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............

Click here for "You're the reason God made Oklahoma"

Ride HARD!

The Push - Needing Some Help!

 

Please Click Here to Donate!

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!

Making Progress - Training

 

Monsoonal rains bringing it in buckets.

Dealing with weather and doubts

The classical summer monsoonal-flows arrived this past week. After a couple weeks of heat, it did bring some cooler weather - but the rains.....oh boy! I've learned that forcing rides in bad weather can be costly and counter productive. Earlier in the week I was able to put down a couple decent early morning tempo rides, but after that it was all indoors until a break Thursday evening. Knowing that a storm could quickly materialize, I lit-out for what should have been a quick 50 minute sprint around the middle tracks. Of course there was the expected mud-puddles, but most of them could be avoided. I know from experience that a lot of that "goo" is like grease. Avoid it when possible, as it flips everywhere and can lead to a quick "wash-out" if not careful. Even with the heavy/aggressive tread of the Continentals, I had to take it easy in several places. Wet roots also made for some concerns climbing out of the switchbacks, but still nice to be rolling again.

Dropping into the top of what should normally be a fast ride out.

As late as it was and the clouds coming over the mountain, I threw a trail light on front, as the north side of the ride is dark, even on a good day. The picture above shows how the otherwise well-worn trail was pretty beat down from the heavy rain. Steep grade like this were still pretty tight, but looking ahead for scouring and washes was essential. Down in the lower sections, there were several "grease" puddles that were sketchy at speed - but generally manageable. Several places along the way, the higher speeds were flipping stuff everywhere - making is hard to see at times. The Garmin stats were anything but impressive - more like a casual ride than anything. Rolling into the garage at dark with the lights on felt like September, but nice all the same.

Intervals

When lacking solid road miles, intervals is a great way to makeup the difference.  The old standby is always the steep hill behind our house.  Not able to ride yesterday morning, I barely made it home to get out on the hill for a quick session of "racks". A tad bit abbreviated, it was a solid 67 minutes at rate, but still not getting the heartrate up where I'd like. Lights on both front and back, I finished in the dark. Normally riding this in the dark is only sketchy while dealing with the local wildlife, but the recent rains washed a ton of debris onto the road. Doing this with suitable visibility is one thing, in the dark with headlights....sub-optimal. I could feel it in my legs this morning, so I must have done something right. Dirt riding in the right conditions is a lot like intervals - just not structured. Tonight I made time to ride Mules Ear to the top again. Overall I'd give it a C+/B-, with a couple complications. The last turn right at the top, bucked me off again - like it has nearly every other time up there this season. It's a steep, loose and rocky hair-pin that takes leg strength and balance to make it work - that and the correct line. After getting up to the top, I wasn't really satisfied with the effort, so I rode back to a good spot and sessioned it. Sessioning is common with technical mountain bikers, trying to find the right approach, line and method to conquer something like this. I mean, I've ridden this thing countless times, but tonight it just seemed like I didn't own it anymore. Over the past few years, this section of trail has developed into a loose and shaley type grind. It was bad enough when nobody else rode it and it was regularly overgrown. Well.... all of the popularity of the this section has diminished the overgrowth at the expense of a predictable trail. One return session was enough to find the line and make it around to the top. Those little spots are where the heartrate peaks, followed by quick recoveries. A good way to offset the lack of saddle time otherwise.

Confidence

Confidence cannot be overstated. That little sessioning thing above was all about regaining confidence. It's hard to imagine that you can have done something countless times, but being away from it for even the shortest time can result in a lack of confidence. It doesn't take much to make you forget how you may have been so certain in the past. In such a situation, the only way out is to face it head-on.  Too often  we accept small, or subtle changes as though major events. In our minds, we let those things control us - in fact own us. At the end of the day, all of this has to do with self-confidence and overcoming darkness. It is human nature to fall into complacency, as these types of things don't trigger our "fight or flight" conditions. Before we know it, we allow the shift to take place right before our very eyes. At that point, pushing back is much harder and our confidence spent. The time and effort to regain our own confidence can be grueling, but there is no substitute.

Looking ahead

Not a lot of time to get things in order, but at least there is time nonetheless. It's time to go after some big rides and serious climbs. Putting things in perspective and keeping priorities is a must. No time to fret about what has been missed. Just be grateful for the path that is still open in front of us. No time to allow for squandering of opportunities and resources. Sure, it is easy to take an alternate path at this point, but that isn't being true to ones own self. Do the trials of our lives define us, or do we define ourselves by how we conquer our opportunities? We are who we are. What have you given up that you otherwise should have protected? Own it, earn it, but don't take a course that isn't your own predefined route. Unless, that is really who you are.

The familiar shot at the top. It feels good to own that again.

"I can't tell you why" TBS/Eagles - Click Here

Ride HARD!

 

Does it matter?

 

An early morning at the recently finished Bluff Point - Pine View

Training Updates

A lot of things are challenging the ride schedule this year. Some of it predictable, while others....not as much. Splitting time between the dirt and road, with road rides mainly during the early morning hours and dirt later in the evening. Keeping close stats with the Garmin tells me I have a lot of work to do and not much time to do it. I haven't developed the confidence to try and push long, extended climbs. Rather, I'm back to climbing intervals, where I am struggling to get my heart rate into the mid 160's anymore. I'm told that with my resting heart rate in the low 40's, given my age, I'm actually doing okay - but that's someone else's opinion. I need to hit it harder.

An early morning over looking Causey

Blown Opportunities

One of my longest ambitions has been to ride and complete Leadville. If you don't know what that's all about, I'll spare you the details. Lets just say I have been given the opportunity and am not able to meet the challenge. Like so many things in life, sometimes sacrifices have to be made - generally at my expense. Thinking about it makes me sick. Writing about it.........we'll, it makes me want to puke! I'm likely to never have that opportunity again and knowing that only makes it worse. Still, a couple buddies were able to get in and they are gonna ride it in two weeks. These guys are machines - studs by every sense of the word. I know they'll both finish and suspect they'll finish under the coveted 9-hour mark.

What Truly matters - after all?

I, no doubt, spend more time stewing about things that don't really matter. And believe me, I have stowed my fair share of baggage. There is a fine line between what matters and what one should simply let go into the past. After all, you are where you are now - not that you can go back and change it. Still, turning pages and closing books are not the same thing. This is the difference between experience, wisdom and knowledge. Don't confuse them with each other, but recognize their relationships. Experience is what we get along the way - whatever that way may be. Knowledge is knowing how hot something may be. Wisdom.....having felt the burn of that thing first hand. Still, living in the past gets you nowhere. Living without learning will get you burned. But when is it time to close a book versus look back and when to simply turn pages?

Atop the overlook at Mules Ear - evening ride.

Unfinished Business...that will never be resolved

 Point of Inflection

I woke up this past Monday morning, before my alarm - as usual. This time I had a very distinct recollection of exactly 40 years ago. In my mind was literally the phrase "point of inflection" - the point at which a mathematical function changes direction. The last week of July, the first week of August, 1983 was such a point. Trouble is, I didn't realize it for another two years. At that, it was more questions than answers - still largely unanswered to this very day. There is a part of me that longs for the answers, but I know I need to let it go. I mean, it truly haunts me and I don't know why. To say it was a point of inflection is an understatement. Turns out, it affected more lives than mine alone. That Monday morning last week, I set out on a ride with that on my mind. The thinking that goes on during these rides is rather deep at times - and this was certainly no exception.

What I thought only the elephants may have known

The details are still somewhat clear to me, but those over the course of about that next ten days are kind of out of sorts. The Def Leppard /Uriah Heap concert - so load my teeth hurt for a week. My brothers wedding the end of the next week was a blur, due to the pain meds I had to take. What I didn't know was the pain I had experienced was something that started a week earlier, and unknowingly was burning at my very soul. Little did I know and only to find out two years later, what I thought was known only to a couple wooden elephants, would become knowledge to total strangers. Right, it sounds cryptic and it is for good reason. The point is, sometimes in the quietest of places, these things come back to haunt me. And when I'm on a long ride, the craziest thing can bring those thoughts into my head - but only the details of which I am aware. The rest remains a qualified mystery.

Recently I have began to doubt much of my own self. Be it the events of a few years ago, last Autumn, or forty-years ago, I have more than enough to sort through.........or so it may seem. Sounds like a very long ride is in order.

Great Minds Think Alike...or so they say.

"I woke last night to the sound of thunder. How far off I sat an wondered. Started hummin' a song from 1962. Ain't it funny how the night moves?" The things that wake me at nights is rarely thunder. Matter of fact, I sleep better in the worst of weather. But those metaphorical thunder claps.....they can really get my attention. Bob said it best; "....when you haven't much to lose."  All of our Autumns are closing in. No time to wait. No time for waste. No time for haste.  It's time to move on.............

Click here for Bob Seger - Night Moves

Ride Hard!

Riding through.....

 Opportunity - when it knocks

So often we fail to make the most of our opportunities, as they present themselves. The above image was an early morning tempo-ride, on the old road bike. Mid 40 degrees when I set out that morning, and not even 60 degrees by the time I got home. Sure, these aren't the most challenging miles, but they sure can make a difference in an attitude. I track my performance with a Garmin device, giving me all the important details. Truth is, these rides may fatigue me, but my heartrate never really gets up where I'd like it to be. That takes some work.....work I'm really not doing like I should.

The other day I chose to put-off riding until the evening, thinking it would be a nice cool ride after a long hot day. Spending most of the day working on my computer, I finally decided to make a quick dash for my gear and get out the door for an hour dirt session. The image above is what greeted me, on my way out of the garage. It almost doesn't look to be real - oh, but is was very real. Having been caught on that mountain in some pretty ferocious storms, I wouldn't take the chance of being taken out by a falling tree, lightning bolt, or flying-monkey (oh, they are real). That same night, a woman was crushed by a falling tree down on an oiled pedestrian trail, while riding the Rio Grande. Not worth the chance - believe me.

By the next morning, everything was pretty dry. Although not too early, it was still cool and very humid, with the clouds still hanging on Ben Lomond Peak (shown above). I'm not sure that I saw another soul on the trail, but I also wasn't in a hurry either. Taking in all the beauty is sometimes difficult when my tongue is dragging in the dirt - working my guts out. My mountain bike skills are lacking considerably. I struggle on down-hill stuff, I should be gliding through. The trails are getting enough traffic, that there are subtle changes every day.  What use to be my hidden little secret has become a mecca for riders - from all over.  It kind of sucks. Still, I certainly haven't made the most of my opportunities when I otherwise could. 

Needing some direction

If you have been here, you'll know this shot. It is remarkable, as it looks over the broad spread of the valley. So many times I make this climb (up above to the dead-end overlook), with some crazy idea that I will receive some sort of inspiration, or direction. Well......from that very location, the only direction to go is down. Maybe about 20 minutes from rolling back into my garage at home. I think it is safe to say, we too often expect some divine source to reach down from the clouds and speak to us - as if in a Monty Python skit (stop your groveling). It doesn't work that way - at all. Putting our own darkness and uncertainty behind us is totally up to the individual. Making the most of what you have, with what you have, while you have it......well, you do the math. It's pretty simple.

Pain and Endurance Prevaileth

Make no mistake, being everything you can possibly be is not easy. Endurance comes through suffering - and cycling is largely self-induced suffering. Through our own pain, we must endure. When we perceiver, we develop hope - an internal belief in ourselves that we are more than the sum of a bunch of old and worn out parts. I can tell you from explicit personal experience, overcoming the natural tendency to not pushback is necessary for our own growth. If it's easy, don't expect a reward. If it's hard, don't expect a reward either. Rather, take comfort in knowing that you have overcome hardship and won yet another battle in the war we call life.

... Gonna reap what you sew. Click here for Eric and Joe!

Ride HARD!