Master K's view

It was relatively nice yesterday so I load up the bike, trailer, and Keagan for a ride up the Cherry Creek bike trail.

The newly convest IRD to single speed. This is only phase one as I hope to get a set of Eno Hubs and Campy brake levers.

The view.

Flying the flag of the old team.

Even More MoM

Found this link from the weekend of racing in the desert:
http://www.cyclingnews.com/mtb.php?id=mtb/2007/feb07/masomenos
Check out the pictures of Mr Nice!

Report

The journey started innocently enough with three cyclists loading up in a VW van to head from Denver to the border region of Texas. The place we were headed was Terlingua, the land of three languages. Our mission was spelled out on the back of an old Taco Bell napkin, find the reason Lajitas has an international airport.

The first part of the mission was the most daunting, drive 14+ hours through the night as to arrive in the cover of darkness. With some unplanned delays from some unidentified individuals near Roswell we were able to slide into the CASI site unnoticed by most. We quickly set up camp in order to take our first observation of this international airport. One of the counter intelligence agents was on to us, he strolled into our site and was sizing up our abilities. Finally after shaking him with lies about whiskey, beer, and goats we headed out onto the dusty trail.

After initial observation and getting chased off by a trained pack of javelinas, we decided it would be worth a visit into town to get some more information. Our first visit was to none other that the mayor, Clay Henry. After some coaxing with a bottle of beer, he informed us that who we needed to speak with were the agents operating out of a restaurant in the ghost town. We cased the joint out waundering aimlessly through the adjacent store trying to ditch the officer that was following us. Then in haste we trucked off to a small mexican joint for some food. Upon re-entry to the CASI site we were met by a roving band of bandits handing out malted beverages. We of course took said beverages for further investigation.



After a resting sleep in gale force winds we awoke to a new day. In order to remain under cover we donned our racing attire and lined up for the start. Because as agents who are not failures we thought in necessary not to have derailuers. Two of us would only take one pass by the airport, while the other would get to view it twice.

All went well in the races with us all finishing and able to take up our investigation in earnest. Myself and Notorious started early into our collection of beer and trying desperatly to pump the locals for information. All while aka Cellarrat was getting a closer look at the airport, he brought with him a mix of raisins and whiskey to fend off the javelinas. After more milling around partaking in various beverages from the sponsors - Fattire and Titos, we were whisked away by the bandits to the top secret E complex. We were asked to bathe before given information, advice, and beer. We then proceeded with extreme caution to the Starlight with the help from the bandits. During the course of consuming food and agave substances we found out from the woman only known in the agency as Exactly, that we may be on something.

From the Starlight we, under the cover of darkness, headed back to the CASI site. A huge fire was erected where a band was wailing out tunes from the mother land, ja rastafari - let jah arise and let I and I. Exactly's bro was the mandolin player and the pieces were beginning to fall into place. At some point in time fire twirling airport employees were signaling in the great white craft. The great white craft came blazing out of the desert through the dance floor parting the revelers and then disappearing into the darkness. This was the final piece in the puzzle.

After a solid few hours of sleep, the van was loaded for the journey home. Once home we were de-briefed, de-dusted, and de-toxed for whatever the next mission might bring. Final report - the international airport is a front for a man who has too much money and small feet.

Out.

More or less for now....

Here is a brief photo replay of the weekend. Look for a complete race report later.

The orbs of Roswell

The fastfood alien craft that tried to suck us in.

Mr. Nice preparing for the course preride.

Mr. Nice after rocking the 100k event!!!!

A view of the CASI complex, I was out course marshalling for the Kids cup.

The view from the Ezell complex.

The gang at the Starlight with our new friend and owner, Summer.

Notorious showing the moves that landed him his wife.


?

It's back!

Like olde times

Spent the weekend getting the legs worked over skiing with my cousin and his wife. They are both exceptional skiers and had a blast skiing the top of the mountain off Peak 7 and 8. I grew up skiing with my cousins every weekend at a small resort in Michigan, now that we live in Colorado we have only skied a handful of times. Need to change that.

Recovered yesterday with a bad case of intestinal distress (getting it out of the way now).

Terlingua Information:
Weather Forecast:
Friday - High 62F, Low 34F
Saturday - High 67F, Low 39F
It looks like Notorious and I are racing the 50k singlespeed class whilst Cellarrat is tackling the 100k on his fixed gear.

K pasa!

Woke this morning to a foggy sky and even foggier head. But like the motto goes "Onward thru the Fog"! I dug deep and spent some time on the trainer then headed over to GMRC for Indoor Cycling Class and weights - felt mucho better after that.

Getting psyched for the trip to Terlingua. It is going to be a long drive through UFO infested airspace but in my opinion completely worth the risk of abduction. Last time I made the trip was in 2003 when it was a stage race in Lajitas and the first race out there was in 1994. Only missed one year from 1994 to 2001 before moving to Colorado. Some years it was the only mtn bike race I did. Still working on what gear to run but may just be conservative and run a 32x18 on the 29er WaltWorks.

Terlingua Information:
Terlingua (Tur-ling-gwah) and nearby Study Butte (Stoodi Beaut) are located in South Brewster County, Texas, in the Heart of the Big Bend country. A one-of-a-kind community with loads of colorful history, ancient and current. Even the name, Terlingua, meaning Three languages (in one interpretation), lends itself to the multi-cultural nature of the area. At one time, the main players were Indians, Mexicans, and Anglos. (Tres Linguas). In the current history, even more cultures have found their way here. Becoming downright crowded with cultural aspects. In days of old, farming, ranching and hunting were the mainstays. Then came the miners and more civilization. Real schools, stores, roads, motor vehicles. Nowadays, the farms and ranches are mostly gone. The mines closed and sealed. Modern roads and byways, UPS, FedEx and other services have arrived. Most all modern conveniences are available. Motels, restaurants, RV parks, camping areas, vehicle repair facilities, and even fresh vegetables. It's not the middle of nowhere anymore, but there is still plenty of "wild country" left to explore and admire. Raft trips, Jeep tours, and horseback rides are available. Nature walks, birding expeditions, mountain climbing and the like can be arranged with little effort. And the scenery!! Sunrises and Sunsets unequaled literally take your breath away. Absolutely gorgeous!

Sunny outlook

Attended my first JDSFT team meeting at a hip bowlings alley on the 16th Mall in Denver, it was good to meet some of my fellow riders along with understand the what the team is all about. The biggest thing the team will be doing this year besides racing is supporting local MS Society and the Tyler Hamilton Foundation. Looks like I should start my fundraising efforts NOW!

The weather has taken a turn for the better and the roads are beginning to dry out but it will be weeks before the trials are going to be dry. Rene is spending one of her last trips in Coldgary this week (-12 C with light snow) and is missing out on this great weather. I did get out for a short ride this morining.

TIv3 update:
Waukon is a city located in Allamakee County, Iowa. As of the 2000 census, the city had a total population of 4,131. It is the county seat of Allamakee County. Waukon and Decorah (17 miles to the west) were named for Chief Waukon Decorah, a Ho Chunk who cooperated with whites during the Black Hawk War and whose people were subsequently forced out of Wisconsin into Northeast Iowa. Waukon is located at 43°16'8" North, 91°28'45" West (43.268889, -91.479212). I plan on visiting the House of Clocks to calibrate my time piece when passing thru.

Staying low

The weather is turning for the better as the snow seems to be melting off the road. Maybe I'll drag myself out for a ride this week.

More or Less!?! - around the corner.

Off to the first mtg of the new team.

Skiing with Dad

Spent the weekend skiing with my Father, it was nice to ski high on the mountain to avoid the masses.

Looking toward the base.

Dad at the top of the t-bar

Sharing

It has been one of those weeks that seems to good to be true. My wife and I got to ski the all day Sunday together while the kids were off skiing with there respective classes. All four of us on the mountain at once - something to look forward to. Rene has been quasi-working from home which has given us sometime to workout together, today we ventured to the GMRC for a spin class then a quick weight session and even squeezed in a game of horse. Tomorrow we planned a 10 mile run but I may opt for a ride as the weather is going to be great. It is wonderful having her around this much and sharing the things that brought us together in the first place. Only a few weeks of this before she starts the new job - I am going to take advantage of it though.

TIv3 Information:
Decorah is a city located in Winneshiek County, Iowa. As of the 2000 census, the city had a total population of 8,172. It is the county seat of Winneshiek County. Decorah is located at 43°18'06"N, 91°47'25"W (43.301795, -91.790218). Check out the Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum.

Pic from morning ride

This is how I spent the morning as the kids attended school.

Southward bound

The Mas-o-Menos planning session at the Irish Rover went well, after a few pints of Guinness the critical decisions were made and we left to the Pogues ringing in our ears. There is a vacancy if you are brave enough to make the trip.

I was able to venture out to tackle the roads for short ride this morning. Some ice and a bit of snow but for the most part clear roads.

Mayor!

Clay Henry

New Team for 2007

I am racing for JDS Sportcoaching Factory Team for the upcoming season. The focus of the team will be in the 35+ races (open and 4s) and in raising money for the MS Society.

Got out for a short ride today with some warmer weather and dry roads.

Warmth Cometh

Bookended the weekend with two nice long runs, felt good to get out this morning with the brisk air clearing the mind. The cold air has headed off to Texas, it is going to be in the 30s in Houston (Rene's trip for the week) while both Denver and Calgary will be about the same.

I've been sizing up my winter bike project - converting the IRD to a singlespeed. Should be a cool project and may even have it ready of TIv3. Maybe an Eno hub laced with Velocity deepdish rims.

The folks at TwinSix are teaming up with Waltworks to put out some shirts and 29er frames.

Frigid Frontrange Weekend

Spent most of the weekend indoors.

Went over to the GMRC to do back to back indoor cycling classes. Absolutely kicked my butt!

Sunday was off - watched Da Bears!!!!!

A warming trend for the week and more riding outside.

Mas-0-Menos approaching.

Moving Forward

The plan as it stands now is to remain firmly planted in the urban sprawl that is Denver.

It is good to have that behind us - 2006 was one of highs and lows but we made it and are much stronger for it!

More snow/cold tomorrow and an odd weekend home during ski season, so the weekend might include a couple long runs.

Wickedly Windy

A weekend of winter sports. I skiied with Fallon on Saturday morning on the old alpine fixed heel setup, then snowshoed with the family in the afternoon when the wind started whipping. Sunday was Fallon's first day of Bombers, so that means I have the whole day to ski by myself. The wind was brutal, two instructors told me that the wind chill at the top of the Colorado chair was -54 degrees! If you could stay warm on the chair up some of the slopes you had all to yourself (or at least you couldn't see anybody else). I should have gone XC skiing with Rene and Keagan, but I thought if my daughter was out skiing in the cold so should I.

The kids are headed back to school this week which means I can get some miles in before the next blizzard. Decisions been made but not finalized. My ACA appication is ready to be sent in, I better start training.

More Snow

More snow today, roughly 8+ inches at the house. I got my upper body workout today shoveling snow twice - once this morning and then again this afternoon. The mountains are getting some good snow so the weekend of skiing should be good. Might even take the snow shoes out, we'll see.

Brave enough?

Here are the primitive facilities from a fine eating establishment in the Big Bend region, are you in? Mas-o-Menos on Februry 16th.

Valley of the Sun

We made it back from our visit to the retirement mecca of the southwest, Mesa. The trip home made the whole trip worth it - one night on the rim of the Grand Canyon (supporting nationalize capitalism), drove by the Black Mesa and the Peabody coal mine (I thought some monkeys blew it up), spent the night in Moab (sans bike), drove Arches National park (those paved roads are sure nice), and followed the Colorado River into the heart of the Rockies. Missed all the snow in northern NM and someone even cleaned out our drive so I didn't have to shovel more snow.

As the plan currently stands, I will be purchasing a new coat from the fine folks at Melanzana so I don't make it on his list of gapers for wearing my father's 70s vintage ski parka while skiing at Breck. My wife did get asked if she wanted to move to Atlanta and Anchorage, passed on both. With all the snow on the ground and the lack of being able to get outside to ride, a warmer climate does seem appealing.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL

All is well in Denver, we dug out and the plan for the future is being set in motion.

2007 is going to be a great year.

Peace to all!

Snow Day

Schools cancelled and lots of snow means no riding outside today.

Leg Burn

Riding the Poma lift - Fallon solo/Me with Keagan

Riding with Keagan

Spent some time skiing with the kids early at the base of Peak 9 - utter craziness! After a few runs of snow plowing with Keagan my legs were like noodles. Fallon got her ski legs back and is ready for a season of showing up dad. Skied with my Dad after sending the kids back to hot tub. We did some laps at Peak 10, my dad was timing us - 12 mins per lap. Then worked our way back over to Peak 8, skiing the trees/bumps off the 6 chair. Good way to make the legs burn as my dad is a non-stopper and we are skiing hard from top to bottom. This year I plan on working on my Tele technique and ski some harder stuff.

I was informed that we will be skiing through the end of March this year, so I have been planning my long runs/rides for up in summit county. Then again we have to wait and see if a move is in the future. I think our preference is to stay in Denver, but already two offers from Austin. We'll see what the week brings.

IN

Looks like I'm in for another long ride in Iowa!

Spent the day working on my Tele turns with Fallon after spending a night of barstool time at a new place in Breck called the Mother Lode. We figured out our life after a few too many pints.

Time to get training.

Switching Sports

Sunset on the Ten Mile Range

Heading to Breck to end a nice week of transition with a weekend of knee dropping fun - plus a few pints with the wife to discuss our future. Hopefully we can have a plan by sometime next week.

TIv3 lottery results will be up sometime tomorrow. Hope my bro and I both get in.

Transition Time

After finishing up with the season, it is time for me to relax and prepare for the start of my program in January. I plan only a few low intensity rides and quick weightlifting sessions to get me ready to hit it hard. I have found that as I get older (over 40) that I can't afford to take much time off, therefore I keep at it year round. I try and stay fresh by taking some mini-breaks throughout the year and setting my goals for spring and fall giving me the summer to enjoy cycling.

No news on if where I will be racing next year, but not heading up to Calgary. Narrowing it down between here and Austin.

Seasons Over!

I finished up the year of racing with the State Cyclocross Championships up near Longmont at the Xilinx facility. I raced decently and finished mid-pack, kind of how the rest of the season went. I wasn't in the top ten in the Boulder Series so no call ups for me, a nice third row start position. Had a good start to the bottle neck of slippery mud and ice, then just settled in and rode as hard as I could passing a few riders.

My father and his wife brought the kids up to watch the race. It was nice for him to see what cyclocross is all about. I opted to pass on the Singlespeed race in favor of lunch in Boulder with the family. I think is was a good choice, only one bike to clean.














Thoughts on the CX season:
-I didn't get points the I wanted to get an automatic upgrade to Cat3 in CX.
-Riding a rigid 29er as my mtn bike of choice improved my handling skills.
-My starts were better than last year.
-The courses are getting better and harder every year.
-Raced 19 CX races including skipping two weekends (Gunni & USGP)

All in all a great time and can't wait to start racing again.

What a back drop!

After a crazy week, full of highs and lows, I raced down in Morrison. It was chilly and the course was snow covered with a few patches of ice. I was not really motivated to race but I knew I needed to get out and shake off the weeks events. I got a third row position, which then I went easy for the first lap just trying not to get tangled up with others. Turned up the heat a bit and ended up with 19th in the Cat4 race. Not to bad for really not trying and just having some fun. The course was awesome with only a small section of mud and one stretch of ice (which caused me to get an upclose visual inspection of the tire treads of my competitors).

With backdrops like this for races, it makes it hard to imagine moving.

Postcards sent!!

Single Speeding

Race the SS cat a couple of weeks ago and held my own until the legs couldn't spin fast enough to keep up with 3rd/4th place. I was pushing a relatively easy gear (32x15) which was good for the technical sections but not as good for the flats.

Two more races until the end of the season. The snow arrived this week here in D and in the mountains. I will have to wait for three more weeks until its time to get back to freeheeling it.

Change!?!

They say change is good, but........
We found out this week that after a 6 year run in Colorado, it may be coming to an end. They are closing my wife's office as of January 5th. This will open up those opportunities that were unotherwise not considered, like me actually finding a job and contributing to society (okay thats a stretch). At least my wife has stayed connected over the past 6 years and the thought of being without a job isn't the problem. What is at issue is where we are going to be in 3 months.

Here are our options:
-A long commute to the Republic of Boulder
-A chilly location down the mountain from Banff
-A place we have already called home once
-A couple faraway locations here or here (Would race Merida series instead of TIv3)
-Or back to the land of Milk and Honey

Taking the day off today to get some domestic chores completed.

Where did the time go?

I don't know where I been or what I have been doing that has kept me away from updating lately. After the forced rest, I have started to ramp back up to finish off the season. Last week was a great week of training with lots of hard efforts that left the legs a tad stressed for Saturday's race. Settled for 18th as I couldn't seem to stay with the guys passing me. Legs came around for Sunday's race which I moved it up a few places to 11th. It always seems my Sunday race is better, both mentally and physically.

This week is looking to be another great week of training, even with Rene enduring the cold up in Calgary. Headed to GMRC for a new spin class today as the wind was howling so bad that the idea of hauling a small child in the trailer wasn't going to happen. The new lady really understands cyclists and gave me a pretty good workout, I did stay an extra 30min to knock out some more hard efforts.

With the CX season still in full swing, it has been hard to think much past December for those 2007 events. But some I am at least considering:
Mas O Menos - time to get back to the roots
TIv3 - ?, some unfinished business
Dirty Kanza - fits nicely into the master plan
24hr in the Sage - missed last year
Salida Ominum - need to do it again

USGP Men's race

Trebon chasing (and almost catching the leaders)

The leaders cruising by

USGP Women's Race

Katie Compton

Katie and Lynn coming up the hill

Week of recovery

I have felt tired and on the verge of sickness for the past 2 weeks, so this week I took it easy. A couple spins out on the road enjoying some crisp fresh air. I went to bed early and slept in every morning, at least until the kids dragged me out of bed to make breakfast. I feel great now, but still plan on not racing this weekend so as to finish out the second half the season with some positive results.

Volunteered yesterday at the Derailer Bicycle Collective. I helped get their new shop ready for a Dec 1st opening. Keags and I will be heading that way every Thursday to lend a hand.

Crazy 'Cross

Check out this picture from the Boulder Cx #2 Single Speed race.

Boulder UCI

Here are the leaders.

Photo from Sunday

Naomi making it look easy as she begans the painful running section of Boulder Cx race.

Found this picture here which only has picture of the really fast people.

Photos from Saturday

I forgot my camera both days and forget my new phone takes pictures so here are a few I found at a THF site. No pictues of Paddy.

Naomi running the sand pit.

I am slogging through the mud!

'Cross weekend update

Arapahoe Ridge Cross Results
Me - Poor start put me in the middle of the field of 35+, Cat4s. Churned mud for 45 mins finishing in 18th out of 33.
Paddy - 9th in the Cat3s but officially DNF'd by the Officials due to some screw up.
Naomi - Rocked the house with a 3rd place finish in the Open Womens division.

Boulder Cross #2 Results
Me - Another poor start put me in a position to chase down riders in the 35+, Cat 4s, finished 28th out of 57 riders. Doubled up and raced the Single Speeds where I finished 7th out of 9.
Paddy - No dnfs, but instead had him finishing 3rd.
Naomi - The official results have her coming in 15th out of 24 in the Open Womens division.
Noonan - Showed up and finished 13th racing in the Mens Open race.

A great weekend! Raced bikes, drank beer, cleaned bikes, drank beer, and did over all over again.

No racing until Sunday, so a day of rest and then back to work on those starts!

First Snow

The snow came yesterday, so I headed the gym for a quick workout on the stationary bikes. I rode to a video from Boulder that starts at the Res, climbs up Lee Hill Rd, and loops back to the Res via Nelson Rd. A decent dvd for mindless indoor workouts. The roads were ridable after my indoor session, maybe a quick spin this evening.

The 411 on the weekend of 'cross.
Sat: Arapahoe Ridge Cross
Sun: Boulder Racing

B/F Cross

Brecktober Cross - I felt good during warmup and the course seem pretty fast so I was hoping for a good finish. Had a great start and was going well untill the first runup where I t-boned some guy who decided to dismount sideways across my bow. Went from 5th to 15th in a matter of seconds. Ended up 20th after a futile chase back to the front. A friend Kevin ended up with the W. Cooled down a bit and went back watch the races with beer in the backpack. Drizzle and snow rounded out the rest of day. The family joined me in time for a dinner of mexican in downtown Breck.

Frisco Cross - There was snow on the ground in Breck and I was preparing for a sloppy day of 'cross, but by the time I made it to Frisco the ground was dry. The course was a great one with a lot of variation - a road climb, sandy run-up, and speedy descent. With a short warm-up I picked a second row starting position. Good start up the paved hill and hit the dirt in around 6th place, lost a little ground as I struggled up the first of many run-ups. I found my groove and raced into 7th place.

Snow is in the forcast for the next few days which is ok as I have domestic chores to catch up on.

Two days of racing in Boulder this coming weekend. Looks like Paddy and Naomi are cruising through Boulder on Sunday. I will be bringing the Hoegaarden!

Off to the mountains!

A weekend in the thin air racing 'cross.

Its a plum theme?

Will continue to tweak the colors...

Who Gar Den

The Belgiums make a fine wheat bier, since 'cross season is in full swing this has become a staple to my training table (or back deck). The weather took a turn to full on fall earlier in the week. I had to deal with some issues regarding running, spin class, or riding in the cold. As always, riding in the cold damp weather is better than sitting in a small dank room with sweaty bodies on a bike going nowhere. I headed out yesterday morning with the temp hovering around 35 degrees and a fog hanging over Rooney Valley. Took the Waltworks out dressed in wool and enjoyed the stillness of the early morn. Something about riding with lights by yourself listening to only your breath that makes getting up at 5 am somewhat bearable. A shot of espresso doesn't hurt either.

Heading to Breck for a weekend of 'cross. The course is back to the Nordic center for a big loop of pain. I was hoping for a little snow or at least some bad weather up there but I think it should be a glorious weekend. If I can stay sober Sat eve, then I will head to Frisco to finish off the double. I am going to play hooky on the kids last soccer games.

Running Related

No 'cross racing for me this weekend as I get kid duty while Rene is off to run the Danielesque Marathon. The race is two loops at White Ranch, which turns out to be 27.6 miles of up and down.

I will be missing the races in Gunnison again this year, I think it is 3 years running that I have had a conflict. This means some training and catching up on house projects.

Good news for the Derailer Bicycle Collective as they have found a new space.

Some Randomness...

Spirits are lifting and things are back to normal. No plans for riding today as I feel whooped but will manage to get some bike work done with the help of my ever present assistant Keagan.

The winner of the Large Brewery Company competition at this years Great American Beer Festival was none other than the Pabst Brewing Company. Go figure, but with their line of beers you can't go wrong. I personally have been drinking Belgium whites in order to become one with my 'cross persona.

Since Austin, we have routed a computer feed to the hi-fi for the sole purpose of listening to KEXP and Virgin radio. Also, found sound bluegrass sites and plugged into the Dead for a day.

I am going to try and revamp the site soon, as I am growing weary of it.

Looks like 700see is available, I plan on getting a copy.

Weekend to forget

On the racing front, a definate weekend to forget! After a week home with sick kids and probably catching some strain of sickness, I shouldn't have raced. But, excercising poor judgement without the aid of alcohol is a downfall on mine. Race one, after a small mental battle with a fuzzy head, I line up in the second row. The start went great as I was in the top ten right behind friend and the winner of the race. Decent first lap, then the energy was suck from my body and I fought hard just to stay in the race. Finished a disappointing 26th!! On a brighter note, a BKB clad team mate was cheering me on! Happens to be this guy's brother. Race two, single speeded myself into utter pain and dehydration. Skipped racing Sunday because the head was fuzzier than ever, also Fallon was still sick and the stress of her slipping back into another bout of ADEM was more than I could cope with. She is back at school and seems to be recovering okay.

Some random sites to check out:
We all need to ride this way!
BBR not PBR

A couple of weeks of training before the next race, hopefully the kids will remain healthy and I can remain focused.

Bitter

I have been following the recent string of comments on 'cross racing in CO. It makes me a little perplexed that so many racers are complaining about the way the courses are set up. We all race for different reasons, I race to be challenged and every course should provide an adequate degree of difficulty. That may mean some tight sections with twisiting corners, sand/gravel pits or long road sections. If I knew every course was going to be laid out exactly the same, I would opt not to race every weekend. That said, when living in Austin there was one 'cross race for the season and we were just happy racing our bikes. I become tired of the cycling community in CO some times because they feel that the promoters should make each race perfect for them, I have news the world is not a perfect place. Enough.

One kid is still sick and the lack of bike time has made me edgy!

'Cross pictures and impending doom

Found some pictures of me racing down in Colorado Springs here, here, and here. Professional pictures are on this site. Found this cool 'Cross site from a guy in Boulder.

Part of my job is to take care of small childern when they are unable to attend school due to illness, so today instead for riding I am home tending to Fallon who caught her brother intestinal virus. Lots of vitamins, water, EmergenC, and coffee to help me stave off this weight loss opportunity.

If I don't get sick, it looks like a double dose of 'Cross - Boulder on Saturday and Littleton on Sunday.

Season Opener

The 'Cross season started!
Drove to the Springs yesterday to partake in the first race of the season, it was well worth the drive down. The morning start brisk with the course still a tad muddy from the previous nights rain. Pre-rode the course to determine which bike, IRD or Waltworks, would be called up for the first race. Ran the IRD for the first race because it has gears and I knew I could ride the muddy section on it. Race one started great as I was with the lead group to the first set of barriers, then completely lost contact as the body went into shut down mode. Recovered and found myself painfully chasing down riders. Ended up with a 12th place finish not that far off the lead. I was hoping to capture a top ten finish but overall happy. Race two, the Waltworks got the call! I geared it with a 32x15, which was the perfect all around gear. I suffered like a dog and ended up finishing 17th. It is great to be back in race mode!

No race today as Rene is running the Backroads Marathon. I plan on taking the kids to the race in Morrison.

I am sorry to hear that the EnduroSnob Epic has been cancelled, it looks like the focus will be changed to hard efforts in order to finally get my lazy butt moved up a class in 'cross.

Beer, bikes, and bands!

So, I have just posted some quote and pictures since returning from what I still consider home. Time for a short recap of the madness. We tried to deal with the experience from the saddle of a bike as much as possible. The fest was great but a crush of people tended to overwhelm and in my opinion take away from the music. My favorite bands were Nickel Creek and The Greencards, both bluegrass bands. Missed the South Austin Jug Band! All in all a fun was had at ACL Fest.

Austin is one of those cities that I come away from inspired. I am not sure if it is the vibe or maybe just the people I hang with. The King of Brykerwood has been waging a war on McMansions that have been ruining the charm of central Austin. With a new ordinance, it looks that his efforts paid off. He says his political ambitions end there, even though Brykerwoods has been the springboard for mayor.

Also, caught up with the folks from Orrmanor. I am so happy after all these years to have had someone like him as a mentor when I started racing on the road. We were able to grad a few pints at the Bark&Quack, a few Mexican Martinis at Trudy's, and finished of slamming a beer at Barflys. I did get turned around on the way home riding aimless for 30 mins until finally passing the old house on Salado. The bike almost took control and rolled me to the gate, if it wasn't for the monolith in the backyard I would have done it. Rene was able to run the next am with D's wife as he tended to the kids (I left his house around 3am and the kids woke at 5:40am).

Summary of places I visited: Homeslice, Deep Eddy Cabaret, Mangias, Toy Joy, Wheatsville, Texadelphia, Trudys, Bark & Quack, Amys, Kerby Lane, Central Market, Barflys, plus many more!

Hope to visit again when the humidity is low and I have time to take some long bike rides to places like Elroy (not really)!

Cross season starts on Saturday. Let the pain begin......

ACL Fest

Some bicycle related photos from the madness Austin calls Austin City Limits Fest!

"Ginger Rogers did everything that Fred Astaire did. She just did it backwards and in high heels."
Ann Richards

The leaves are changing

It seems the more free time I have the less time I spend on the computer. The weather has been great for the past few weeks, which means heading out and enjoying it.
Some pictures from the route I took on Labor day, a nice easy 11 mile grind up to Boreas Pass. The leaves were changing with absolutely clear blue skies. My wife actually took the pictures on her run up this road the day before I rode it. It was my job to see how many miles she ran ~ 22 miles!

Making a quick trip to Austin for ACL fest (has nothing to do with an orthopedic convention). Plan on meeting up with the old gang and visiting some drinking holes (Bark&Quack, Deep Eddy, Crown&Spanker, and Trudy's). Might try to hook up with the folks at OrrManor for a ride/run. It will be a nice break before 'cross season kicks in.

Frozen Fixed Fete coming the weekend after cross!

A quick ramble

I have been logging some weekday miles but nothing of note. Just enjoying the time to ride my bike. The tandem has been getting a bit of work this week with only two trips to school by car (weather & flats were to blame). I have hauled recycling down a couple of times and flipped the trailer for the first time, good thing it was only loaded with papers.

Cross season is only three weeks away! The folks at Mob replaced the bottom bracket in the IRD and we are ready to roll. Before I can think about cross, I have to start training for a trip south to ACL. We will be visiting the King of Brykerwood for the weekend, which means lots of beer and coffee with a visit from Don Julio. More details later.

Received an article from the Chicago paper stating that it is against the law to ride a bike without brakes. That means all those fixed gear riders cruising the streets are breaking the law. Does this mean that the folks riding at the Northbrook Velodrome are also breaking the law?

I haven't been following the Vuelta, but I have been watching the Tour of Britain. Kristian House, ex-Violet Crown Junior, is riding in the top twenty.

All for now, heading to the high country for the long weekend.
Peace!

School started

This is how we commute and ride.

Yesterday was my first taste of the good life.
I rode multiple times that included 3 trips to shool to drop-off/pick-up small children. First ride include a fast ride to school with two children with a solo ride home. Then headed out for my first solo ride during the day. Maybe I should have spent the time being productive but I have been waiting for this moment ever since I began my slacker lifestyle. Was able to ride for two hours over some hilly terrain. Got home and rushed back out the door to pick pick the little one up from school. So, soloed down and hauled one child home. Relaxed for a few hours before heading back down to school with the little one to pick up my stoker. Rode home and called it a day. I get to do this twice weekly until the end of school.

Official end of Summer

Lost my stoker to school today!

Last week of summer

It has been a long week and a half. My mother was in town for the Denver Grand Prix which she was working the Formula BMW races. It was interesting hanging out at the track watching motor racing for three days. She was able to extend her stay for the week which meant logging of many early morning miles on the bike with a little wine in the evenings.
Headed out of town for a weekend of camping at Steamboat Lake (just north of Steamboat Springs). A great way to end the summer!

Its been a long time

A first in about six years happened. My wife and I went out for a glass of wine paired with some chocolate and atmosphere. Then this morning we rode our bikes together. Just a easy jaunt before Rene headed off to work. Life is still great!

More training

Life is too short not to have big beers! Here I am enjoying some quality family time with the kids having pizza at Proto's in downtown D. Training has been modified to include more beer and less miles as 'cross season is approaching.

Training?

A week of training by using the age old method of drinking beer instead of water to improve tolerance to dehydration. Tuesday, SC and Notorious met at mi casa for a ride to the watch some baseball. Rolled through the burbs of D and diced it up with some downtown urban riding. Watched the game, more beer, then sprinted to Mead St for a meal in a glass. Rode home and fell asleep on the couch. Great night!
So, Thursday rolled around, I did some more. Drove to D, parked the car, rode to Stranahans for the tour and a sample. Cellarrat was celebrating a bday. Meandered down to Swankys for PBRs and talk of cycling. Meet some folks from Flying Dog and Salvagetti. Then off to Pints Pub for a pint. Left Cellarrat to consume more as I headed home. On the ride back to the Westy, I saw large heads being projected on to the side of a building - freaked me out a bit.
I accomplished the goal, as today I am dehydrated!

Done

I having been feeling a tad sorry for myself as the events over the past few months have affected many things. Most of all for me, my racing calendar. Riding has been kept at the forefront as a way for me to deal with stuff and work out those day-to-day issues. Now I realize that life is full of great things and that the health of my family is more important than some silly race marked on my calendar. That said, time to ride my bike and get back in the swing of this blogging thing.

Peace,
Mike

41

Minimal free time

Have been busy with my domestique lifestyle and of course watching the Tour, so my posting/surfing has been limited. Well, no CB100 this year. I hated to take it off the calendar but that is the way is has to be. The rest of the calendar for the summer is under scrutinty also. Looks like mainly local rides and races with a serious ramp up for cross season.

Besides missing the CB100 this weekend, I am also missing one of my most favorite Texas rides. The ride from Austin to Luchenbach was always a must do when I resided in Austin. The rides starts from Freewheeling and meanders out to Luchenbach via the RealAle brewery. Check out the details.

The Wednesday night ride with the Denver Cruisers looks more appealing than the suffering of the Denver West ride.

Firecracker on the 4th

A great cycling weekend was had this past weekend as we celebrated the 4th of July. In honor of the 4th, I tried to get in 4 rides.

Loaded up the family on Saturday and heading off to the little mining village of Leadville. We rode the Mineral Belt trail that encircles the town. In the summer, the cyclists rule the trail whilst in the winter it is a cross country skiers paradise. It is only roughly 11 miles, with it split at half climbing and the other half descending. Then we poked around town, ate lunch, and shopped.

Sunday brought some clear skies in the morning so I headed out to climb Vail pass. It is a 10 mile descent from Breck to Frisco and 12 mile climb through Copper Mtn to Vail pass. I left early as to avoid the throngs of people. This is an easy climb compared to riding to the pass from Vail or any of the other area climbs, but it is still always enjoyable.

Monday was for doing a little pre-riding the FC50 course. Met up with SC and headed out for what turned out to be a bad idea. Made it up to the first section of single track off Boreas Pass road and the skies started to spit. By the time we made it to the first mine, it was sleeting. We trudged onward until we intersected the road to the Iowa Mine. There we made a downhill line to town. We quickly descended out of the rain/sleet and hit the road for an almost 40 mph cruise to town. The chill set in quickly but made it home in one piece. Missed the BlunDurd Hundurd up north (Happy Bday to Paddy!).

Sunday was a time for 50 miles of suffering. Actually, not much suffering just a long day in the saddle. I had a plan and I tried to stick to it, but the legs said something else. I started out at a moderate pace wanting to go easy on the first lap and then pick it up a little on the second. The legs felt good after the first lap which I completed in about 2hr 45 min. The second lap started well as I cruised the road section passing many of the guys/gals that blasted me on the previous downhill. Made it to the first real up and the legs couldn't turn the gear I had. It was faster to walk than try and pedal. I was pushing a 32x18 on a 29er which was the biggest gear of those I polled. I am sure the guy that won the thing was pushing a bigger gear than I. I made it to the finish feeling pretty damn good. I lost over 30 minutes compared to the first lap and ended up completing the 50 miles in just under 6 hours. Drank a beer at the finish and ate some veggie chile before the short ride home. More beer, a shower, more food, hot tubing with the kids, and topped off with fireworks. SC did a great job on his ride! The SS winner rocked the course in 4hrs 9 mins.

A great way to spend the long weekend.