Velo Soiree

Go race your bike!

2010-10-18T14:56:00.000-06:00

It is all about racing

2010-07-29T08:49:00.002-06:00

Short Track in Golden

Head over to Routine Leg Works for more fun stuff or just go here and buy something.

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Dirty Kanza

2010-06-02T12:11:00.002-06:00

High gear rider
Take me to the top
Get me to the summit
I'm never gonna stop
Feel my body pumping
carrying my load
taking the incline
getting ready to explode

Rock shock and cattle head
take the terrain
sopping in sweat my breath to regain
reel the breaking calipers
squeezing on the rim
super power riding
keeps me hard and fit for trim

-Anvil

Full

2010-04-07T16:51:00.002-06:00

The bus is getting crowded these days, maybe I should do as Kesey did.

When in doubt, go furthur.

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New

2010-01-25T16:33:00.001-07:00

Check out this:

www.coloradogravelproject.blogspot.com

and then this:

www.bayousaladoenduro.blogspot.com

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2010

2010-01-04T10:18:00.002-07:00

Things are looking good for the coming year.

Check our www.routinelegworks.com for some product and design news.

Event calendar is starting to fill.

My 2009 goals were reached. The bar will be raised in 2010.

Wear sunscreen.

Schoolyard Cross

2009-11-12T12:11:00.001-07:00

School Yard Cross Cat 4, 35+ from Michael Beck on Vimeo.

Schoolyard Cross

2009-11-10T20:49:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the CO Posse Photag, Angie!

Crossniac Kids

2009-11-09T09:11:00.000-07:00

Elite Women

2009-11-03T20:01:00.001-07:00

The Elite Women racing for second as KfC dominated the field.

Boulder Cup Elite Women from Michael Beck on Vimeo.

Castle Cross

2009-10-29T09:35:00.004-06:00

Here is a nice sequence of photos from Angie R.

Boulder CX #3

2009-10-28T13:45:00.002-06:00

My lovely wife shot some video of me racing in the 45+ race at the Boulder CX Series #3. It was cold and snowy, perfect cross weather.

Boulder CX Series #3 from Michael Beck on Vimeo.

I'll work on posting some content soon...

RRV #1 Video

2009-10-21T10:53:00.000-06:00

RRV Cyclocross Race from Michael Beck on Vimeo.

Frisco Cross Video

2009-10-05T17:21:00.000-06:00

Frisco Cyclocross Weekend from Michael Beck on Vimeo.

The HTFU Syndicate CO Posse

2009-10-05T13:46:00.000-06:00

How we roll!

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Anvil

2009-10-04T17:18:00.002-06:00

With the strength of steel

I'll show you how I feel

All the weak will kneel

For the strength of steel

Your mind begins to reel

With the strength of steel

Makes your blood congeal

I have nothing, nothing to conceal

For the strength of steel

Only power to reveal

With the strength of steel

And a love that's real

For the strength of steel

A metallic meal

With the strength of steel

And with my approved seal

With the strength of steel

To you I make, make my appeal

For the strength of steel

You've got to have a metallic meal

Just for the love and strength of steel

For the strength of steel

Mountain Calling

2009-10-02T12:54:00.002-06:00

Mountain "calling to the faraway towns
Now that war is declared-and battle come down"

Frisco will not be a mere skirmish.

Go to www.routinelegworks.com for more.

Hup, Hup, HTFU
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BV

2009-09-28T21:31:00.002-06:00

I raced there but did not have an Irish Coffee.

Colors

2009-09-26T07:17:00.002-06:00

Leaves fall to make way for winter snows with the re-birth of green to follow. These changes happen whether or not we notice. For this reason, stop and assess, so you may change accordingly. Ride fast thru fallen leaves.

Dust Collection

2009-09-25T06:52:00.002-06:00

"I am not on my road bike during cross season" Marianne Vos, so the de Rosa will get a rest and much needed makeover.

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The Syndicate

2009-09-24T14:36:00.002-06:00

As we have begun in earnest the CO 'cross season, I am overwhelmed with the prospect of getting to race the whole season. The routine is in place as workouts are specific to increasing speed and suffering. I have been easing into the race scene as I prepare for a solid weekend in Frisco.

Remember to apply sunscreen, the sun still shines in the fall.

Cyclocross Season

2009-09-22T16:52:00.000-06:00

Big Red Country

2009-09-21T10:22:00.002-06:00

Prior to the invasion of Texas into the once quiet Big 8, my only impression on Lincoln was that of the whipping they gave ISU every year and that of my home town neighbors fervor. As time passes and new friends are made, those scoreboard images and the sea of red have been replaced with the color gravel. Hence, 14 hours in the car (without Ipod) made for intraspection while listening to songs like "Rocking the Beer Gut" and "Fat Bottom Girls." Throw in 13 hours of riding gravel with over 9000 ft of climbing, Lincoln nite life, and some couch surfing (thanks loads, Cornbread!). I came back to the foothills of the Rocky Mountains with a vision for 2010. Vive Gravetes!

Neglect

2009-09-11T09:11:00.002-06:00

I find myself in a perpetual spiral into the abyss of autumn while the rest of blogdom keeps typing away. The future holds more details. Stay tuned, I hope to be back soon.

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Open

2009-09-01T07:32:00.003-06:00

Open of business

Routine Leg Works

And as we wind on down the road

2009-08-28T09:43:00.002-06:00

"When I look to the west,
And my spirit is crying for leaving"

I head east in search of Zen,
Viva la carretera de grava.

Seeking Solace

2009-08-25T16:45:00.002-06:00

The urge to ride has yet again been stoked by the beginning of the nine months of learning. The chill is creeping back as summer nears its end.

Gravel

Pulling Thru

2009-08-13T09:03:00.002-06:00

The legs have been heavy after a stint in the thick air of Iowa, so I have been sticking the nose into the wind every chance I get. It may be painful, it may not feel right, but it what needs to get done. Lotoja looms in a month and maybe some more thick air and gravel prior.

The routine will come soon enough. 'Cross will be upon us soon.

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Brooks in Iowa

2009-08-12T14:50:00.001-06:00

A little Altitude

2009-08-04T07:50:00.002-06:00

Spent some time in the thin air hanging with friends.

A Colorado refuge

Gravel to be explored

2009-07-13T13:59:00.003-06:00

In an effort to continue the "Colorado Gravel Project", I eyed this road that leads to Basalt with a possible turn to Leadville. A study of the map and some local recon will be the next order of business.

Images from the 4th

2009-07-10T10:41:00.000-06:00

Bayou Salado

2009-06-30T07:30:00.006-06:00

On June 27th, two cyclists headed out from Breckenridge on a journey through South Park to Salida. We climbed steady out of Breck up to Boreas Pass before dropping into Como. Chad took full advantage of his power and was able to win the 1st sprint. From there it was south, where a tail wind blew us to Hwy 24 and into the hamlet of Hartsel. The Muscle showed his talents as he pulled away getting the 2nd sprint. Meet my Wife and kids in Hartsel at the Merchantile for a quick reload before heading on to Salida. We rode steady to the last climb up out of Bayou Salado and into the Arkansas River valley. After a long descent, we arrived into Salida. Once again, out foxed and out gunned, Chad took the final sprint into Salida. We headed straight for Amicas to replenish our depleted bodies. As the winner of the Sprint Competition, Chad will get the traveling trophy which is the Surly flask filled with what is on hand and his name etched in history. I had a great day and an even better riding partner!

Look to the fall for this event to happen again in a slightly different format.

Chad coined the phrase "Colorado Gravel Project", more to come on this. Viva Colorado Gravel!!

Start Line

Approach to Boreas

Shadow Rider

The Views

Weapons atop Boreas

The road goes on forever

Some tar

Look back

Intersections to nowhere

Last climb

Chad and the Arkansas river valley

Descent

Finish line

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Searching Deep

2009-06-25T07:35:00.002-06:00

Racing 30lbs heavier

The time has come to clear the mind of clutter, race the legs back into shape, and grasp for the brass ring. No more wallowing in self pity.

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FDR 2009

2009-06-22T07:13:00.006-06:00

The annual Father's Day Ride is in the books.

Gathering of new and old friends.

Waiting for the gun to go off.

We're off

Stragglers.

Bear Creek Lake Park for the warm-up.

Approach to Mt Falcon (Red Rocks in the background)

How I rolled

Mt Falcon climb

At the top

The Divide looms in the distance

Lair of the Bear

Done!

Hat, a soon to be released Leg Lube, and a beer.

The rub down

Bayou Salado Update

2009-06-19T11:24:00.005-06:00

The organization has begun to finalize the plans for this adventure. The start will be currently from the Refuge and stop by the skate rink parking lot (over flow parking) at the base of Boreas Pass at around 8 am on June 27, 2009. We will follow the GDR route from Breckenridge to Salida. Stops in Como and Hartsel if required. The finish line will be around Amicas in Salida, where we will eat and drink. Then an easy 2 hour drive back to Breckenridge to enjoy more beverages on the deck.

This is an unsupported ride. Please ride at your own risk. Rides back from Salida to Breckenridge are for you to arrange. I am not responsible for anything.

Check site here.

Interested? Let me know. Chad and I will tackle this 100 mile day regardless.

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FDR

2009-06-18T09:06:00.002-06:00

Details here.

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Family Biking

2009-06-13T15:39:00.001-06:00

Stoker's View

Stoker looking Snappy

Twin Ts (BOT and SBT)

Fallon's new ride

Dirty Kanza 2009 – Persistence!

2009-06-02T06:22:00.003-06:00

“Pleasure??, I do it for the pain of it” - Lance Armstrong

Chad read to me the above quote from a Graeme Fife article he had brought along. It stuck in my head for most of the ride.

A long day of driving brought Chad Meinert and myself from the foothills of the Rockies to Emporia. I caught up with Dave Pals, Steve Fuller, and Matt Maxwell for a quick dinner at Planet Sub. Then it was back to the Guest Inn for the pre-race meeting. Jim and Joel give us the run down on the following day’s proceedings.

Off to the room to watch the Nuggets lose, then turn in for restless evening of slumber. The alarms going off a little after 4am made us rise with time to stuff some food in our gullet, drink some coffee, and plenty of water as we readied for the long hot day.

The 6am start brought the group out to some cool temperatures and energy in the air. I was really excited to get the ride going. The plan was simple, keep the pedals turning, keep the food intake high, and keep drinking lots of fluids. After some last minute instructions, 85 brave souls headed into the flints for a grand adventure. We rolled out with the escort of a camera crew until that first right turn onto sweet Kansas Gravel.

A few miles down the road, I got gapped as the pace went up and I spun out. The lead group motored down the road with Chad “the muscle” Meinert along with all the race favorites. I settled in for the day. A few futile attempts on my part to hang with small packs of gravel lovin’ cyclists. The wind was blowing strong and making me become focused on the goal of finishing instead of my more lofty goals.

As I was rolling along Dan Hensley rolled up, we chatted a bit about the ride and he imparted some words that stuck with me for the rest of the ride. I can’t remember the quote but basically said it doesn’t get any better as we are just riding our bikes in a beautiful part of the country. It helped boost my spirit as I was watching my speed decrease.

I rolled into CP1 completely out of water but damn glad I made to Cottonwood Falls. The plan for the checkpoints was to have an idea of what I needed and get in and get out. I slammed a quart of Gatorade, munched on a Payday bar, while filling bottles with water. I slogged on toward Elmdale with a full belly and a little zest in the legs. It was only 42 miles during the heat of the day. I kept telling myself this isn’t as bad as those long rides in the Texas heat.

I spent the next few hours in reflective solace as I pedaled and pedaled toward CP2. At sometime during this period I lost the will to eat and felt the urge to puke every time I brought food to my mouth. I remembered those pesky Shot Blocs jammed in my pocket that ended up saving my day. I limped into CP2 with the same plan to grab and go. As I watched riders inhale pizza, I opted to slam a Gatorade and grab some cheese crackers to eat while riding.

I asked the volunteers where I was sitting in the SS class, she said that about 5 single speeders were ahead of me but only 2 recumbents were up the road. Dennis Grelk said that only Skip and Joel were out on the roads. My hopes of a decent placing seemed possible. I pushed on for the next miles in a trying to force feed dry salty crackers into my mouth. I made it through Little Egypt without incident but did walk two of the hills in order to save the legs. One almost wrong turn brought me off course for about 100 yards when I realized my mistake.

A huge boost came when I made it to CP3 to see Chad sitting near the tent. I was stoked to ride with my friend for the last 62 miles. I ran into the store to stock up before heading back out. Skip was inside and offered up his Shot Blocs, I took them later to find out from Joel that they were pulling the plug. Joel gave me some great words of encouragement and we were off. My pockets were loaded with extra Gatorade and a Red Bull for good measure.

With Chad and Greg Bachman, I was in the company of two good men that made the last section a little more fun. Some conversation helped break up the monotony of miles of gravel. One flat on my bike slowed the CO Crew down but didn’t break our spirit. The miles ticked away as the lights of Emporia lit the sky. A lone skunk caused a slight slow in our pace. Greg was the navigator guiding us through maze of gravel roads. Chad was the muscle just keeping the pace consistent and us moving. I just followed.

When we hit the outskirts of Emporia, the sense of relief and joy rushed through me as the lights grew brighter. Chad and Greg were why I finished the event, I can’t thank them enough. They crossed the line tying for 7th place in a time of 19 hours and 26 minutes! A top ten finish in what was a grueling adventure in which 15 finished. I am so very happy for them.

With the finish line crossed, those hardy souls still awake greeted us like we were winners and that erased the pain of the day. Two out of three goals for the ride were reached, more friends made, and memories to last another year. I am happy to have shared them with my good friend, Chad.

I appreciate all those who made Dirty Kanza an event that make me yearning for more gravel. It is the people that keep me going as they make the event. Thanks again to the promoters, volunteers, Skip, Chad, Greg (or is it Gary), Dan, the Vet from Lincoln, the OK guys, Joel, and many I have forgotten. THANK YOU!

I had many song verses going but the one that really stuck was from that classic Ian Flemming movie – “From the ashes of disaster, grow the roses of success.”

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DK

2009-05-31T18:33:00.001-06:00

Gravel Loving Good Times!

On the Road

2009-05-29T08:56:00.000-06:00

Bayou Salado

2009-05-21T12:16:00.003-06:00

Due to some other schedule changes and visitations from friends, the Bayou Salado Enduro will be changed to June 27th 2009. We will start in Breckenridge head over Boreas Pass into Como, then across South Park to Hartsel, from there we will leave the Platte watershed and enter the Arkansas watershed for a downhill into Salida. The plan is to grab some camping close to town.

Check out the route here:
Bayou Salado Leg 1
Bayou Salado Leg 2

Since this is an A to B event, please plan on having someone to give support in Salida for transportation and/or hauling of gear.

Logistics will be worked out as we get an idea of number of riders. We will try to ride together as a group.

Please email me or post a comment if interested. Check the website for more details.

On July 25th, we may be riding Breck-Como-Breck.

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DK Ride

2009-05-16T14:02:00.001-06:00

The Waltworks is getting the call.

Passing of life

2009-05-08T15:57:00.002-06:00

The natural process of life is death.
We meet.
We ride.
Our paths diverge.
They cross.
They move on.
Rest in Peace.

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Family Day

2009-05-03T20:48:00.001-06:00

Took a nice loop at BCLP today with the wife and kids. It was good to
have someone else captain the tandem for a change.

Great job to all those who toed the line at TI. I can't wait for the
race reports. To all the finishers, I am inspired!

Misty day

2009-05-01T10:13:00.000-06:00

Good day to be fixed!

Calibration

2009-04-30T12:00:00.002-06:00

The demons awoke me from a slumber a week ago with the message that I am running lean. Sure enough, after doing the required calculations, I am about 40% shy of where I need to be. I will move towards more when I am on and less when I am off.

Now to work on gear ratios.

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Eeyore's Birthday Sight

2009-04-27T15:48:00.000-06:00

Priorities

2009-04-24T14:05:00.004-06:00

End of One

2009-04-13T14:25:00.002-06:00

Getting some powder

The time has come to hang up the skis and prepare for our summer adventures. This was one of the best ski seasons we have had. To be able to ski over 20 days as a family and not be limited by the terrain made for long days on the slopes. We are very lucky to have a place in Breck to use as a refuge every weekend, which makes skiing the Breck ski resort very easy to do. We did get to Beaver Creek and Keystone for some variety. Unforunately, our plans included Vail, Copper Mtn, and Loveland but a few weekends of head colds and crankiness left us playing Wii in the winter wonderland. The highlights for me this year was my daughters willingness to ski bumps and steeps. She would rather ski the trees on a powder day than hit the terrain park.

The summer is shaping up to be filled with many epic adventures, I hope to join many new and old friends as we travel new roads.

Remember the sunscreen!!!!

Rest Week

2009-03-27T12:07:00.002-06:00

With miles logged, I planned for this coming week to be off the bike. That doesn't mean sitting around. A nine day blitz of telemarking in the mountains should prepare me for the next phase of training.

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Erasing Pen

2009-03-25T14:17:00.002-06:00

Hard decisions make rubbing holes in the calendar very difficult. After toeing the line twice for Trans Iowa, I was looking forward to adding three starts and two finishes to my name. Due to family issues, I have struck my name from this years start list. I wish it was for my lack of training or some injury, but as it stands I have logged more miles than prior to TIv3 and I am at an all time low for my weight. I wish all good luck as they take on the Iowa gravel!

The focus will now turn to DK at the end of May and maybe another trip in June for my gravel fix.

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Spring

2009-03-21T07:42:00.000-06:00

Is Here!

It is a wrap!

2009-03-14T00:48:00.002-06:00

LDL was much fun!

LDL

2009-03-13T14:36:00.000-06:00

Meet 6ish at Ironworks.

Weekend Planning

2009-03-10T08:48:00.002-06:00

As the weekend is fast approaching, we better get our events in order.

First off, L-D-L. Meet at Ironworks in Lakewood sometime Friday after putting in your hours for the man. Then slowly ride to the big city for a tour of fine establishments prior to rolling in back to surburbia. (Forecast: Possible rain early in day, clearing up for evening)

Saturday is a day of rest!

The last day of the weekend will provide some much needed crackling of gravel under tire. Load up and head east is the plan for the day. Looking for a moderately long ride. Departure time from the western edge will be 8ish. More details to follow. (Forecast: Perfect)

The time is upon us to find it within ourselves to push our limits beyond where they have been.

On the Road(bike)

2009-02-27T13:10:00.003-07:00

Making the unfamiliar familiar again. Drug the De Rosa out from the depths of the basement where it has been relegated to that trainer bike. It felt as responsive as the first day I rode it out of Freewheeling in Austin. I love the feel of ferrous between my legs. Time will be spent on the De Rosa over the next month in preparation for a road race or two before the gravel season. A trip to Ft Davis for Hammerfest in very intriguing but the drive is not. A race out east has some possibilities.

Looking to mid-March for a eastern Colorado gravel ride, maybe 60-80 miles. I'll be trying to nail down a route over the next few weeks.

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Decisions

2009-02-24T11:37:00.002-07:00

Life goes by with all the complicate choices that need to be made. I was discussing my choices for a new phone. I compared the two to Shimano and Campagnolo. Shimano being the slick new innovative line with battery power and Campy being that old school technology that will be around for ever. My 1989 Campy stuff is powering the Borthwick as well as it has for the past 20 years. The Shimano on my 10 year old De Rosa is starting to show wear and tear. Back to the phones. Touch screen cool, hip new technology or stodgy and corporate. I should break out of my engineer mentality and embrace the new, first I'll convert everything back to 5 speed.

At least this decision doesn't leave me standing in the garage ready for a ride and having a hard time choosing that perfect bike.

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Into the Thick Air

2009-02-18T13:22:00.005-07:00

The miles and days seem to just click by. The inspiration is lacking but the methodical effort in which the work is getting done keeps me going. Mentally overcoming is the struggle, always something, tweak in back, too windy, or not enough coffee. Watching the Euro season unfold gives hope to my aging body as the CO season kicks off soon. Clear roads are the daily draw. Snows will be back soon, so for now I log the miles and think about better times with some gravel under my tyres.

Books have been filling the evenings with adventure. So much to do! Summer trips are coming together but more winter travel will take place first.

Work will begin on the fleet. May is coming quickly!

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Odds

2009-02-05T14:43:00.002-07:00

There are may variables that can alter ones expected outcome. Preparation and planning are keys to decreasing the likelihood of failure. Don't dream dreams, KILL THEM!

With good weather and clear roads, the early year foundation has been fun to set. The odds are the snow will come again, I'll be ready.

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Random Quotes

2009-02-02T09:20:00.002-07:00

Lite Reading at the Refuge

"Don't take life seriously because you can't come out of it alive." Anon

"Your children will ski as well as you do for one day in your life. The next day, they'll be better."-Warren Miller

"If you don't do it this year, you'll be one year older when you do."-Warren Miller

"We shall not cease from exploration, and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time." -- T.S. Eliot

"I can accept failure, but I can't accept not trying."- Michael Jordan

Adapt

2009-01-30T09:05:00.002-07:00

The news came earlier in the week that I am one category closer to hitting the pro cyclocross circuit. The fall campaign just got a little harder.

Riding during this time of the year can vary from day to day. My biggest opponent normally beats me on a regular basis. No matter the preparation, once the door is open an epic battle ensues. With a regiment to get accomplished, the focused mind has much work to do. Still I must wallow in the past to help lay the way to the future. Twenty years of toeing the line can give much incite.

Filling the weekends with alternative methods has helped keep the weekday grind fresh. Much has to be said about rethinking your approach and making the changes needed.

Train hard, live life, and those dust bunnies will take care of themselves.

Purge

2009-01-26T11:22:00.003-07:00

From time to time one has to divest, whether that be the toxins holed up in your fat cells or those unwanted trinkets collecting dust. The questions are hard but the answers come easy.

Room is being made to be filled with more.

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The Flow

2009-01-23T08:28:00.003-07:00

The ebbs of life sometimes come when the timing isn't perfect. Things happen for a reason and the renewed energy that you emerge with is always greater. This January has brought much vigor to building the base. The addition of a daily WOD from Crossniac Syndicate HQ will add painful twists.

My passion for crayons has paid off. The usual September visit to the SW of CO will be a bit south of Ouray this year.

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The other Adventure

2009-01-19T20:50:00.004-07:00

This is the season that leads to our weekly migration to Breckenridge seeking short lines and good snow. I bring my children up to the refuge to re-live my childhood of traveling to ski with family and friends. During these jaunts, the kids memories are being built with white powdery adventures.

2009

2009-01-12T13:04:00.002-07:00

As we move into the year of 2009, remember to wear sunscreen, a hat, and please seek out a dermatologist. I was very lucky to have a great team of doctors that took exceptional care of me. The process has begun to get my non-profit organization together, more information by the end of the month.

My cycling events are solidifying daily. TI and DK are anchoring the spring season. I haven't yet convinced myself it is a good idea to head to Tejas for Mas O Menos in February. I'll be keeping watch out for a PCL event as well as hitting a MSC race. I did some coloring for a little race in September. It looks like Bayou Salado Enduro will go off on July 25th with a tentative route of 125 miles.

The CO Posse of Crossniac Syndicate has secured Golden Bike Shop as a sponsor. We are hoping to add a few more riders to the roster this year. I am already thinking Bend.

I am hoping for a great 2009! I am starting the year at my lowest weight is as many years (okay Highschool). The 2008 training plan will be the basis for 2009.

Just say WTH and HTFU in 2009!

What the Hell

2009-01-02T23:03:00.002-07:00

Words uttered by my 5 yr old during the ripping of paper off packages that had no value to him. The motto for the year is now etched.

A brief visit to the desert land filled with midwestern retired folks and sagura cactus brought a muched needed break from cold and snow. A little hiking at Usary Peak, some comedy in Scottsdale, and too much holiday cheer made it easy to scramble back to CO for some much needed RnR in the mountains.

The plan for the year is set, mostly in pen.

WTH! It is going to be a great year.

Winter Ride

2008-12-19T16:50:00.002-07:00

I have been lucky enough to get some riding in before the feasting begins. The IRD is the bike that is getting ridden the most. I am thinking of an ENO rear hub and a front rack for TI.

Motivation

2008-12-05T14:52:00.003-07:00

I went to 9 Ball Diaries/Zero Traction with Chad, Bil, and Gerry up in Boulder. I was inspired to get back on the bike and ride. With the temps in the teens yesterday, I opted for a sweat session at spin class and some weights. Today, the sun was shinning melting the snow on the roads. I headed out to Red Rocks and had a great day. Two eyes, two wheels, and two helpings of HTFU.

Climbing up Red Rocks

Rooney Road

If you want to see some pictures of the eye, look here.

Two

2008-12-03T10:48:00.002-07:00

Finally, complete vision out of both eyes. I do have to wear a patch today until the swelling goes down and the bleeding stops. After that I can resume normal activities, basically get my out of shape legs ready for May. I will have one more procedure to do some cosmetic cleanup in a couple weeks.

Remember, just because it is winter you still need to apply sunscreen.

Beginnings

2008-12-01T09:31:00.003-07:00

November is over and what a sedintary month it has been. I am glad it is over and ready to start getting ready for a spring of gravel adventures. I am tired of long walks with the dog and ready for long rides.

Ski season kicked off for us this past weekend. The kids got in two days while I only went once. The ground in Breck went from brown to white in the three days we were camped out at the refuge. With 20 inches of snow and more forcasted this week, next weekend should be great.

My brother will be relocating to M'town. He will be working for the company I started with when I graduated from Iowa State, my wife worked for in Austin/Denver, and my father-in-law worked for over 30 years. If your out riding in central Iowa and see a bright orange Hoo Koo e Koo rolling on the gravel, that would be my bro.

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Recovery Road.

2008-11-24T11:47:00.003-07:00

The journey back has been slower than anticipated. I did spend come time in the saddle last week tooling around the park. With limited peripheral vision to the left, I find myself riding very far to the right. Plus I have found out that depth perception is very helpful when on the bike. In a week I head in for another procedure that I believe will be the last. Stitches will come out and hopefully the use of two eyes.

The process has begun in the development of a small non-profit that will promote the prevention of skin cancer in cyclist. I am toying with naming it the - Domestique Foundation. More work will be done over the next few weeks.

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Boulder CX #4 - Louisville, CO

2008-11-19T14:20:00.004-07:00

Instead of racing last weekend, I stood on the sidelines and snapped a few pictures.

Only Mr. Bristol.

Preparing of an apocalyptic ride.

Crossniacs' in action.

Style!

Our racing backdrop.

Finishing Stretch.

Almost done.

Patch

2008-11-14T09:52:00.002-07:00

came off today! Two more weeks until the eye is unstitched shut.

Back to Normal

2008-11-07T11:34:00.002-07:00

Well, somewhat. The cancer has been removed! The reconstruction is complete. Now I just rest and try mono vision for a week. No driving or cycling until the patch comes off, so that means much planning for 2009 will be taking place.

The postcard is ready to mail for TIv5. I'll be checking the DK site regularly. Planning on running this with Rene in June (maybe). I'll be working on the Bayou Salado Enduro site and firming up a date. The GLGA will be placed on calendar.

Work will begin on putting together a non-profit to promote skin cancer awareness amongst cyclists. My dermatologist is going to assist with directing me towards some grant money.

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Are you Ready?

2008-11-05T10:08:00.001-07:00

Success!

2008-11-05T07:31:00.001-07:00

Michael 1, Cancer 0

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Cancer Sucks

2008-11-04T11:04:00.002-07:00

I know that my cancer worries are nothing in comparison to many others out there. Those people will be in my thoughts as my journey toward ridding myself of this disease starts this afternoon. Mohs surgery is 99% effective in the removal of Basal cell carcinoma. My cancer is located on the eyelid which adds some minor issues as plastic surgery will follow on Thursday.

Remember to wear sunscreen, a hat, and visit your dermatologist.

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More Boulder Cup

2008-11-03T16:22:00.003-07:00

We headed north to the Republic to watch the goings on in Harlow Park. The Boulder Cup is always a joy to spectate and cheer on some of the best CX racers in the US. Georgia Gould took the women's race while Tim Johnson took the men's race.

Some images from the Men's Open Race.

Boulder Cup

2008-11-03T16:15:00.002-07:00

Pictures from the Women's Open race in Boulder's Harlow Park.

Things Change

2008-10-31T07:42:00.002-06:00

The ride for this weekend has had to change. No meeting at Pelican Point in Bear Creek Lake Park. Looks like the big ride is going to be in Golden at the Juvi Center. I am sticking close to home.

Enjoy eating candy and other assorted sweets.

The knife is near. More later.
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Looking toward the weekend

2008-10-27T16:26:00.004-06:00

Prepare yourself for another immersion into bicycle culture this weekend with the Boulder Cup and the Rocky Mountain Bicycle Show.

If your not racing and would like to get some 'cross practice, join in the fun.

Beach Cx

2008-10-27T08:54:00.004-06:00

Boulder Racing put on yet another great day of racing, this time up at the Boulder Res. I actually got called up to be in the third row, which is better than normal. A decent start and I was comfortably sitting in a good position to start moving up when I realized my front was a little squishy. A flat - ran up stream to get a lightening fast wheel change. Lost many positions and just tried not to come in dfl. After some food and family time, I re-upped for the SS race. I ended up dfl with absolutely nothing in the legs. A great day with family and friends.

SC and me.

Post wheel change.

Halloween? Gene!

DFL for the skirts.

Check out the Portland scene here or the Des Moines scene here, they know how to lighten up. The Front Range racers are wound a little tight, its Halloween soon for crying out loud.

Surgery near, no more cx racing for a while.

Gravet season is upon us, are you ready!

Trans Iowa version 5 recon pictures here. Ragnarok 105 registration open.

New Barrier Size

2008-10-25T20:31:00.003-06:00

After last weekends racing, the barriers seemed this high each time I tried to lift my short legs over them.

Tripel?

UCI Legal?

Racing at the Boulder Res tomorrow, should be a sandy good time. Maybe some costumes?

Poached

2008-10-23T16:22:00.001-06:00

Images taken by Mark Wolcott Photography at the Xylinx Race.

Have a Ball

2008-10-23T11:06:00.001-06:00

2fer

2008-10-19T15:51:00.004-06:00

Paid for two races, did two races only one of the races wasn't 'cross. Saturday, I took the kids to run the last mile of the Denver Marathon instead of racing at Xylinx - hopefully Blue Sky Velo will do some good with my pre-registration money. It was a welcome change to run with the kids from the morning school running club. It inspired me to continue to mentor them next spring.

Sunday, I drove to Fort Fun for some 'cross racing. It was a great wide open course, that brought small fields but some really fun racing.

The unknown is now known. Only two weeks of moderate activity after the extraction, which is going to take place on Nov 4th. The rest of 'cross season will be re-evaluated after post surgery healing.

Plans are being made for next year and beyond. I can't wait!

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Mental Distraction

2008-10-11T14:01:00.005-06:00

The first real day of 'Cross racing happen up in Longmont this morning. A drizzle accompanied me from Lakewood north to the Xylinx. The course was wide open with some twist through the trees and a trip into a field which brought some mud. I raced okay, but nothing special. That is the way the season has been going. It was a good way to clear the head from a Doctor visit to have yet another biopsy done on a mole, three pre-cancer spots frozen off, and more treatment needed for pre-cancer on my face. Nothing like some suffering to rid your mind of life's problems.

A little dirty.

Framed!

Tomorrow the race is down at BCLP, which should make for a fun day. Rumors abound that PBRs will be handed up and maybe some whiskey. My goals for the season are shot, it is time to have some fun.

LDL? Maybe soon.

FYSC!

Frisco Weekend

2008-10-06T09:17:00.005-06:00

A good weekend of 'Cross was had as we headed up the high country for some racing in the thin air. The Aspen leaves made the back drop just stunning. My races went well, still dialing in some mental issues that could have me moving up a few more places. Sunday was the first race of the season that the kids got to ring cowbell and yell at dad. My son would belt out each lap "Hup, Hup, Buttercup".

Rolling it through.

Some barrier work.

The dismount.

Last lap.

Notorious, SC, and me.

Five more days of racing until the Doc extracates the evil cancer from my eyelid!

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Crossniacs Syndicate

2008-10-01T14:02:00.003-06:00

Received a care package from the mothership that included some nice artistic pieces.

Crossniac Kick-off Package.

Back-o-Shirt.

Packaging?

IRD.

Colors changing at BCLP.

Kick'n it back a notch

2008-09-30T12:32:00.003-06:00

After a couple good hard days of racing over the weekend, a week of easy rides and rest is in order. I raced in Boulder on Saturday with a field pushing 80 guys. It was the typical Interlocken course with lots of grass and the bowl of pain. On Sunday, headed towards the Kansas border with Chad and Scott for the second stop on the tour of Juvi Centers. The course had a little of everything, but mostly small inclines that made the quads quiver. The races this weekend are up in Summit County, so time to suffer at altitude.

Wear Sunscreen!

Found it

2008-09-24T15:02:00.002-06:00

"You seek escape from pain. We seek the achievement of happiness. You exist for the sake of avoiding punishment. We exist for the sake of earning rewards. Threats will not make us function; fear is not our incentive. It is not death that we wish to avoid, but life that we wish to live." - Ayn Rand, Atlas Shrugged

Mind is clear. Focus is steady. Legs are sore. Hup!
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Where it is or isn't

2008-09-22T13:09:00.004-06:00

Introspection was made in the early hours of the morn as those pesky race demons invaded my slumber. Thoughts swirled as I tossed. Changes will be made. Short season means more focus. Cancer messes with my head. The new ride helps but tension is building. The neck is constricted with the stress. I've been praticing my zen breathing and relaxation. I need to HTFU and race like there is no tomorrow.

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Must be Fall

2008-09-21T19:30:00.003-06:00

Another 'cross race in the books, rode the new bike to a decent finish. A little evaluation and introspection over the next week should help to bring the desired results. The legs are good but is the mind?

Backyard harvest - time to make some beer.

The New Bike!

Continue to apply sunscreen liberally like a good democrat.

Skin Cancer Sucks!

Hoegaard Good!

Gettin' the Build on

2008-09-18T10:18:00.002-06:00

Started getting the new 'cross frame together, just in time for the second week of the season. If all goes well, it will be ready for the 'cross race in Golden on Sunday.

GBS installed the Headset (I owe them a box of Little Debbies)

Added a few parts late last evening.

Finally!

2008-09-16T20:06:00.003-06:00

After putting in some time assisting at Brecktobercross with Chad, a little good karma came my way. I picked it up my new frame from the shop today and now I will start the build. With the help of Golden Bike Shop, the build should go easy. Needless to say, I am stoked.

No race on Saturday this week, so if your up for a little ride at BCLP to hone those 'cross skills let me know and I'll set a time for fun. I plan to race a little BMX style 'cross with the raw sewage pit on Sunday.

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But it was fun

2008-09-13T14:05:00.002-06:00

The season has officially kicked-off! I traveled south to Colo Springs to get that first start under my belt. The course was a good one with lots of mud from the past two days of rain. I got the call up to the front, which was unexpected. A starting loop on a gravel path made a fast hard start. I got the hole shot up and lead to about the top when a few powered past. Then the pack zipped by as I was spun out on the downhill. Hit the mud and things slowed up a bit and I was able to pick off a few riders. By lap two, I knew my gear selection was not conservative. My legs got zapped lap after lap until I could barely turn the cranks over. Lesson learned. I had a blast and caught up with a lot of folks. Time to start pestering the shop to get my new frame.

With my surgery now scheduled, the season may be shorten by a month. Which makes me even more anxious to get my new bike built.

IRD..

2008-09-12T15:04:00.001-06:00

Ready to Race

Banner Day

2008-09-11T17:01:00.001-06:00

Opener...

2008-09-10T17:01:00.003-06:00

The bike is ready, but am I. I never really know how I going to race until after the first one. On Saturday a trip to the land of the Family Focus will test my form. Then its up to Breck to lend a hand at Brecktobercross - not sure if I'll be racing, depends on what kind of influence my brother is on me.

I am dealing with pre-op scheduling and coordination between doctors to get me all fixed up. Hopefully soon, I am getting antsy.

I'm getting some killer banners made for the team, look for them at a Front Range race near you.

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