In an attempt to loosen stiff legs and get some circulation in the cold, set off to Saturday's ride on the 19 tooth, spinning like a mixmaster (well, for me anyway) and scrubbing off the cobwebs at the bigger end of the cassette. Not able to get any sort of reasonable speed, but less load on the legs helped a little. How do many survive a 90+ cadence? Limbs had loosened a bit beyond the lake, changed into more familiar cogs so i'd get to the start on time. Only 9 degrees but a good crowd had formed at the shop. Jase, Axel, Shorty, Rocket, Cougs, Daniel, Temple,& Mike were keen, Trev missing though, his back giving more grief than Simon Creen gave the Labor Party last week. Fairly fresh in Channel Rd, attempting to climatise to this cold stuff (seems an eternity since last suffering the chills of winter past) 3/4 knicks, armwarmers and base layers almost on the must have list. (unless you're Daniel, but he has weakened using full fingered gloves) A pair of distant tail-lights were visible in Boundary Rd but it wasn't until beyond the Emu we caught Nath and the Smuggler being anti-social. Axel has bounced back to form quickly after a long bout of shift work hampered bike time, Shorty short on shove though with a week off on hols. Good mornings exchanged with the eastbound Cats, speed held within bounds of Trev's standards all the way to Numurkah Rd, with a long wait for traffic cooling the extremities. Lap completed with no takers for a sprint finish, many keen to apply some internal heating with caffine possibly? Supercoach, economics, political coups, fish and finalising pub crawl details kept the discussion flowing, none keen on saddling up with cold damp gloves and helmets for a cool roll home.
Keeping gentlemans hours on Sunday (aiming at more than 6 hours sleep lately to recharge batteries) set off at 7.45 to see who dared at the lake at 8am. About as hopeful as Kev's numbers in the caucus, not a soul to be seen. Shame, a once good ride (up to 30+) with a variety of regulars has now faded. Noticing a flicker of flags pointing south, I about faced to take the easier option of a clockwise toaster loop. May have been a bit keen on the push up to Wanganui Rd, legs burning a bit (a long way left to go with toasted thighs). Gave the wave to Mike & wife on the Verney Rd roundabout and set sail to the Emu against a little force from the north with a bit of east to give grief. Found I was now cooking the ticker on 170bpm @ 35, much better pointing south though, down to 130 at the same speed (or 41 at the earlier bpm) A gathering of Goats found at the Pine Lodge Church (repenting their sins?) setting a course to Dookie i'm told. Continued on my solo quest (banana toast at the Lemontree the target) to the toaster and on toward Boundary Rd (two bikes southbound near the Fig farm turned out to be Mike & wife who'd taken the Boundary Rd shortcut) Metered the pace to leave a reserve for Raftery but was rounded up easily by four blokes on bikes as I approached Mitchell (powered by Harley Davison I should add) By the dog-leg i'd hit the psychiatric wall, the wind had swung to a northwest at 15km/h to flatten the motivation and bump up the h.r to 175. Had to wipe off 5 to stay alive, Norm noticed eastbound at Mt Nicolaci, also keeping gentleman's hours. A little easier pointing out of Roubaix corner (a rare Greendawg sighting, also eastbound on accountant's hours) Pace was back for conrod straight (no doubt driven by a couple of slabs of banana toast) satisfied to get to Steptoe's in 1:25, heart rate over aerobic for an hour with 868 calories down. No bike conversation at the Lemontree but was quietly amused at others discussion. The old engine consumption calculated at 4 litres/100k, Coca-Cola that is.
Mondays mild 14 degrees was perfect for a journey out Channel Rd with Cougs, Roscoe a suprise addition for most of the distance. Avoided a Kenworth confrontation thanks to Coug's eagle eye, steadily tapped out to Boundary Rd comparing notes on us senior's attempts to keep pace with the young-uns. Roscoe u-turned for a Cat tow home, Coug's and I taking turns at Old Dookie Rd's now chilly patches with the sun almost out of bed. Home to start the working week, raisin toast back on the (part 2) breakfast menu spells winter is nigh.
After all the presumption of summer's demise, an almost warm 16 degrees started Tuesday morning, no sign of wind either. A dozen Couldabeens took to the usual course, coming across a pair in the first leg to Doyles Rd. (lack of headlights signalled lack of sense, but sat on the back of the bunch though) Two Trev's, a GG and the regular crew rolled on, good to have Pete back, Chris A also making a re-couperative return, firing on all cylinders despite a gall bladder removal just three weeks ago! Once up to Boundary Rd and beyond the bridges, a few took the 'please tow' option. By Mitchell Rd speed had fluctuated, Nick & Rocket were emancipated, Temple's turn was truncated (maybe hyperventilated?) those behind were compensated, I found the sweat had saturated, youth (it seems) had placated. We'd picked up gentleman Graeme out on his own, passed a not-so-quick-chick at Archer and inherited another (nameless) Pinarello punter on the dash to Conrod straight. Trav, Nick, Jase, Rocket and the Kenworth were full steam ahead, Temple quickly voted me the tow truck for the remainder, the circuit done in 46:15.
Hopeful of positive patronage at the hospital on Tuesday night it was dissapointing to find only Robbo, Hamish and Paul the only ones prepared to have a go. (All the punters from months before must have been dissolved in the pot of softies, maybe they're having pedicures whilst sipping on fragrant frappes tuned into Days of our Lives?) Robbo's torque and Hamish's exhuberance towed us to Lemnos Rd, Paul & I took the next shift but Paul cooked himself early, dropping quickly. Great team spirit came to the rescue, an ease of pace and a tow back to the pack saw him rejoin and recouperate. Back to pace after the Emu, a hint of northerly assisting the passage to the toaster. Hamish & Robbo took the helm at the piggery and drove the little train down to River Rd. Shared the front with the young fella for the 6k's of River Rd @ 38, kept the legs well warm, lots of satisfaction the lungs and h.r. didn't explode) Lots of turns by all with just a few ensued, a great workout to justify a big dinner. Swallowing an insect didn't help my breathing, spent a k trying to clear the throat. Robbo steadily built the tempo over the highway, Hamish matched till Arcadia Downs but had spent too long on the hotplate, was cooked by Conrod. I could only hold even with the Robbo-mobile for 200 metres, he just drew away in the closing stages to take the honours by the gap between white posts, 43k done & dusted in 1:12:10
The old legs and hips creaked and groaned Wednesday morning, a slow and steady warm up down to Kialla Lakes to join Shorty, Cougs, Choppy, Avanti & Fuji Trev, GG, Jase, Tim, Nick and Rocket. A northeasterly was building momentum, happy to get my first turn done before the slog of Mitchell Rd. Pete joined in to lend legs for the drive east, wind the enemy in Boundary Rd making an echelon essential. We'd stalled the Supercats to force a give way at the River Rd intersection, lots of wind dragged behind oncoming trucks gave us all a literal blast, a collective sigh of relief to turn into Channel Rd for the run home. No tractors in the dark today, a big yellow moon guiding us back to town, the bike lane in Archer Rd more akin to a crusty demon's track.
Thursday's forecast lived up to expectation, an early light shower glossed the roads and made the doona a better proposition. The heavens opened at 6.20, ratifying the decision. Rotated the tyres instead, an uneventful 3800 k's flattening the peak off the rear tyre. Roads were well dried with a 25km/h westerly during the arvo, turned up to the library but only Clive had come out to play. I suppose the previous attendees had appointments for facials or Reiki therapy, maybe cup cakes to bake? Not much hope of finding other punters on the circuit but set off on the usual route, ably assisted by a tail wind to the Emu. Pushed about by the westerly down to the toaster where we both gritted teeth to face the reality of driving westerly into the wind. 32 into 30 dug into the reserves to Boundary Rd, then a chance to draw breath on the leg to River Rd. In the interest of survival, turns were taken for the rest of the lap, quite capable Clive most courteous not tearing my legs off. The final 3k beyond the highway became easier with the breeze at our side, 47k covered in 1:27 a good workout for just two. Squeezed super close to parked cars by an overtaking and overzealous Camry passing in a corner on the ride home, a killer stare delivered at the next traffic light satisfied the payback.
The fridge door was left open overnight, just 9 degrees to enjoy a lap at a lazy 8am start. Down Archer Rd enthusiasm took it's grip with a bunch a kilometer ahead, Cougs keen for a pursuit (the Easter bunny's carrot of challenge had been dangled). In just a few km's an Adams family, slightly disarrayed, came into view and were promptly passed. Kept a steady slog up Mitchell Rd through a soup like atmostphere (minus the crispy croutons), dissapointed the forecast southerly wasn't there to help up Boundary Rd but were chuffed by good progress. A westerly greeted us for the last leg in Old Dookie Rd (nothing like a head wind home to erode enthusiasm) but determination kept the turns well paced. For the sake of history caffine was infused at the Butterfactory, a slightly darker decor and demure demeanor but sunshine and hot coffee revived us well. Quite a peleton of familiar faces arriving back in town from a charity ride, took in a second sociable coffee at Friars to catch-up with Tommygun and Weapon on the Melb Tri news, a most enjoyable finish to the bike week.
Week 13 407km 11,396 calories (8.1kg Tabouli) YTD 4,573km
"Neither a wise man nor a brave man lies down on the tracks of history to wait for the train of the future to run over him" Dwight David ("Ike") Eisenhower 34th US President ('53-'61) 1890-1969
Thursday, March 28, 2013
Friday, March 22, 2013
Week 12 Summer's door slams shut
A tranquil tour through town Saturday morning, nice not to fight for road space on the way. Trav, Steve, Mike, Cougs, Temple, Nick, AvantiTrev, FeltMat and Daniel to tour today. A considerate opening stage with Temple set Saturdays social scenario, each day gaining a little more darkness to dull enthusiasm (still, we could have 5 months of no sun in the arctic circle) Nath joined in just beyond Benalla Rd, was it just me struggling to get the legs working even with a gentle southerly to assist? Me thinks the rapid change of season maybe to blame? No riders out in pairs or solo today, a copious collection of Cats though, found eastwardly Emu bound as usual. (a touch of wheels near the toaster brought several down, Walshy's bike well and truely busted but none seriously hurt thankfully) Lethargy was contagious in our bunch, climatising to cooler mornings (and thoughts of the months ahead) always a testing transition. The P&W's had a decent gathering in Ford Rd for a tapering lap after many months of hard slog in Triathlon preparation (Stace getting extra puncture training im told, HWK to the late rescue) Back to town minus a sprint, the welcoming warmth of coffee made the ride worthwhile. Lively talk on dirty politics, e-trade, diesels and pub crawls most entertaining.
Treated the legs to a Sunday off (how soft!, number three for the year) but they still creak getting out of bed.
Winters' door was flung open on Monday, down to single figure temperature dragged the motivation down with it. Reluctantly rummaged out the winter base layer but stopped at the search for big gloves and booties. Set south in the main drag, not another bike to be seen (pondered if i'd drive myself to ride through yet another winter. I can really understand why others don't) But then, we were having a grizzle about the relentless heat a few weeks ago..... Cats had a large contingent in Boundary Rd, came across the Boral truck on a warm-up crawl, building air pressure, so there was a sense of achievement to round up 380hp of Freightliner (but we won't mention he was in first gear)
The cooler conditions kept a few under the doona on Tuesday, a baptism of ice for Trav, Kenworth, Tim, Brent, FeltMat, Rocket and Daniel (last as always, certainly not least) Forward ho in Channel Rd it was interesting to compare the dress code variation; Kenworth dressed for Vladivostok, Daniel dressed for Vanuatu. Nathan appeared in the darkness beyond the kinder, me drawing the short straw beside him. Heading south in Boundary I was grateful the sun wasn't up to show the speed, may have mentally given up knowing it. (the Garmin download later said 40). Had a "gotta-love-it" moment in Mitchell Rd, almost ready to admit defeat and ask for a roll over when a young fella asks first.....then does half a turn 'cause he's spent! Into the closing stages and the first dip of Conrod straight, Nath turned up the wick. Used all the reserves to get round the Avanti advantage and soon after the Kenworth bolted by, Rocket attached behind as motivator who graciously allowed Gav the win (but kept a wheel very close to make it well earned) More than satisfied with 3rd, enthusiasm returning.
Mid 20's and barely a puff of wind was reason enough to front to the boom gate on Tuesday, great to see some life back into the ride with 5 ready to ride. A welcome back to Craig after a 5 month lay-off, Robbo, Jamie, Harpo and Clive on board too. Things looked up on the way out, Steve joining in while Robbo upped the ante into a light northeasterly. Trent and Trudi provided extra relief at the Emu (a little easier going with the breeze behind from thereafter too) Great to have Axel, Paul and Tommygun add to the numbers in Old Dookie Rd, back to a good working dozen on a Tuesday night (memories from days long ago). Riding west in River Rd provided a free feed of insects, lots of distant smoke from a stubble burn to view. Trent and Robbo at the front are in a different league, i'm sitting second wheel sucking all the oxygen i can get, while they joke and chat at 40. A bit of excitement on the turn into Mitchell, Jamie punctures (rallycrossing in the gravel) the bunch slows and Paul rubs wheels in the confusion that followed. All ok and upright though. Harpo and Clive volunteered as Jamie's pit crew, the bunch continued, Robbo & Trent up front again out of Roubaix, the generous engines towing all home (the average identical to this mornings ride)
A lap with the P&W's on Wednesday, (supercats super early at SPC by 5.50) most on a shake down with the Melbourne Tri just days away. Nearly all were on time trial steeds, Stace, HWK, Sootie, Simon, Hayles, Fee, Cougs, THM and Chops steered into the dark tunnel of Old Dookie Rd. THM was on the tarmac edge into a steadily building breeze, Hayleys the Comet with a full carbon dinner plate as a rear wheel, sounded appropriately like a fighter jet. We'd caught the ever tardy LeighMac soon after Channel Rd who was suprised at the long turns at the business end of the pack (Cats must have the shortest turns in town) A favourable run down Mitchell Rd worked well by Stace & HWK. Got to the front with THM after Archer was crossed, who flew up Mt Nicolaci like a man on a mission. Speed gradually built to Arcadia Downs when Weapon appeared in the rotation (a late start following a diversion with a doona) aboard the "pinkle projectile". The River Rd ratbags drew by as Conrod came into view, and with 600 metres remaining, Area twentyfive and a half (well, half of 51) gunned past with Eggy as the tow truck. "Good luck"s were spread amongst the P&W crew for their Melbourne effort, a lot of k's on bikes, in water and on foot to prepare will be their bonus.
Thursday mornings early rain and lightning gave another sleep in, no complaints. Black clouds and masses of wind late afternoon put a halt to any ideas for the day. An anti-clockwise lap with Cougs on Friday to finish the week, witnessing the three groups in Boundary Rd on schedule, 51 making good ground on Supercats. Back into town after a good dip in Old Dookie, cars charging up to give ways are always unsettling. A lung full of eau de garbage truck then a smoking diesel 4x4 on the way home also unsettling.
Week 12 269km 8070 calories (1614 Smarties) YTD 4,166 km
"An intellectual is a man who's mind watches itself" Albert Camus, French novelist 1913-1960
Treated the legs to a Sunday off (how soft!, number three for the year) but they still creak getting out of bed.
Winters' door was flung open on Monday, down to single figure temperature dragged the motivation down with it. Reluctantly rummaged out the winter base layer but stopped at the search for big gloves and booties. Set south in the main drag, not another bike to be seen (pondered if i'd drive myself to ride through yet another winter. I can really understand why others don't) But then, we were having a grizzle about the relentless heat a few weeks ago..... Cats had a large contingent in Boundary Rd, came across the Boral truck on a warm-up crawl, building air pressure, so there was a sense of achievement to round up 380hp of Freightliner (but we won't mention he was in first gear)
The cooler conditions kept a few under the doona on Tuesday, a baptism of ice for Trav, Kenworth, Tim, Brent, FeltMat, Rocket and Daniel (last as always, certainly not least) Forward ho in Channel Rd it was interesting to compare the dress code variation; Kenworth dressed for Vladivostok, Daniel dressed for Vanuatu. Nathan appeared in the darkness beyond the kinder, me drawing the short straw beside him. Heading south in Boundary I was grateful the sun wasn't up to show the speed, may have mentally given up knowing it. (the Garmin download later said 40). Had a "gotta-love-it" moment in Mitchell Rd, almost ready to admit defeat and ask for a roll over when a young fella asks first.....then does half a turn 'cause he's spent! Into the closing stages and the first dip of Conrod straight, Nath turned up the wick. Used all the reserves to get round the Avanti advantage and soon after the Kenworth bolted by, Rocket attached behind as motivator who graciously allowed Gav the win (but kept a wheel very close to make it well earned) More than satisfied with 3rd, enthusiasm returning.
Mid 20's and barely a puff of wind was reason enough to front to the boom gate on Tuesday, great to see some life back into the ride with 5 ready to ride. A welcome back to Craig after a 5 month lay-off, Robbo, Jamie, Harpo and Clive on board too. Things looked up on the way out, Steve joining in while Robbo upped the ante into a light northeasterly. Trent and Trudi provided extra relief at the Emu (a little easier going with the breeze behind from thereafter too) Great to have Axel, Paul and Tommygun add to the numbers in Old Dookie Rd, back to a good working dozen on a Tuesday night (memories from days long ago). Riding west in River Rd provided a free feed of insects, lots of distant smoke from a stubble burn to view. Trent and Robbo at the front are in a different league, i'm sitting second wheel sucking all the oxygen i can get, while they joke and chat at 40. A bit of excitement on the turn into Mitchell, Jamie punctures (rallycrossing in the gravel) the bunch slows and Paul rubs wheels in the confusion that followed. All ok and upright though. Harpo and Clive volunteered as Jamie's pit crew, the bunch continued, Robbo & Trent up front again out of Roubaix, the generous engines towing all home (the average identical to this mornings ride)
A lap with the P&W's on Wednesday, (supercats super early at SPC by 5.50) most on a shake down with the Melbourne Tri just days away. Nearly all were on time trial steeds, Stace, HWK, Sootie, Simon, Hayles, Fee, Cougs, THM and Chops steered into the dark tunnel of Old Dookie Rd. THM was on the tarmac edge into a steadily building breeze, Hayleys the Comet with a full carbon dinner plate as a rear wheel, sounded appropriately like a fighter jet. We'd caught the ever tardy LeighMac soon after Channel Rd who was suprised at the long turns at the business end of the pack (Cats must have the shortest turns in town) A favourable run down Mitchell Rd worked well by Stace & HWK. Got to the front with THM after Archer was crossed, who flew up Mt Nicolaci like a man on a mission. Speed gradually built to Arcadia Downs when Weapon appeared in the rotation (a late start following a diversion with a doona) aboard the "pinkle projectile". The River Rd ratbags drew by as Conrod came into view, and with 600 metres remaining, Area twentyfive and a half (well, half of 51) gunned past with Eggy as the tow truck. "Good luck"s were spread amongst the P&W crew for their Melbourne effort, a lot of k's on bikes, in water and on foot to prepare will be their bonus.
Thursday mornings early rain and lightning gave another sleep in, no complaints. Black clouds and masses of wind late afternoon put a halt to any ideas for the day. An anti-clockwise lap with Cougs on Friday to finish the week, witnessing the three groups in Boundary Rd on schedule, 51 making good ground on Supercats. Back into town after a good dip in Old Dookie, cars charging up to give ways are always unsettling. A lung full of eau de garbage truck then a smoking diesel 4x4 on the way home also unsettling.
Week 12 269km 8070 calories (1614 Smarties) YTD 4,166 km
"An intellectual is a man who's mind watches itself" Albert Camus, French novelist 1913-1960
Friday, March 15, 2013
Week 11 : Time, patience and perseverence
A new neighbour didn't front to a Saturday lap invite, so set off solo to the start with another balmy (22 degrees) start to the day. Good to have Axel join in with Nick, Tim, Jase, Shorty, Cougs, Temple, FeltMat, Daniel, Steve, AvantiTrev, Rocket Trav and Weapon. An ENE made some work of east and north bearings. Weapons' new Avanti Chronos has had a repaint, now positively personalised, part pink, part purple (pinkle?) pleasingly palatable, portraying puritanic presence; perfunctory? parochial? pfftt! Perfect! Lots of time put into little details makes it a work of art. Certainly copped a run-in with two 165k laps over the long weekend, special bakery stages included. (Me thinks Carole will tear up the Melb Tri.) Rocket & Daniel provided the b.h.p. up to the toaster, great back up by Axel and Cougs taking over to the Emu. There were a few odd pairs on the clockwise tour (almost viewed as a pair of car headlights) Yet another 25+ Cat pack headed east as we made the most of the tail wind west, even Trev turned a blind eye to the 40km/h flog. Gave way to (gym-boy)Matho when arriving at Numurkah Rd (a late start or an early knee trembler?) Rocket was the priveledged lead out for Cougs great finish, all congregated for chat over caffine, todays topics on drugs in sport and a proposed pub crawl.
Took a relaxed ride Sunday, a short circuit to preserve limbs and interest. Just a short tour of Old Dookie, Boundary and Channel Rd, enough for what should be a day of rest. Kept the motivation with what has become a Sunday ritual, the sacrament of coffee and a yarn with Cougs, watching several bunches heading out to do battle with the increasing temperature and humidity.
Set the alarm for a 7am sleep-in for the holiday Monday but the little grey cells were in work routine, open for business at 5am. Diversion only lasted half an hour, so up and away (after sustainance) at 6.30. Plotted a P&W course with near perfect conditions, viewed a magic sunrise tuned into Atoms for Peace and Chet Faker. Not a hint of movement in leaves or branches but heading west in Mitchell added 3km/h to the cruising speed (a hint of the easterly to come?) Several were out making the most of the cool end of the day, I backed off the cruise control with plans to join a few Couldabeens for an 8am Toaster lap. (needed a few volts left to match the crews' amps) Mitchell over, Roubaix & Raftery conquered and Conrod completed, content with a 33.3 at Steptoe's house (only oldies will get that one!) Fronted up to Harveys' to find Temple, Shorty, Tim, FeltMat, AvantiTrev, Steve, Cougs, Rocket, DocPaul and Emmet ready. Had the first shift with Temple down to Roubaix, Trev and Shorty took over but Shorty slowed at Archer, being bit by bee. Long time no see DocPaul, the new Scott steed a little unfamiliar, the faithful Oppy now with the gods. Trev was the little diesel in Old Dookie Rd with the ESE building and the humidity rising. The breeze behind in Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd was a lotion for motion, making a lot of ground on the Adams family on a shortcut loop. Unseen by many, FeltMats' Felt felt flat at the cemetery roundabout, a bindii slowing progress but all eventually assembled for brunch at the Lemontree, hot and humid but commraderie overpowered any discomfort. Pom along for a social debrief too, recovering from the surgeons' knife.
Took the short lap option on Tuesday morning, two days work in one for the start of a shorter week. Fronted the hospital ride on Tuesday evening but all had gone soft (Robbo exempt after some monster rides at the weekend) except young Scott. With the hope of collecting others we set off, 33 degrees and 15km/h of northeast breeze to battle. I was whole wheeled all the way to Lemnos North Rd, (hang on, only HWK has that honour!) playing on the anger nerves, but old grandad's words of "time, patience and perseverence" rang true, Scott eventually burning all his biscuits and retreated behind me to be towed all the way to the Emu. Ignored the anaerobic heart rate with satisfaction compensating, a bit easier for the rest of the journey south and west, young Scott putting in appearance at the front once more after recovering from his earlier enthusiasm. Most pleasing to have Mark join in after the Pub, providing a 30% saving in energy, good progress in River Rd (but Scott half and whole wheeled us both) All finalised at Conrods' end, 1:14 not a bad effort for just 3. (h.r. over aerobic for 29k)
A fairly breezy northerly blew me to the Kialla Couldabeen contingent on Wednesday morning, Nick, Jase, Avanti & FujiTrev, Shorty, Chops, Cougs, Rocket & FeltMat ready to go anti-clockwise. It was going to be solibrious southbound, working westward and nasty north but numbers were there to share the load. Peter and Rosco joined in in Mitchell Rd to lessen the shifts, noting the Supercats filing into River Rd soon after we reached Boundary Rd. There was a sizeable P&W mob and 51 were at warp speed single file in the hunt for victory. FujiTrev's moment of inattention nearly had caused a tangle, a little gust of wind had FeltMat rub elbows with Jase, throwing caution amongst the ranks. Easier going in Channel Rd but in the darkness near Hanlon Rd lurked a tractor trailing several bins, with not a light to be seen. A minute later, another showed up in our direction, again devoid of any lighting and carrying pickers in bins! Aspertions cast and profanities delivered, the last few k's were covered, but a crook call at the alternative route (inexperience to blame) split the bunch momentarily but all finally made it home safe. Not too many of those rides thanks. Post script; the constabulary are keen to hear immediately of unlit vehicles (front and rear lights are mandatory), particularly carrying people in fruit bins to allow immediate prosecution. Must have been wacky Wednesday, Gools on the ride home from the Cat lap went base over apex on a slippery corner, ripping a hamstring.
A big drop of temperature overnight (explains a more restful sleep) and a swing of wind to a southerly. Out with the base layer to cope with 14 degrees (how quickly we soften) and hesitantly lined up for a Couldabeen lap. The change of conditions had changed some minds, just Rocket, Kenworth, Nick, Cougs, Trav and Daniel brave enough to start. A steady escalation up to speed out Channel Rd (hooray, no cloaked tractors today), lots of turns taken with attendance low and by Channel Rd's end, a quick conference with Cougs confirmed a left turn into Boundary, the young lads left to go right for a thrash into the wind. (Rocket apparently kept the bunch silent) Happier to get in early (and a reprive from the breeze to be honest) it was an easy roll up Boundary (a couple of mystery bunches un identified in the dark) but a slog home into the resistance of a SSW blowing at 22 clicks. I've travelled Old Dookie Rd 1000+ times (literally) but still manage to find the odd pot hole. The tempremental heart rate monitor recorded a 45 bpm average (just concious) but the legs recorded plenty.
Hope sprung eternal at the library Thursday evening with several there waiting, Jamie, Harpo, Dave, Killer and son (recently fed dynamic lifter...piled on six inches and cost dad new shoes and a new bike!) All set sail at six, enjoying being blown to Wanganui Rd by a 28km/h SSW wind. We inherited Simmo just past Lemnos North Rd, Dave driving us well to the Emu. The reality of the headwind wasn't vague on the way to the toaster, matching Jamie's engine was the hard task at 33km/h. Young Luke joined in to lend a strong hand with a pair of strong legs, a few trees shielding some of the wind in Boundary Rd. Dave & I got the short straw after the Pub, wide open paddocks and gusts up to 37km/h tested the tenacity. A chance to recover a little in River Rd until Luke hit the front firing on the big cylinders. All did double duty tonight with the small attendance, a collective sigh of relief to reach Roubaix and have the wind help rather than hinder. But Luke immediately switched to attack mode, thinning the field to single file at 45. Dave saved the day to bridge the gap (towing the bunch back together) and in Conrod Jamie took the initiative of leading out, lucky me to hear his wheels coming from behind, jump on then pass, just enough velocity to hold 'em off to take the chocolates. Thoughts swung quickly from leg pain and lack of oxygen to dinner, with several bbq aromas enjoyed through town. Dark enough now to start carying lights again, the real sign of Summer's demise.
Legs of lead on Friday morning (and a bit low in the motivation reserves too) but just enough to take in a lap of leisure to watch the passing parade of peletons on Freaky Friday. Supercats not so scintillating but 51 were scorching southward. Of course the usual chirpy greetings from P&W's. Legs appreciated the relaxed reconnaissance, overcoming the initial "cant-be-bothered's" pays dividends in mind and muscle after a lap (regardless of distance or tempo)
Week 11 453km 15,855 calories (27 slices / 4.7kg of Black Forrest gateaux) YTD 3,897km
"Our fathers were indeed wise. They invented printing, but not newspapers. They invented gunpowder but used it only for fireworks. Finally, they invented the compass, but took care not to use it to discover America"
Mao Tse-Tung 1893-1976
Took a relaxed ride Sunday, a short circuit to preserve limbs and interest. Just a short tour of Old Dookie, Boundary and Channel Rd, enough for what should be a day of rest. Kept the motivation with what has become a Sunday ritual, the sacrament of coffee and a yarn with Cougs, watching several bunches heading out to do battle with the increasing temperature and humidity.
Set the alarm for a 7am sleep-in for the holiday Monday but the little grey cells were in work routine, open for business at 5am. Diversion only lasted half an hour, so up and away (after sustainance) at 6.30. Plotted a P&W course with near perfect conditions, viewed a magic sunrise tuned into Atoms for Peace and Chet Faker. Not a hint of movement in leaves or branches but heading west in Mitchell added 3km/h to the cruising speed (a hint of the easterly to come?) Several were out making the most of the cool end of the day, I backed off the cruise control with plans to join a few Couldabeens for an 8am Toaster lap. (needed a few volts left to match the crews' amps) Mitchell over, Roubaix & Raftery conquered and Conrod completed, content with a 33.3 at Steptoe's house (only oldies will get that one!) Fronted up to Harveys' to find Temple, Shorty, Tim, FeltMat, AvantiTrev, Steve, Cougs, Rocket, DocPaul and Emmet ready. Had the first shift with Temple down to Roubaix, Trev and Shorty took over but Shorty slowed at Archer, being bit by bee. Long time no see DocPaul, the new Scott steed a little unfamiliar, the faithful Oppy now with the gods. Trev was the little diesel in Old Dookie Rd with the ESE building and the humidity rising. The breeze behind in Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd was a lotion for motion, making a lot of ground on the Adams family on a shortcut loop. Unseen by many, FeltMats' Felt felt flat at the cemetery roundabout, a bindii slowing progress but all eventually assembled for brunch at the Lemontree, hot and humid but commraderie overpowered any discomfort. Pom along for a social debrief too, recovering from the surgeons' knife.
Took the short lap option on Tuesday morning, two days work in one for the start of a shorter week. Fronted the hospital ride on Tuesday evening but all had gone soft (Robbo exempt after some monster rides at the weekend) except young Scott. With the hope of collecting others we set off, 33 degrees and 15km/h of northeast breeze to battle. I was whole wheeled all the way to Lemnos North Rd, (hang on, only HWK has that honour!) playing on the anger nerves, but old grandad's words of "time, patience and perseverence" rang true, Scott eventually burning all his biscuits and retreated behind me to be towed all the way to the Emu. Ignored the anaerobic heart rate with satisfaction compensating, a bit easier for the rest of the journey south and west, young Scott putting in appearance at the front once more after recovering from his earlier enthusiasm. Most pleasing to have Mark join in after the Pub, providing a 30% saving in energy, good progress in River Rd (but Scott half and whole wheeled us both) All finalised at Conrods' end, 1:14 not a bad effort for just 3. (h.r. over aerobic for 29k)
A fairly breezy northerly blew me to the Kialla Couldabeen contingent on Wednesday morning, Nick, Jase, Avanti & FujiTrev, Shorty, Chops, Cougs, Rocket & FeltMat ready to go anti-clockwise. It was going to be solibrious southbound, working westward and nasty north but numbers were there to share the load. Peter and Rosco joined in in Mitchell Rd to lessen the shifts, noting the Supercats filing into River Rd soon after we reached Boundary Rd. There was a sizeable P&W mob and 51 were at warp speed single file in the hunt for victory. FujiTrev's moment of inattention nearly had caused a tangle, a little gust of wind had FeltMat rub elbows with Jase, throwing caution amongst the ranks. Easier going in Channel Rd but in the darkness near Hanlon Rd lurked a tractor trailing several bins, with not a light to be seen. A minute later, another showed up in our direction, again devoid of any lighting and carrying pickers in bins! Aspertions cast and profanities delivered, the last few k's were covered, but a crook call at the alternative route (inexperience to blame) split the bunch momentarily but all finally made it home safe. Not too many of those rides thanks. Post script; the constabulary are keen to hear immediately of unlit vehicles (front and rear lights are mandatory), particularly carrying people in fruit bins to allow immediate prosecution. Must have been wacky Wednesday, Gools on the ride home from the Cat lap went base over apex on a slippery corner, ripping a hamstring.
A big drop of temperature overnight (explains a more restful sleep) and a swing of wind to a southerly. Out with the base layer to cope with 14 degrees (how quickly we soften) and hesitantly lined up for a Couldabeen lap. The change of conditions had changed some minds, just Rocket, Kenworth, Nick, Cougs, Trav and Daniel brave enough to start. A steady escalation up to speed out Channel Rd (hooray, no cloaked tractors today), lots of turns taken with attendance low and by Channel Rd's end, a quick conference with Cougs confirmed a left turn into Boundary, the young lads left to go right for a thrash into the wind. (Rocket apparently kept the bunch silent) Happier to get in early (and a reprive from the breeze to be honest) it was an easy roll up Boundary (a couple of mystery bunches un identified in the dark) but a slog home into the resistance of a SSW blowing at 22 clicks. I've travelled Old Dookie Rd 1000+ times (literally) but still manage to find the odd pot hole. The tempremental heart rate monitor recorded a 45 bpm average (just concious) but the legs recorded plenty.
Hope sprung eternal at the library Thursday evening with several there waiting, Jamie, Harpo, Dave, Killer and son (recently fed dynamic lifter...piled on six inches and cost dad new shoes and a new bike!) All set sail at six, enjoying being blown to Wanganui Rd by a 28km/h SSW wind. We inherited Simmo just past Lemnos North Rd, Dave driving us well to the Emu. The reality of the headwind wasn't vague on the way to the toaster, matching Jamie's engine was the hard task at 33km/h. Young Luke joined in to lend a strong hand with a pair of strong legs, a few trees shielding some of the wind in Boundary Rd. Dave & I got the short straw after the Pub, wide open paddocks and gusts up to 37km/h tested the tenacity. A chance to recover a little in River Rd until Luke hit the front firing on the big cylinders. All did double duty tonight with the small attendance, a collective sigh of relief to reach Roubaix and have the wind help rather than hinder. But Luke immediately switched to attack mode, thinning the field to single file at 45. Dave saved the day to bridge the gap (towing the bunch back together) and in Conrod Jamie took the initiative of leading out, lucky me to hear his wheels coming from behind, jump on then pass, just enough velocity to hold 'em off to take the chocolates. Thoughts swung quickly from leg pain and lack of oxygen to dinner, with several bbq aromas enjoyed through town. Dark enough now to start carying lights again, the real sign of Summer's demise.
Legs of lead on Friday morning (and a bit low in the motivation reserves too) but just enough to take in a lap of leisure to watch the passing parade of peletons on Freaky Friday. Supercats not so scintillating but 51 were scorching southward. Of course the usual chirpy greetings from P&W's. Legs appreciated the relaxed reconnaissance, overcoming the initial "cant-be-bothered's" pays dividends in mind and muscle after a lap (regardless of distance or tempo)
Week 11 453km 15,855 calories (27 slices / 4.7kg of Black Forrest gateaux) YTD 3,897km
"Our fathers were indeed wise. They invented printing, but not newspapers. They invented gunpowder but used it only for fireworks. Finally, they invented the compass, but took care not to use it to discover America"
Mao Tse-Tung 1893-1976
Friday, March 8, 2013
Week 10: Back into the routine
Hats off to the middle aged couple patrolling the lake in the early hours of Saturday morning, rubbish bags and spikes in hand, picking up last night's trash so carefully placed by our classy youth, there was a tidy bunch of lads and ladette at the Archer car park though, ready for the usual weekend activity. Nick, Rocket, an unusually early AvantiTrev, Tim, Shorty, Cougs, Daniel and Temple set forth on schedule, a cooler run with only 12 degrees registering, plenty of pungency from the standing water delivered on Wednesday evening. The pest pooch at the top of Channel Rd seems to be confined to quarters now (maybe thanks to Stace's efforts within COGS). The Smuggler joined us near the Pub (intercepted a rabbit, a snake and two foxes en route) the cruising speed a touch slower today, maybe f#&+ Friday has sapped a little speed off some legs? Barely a hint of breeze to impair us on the route to the toaster and Emu, Wizz and his offsider were crossing the train tracks, well ahead of a long Cat train (25+) back near the kennels. Some aquatic manoevres were needed in Ford Rd, drains still clogged from the recent downpour. Nick played Renshaw nearing the cemetery, leading out Cougs for a cheeky sprint to end the ride. Not all bike banter at the Lemontree, taxation, welfare, condoms for noisy valve stems and floods on the discussion list.
Sleep was unbecoming yet again on Sunday morning, headed out the Boulevard at 6 pondering my mental state, decided it's not so bad seeing two riders arriving back in town after a circuit. The h.r. was in doubt today, only registering 52bpm when up to speed, a new battery needs to go on the shopping list. A reverse of Saturdays lap planned (thankfully water had subsided in Ford Rd) just had to dodge the bunnies scattering the tarmac. Great to watch the sky slowly light up Mt Major, Flight Facilities and Flume putting a soundtrack to the picture. Was making good time when Boundary Rd was reached (Axel on a solo mission northward) so resolved to aim at Saturdays lap time. Sun was up for the Channel Rd leg, pickers up too for a day's toil in the vegetable fields, pleased to finally reach the Kensington roundabout with 13 seconds up my sleeve. Intercepted Cougs to take on a Couldabeens lap as part 2 for the morning but it was a drag (or had someone left the handbrake on?) with a breeze picking up to hinder progress, particularly south when southbound, even a bit southwest when facing westward. Clear skies kept a positive outlook, a little warmth on the back from the rising sun too, Cougs eagle-eyeing a pair of bikes ahead to chase (reeled in Princess and Grant on a leisurely lap at Roubaix) The stimuli of Degani's caffine drove the motivation to the finish line, a yarn with BigMat, Leon, Bo &Kel arriving soon after.
Lots of lumens pierced the darkness of Boundary Rd on Monday morning, a procession of pussycats the sole bunch today (probably a few 51ers mixed in to stir some action), the Goats seem to have become rapidly extinct. A solid lap with the supernana keeps the rigormortis at bay and revives the respiratories to take on another week. BigMat & Jase have posted (Strava) some impressive times of a 23k Mooroopna-Ardmona circuit, so tried out the trail on Monday after work (Axel spied yet again on the way west). 30 degrees with a southeasterly at 18km/h made the first leg in McIssac Rd enthusiastic, predicting some toil needed for the southerly leg down Ardmona Rd. Had a little sheilding from the orchards for the 5k to the highway (crossing it being the only drawback to the course) The road felt quite rough, but 140 in the Fortezza's probably didn't help the comfort level. Over the Midland without much delay (a decent look though with cars at 100) then down to Simpson Rd, but was baulked by an oncoming semi. A dog the size of a small horse was daunting, thankfully only a spectator, not a persuer! Right into Craven then over the highway again, feeling fairly confident of keeping near BigMat's 34.8 record. Reality struck hard turning right into Merrigum-Ardmona Rd, the wind had swung ESE and oncoming trucks carried plenty of gusts to tarnish tempo. A left then right into Cornish Rd, pulled out a big shovel to dig deep but the momentum wore down with the wind unrelenting. Another pooch the size of Phar Lap kicked the adrenelin up (he looked hungrily at my ankles) to get me to Echuca Rd. It was an empty tank for the last 2k, hopes of passing traffic to tow me along quickly vanished, the hard yards with withering speed played havoc on the hopes, but spirits lifted to end with a 35.2 (shaving 70 sec off) No doubt BigMat and Jase will take back the title very soon.
A TeamMat lead out for Tuesday's Couldabeens, the Big and the Felt early to line up. A pair of Trev's too (Avanti & Fuji) joined Tim, Cougs, Temple, Trav, the Kenworth, Daniel, Rocket and Shorty. A favourable and considerate build of speed over the first few legs, Nath arrived just beyond the kinder, Cats arrived early on Boundary (thanks to their 5.50 start) and were left to lead with their route via River. Mitchell is speed alley with a light wind from behind, all the way to Central Kialla (loving the 56/11 combo) at a great rate, Cats turning into Mitchell with a similar gap to 8k's prior. Daniel & Temple turned for home at Archer, the rest had a wait for traffic at Melbourne Rd keeping the two packs seperate, Rocket Nath took BigMat on an excursion to measure the difference but BigMat came back to sensibility by Arcadia Downs, a group finish in just 45:27 to get us all home early.
Tuesday nights ride has a glimmer of hope of increasing numbers, 6 at the start is an improvement. Robbo, Harpo, Jamie, Simmo and Axel all good supporters. An ideal evening, 30 degrees with a light north easter promising an easier ride home. Just a few cars overtaking on the tour to the Emu, one with trailer laden on a house move. Just over the east Goulburn channel we faced a large lounge suite as a road chicane, dislodged less than a minute before (the offender unaware or content to let sleeping suites lie). An easier run from the Emu to the toaster, Trent, Trudy and Tony joining in. Beyond the pungent piggery, young Rhys attached himself (a recovery ride for him, the weekends' 65k race averaging 45+ had taken the edge off) Corniest jokes swapped with Jamie on the journet south, a turn trying to keep up with Harpo, then a tow from Robbo & Rhys for most of River Rd. All kept fairly tidy till the last few hundred metres of Conrod straight, Robbo bolting to 53 into a light headwind, Trent chasing (and passing in the last few metres), this old engine hanging on for 3rd.
Down to the south of town Wednesday morning for a short and sweet lap. Something was moving in the bike lane in the 5.30 darkness, some bloke on a supermarket bike on his way to work (black backpack, grey jumper and dark trousers), his life worth less than a cheap tail-light and a torch it seems. A shorter lap with Cougs today to let limbs limber up, south to Mitchell, west to Raftery and a squirt home, helped with yet another mild morning and a little breeze behind. Good to put a little variety in, not stuck in the same groove.
Thursday's thrash had most of the Couldabeens crew, BigMat was on a carbo loading fishing trip but Brent & Jase were back for a dose. A smooth start allowed a proper warm up, favoured Tim too after a tough hockey session. Crafty Cats conspicuously camoflaged, curtailed Couldabeens chase (calming concerns) consolidating compact conformity. The Pom may have done a Beaullieu (or is he on a 457 Visa?) so FujiTrev inherits the senior citz role, he was chuffed to play a part amongst the young 'uns , we're lucky to have a considerate crew, lots of eyes out for all at intersections, maintaining bunch solidarity. A hint of tail wind in Mitchell kept the wheels humming, and youth was the advantage in Conrod straight (Nick making Rocket use all his afterburners to win) but all were pleased with a team finish, only a minute thirty behind Tuesday's effort.
Fridays 23 degrees and northeast breeze was bearable, lots of low cloud bumped up the humidity though, as welcome as a Labor Party opinion poll. 3 time triallers shot southward in Boundary Rd, starting the procession of peletons for freaky Friday. A sizeable set of Supercats were similarly southbound, 51, crossing the highway, had the hammer down in hot pursuit, a positive poliferation of P&W's had cleared the aroma of the piggery and a collection of not-so-super Cats were a k behind. Just for a change, we had a bike ahead on a similar route, motivating a decent pursuit in Old Dookie (nearly caught but for the hinderance of traffic at Doyles Rd)
Week 10; 421 km 14,735 calories (4.42kg of Roquefort cheese) YTD 3,444
"Never explain. Your friends do not need it and your enemies will not believe you anyway"
Elbert Hubbard US writer / philosopher 1856-1915
If you've enjoyed the featured photographs at the top, check out "Dookie - via lens" exhibition for many more finer photos from local lens lads and ladies (and a few more from Foss). Dookie Hall 10am-4pm this and next weekend. $2 entry. Go on, ride out, view, coffee & cake at the Cafe or wine & cheese at the Pub, then enjoy the ubiquitous head wind home!
Sleep was unbecoming yet again on Sunday morning, headed out the Boulevard at 6 pondering my mental state, decided it's not so bad seeing two riders arriving back in town after a circuit. The h.r. was in doubt today, only registering 52bpm when up to speed, a new battery needs to go on the shopping list. A reverse of Saturdays lap planned (thankfully water had subsided in Ford Rd) just had to dodge the bunnies scattering the tarmac. Great to watch the sky slowly light up Mt Major, Flight Facilities and Flume putting a soundtrack to the picture. Was making good time when Boundary Rd was reached (Axel on a solo mission northward) so resolved to aim at Saturdays lap time. Sun was up for the Channel Rd leg, pickers up too for a day's toil in the vegetable fields, pleased to finally reach the Kensington roundabout with 13 seconds up my sleeve. Intercepted Cougs to take on a Couldabeens lap as part 2 for the morning but it was a drag (or had someone left the handbrake on?) with a breeze picking up to hinder progress, particularly south when southbound, even a bit southwest when facing westward. Clear skies kept a positive outlook, a little warmth on the back from the rising sun too, Cougs eagle-eyeing a pair of bikes ahead to chase (reeled in Princess and Grant on a leisurely lap at Roubaix) The stimuli of Degani's caffine drove the motivation to the finish line, a yarn with BigMat, Leon, Bo &Kel arriving soon after.
Lots of lumens pierced the darkness of Boundary Rd on Monday morning, a procession of pussycats the sole bunch today (probably a few 51ers mixed in to stir some action), the Goats seem to have become rapidly extinct. A solid lap with the supernana keeps the rigormortis at bay and revives the respiratories to take on another week. BigMat & Jase have posted (Strava) some impressive times of a 23k Mooroopna-Ardmona circuit, so tried out the trail on Monday after work (Axel spied yet again on the way west). 30 degrees with a southeasterly at 18km/h made the first leg in McIssac Rd enthusiastic, predicting some toil needed for the southerly leg down Ardmona Rd. Had a little sheilding from the orchards for the 5k to the highway (crossing it being the only drawback to the course) The road felt quite rough, but 140 in the Fortezza's probably didn't help the comfort level. Over the Midland without much delay (a decent look though with cars at 100) then down to Simpson Rd, but was baulked by an oncoming semi. A dog the size of a small horse was daunting, thankfully only a spectator, not a persuer! Right into Craven then over the highway again, feeling fairly confident of keeping near BigMat's 34.8 record. Reality struck hard turning right into Merrigum-Ardmona Rd, the wind had swung ESE and oncoming trucks carried plenty of gusts to tarnish tempo. A left then right into Cornish Rd, pulled out a big shovel to dig deep but the momentum wore down with the wind unrelenting. Another pooch the size of Phar Lap kicked the adrenelin up (he looked hungrily at my ankles) to get me to Echuca Rd. It was an empty tank for the last 2k, hopes of passing traffic to tow me along quickly vanished, the hard yards with withering speed played havoc on the hopes, but spirits lifted to end with a 35.2 (shaving 70 sec off) No doubt BigMat and Jase will take back the title very soon.
A TeamMat lead out for Tuesday's Couldabeens, the Big and the Felt early to line up. A pair of Trev's too (Avanti & Fuji) joined Tim, Cougs, Temple, Trav, the Kenworth, Daniel, Rocket and Shorty. A favourable and considerate build of speed over the first few legs, Nath arrived just beyond the kinder, Cats arrived early on Boundary (thanks to their 5.50 start) and were left to lead with their route via River. Mitchell is speed alley with a light wind from behind, all the way to Central Kialla (loving the 56/11 combo) at a great rate, Cats turning into Mitchell with a similar gap to 8k's prior. Daniel & Temple turned for home at Archer, the rest had a wait for traffic at Melbourne Rd keeping the two packs seperate, Rocket Nath took BigMat on an excursion to measure the difference but BigMat came back to sensibility by Arcadia Downs, a group finish in just 45:27 to get us all home early.
Tuesday nights ride has a glimmer of hope of increasing numbers, 6 at the start is an improvement. Robbo, Harpo, Jamie, Simmo and Axel all good supporters. An ideal evening, 30 degrees with a light north easter promising an easier ride home. Just a few cars overtaking on the tour to the Emu, one with trailer laden on a house move. Just over the east Goulburn channel we faced a large lounge suite as a road chicane, dislodged less than a minute before (the offender unaware or content to let sleeping suites lie). An easier run from the Emu to the toaster, Trent, Trudy and Tony joining in. Beyond the pungent piggery, young Rhys attached himself (a recovery ride for him, the weekends' 65k race averaging 45+ had taken the edge off) Corniest jokes swapped with Jamie on the journet south, a turn trying to keep up with Harpo, then a tow from Robbo & Rhys for most of River Rd. All kept fairly tidy till the last few hundred metres of Conrod straight, Robbo bolting to 53 into a light headwind, Trent chasing (and passing in the last few metres), this old engine hanging on for 3rd.
Down to the south of town Wednesday morning for a short and sweet lap. Something was moving in the bike lane in the 5.30 darkness, some bloke on a supermarket bike on his way to work (black backpack, grey jumper and dark trousers), his life worth less than a cheap tail-light and a torch it seems. A shorter lap with Cougs today to let limbs limber up, south to Mitchell, west to Raftery and a squirt home, helped with yet another mild morning and a little breeze behind. Good to put a little variety in, not stuck in the same groove.
Thursday's thrash had most of the Couldabeens crew, BigMat was on a carbo loading fishing trip but Brent & Jase were back for a dose. A smooth start allowed a proper warm up, favoured Tim too after a tough hockey session. Crafty Cats conspicuously camoflaged, curtailed Couldabeens chase (calming concerns) consolidating compact conformity. The Pom may have done a Beaullieu (or is he on a 457 Visa?) so FujiTrev inherits the senior citz role, he was chuffed to play a part amongst the young 'uns , we're lucky to have a considerate crew, lots of eyes out for all at intersections, maintaining bunch solidarity. A hint of tail wind in Mitchell kept the wheels humming, and youth was the advantage in Conrod straight (Nick making Rocket use all his afterburners to win) but all were pleased with a team finish, only a minute thirty behind Tuesday's effort.
Fridays 23 degrees and northeast breeze was bearable, lots of low cloud bumped up the humidity though, as welcome as a Labor Party opinion poll. 3 time triallers shot southward in Boundary Rd, starting the procession of peletons for freaky Friday. A sizeable set of Supercats were similarly southbound, 51, crossing the highway, had the hammer down in hot pursuit, a positive poliferation of P&W's had cleared the aroma of the piggery and a collection of not-so-super Cats were a k behind. Just for a change, we had a bike ahead on a similar route, motivating a decent pursuit in Old Dookie (nearly caught but for the hinderance of traffic at Doyles Rd)
Week 10; 421 km 14,735 calories (4.42kg of Roquefort cheese) YTD 3,444
"Never explain. Your friends do not need it and your enemies will not believe you anyway"
Elbert Hubbard US writer / philosopher 1856-1915
If you've enjoyed the featured photographs at the top, check out "Dookie - via lens" exhibition for many more finer photos from local lens lads and ladies (and a few more from Foss). Dookie Hall 10am-4pm this and next weekend. $2 entry. Go on, ride out, view, coffee & cake at the Cafe or wine & cheese at the Pub, then enjoy the ubiquitous head wind home!
Friday, March 1, 2013
Week 9 Less is more
A break with routine and a rare weekend off the bike, a break too from this blog for a week, low on nonsensical nouns, vicarious verbs, lacking literary lucidity, somewhat saturated in semantic satiation. (A big glass of icy cold motivation mixed with sarcasm thanks barman). Apologies to those who missed the weeks' babble, a relief for many to have gone without i'd say.
A customary lap on Monday morning relieving the rigormortis (self imposed from the 48 hour sabbatical) and climatising the posterior to the Fizik instead of a couch or Toyota. Funny how quickly the engine de-tunes, I can't do a Ronnie, 3 months off and just a few days to get back to speed. The mild 23 degrees was a positive, the northeaster was a negative on the legs. Thankfully the pace wasn't frantic. Summer is slipping as quick as a politicians promise, the sun not out of bed till 7 (can anyone remember riding at 6 without need for lights?) Hope sprang eternal with a tail wind home (always a great recipe) just had to match Cougs' enthusiasm to reach the finish.
The bureau radar painted a dismal picture Tuesday morning, the BM sat static and I got up to date on household chores (Rocket, Temple, Daniel & Nath went out to play.....as boys do). Tuesday arvo was
far more agreeable, so off to the hospital to see who dared. Jamie, Robbo, Axel & Harpo were starters, Simmo found loitering with some intent 10 minutes out of town. Some exertion needed against the light north easter, Axel content to be towed after 6 weeks of leisurely laps. Trudi, Tony and two others made up the numbers as we passed the Pine Lodge church, all directions homeward easier going so tempo was adjusted accordingly. A lot of regulars seem to have abandoned the Tuesday night ship for some reason, maybe the invasion of big guns has a few concerned. (there are very few canons in the armorery now and teamwork is high on the agenda for anyone planning to re-dip a toe in the water) Axel's (former?) anti-clockwise group plied north in Boundary Rd as our tenacious ten headed to River Rd and beyond, temperature dropping to a very comfortable 28. The usual procession to Mitchell Rd then Raftery, something amused Jamie, cackling away like a cockatoo out of Roubaix, but no steam in my boiler at the end, o.t.a. by 4 lengths at the finish was a bit disheartening but will put it down to an off day. 42k's in 1.10.50 wasn't too bad though.
Not many TT'ers on Wednesday, good numbers for the regular P&W lap though. Stace & (happy birthday) Fee led us out admirably for most of Old Dookie, I'd inherited Al for the run to the pub, a smoother line to be had with less chat. A bit of disaray today, (happy birthday) Meags had quietly u-turned, Cougs had taken Channel Rd homeward, HWK and Tommygun opened the throttle stretching the pack long, all the big k's of tri training have lots on a mission for forthcoming half & full distance IM's. I took the Archer option to get a head start to the working day, intercepting the Couldabeens on the last few metres of Channel Rd. Timing was just a few minutes out, a brief shower a km from home settled the dust and put squeak into the chain.
Thursdays' atmostphere dampened the ground and dampened thoughts of a ride, it's almost down to winter kilometers this week but to be honest, i've enjoyed the lesser laps . Friday's southerly made a 25k loop of Channel-Boundary-Old Dookie very appealing, little incentive to belt the thighs to a pulp, 12 degrees feeling like 10 not helping either. Headed south in the main street watching the passing parade of northbound victims to the battlefields of 51 and supercats, like lambs to the slaughter, but there's always a wave from gentleman Graeme. A young fox sprinted across Channel Road in the near darkness, quite a sight approaching Boundary Rd to see a super-long stretch of supercats, like watching a long string of flashing Christmas lights towed south. A few hundred metres back, the howl of carbon wheels and singing singles signalled 51 in hot pursuit, it's freaky Friday for them and F#&% Friday for the Couldabeens on a similar but anti-clockwise mission.
Week 9 165km 5775 calories (1.2kg Aloo Gosht Kari curry) YTD 3023km
"Every saint has a past, every sinner has a future" Oscar Fingal O'Flahertie Wills Wilde
Irish dramatist 1854-1900
A customary lap on Monday morning relieving the rigormortis (self imposed from the 48 hour sabbatical) and climatising the posterior to the Fizik instead of a couch or Toyota. Funny how quickly the engine de-tunes, I can't do a Ronnie, 3 months off and just a few days to get back to speed. The mild 23 degrees was a positive, the northeaster was a negative on the legs. Thankfully the pace wasn't frantic. Summer is slipping as quick as a politicians promise, the sun not out of bed till 7 (can anyone remember riding at 6 without need for lights?) Hope sprang eternal with a tail wind home (always a great recipe) just had to match Cougs' enthusiasm to reach the finish.
The bureau radar painted a dismal picture Tuesday morning, the BM sat static and I got up to date on household chores (Rocket, Temple, Daniel & Nath went out to play.....as boys do). Tuesday arvo was
far more agreeable, so off to the hospital to see who dared. Jamie, Robbo, Axel & Harpo were starters, Simmo found loitering with some intent 10 minutes out of town. Some exertion needed against the light north easter, Axel content to be towed after 6 weeks of leisurely laps. Trudi, Tony and two others made up the numbers as we passed the Pine Lodge church, all directions homeward easier going so tempo was adjusted accordingly. A lot of regulars seem to have abandoned the Tuesday night ship for some reason, maybe the invasion of big guns has a few concerned. (there are very few canons in the armorery now and teamwork is high on the agenda for anyone planning to re-dip a toe in the water) Axel's (former?) anti-clockwise group plied north in Boundary Rd as our tenacious ten headed to River Rd and beyond, temperature dropping to a very comfortable 28. The usual procession to Mitchell Rd then Raftery, something amused Jamie, cackling away like a cockatoo out of Roubaix, but no steam in my boiler at the end, o.t.a. by 4 lengths at the finish was a bit disheartening but will put it down to an off day. 42k's in 1.10.50 wasn't too bad though.
Not many TT'ers on Wednesday, good numbers for the regular P&W lap though. Stace & (happy birthday) Fee led us out admirably for most of Old Dookie, I'd inherited Al for the run to the pub, a smoother line to be had with less chat. A bit of disaray today, (happy birthday) Meags had quietly u-turned, Cougs had taken Channel Rd homeward, HWK and Tommygun opened the throttle stretching the pack long, all the big k's of tri training have lots on a mission for forthcoming half & full distance IM's. I took the Archer option to get a head start to the working day, intercepting the Couldabeens on the last few metres of Channel Rd. Timing was just a few minutes out, a brief shower a km from home settled the dust and put squeak into the chain.
Thursdays' atmostphere dampened the ground and dampened thoughts of a ride, it's almost down to winter kilometers this week but to be honest, i've enjoyed the lesser laps . Friday's southerly made a 25k loop of Channel-Boundary-Old Dookie very appealing, little incentive to belt the thighs to a pulp, 12 degrees feeling like 10 not helping either. Headed south in the main street watching the passing parade of northbound victims to the battlefields of 51 and supercats, like lambs to the slaughter, but there's always a wave from gentleman Graeme. A young fox sprinted across Channel Road in the near darkness, quite a sight approaching Boundary Rd to see a super-long stretch of supercats, like watching a long string of flashing Christmas lights towed south. A few hundred metres back, the howl of carbon wheels and singing singles signalled 51 in hot pursuit, it's freaky Friday for them and F#&% Friday for the Couldabeens on a similar but anti-clockwise mission.
Week 9 165km 5775 calories (1.2kg Aloo Gosht Kari curry) YTD 3023km
"Every saint has a past, every sinner has a future" Oscar Fingal O'Flahertie Wills Wilde
Irish dramatist 1854-1900
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