A couple more donations and the home stretch

 More support & doners

The last look at Monte Cristo Camp Ground and Guard Station for the season.

Two more from the yea-whos

Former Support crew returns

Yep, the little doo-dah heads, Dorothy, "G." and the Dino (and of course their parents) piled in for another year with the Porpoise. This cadre of knuckle-heads has headed-up support for many a LOTOJA experience - going back a long time. Three years ago, they ponied-up to support my buddy in time of need. And support they did. They helped him on to the podium that year. They know the drill as well as anyone and are a tremendous support - all the way around! They also know too well about the Big-C and all that garbage. It's good to know they are still involved - but then again, why wouldn't they be?  Thanks you guys!

New, but also old

The others that jumped in are the smaller, but every bit as loyal bunch from the south side of town. Never one to say a lot, action is always his motive. The littlest one of that pack is quite the inquisitive little guy. I can see him being a future rider - someday. Although not an interest as far as riding, the "old man" knows a thing or two about endurance and training. His better half, well she is making a career of the subject. Maybe between the two of them they can figure out how to help me get across the line a little faster one of these years. I've certainly tried a lot of variations. Until then, it is a pleasant surprise to see them pile in with the Porpoise. Believe me when I say, they gave when it kind of hurt. And for that, I think I can try a little harder Saturday when I think it hurts.  You guys are great! Thanks!

Final Details

Packet pickup is tomorrow. This is the part where the butterflies creep in. It gets very real, as you see the other racers and event staff. They are all a bunch of great people, but you get the sense of the inevitable. Work schedules this week are making it hard to ride much, if at all.  Waiting for some new shifting cables, R&R Gold chain-lude and still need to buy a new chain (maybe a new R3 or two).  I need about four hours to dial the bike in and then need a solid 34 mile tempo ride to check it out. Thus far, weather conditions look pretty good, but that can also change by race day. I do think things will somehow come together, but I need the customary mountain bike ride one evening to put my mind at ease. All together, it's just a matter of going through the motions at this point. Everything will fall into place - eventually.

Ode to MP 44

SR39, MP 44 In-Bound - heading for home!

The Bitter and the Sweet

I love riding Monte. You can go back and read posts from years gone by and see the same thing over and over. I often refer to Monte as an old friend. Brutally honest and always there waiting. The climb out of Huntsville is burned into my memory; Turn up at MP19, lose cell service at about MP25, a steep stretch in the big ring just before the "blue roof", a quick banana on that little level area, maybe a gu between the Slate Spring and Ant Flat Road, drop into the small ring at about MP 36, grind up through MP37 at the gate, past Big Horn, around the bend to Marriotts and MP 40, Dry-Bread  at MP 42, Little Monte at MP 43 and finally on to the shoulders at MP 44 - out bound. The camp ground sits closer to MP 48 than 47, but is not quite the highest point. You cross three county lines in the process. Heading toward Woodruff, MP49 at Curtis Creek Road is pretty much the point of now return. In a matter of about twelve minutes, you have bunny-hoped the first cattle-gate at about 44 MPH and managed to pass the lower snow gate between MP 55 & 56. MP 60 is the next cattle gate at Burch Creek and then it is a mild push into town. The stop at the store is always pleasant, as these people are simply the nicest folks you can imagine. The ride back to the top starts fairly easy, usually not too bad before the snow gate. Always a head wind, it's only a matter of how hot it may get. In the canyon mid-day, there is no relief from the sun. At MP 53, you are now coming onto the dugway. Past MP 52 just before the dog-leg, MP 51 at the guardrail curve and finally on to MP 50 for a climb that just doesn't give a crap about your sore legs. At MP 49, Curtis Creek Road appears to be a friendly site, but it is still a mile before the climbing is mostly over. At MP 48 inbound, you quickly see the camp ground and the haven that is an oasis. A quick water pickup on at the camp ground, its now over the rolling shoulders, knowing that there is an hour long down hill ahead - but it just seems a little further yet. Finally, just past the last county line, you see it; the beginning of what will be the down hill stretch to home. Off to the left hand side is MP 44 inbound, the flag that tells you that you have earned it once again. As you fly past the last sentinel, the jersey zipper is fully up, sliding into the drop-bars and shifting into the fasted gear you can find - its time to bring it on home. That last descent of the year is always hard to put into the books. You are glad its behind you, but you can't let go. It is the curse and the blessing of what is Monte Cristo. Perhaps not as much of a secret as it used to be, but still an loyal and brutally honest friend - that I will long for during the coldest winter months to come.

A couple more days and posts - then we'll have this one in the books.......

Bring it on home

I owe this one to myself. Headphones on - and play it loud!

Click here for Live "Bring it on home" 1970 - Dig the Floyd Rose trem on the LP Custom

Ride HARD!

A week to go - Big Support!

 Looking Up - Doner Updates

Beautiful Woodruff, Utah - "Coldest Temps - Warmest Hearts"

Sisters - The Greatest!

As mentioned in a recent post, several of my sisters regularly support the Porpoise. Of course there was the donation a week ago, already covered, and now two others showed up this past week. These guys are great! Always on the leading edge of "cool", my sisters are legends. This year is certainly no exception as they have come through yet again - and in a big way. I believe they have been involved most every year since we started this little effort. As I had mentioned about the previous donation, my sisters have good taste when it comes to the classics. By this I mean - music. Several years ago I wrote of yet another Christmas gift from one of these two sisters - 1978 to be exact. An album I still love to this day - 52nd Street. The other of these two sisters introduced me to Sgt. Peppers - the album that really set me on my way. I would have been like ten years old, but I knew every track on that old vinyl by heart. And now look at me........ Where would I be with out my awesome sisters? Thanks you guys..........

Gentleman Jim and his cooler than cool car....

A long time friend to one of the above mentioned sisters, is this fellow that had perhaps one of the coolest cars in it's time - if not all time. If I remember correctly, this thing was a '67 Impala (I think), with a screaming 427 Cu-In big-block. I got to ride in it a couple times - which was like a trip without compare. That would have been the summer between 6th and 7th grades. Oh yes - and "Grand Funk Railroad, Caught in the Act - Live". Having been exposed to the Chevelle world, I had a basic understanding and maybe an appreciation of what a fantastic automobile this particular machine truly was. And here we are something like 48 years later and the man has jumped in with the Porpoise. I've not seen him in probably close to that many years, but I do remember him as being called "Gentleman Jim". Well, I suppose somethings just stick and I truly appreciate that he has chose to help those who are truly and otherwise in need. Thanks for those rides.........

A darn nice plumber and all around good guy

A man with perhaps more patience than most anyone I have had the pleasure to have worked with over the years. We shared in many a tribulation of the professional world. The term "calm waters run deep" definitely apply here. An all around good "egg" and solid example - this is a guy you want as a friend. I think in the past I had referred to him a a "Bobcat" as he is an old Skyview alum - he is truly the heart, soul and salt of what makes that valley what we "old timers" remember. Loyal to nearly a fault, true to his beliefs and an example of what we all should strive to be in our own lives. He has supported the effort in the past, as he knows all too well the effects of the "Big-C". Thanks Tim! You are still pretty awesome for an old Bob-kitty and devoted Aggie -fan.

A Sparky with flare (and a shine)

It's funny how in the course of our days we run across those people that just seem to always make a difference - in literally everything. WJD is just that guy. A very competent electrician and excellent tradesman, I have learned a lot from him over the past 16 plus years. Again, a regular supporter of the Porpoise and Huntsman, he came through big this year - as that is what he does. Long days go by very quickly when we team up, but we have developed a solid team and operation. Most days we don't have to say what we are thinking, it just happens - as we generally think very much a like. He is also a tremendous endurance athlete in his own right - grinding out some pretty intense events. We share a lot of ideas and bounce questions back and forth, as we both seem to be pointed at the same end goal. I just can't wait to find out what that actually might be. On the other hand..... It is always a good day when I get to work with this guy and owe him a lot. Thanks William! - your secrets are safe with me.

The one that started me into this whole thing

Way back in the the olden days, I teamed up with a structural engineer, working on projects literally all over the world. Occasionally we would travel together, which is a whole series of stories by themselves. Nearly 20 years ago I was in the middle of building a house while working with him on some projects. At that time he was very much into the road-bike thing having successfully conquered "SNOW-TOJA". That was 2005 when a snowstorm blew in, on top of LOTOJA, thinning out nearly 75% of race participants prior to Montpellier. Besides being one of the best engineers I've ever worked with, he is also the smartest bike rider I know. He knows how to read a situation and wait for the best opportunities. He hasn't ridden for several years, but could still drop me on any climb. My first LOTOJA was a success almost exclusively due to his coaching and direction. I had no idea what I was getting into and even thought I was in over my head going into it. He talked me through it and gave me the confidence I needed to get to the end. Over the years we have seen a lot together, with myself as being the beneficiary of many a learning experience. I owe a great deal to TCD and can't thank him enough for all I have been able to accomplish as a result of his direction. You could call him a "boy scout leader", but then again - that might be a little weird. Thanks for showing up again. I'd love to see you out on the road again some day.

One of the gang

Finally, this past week, one of my kids jumped in as well. I know he hasn't a lot to spare, but give he did. He has experienced supporting me as a rider from nearly the beginning. He knows the chaos that this event brings into our home every year as a result. The event is and has always been a family ordeal, but it's not all fun and games. As a family, it is an event, but really not a vacation. He knows what sacrifice and hardship are all about. Incredibly smart, this is a kid with more potential than I could have ever imagined in my life time. Generous beyond explanation, he is a leader of men in the making. It has been a blessing in my life to watch him develop and find his course. How could I be so lucky...... Thanks Mac!

Looking up toward the road home - leaving Woodruff.

Race Week

With only this upcoming week to go, there is a ton to do. The bike needs work, whilst I still need to get some riding in. Packet pickup is Wednesday. The starting groups and frame/bib numbers have been assigned. Our start time is 06:34, with 72 racers in the slot together. There are three different groups starting in this pack, with a ton of experience. There are probably no fewer than 12 of these guys that will be pushing the 10 hour mark - legitimately. There is a chance for a breakaway early - not that it will effect me. For me there is a fine line between hanging on and blowing up. I know where I need to hang on to the main group as long as possible. I just hope I have what it takes to do it. Meanwhile, staying healthy is important. It is too close to risk getting beat-up, or sick from "over cooking". Weather will play a part in final rides and polishing. I've done this enough to know to be careful, but persistent.

Last Ride over the Top - Woodruff

This past week was not as intense as the previous week. Coming off a 300+ mile week, including one trip to Woodruff and the Cache Valley Century, my legs were a little timid Monday morning. Add to that the road construction - and lets just say my confidence was a little shaky. This past Wednesday was the final push over the top, back to Woodruff for a last look at the hard side, before the race. The headwind coming back was a little worse than normal, but it was cool. I had again mixed tires, swapping out the rear Race-Lite from the previous week to a 700-25 "Gator-Skin", I also chose to drop tire pressure a tad bit. The result was much better than Monday, with descent speeds exceeding 45 MPH in several places. Climbing times weren't too bad, just not exceptional either. I stretched the entire day in to an eight-hour ride at rate. By far the longest time in the saddle all season. In the end, it was the right ride for the right day - again. Friday night I hadn't only time for hill intervals. Amazingly, these felt great. Still, only getting my heart rate up 154 in the intervals, with 160 Monday trying to beat the pilot truck through construction. The need to maintain intensity is essential. With a busy work schedule this week, I'm not sure how I'll pull it off - but I will.

SR39, MP 44 outbound - Over the shoulders and across the top.

What's coming next week..........

A couple more posts before race day. There will also be the traditional race morning post. Of course there will also be the "Ode to MP44" - the one thing I look forward to. I have also ran across a HOPE jersey from a few years ago that will be the kit for this year. Expect to see that by weeks end, as it is currently being "adjusted" for flight. A few more things to push through, but we are almost there. I just hope I'm ready - 'cause I have a lot to carry this year.

Did somebody say "Caught in the ACT - LIVE!"?

Click here for "Foot Stompin' Music" Live at Shay Stadium

Ride HARD!

Compromise ride and more supporter kudos!

 SR39 MP 40 - out-bound, looking back at the Mt. Ogden range in the center, Weber Canyon at its left and Ogden Canyon at it right.

Took a Beating Today....

A later than usual start had me going up SR39 with it already getting warm. What a contrast from last Wednesday. Of course, more construction made things less than ideal. Somewhere around MP 30, I encountered a single-lane condition, flagger and pilot truck. Both lanes had recently been chip-sealed, making for a lot of rolling resistance. With only dump truck traffic, the pilot truck sent me on my own, telling me to stay far left and watch for heavy equipment. I had no idea how far up the road I needed to go before finding the other flagger, so I bolted on a 5% grade, rough road and no idea how long this effort would last. I'm guessing it was close to two miles to the other flagger - all the while dogging trucks and equipment. The pilot truck caught me just before I got to the other flagger. Man, was I cooked! Still on rough roads, I stayed in the big-ring (mashing pedals), as far as I could - which was a mistake. I'm too hard-headed and should have dropped into a the smaller ring to spin much earlier. Instead, at MP 36, I was suffering - without any good reason. By MP 37, I knew there wasn't enough in the tank to go over the top. At MP 40 (just past Marriott's) I decided to make it a picture day - and a gorgeous day for pictures it was. This gave me an excuse to stop - a lot. Up on top, I had stopped to get a picture of the Mt McKinnon turn-off and caught a badger trying to sneak across the road. I moved up closer to get a picture, but he was too wily and ducked back into the grass before I could get the image. My past experience with seeing badgers has always been good luck when it comes to riding. Lets hope this one pans-out, as I'll take all the luck I can get  - after today.

The Mullet Set-Up

After burning up a perfectly good Bontragger R3 (tire) last week, I switched to my DT Swiss wheelset with a newer set of R3s for the Cache Valley Ride this past Saturday. I generally don't do training rides with this wheelset, unless it is something I need a good benchmark from. So.....last night I sorted through my tires (and there are a lot of them) and ran across an older, but really good Bontragger Race-Lite hardcase 700-23. I used to ride the guts out of those things - they are nearly bullet proof. Knowing the conditions on SR39, it seemed like a good choice. The size is a little different than the front tire. Like 700-25 on front to 700-23 on back. I've heard of guys dong this -especially on mountain bikes. On a larger scale, some guys do it with a 29er upfront and either a 27.5, or 750b (the same thing) on back. Thus, big wheel on front, little wheel on back. That was the difference of loosing perhaps 1/2 tooth gear equivalent, which should have kept me in my big ring longer (wrong!). I can say the descent was much smoother. Cornering at 44 MPH was very easy - enough that I may try it again later this week. We'll have to see what conditions look like Wednesday and/or Thursday.

Mt McKinnon turn-off. Standing at 9,036 foot elevation - according to the Garmin.

The Tale of Two Supporters

The "Fixie"

One of the supporters sent me a message, telling me of his personal (and I mean very personal) experience with the Big-C. A success story to warm the heart - he truly helped make a difference. This guy is a STUD, as in the real deal. He rides a bike called a "fixie", as not does it have only one gear, it also does not freewheel. As such, the crank-arms move at the same relative speed as the the rear-wheel. And for brakes - you use your legs to hold the pedals back. This is no small feat and takes remarkable strength and skill. Anyone that rides a fixie is in a league completely of a unique breed. And a great person is he. Thanks for jumping in and "swimming with the Porpoise". I am honored to have made your association and earned your friendship.

Early morning at Pine View - looking back toward the Hinkley Ranch.

The Early Moring Beam-of-Sun

Not many years ago, I used to make occasional early rides to Snow Basin, before having to go "crush rocks" at the old day-job. On several of the those in-bound returns, I would run across a former fellow workmate and his awesome wife - while walking their little dog. Generally it would be around the same stretch of the paved path, northside of the lake, or just east of Gertson Bay. It was always a pleasant stop - taking time to catch up on a few stories. A few years back, my friend was blind-sided by the Big-C. I wrote about it somewhere back then, but I'd have to go looking. One of the last times I was blessed to speak with him, I caught a glimpse of him puttering around his yard with his wife at his side. Never to miss that opportunity, I spun back around and rolled into to have a quick chat. To know his as we all did, was just absolutely heart breaking. Here was a man I had known as a machine, impervious to the elements that may have slowed others. The go-to guy, that made things happen. The guy that could and did withstand a lot in his life. But as much of a rock as he was, the battles were taking their toll. I made sure to pass the word to some of the other guys, as it was clear, he could use the support. As too often happens, that war eventually took our friend. It seems it was sometime the next year I ran across his wife walking the dog one morning. A true ray of sun on even the cloudiest mornings. In her truest character, when asked, she came to the aid of our friends at Huntsman, through the "Porpoise". Talk about swinging for the fence; she knocked it out of the park! I'm blessed to have earned your friendship as well.

These are but only a couple of the stories - in a much abbreviated format, making things happen for others. The "Porpoise" has never been about an individual, but it is truly about individuals strengths and muster, toward a much larger effort. It takes all of us at times, but inspiration and leadership is somewhat organic, as demonstrated with these two remarkable individuals. It happens in the most unexpected of places. We should all aspire to be as much.

Thank you both so much for leading the way at the drop of a simple text message. You are truly heroes and shall be blessed beyond measure for being such.

Maybe I should reconsider the entire "Ride HARD" thing

After today, I sure don't feel like I'm living up to the credo of nearly every Porpoise blogpost. When I see the selfless efforts of the supporters, I feel as though I'm only words. Maybe I'm only a paper tiger after all.

Here's one for Colin (Zeke). You will never rust.........

Click Here "The Last Cowboy Song"

Ride....Like you mean it HARD!

The Swell begins & a quick training update

 

The Barometer - CVC

Two weeks out from LOTOJA is the always fabulous Cache Valley Century. What in the past has always been a basic charity ride, has transitioned to.........something a little different. Still a great ride, but several last minute changes under a new event organizer - with some confusion on the overall course. The biggest change was the early roll-out. Years past the start was an open-roll at 08:00 - kind of late for any century (100 mile event). This year, they did a two stage race start at 06:15 & 06:20-ish. The crazy hammer heads were out of the gate and sweeping the goat-heads off the road for we rec-riders. Rec-riders rolled at 06:30 - for the most part. It was still a pretty casual roll-out. I love this ride for a lot of reasons, if for nothing else it covers some beautiful country. That and it gives me a chance to work on group rides - something I really never get to do during the year. Lets just say I know where I stand and what I need to do in the next 10 days.

Rolling groups - Too fast, Too Slow

Right out of the gate, a little hotshot flew past me like a lightning-bolt. No chance to catch that cat. From there I was reeling-in small groups left and right, but they were way too slow.  Finally got onto a small group a couple miles out of Franklin. Not sure what happened there, but I found a few more guys that seemed to be okay. As usual, a little ways before Preston I let them go - knowing that I would catch a group hailing out of the early feed-zone. Sure enough, a group of maybe 20 solid riders pulled out together making for a quick, but comfortable ride west to what was supposed to be Dayton hill - surprise! Blowing down into the river bottom we hit 44 MPH, while managing the group. About halfway across the bottom stretch was a hard lefthand turn up a different hill. All the momentum shot to make the turn and start a grind. Instead of trying to burn the glycogen stores, I decided to spin my way to the top. Talk about getting dropped - hard! I lost all sight of that group by the time I got over that thing. What an IDIOT! Pushing down over the bars, everything I saved by spinning to the top was now having to be spent making up ground. Of course I rode the next 20 minutes alone, but slowly caught up with a couple riders heading toward Corndog (Cornish). With five miles to go before Trenton, it looked like we had a cohesive group. Several of these riders were doing the 60 mile course, while about eight others were on the 100 mile course. What we didn't know was the way they had split the course having skipped Dayton, would take us up Trenton Hill on another hard righthand turn. This is about a mile climb, with some variations to maybe 8%. Again, I misjudged and let the group outrun me. By the time I got over the top, that group was well on its way to Clarkston - without me. I could see a couple guys that I thought I could catch. At the turn I could see how far behind I really was. Trying to bridge the gap, I pushed a little harder up the hill before the descent into Newton. Once over the hill, those two guys opened a very wide gap. I caught those guys at the bottom of the hill just before town - and they weren't climbers. Another affirmation of how poorly I was doing on those climbs. Skipping the Newton feed-zone, I was right out on SR23 running toward the Mendon feed-zone. I rolled out of Mendon with a group of guys that didn't seem terribly strong, dropping them on the hill out of town (yes, me dropping someone instead of the other way around). Holding a pretty steady clip, solo, to Valley View, I had to stop for traffic - only to find that those guys were right behind me the entire way. Realizing it was better to ride with that group than go solo, I hooked on all the way out through Benson and Amalga. A couple of these guy made me nervous, in the way the line moved around. I rode with a couple other cats that were a little faster, but still pretty sketchy. Heading back toward Corndog park, I let them all go, thinking I was better alone than taking the chance. I had to work so hard I had sweat in my eyes, forcing me to stop at Corndog park. This is only like 12 mile from the end - well within striking distance for a strong finish. Going home I had a couple chances to hook-on to a couple fast, but small groups. I don't know why, but I always finish this one on my own. Coming into the west side of Richmond is a little hill that kicked my trash last year. This year (alone again) I punched it over the top with several gears to spare. At the end, I felt like I had still had gas, but also knew I'd been riding. I didn't feel too bad - even a little positive.

The Stats tell the tale......

Looking at the final Garmin stats, I could have done a lot better. All things considered, I know where I need to focus over the next week. A couple serious rides this week, with some hard intervals toward the weekend. The key at this point is a few incremental improvements without doing any damage. I don't have enough miles to "taper" like a lot of guys are doing a this point. Basically, I'm going into LOTOJA hard. I need to get some things out of my head and learn to hang-on where it counts.

Big Results to Huntsman

Supporters of both Huntsman and the Porpoise-Effort came through this week  - with short notice. Over the past few days, seeing the donations and comments roll in - truly inspired me. I will take the time to pay tribute to all of the Porpoise supporters over the next week. For now, I can only express my awe and gratitude for the response to the last minute appeal. It sounds stupid, but it gets me very emotional. Several of these supporters have very personal stories and experiences that are why we do this. The fact that so many gave so much in such a short period is a testament of the good that resides in all of us - above else. It is important to know how much of a difference we all can make in nearly any capacity. You all have done and continue to demonstrate this tremendous human quality.

You are Wonderful

This bit of inspiration comes from a friend, that insists we all need to remind ourselves of our own positive attributes. Sometimes we doubt our self-worth. Other times, we simply forget how the little acts of kindness go much farther than can be seen. In todays world, it is easy to lose track of what really matters - to the point of remembering what makes us who we really are. Nothing happens purely by accident. Every little thing in our lives is deposited into a box that someday will shape the outcome of a critical event. Make that deposit count, knowing that someday you will need it to survive. Sure, we all have of our less than "proud" moments, but don't let those define the outcome - your outcome. Rather, develop the wisdom that makes you a better person. You are wonderful! Take inventory. Re-examine your values - those things that you still believe, but left behind for various reasons. Incremental improvements will get you there. Don't be content with the comfort that is "easy living". You were built to be more. We find out too late how much more we were capable of, only to lament our position. Ten years ago, I had just returned from a grueling 112 mile suffer-fest. My dad was nearing the end of his life and not able to get out for much. He told me "I wish I could still ride a bike". That stuck with me to this very day. Never take anything for granted. Your wonderful existence is a function of your ability to make the most of every breathing moment. When that day comes when you wish to be able to do those things you can no longer do, you will still feel as though you are wonderful in that legacy you will have left behind. You are wonderful! Don't waste your opportunity to grow that gift. You in turn will help someone else feel their self worth. Be genuine. Be true. Continue to be Awesome.

5150 - Thanks Steve

Steve's donation came in as "$51.50". I can see him as a "Van-Hagar" kind of guy. This one is for you from 5150............

Click here for a little VH - play it loud!

Ride HARD!

A quick update and a shove

 Click here to go directly to the Donation Page

At the top - Monte!

Stretching the legs

The big rides are important. Monte........is a pretty good ride, but only part of the way.  I love Monte Cristo. It takes me back (see the previous post for another reference). I've referred to Monte (as it is known locally) as a brutally honest friend. There are no lies here - only the truth. Some highway construction this year has resulted in a few challenges and near disasters - but its all worth the effort.  Monday was sketchy weather wise, but I took the chance. Thinking I might try going over to Woodruff (the big ride), I had to turn around at the top when weather started to look questionable. At the top, you're just over 9,000 foot elevation - and exposed. I've been caught up there before and it can get dangerous. Rain, lightning, wet roads, cold - it can be a problem at any time. Monday was the right ride for the right day. 86 miles with around 5,400 foot of climbing.

Woodruff - The Other Side....

SR39 - Woodruff, heading back home..........

I love Woodruff! It makes me hurt like nothing else can. I know....that is a little sick, but I can't explain the attraction. From Huntsville alone it is 50 miles one-way, with Monte in between. Straight from my house it's nearly 64 miles one-way - and a lot of pain. The climb back is always met with a nasty headwind. Wednesday I had setout to push all the way over without stopping - with success. I also committed to pushing back to the top, again without stopping. The mind games can really get you going at times. Into the canyon, the wind was right into my face. Up to the dugway, I was gassed, but still determined. The last hard climb to get past Curtis Creek Road was nothing short of daunting. The overall speed was less than impressive, but I made it - if only to prove that point again. What pain?

A little water

The camp ground at the top usually has water. Last year the system failed and they haven't had running water since that time. I resorted to dragging a couple cases of water up to the camp host's trailer for others that may stumble in - besides myself. It was cool up top - like 65°. Very quiet. Rather nice. Trying not to take more time than necessary, I was quickly back out on the road and heading for home.

The road home - from the top.

Off the top, you still have to ride over "the shoulders" of Monte, before you hit the long down-hill at MP44 (tune in next week for that post). Tops speeds in the mid 40-MPH range, bugs can leave a mark on your face. Zip-up the jersey and keep the mouth closed. The helmet down to the top of the sunglasses. The miles fly by - until the construction zone. UDOT is chip-sealing the road again. I picked up general traffic at a pilot-zone and followed an empty dump down a couple miles. With a brief stop along the way, I heard a buzzing noise - as if something were dragging on my bike. Not wanting to get left behind traffic, I pedaled harder, knowing something was causing considerable drag.  Finally, at the end of the pilot zone, I pulled off to find a rock wedged between the top of my tire and rear brake. Needless to say, it wore a serious flat spot on my tire - to the point of near disaster. I would have been "hosed" - without cell service and another 12 miles before I could get any. Like I've always said, better lucky than good.

Again, the right ride for the right day.

Important Huntsman Update

I spoke with my very good friend (the event director at Huntsman) yesterday. She confirmed donations are down across the board. It is often seen as a barometer of the overall economy and social stability. I'm told a few key significant supporters have not been able to come through this year. As such, I have been doing my part by contacting everyone and anyone that I can think of. This is a big effort, made easier by the hands of many. Please....please, find it in your heart to help someone. If not Huntsman, than someone else. We all can give a little, which will be a lot in the end. It is within us all to do good. We are built for this............

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Ride HARD!

The Push - Needing Some Help!

 

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East Canyon

Where we're at.........

Officially just under 3 weeks to go and still a lot of ground to makeup. This past week was a reasonably good ride to East Canyon, over above Morgan. It's been a while since I have last done that ride and it was good to be back. A pretty long stretch, I typically take a there bottles of water and several different items for fuel. My time getting over Trappers was a bit slow, but not totally bad. The total time to the turn-around was about what I had expected. It still is no solid indicator of where I am, but I know there is a long way to go yet.  Lets hope for a solid week......

Huntsman Needs Your Help

Looking at the Huntsman/Lotoja home page, it tells a pretty dire story. As of this writing, they have logged less than 15% of the overall goal - meaning things are not looking good. Normally this close to the event, it has more than 50% of the total goal received. It appears there are only 71 participants this year, with a total commitment of only $71K. That's not even half the overall goal of $150K . I'm sure this is a combination of numerous things, but it still speaks of desperate times.

How the Porpoise came to be....

I can't clearly remember when I first started to ride for Huntsman, but it seems to be nine years ago. My employer at the time would donate $20K to effectively underwrite all the entry fees for the LOTOJA riders in Huntsman, as well as supporting other charitable events. I needed something (a purpose) to drive myself along with this whole LOTOJA thing. Add to that the number of people I knew which had fought a battle with the "Big-C", with varying results. It seemed like the thing to do at that time. What I couldn't have known at the time is the effect and experiences that would pile-up along the way. This cheesy blog started as simply a way to direct people into the donation page - as it is kind of hard otherwise. Through this, I shared some very personal experiences and details. Since then, my now former employer, has long since ceased donating to the cause, or any cause for that matter. This left a huge hole in the budget for Huntsman  - without any prior notice, or explanation. Basically, it's what big corporations do when leadership (or lack there of) change. Since that change over five years ago, I solidified my commitment to Huntsman to simply do what I can, as long as I can.

Economic Swings

What I have noticed through these years is that the donation page is a very good indicator of consumer confidence and the overall economy.  It tends to be a leading indicator, as donations are not organically flowing in to the organization. Well, here we are again. This time appears to be more obvious than in years past. Sure, the landscape is also changing, but the need for treatment and facilities has never been greater. This cause knows no slowdown due to economic conditions. 

Personal Stories

You can go back and look at several past posts where I mention the different people over these years that have lost their personal battles with the "Big-C". As time goes on, it never seems to end. Former co-workers, childhood friends, family members, neighbors - I mean the list goes on. What doesn't change is the insidious effect it has on everyone - and I mean everyone. I'm just a dumb engineer, not a doctor. I do know we all can have a positive effect by doing just a little bit. As you stop to think about it, consider how a little from a lot of people can go a long way.

Ten days to 10% - The Campaign

The Porpoise is pushing to raise 10% of the current total Huntsman accrued amount by the August 30th. Rounded up, that will be something in the order of $2,200 to be raised and donated. In doing this, it will take the effort of a lot of people. Everybody knows somebody, and in turn - they know somebody.  In the end, a little from a lot can go a long way - and that's what is needed. During this time, posts will increase, while personal contacts are going out. It's time to show what human resolve is all about.  How about it?

One of the sisters comes through again.........

To kick things off, one of the regular "Porpoise" supporters has already come through. One of my  sisters is leading the way. She has been a great inspiration all of these years and an unwavering supporter of many things that are good. In a post several years back, I detailed how she gave me one of my all time most memorable Christmas gifts - 1976, "Band On the Run". I wore out that piece of vinyl and still have it to this day. She knows how to make things happen. Thanks big-sis!

Big things to come!

Click here for "Helen Wheels", from Band on the Run"

Ride HARD!

Time to Climb

 Snow Basin

Elevation graph of a typical morning ride to Snow Basin.

A large part of LOTOJA is climbing - a lot of climbing. Starting with the 22-miles up and over Strawberry, the 9-mile grind to the top of Geneva Summit and the KoM segment that ends the long slog over Salt River Pass. Nobody really counts the 24-miles up Snake River Canyon, as the tail-wind usually makes it feel like it's down hill. And then there is that heartbreaker just before we cross the highway at the south end of Jackson. It taps what little you have in your legs, only to give a last minute hurt before the final 15 miles home.

Training has to include extended periods of climbing, both to build leg strength and mental fortitude. The mental part is everything. Everyone reaches a point where their body wants them to stop. If you are not in control of your body, it will always win that battle. The key is to condition your mind to overcome the pain-threshold and work past what may otherwise be perceived as limits. The Monday morning ride was on an empty stomach, taking a Gu at the bottom of Trappers and another just out of Snow Basin, at MP1 (the peak elevation). This made for an ideal "bonk" condition about 10 miles from home. Wednesday, I decided to shovel down a little oatmeal before leaving. I also changed my water bottles to more energy versus hydration. That call is a fine line, as sweat is pouring out of my helmet - even with a HALO sweat-diverter. Somewhere along the way I squeezed-down a Hammer-Gel and then stopped at the brake-check just before coming down from Trappers, to pound a quick Ensure. Needless to say, there was enough fuel to not bonk, but rather give my legs the workout they needed. Still, the stats aren't the best, as I still don't push my heartrate up above the mid 150's. A little posture fatigue in the lower back, with some difficulty on the descents, trying to keep my head up.

Hill Intervals

Relative elevations with heartrate - hill repeating intervals.

When schedules are conflicting and training rides sometimes scarce, interval training is a reasonable substitute. The grind tonight was somewhat disappointing, but did yield some positive results. My heartrate peaked at the third interval, with values dropping in each one thereafter. When I compare my ground speed, it is clear that I started to slow down, with each subsequent climb.

Typical hill segment: 185 feet of elevation, over 2,640 feet (1/2 mile) distance.

These segments are pretty intense. slight variations, with progressive increases along the way, topped-off by a "spoke-bender" right at the top - it can really get your legs burning if you are pushing it. It's boring as all get out, but effective. I need to start watching my ground speed to push and maintain an average speed a little higher than currently being produced.

Key Markers

Miles Post 1, SR 226 - Snow Basin Road, Inbound (heading home)

Every year I have a few key markers along the way. SR226 MP1, SR38 MP44, Full Trappers (over and back) and of course Woodruff. How I get there doesn't seem to matter anymore, as much as just getting there - period. This is always a mind-game and getting past those key markers is critical. There is a lot to learn from all of this suffering. It seems that every year I have to learn it all over again - the hard way. Once I get these things back down, confidence returns and pretty soon - it's race day. Almost as quick as it happens, it has passed - only to long for the opportunity to electively suffer again. I love the changing of the seasons, but it seems they are turning faster than I remember. Still, those markers are there to entice me, challenge me and torment me. 

Chose to Accept a Struggle

We are "beasts of burden". We are built to do hard things - pushing us past our self imposed limits. Sometimes hard things are forced upon us. Other times, we force ourselves into them willingly. The struggle leads to our own growth. Accept it for what it is. We generally know what is in our better interest, but we default far too often into a compromise. As we age, our conditions change, perhaps making our limits a bit more difficult. Sometimes it is purely physical, while other times it is a matter of responsibilities. Regardless, push back and drive ahead. Own your destiny, don't accept someone else's idea of your success. Never compromise your principles - your constitution. Live them as though it is what defines you. If "birds of a feather flock together" is true (and it is), look at who you are watering with, associating with, following in society. Is that sustainable? Is that what you really choose to be, or do you accept it as a compromise? Set your course, beyond the viewable horizon and be prepared to accept the rewards of a struggle.

461 Ocean Blvd - It's always this time of year

Don't ask why, but August and Monte Cristo always bring 461 back into my mind. Going back 45 years ago - it just seems like last week. It was the absolute best time of my life - if I had only known it at the time. Crossing those shoulders of Monte - the pain goes away and I'm in another world.

Click Here for Clapton - Please be with me....

Ride HARD!