An early lap with Trev's mob for a change on Saturday, call it social prostitution if you like. Good to catch up with Shorty, Rocket, GG, Jase, Liam, Mike, Ryan, Fuji-Trev and Felt-Matt and Captain Trev. The boys chased the Cougar this morning (couldn't catch her till the kinder), Nath joined in at the top of Channel, the north bound leg in Boundary enjoyed with a southerly assistance (fanning a fishy-bunny aroma away). Good to catch up with the crew and download data on the happenings (dud legs Tuesday and crook weather Thursday didn't allow Couldabeens consultation). Rocket is about to head off on holidays, a few will be keen for a podium finish in the next two weeks I reckon. Chief Trev runs a disciplined ship, no out-of-order attacks or breakaways, ace comradery at the conclusion too. A steady run up to the top of Boundary (till the tarmac runs out) then plug away the length of Lemnos-Cosgrove, Ford and Wanganui roads with just a short push into the wind in Rudd Rd. Noticed the amount of tarmac trauma in recent weeks? Lots of blisters on the boulevards, acne on the avenues and ruptures on the roads, a legacy of a wet winter and skinny Vic Roads budget? Rolled into the LemonTree to enjoy coffee and conversation, toast generously layed on by the hosts. A relaxed ride homeward after intercepted the 6.30's who'd coupled with the 6.45's, so u-turned for coffee take 2 and further fraternization, lots of talk on the direction and future of Saturdays ride.
A planned solo toaster lap on Sunday picked up Temple and Daniel into the fold. Just 3 made the decision to single file simple, a steadily building northerly was going to make hard work of the journey to the Emu. Unfortunately talk is off the agenda when line astern, concentration on the wheel ahead takes precedence so studied the detailed sculpture of Temple's Ridley ahead. Quite a push into the elements in the mid 30's, noticed Daniels new repositioning on the bike more akin to comfortable. Three quiet sighs turning south into Pine Lodge North Rd, a few seconds to take in fluid then into action again. A cracking pace southward and not half bad westward (nice positioning up the road by the lads to benefit those drafting) had the kilometres ticking over quickly. Another brief reprieve after the pub (to guzzle water, not beer) then on the gas again down to Mitchell, to find a somewhat spent Ryan heading north. (rapidly u-turning to join us) Great to have an extra pair of legs to share the assult down Mitchell as the wind had swung a little to the north west. A couple of groups were headed east, but things appeared a bit fuzzy by then, such was the tempo. The turn at Roubaix and the few kinks at Arcadia Downs seemed to point us more into pain, thankfully three others were shouldering the weight to avoid throwing a rod in Conrod. Like banging your head against a brick wall, it was lovely when it stopped, a caffine recovery at Degani's (polished service, trendy atmostphere, bike friendly outdoor setting but lukewarm coffee) for a post mortem, wallowing in the glow of 47k @,34.8 in 1.21.29, 1,123 calories, 67 cadence, 206 watts, 147 av HR (181 max) , 1,007 kj output and 42.5 max, thanks to the endless data from Mr Garmin. Cruised homeward but buckled at the Butterfactory, french toast scoffed to fill the tank.
A quite lap Monday, predicting a lack of P&W's (lots on a Dookie stage yesterday, 25km/h head-wind home) set course for a Channel-Boundary-Old Dookie lap. No records to set, enjoying a ride for the sake of it with a pink sunrise to aim at. Nearing the end of Channel a loose Beagle gave chase (at the same site of a recent Rottweiller fracas) but halted very rapidly with a faceful of water from my bidon. (Ranger phoned later in the day to eliminate a possible injury) Tommygun & Weapon the only P&W's were on a cruise south, Vince spotted driving the Cat train in Boundary Rd too. A little effort needed against a freshening westerly on the way home, at least Pickles was half asleep near his kennel. Gave the Monday evening lap a go at 6 (Liam and pooch on a run, Wookie running too at Tarcoola) BigMick and Wonny turned up, Hayles too. Glad I kitted up in the thermals, quite a chill in the air. Out past the golf club and along Wanganui & Ford, Big Mick had a big moment pulling a foot from the cleat, caused me a moment too, just a few cm off his wheel. Another moment on the turn into Boundary (from Old Dookie) when Wonny thought it was straight ahead (a touch of wheels and he kissed the tarmac gracefully) Funny how we become complacent and presume we're all on the same page. No damage thankfully. An un-eventful return home, but third time unlucky, BigMick lost a loose bidon at the railway crossing, Hayles skillfully kept upright despite flattening it. Enough excitement for one night.
Only 0.9 degrees on Tuesday, back to winter already? A dozen Couldabeens turned up at the shop, almost needed an introduction to Kel & Bo (on a sparkly new raBObank TCR now, not a bad fathers day prezzy....Ridley retired?) Daniel must have felt the cold, a rare sight in arm-warmers, nice to have Vince back and Dalton joining in. Passed the caution around about errant dogs, thankfully pooches were scarce. Must donate a spongue to Kenworth, there's a bike somewhere under the mud he's riding. We're motoring fast enough for Steve to stay on till Central Kialla now, Leon & Daniel did the Archer exit, Bo & Kel turned off at the highway. A gentle build up from Arcadia Downs to the finish, Vince was just playing with the sprinters (whilst Rockets' away, the monkeys will play) teasing GG till he burst a valve, but Dalton played the trump card on the line, none to match that fellas torque.
A mild afternoon, sunshine and barely a puff of breeze brought out the regular Hospital group and a gaggle of winter hibernators on Tuesday night. The bunch doubled in size on the trek to the Emu picking up the usual performers and a few new. (the young aromatic mobile chicane had re-appeared too, so I took the opportunity to extend the bunch's opinion that he wasn't welcome...semed to have worked) Olympic Steve and a few other fit souls joined in at the Emu, pairing up with Bomber, Robbo, Nath and Mitch to concentrate and congregate the horsepower. Nath lit the fuse at the Church lengthening the pack of 23, the other guns following suit for a fair workout. Dug deep to pair up with Sly for a stretch at 40, young Craig next to roll up to the business end. There was a brief repose in River Rd, but the lads got excited again, into the 40's when I got near the front, just the top guns driving the train while most hung on, speechless, breathless and praying. I felt like the tow ball for the next 6km, hanging on the back of the big engines (for all I was worth I should add), pulling the traliers along. The drivers at the front were steadily whittling down the numbers (turning tryers to more trailers) and I found myself about 9th approaching the finish with a long gap behind to a dozen scattered and struggling. An enjoyable chuckle on the way home with Jamie, Sean & co. The data download at home showed a 37.4 average at 254 watts on a 146 average heart rate so downloaded dinner to make up the 1148 calories lost.
Well, switch on the air-conditioner...temperature doubled to 1.8 degrees on Wednesday! At least there was 5 hot chics to warm up a lap at 6. Stace, Hayles, Cougs, Fee and Meags tapped out the usual course sharing the load and the chat (Fee and Meags still up early even on holiday ; take note Ayto and other doona snugglers!) A most-of-Mitchell monster turn at the front by Stace & H, Area 51 shot past in Mitchell, the TT boys just pipped us to central Kialla with Weapon in tow. A full harem then formed for the last 6k, Cougs lit the fire in Raftery Rd to set wheels humming, the femme fatales formation finishing fast, foss flagging. (four made good of time off with Friars brekky)
A huge contrast in temperature for Thursday morning, a 14 degree start has been but a dream for months. The wind wasn't backward in coming forward, blowing at 17km/h. Got out early (to get to work early) for a short lap of Old Dookie-Boundary-Channel , finding 8 or 9 Couldabeens at work into the wind approaching Boundary. A moderate ride suited, kind on a thumped knee from work yesterday.
A hasty rotation of tyres late Thursday afternoon (3000k of posterior pressure put a flat profile on the rear Vredestein) then off to the library to see who would emerge from hibernation. 14 were rolling rapidly out the Boulevard to Nath's tempo, so jumped aboard to yarn with councillor Dave, Dalton, Scotty and co. We should have wallowed i the glow of a 'world champion' hanging off the back, but the real champion (Steve) was welcomed out near the kennels. When he teamed up with Robbo and Bomber, all were waiting for the fireworks to go off, but mercy was shown (after Tuesdays' punishment?) with just a few steady build ups to the low 40's, enhanced and bearable with 11km/h of easterly wind assistance. 19 degrees had a unanimous vote of approval, the first time bare arms and legs had been out in a long while. Little sprinter is on the slow and sensible comeback trail, Axel turned up in Boundary Rd, a short chat with Paul but he's getting faster each ride. All had an extended wait for traffic at Melbourne Rd (allowed the heart rate to recover) but it was Nath, Dalton, Steigy and I towing the others for the next 3k. Kev bolted with 300 to go and held on for the honours, Nath 2nd and me happy with bronze.
Just a solitary Hard Man at the P&W start on Friday (seems most of the harem had retreated to RPM) but Cougs, Ryan & i turned up to keep him company. 23 degrees another shock to the system, all of us a tad overdressed for the occasion. A bit of a howler blew fron the NNE at 22k's so a slow build up out Old Dookie was in order (helped Dan the Man catch on from a late turn-up) It was difficult to coach the legs into life after a busy week but relief came on the turn into Boundary, hoist the mainsail me heartys. THM, Ryan and Dan were keen to enjoy the tail wind, Cougs and I took an exit via Channel Rd to start work early, Cougs powered into the wind to make it even earlier.
Week 39 474km 17,064 calories (6.5kg lentils) 32.3 average YTD 15,085 km
"The secret to life is honesty and fair dealing; if you can fake that, you've got it made"
Groucho Marx 1890-1977
Friday, September 28, 2012
Friday, September 21, 2012
Week 38
An interrupted morning routine caused a late get-away Saturday morning, head down and tail up to reach the Peppermill in time (and of course copped every red light on the way). Certainly bumped up the heart-rate, Mr Garmin informing the effort for the 4.8k's to the start line. Arrived with 33 seconds to spare to find Daniel inflating an errant tyre. Temple and Andrew had fronted, a great roll up of P&W's (Fee, Meags, Sootie, THM and Hayles) meant there would be some respite from the roster at the front. Temple beckoned (pleaded?) me to take the first shift, whereupon Daniel made sure the oxygen wasn't used for much chat! The WWW (whole wheel wizard) kept at least half his Ridley ahead till the first rotation 3.2 k's out, just in time to greet Dave's arrival. A little calm restored for the Mitchell Rd journey, but into Boundary and approaching River Rd up it went again. Cats were right on time and as usual Greendawg and Goose were lurking at the back with carbons on song (the little pooch carved 'em up at the end i'm told). THM dug deep shaking off the rust of not riding, the quick chicks performing admirably as always. Bit of a fight against the southerly when we turned into Ford Rd, but steady turns and steady pace ruled to get us home. Julie's swansong at the Butterfactory today (new owners next week), hope the hospitality stays. A great gassbag to end a great ride, the intimate details of hirsute legs discussed. To wax or not to wax? That was question!
The Fruitloop had come around again (No8 for me) the 100k chosen with Couldabeens as company. Plenty of familiar faces in parc ferme, a sea of bikes in all shapes and sizes. Teamed up at 8.30 with BigMat, Ro, WWW, Cougs, Weapon (made an honourary member for the day) Hoffy, Kylie and hubby Steve, letting the over-enthused take off, us to keep a smooth pack together out of harms way. At the Toaster turn we had 30+ tagged on the back (no doubt overwhelmed by our smoothness and class!) Took 20k's for WWW to finally commence rotation, unfortunately outsiders then eventually filtered through to the front to wreck rhythm. Always an uncomfortable feeling to share close quarters with unknown riders, especially those who cant hold a straight line, freewheel, yo-yo the speed and clear nostrils without consideration. (this feeling peaked with a brief inclusion of the aromatic one with the mobile chicane son) Several ones and twos were slowly being ejected from the front bunch (holding the high 30's i'm told) as we cruised toward the Yabba North metropolis. Even a big arrow pointing right on a bright yellow card needed subtitles for a few at the front (overshot the turn and would have continued east) With this bedlam, our team became fractured, infused with foreigners, so a bit of searching was on to re-unite. Saddleback sorted the bunch, a patchwork of green and canola was a good distraction from climbing. Into Dookie the cake and coffee was way more appealing than climbing hills, chose a brief chat with a few Muppets, a coffee to rejuevenate, a nature break then back on the Fizik for the trek west. Grouped up with Iggy, Weapon, Hoffy, Cougs, JT, Jum and Shawy to share the load, catching Simmo at Cosgrove (left behind from a bunch ahead and cramping). The rumble strips woke up the posterior, pleased to have a few k's of smooth tarmac thereafter. A steady pace for the run to the camel farm, down to Boral's quarry then the big haul of Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd. Hats of to the quick chicks and Shawy sharing the slog at the front (while others sat back), still catching & passing a few sufferers. Caught Rob near the Emu, showing signs of Mt Major wear (re-co hip on the horizon, all the best young fella) and passing a few still on the 50k gave us a great sense of achievement. Wanganui Rd was a welcome sight, Rudd Rd even better, Cougs winding up the pace to the cemetery (keen for sustinence as we all were) A big feed enjoyed, more familiar faces returned (well done Craig, Rob, Lance and many more taking on their first big distance). Another great Fruitloop (250 odd entrants) with tons of support, sponsorship, volunteers and community spirit to benefit Hospice. Liam had tangled with Axel's axle on the road home, both arrived bandaged, minus some elbow skin (but sense of humour intact). Great effort by Kev, Graham, Nev, Robbo and co tackling the 180.
The posterior was glowing a dull red Monday morning but legs weren't too bad. To avoid seizure, rolled up to the P&W's and had a great lap with the hardcore harem. Weapon & Cougs were tough enough to join in after a big effort yesterday, Fee, Stace & Meags made up the most attractive team. A considerate tempo was maintained, 9 Cats single filed past after River Rd. Avoiding the birdlife seems to occupy us all in the early days of spring, but at least they're visible. A good lap ended to start the working week, a great prescription to restore the legs.
Tuesday's forecast looked grim on Monday, an invite from Sootie to tap out an evening lap was appealing. Two new Tri's (Coota & Mick) fronted, Hayles along too (to show us all what smooth is) A mild 17 degrees inspired a toaster circuit with an abbreviated finish down Channel Rd. Mick rides a most unusual position, towering above us all (6ft5 and not so spinally flexible?) on a monster frame, Coota still a bit Muntzy-like in his apprenticeship, both having a go though, entering November's 70.3. 35k knocked over just as the evening chill set in, (a cleansing for the boys on a bender last night) a steady little ride bound to prosper as warmer and lighter evenings increase.
Quite low on kilowatts Tuesday am, no match for Couldabeens torque, so an early get away to roll out 25 at a moderate pace. An epic sunrise to watch heading out Channel Rd, big bunches of Cats and Goats in Boundary Rd, and a mentally challenged ute driver hell bent on not wasting a nano second overtaking between oncoming bunches. The skyline looked pretty ordinary heading home, a sense of urgency came 3k from home with the odd spit from above (a brief chat with Eggy shared a similar dislike of suffering a soaking) but we beat the wet home, the comfort of toast and coffee and the smug warmth of denying the elements their retribution.
I was the last to roll up to the P&W lap on Wednesday morning (cut time a bit fine) Meags, Fee, Stace, Weapon, Hayles and Tommygun were better organised, ready and waiting. Underway out Old Dookie in mild conditions, 9 degrees was quite a contrast for Tommygun, last week in Nevada's 34+ degrees must seem worlds apart. (top effort finishing an IM in that heat) Into Boundary Rd the TT's caught us near Channel Rd, we caught Fitzy and co-pilot at the bridges, Greendawg caught us in Mitchell, Cats passed us soon after, then Cats chased the dawg, we chased Cats, bunch split, TT's passed us, then we chased TT's..........follow me? In all the chasing and surging we'd lost Fitzy & partner and Meags so waited after Central Kialla for some distance. Fox had eased off the TT to assist, so it was full steam ahead again for Raftery. Some great assistance from Grasshopper, Minto, Sootie & Wizz up to Conrod straight and in the final few hundred Stace put the hammer down for the line, but Fee was the dark horse, and at full gallop, took the honours.
The drip drip drip from the downpipe in the early hours of Thursday morning spelled a sleep-in (a sneak peek out the window confirmed a fine mist falling) The rain did stop before 6, but i wasn't keen on a greasy road or cleaning the bike again. A east-northeast wind blew at 22 most of the day, probably scared many off the library group because only Robbo, Nath and Hamish turned up. Rolled out the Boulevard at 6 and collected Steve at DECA for a tough slog to the Emu. I found the going tough for a while, the young fellas had 2 or 3k better top end than my ordinary 33km/h, at least single filing allowed a little recovery (Steve happy to clutch on to the tail end) Quite a relief reaching the Emu, Hamish horsepower didn't let up though. I'd regained some composure when i had the lead again from the church to the toaster, then came more work hanging onto Robbo and Nathan in the mid 40's for Old Dookie. Steve started to drop in Boundary Road, no doubt the aroma of a nearby barbeque was a lure. The lads graciously eased the tempo to keep him on board (won't deny I was grateful too) and all had a chance to recover for another push after the highway. Speed steadily built in River Road, the big carrot was our progress at reeling in a bunch of 6 ahead. Sean, Jamie, Craig, Brendan, Paul and Gools were caught in Central Kialla Rd (some had set off at 5 on a long 75k lap) Sitting on behind them for a minute or two helped, Hamish & Robbo re-ignited the fire though at Archer Rd to test the tenacity. Volunteers for front of house were in short supply near the end and the bunch stretched out (worn down by distance and/or speed) behind Hamish to end 48 hard kilometres (36av, HR 154) with a good yarn rolling home.
The wind had dropped a little Friday morning (11-17 km/h) , 12 degrees was bearable, so was the company of quick chicks Meags, Cougs, Stace, Fee and Hayles, Dan the man showing up too, all ready at the roundabout at 5.55. A helping hand with the wind behind out Old Dookie, but work was to be done for the return home. All had a big dip for the next 22 clicks, the absence of Cats and 51 noted (only Supercats leaving town at 5.50) The weeks kilometers had added up in my legs and sit site, feeling decidedly second hand in Boundary and Mitchell, but such is the smoothness of the girls that a second wind came in the closing stages (despite a decent half biking by sockless Dan) There's still a few impatient drivers keen to fly past with centimetres to spare. Short on time for a coffee and chin-wag at the end, will enjoy making up for that chance Saturday.
Week 38: 440km 15,840 calories (211 heads of iceberg lettuce) 31.5 average YTD 14,611
"Wanting to be someone else is a waste of the person you are" Norma Jean Mortenson (Marilyn Munroe) 1926-1962
The Fruitloop had come around again (No8 for me) the 100k chosen with Couldabeens as company. Plenty of familiar faces in parc ferme, a sea of bikes in all shapes and sizes. Teamed up at 8.30 with BigMat, Ro, WWW, Cougs, Weapon (made an honourary member for the day) Hoffy, Kylie and hubby Steve, letting the over-enthused take off, us to keep a smooth pack together out of harms way. At the Toaster turn we had 30+ tagged on the back (no doubt overwhelmed by our smoothness and class!) Took 20k's for WWW to finally commence rotation, unfortunately outsiders then eventually filtered through to the front to wreck rhythm. Always an uncomfortable feeling to share close quarters with unknown riders, especially those who cant hold a straight line, freewheel, yo-yo the speed and clear nostrils without consideration. (this feeling peaked with a brief inclusion of the aromatic one with the mobile chicane son) Several ones and twos were slowly being ejected from the front bunch (holding the high 30's i'm told) as we cruised toward the Yabba North metropolis. Even a big arrow pointing right on a bright yellow card needed subtitles for a few at the front (overshot the turn and would have continued east) With this bedlam, our team became fractured, infused with foreigners, so a bit of searching was on to re-unite. Saddleback sorted the bunch, a patchwork of green and canola was a good distraction from climbing. Into Dookie the cake and coffee was way more appealing than climbing hills, chose a brief chat with a few Muppets, a coffee to rejuevenate, a nature break then back on the Fizik for the trek west. Grouped up with Iggy, Weapon, Hoffy, Cougs, JT, Jum and Shawy to share the load, catching Simmo at Cosgrove (left behind from a bunch ahead and cramping). The rumble strips woke up the posterior, pleased to have a few k's of smooth tarmac thereafter. A steady pace for the run to the camel farm, down to Boral's quarry then the big haul of Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd. Hats of to the quick chicks and Shawy sharing the slog at the front (while others sat back), still catching & passing a few sufferers. Caught Rob near the Emu, showing signs of Mt Major wear (re-co hip on the horizon, all the best young fella) and passing a few still on the 50k gave us a great sense of achievement. Wanganui Rd was a welcome sight, Rudd Rd even better, Cougs winding up the pace to the cemetery (keen for sustinence as we all were) A big feed enjoyed, more familiar faces returned (well done Craig, Rob, Lance and many more taking on their first big distance). Another great Fruitloop (250 odd entrants) with tons of support, sponsorship, volunteers and community spirit to benefit Hospice. Liam had tangled with Axel's axle on the road home, both arrived bandaged, minus some elbow skin (but sense of humour intact). Great effort by Kev, Graham, Nev, Robbo and co tackling the 180.
The posterior was glowing a dull red Monday morning but legs weren't too bad. To avoid seizure, rolled up to the P&W's and had a great lap with the hardcore harem. Weapon & Cougs were tough enough to join in after a big effort yesterday, Fee, Stace & Meags made up the most attractive team. A considerate tempo was maintained, 9 Cats single filed past after River Rd. Avoiding the birdlife seems to occupy us all in the early days of spring, but at least they're visible. A good lap ended to start the working week, a great prescription to restore the legs.
Tuesday's forecast looked grim on Monday, an invite from Sootie to tap out an evening lap was appealing. Two new Tri's (Coota & Mick) fronted, Hayles along too (to show us all what smooth is) A mild 17 degrees inspired a toaster circuit with an abbreviated finish down Channel Rd. Mick rides a most unusual position, towering above us all (6ft5 and not so spinally flexible?) on a monster frame, Coota still a bit Muntzy-like in his apprenticeship, both having a go though, entering November's 70.3. 35k knocked over just as the evening chill set in, (a cleansing for the boys on a bender last night) a steady little ride bound to prosper as warmer and lighter evenings increase.
Quite low on kilowatts Tuesday am, no match for Couldabeens torque, so an early get away to roll out 25 at a moderate pace. An epic sunrise to watch heading out Channel Rd, big bunches of Cats and Goats in Boundary Rd, and a mentally challenged ute driver hell bent on not wasting a nano second overtaking between oncoming bunches. The skyline looked pretty ordinary heading home, a sense of urgency came 3k from home with the odd spit from above (a brief chat with Eggy shared a similar dislike of suffering a soaking) but we beat the wet home, the comfort of toast and coffee and the smug warmth of denying the elements their retribution.
I was the last to roll up to the P&W lap on Wednesday morning (cut time a bit fine) Meags, Fee, Stace, Weapon, Hayles and Tommygun were better organised, ready and waiting. Underway out Old Dookie in mild conditions, 9 degrees was quite a contrast for Tommygun, last week in Nevada's 34+ degrees must seem worlds apart. (top effort finishing an IM in that heat) Into Boundary Rd the TT's caught us near Channel Rd, we caught Fitzy and co-pilot at the bridges, Greendawg caught us in Mitchell, Cats passed us soon after, then Cats chased the dawg, we chased Cats, bunch split, TT's passed us, then we chased TT's..........follow me? In all the chasing and surging we'd lost Fitzy & partner and Meags so waited after Central Kialla for some distance. Fox had eased off the TT to assist, so it was full steam ahead again for Raftery. Some great assistance from Grasshopper, Minto, Sootie & Wizz up to Conrod straight and in the final few hundred Stace put the hammer down for the line, but Fee was the dark horse, and at full gallop, took the honours.
The drip drip drip from the downpipe in the early hours of Thursday morning spelled a sleep-in (a sneak peek out the window confirmed a fine mist falling) The rain did stop before 6, but i wasn't keen on a greasy road or cleaning the bike again. A east-northeast wind blew at 22 most of the day, probably scared many off the library group because only Robbo, Nath and Hamish turned up. Rolled out the Boulevard at 6 and collected Steve at DECA for a tough slog to the Emu. I found the going tough for a while, the young fellas had 2 or 3k better top end than my ordinary 33km/h, at least single filing allowed a little recovery (Steve happy to clutch on to the tail end) Quite a relief reaching the Emu, Hamish horsepower didn't let up though. I'd regained some composure when i had the lead again from the church to the toaster, then came more work hanging onto Robbo and Nathan in the mid 40's for Old Dookie. Steve started to drop in Boundary Road, no doubt the aroma of a nearby barbeque was a lure. The lads graciously eased the tempo to keep him on board (won't deny I was grateful too) and all had a chance to recover for another push after the highway. Speed steadily built in River Road, the big carrot was our progress at reeling in a bunch of 6 ahead. Sean, Jamie, Craig, Brendan, Paul and Gools were caught in Central Kialla Rd (some had set off at 5 on a long 75k lap) Sitting on behind them for a minute or two helped, Hamish & Robbo re-ignited the fire though at Archer Rd to test the tenacity. Volunteers for front of house were in short supply near the end and the bunch stretched out (worn down by distance and/or speed) behind Hamish to end 48 hard kilometres (36av, HR 154) with a good yarn rolling home.
The wind had dropped a little Friday morning (11-17 km/h) , 12 degrees was bearable, so was the company of quick chicks Meags, Cougs, Stace, Fee and Hayles, Dan the man showing up too, all ready at the roundabout at 5.55. A helping hand with the wind behind out Old Dookie, but work was to be done for the return home. All had a big dip for the next 22 clicks, the absence of Cats and 51 noted (only Supercats leaving town at 5.50) The weeks kilometers had added up in my legs and sit site, feeling decidedly second hand in Boundary and Mitchell, but such is the smoothness of the girls that a second wind came in the closing stages (despite a decent half biking by sockless Dan) There's still a few impatient drivers keen to fly past with centimetres to spare. Short on time for a coffee and chin-wag at the end, will enjoy making up for that chance Saturday.
Week 38: 440km 15,840 calories (211 heads of iceberg lettuce) 31.5 average YTD 14,611
"Wanting to be someone else is a waste of the person you are" Norma Jean Mortenson (Marilyn Munroe) 1926-1962
Friday, September 14, 2012
Week 37
Without looking at the weather radar (or closely analysing the sky...in the dark), tank filled with porridge, tyres pumped, all kitted up, ready for a Saturday ride. Out the door, lights on, threw the leg over, two crank rotations then a spit from above. Then another. (mmmm?) One more. (you're imagining it) Two then three (get over it!) The next three k's were occupied by the arguments between Mr. Pessimist and Mr.Optomist fighting inside my skull. A fine misty but light rain fell at 45 degrees ably assisted by a strong westerly to put a gloss on the road but dull the enthusiasm. Mr Optomist won, always look on the bright side of life (whistle whistle whistle)Within a minute or so it had stopped, victory for perseverance (but a watchful eye kept on the now visible horizon) Pleasing to see BigMat at the Peppermill, blessed with 3 quick chicks attending (Stace, Cougs & Hayles), then Andrew's arrival, and with seconds to spare the gun gentleman Nev to make up the stating grid.
The catagory 2 climb out of Raftery Rd (near Edgewater Rd) was made tougher by both the head wind and the torque of BigMat, but legs were warmed up early by effort. Nice to enjoy the wind assisted hum of 14 wheels out Mitchell Rd, catching a late starting Steve near the dog leg. Oncoming Cats were stacked across Boundary Road resisting the force of the 24-37km/h westerly (makes up for the lack of hills), a bit of relief in the momentary shelter of trees helped our drive northward, but the hard yards were to come in Ford Rd. Nev worked double shifts of kindness at the front for a lot of the treck west, all others performing well in the 30's. No cause for concern seeing a speed camera being set up near Matilda Drive, there wasn't enough watts into the wind to score a ticket. The muppets were grinning with the wind behind them passing DECA, lots of grins in our team came turning south into Rudd Rd. out of the head wind, with coffee & toast soon to be enjoyed at the Butterfactory (will miss Julie's hospitality though with a change of ownership soon) Usual exhuberant conversation amongst the crew, joined by Sootie then Temple, Norm, Chris & others from the 6.45 group.
Cougs had organised a great team for a Fruitloop prologue on Sunday, a handy WSW tail breeze for the trip out too. An ace roll-up of BigMat, Ro, Meags and Fox, Cougs, Fee, Norm, Chris the Pom, Temple & Daniel made up the pack for the eastward roll to Dookie, taking the Kellows Rd leg to avoid the pair of dive bombing magpies. A short bit of Roubaix section near Cosgrove (road ripped up for repairs) then the haul up the Alp d'Dookie (unaccustomed as i am to hiils). A brief confab at the shop (and a pause for drinks, eats, loo etc., an early return to Shepp for Daniel & Temple) then out east to face more inclines, some taking on the schoolies circuit, others the tarmac toward Devenish. The brave scaled Duggans Rd, all then headed west back to Dookie, canola stretched acoss the hills for some worthwhile visual distraction (photo proof above). Just a short halt in town (avoiding muscles locking up) then all aboard for a slog into a south westerly home. Nice to have some good engines at the front, Fox aboard the TT Giant, Big Mat on Avanti, and great turns by all the girls got us all back to enjoy well earned refreshment at Friars.
Turned up to the P&W's Monday to flush the legs of hill memories, Dan the Man (direct from a very green pasture) was commencing Canberra preparation, Princess was bedding in a hot pair of 90mm SRAM carbons and Meags bold enough to ride again straight after the Dookie assult. Winter had revisited with 0.2 degrees, bands of low fog lay on Old Dookie Rd, riding through them looked like the opening sequence of Dr Who. All were keen just to roll the legs over and take a shorter course via Channel Rd to home. A most considerate start to the week. A big cheer for Tommygun, finishing in the 70.3 championships in Vegas in 34+ temperatures over the weekend, one tough vegetarian! Big cheer too for Nev's excellent 3rd at Ballarat.
Monday nights' sleep was as rare as Muntzy riding straight, an early work start too meant rolling out at 5.30 to knock 30k on the head and knock some demons out of mine. Climbed aboard the Prozac-mobile and headed out Channel Rd, a moderate improvement on yesterdays temperature, but 2.4 degrees is still a bit short. Quite the fat cat pack heading south in Boundary Rd, numbers are up with spring in the air and a little more daylight. Vince was playing Casey Jones on the 51 train as I took a trip down the Hill Rd memory lane (as narrow as I remember when it was a regular course). Good to roll out a lap contemplating life's ups and downs (and clearing the downs) One or two fellow bike tragics were out along Ford Rd in the early hours, Captain Col and a compact crew outbound near the golf course as I rolled inbound .
Lots of afternoon sun drew many out of hibernation on Tuesday night. Dave, Scotty, Craig, Rob, Liam, Sav, Dalton, Trev (back from from Broome but minus some broom broom) Nath, Hamish and Mike made up the starter pack, lots more joined on as we headed east. Kev, Mitch, Bomber, Steigy, olympian Steve (back from Belgium with a couple of ace wins), little Sprinter back in action after his canine calamity, and half a dozen more swelled the ranks to make 24 at it's peak. Lighter longer now, can even spot the gravel on the corners. The usual offenders kept the pace up, felt like the fridge door was left open several times over the course (glad i kitted up with a base layer). Bit of an embargo on rotation several times, some of the young-un's getting greedy on the front. Dave launched his sinature attack at Mt Nicolaci, lasting nearly to Roubaix corner was a good effort. I'd resigned to sitting back tonight (couldn't have matched all that youthful enthusiasm anyway) with Sundays' Fruitloop on the horizon. 5th was a good score considering, 37.3 average pretty handy too.
Wednesdays' P&W roll call mustered Chris the Pom, Cougs, Fee, Meags, Troy, Hayles and Sootie to tap out 30k's. Another fresh morning but the promise of sunshine with an early dawn and a clear sky was optomistic. Nearing the Pub Dan had caught on (a chase brought on by dodgy alarm clock) making up an even eight. The quick chicks performed well, shame Sooties restored knee still needs a bit more care. TT's were spotted at Central Kialla Rd and given right of way, Cougs made sure they didn't gain any ground, in fact reeling them in a few hundred metres. A smooth lap in all, too smooth for pussycats to catch.
Put an appearance into Thursdays' Couldabeens, as did Trav, Shorty, Vince (on a damp 51 reprive) Chris A (getting hitched in 2 weeks) Kenworth, Nick, Ryan, Rocket, Trev, Temple and Leon...even Dalton upped the standards joining in. On the roll-out several noticed the distant light behind, who else but the (ever) late Daniel (almost started a fundraiser for a new alarm clock). Courtesy called a wait for the straggler, eventually all grouped for the tour east to Boundary Rd. The south wester took its toll on the way to Mitchell, Temple losing steam on the turn so I played tow truck for a bit till he recovered. A crook call for a car at Central Kialla split the bunch but reformation was swift. Adios to Leon and the late Daniel at Archer, the rest continued for the Raftery finish. Vince took the front out of the Conrod dip and set the singles singing early (he may need to phone AMI for that premature problem?) Plenty of horsepower from Kenworth, Dalton and co with a 100 to go, managed to just crawl past them, but had Rocket nipping at my heels at 54km/h (who graciously threw it in neutral a whisker before the line)
P&W numbers were down to just Stace, Sootie and Hayles on Friday. 1.9 degrees was too shy for Spring, but a lap beckoned to finish the week. Stace's chain needs oil, creaking under the stress of horsepower, Hayles (suffering the sniffles) belted out monster turns in silky smooth style, Sootie's knee must be coming good, no slouching there either. Spied Leon on a solo out of Channel Rd, Steve too about to arrive home after an anti-clockwise tour. Very pleasing to see well what lies ahead with the rising sun casting an orange wash over the canola on Mitchell Rd , far better than the dark and chilly/windy view only a month ago.
Down to Arcadia Downs when 9 puddy tats finally caught and passed, the tail end becoming quite "up close and personal" in the drive forward (bit blinkered by ambition?) A good session to end the week, missed the usual coffee and yarn, a slave to works' roster.
Week 37 395km 14,220 calories (6.2kg roast chicken) 32.1km/h average YTD 14,171km
"Man, when you lose your laugh, you lose your footing" Ken Kesey. US Author ("One Flew Over the Cookoos Nest") 1935-2001
The catagory 2 climb out of Raftery Rd (near Edgewater Rd) was made tougher by both the head wind and the torque of BigMat, but legs were warmed up early by effort. Nice to enjoy the wind assisted hum of 14 wheels out Mitchell Rd, catching a late starting Steve near the dog leg. Oncoming Cats were stacked across Boundary Road resisting the force of the 24-37km/h westerly (makes up for the lack of hills), a bit of relief in the momentary shelter of trees helped our drive northward, but the hard yards were to come in Ford Rd. Nev worked double shifts of kindness at the front for a lot of the treck west, all others performing well in the 30's. No cause for concern seeing a speed camera being set up near Matilda Drive, there wasn't enough watts into the wind to score a ticket. The muppets were grinning with the wind behind them passing DECA, lots of grins in our team came turning south into Rudd Rd. out of the head wind, with coffee & toast soon to be enjoyed at the Butterfactory (will miss Julie's hospitality though with a change of ownership soon) Usual exhuberant conversation amongst the crew, joined by Sootie then Temple, Norm, Chris & others from the 6.45 group.
Cougs had organised a great team for a Fruitloop prologue on Sunday, a handy WSW tail breeze for the trip out too. An ace roll-up of BigMat, Ro, Meags and Fox, Cougs, Fee, Norm, Chris the Pom, Temple & Daniel made up the pack for the eastward roll to Dookie, taking the Kellows Rd leg to avoid the pair of dive bombing magpies. A short bit of Roubaix section near Cosgrove (road ripped up for repairs) then the haul up the Alp d'Dookie (unaccustomed as i am to hiils). A brief confab at the shop (and a pause for drinks, eats, loo etc., an early return to Shepp for Daniel & Temple) then out east to face more inclines, some taking on the schoolies circuit, others the tarmac toward Devenish. The brave scaled Duggans Rd, all then headed west back to Dookie, canola stretched acoss the hills for some worthwhile visual distraction (photo proof above). Just a short halt in town (avoiding muscles locking up) then all aboard for a slog into a south westerly home. Nice to have some good engines at the front, Fox aboard the TT Giant, Big Mat on Avanti, and great turns by all the girls got us all back to enjoy well earned refreshment at Friars.
Turned up to the P&W's Monday to flush the legs of hill memories, Dan the Man (direct from a very green pasture) was commencing Canberra preparation, Princess was bedding in a hot pair of 90mm SRAM carbons and Meags bold enough to ride again straight after the Dookie assult. Winter had revisited with 0.2 degrees, bands of low fog lay on Old Dookie Rd, riding through them looked like the opening sequence of Dr Who. All were keen just to roll the legs over and take a shorter course via Channel Rd to home. A most considerate start to the week. A big cheer for Tommygun, finishing in the 70.3 championships in Vegas in 34+ temperatures over the weekend, one tough vegetarian! Big cheer too for Nev's excellent 3rd at Ballarat.
Monday nights' sleep was as rare as Muntzy riding straight, an early work start too meant rolling out at 5.30 to knock 30k on the head and knock some demons out of mine. Climbed aboard the Prozac-mobile and headed out Channel Rd, a moderate improvement on yesterdays temperature, but 2.4 degrees is still a bit short. Quite the fat cat pack heading south in Boundary Rd, numbers are up with spring in the air and a little more daylight. Vince was playing Casey Jones on the 51 train as I took a trip down the Hill Rd memory lane (as narrow as I remember when it was a regular course). Good to roll out a lap contemplating life's ups and downs (and clearing the downs) One or two fellow bike tragics were out along Ford Rd in the early hours, Captain Col and a compact crew outbound near the golf course as I rolled inbound .
Lots of afternoon sun drew many out of hibernation on Tuesday night. Dave, Scotty, Craig, Rob, Liam, Sav, Dalton, Trev (back from from Broome but minus some broom broom) Nath, Hamish and Mike made up the starter pack, lots more joined on as we headed east. Kev, Mitch, Bomber, Steigy, olympian Steve (back from Belgium with a couple of ace wins), little Sprinter back in action after his canine calamity, and half a dozen more swelled the ranks to make 24 at it's peak. Lighter longer now, can even spot the gravel on the corners. The usual offenders kept the pace up, felt like the fridge door was left open several times over the course (glad i kitted up with a base layer). Bit of an embargo on rotation several times, some of the young-un's getting greedy on the front. Dave launched his sinature attack at Mt Nicolaci, lasting nearly to Roubaix corner was a good effort. I'd resigned to sitting back tonight (couldn't have matched all that youthful enthusiasm anyway) with Sundays' Fruitloop on the horizon. 5th was a good score considering, 37.3 average pretty handy too.
Wednesdays' P&W roll call mustered Chris the Pom, Cougs, Fee, Meags, Troy, Hayles and Sootie to tap out 30k's. Another fresh morning but the promise of sunshine with an early dawn and a clear sky was optomistic. Nearing the Pub Dan had caught on (a chase brought on by dodgy alarm clock) making up an even eight. The quick chicks performed well, shame Sooties restored knee still needs a bit more care. TT's were spotted at Central Kialla Rd and given right of way, Cougs made sure they didn't gain any ground, in fact reeling them in a few hundred metres. A smooth lap in all, too smooth for pussycats to catch.
Put an appearance into Thursdays' Couldabeens, as did Trav, Shorty, Vince (on a damp 51 reprive) Chris A (getting hitched in 2 weeks) Kenworth, Nick, Ryan, Rocket, Trev, Temple and Leon...even Dalton upped the standards joining in. On the roll-out several noticed the distant light behind, who else but the (ever) late Daniel (almost started a fundraiser for a new alarm clock). Courtesy called a wait for the straggler, eventually all grouped for the tour east to Boundary Rd. The south wester took its toll on the way to Mitchell, Temple losing steam on the turn so I played tow truck for a bit till he recovered. A crook call for a car at Central Kialla split the bunch but reformation was swift. Adios to Leon and the late Daniel at Archer, the rest continued for the Raftery finish. Vince took the front out of the Conrod dip and set the singles singing early (he may need to phone AMI for that premature problem?) Plenty of horsepower from Kenworth, Dalton and co with a 100 to go, managed to just crawl past them, but had Rocket nipping at my heels at 54km/h (who graciously threw it in neutral a whisker before the line)
P&W numbers were down to just Stace, Sootie and Hayles on Friday. 1.9 degrees was too shy for Spring, but a lap beckoned to finish the week. Stace's chain needs oil, creaking under the stress of horsepower, Hayles (suffering the sniffles) belted out monster turns in silky smooth style, Sootie's knee must be coming good, no slouching there either. Spied Leon on a solo out of Channel Rd, Steve too about to arrive home after an anti-clockwise tour. Very pleasing to see well what lies ahead with the rising sun casting an orange wash over the canola on Mitchell Rd , far better than the dark and chilly/windy view only a month ago.
Down to Arcadia Downs when 9 puddy tats finally caught and passed, the tail end becoming quite "up close and personal" in the drive forward (bit blinkered by ambition?) A good session to end the week, missed the usual coffee and yarn, a slave to works' roster.
Week 37 395km 14,220 calories (6.2kg roast chicken) 32.1km/h average YTD 14,171km
"Man, when you lose your laugh, you lose your footing" Ken Kesey. US Author ("One Flew Over the Cookoos Nest") 1935-2001
Friday, September 7, 2012
Week 36
At last spring has sprung, but nobody told mother nature, she served up 1.8 degrees for the first day! Saturday was winter still, a light breeze from the west south west chilled muscles and bones, maybe kept many indoors 'cause only Cougs turned up at the Peppermill. (some were on a mutiny to a 7am start, perhaps a vote will cast the majority decision on where and when for future Saturdays?) An engorged moon lit the road till an even earlier sunrise lit up the fog laying in the low lands. Dave was at the highway to share the load, so a senate committee chewed over the Saturday options as we plied our way east. Nearly a dozen felines were headed south at the Broken bridges, a lost puppy spotted (well a green dawg anyway) all the way back near the pub. (malfunctioning alarm clock? dropped by the pack? keen to chase?) With us all on time constraints an abridged circuit chosen today, back to town via Old Dookie.
A fast dose of caffine to finish, just a small Cat faction at the Butterfactory (the left wing crossed the floor to Gloria Jeans). Departed just as Kylie, Temple and Hoffy arrived; the usual philosophical discussion will have to simmer till next week.
A Sunday morning alarm wasn't set (Fathers Day after all) but a cerebral one chimed every hour and a half during the night. Don't you just hate that? All too much by 5.15 so got up with the decision to lap the toaster circuit, running in a new Garmin Edge 500, something to appease the nerdy number type in us. Heart rate, cadence, calories, speed, temperature, tax file number, average speed, inside leg measurement.....all downloadable data to analyse and compare. (a note to self not to become a slave to the machine) Something about the 1 degree atmostphere felt like riding through treacle, even a bit dissapointed in the achievable speed. Good to be distracted by a great sunrise though, a band of fog sandwiched between a yellow field of canola and an orange dawn sky. Had to duck the ducks (ironically at the Emu), a v formation low flying toward Euroa. By the Pine Lodge pub there had been several sections of circuit missing from memory, zoned out or early onset dementia? The i-pod provided a metronome, Flume, Mount Kimbie, Seekae and Flying Lotus provided the electro genre to motivate the completion. Changed the scenery taking River Rd (as much as I don't favour it) noticing a church at Trevaskis Rd for years I'd not noticed. At a random glance Garmin's data showed 36.8 km/h, 162 bpm, 52 cadence, 1.6 degrees, 7.18am at the 38k mark, maybe too much information? Kept up the velocity to the end (despite temptation to the contrary) knowing it feels nice when you stop (like banging your head against a brick wall really) satisfied with a 33.3 solo, the legacy being jelly legs for the rest of the morning.
Mondays P&W harem has become a regular (and enjoyable) ride, all the girls improving each week (despite being crook at the weekend, Fee was firing on all cylinders). 2 degrees was still a winter hangover but at least there's early daylight (if only to spot the wildlife). 9 Cats had formed single file to reel us in, passing diplomatically at the Mitchell dog-leg. Nice to enjoy their short draft but enjoyed being with a far more attractive team. Back into town to start another week, enthused by promising spring sunshine.
Almost overwhelmed by a barrage of Stone Dine pans, Renovators , Navigator vacuums, Shark Steam Mops, Transformer Ladders, Dual Saws and Ab Waves on the telly Monday, the long wait till the sanity of Mythbusters signalled a ride and a chance to tune out to the crazy world. 17 degrees ditched the winter gloves for fingerless ones, booties stayed home too. Garmin's cadence/speed sensor battery gave up within a k of starting so relied on the trusty old Cateye flying by wire. Quite scenic heading toward Dookie (on Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd) with the sun sinking, casting an orange glow and long shadows across to Mt Major. Turned into Quarry Rd then took Kelllows Rd to the camel farm and hooked right down Cosgrove-Caniambo Rd, enjoying a whisker of assistance from a slight northeast breeze. The posterior remembered the rugged tarmac toward Caniambo, alloy frames not as kind as carbon on the rough stuff. Gritted the teeth for the long 12k haul of Bells Armstrong Rd, heading toward civilisation made it seem a bit shorter (the feint glow from lights at the trotting track was a good goal post). Finally into Mitchell Rd the soft side argued for a short cut home, but a very distant flashing tail-light was a carrot to continue for a Raftery finale. By Roubaix corner the distant bike wasn't going to be caught (the legs resigned to surviving instead) but pleased to clock up 70 at 32.8.
A week since the last Couldabeens lap, nice to catch up with the crew again in the early hours of Tuesday. Dave, Cougs, Leon, Nick, Shorty, Steve, Rocket and Jase were there, Kenworth & Matty arrived out of breath (Matt had his legs well & truely warmed up from the big truck) Ryan & Daniel (7 degrees = short sleeves & short nicks of course) arriving meant it was 6am on the dot. Rolled into Channel Rd to get the show underway, Daniel spotted Vince running late and held back to pair up for a chase back to the bunch (duely joined the ranks at Doyles Rd). Half way out Channel Rd we swallowed up legal Dave and a mate out of winter hibernation on a roll around (they hung on for a quick initiation to Spring). Gravel must be on special at the council, plenty scattered around recent pot-hole repairs. A few words with newbie Matt (on Felt) in Boundary Rd keen to hang on a bit longer, the light north-easter propelling the mob into the 40's for a lot of Boundary & Mitchell. Vince had birthday present 80mm carbons to roll on, but the singles weren't homologated for us mere mortals (unfair advantage old fella) Last night's long lap was taking it's toll on my reserves, so was happy to sit back for the last 2k's and let the young'ns roll through , but picked up quite a few ejected from the front in the last k, to tow home a happy crew (with cob-webs cleared) with a 36.5 average. Of course, Rocket victorious at the front, the train driver still in bed when we crossed the line.
A familiar bunch of ratbags at the hospital boom gates on Tuesday night. I joined Scotty, Robbo, Mike, Dalton, Rob, Hamish, Nath and Craig to make the starting team, plenty hooked on out the road. Reece, Mitch, Gools, legal Steve, Bomber and Steigy (even Killer reappeared) made up the numbers, five more had u-turned beyond the railway line to join the lengthening train. As is custom Robbo, MItch, Bomber & Reece turned up the wick with a slight breeze from behind, 40+ for Old Dookie Rd, a brief respite in the high 30's for Boundary, then 42 to 45 for River Rd with barely a word spoken. Bomber bailed out at the Kialla hall to head home, the speed stayed though into Mitchell. In the low 40's Reece hit the detonator at Archer Rd taking Robbo, Mitch, Nath, Gools and Dalton on a very premature breakaway. Found myself driving a slightly slower train (with plenty of carriages behind) up to Roubaix where Dalton and Gools, ejected from the frontal attack, were reeled in (and generously donated their horsepower to the cause of staying in touch with (or at least within sight of) the breakaway. A nice draft by Gools when it mattered gave me the edge to take 5th, albeit 100 metres behind the fearsome foursome ahead, a 38 average over 42 k's nothing to sneeze at though. Analysing Garmin info downloaded later recalled the HR, speed, cadence, distance, and elevation at any given point (painful memories?) but I was really chuffed having the new 56 ring, a life saver tonite.
With copious encouragement to join the P&W's for Wednesday mornings, I turned up to find lots had abandoned ship for rpm at the gym (looking a big sweaty bums and spinning like a mixmaster...aargh!) At least Meags, Troy, Cougs and the Pom turned up to enjoy the scenery go by, breath in the country aromas and hear the tyres on the road. 5 made rotation worthwhile, a chance for a yarn too. By River Rd the TT lads hadn't caught us, but a dozen Cats did at the turn into Mitchell (sensibly delaying the pass till the road straightened) Matho delivering a 'cheeky' good morning. Coug's eagle eye saved the day at Central Kialla Rd, spied the approaching TT'ers (and the car about to overtake) to prevent us being spread like jam on the asphalt. A 51 breakaway shot past as we headed toward Archer Rd, their remainder a minute later (with a crazy cross of the highway risking life and limb, ruined reputation too) Not big on the risk, we tapped away to the finish (the big wookie overtook with 2k left) the constant 18k NNE wind proving enough.
An early start at the salt mine on Thursday again, so an earlier (and shorter) lap to keep on schedule. September is living up to it's reputation of wind, wind and more wind (must be on a diet of cabbage and beans?). Blowing at 22km/h this morning (gusts to 35) so not bursting the boiler trying to break records.
Trawled the depths of the Garmin handbook to set-up the cadence/speed sensor, finally ironing it out Thursday night. A last minute text from a good mate to put his bins out for collection had the Friday morning P&W start in jeapordy, just made the SPC roundabout to find only Stace & Fee there (a revival in neutral with average weather?) A rapid northwester was blowing us into next week, single file the go today. Just past River Rd we were finally caught by 6 Cats, Matho, Kel, Bickers and crew inviting us to jump on (and share the toil for Mitchell Rd's head wind onslaught i'd guess.) Turns varied in length and speed, wind gusts to 33km/h had a big part to play too, conversation overpowered by concentration & effort. The welcomed sight of a finish line inspired a final push, beckoning Matho & Kel to do likewise fell on deaf ears, just touched 50 against the breeze to finish the week spent but satisfied.
Week 36 447 km 16,092 calories (5 litres of chicken soup, 4kg roast beef, 12 baked potatoes, 2kg pumpkin, 5 heads of broccolli, 10 carrots, 4 dinner rolls, 3 bottles of Shiraz.....and a wafer thin mint) 32.7 average YTD 13,776km
"Resist much, obey little" Walt Whitman US poet 1819-1892
A fast dose of caffine to finish, just a small Cat faction at the Butterfactory (the left wing crossed the floor to Gloria Jeans). Departed just as Kylie, Temple and Hoffy arrived; the usual philosophical discussion will have to simmer till next week.
A Sunday morning alarm wasn't set (Fathers Day after all) but a cerebral one chimed every hour and a half during the night. Don't you just hate that? All too much by 5.15 so got up with the decision to lap the toaster circuit, running in a new Garmin Edge 500, something to appease the nerdy number type in us. Heart rate, cadence, calories, speed, temperature, tax file number, average speed, inside leg measurement.....all downloadable data to analyse and compare. (a note to self not to become a slave to the machine) Something about the 1 degree atmostphere felt like riding through treacle, even a bit dissapointed in the achievable speed. Good to be distracted by a great sunrise though, a band of fog sandwiched between a yellow field of canola and an orange dawn sky. Had to duck the ducks (ironically at the Emu), a v formation low flying toward Euroa. By the Pine Lodge pub there had been several sections of circuit missing from memory, zoned out or early onset dementia? The i-pod provided a metronome, Flume, Mount Kimbie, Seekae and Flying Lotus provided the electro genre to motivate the completion. Changed the scenery taking River Rd (as much as I don't favour it) noticing a church at Trevaskis Rd for years I'd not noticed. At a random glance Garmin's data showed 36.8 km/h, 162 bpm, 52 cadence, 1.6 degrees, 7.18am at the 38k mark, maybe too much information? Kept up the velocity to the end (despite temptation to the contrary) knowing it feels nice when you stop (like banging your head against a brick wall really) satisfied with a 33.3 solo, the legacy being jelly legs for the rest of the morning.
Mondays P&W harem has become a regular (and enjoyable) ride, all the girls improving each week (despite being crook at the weekend, Fee was firing on all cylinders). 2 degrees was still a winter hangover but at least there's early daylight (if only to spot the wildlife). 9 Cats had formed single file to reel us in, passing diplomatically at the Mitchell dog-leg. Nice to enjoy their short draft but enjoyed being with a far more attractive team. Back into town to start another week, enthused by promising spring sunshine.
Almost overwhelmed by a barrage of Stone Dine pans, Renovators , Navigator vacuums, Shark Steam Mops, Transformer Ladders, Dual Saws and Ab Waves on the telly Monday, the long wait till the sanity of Mythbusters signalled a ride and a chance to tune out to the crazy world. 17 degrees ditched the winter gloves for fingerless ones, booties stayed home too. Garmin's cadence/speed sensor battery gave up within a k of starting so relied on the trusty old Cateye flying by wire. Quite scenic heading toward Dookie (on Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd) with the sun sinking, casting an orange glow and long shadows across to Mt Major. Turned into Quarry Rd then took Kelllows Rd to the camel farm and hooked right down Cosgrove-Caniambo Rd, enjoying a whisker of assistance from a slight northeast breeze. The posterior remembered the rugged tarmac toward Caniambo, alloy frames not as kind as carbon on the rough stuff. Gritted the teeth for the long 12k haul of Bells Armstrong Rd, heading toward civilisation made it seem a bit shorter (the feint glow from lights at the trotting track was a good goal post). Finally into Mitchell Rd the soft side argued for a short cut home, but a very distant flashing tail-light was a carrot to continue for a Raftery finale. By Roubaix corner the distant bike wasn't going to be caught (the legs resigned to surviving instead) but pleased to clock up 70 at 32.8.
A week since the last Couldabeens lap, nice to catch up with the crew again in the early hours of Tuesday. Dave, Cougs, Leon, Nick, Shorty, Steve, Rocket and Jase were there, Kenworth & Matty arrived out of breath (Matt had his legs well & truely warmed up from the big truck) Ryan & Daniel (7 degrees = short sleeves & short nicks of course) arriving meant it was 6am on the dot. Rolled into Channel Rd to get the show underway, Daniel spotted Vince running late and held back to pair up for a chase back to the bunch (duely joined the ranks at Doyles Rd). Half way out Channel Rd we swallowed up legal Dave and a mate out of winter hibernation on a roll around (they hung on for a quick initiation to Spring). Gravel must be on special at the council, plenty scattered around recent pot-hole repairs. A few words with newbie Matt (on Felt) in Boundary Rd keen to hang on a bit longer, the light north-easter propelling the mob into the 40's for a lot of Boundary & Mitchell. Vince had birthday present 80mm carbons to roll on, but the singles weren't homologated for us mere mortals (unfair advantage old fella) Last night's long lap was taking it's toll on my reserves, so was happy to sit back for the last 2k's and let the young'ns roll through , but picked up quite a few ejected from the front in the last k, to tow home a happy crew (with cob-webs cleared) with a 36.5 average. Of course, Rocket victorious at the front, the train driver still in bed when we crossed the line.
A familiar bunch of ratbags at the hospital boom gates on Tuesday night. I joined Scotty, Robbo, Mike, Dalton, Rob, Hamish, Nath and Craig to make the starting team, plenty hooked on out the road. Reece, Mitch, Gools, legal Steve, Bomber and Steigy (even Killer reappeared) made up the numbers, five more had u-turned beyond the railway line to join the lengthening train. As is custom Robbo, MItch, Bomber & Reece turned up the wick with a slight breeze from behind, 40+ for Old Dookie Rd, a brief respite in the high 30's for Boundary, then 42 to 45 for River Rd with barely a word spoken. Bomber bailed out at the Kialla hall to head home, the speed stayed though into Mitchell. In the low 40's Reece hit the detonator at Archer Rd taking Robbo, Mitch, Nath, Gools and Dalton on a very premature breakaway. Found myself driving a slightly slower train (with plenty of carriages behind) up to Roubaix where Dalton and Gools, ejected from the frontal attack, were reeled in (and generously donated their horsepower to the cause of staying in touch with (or at least within sight of) the breakaway. A nice draft by Gools when it mattered gave me the edge to take 5th, albeit 100 metres behind the fearsome foursome ahead, a 38 average over 42 k's nothing to sneeze at though. Analysing Garmin info downloaded later recalled the HR, speed, cadence, distance, and elevation at any given point (painful memories?) but I was really chuffed having the new 56 ring, a life saver tonite.
With copious encouragement to join the P&W's for Wednesday mornings, I turned up to find lots had abandoned ship for rpm at the gym (looking a big sweaty bums and spinning like a mixmaster...aargh!) At least Meags, Troy, Cougs and the Pom turned up to enjoy the scenery go by, breath in the country aromas and hear the tyres on the road. 5 made rotation worthwhile, a chance for a yarn too. By River Rd the TT lads hadn't caught us, but a dozen Cats did at the turn into Mitchell (sensibly delaying the pass till the road straightened) Matho delivering a 'cheeky' good morning. Coug's eagle eye saved the day at Central Kialla Rd, spied the approaching TT'ers (and the car about to overtake) to prevent us being spread like jam on the asphalt. A 51 breakaway shot past as we headed toward Archer Rd, their remainder a minute later (with a crazy cross of the highway risking life and limb, ruined reputation too) Not big on the risk, we tapped away to the finish (the big wookie overtook with 2k left) the constant 18k NNE wind proving enough.
An early start at the salt mine on Thursday again, so an earlier (and shorter) lap to keep on schedule. September is living up to it's reputation of wind, wind and more wind (must be on a diet of cabbage and beans?). Blowing at 22km/h this morning (gusts to 35) so not bursting the boiler trying to break records.
Trawled the depths of the Garmin handbook to set-up the cadence/speed sensor, finally ironing it out Thursday night. A last minute text from a good mate to put his bins out for collection had the Friday morning P&W start in jeapordy, just made the SPC roundabout to find only Stace & Fee there (a revival in neutral with average weather?) A rapid northwester was blowing us into next week, single file the go today. Just past River Rd we were finally caught by 6 Cats, Matho, Kel, Bickers and crew inviting us to jump on (and share the toil for Mitchell Rd's head wind onslaught i'd guess.) Turns varied in length and speed, wind gusts to 33km/h had a big part to play too, conversation overpowered by concentration & effort. The welcomed sight of a finish line inspired a final push, beckoning Matho & Kel to do likewise fell on deaf ears, just touched 50 against the breeze to finish the week spent but satisfied.
Week 36 447 km 16,092 calories (5 litres of chicken soup, 4kg roast beef, 12 baked potatoes, 2kg pumpkin, 5 heads of broccolli, 10 carrots, 4 dinner rolls, 3 bottles of Shiraz.....and a wafer thin mint) 32.7 average YTD 13,776km
"Resist much, obey little" Walt Whitman US poet 1819-1892
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