside.
Option A:
My thoughts of Option A:
The option of getting outside the house was the clear winner. Teammates, Kent Johnson, Theo VandeVelde, and Rich Pierce
all met at 9am this morning while the temperature was still below freezing for a little fun on the bikes. Three of us decided on cross bikes, while Rich brought the 29er with cross tires. He can keep that bike rolling, too. Reminder for me, however is that the next time I head out with some Cat 3 dudes, I need to get my head around what's fun to them could be a tougher ride for me. Actually, the ride was exactly that, fun. Yes, it was tough in places, but overall it was a very good workout.
We rolled the roads towards Lone Elk park by taking an off-road bypass to route ourselves under the highway. The roads were fine and extra volume from the cross tires was nice for comfort's sake, but certainly made for tougher pedaling at tempo. We worked our way down to Chubb and practiced our snow-covered trail riding skills.
At the first railroad crossing we determined we were overdressed and stopped to adjust our layers.
The view down the tracks was something to behold for sure.
Riding the snowpacked trails was quite difficult. In fact, considerably more difficult than I had imagined. It's as if you're climbing a never ending hill on marbles. We found the best riding was through the virgin snowfall, but on the trail it was hard to find. Climbing was truly a feat and most of the steep stuff left us walking.
We continued to roll the roads for the next park, Buder, and from there we'd head towards George Winter Park and the climbs back to our cars. All in all, it was a great day and much more enjoyable than being shackled to the trainer.
Tomorrow, will definitely be back outside.
Friday, February 01, 2008
It's not nice to fool Mother Nature
Look, I'm not trying to fool Mother Nature. It's not like I presented her with some emulsion of saturated fat and tried to pawn it off as sweet creamy butter. And who believes Mother Nature is the vindictive type? Isn't Mother Nature required to operate with some degree of benevolence? Surely, she knew I (as well as everyone else) was scheduled for some long rides this coming weekend. However, with 8+ inches of snow on the ground what are we supposed to do now? Mountain bike in the snow? Cyclocross bike on the roads? Cross country ski? Snowboard? Snowshoe? Snowmobile? Dog sled?
Wait, what about spending 6 hours on the trainer???
Ahh, the trainer. I've been told there's always a headwind on the trainer and that 'headwind' builds mental toughness. I guess I can buy into that logic, but hasn't everyone else (except Bugman) been shackled to a trainer during the crappy weather? So the fact that we're ALL building mental toughness means one thing, the races are going to be filled with mentally-twisted, overly-zealous, pave craved riders breaking away with every turn of the pedal. Sounds like fun to me.
So, I submit to you. Will sledding with the kids be a sufficient surrogate for a high quality 3 hour bike workout? What if I book-end each workout with a Mardi Gras and Super Bowl party? Now that's a training program no coach can argue with! Until he reads my blog, that is.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Get Trashed and Give Trash
CAUTION: THIS IS A RANT!
I'm getting a little tired of the local teenagers having a drinking party while mom and dad are gone from the house and then disposing of their evidence on the shoulders of our local roadways. I see it almost daily as I'm out on the bike and it makes me shake my head in disbelief. What's up? Can't find a trash can somewhere else? Then they add insult to injury by tossing their White Castle, Steak and Shake, or Taco Bell bags out a few hundred feet later. I'd love to find one of those single roadside shoes laying around somewhere and kick the offenders right in the butt with it. UUUUUGH!
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Carbon emissions offset??
Here's the new road bike I'll attempt to race this year. It's the first really nice road bike I've ever owned. I'm shocked by the lightness and stiffness of this bike. I've ridden it for a few hours and it's awesome. I can't wait to get it out for some serious rides. Thanks to the The Cyclery in Edwardsville for the awesome deal and for Mark at Ballwin Cycles for getting the bike dialed in for me.
It came in right around 17# and right now. The bars, stem, and wheels are a little on the heavy side, similar to their pilot. I could easily have the bike coming in right at 16.5# without too much problem, but at my size it ain't going to be the extra bike weight that holds this bike back.
The frame and components are:
Giant TCR Composite frame - large
Dura Ace rear derailleur/cassette (12-25)/brakes/shifters
FSA Carbon Pro crankset (50-36)
FSA front derailleur (compact specific)
Thomson Elite layback seatpost
FSA OS170 stem / FSA Wing Pro alloy bars
Fizik Arione saddle
Chris King hubs 28f/32r / Mavic Open pro rims
Connex 908 chain
Schwalbe Ultremo tires
Speedplay Zero pedals
Bontrager Race Lite bottle cages
Monday, January 28, 2008
But seriously, I'm fine
Yes, I've been a little under the weather. We're now drawing to a day 8 of my annual chest cold to a close. I know the drill. Hacking and coughing in the morning with a repeat performance at bedtime for the nocturnal crowd. As I often do during times of sickness and recovery, I have relegated myself to our finished basement so as not to wake the entire house. I don't know if it helps the family, but no one else has taken ill and they haven't failed to put a place setting out for my dinner. I guess I'm still part of the family.
My wife snapped this picture of me during one of my recovery sessions the other day. I think I look a little younger, she seems to think I've lost a little weight. Yes, I have lost weight. Now, I know I'm no poster boy for the model set, but I have had a couple of people tell me over the past couple of weeks that I was looking too thin. In fact one person thought I was sick. Now, what does that say about our American-ized mental state when folks think I look too thin???
Before you read any further, I WARNED YOU!!!
Speaking of thin, http://www.theralphaccount.blogspot.com posted up quite a pic on his blog this past weekend. Dear heavens man, you gotta give fair warning before doing that. The movie, Scared Straight comes to mind.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
2008 Race Schedule
MTB RACES
March 2, 2008 - St. Joes State Park, Farmington, MO
May 10, 2008 - Castlewood State Park, St. Louis, MO
June 1 , 2008 - Matson Hill, Defiance, MO
August 17, 2008 - Cape Race, Cape Girardeau, MO
September 7, 2008 - Greensfelder, Eureka, MO
September 21, 2008- Chubb TT, St. Louis, MO
October 15 2008 - Spanish Lake, Spanish Lake, MO
ROAD RACES
February 24, 2008 - Froze Toes, Columbia, MO
March 29, 2008 - Hillsboro-Roubaix, Hillsboro, IL
ENDURANCE (and other possible) RACES
October??? - Burnin' at the Bluff
Sep 28 - Tall Oak 6 hour - Jefferson City, MO
Nov 2 - OZ Epic - Lake Ozark, MO
March 2, 2008 - St. Joes State Park, Farmington, MO
May 10, 2008 - Castlewood State Park, St. Louis, MO
June 1 , 2008 - Matson Hill, Defiance, MO
August 17, 2008 - Cape Race, Cape Girardeau, MO
September 7, 2008 - Greensfelder, Eureka, MO
September 21, 2008- Chubb TT, St. Louis, MO
October 15 2008 - Spanish Lake, Spanish Lake, MO
ROAD RACES
February 24, 2008 - Froze Toes, Columbia, MO
March 29, 2008 - Hillsboro-Roubaix, Hillsboro, IL
ENDURANCE (and other possible) RACES
October??? - Burnin' at the Bluff
Sep 28 - Tall Oak 6 hour - Jefferson City, MO
Nov 2 - OZ Epic - Lake Ozark, MO
Good to Great
Some of you may have read Jim Collins' book, "Good to Great." Jim was in town last week to speak at, or should I say talk VERY passionately at, our annual partner's meeting. Jim has agreed to begin working more closely with our firm (Edward Jones) and he offered many challenges to consider as we grow over the next 25 years. However, as Jim stated principles for transforming our business from Good to Great, I found myself thinking about how an individual does the same in the athletic arena.
Here are some of Jim's comments. See if they conjure up similar athletic thoughts for you. Please keep in mind 'great' or 'greatness' is a relative term. Please understand, I'm not suggesting that I am a great bike racer by any means, but I do aspire to 'get better.'
1. Building greatness is a cumulative process. It's organic. There are no quick fixes. There is virtually no point in time when you can say "that's when greatness broke through."
2. A key psychology for moving from good to great is the Stockdale Paradox (so named after Admiral Stockdale and his beliefs during captivity in a prisoner of war camp): Retain absolute faith that you can and will prevail in the end, regardless of difficulties AND at the same time confront the brutal facts of your current reality.
3. No matter how dramatic the end result, good to great transformation never happened in one fell swoop. There was no single defining action, no grand program, no one killer innovation, no solitary lucky break, no miracle moment.
4. Sustainable transformations follow a predictable pattern of build-up and breakthrough. Like pushing a giant flywheel, it takes a lot of effort to get it moving at all. But with persistent pushing in a constant direction over a long period of time, the flywheel builds momentum, eventually hitting a period of breakthrough.
5. Good is the enemy of great.
6. Greatness is a function of choice and discipline.
7. The moment you think of yourself as great, you're not.
Here are some of Jim's comments. See if they conjure up similar athletic thoughts for you. Please keep in mind 'great' or 'greatness' is a relative term. Please understand, I'm not suggesting that I am a great bike racer by any means, but I do aspire to 'get better.'
1. Building greatness is a cumulative process. It's organic. There are no quick fixes. There is virtually no point in time when you can say "that's when greatness broke through."
2. A key psychology for moving from good to great is the Stockdale Paradox (so named after Admiral Stockdale and his beliefs during captivity in a prisoner of war camp): Retain absolute faith that you can and will prevail in the end, regardless of difficulties AND at the same time confront the brutal facts of your current reality.
3. No matter how dramatic the end result, good to great transformation never happened in one fell swoop. There was no single defining action, no grand program, no one killer innovation, no solitary lucky break, no miracle moment.
4. Sustainable transformations follow a predictable pattern of build-up and breakthrough. Like pushing a giant flywheel, it takes a lot of effort to get it moving at all. But with persistent pushing in a constant direction over a long period of time, the flywheel builds momentum, eventually hitting a period of breakthrough.
5. Good is the enemy of great.
6. Greatness is a function of choice and discipline.
7. The moment you think of yourself as great, you're not.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Like a Rented Mule...or Donkey...or ....
You may be wondering why I've posted a picture of a sleeping donkey. Per Wikipedia, the donkey is also known as equus asinus or ass. Well, the picture is a reference to me and my "donkey" is exhausted. I'm spent. Instead of haulin' "donkey" on the bike, I seem to be dragging lately. Truth is, it's been getting worse since Sunday evening.
I've been on the bike or doing workouts since last Monday and this past Monday, it started to hit me, a sense of exhaustion. Now, if you're sitting there thinking "man, Boz's coach must be brutal. I'll bet he's got him doing all kinds of super secret East German style workouts!" you're wrong. I'm simply doing what every other person is doing and that's building strength and base miles into my body. If I had to pick a culprit, I'd say it was a general lack of good sleep.
Saturday was a very long day for me and I think that was the tipping point for my body. I only got 3 1/2 - 4 hours of sleep Friday night and then spent the the first part of the day with a couple of good Christian men repairing a house in the city. I spent the better part of 2-3 hours climbing up and down a ladder while doing carpentry work for a leaking window. Then I went home and jumped onto the bike for 2-3 hours which included approximately 1 hour of interval work. Later that night, we attended a trivia night with some friends. I got to bed around midnight and was back up at 7am the next morning to face another very full day.
Sunday evening while pedalling back towards the house after 2 hours on the bike, I began feeling tired. I remember thinking the last little climb which is 3 miles from my house can't come soon enough. However, last night was the final page in the book for me. While trying to do a workout on the trainer where I was supposed to do 4-5 6min intervals with my heart rate in zone 3, I couldn't get my heart rate past zone 2. It's a weird feeling too. Your legs feel fine and nothing hurts on your body, but when my brain calls for more your body doesn't answer. Your willpower is there but your body doesn't want to cooperate.
I decided there was no sense in fighting it and got off the bike after 20 minutes. I got ready for bed and went to sleep sometime before 9pm. I slept until 515am and that's pretty good for me. I guess I need the rest, so I'm going to eat smart, keep the fluids up, and try to stay off my feet for as long as I can. Maybe Aggro's right, I am getting older.
I'll rest up and file this one in the back of my mind as something to draw on when the going really gets tough. Training is not only to get your body in shape, but also your mind. You've got to know when you're simply aching a little vs. when you're body simply won't respond. Now I know a little more and that will become an advantage to me.
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
Similar passions???
Anthony Bourdain is the chef turned author turned traveler turned celebrity. Well, you could argue his celebrity, but he's got a TV show and let's face it most of the readers of this blog don't, so he should be a celebrity by our admissions. If you don't know who Anthony is, you should read any of his books, Kitchen Confidential, The Nasty Bits, A Cook's Tour or you can tune into his show "No Reservations" on Monday nights at 9pm Central on the Travel Channel.
Anthony's sharp wit, wry, self-effacing sense of humor is music to my ears. He has a love, no make that a passion, for original foods, as well as a complete disdain for the mass produced slop so prevalent in our world. He's part rock star, part food critic, part chef, part traveler, but mainly a guy you'd want to drink a few beers with while eating a well prepared choucroute garnie, cassoulet, or steak and frites.
Anthony is the executive chef of Les Halles on Park Ave in NYC. While he doesn't spend much time in the kitchen anymore, it's still his home base. Les Halles is one of my favorite restaurants on the planet. Why? Darn good food. French brasserie food which includes all three of the items I mentioned earlier. Our family ate there last week and the meal was over the top. I had the choucroute garnie which reminded me of growing up. Pork in three different versions with sauerkraut and potatoes. The best steak and frites this side of Paris and a chocolate/banana dessert that quite literally was the best dessert I have ever eaten.
I'm digressing. The t-shirt is a shirt Anthony designed and wears occassionally on the show. The notion of "Cook Free or Die" is something Anthony feels summarizes his feelings and love for the preparation of food. In other words, don't be generic when you could make it much more. I guess it's similar to my passion for the bike. Pedal and put your best effort into it or don't. Check out Mr. Bourdain, I think you'll like what you see.
And by the way, you can buy the shirt at www.grillbitch.com. The website is a reference to the 'affectionate' name Anthony has for his former executive assistant, Beth. If you want to know more, check out the website or better yet, read Kitchen Confidential.
Second chances
There was a post today on our local bicycling forum which got me thinking. The author of the post in question was suggesting if you're a doper (cheater) and you get caught, you're out. You've earned (perhaps stole) your money (while keeping a legitimate rider out of the peloton) and you can't come back.
Instead of launching into a posting war, I decided I'd post MY thoughts on MY blog. If you do or do not agree with MY opinion, I'm cool with that. My two cents.
I, as do many others, believe in practicing forgiveness and grace. I think the David Millar approach (I doped, I took my suspension, I am now riding clean, and I am fighting for a clean sport) teaches a very human lesson and one I'm proud to talk about with my children. We are humans, we are imperfect, and we don't always make the right decision. When we don't make the right decisions, our mistakes may be judged by others as "avoidable" or "calculated decisions on our part," in which case we "should have known better."
I am human, I make mistakes, and I stumble in my practicing forgiveness and grace. What is my true north when I find my mental, spiritual, or moral compass out of whack? I try to remember this short Bible verse. It's from Romans 3:23, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Whatever the reasons are for our mistakes, ill-fated deeds, transgressions, or sins our response is to take responsibility without excuse, accept the consequences, learn from your mistake, and begin a path of 'righteousness'. Turn away from the sin. Easier said than done. But our objective nevertheless.
For David Millar and others to admit their wrongdoings, get their own lives and bodies back on track, and take an active role to help clean up the sport is not depressing to me at all. In fact, I find it to be a gift to the sport. I'd suggest it may be exactly what we need if we're going to help flush the dope out of cycling. Perpetuating an environment wherein the riders (both dopers and dope-free) continue to live in a world where admission of wrongdoing is career-ending won't speed up the cleansing process. In fact, it will do the exact opposite.
I'm not suggesting we coddle the dopers, pat them on the back, and not feel a sense of betrayal. There's no doubt the sport needs to be cleaned up. Better enforcement, better testing standards, more civil rights, fewer epic stages, the list goes on and on. Eliminating everyone who ever doped seems a bit extreme to me.
Maybe I'm wrong. If I'm wrong, I'll admit it without excuse, I'll accept the consequences, learn from my mistakes, and pursue a path of righteousness. In short, I'll expect a second chance.
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
Sleep is overrated!
I'm back into one of my sleeping funks. I've never been a good sleeper, though. I guess I feel there are too many other things I'd rather do than sleep. Live life would be one of them. However, at 2 or 3 in the morning how much life is there to live? I think my body is getting back at me for forcing it to sleep so much while we were in NY on vacation. One of the only places I can ever sleep late is in a hotel room. Something about those room darkening curtains and the cavelike atmosphere. Am I really more of a neanderthal than I suspected? Perhaps.
Well, I've channel surfed my 800 channels of cable and can't find anything to watch. Maybe my sleep problems aren't rooted in a desire to live life. Maybe, just maybe, the culprit is a little mean streak of ADD that rears its head from time to time.
I do know that I've done just about everything there is to do with little or no sleep. I know that I've never called in sick because I missed out on a little REM. Give me a couple hours of sleep, some caffeine, and I'm rejuvenated and ready to tackle the world. It's worked for the better part of 40+ years, why try to figure it out now?
Well, I've channel surfed my 800 channels of cable and can't find anything to watch. Maybe my sleep problems aren't rooted in a desire to live life. Maybe, just maybe, the culprit is a little mean streak of ADD that rears its head from time to time.
I do know that I've done just about everything there is to do with little or no sleep. I know that I've never called in sick because I missed out on a little REM. Give me a couple hours of sleep, some caffeine, and I'm rejuvenated and ready to tackle the world. It's worked for the better part of 40+ years, why try to figure it out now?
WRONG-O
I predicted the Highway 40 shutdown was going to produce problems just short of global warming and the end of western civilization. So far, it's produced nothing but a big yawn! That's good and I was wrong. There, I've admitted it and we'll now move onto more important things like global warming and the end of western civilization.
Thursday, January 03, 2008
Gunnar is SOLD!!!
Power of advertising....and a killer price!!!!
Soon the stable of bikes will be down to:
Redline Conquest 'cross bike
Niner One 9 singlespeed mtb
Gunnar Rockhound geared mtb...going to 'give' to my sister-in-law's husband
Giant TCR Composite Road bike
Giant s/s commuter bike
Intense Spider 29er f/s mtb
Each bike has a special purpose and gets ridden often. 5 bikes is down from the high of 9 bikes at one time. What can I say, I'm a sucker for all things bike related.
Soon the stable of bikes will be down to:
Redline Conquest 'cross bike
Niner One 9 singlespeed mtb
Gunnar Rockhound geared mtb...going to 'give' to my sister-in-law's husband
Giant TCR Composite Road bike
Giant s/s commuter bike
Intense Spider 29er f/s mtb
Each bike has a special purpose and gets ridden often. 5 bikes is down from the high of 9 bikes at one time. What can I say, I'm a sucker for all things bike related.
Tuesday, January 01, 2008
Gunnar Sport - 62cm - For Sale
I ordered and built up this bike last year when I was doing the brevet series. I only rode the bike on 1 300km ride and then a couple of 75-100 mile rides. It's been hanging in the shop ever since. I no longer need this bike as I'm racing mtb and road.
More info and specs can be found at
I will include the following items which were purchased new in April 2007:
2007 - 62cm Gunnar Sport frame - Charcoal with black letters - 3rd bottle mount under downtube (msrp $750)
Red 1 1/8" Chris King threadless headset/spacers (msrp $125)
Shimano Long Reach brakeset - Ultegra level brakes (msrp $160)
IRM Mosaic 57 carbon fork (msrp $200)
(2) Winwood red carbon cages (msrp $100)
The bike is in immaculate condition. I would like to get $650 for the bike and the items listed plus actual costs of shipping.
Email me at craig.basler@charter.net
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