Tying up 2023

 Noticing a Change

I've been struggling with this last post for many weeks. There have been a lot of changes in my life over the past few years - more than I think I've actually noticed. This morning whilst looking over previous posts, I noticed a major change in annual number of posts beginning in 2021.  Even with all the crap that I dealt with in 2020, I was still able to produce over 30 posts. Something had changed at that juncture- call it a point of inflection. For whatever reason, I found myself on the ropes - as they say in the boxing world. Sure, there were some significant life changing events, but most of it happened well past mid summer. I do know that I was getting bombarded on multiple fronts, with things that alone wouldn't have been much, but together - more than I realized at the time. So here we are, staring down the barrel of another new year - and I'm trying to put this all into one final post for the season.

The Torch

Reading the most recent post, I was lamenting having to disposition the final elements of my parents estate - particularly the homestead. Unexpectedly, the farm sold very quickly and that was nearly my last visit up there. A lot has heppened since that particular morning, which is largely why I haven't been riding, or writing. Still, just before we signed the papers, I took a cold morning walk around the entire permiter for one last look. As I did that, a flood of memories came rushing back - and not just of things at the farm. It was there I realized two important things; first, that it is only dirt. Second, There is literally nobody else that I can turn too when I need that guidance of an experienced hand. To that end, I am now IT. As I close out a very sensitive part of my life, I now realize it is my role to carry a torch, that for more than six decades had been shouldered by others. Not that there is any pressure, but you have to be a steady hand in the hardest of storms. As we go through this life, so much changes without any immediate notice. And then one day - it is all behind you. Those are some mighty big shoes to fill and there is a storm a brewing.

About the Race

This whole "Porpoise" thing was never about me, but I know a few people still like to know about the race. Well...this year was a near disaster. No major problems, but as usual, I spent way to much time on my own. As a result, the last 47 miles were like a time trial - just head down pounding out the miles. There are places in that race that get into my head, and yet others, I wouldn't want to be anywhere else regardless of the pain and discomfort. This year did open my eyes a little, as it can do. The question is, where will I go from here. The event has come to define me as a person to a large degree, but it still isn't me. The struggle is that which we all endure - in our own ways. Growing up in the '70s, we became a custom to every television episode ending with some sort of defined purpose, when in fact everyday is a new episode in our own lives. Crossing that finishing line is just another tick mark in a large book of accomplished life tasks. We still have to live life the next morning, and the next day after that. It never ends - until it does. Funny, if I'm not thinking about certain parts of the race itself, I'm longing to be suffering up on Monte Cristo. The race however, it was another in a long string of days. The absolute best part was seeing all the page views for "Mr. Blue Sky". I hope it put a few smiles on faces well, away from the race itself.

The Greatest of Them All

When it comes to cycling, I've been pretty clear that there are only a few people I follow, and very few that I consider worth mentioning. Of course, Greg LeMond will also be the stud of my day, but I also have plugged Lachlan Morton - an absolute stud! EF finally released Lachie's Tour Divide ride. Say what you will about the glamour of the TDF, this is truly about the human spirit and ones will to persevere.  I would normally post a link to to this, but you can search it on your own. These are the things that truly define a persons character. I thought his effort at GB Duro was impressive, but this surpassed that by a long way. It's nice to have heroes, as sometimes we all need someone to look toward as an inspiration. I would love to see him challenge Kegan for Leadville, but that is another story. For what its worth; you are the greatest of this past year Lachlan Morton.

A Final Word of Thanks for the Year

Not sure what to expect for next year, but for now - thanks to you all for being the tremendous example and inspiration that your are. There is still more to do. I wish I could see what is coming, but maybe it's better if we take it as it comes. I recently read a comment on a site, something to the effect of "the tragedy of life is not death, but what dies within us while we are living". I think I'm letting too many things die without the notice of what is truly important. You are the "Porpoise" and I hope that we can continue to make things happen with a little more vigor going forward.

Mile Post 44: What I wouldn't give to be at this point again..........

Give it at few weeks -the Porpoise will continue through 2024! Hoping for the best for all of us.

The Porpoise - 2023

Click here for Jackson Brown - These Days

Counting the weeks

 

Early morning out at the farm. Seems like a lifetime ago....

Only 50 weeks to go....

Monday morning I had a very early job that gave me an opportunity to swing by the old farm in between appointments. Looking eastward across the quiet, I could see the general location of the starting line from only a week before. I spent a lot of my youth up here and in the stillness of that morning, I could feel it as though I were still 17 years old. Hunting behind a loyal lab, that between us, we would bag more than our fair share of birds. Hearing my dad tell me stories of when he was a kid up on this same alkali hillside, it seemed like someone else's dream. And now....I'm older than he was when we had those magic moments chasing upland game. I clearly remember being as young as five, helping my dad up here - falling asleep on the floorboard on the way home. It seemed like another world - a place that was so far from our reality. I can't accurately tell you of the peace I felt during those years, but it was as real as the dirt in my shoes at the end of the day. As I looked across the valley, I could clearly see the entire first hour of the race - at least just past Preston. As things would have it, this farm will be up for sale very soon, as it is the last part of my parents estate. It will be gone, as those days that have long since past. Enough time to put some thought into what is next - a mere 50 weeks away. It all happens in the blink of an eye.

Traction and a little more information from last post

I saw an email from the radio guys this past week. N7RXE posted some statistics as to some actual hours and numbers of people in their operation. According to his email, prep hours were 591.25 hours, 1172.5 hours on race day and return, 72 principle race day volunteers accounting for 1763.75 hours,  many more more associated with those primary individuals. They had 45 medical supports, 107 mechanical supports and 119 crew interactions. These are the tangible figures. The intangible is where that magic happens. Also consider that these numbers are the action of many and I mean many years of experience. It can't be overstated, the importance and significance all these people make. If you are a current rider, or one from the past, your experience was a success in large part due to the people that we only see as a blur during the course of the race. But you see, that is how it works - for all of us. Sharpen your skills and abilities, that you may contribute to something greater than the some of its parts. In the end, the world can be a better place. Thanks for the traction KR and crew!

Nose in the direction you want to go

It has been proven that if you point yourself in a direction long enough, eventually you will tend to that place over time. McCartney has said several times that if you do anything for 10,000 hours, you are an expert in that....thing, whatever it is. Where is your nose pointing? Where are you tending toward? Who do you follow?

There are a lot of people on the internet that have vlogs and blogs about cycling. There are a few that I will occasionally check in on; Syd & Macky, Katie, maybe NorCal. Most of them I find simply annoying, as that is all they do and doesn't represent my interest - at all. The one guy I am a huge fan of is Locklan Morton - the Aussie. A former pro rider, he has doe some remarkable endurance rides, from GB Duro to most recently the Continental Divide Trail - all in record times. Originally a "roadie" he started mountain biking a few years ago when he and Howes (Alex) did the Dirty Kanza and Leadville together. The thing I find compelling is his resilience. It doesn't matter that he isn't as flashy as Keegan, or as bombastic as (not to be named), he is what we all strive to be; fighters in it for the long haul. Locky is guy you can feel good about watching. He is an inspiration to we that are...old and slow.

Maybe next week I'll touch a little on the race from a couple weeks ago. For now, lets try something a little different.

Click here for "Walk a thin line"

Ride HARD!

Unfinished Business: What makes it work?

 

Atop the "Mule". The overlook at Mules Ear, North Fork Park.

The People that make it all happen

LOTOJA itself is a pretty big event. It passes through numerous communities, three states and over 200+ miles - all in one day. On any given year, it is said, there may be 1,600 participants, with another 4,000 support and other associated individuals. This doesn't take into account the countless many that willingly do their part to make it all happen - year after year. Pretty much for everyone involved, it is the highpoint of the year.

Ham Radio operators and rolling support

For the past ten years or so, I have been on the email list for the LOTOJA HAMS. These are devoted amateur (by name only) Ham radio operators. My understanding is it is primarily from one club, but supported by a lot of people of the same interest and passion. These guys know their business. I start seeing the email chains many months before the race. As time gets closer, they are themselves getting busier by the day. Countless hours go into to setting up repeaters and programs, with incredible coordination and interplay - all before race day itself. On race day, these people are on the road, as well as at various points along the course, ensuring we riders are covered. It is a dynamic operation, that has to adapt to conditions on the fly, while rolling-up everything at the backend of the race. Pretty much every person in the event will see these guys and not have any idea the effort and sacrifice made. I would compare them to a fine crafted, precision time-piece. From the outside looking in, you only see the result. When you open the case, be prepared to be overwhelmed by what otherwise appears to be a mystery.

Thanks to all you folks that do it year after year, and get us riders all home safely. You are all heroes in my book.

Volunteers

Also well before race day, many other people are involved as volunteers, helping with many facets of the large operation. This goes through race day, until everything is packed up and sent home. From those that help fill packets, administrate registration, setup and take down venues, organize the starting line, operate all the neutral feed zones along the way, aid in traffic control and directions - the list goes on. I can tell you as a veteran rider, seeing these friendly and encouraging individuals along the way is nothing short of amazing. Pulling into a neutral for a little water and getting a boost of confidence is always tremendous. All of us see you along the way, but I'm sure you may not always hear the thanks and gratitude as we pass by. I think I can safely speak for pretty much every racer/rider to express the thanks and sincere gratitude we all have for your effort and support. Never doubt your effect on this event and those people you support. Thank you so very much!

EMS and Law Enforcement

Putting a bunch of crazed people on bikes, over the course of a very long day is often a combination for some sort of complication. From law enforcement doing the lead-out at the beginning, to those managing traffic, this has to be no easy task. Along the way, we may see law enforcement teamed-up with EMS helping distressed riders, or the occasional mishap - and believe me, there are occasional mishaps. All that said, the professionals that fill this role have proven to be stellar. They are the ones that provide a measure of delineation between the event and community - in the best of ways. They are truly supportive and professional in every aspect and deserve the respect of us all. Thanks for being that authority we can depend on when needed. We are in good hands....

Ahhh...The Race Director and his staff

This guy is amazing. I have been privileged to get to know him over the years - and yes, he still answers my calls. He is just a dang good guy. He remembers details of everyone and everything, but is very personable. He is the driving force behind the entire operation. Give him a week in the UN General Council, world hunger and peace will have been solved. Of course that would mean a lot of diplomats out of jobs, but maybe we should let him give it a try. After all, what he does every year, with the countless communities, municipalities, State agencies, private operations and commercial enterprises, is likely more than all the combine work at the UN for the same billing period - and I'm serious. He and his limited cadre are laser focused, year after year, delivering a premier event that is unrivaled. Consider what happened in 2020 (COVID) and 2021, where they had to setup a last minute, alternate finish-line with limited resources and virtually no notice - they are committed to making it happen. Where others did fail, many to never return, he and his group drove through the tempest with determination and resolve.

Thanks B.C! Don't take that job if the U.N. does call.  We need you here at LOTOJA. You are the heartbeat of the event.

Huntsman Heroes

I still have still have all my files in directories as "HHH" (Huntsman Hometown Heroes). For me, I just refer to them generally as "Huntsman". They do some amazing things and for all the right reasons. It would be wrong for me to take any credit here, as they provide the machine and means to do what we all have been able to do. Of course the machine won't work without the support of all of you - so it is a symbiotic relationship. They have other events throughout the year, such as their Sports-Fest and other partners  (Ogden and SLC Marathons & Little Red), all helping fight the "Big-C".  The pride one feels when supporting such a worthy cause is totally enhanced when working with the great people at Huntsman. I wear there colors every year with a sense of pride.

Back on the for an early autumn ride.

Autumn and what to expect

I try not to make this blog about myself, but rather those experiences and influences about all of us. Autumn is truly my favorite time of the year - for all kinds of reasons. Riding in North Fork Park this time of year is remarkable. Whether riding, walking, or simply driving through; everyone should experience it one way, or another. To that end, tune-in occasionally.  I'll pass as much along as possible. The Porpoise rides until it snows....and then some. Occasionally we throw in a little extra from somewhere else. Regardless, it is all for you, the ones that really make it all happen.

Click here for a short vintage Carly & James - "Devoted to you"

Still riding....

Ride HARD!

Tributes and Gratitude - Another one in the books...

 

The usual next day stop in Beautiful Randolph, Utah.

Another participation medal

Not to go into the details yet, but I did finish - again. If last year wasn't pretty, than this year was down right ugly. For the most part, it was almost exactly as expected. Perhaps I should improve my expectations?

More later this week.

The Legend.....

A donation came in Friday afternoon, from an old friend and dang good guy. He has supported the Porpoise in the past and is certainly a welcomed addition to the team this year. I'm pretty sure he is older than I, but looks like 20 years younger. I mean...he's like Dick Clark - ageless, but approximately 136 times cooler. Always the steady ship in the roughest of waters, he is truly an inspiration. I have been blessed to have his positive influence in my family for the past several years. Thanks Dano! You are truly a legend.

Gratitude

There are many to thank this year, but none more than my support crew and chief. This ride/race doesn't happen by ones-self, it take a team - a crew if you will. And driving that crew is always the crew-chief. From getting ready the week before, through dropping me off at the starting line, through the supported feed zones and finally to the finish - that doesn't begin to cover it all.

Race Crew

This would be the yea-whose again. My first LOTOJA was shortly after my daughters first birthday. She has been to every one of these things along the way. Sure... a bit of a turd at times, but still my favorite turd nonetheless. Of course the brothers that keep her in check make for an eventful activity - regardless of what that might be. Again this year, they were all wearing custom "Porpoise Athletics" shirts. Pretty sweet if you ask me. I'm sure they think it is a spectacle, watching the "old-man" (emphasis on OLD), grind my guts out year after year. They are there; from the 04:00 wake-up, to the finish line, wondering if this is the year I can't get in on time. No question - we are a LOTOJA family.

The Chief

Of course every crew must have it's crew-chief. Again this year, that was my better half. If you only knew the sacrifices she makes to tolerate my bad behavior. It seems about every six, or seven years, the race falls on our wedding anniversary.  As matter of fact, it is 37 years today. Hmmmm.... If there ever was a model of inspiration, it is certainly her. It is no exaggeration that I often consider what I think to be pain, against what she has endured with having 10 (yep, that's right) kids - naturally. That's when I realize the difference between pain and simple discomfort. She keeps things in order and has the kit-bags ready at the feed zones. At a fighting weight of barely 105 pounds soaking wet, she is formidable. She also makes all the arrangements, orders the Porpoise swag and keeps me generally in line. I typically don't like this to get too personal, so I'll leave it with the link below.

This is arguably the most beautiful Beatles song of ALL time. The live tribute to George, by Paul, Eric, Ringo, Albert, Billy, Jeff and a bunch of others - it is the closest thing to appropriate here.

Click Here for "Something" Concert for George

Better lucky than good............

A gift for everyone - Please pass this along

Please share the link with everyone  - Mr. Blue Sky!

 

Click Here! "Mr. Blue Sky"

"Please Turn Me Over"

This is IT BABY!

Feeling woefully inadequate for the task

The Jerseys and how it all started

It would have been like my 6th year riding LOTOJA that I decided I needed a purpose to continue doing this whole bike riding thing. At the time my then employer, was essentially underwriting the entire entry fee portion for all the Huntsman riders (Then called Huntsman Hometown Heroes). Having been asked to represent the company at the check ceremony the morning after in the previous year, I thought it seemed like a good idea. What I didn't know would certainly hurt later. I believe it was the previous year one of my older cousins had been diagnosed with a type of brain cancer. I mean, I hadn't seen her in more than 30 years, but it still caught my attention. So.....the evening before the race, my first year riding for Huntsman, I literally at the last minute, wrote her name on my jersey sleeve. The next morning as I was getting ready to roll into the starting corral, I asked my daughter to take a picture of my sleeve and send it to all my sisters. She also took the same picture just after the finish line.  I distinctly remember over the course of that day just being hammered, but thinking of that name on my sleeve - fighting the battle of her life. It kept me going - as cheesy at it may otherwise sound. We packed our stuff and made it a weekend, heading for home that next morning. The following day (Monday), I received word that my cousin had lost the war - succumbing to this shitty disease.  Talk about a board across the back of the legs. "Stunned" doesn't begin to describe that emotion. Regardless, it was at the point I committed to dong this until...until I don't know when. Since then I have written far too many names and tributes on all my jerseys  - except for the jersey shown here. I believe this one arrived following the race that particular year, perhaps five years ago. I forgot I even had this thing, but noticed it hanging with a bunch of other jerseys and kits, only a few weeks ago. You will notice it says "10 Years Riding for HOPE", as this was the 10th year for the HHH program at LOTOJA. Well....this marks my 10th year riding Huntsman. As such, I've shelved this years kit for the throwback (and NO, Autoliv no longer supports this cause and hasn't since 2018). This is a continuation of what WE started ten years ago.

"Sugar Britches"

This year I am privileged to have the kit  properly prepped for flight by the many that knew this sweet individual. You may notice in the image, the white area adorned with messages and names that have been so kind as to write their remembrance on the kit. Along with this came a donation to Huntsman from the man left in that shadow of the emptiness. A brother I didn't know I had - but a true kindred being, as it were; Thanks for being a stud Peter (and gang of studs)! I am humbled and will leave it at that.

On the collar

As I have also done regularly, I have also included names of a classmate and my wife's cousin. You now why.....Those are Charlene Brown ('81) and Steven P.

A few more in for the swim

Ahhhh, Frido the Bandito; a darn good kid and always wanting to do the right thing. Eventually that thing will grow in. Until then, be patient and keep plowing forward. Turd, Jose and Fred......the reason I choose to live and push forward - yep, they are also a great support group. And of course, B. Cheddar. This goes back to an off-hand remark "...but cheddar works well with almost everything". Use your imagination as to the the 13 year old me heard that phrase. These are the rest of the crew that makes it happen every year. I am nothing without them, in any capacity. Now go and clean you rooms!

Thanks to you all!

I have tried to cover all of the supporters this year, but am afraid my writing abilities are not capable of expressing my gratitude and humility. Nancy, Kristin, Steve, Beck, Debbie, Gentlemen Jim, Tim, Todd, William, Peter and of course the herd that is my fam. You are making a difference and the world a better place at the same time.

Race day and the follow-ups

I'll be out the door early tomorrow, but I will leave a special post for all of you to pass along. A summary will also follow within the next few days after the race. The Porpoise will also continue to ride until it snows, while posting until the end of the year. Meanwhile, if you really want to known the soul of the Porpoise, go back to 2017 and read about Jill (August 17th) and Hadley My Hero, year end post 2017. You will hurt - beware. As for tomorrow, I have my work cut out for me. Ugh....

My buddies bike at Ant Flat Road in June - Seems like a lifetime ago....

Headphones are recommended here

A very young Derek and an old Greg - The Alman Brothers!

Click here for "Instrumental Illness" Hang on! It's gonna get fast.....

Ride HARD!

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!