In Germany, the holiday tradition of St. Nikolaus is where children out a shoe on December 5th and if they were good would receive a treat from St. Nikolaus. Often times the treat would be small (had to fit in a kids shoe afterall); but if you were not so good, you would recieve switches. These switches were a signal that St. Nikolaus knew you weren't being good. For me it was a signal to get my acttogether before Santa found out.
This past week, I planned a ride for sometime this weekend. It had been a while and I really needed to get back in the saddle. It was decided that Sunday morning would the best time to go. Terri got to do some things on Saturday so Sunday worked out better.
It has been cold in the mornings lately and I knew that riding this morning would be no different. I planned to wear the long sleeve jersey, full finger gloves, my vest, and ear covering headband. No problem. What i hadn't planned for was last night's rain. Well, either it rained last night or some jerk wet all the roads that I rode this morning. I think it rained. It didn't rain on me while I rode; at least not from the sky. The spray from my tires was enough to seem like it was raining from below. My back had a very nice "skunk stripe" from the dirty water coming off my rear wheel. It was 43 degrees when I left and I was plenty warm in the gear I had on...Until I really started going. The spray from the road was heavy at times and in 43 degress moving at 20mph...You can do the math for the wind chill. Overall it was a good ride today. Only about 30miles in 1:40:06. I averaged 17.5mph and didn't have any incidents.
One new thing for my ride is an application I found for my phone. It's called "BiMActive" and it's free. What it does is use the GPS in my phone to calculate my ride info. It was accurate within 1 mile or so to my bike computer and the speed was a little off. What is cool about it is that it syncs up to a website and one can track all their training there. I will rely on my bike computer for cycling; but if I'm going for a walk with the kids or riding scooters with them, it would be cool to know how far we've gone.
I'm really likeing the route I did today too. I rode all the way up Lindsay to McDowell and over to Power back to the house. Lindsay is probably my favoride North/South road in the east valley. The traffic is light, the road is smooth, and the bike lane is frre of debris. What more could you ask for?
So back to St. Nikolaus, what he left in my shoe this morning was a lot of cold & wet. When I got home. I couldn'r feel my toes. I thought to myself as cars were next to me at traffic lights and the driver sipped coffee. "Yeah, but this is fun"!
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Monday, November 23, 2009
Cave Creek Bike Festival
Back on November 15th, I participated in the 1st annual Cave creek Bicycle Festival. This event included a 20 mile MTB race, a 50 mile & 35 mile "discovery" ride. I chose the 50 mile ride. I'm working up to riding a century and figured this would be good training. Besides, It has been many years since doing any organized event.
I awoke on the 15th early not because I was so excited about the ride, but because I slept like crap that night. Every couple hours I woke up (after getting to bed late). Anywhoo, I staged all my gear by the front door so I'll I'd need to grab was my water and coffee. The ride started at 8 and it's an easy hour north of here so I headed out at 0515. I arrived in Cave Creek in the dark and searched for the "tell tale" start/finish line. Once I found where the event was, I parked across from a VFW post. At the VFW, an American flag was blowing in in the wind. I couldn't help but notice, it was almost sticking straight out. Not only was it windy, it was a COLD wind. My car read about 52 degrees. I figured that this wind would probably factor into my ride. I walked over to the Flat Tire Bike Shop and signed in. I got my "swag bag" and headed back to the car. I looked through the various "goodies" in the bag and studied the route map. Looks like a lot of hills I thought. Now, when I checked the route at home t didn't look that hilly. It certainly did today. In fact the 1st 9 miles will be uphill.
As the start time got closer, I decided to get ready. I decided against my jacket since it traps so much heat and sweat and went with the vest which keeps my torso warm. The vest proved to be useful last cold ride and I figured it would get warmer today. I also wore my headband that covers my ears. Last cold ride, my ears froze. I wasn't going to let that happen today. I found the (unmarked) start line and stood in the sun. Everyone was standing in the sun to try to get warm.
I was close to the front of the pack at the start of the ride. This wasn't a race, just a fun leisurely ride through Cave Creek with 200 of my closest friends. When the ride started, I was in the first 25 riders (the only on a MTB). I stayed in this group for a few miles and a couple people passed me. At the 6 or so mile mark, the 35 mile group turned off. The 50 mile group headed up. It wasn't a terribly steep hill, just long. My hamstrings were cramping a bit so I ate a few bananas and stretched. Good as new. At the 9 mile mark, we turned around and followed the 35 mile group's route. I figured at the turn, I was probably still in the top 40. Not bad. Of course there's no prize for 40th place. Once we joined the 35 mile riders, it was hard to tell where I was in the pack, although I didn't let many pass me.
We rode through the scenic areas of Cave Creek getting out little "passport" stamped along the way. The passport pointed out interesting things about the area. Kinda a cool idea. I was rolling down a stretch of the Care Free Highway and at the turn into the Cave Creek Regiostanding Natural Areal Park (right turn) and the wind hit me as if it was a truck. It seemed that the wind was always behind each turn. I know it's impossible for the wind to switch around and blow from every direction, but I swear that it blew down every hill. Every climb was into a good headwind. Ugh.
The best part of the ride is that I used this ride through a site called Train 4 Autism to raise money for the National Autism Association. Thanks to friends and family, I raised over $1500! Pretty cool! When the ride started to suck really bad and my legs ached, i thought about why I was really riding and I found the strength. I kept telling myself, I was doing this for Matthew and millions of other kids that needed the help. Seemed a little corny, but it worked.
In hindsight, I asked myself:
1. Would I do the ride again? Hell yeah!
2. What would I do differently? Cancel the winds or just train on the hills harder.
3. Best thing I brought: Headband with ear covers - saved me!
4. Worst thing to take: I needed everything.
I can't wait for my next organized ride!
I awoke on the 15th early not because I was so excited about the ride, but because I slept like crap that night. Every couple hours I woke up (after getting to bed late). Anywhoo, I staged all my gear by the front door so I'll I'd need to grab was my water and coffee. The ride started at 8 and it's an easy hour north of here so I headed out at 0515. I arrived in Cave Creek in the dark and searched for the "tell tale" start/finish line. Once I found where the event was, I parked across from a VFW post. At the VFW, an American flag was blowing in in the wind. I couldn't help but notice, it was almost sticking straight out. Not only was it windy, it was a COLD wind. My car read about 52 degrees. I figured that this wind would probably factor into my ride. I walked over to the Flat Tire Bike Shop and signed in. I got my "swag bag" and headed back to the car. I looked through the various "goodies" in the bag and studied the route map. Looks like a lot of hills I thought. Now, when I checked the route at home t didn't look that hilly. It certainly did today. In fact the 1st 9 miles will be uphill.
As the start time got closer, I decided to get ready. I decided against my jacket since it traps so much heat and sweat and went with the vest which keeps my torso warm. The vest proved to be useful last cold ride and I figured it would get warmer today. I also wore my headband that covers my ears. Last cold ride, my ears froze. I wasn't going to let that happen today. I found the (unmarked) start line and stood in the sun. Everyone was standing in the sun to try to get warm.
I was close to the front of the pack at the start of the ride. This wasn't a race, just a fun leisurely ride through Cave Creek with 200 of my closest friends. When the ride started, I was in the first 25 riders (the only on a MTB). I stayed in this group for a few miles and a couple people passed me. At the 6 or so mile mark, the 35 mile group turned off. The 50 mile group headed up. It wasn't a terribly steep hill, just long. My hamstrings were cramping a bit so I ate a few bananas and stretched. Good as new. At the 9 mile mark, we turned around and followed the 35 mile group's route. I figured at the turn, I was probably still in the top 40. Not bad. Of course there's no prize for 40th place. Once we joined the 35 mile riders, it was hard to tell where I was in the pack, although I didn't let many pass me.
We rode through the scenic areas of Cave Creek getting out little "passport" stamped along the way. The passport pointed out interesting things about the area. Kinda a cool idea. I was rolling down a stretch of the Care Free Highway and at the turn into the Cave Creek Regiostanding Natural Areal Park (right turn) and the wind hit me as if it was a truck. It seemed that the wind was always behind each turn. I know it's impossible for the wind to switch around and blow from every direction, but I swear that it blew down every hill. Every climb was into a good headwind. Ugh.
The best part of the ride is that I used this ride through a site called Train 4 Autism to raise money for the National Autism Association. Thanks to friends and family, I raised over $1500! Pretty cool! When the ride started to suck really bad and my legs ached, i thought about why I was really riding and I found the strength. I kept telling myself, I was doing this for Matthew and millions of other kids that needed the help. Seemed a little corny, but it worked.
In hindsight, I asked myself:
1. Would I do the ride again? Hell yeah!
2. What would I do differently? Cancel the winds or just train on the hills harder.
3. Best thing I brought: Headband with ear covers - saved me!
4. Worst thing to take: I needed everything.
I can't wait for my next organized ride!
Monday, November 9, 2009
A Great Cycling Weekend
This past weekend was great for me & the bike(s). Saturday started out with the Ride of Honor in north Mesa. Over 400 cyclists turned out to support those who have been injured or killed in vehicle-bicycle accidents. This event was incredible! The support form the local bike shops, SRP, elected officials, and businesses was awesome. There were all types of riders in attendance; professionals, recreational riders, triathletes, kids in trailers, kids on dirt bikes, and every type of rider you can imagine.
I was particularly touched meeting Kim Saks, whose husband was killed last October while training for the Qualcomm Million Dollar Challenge (a 7 day, 600 mile charity bike ride from San Francisco to San Diego) an organization that raises money to provide prosthetics, hand cycles, and a variety of services for challenged athletes. I met a group of Kim’s friends at the Ride of Silence earlier this year and was touched by the story. Putting a face with the “story” deeply saddened me. Brett’s accident left behind, a wife and two small kids. I know Kim struggles from day to day and it was hard for her to be there Saturday. It turns out that Arizona has a 3 feet law that requires vehicles to give at least 3 feet when passing a cyclist on the road. Unfortunately, that law is seldom enforced. Brett and far too many others have had to pay the ultimate price for this. I wish I could do more to help her family and others.
On a happier note, on Sunday, the kids decided that they wanted me to pull them around the neighborhood in the bike trailer. We have split them up in the past due to them growing and the occasional “disagreement”. They promised me that they wouldn’t argue if I’d pull them both in the same trailer. We rode for a while and Emma decided she had to potty. Once we got back to the house, the kids encouraged Terri to get her bike out and we rode up to the store and picked up a few things for dinner. It was really nice to be out on bikes as a family again. That is one thing I really missed over the summer is riding with my wife with kids in tow. I was very happy to be able to do it again!
Overall a great cycling weekend. Not many miles (20), butu it’s the quality not the quantity that count.
I was particularly touched meeting Kim Saks, whose husband was killed last October while training for the Qualcomm Million Dollar Challenge (a 7 day, 600 mile charity bike ride from San Francisco to San Diego) an organization that raises money to provide prosthetics, hand cycles, and a variety of services for challenged athletes. I met a group of Kim’s friends at the Ride of Silence earlier this year and was touched by the story. Putting a face with the “story” deeply saddened me. Brett’s accident left behind, a wife and two small kids. I know Kim struggles from day to day and it was hard for her to be there Saturday. It turns out that Arizona has a 3 feet law that requires vehicles to give at least 3 feet when passing a cyclist on the road. Unfortunately, that law is seldom enforced. Brett and far too many others have had to pay the ultimate price for this. I wish I could do more to help her family and others.
On a happier note, on Sunday, the kids decided that they wanted me to pull them around the neighborhood in the bike trailer. We have split them up in the past due to them growing and the occasional “disagreement”. They promised me that they wouldn’t argue if I’d pull them both in the same trailer. We rode for a while and Emma decided she had to potty. Once we got back to the house, the kids encouraged Terri to get her bike out and we rode up to the store and picked up a few things for dinner. It was really nice to be out on bikes as a family again. That is one thing I really missed over the summer is riding with my wife with kids in tow. I was very happy to be able to do it again!
Overall a great cycling weekend. Not many miles (20), butu it’s the quality not the quantity that count.
Here are some pictures from the event:
Opening ceremonies
Starting out
Not the most flattering
Ghost Bike
Heading back
My next Jersey
Saturday, October 31, 2009
The Chase
Yesterday's ride started out COLD. 50 or so degrees at the start of the ride. Brrr. I'm glad I wore my full length gloves and new vest. Once my arms went numb, I was good.
Once we got to our turn aroung point at the end of Pecos Road, Kate & Ron decided not to take the hill loop and head straight down Pecos and back to the cars due to time constraints. I mentioned that I would take the loop and try to catch them on the way back. Here's where my plan falls apart; When Kate mentions that they are not doing the extra loop, I state that I am going to try to catch them after doing the loop. Now KAte is competitive by nature and I'm sure she was bound and determined NOT to let me catch her. Well, I didn't. I got to the cars about 15 minutes afetr they left. Oh well. It wasn't for lack of trying that's for sure.
The other "chase" yesterday was me chasing "Kid Rocket" again for most of the ride. I have figured out a way to keep ahaed of him. If we don't tell him the route, we will keep making wrong turns and have to double back to get on route! Poor guy did just that yesterday. He was so far out ahead of me, I didn't even realize he turned wrong. Of course he caught me.
I've decided that after my Cave Creek Bike Festival ride, I am going to list my mountain bike on Craigslist. I don't ride trails that much and I'm certainly not going out eploring alone. My only real options are to get a riding partner that can ride on my screwy schedule or get a road bike. I think the road bike is the better option. We'll see, it could take a while to sell the bike. What will probably happen is once I list it, and go out of town, I will get all sorts of inquiries. That's what usually happens.
Next week, the whole family will be participating in the Ride of Honor sponsored by the Not One More foundaation honoring injured or fallen cyclists. I'm really looking forward to this event as this is a cause that is very near to my heart. I think Kate is doing an event next week so the group won't be riding.
Once we got to our turn aroung point at the end of Pecos Road, Kate & Ron decided not to take the hill loop and head straight down Pecos and back to the cars due to time constraints. I mentioned that I would take the loop and try to catch them on the way back. Here's where my plan falls apart; When Kate mentions that they are not doing the extra loop, I state that I am going to try to catch them after doing the loop. Now KAte is competitive by nature and I'm sure she was bound and determined NOT to let me catch her. Well, I didn't. I got to the cars about 15 minutes afetr they left. Oh well. It wasn't for lack of trying that's for sure.
The other "chase" yesterday was me chasing "Kid Rocket" again for most of the ride. I have figured out a way to keep ahaed of him. If we don't tell him the route, we will keep making wrong turns and have to double back to get on route! Poor guy did just that yesterday. He was so far out ahead of me, I didn't even realize he turned wrong. Of course he caught me.
I've decided that after my Cave Creek Bike Festival ride, I am going to list my mountain bike on Craigslist. I don't ride trails that much and I'm certainly not going out eploring alone. My only real options are to get a riding partner that can ride on my screwy schedule or get a road bike. I think the road bike is the better option. We'll see, it could take a while to sell the bike. What will probably happen is once I list it, and go out of town, I will get all sorts of inquiries. That's what usually happens.
Next week, the whole family will be participating in the Ride of Honor sponsored by the Not One More foundaation honoring injured or fallen cyclists. I'm really looking forward to this event as this is a cause that is very near to my heart. I think Kate is doing an event next week so the group won't be riding.
Monday, October 26, 2009
"Eric & the Skins"
While riding with the usual weekend group yesterday, I rode alongside Kate for a while and we chatted a bit. She told me she was calling our ride that day 'Eric & the Skins'. I nearly crashed when I heard this name because of how funny it struck me. Turns out the entire group, other than me, were Native Americans. I received permission to use the name. I thought it was pretty catchy.
Yesterdays ride took us around the Usery Pass loop twice again. I hadn't ridden with the group in a few weeks and figured that my first ride back would be this one. This is by far our hardest ride. Lots of hill work, but very scenic. For a little extra torture, I threw in the Las Sendas mountain loop as well. Normally, this ride wouldn't kick my ass as much as it did yesterday. Saturday night, I went out with some friends to watch the UFC fights and had a couple beers. No big deal except that is was a couple more that I normal have the night before our rides. The first half of the ride, I was really feeling sluggish.
We had a couple new participants this weekend. Derrick, who is a 3rd year law student and Jake who is a 1st year. Derrick had just gotten his bike the day before and probably hadn't had time to have it fitted properly. He hunk in there and rode the whole ride. Once he gets his bike fitted to him, he's going to kick butt! Speaking of kicking butt, there's Jake (aka Kid Rocket). This "kid" is built like a cyclist; tall, thin, & lean. I rode with Jake for a while and talked to him and all of a sudden, he was gone. He started pulling away from me and I don't think I ever caught him except when he stopped for me. Oh sure, I could make all kinds of excuses; the beers, the age difference, the bike, this kid is just fast. I felt like I spent the first half of the ride "chasing the rocket". Once we reached the 1/2 way mark and headed back out, I decided I was going to do my best to keep pace with him. We started up Usery (the easier side) and I suddenly felt pretty good. I cranked! I pulled away from the group and saw Jake trying to catch me (for a change). I told myself that I'd be OK if he didn't catch me until the top. After the top of the hill and as we started the long descent, he caught me. I felt good knowing that I was able to hold him off as long as I did. Once we got to the bottom of the hill we rode together again for a while. Next up came the biggest, steepest hill of the ride (I call it King Kong). Suddenly, the rocket takes off again. WTF? Wasn't this the same kid who was saying after we came down that hill that he'd probably be walking up it? He absolutely flew up this hill. I wish I could hate him for it, but he's a pretty nice guy and that wouldn't be right.
We all finished the ride separately but within minutes of each other. Kate & Ron hung back with Derrick which was cool of them. Suzanne, Jake, & I pulled away from them on the return Usery climb. Since Jake was so far in front of me, he missed the turn to go up Las Sendas but still made the climb once he turned around.
It seems that I have inadvertently recruited Kate & Ron to join me on my century ride. Kate mentioned it while we chatted. It would be great to have some company! I think we are shooting for December sometime. Hopefully before the end of the year!
All in all, a great day to ride. A little chilly to start, but ended with perfect weather. The rest of the day I spent with the kids and massaging my legs from trying to catch "Kid Rocket".
Yesterdays ride took us around the Usery Pass loop twice again. I hadn't ridden with the group in a few weeks and figured that my first ride back would be this one. This is by far our hardest ride. Lots of hill work, but very scenic. For a little extra torture, I threw in the Las Sendas mountain loop as well. Normally, this ride wouldn't kick my ass as much as it did yesterday. Saturday night, I went out with some friends to watch the UFC fights and had a couple beers. No big deal except that is was a couple more that I normal have the night before our rides. The first half of the ride, I was really feeling sluggish.
We had a couple new participants this weekend. Derrick, who is a 3rd year law student and Jake who is a 1st year. Derrick had just gotten his bike the day before and probably hadn't had time to have it fitted properly. He hunk in there and rode the whole ride. Once he gets his bike fitted to him, he's going to kick butt! Speaking of kicking butt, there's Jake (aka Kid Rocket). This "kid" is built like a cyclist; tall, thin, & lean. I rode with Jake for a while and talked to him and all of a sudden, he was gone. He started pulling away from me and I don't think I ever caught him except when he stopped for me. Oh sure, I could make all kinds of excuses; the beers, the age difference, the bike, this kid is just fast. I felt like I spent the first half of the ride "chasing the rocket". Once we reached the 1/2 way mark and headed back out, I decided I was going to do my best to keep pace with him. We started up Usery (the easier side) and I suddenly felt pretty good. I cranked! I pulled away from the group and saw Jake trying to catch me (for a change). I told myself that I'd be OK if he didn't catch me until the top. After the top of the hill and as we started the long descent, he caught me. I felt good knowing that I was able to hold him off as long as I did. Once we got to the bottom of the hill we rode together again for a while. Next up came the biggest, steepest hill of the ride (I call it King Kong). Suddenly, the rocket takes off again. WTF? Wasn't this the same kid who was saying after we came down that hill that he'd probably be walking up it? He absolutely flew up this hill. I wish I could hate him for it, but he's a pretty nice guy and that wouldn't be right.
We all finished the ride separately but within minutes of each other. Kate & Ron hung back with Derrick which was cool of them. Suzanne, Jake, & I pulled away from them on the return Usery climb. Since Jake was so far in front of me, he missed the turn to go up Las Sendas but still made the climb once he turned around.
It seems that I have inadvertently recruited Kate & Ron to join me on my century ride. Kate mentioned it while we chatted. It would be great to have some company! I think we are shooting for December sometime. Hopefully before the end of the year!
All in all, a great day to ride. A little chilly to start, but ended with perfect weather. The rest of the day I spent with the kids and massaging my legs from trying to catch "Kid Rocket".
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Ride of Death
Yesterday's ride was a great ride except for all the death around us.
Because of today's triathlon, most of our group was absent. It was just Ron & I. We started out both pretty strong (Ron was stronger) heading into the wind. We noticed it on the way to the starting point and figured it would eventually be a factor. Just didn't think it would so soon.
As soon as we came to the bottom of our first downhill, boom! Dead racoon. Bummer. We pedalled on and came across a dead possum, dead birds, and a dead snake. It seemed strange that with all the dead animals around that the morning was so beautiful. Seeing the sun rise over the mountains through a bullet riddled road sign really takes the breath away!
So we did our Usery Pass loops (19.5 miles each way) with plenty of hill. Some moron (me) decided it would be fun to climb Las Sendas mountain 38 miles into the ride. Well, we did and the workout was awesome! Which brings me to another "dead" fo rthe ride. We were cruising down Hawes Rd (at 35+mph) to meet McKellips and head back to the cars. Dead end. Hawes was closed due to construction. We went through the "road closed" signs to see if we could squeak through. No way. A huge hole in the ground and plenty of fencing made us have to turn back and go around. We looked at this as an opportunity to add mileage instead of a bad thing.
The last "dead" of the day was how I felt. I was wiped out! I don't think it was as much the distance as it was the climbing. All in all we rode 46.94 miles and climbed 2008 feet. Our average speed was 15.3mph and our max was 41mph. Our route is here.
I decided (at least my butt did), that my seat is inadequate for long rides. My butt was also asking me to switch my seat. I think I will put the gel seat back on for my ride in November. Which reminds me, I am using my ride in November to raise money for the National Autism Association. If you can help me by donating, please click here. Thanks.
Because of today's triathlon, most of our group was absent. It was just Ron & I. We started out both pretty strong (Ron was stronger) heading into the wind. We noticed it on the way to the starting point and figured it would eventually be a factor. Just didn't think it would so soon.
As soon as we came to the bottom of our first downhill, boom! Dead racoon. Bummer. We pedalled on and came across a dead possum, dead birds, and a dead snake. It seemed strange that with all the dead animals around that the morning was so beautiful. Seeing the sun rise over the mountains through a bullet riddled road sign really takes the breath away!
So we did our Usery Pass loops (19.5 miles each way) with plenty of hill. Some moron (me) decided it would be fun to climb Las Sendas mountain 38 miles into the ride. Well, we did and the workout was awesome! Which brings me to another "dead" fo rthe ride. We were cruising down Hawes Rd (at 35+mph) to meet McKellips and head back to the cars. Dead end. Hawes was closed due to construction. We went through the "road closed" signs to see if we could squeak through. No way. A huge hole in the ground and plenty of fencing made us have to turn back and go around. We looked at this as an opportunity to add mileage instead of a bad thing.
The last "dead" of the day was how I felt. I was wiped out! I don't think it was as much the distance as it was the climbing. All in all we rode 46.94 miles and climbed 2008 feet. Our average speed was 15.3mph and our max was 41mph. Our route is here.
I decided (at least my butt did), that my seat is inadequate for long rides. My butt was also asking me to switch my seat. I think I will put the gel seat back on for my ride in November. Which reminds me, I am using my ride in November to raise money for the National Autism Association. If you can help me by donating, please click here. Thanks.
Monday, September 21, 2009
A Hill, 6 Dudes, & a Headwind
This past Sunday, our group decided to ride the "Pecos Road Loopx2" route. The route is fairly flat with some slight rolling hills. Last time we did this route, the hill on Chandler Blvd was taken East to West. Not too steep, but a little longer than the down side. Last time on the downside, I hit 43mph. This time we decided to do that part of the loop clockwise (West to East). Just a little steeper. Since this route is fairly flat, I rode the single speed. On the way up the hill, I was out of my saddle, and pulling my body down so that I could keep pedalling. I thought my legs were going to explode and my lungs felt as if they were going to jump out of my chest, it was great! I thought I was going to stop to rest, but somehow, I managed to keep on moving and make it to the top. Ron, has nicknamed this hill "Big Bertha". She was much kinder on the counterclockwise part of the trip (I did hit 43.3mph coming back down).
We were all dudes this trip. With the exception of Bertha, it was just us dudes. Kate and Suzanne, you guys missed a great ride. I don't know who it was that decided that Gary should lead, but he dragged us along for the first 10 miles. as mentioned in Kate's blog, Gary is "The Pro". He is a fast rider and really knows a lot about the sport. Gary finally pulled away from the rest of us, but we caught him on the hill. I hope to see both ladies back out with us soon.
We started this ride at 6:00 and finished around 9:00. I hadn't noticed until we were at the end of Pecos Road, but the wind sort of picked up. The whole 20 miles back was into the wind and slightly uphill. With the wind and the hills, the 40 miles we rode almost felt like 50.
It should be noted that Kate, Peter, & Kyle are all doing the Nathan's triathlon in Tempe this coming weekend. Good luck you guys, you'll do awesome!
We were all dudes this trip. With the exception of Bertha, it was just us dudes. Kate and Suzanne, you guys missed a great ride. I don't know who it was that decided that Gary should lead, but he dragged us along for the first 10 miles. as mentioned in Kate's blog, Gary is "The Pro". He is a fast rider and really knows a lot about the sport. Gary finally pulled away from the rest of us, but we caught him on the hill. I hope to see both ladies back out with us soon.
We started this ride at 6:00 and finished around 9:00. I hadn't noticed until we were at the end of Pecos Road, but the wind sort of picked up. The whole 20 miles back was into the wind and slightly uphill. With the wind and the hills, the 40 miles we rode almost felt like 50.
It should be noted that Kate, Peter, & Kyle are all doing the Nathan's triathlon in Tempe this coming weekend. Good luck you guys, you'll do awesome!
Monday, August 31, 2009
Still on Track
Through August, year to date, I have now ridden 2,236 miles. I am definitely on track to make my 3,000 mile goal. Infact, if I keep the same pace, I could almost hit 3,500!
Our weekend ride group decided to tackle the Usery Pass loop this past weekend. You can check the route here if you like. The hills are not too shabby, a 1,660 ft climb/decent. We decided to go clockwise and atthe end of 18ish miles turn around and go back. In the group was Kate & Ron (this is Kate's idea) and a girl from Oregon named Suzanne (one of Katre's students).
We all started out together fairly strong (19-20mph), and then a big down hill (hit 39.7mph). Cool! I decided to ride my mountain bike since it has gears and my road bike doesn't. I planned to put the slicks on so I could hang with the road bikes, but Saturday when I grabbel the wheel, it had no tube. Bummer. I would have to work that much harder to hang in with them. On the first hill, I started to put a little distance between me and the pack. It wasn't long before Ron caught me.
Next hill, 4-1/2% grade for a couple miles, no biggie. We started out and Suzanne's bike decided that it liked the big chain ring better than the small. That wasn't going to work. We all stopped to get this fixed and were back on our way. We made it to the top and down the hill to our turn around/starting point. What I found interesting about the return climb is that Suzanne flew up this hill. I swear she's part mountain goat! I didn't realize how long that big hill was until we went screaming down it (32mph max) for over 3 miles. We crouched down as to get better aerodynamics and more speed. I was crouched so long that my back started cramping. The hill that I hit 39mph coming down absolutely sucked going back up. In cycling, what goes down almost alway comes back up. We were 35 miles into the ride and it was in the upper 90's. Luckily we were near the end and could call it a successful ride.
All in all, it was a great day to ride. Great group, great route, great work out.
Our weekend ride group decided to tackle the Usery Pass loop this past weekend. You can check the route here if you like. The hills are not too shabby, a 1,660 ft climb/decent. We decided to go clockwise and atthe end of 18ish miles turn around and go back. In the group was Kate & Ron (this is Kate's idea) and a girl from Oregon named Suzanne (one of Katre's students).
We all started out together fairly strong (19-20mph), and then a big down hill (hit 39.7mph). Cool! I decided to ride my mountain bike since it has gears and my road bike doesn't. I planned to put the slicks on so I could hang with the road bikes, but Saturday when I grabbel the wheel, it had no tube. Bummer. I would have to work that much harder to hang in with them. On the first hill, I started to put a little distance between me and the pack. It wasn't long before Ron caught me.
Next hill, 4-1/2% grade for a couple miles, no biggie. We started out and Suzanne's bike decided that it liked the big chain ring better than the small. That wasn't going to work. We all stopped to get this fixed and were back on our way. We made it to the top and down the hill to our turn around/starting point. What I found interesting about the return climb is that Suzanne flew up this hill. I swear she's part mountain goat! I didn't realize how long that big hill was until we went screaming down it (32mph max) for over 3 miles. We crouched down as to get better aerodynamics and more speed. I was crouched so long that my back started cramping. The hill that I hit 39mph coming down absolutely sucked going back up. In cycling, what goes down almost alway comes back up. We were 35 miles into the ride and it was in the upper 90's. Luckily we were near the end and could call it a successful ride.
All in all, it was a great day to ride. Great group, great route, great work out.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Cave Creek Bike Festival
It's been decided. Instead of the logistical nightmare of riding the Tour de Tucson, I will instead ride in the Cave Creek 50 mile Discovery Road Ride on November 15th. in this ride, each registrant will receive a ride "passport" and at each stop along the 50 mile route, a page will be "stamped" with a handmade stamp depicting an important feature of the area. The passport will also contain a brief note about the area's significance to the region. Kinda cool.
Here's what's really cool. Terri turned me on to a site called Train 4 Autism (www.train4autsim.com). This site allows one to participate in any athletic event and raise funds for an autism based charity. How cool is that? I've chosen the National Autism Association because of their support to the biomedical protocol for curing autism. As many of you know, my son has been diagnosed with autism and we are fighting it (and I think winning) because of the biomedical supplements we give him. For more on this protocol, check out Terri's blog. She's way smarter than me on all this. So I set my goal and have started fund raising for autism. I have been blown away by the support from my friends and family. If you're reading this and have donated, thank you very much!
So, Terri had an order with the National Autism Association for some of those ribbon magnets and other stuff. She told them about my ride and they a were super appreciative. They are even going to throw a mini-magnet in the order for my bike! Gives me an idea to create a custom autism awareness cycling jersey. Hmmmm.
I'm pumped to finally ride in an "organized ride" again. It's been a long time. the camaraderie and support is awesome. i always find myself riding just a little bit harder when in a group like that. i don't want to be the guy sucking wind. If you care to donate to my "Ride for Autism click here. You can even join my team and ride with me if you want. November is a great time to ride in Arizona, the ground is no longer like the surface of the sun! C'mon out, I could use the company.
Here's what's really cool. Terri turned me on to a site called Train 4 Autism (www.train4autsim.com). This site allows one to participate in any athletic event and raise funds for an autism based charity. How cool is that? I've chosen the National Autism Association because of their support to the biomedical protocol for curing autism. As many of you know, my son has been diagnosed with autism and we are fighting it (and I think winning) because of the biomedical supplements we give him. For more on this protocol, check out Terri's blog. She's way smarter than me on all this. So I set my goal and have started fund raising for autism. I have been blown away by the support from my friends and family. If you're reading this and have donated, thank you very much!
So, Terri had an order with the National Autism Association for some of those ribbon magnets and other stuff. She told them about my ride and they a were super appreciative. They are even going to throw a mini-magnet in the order for my bike! Gives me an idea to create a custom autism awareness cycling jersey. Hmmmm.
I'm pumped to finally ride in an "organized ride" again. It's been a long time. the camaraderie and support is awesome. i always find myself riding just a little bit harder when in a group like that. i don't want to be the guy sucking wind. If you care to donate to my "Ride for Autism click here. You can even join my team and ride with me if you want. November is a great time to ride in Arizona, the ground is no longer like the surface of the sun! C'mon out, I could use the company.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Update
It's been a while since I posted anything. I guess there's been nothing going on. That couldn't be further from the truth.
My work workload has cranked up significantly. Not sure if it means an economic upturn or not, but I've been flat out busier. Not a lot of time to ride. Not even the stationary at night. I've been busy doing work shit. Kinda sucks.
I recently joined a Saturday riding group that has recharged me. One of my wife's friends (the one that talked her into doing a triathalon) is training for a half IronMan in March and started a small riding group that rides on Saturday mornings. I rode with this group last weekend for a "30 mile" ride. i figured; 30 miles, easy enough, I'll take the single speed. The route was fairly flat with a smallish hill and some rolling hills towards the end. This was only my 3rd ride in the month of August and I'd figured, I'd suck wind. Surprisingly, I rode pretty well. I found myself leading the group for the one hill and the last leg of the ride. This was a geat group to ride with and I can't wait for the next ride. Here's a link to Kate's blog.
I was looking into doing the Tour de Scottsdale in early Oct, but Terri is out of town that weekend. Maybe I can do the Tour de Tucson in November. I need to work on some of the logistics, though.
Bottom line, I guess is that thanks to Kate and her riding group, she's recreated a monster. All I want to do again is ride. Thanks Kate and let's tackle some hills!
My work workload has cranked up significantly. Not sure if it means an economic upturn or not, but I've been flat out busier. Not a lot of time to ride. Not even the stationary at night. I've been busy doing work shit. Kinda sucks.
I recently joined a Saturday riding group that has recharged me. One of my wife's friends (the one that talked her into doing a triathalon) is training for a half IronMan in March and started a small riding group that rides on Saturday mornings. I rode with this group last weekend for a "30 mile" ride. i figured; 30 miles, easy enough, I'll take the single speed. The route was fairly flat with a smallish hill and some rolling hills towards the end. This was only my 3rd ride in the month of August and I'd figured, I'd suck wind. Surprisingly, I rode pretty well. I found myself leading the group for the one hill and the last leg of the ride. This was a geat group to ride with and I can't wait for the next ride. Here's a link to Kate's blog.
I was looking into doing the Tour de Scottsdale in early Oct, but Terri is out of town that weekend. Maybe I can do the Tour de Tucson in November. I need to work on some of the logistics, though.
Bottom line, I guess is that thanks to Kate and her riding group, she's recreated a monster. All I want to do again is ride. Thanks Kate and let's tackle some hills!
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
I'm in Oregon - Finally!
What seemed like an endless (but beautiful) virtual ride up the coast of California, has come to an end. I finally made it into Oregon. I thought I'd never get out of California. Winding up the coast certainly isn't the most direct route, but certainly the prettiest in my mind. Oregon shouldn't take too long then it's into Washington, peak into Canada, and east through washington some more.
Hitting another state has renewed my excitement for my virtual ride!
Hitting another state has renewed my excitement for my virtual ride!
Monday, May 4, 2009
Gila Bend, Really?
After some discussion about the logistics of my Gila Bend ride this fall, I have decided to alter the rout slightly. Ok, a lot. It turns out that riding to Gila Bend isn't as big a deal as getting back. I had 2 choices. 1) ride back, or 2) have the fam come pick me up. I didn't really want to stay the night in Gila Bend and ride back and 200 miles in 1 day is out. In order for the family to come get me, it would require the kids to be cooped up in the car for 1-1/2 hours out and teh same back just to pick up their dad who got a bee up his butt to ride to GB.
So, a slight change in route was needed. I'm still going to ride a century (100 miles), just around the greater Phoenix area. I have posted my route on the right side of my blog page. If thereare any other crazy cyclists that would care to join me...misery loves company. I can offer room and board, a hot shower, relaxing in the spa afterwards, plenty of cold beer, and decent company. I'm planning to roll out on 9/26/09. Let me know, could be fun.
So, a slight change in route was needed. I'm still going to ride a century (100 miles), just around the greater Phoenix area. I have posted my route on the right side of my blog page. If thereare any other crazy cyclists that would care to join me...misery loves company. I can offer room and board, a hot shower, relaxing in the spa afterwards, plenty of cold beer, and decent company. I'm planning to roll out on 9/26/09. Let me know, could be fun.
Monday, April 13, 2009
I Made it!
Last night I completed my virtual trek across the country. I started last February on my virtual tour in Atlantic City, NJ and last night made it to the USA/Mexico border just at San Diego. I actually crossed the border (I was there, why not?) and am headed to Imperial Beach to dip my tire in the Pacific (virtually speaking of course).
I am going to head north up the coast of California to Washington and possibly into Canada and then head back East to AC.
Just wanted to share...
I am going to head north up the coast of California to Washington and possibly into Canada and then head back East to AC.
Just wanted to share...
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Any cyclists or runners should join our online group
We're an online group who track our miles and compete against each other (not too seriously) for the highest monthly miles. We push each other and motivate each other to do more as well as have some online fun. Check it out!
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Useless Ride stats 3/29
Total Miles: 20.38
Time Taken: 1:14
Average Speed: 16.43mph
Top Speed: 25mph
Close Calls: 0
Railroad tracks crossed: 2
Freeways Crossed: 1 (twice)
Ride started out cold this morning, but once my fingers and ears went numb (few miles in), things were cranking. Rode south from my house along the canal until pavement ended and continued another few miles alon Lindsay. I must say, I love riding Lindsay. The road that is. The bike lanes are usually debris free & in good condition, and traffic is usually light. I wish all roads the the east valley could be like Lindsay. I was hoping for a longer ride this morning, but one road that didn't go through caused me to turn and therefore shorten my ride. I need to start riding longer rides since my Gila Bend ride is coming up in September.
Time Taken: 1:14
Average Speed: 16.43mph
Top Speed: 25mph
Close Calls: 0
Railroad tracks crossed: 2
Freeways Crossed: 1 (twice)
Ride started out cold this morning, but once my fingers and ears went numb (few miles in), things were cranking. Rode south from my house along the canal until pavement ended and continued another few miles alon Lindsay. I must say, I love riding Lindsay. The road that is. The bike lanes are usually debris free & in good condition, and traffic is usually light. I wish all roads the the east valley could be like Lindsay. I was hoping for a longer ride this morning, but one road that didn't go through caused me to turn and therefore shorten my ride. I need to start riding longer rides since my Gila Bend ride is coming up in September.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Music to my Ears
Yesterday afternoon, I just arrived home from a few days in San Diego, when my son says "Hey Dad, wanna ride bikes?" Keep in mind that I had just driven 6 hours and my butt is tired. Typically in the late afternoon, the kids ride their bikes out front under our supervision. I helped Matthew get his bike out as he put his helmet on and started to get the lawn chair. "No Dad, you need your bike", my son calls out, I goy out my bike (& helmet) and we rode up and down the street having a blast. "Let's go around the block now", he says. OK, off we go. We rode up to the trail under the power lines and back home for dinner just as Emma was coming out. We rode a few more minutes with Emma and finally had our pizza dinner. (Fridays are turning into "pizza night"). As we're putting the bikes away, Matthew turns to me and says "I like riding bikes with you, Dad". A more emotional me would have broken down on the spot. Instead I said " I like riding bikes with you too pal", and smiled in hearing such a beautiful thing from my son.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
The Clap
I have often wondered, sometimes aloud "why do we clap"? When we approve of something, or are happy, excited, or whatever, why is it that banging our hands together is the way we show approval? I guess there are worse ways to demonstrate (monkeys throwing poo comes to mind). I've seen all three of my children as babies clap their hands in excitement at a toy and wondered it each time I saw it. Is it something in our genes? Clearly, as babies we're not "taught" to clap our hands, it just happens.
I saw an article on MSN the other day: http://lifestyle.msn.com/your-life/bigger-picture/articlees.aspx?cp-documentid=17989390>1=32001. It is about the silent histor of clapping. I couldn't click on the link fast enough. Maybe, just maybe, this article will shed some light. Nope, not really. Just a few theories. If anyone has the answer, I'd love to hear it.
I saw an article on MSN the other day: http://lifestyle.msn.com/your-life/bigger-picture/articlees.aspx?cp-documentid=17989390>1=32001. It is about the silent histor of clapping. I couldn't click on the link fast enough. Maybe, just maybe, this article will shed some light. Nope, not really. Just a few theories. If anyone has the answer, I'd love to hear it.
Monday, March 2, 2009
I'm in California!
Tonight, I finally made it to California in my virtual cross country tour. I'm still in Eastern California, but at least I'm here (virtually speaking, of course). I'm planning to ride to San Diego and maybe up the coast to Washington or down to Mexico. I'm still not sure.
A friend of mine put the bug in my ear to maybe someday California. I'll have to wait and see how my Gila Bend ride goes this fall.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Target Marketing?
I'm riding the stationary bike tonight and watching Ultra Extremely Extreme Cage Fighting (kinda like the UFC without the budget). I know, it's violent, but it relaxes me.
Anywhoo, I typically don't pay too much attention to the commercials because I use that time to crank up the tension and hammer as fast as I can. But tonight, I noticed two different "male enhancement" commercials. One was for a pump and the other a pill. Are people (guys) who watch MMA the target audience for such products? Do guys who watch MMA have little wangs? Does watching this make my wang shrink? It occurred to me how they target the watchers of these events with products they may want.
What about the guys in these commercials? I wouldn't want to be an actor and be known as the guy in the male enhancement commercial. What a stigma! I could see it now, "Hey here comes the guy in the small penis ad"! They don't differentiate wheter these are actual users or paid actors. Hmmmmmm. If my agent brought me this gig, I would not only turn it down, but probably look for a new agent. But I guess in this economy work is work.
Anywhoo, I typically don't pay too much attention to the commercials because I use that time to crank up the tension and hammer as fast as I can. But tonight, I noticed two different "male enhancement" commercials. One was for a pump and the other a pill. Are people (guys) who watch MMA the target audience for such products? Do guys who watch MMA have little wangs? Does watching this make my wang shrink? It occurred to me how they target the watchers of these events with products they may want.
What about the guys in these commercials? I wouldn't want to be an actor and be known as the guy in the male enhancement commercial. What a stigma! I could see it now, "Hey here comes the guy in the small penis ad"! They don't differentiate wheter these are actual users or paid actors. Hmmmmmm. If my agent brought me this gig, I would not only turn it down, but probably look for a new agent. But I guess in this economy work is work.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
I'm in Arizona!
I know, I live in Arizona; but on my virtual bike ride across the country, I'm now in Arizona! If you want to see a map of my ride click here. A little less than a year ago, I began this "virtual ride" across the country with a few "virtual friends". We log our actual ridden miles at mapmyride.com and plot our course across the country. If anyone want's to start doing this, fee free to join our group.
Today we had Emma's birthday party and Terri & I got her a cool new princess bike. She absolutely loves it. My garage is starting to look like a bike shop (which is kinda cool). The kids have a blast riding their bikes out front with the other kids in the neighborhood. Watching this is awesome. I can't help but wonder if one of them will really get into cycling like their old man. Hmmmmmm
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Hello, My Name is Eric, and I'm an Addict
I'm driving from one end appointment to another along a pretty seculded road this morning at the direction of my trusy GPS when I see a sign along the road with a picture of a bike and below i reading "Share the Road". What a cool sign! I wish there were more of these out there.
Anywhoo, shortly after seeing this sign, I see a lone cyclist silently churning up a fairly long grade. I was overcome with jealousy. I wished that it was me climbing that hill on a bike, not in a car. Oftentimes, when I'm out driving, I see cyclists and long to be in the saddle along side them (preferrably passing them). Every time I see a cyclist on the road, I have to turn to see what he's riding. I haven't seen too many singlespeed/fixed gear bikes out there-yet. I think what it comes down to is that I have an addiction. There, I said it. My name is Eric & I have a cycling addiction. They say the first step to recovery is admitting you have a problem.
I don't think this addiction is a problem though. It's improving my health, I feel better, and it's fun. Nobody get's injured except me (well there was that one guy in the Mira Mesa mall parking lot...his fault-not mine). This addiction is good for the environment too. I'd much rather ride my bike to the store or run errands than drive - saving polution. If I'm not working, my thoughts are usually on cycling. Even my son, when we go to the store...."Dad, let's go look at the bikes!" Brings a tear to my eye. Matthew spends a lot f his time out front riding his bike with or without the other kids in the neighborhood. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a little bit proud of that. So, that's it. I'm keeping my addiction thank you very much. No twelve step program for me. I plan on riding until I can't ride anymore.
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