Chicago Cubs

In St. Louis it's always been popular to 'hate' the Cubbies. I guess being a fan of baseball, I love all teams who've pulled for their the fans in regardless of their post-season prowess. Besides, the Cards and Cubs rivalry is one of the oldest in baseball and it's as good today as it's ever been. Having said that, you just have to chuckle at some of the Cubbie jokes that have circulated for years. Here a sample of a few:


How do you stop a red hot Cubs team???
Wait until the end of June.

**************

What does a bear on the pill and the World Series have in common?
No Cubs.

**************

A man was at Wrigley Field watching a Cubs game, when he called a security officer over and said, 'Those people are bothering me.' The security officer looked around him at all the well-behaved spectators and said 'Who, sir?' Wearily, the man pointed out to the Cubs players on the field and said 'Them'.

**************

What's the difference between the Cubs and tissue paper?
The Cubs fold easier.

**************

A little boy is walking down the street one day and finds a genie jar. He opens it and out comes a genie.

Genie: I'll give you three wishes.

Boy: I wish for an XBOX 360, and a PSP and....peace in the middle east.

Genie: Where is the middle east little boy?

The boy pull out a map and shows him where the middle east is.

Genie: Uhm, I dont think I can do that little boy. Do you have another wish?

Boy: Well, could you make the Cubs win the World Series?

The genie pauses and then says:

Genie: Lemme see that map of the middle east again.

Training and Training...for what?

I'm on the tail end of a stretch of 13 day stretch of training and racing. The legs are starting to respond less and less and I'm certainly feeling it throughout the rest of my body. Over the next two days, I'm going to get another 5 hours of effort in and then begin a little recovery week in preparation for the Castlewood mtb race on 5/10. The race will be the first time I've been back on a mountain bike (for any reason) since the St. Joe's race back on March 2nd.

I'm enjoying the road bike quite a bit right now and based on how I do at the 'Wood will determine whether or not I commit to the rest of the mtb season or shift my focus over to the roads. I really enjoyed the TT and I'm enjoying the crits, as well. The weird issue on the crits is that there is such a steep learning curve for me. The races aren't necessarily about who's the fastest. They are much more about strategy and positioning than I ever realized. That appeals to my problem solving mentality so much more than the mtb races ever did. Yes, they may be easier than a mtb race (based on duration and effort) but I'm amazed at how the races unfold and how experience will trump power almost every time.

The biggest problem will be this. Bob Arnold and the DRJ-ers are hosting the C'Wood race again and I know I'll have a blast. After the race, I'm sure I'll rekindle the love I have for the mountain bike and make the decision that much more difficult. That is, if there is a decision to be made. Stay tuned. Perhaps I'll know. Bugman raced a mountain bike last year and I made a commitment to try road racing in return. What did he know when he offered the challenge???

Catching Up

Last week was a hard training week which culminated in 2 days and 3 races. This was my multi-day, multi-race weekend and I've got to say, it's a little taxing on the body and mind. The races were 'C' priority races for me and coming into the weekend, I had just completed a really focused and strong effort on the bike. In the prior week, I included a 30 min TT, crit sprints, and hill intervals, so my legs certainly weren't rested.

I was optimistic for the weekend and took it as an opportunity to see how my body would respond to the increased loads. Surprisingly enough, Saturday went well. During the crit I rode strong, at the front on a few occasions, and even brought the field back up to catch a rider who had gone off the front. As I made that move to bridge the field up (was never intending to bridge up in an attempt to make it a two man break) one of my team mates immediately responded with, "go Boz, I'll block for you." Saturday's race also gave me my closest glimpse at life during a crash. I was very slightly caught up in a big crash in the first turn. I saw everything going on in slow motion and while I did my best to steer clear of it, I began running out of room as the portable fence barricades pinned me in. After taking an extremely quick inventory of myself and my bike, I was left with a handful of riders who had suffered no damage and were forced to race to catch the back of the pack. Bridge on we did, but the effort took just a little bit out of my 'bank account' for the weekend. The rest of the race unfolded well, and at the final lap I was at the front with 3 other team mates, but our acceleration was timed a little early and we were caught by the masses at the end. Fine with me, we are starting to ride well together and we're having fun doing it.

Saturday's TT went as expected. I had hoped to post a time of 22mins or less and I posted a time of 21:46. That was good enough for 12th in the Cat 4's. I caught my 2 minute man (had a ghost rider as my 1 minute man) by the 5th mile and was chugging for home when I felt a twinge in my left hip flexor. That caused me to shift gears a little in an attempt to work out what I thought was the start of a cramp. About 1 1/2 miles from the finish, I was able to bring the speed back up and I finished strong. Overall, I was pleased with my effort.

Sunday's crit was fun, but very tough for me. I never really felt good the entire race. I had warmed-up on the trainer with the guys from our team, but once we got on the course, I never felt comfortable. I moved around the pack looking for the right lines (I'd never ridden the course before) and once I had my feel for it, I settled in. The race was to be 35 mins + 5 laps. At the 25 min mark, the final prime bell was rung and it was also about the time that I wanted to start sliding towards the front. As we arrived on the backside of the course, I found myself on the front of the pack and decided to slow the pace down a little. That worked for 1/4 a lap and then a team mate, Todd Harris, came up with 2 or 3 other riders. As I felt a little recovered at that point, I simply mentioned to him that I was on his wheel. We were 4th wheel at this point and Todd decided to ride me to the front in the final corner and turn me loose.
As I left Todd's wheel I was on top of the gear pretty good and decided to give it a go. I knew I had at least 1-2 other riders on my wheel but kept spinning madly. As I neared the line and decided to stand and sprint, my left hip flexor again signaled enough and I responded in submission. I was beaten at the line by 1/2 bike by Ryan Michaels. He rode the sprint to perfection and deserved to win it. After that, I was spent and my leg was sore. I soft pedaled as the pack caught us and then fought to stay on. I bridged back up once with the help of a team mate, Mike McKee, but just couldn't maintain tempo. I bagged the results, but finished the race as I hate to quit. I did 3 solo laps with another rider and finished as the latern rouge runner-up.

Overall, the weekend was fun and a great effort for me. I learned a lot more and was humbled at the same time. God has blessed me with gifts that I'm trying to use wisely and a fantastic group of racers who are extremely helpful to me. I'm proud to wear their colors and hope I do nothing but bring glory to God and to them.

The Price of Speed

Can you buy speed? I don't mean the street slang term for amphetamines, but rather miles per hour? Yes, yes, you can.

Here's my new TT bike. I went with a Leader LD-735TT frame and carbon fork. Total price of the frame, full carbon fork, and headset was $600. I decided on this route, as I didn't want to put a ton of money into a TT frame in the event I didn't use it a lot. I'd also read up on the Leader frames and for the money, they seemed like a great deal. The bike is outfitted with a combination of parts from my trainer bike and miscellaneous parts from around my workshop. The only new parts on the bike are the Profile Design T2 cobra aero bars, a Profile Design Razor aero seatpost, and the Mavic Cosmic Carbone SL wheels. Fully equipped as you see it here, the bike weighs 20.4 lbs. The key is that the rotational weight is low and the right parts are aero shaped.

I took the bike out the last few days and it fits me really well. I had Dave Schindler at FitPro dial in the aero position for me and I think he did a fine job. My first two rides on the bike were less than ideal and the post-fit ride was darn near perfect. No pain in the neck, back, or shoulders, and I felt like I was in a powerful position the entire time.

I chose Mavic Cosmic Carbone SL's for TT wheels because they can also double as crit and road race wheels. They really maintain the pace once up to speed and from everything I've been told by people, they are a darn durable wheelset. (Thanks for the deal Mark and Cody at Ballwin Cycles.)

So how did it perform compared to my standard road bike in a 30 min TT? My mph average over the 30 minutes increased by 2.5mph. (And that was with me being sick, too.)

What's Worse?

The Paris-Roubaix was held on April 13th but wasn't being shown on Versus until today. I did everything I could to avoid learning who won, what happened, how was the weather, everything. I succeeded. I knew nothing, I mean nothing about the outcome. However, to make things worse, I also knew nothing about when it was coming on Versus today. I assumed it was coming on at 4pm today. WRONG-O. As my luck would have it, coverage started at 2pm and I turned on the TV just in time to see the last 3 minutes of wrap-up.

Is stupidity a valid excuse?

Feels a little bit like battling your way back onto the lead group only to have them make another acceleration and drop you as reward for your effort.

I Can Only Imagine

I've written before how I am putting a Bible verse on my bike during races as my way of glorifying and thanking God for the gifts and talents he has blessed me with. In my last race, I didn't put a verse on my bike. Instead, I carried the funeral program for Hank Murphy, the brother of a friend of ours, in my back jersey pocket. On the bottom of the program was a simple quote from Hank, "I am blessed, and highly favored."

Hank passed away on April 3rd after a lingering battle with cancer. I only had the pleasure of meeting Hank a couple of times. Our family is very good friends with his brother's family we've come to learn Hank was a very strong Christian man, as well as a loving husband and father. At Hank's service, his pastor (from the Dallas area) spoke of Hank's servanthood to God and his many blessings in the lives of others. Later, in the service, they showed a photo/video montage of Hank's life while the song, "I Can Only Imagine" by MercyMe played in the background. As I watched and cried, I decided I would race in honor of Hank and thank God for the blessing he gave us in Hank.

While it would have been glorious (and very Hollywood-ish) to come across the line way ahead of the pack and hold the program high and praise God and Hank, but it didn't work out that way. My result in the race wasn't an important outcome this time. Seeing the lasting works of Hank and the lives he touched was. I felt humbled. Hank knew even in his darkest moments God would bless him and shine His glorious light on him. Hank was a beacon for Christ to all of us who knew him.

I know Hank is blessed, and highly favored and that's the greatest victory of all.

Tilles Park

First official crit is in the books. I raced the 4/5's race and from the folks I know in the race there appeared to be more 4's than 5's in the race. Not really sure how many were in the pack, but I'd guess somewhere around 50???

Overall a good race for me. I went to the front several times and actually led a few laps. Won 1 prime, too. My official finishing spot was 16th, but the officials had problems with the finishing line camera and failed to catch the numbers of several riders. I actually thought I was around 10th, but since I couldn't recall the riders around me (I guess a sprint finish does that) I didn't feel right taking the 10th place spot. When I got home, I talked with my wife and she said she thought I finished 10th and a couple of people around her (from my team) thought the same. Oh well, that's racing and it's in the books. I feel better knowing I had a great race and was mixing the field up whenever I could.

The prime lap was funny to me. Bill Howells and I were rounding the corner before the back straighaway and he looked over and said, "I really don't like Red Bull, it's yours." I laughed and said "I'll split it with you" and dropped the hammer. Bill is such a strong rider and I always enjoy seeing that lime green Specialized of his. Don't ever paint that thing man!

Overall, our ICCC team rode a strong race. We had 5 guys in the 4/5 race and our goal was to get someone (namely Scot Wallace or Jim Moore) launched off the front and then block like mad. As it turns out, we got Mike McKee off the front on one lap and then Rich Pierce, Scot, and Jim were blocking up the front. I was recovering midpack and trying to work my way to the front again, when Mike and the guy he was with started to slow. The field accelerated and the sight of the riders and soon enough they were back in the fold.

I'd say it was a fun day for all. It was awesome having my wife, Jennifer, and my kids, Kelsey and Collin, there cheering me on in spite of the chilly 42 degree weather. I'm sure they would have rather been sitting in a warm house instead of watch me play around on a bike. Next race for me will be the Tour of St. Louis on 4/26 & 4/27. If those races go well, you may not see too much of me off-road this year. I'm really enjoying the road right now and it seems to suit my body a little more. I'll be at Castlewood on 5/10 and will make my final assessment based on that race.

Yours truly winning a prime.


Greg Lyeki from Trek on the lead.


Rich Pierce, Jim Moore, and me taking care of business.


Rich Pierce and Scot Wallace keeping the pace high.


Me (left of center) and Jim Moore (right of center) mixing it up at the front.

I Pledge (Part Deux)

Last month, I pledged to no longer wear my winter clothes as a gesture of solidarity with Spring and Summer. Winter, I no longer acknowledge your existence! This weekend's forecast:



So at the race, I'll be the guy in the shorts shivering and turning a rosy hue of rare tuna. Jacket, perhaps. Qoleum #3 Extra Hot embrocation? You betcha!! Time to start acting like a man!

Betcha Won't Eat That

Last night our family headed out to JJ Twigs for some pizza and family time. For our dinner, we ordered a Bacon Cheeseburger pizza and a Grilled Chicken and Mushroom pizza. The Bacon CB pizza was advertised with the special JJ Twigs sauce, bacon, hamburger, onions, dill pickle slices, cheddar and mozzarella cheese. After it was baked, they were to add shredded lettuce and tomatoes. My son and I thought that would be a decent pizza, so we ordered it sans the lettuce and tomatoes. (It's a little to much meat for me, but I figured I'd give it a go.)

We were having a great time talking and catching up with each other's week. As the NCAA men's basketball was now complete it was time to discuss the winner's prize of our family pool. My wife, Jennifer, won in a tiebreaker over my son by guessing the score of the final game. Mind you, the objective was to be the closest to the total points for the final game. My wife hit the tally on the nose. Her prize, a foot massage to be delivered by me and my son. As we discussed the foot massage, my son reminded her that foot is singular and feet is plural, so she still needed to determine which FOOT was getting massaged. (We think he has the right skillset to become an attorney or worse yet, a politician.)

During my attempt to weasel my way out of the bet, my wife commented that she didn't want me to just write a check to a spa. I began seeking other alternatives when I spied one of my daughter's remaining chicken tender appetizers along with the ranch dip. I quickly asked if the massage would be waived if I were to eat the chicken dipped in the ranch dip. As they laughed and piled on conditions for the bet, the deal was struck and I was eye to eye with a ranch dip coated chicken tender. Let me just stop right here and say that I H-A-T-E dips, dressings, mayos, mustards, and anything else that resembles any of the above. I could tell this would be a big deal for me and them.....but I chickened out. I couldn't get past the smell of the dip. I'm a weenie.

Now the pizza arrives. Looks awesome, it's hot, smells great. I grab a piece of the CB pizza, take a big bite, and frown. Maybe it's the tang of the pickles?? No, it's too tangy to my taste buds. I think to myself, that tastes a lot like yellow mustard. Weird. I take another bike. Bingo! Yellow mustard. And I'm thinking is this some cruel joke to get me for the failure to eat the chicken? I call the waiter over and he says, yeah, it's got mustard on it. I ask, what a part of the description on the menu? He says, absolutely, but let me bring you a menu. Here is their menu description:

"Made with our own Special Sauce, hamburger, crispy bacon, onions, Cheddar & Mozzarella Cheeses and dill pickle chips. Topped off with lettuce and fresh Roma tomatoes. Tastes just like a cheeseburger!" Dang. Why didn't that register with me? Long story short, they made us a new one with the regular tomato based sauce and it was great. Again, a little too much meat on it for my tastes, but it really did remind you of a burger. Actually, it reminded you a little of a white castle.

Overall, it was a great meal and we laughed a lot. Good Times!

A Good Ride

Yesterday called for 2 hours of easy spinning. The weather was still cooperating, so I gave Mark Ewers a call and arranged a 4pm start time in the valley. The plan was to ride along the new Monarch Levee trail and then head over for a few 'Kaspar loops' on the business park side of the valley. If you're wondering what the Kaspar loops are, read this blog courtesy of a buddy, Pfoodman. (Did I just break the record for the most hyperlinks in a single paragraph??)

Surprisingly, the weather cooperated for the entire ride. With the exception of freshening winds, we were able to complete 2 hours of riding and even get in a few spirited efforts (making up for my shortened workout from Tuesday night.) As we did the 'Kaspar' loops, we would take turns pulling into the wind. As we rolled around we got to talk a lot and catch up on things. I got to ask a lot of questions about wattages, TT bikes, and training while Mark obliged me and answered all of them with his polite, friendly manner.

In all my training efforts this year, I haven't had too many rides like last night's. The perfect combination of effort, mileage, weather, and companionship. A Good Ride!

I'm Fine, Really

Thanks for all the cards and letters, but I'm fine. Yes, I know you're concerned that I've done myself serious harm, but really, I'm great. No, I didn't do any serious trauma to my head. It's nothing. I'm wearing this:



Now, I can safely dress as fast as I want and not personally endanger myself. Go back to worrying about whether or not folks are wearing their helmets while riding on the streets, or drinking from water bottles found along the side of the road, or whether or not shopping center developers hate cyclists (even though they may sponsor their teams!!) I'm fine, really.

Sometimes LIFE Gets in the Way

of training that is. I've had a bad week from a training perspective. Too much life and too little training. My reason for missing my workout on Friday withstanding, I've enjoyed all the family reasons for missing some workouts this week. Spending more time with my wife and kids isn't something I'm going to ever regret.

Friday night, however, I missed a workout because I banged my thick skull into the side of a rather large dresser and darn near knocked myself out. I got home late from work and was quickly getting dressed to ride. The plan was to ride out past St. Albans and meet up with my wife and kids at her sister's house for a birthday party. However, as I smacked my noggin' on the corner of the cabinet, my plans quickly shifted to remaining upright as little, imaginary birdies began circling my brain while my knees buckled. Yeah, I've taken a few shots to the head while crashing on the mountain bike, but this one was a doozie. My head did split, but luckily, it wasn't anything more than a small cut. After an ice-pack and three Tylenols, I managed to drive my suv to the party and get through the night with a dull headaches and a knot on the side of my head. My wife said she was going to wake me every 2 hours Friday night to check on me, but she fell asleep. So did I.

Saturday, I made a late decision to take on the Covered Bridge ride. Kent Jones had asked if anyone from our team wanted to ride and I decided at 7am that morning that I would. Due to my late decision I tackled the ride solo. After a foggy and extremely chilly start, I think I evened the score to 1-1 with Saturday's effort. I definitely climbed much better than last time. I even added in one hill climb to the route for good measure (Tishimingo to Old 21). That route is addicting if you've never done it. Of course, it's an epic route from a climbing standpoint, but it's also epic in the traffic flow, lack of traffic lights, and the scenery. My heavens some of the early spring scenes were something. Also, I think there are 3 lights in the 50+ miles of riding. I averaged around 18mph, which I'll take on that route anytime.

Sunday, I was planning to spin for 1-2 hours in the flats, but my wife made a suggestion to try to get Cardinals tickets and take the kids to a game. How many times in St. Louis do we get a cloudless, 70 degree day for a 1:15pm game? I used StubHub (very easily, I might add) and we were sitting at the game following a morning at church. What a great day and a Cards shutout to boot!

Finally, when we got home from the game, the Tour of Flanders was coming on Versus. The Ronde de Vlaanderen is my favorite race of the year, so I settled onto the couch and watched all but the last 6km before we headed up to church for our small group evenings. Afterwards, we watched the final 6km's on Tivo and what a finish!! A Belgian wins!!

Last One Out Gets the Check

You've all seen the scene in the movies. Some guy is walking down the street completely unaware of the calamity taking place behind him. Soon people are running past him at a speedy clip and he's wondering what the heck is going on. Quickly enough he turns around to see two things. One, no one else is left behind him and two, he's on death's doorstep. Well that appropriately sums up my performance at last night's Tuesday Night Worlds, B race.

My less than stellar performance should have been expected. I stood around on my feet all day Saturday, put in a strong TT on Sunday, didn't sleep at all Monday night. As a result my race was a little more than an experience in pedalling really fast while my lungs staged a sit-down strike. Seriously, it was good experience. I learned some more things about racing crits and namely, where I can attack on that course. I didn't sit in the back all night and I actually put my nose within the front 5-7 riders once late in the race, so all wasn't lost.

Funniest part was when I talked with my wife afterwards the first words out of her mouth were the truest. "Well, you're not going to do well everytime you race." True that. Perhaps the Lord sent me a good message last night. You see, the verse I placed on my bike last night was Ephesians 6:10, "Finally, be strong in the Lord and his mighty power." Maybe that was a little insight into how I was feeling and where my true power is and will be.

It's all a part of racing and I'm learning and loving ever minute of it.

Someone's Gonna Pay

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.

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.
"">

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!

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."

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]

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!!!

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.

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.

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??

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!

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!!

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."

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.

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!

End of Story

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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.

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.

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!"

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."

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.

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.

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.

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!!

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.

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.

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.