Friday evening was off the bike, but a bike related 'knee's up' at the Tri Club 25th anniversary dinner. The quick chicks had morphed to glam chicks frocked up for the festivities (The lads quite dapper in decent attire too). Fine words from Pres Stace (with kind words layed on) and a big cheer for Sooty scoring a life member gong. A carbo and protein overload with a big feed, and i'm sure the big wedge of lemon meringue was an essential food group, vital for well being.
A dozen turned up for Team Trev Saturday morning, last to arrive the long missing Chris the Pom, with a missing helmet (early onset dementia?) The embarrasment chasm swallowed him instantly to retreat home for the essential brain bucket, the rest set off in 4.6 degrees with a helping hand from a light south west wind. No BigMat but FeltMat attended, Shorty, GG, Rocket, Trav, Nick, Cougs, Trev, Steve and Jase filled the ranks. Up Boundary the Pom returned (correctly attired this time) to join the banter and social discourse. Gravel has been swept from Ford Rd at last, the eastbound Cat pack passed with (permanent?) tail-lights Dawg and Goose attached (avoiding bird strikes, or work?). Andrew was rolling out the same direction soon after, our group on a steady cruise control to Rudd Rd. but Steve had mixed thermite in his Weet-Bix to bolt to the finish line (uncontested). Retired to the Lemontree (most convivial to conversation) then followed up a 2nd dose of caffine at the Butterfactory, chin wagging with (recent lifesaver) Sprinter and the Cats. 5 x 6.45 ers in at 8.20 so a yarn with Hoffy too.
A late evening text from Temple teed up a medium paced ride early Sunday, a pair of Benalla worn legs thrashed hard Friday needed some sympathy. Headed out Archer (the manic magpie no longer on the attack.....laughing too much at Ken's zip ties?) then east in Mitchell. A double doona layer of fog hung in the lowlands, the rising sun streamed rainbows of light through the branches as if to herald a second coming (a modest halo upon Temples head? Perhaps light shining from another orifice?) Much was discussed along the course particularly the miserly 4 degrees we scored to start a day. Passed the piggery (a familiar Shaw gait southbound) and charted a north passage to Ford, then west homeward. The odd twos and threes were now on the circuit (one with lipstick!) enjoying temperature now rising. Rounded up a newbie on an ancient steed, equipped with runners, bike rack, trousers and safety vest, but at least having a dip. Back into town via Wanganui and Rudd and into the Butterfactory, a banana toast & coffee to finish. 17,220 on the pedometer.
A steady anti-clockwise ride Monday morning witnessing the usual bunches heading south. Only Fox & Meags representing the P&W's (many on a recovery from big k's at the weekend?) Cats were chasing a Rabbit, even Liam out solo on executive hours. An enjoyable lap without the need to re-write the record book, ideal to start a new week. At last a real Spring day, 26 degrees was worth enjoying after work (after convincing the defeatist side to ride) Another random circuit based on the simple formula of a tail wind home. Headed west on the Midland to the urban sprawl of Byrneside with a NNW blowing a challenge at 18km/h. Nearly a wind shear with oncoming trucks almost blowing the bike backward. The usual obstacles, flotsam & jetsam by the highway were avoided, turning into more toil along Brewer Rd toward Merrigum. 11k's of head wind tested the pace calculation, pleased to keep the tempo just in the 30's till Lancaster, the channel bridge felt like a catagory 3 climb though. 14k's of side wind to deal with for the long haul of Mooroopna-Lancaster Rd, eyes peeled for some sections without a stopping (pseudo cycling) lane. A bit of a let down in Mooroopna-Wyuna Rd, not the wind assistance i'd hoped for (or was the tank emptying?) but finally back into town to total 60k in 1.50. Today's pedometer at 45,923.
12 degrees on Tuesday attracted a record turn-up to Archer and Channel. 18 Couldabeens had teamed up and suprise, suprise, BigMat was there, Chris the Pom with helmet attached, Daniel on time and many braving shorts, possibly attempting to coax the sun out. A smooth start slowly built up a rate of knots where all survived, good strength in a physically and mentally bonded team, considerate eyes out on turns kept the bond too. Picked up an early stray feline in Boundary Rd, if there was a trace of wind it was behind us now. HR was in Zone 3 for Mitchell matching the drive of BigMat then Leon at the front. Yet another transient tomcat was swallow up in the speed out of Roubaix, cutting in was a little out of order though. Conrod came into sight as did the medium 40's but we'd only served as a springboard for Rocket (in the box seat, mid pack in the closing stages) to unleash another victory. A 36.1 average a decent rate to start the day, noticed the train had yet to arrive at the station, driver still in bed?
A late afternoon shower dampened enthusiasm and motivation to fly out a greasy road attempting to keep up with young guns, enough kilometers done so far, pedometer needs a rest too at 29605 for the day.
Lucky on Wednesday to be treated to a full set of quick chicks at SPC. Fee, Meags, Hayley, Cougs, Kylie & Stace rolled away just on 5 to, by Dobson's estate Weapon had joined in to complete arguably the best looking & smoothest bunch in town. Cool again out of town but warmed up keeping pace with the femme fatale's. A calmer Couldabeen crew were headed north, a solitary Greendawg 5 minutes behind. I had quite a push to match Hayle's horsepower, Meags and Fee doing long turns, Cougs picked it up a few notches in Mitchell, Kylie hammering along.....I might need to sit on the back in the near future? Across Central Kialla big Shirms cruised past at a handy pace, 500 meters later Eggy, Nev and crew in pursuit. 51 (Act 3) then passed us just on Archer Rd, Vince and company with a lot to do. We had an unusually traffic free run across Melbourne Rd and a smooth trip down Raftery, Stace squeezing the gas pedal for a blast to the finish. Remorse shown for the train driver allowing him to leave 40 seconds before we crossed the line.
A dozen Couldabeens lined up Thursday morning, Dalton back after a big assult on the hills Monday, but a few absentees (maybe from a big effort Tuesday?) An elephant stamp for BigMat (two rides this week). The waft of blood & bone spread on Channel Rd veggie farms fertilised Jase & Daniel to power up, Trev's sensibility brought things back to managable. A stray girl Cat today (feline's testing our water?) jumped on in Boundary, BigMat jumped half a bike eager on me in Mitchell. At Archer Rd we bid our farewells to Daniel and Temple, female feline fatigued, feared frying? Excitement grew with an easy cross of the highway but there was no excitement in my legs, so sat back to watch a perfectly choreographed sprint by Rocket, launch site predicted to perfection. 35.3 a good effort in pea-soup conditions, train driver back in his place again (asleep) Pedometer 33,288
Felt the need to put a longer ride in Thursday arvo (climatising to 30 & 40k rides me thinks) and a perfect 22 degrees to boot. Rolled out past Tarcoola and the golf course, onto Wanganui and Ford but north on Lemnos North Rd and onto Jubilee, avoiding dead tigers (snakes) and live long-necked turtles. A tiny puff of a south west breeze took me to 5 ways then south on Cosgrove North Rd chasing a tractor (which turned off 300 meters shy of catching it) It's a long stretch of tarmac to the Emu (smoother surface helps in the 2nd half) then veered east to the quarry. Plenty of spilt stone in Quarry Rd, a lot nicer to turn west and head toward the church (no sins to confess, well today anyway) then resume the toaster circuit clockwise. Kept an eye rearward for the Library bunch and kept an eye on cadence (trying to "spin" a bit on the 16 sprocket, if 76 is rotating) Attempting to hold mid 30's was becoming increasingly tiring but made it to River Rd, spying Bo (slow) eastbound on a flash set of carbons. Almost to Central Kialla Rd a long list of library lads finally caught and overtook, Eggy, Bo and many new faces spelled a fast one. A dozen g'days from familiar faces (some stressed by speed) drew slowly away, I was quite content to roll at my speed instead of hanging on to a bunch and doing a couple of fast turns. Soon caught young Scott (cast off the back) and 3 others took Archer home, tail between their legs. I pushed on the usual course (Scott's windtrainer winter hadn't prepared him for the reality of the road) and emptied the biscuit barrel trying (in vein) for a 40 finish, but chuffed to chalk up a solo 80k's @ 33 (=3 bacon double cheese burgers and a diet coke, but cooked something a little more nutritious) Pedometer 49,675
Meags, Fee, Stace, Cougs, and Hayley were the determined ones Friday am. A quiet lap thanks to some intensive running and netball activity last night suited me fine. (joints needed oiling, muscles a bit ragged from last nights effort) No argument giving way to a B double at the roundabout on the way out, no argument having gentlemen Trav and Ryno from the Couldabeens join us to share the load after Channel Rd either. Temple and Daniel were anti-clockwise in Boundary Rd (maybe on a recovery too?) while we were treated to a slight helping hand in Mitchell with a light breeze behind. Puddytats gradually reeled us in and showed great sense waiting till after the last bend of Conrod to pass, giving fair space too. (good to see Doc out of hibernation at last) Allowed the train priveleges of leaving town just a block before we crossed the track. 39,765 steps today. Red wine as recovery!
Week 42 474km 17,064 calories (see picture...5 x 750g) 32.2km/h average YTD 16,315km
"Those who mind don't matter, those who matter don't mind" Bernard Baruch US financier 1870-1965
For the first time in 30 weeks, rain shut down Saturdays ideas of a lap (bit of a treat getting a sleep-in)
Sunday sprang hopeful in the weather department thankfully, getting a bit itchy for a ride. Joined Cougs for a scenic and southerly tour to Rushy, into a freshening head wind but enthusiasm came pondering the bakery sustainance, coffee and a tail wind home. The long stretch of tarmac to Hartson (foot & mouth capital of Victoria) seems endless, the Basin coming into view puts an end to the mundane and some variety in gears and elevation. Had an agro magpie visit for the first time this year (but he only gave us a 50% swoop). Soon over the lumpy bits, into Rushy and wrapping the laughing gear around a muffin and coffee when Sly rolled in (via Ky) to pour an apple slice into the tank. Formed a trio for the return, the forecast south wester making life a bit easier, quite chilly through the hilly bits but warmed enough on the flat to make an enjoyable and steady 60k chalked up. Who needed to get wet yesterday? (Some it seems)
Only Meags, Weapon & Cougs enlisted for P&W duty on Monday, winter still has a grip on temperature. A light slowly enlarged from behind at the end of Old Dookie, Tommygun had caught us (must have his clock set on Eastern Standard Daniel Time?) There was a little resistance heading south and noticed 4 in Channel Rd approaching Boundary. Couldabeens Nick, GG, Tim & Rocket had joined the course and finally caught on at the turn into Mitchell, all welcomed into the fold to share the workload. Puddytats passed after Central Kialla, Vince (bored?) on the hands free. We all had a muscular and respiratory reprise after Roubaix corner with the respectful Couldabeens gentlemen rolling in with the team, earning brownie points with the harem.
Daylight savings opens up options in the arvo so rekindled the random Monday circuit to add distance and variety, dispensing with the lighting gear (but kept the base layer predicting a chilly end) A relentless south west wind was still in force (18km/h) heading out Toolamba Rd so tuned into Tame Impala's new album (ironically "Lonerism"...bit sad eh?) to motivate the muscles. Discovered a new tourist spot near the Tat turn-off, a tarmac grand canyon that could swallow a whole Mavic. (thankfully avoided) Got into Toolamba at peak hour (well, it was busy at the pub anyway) then east toward the highway and the posterior punishment of Union Rd. Wind had dropped to 7km/h for the turn north into Central Kialla Rd so lost a helping hand to Central Kialla and up to Boundary via Mitchell. Still light at 6.50 but chose to dip out on the toaster/emu option, straight up Boundary instead to ensure there was some light left to get through town. It had turned a touch icy in places in Ford Rd (glad to have a base layer blocking off the chill) and there was just enough sun left to push on to a Rudd Rd finish, tallying up 65k at 33. A workplace pedometer challenge started this week; 31,677 steps today, helped by the meter attached on the ride.
Nearly a full house at the Archer St shop on Tuesday, despite just 5 degrees registering. Daniel was on time today (must have got his clock right changing to daylight savings?) Dalton is becoming a regular participant (as if he needs to get stronger!) , Liam back again, good to have FeltMatt along too (holding on well for an apprentice) Much acclaim at the attendance of BigMat today, earned a lot of sledging for his no-show Monday. A posse of 16 rolled out at 6 bells, all halted at the alt. route for traffic a bit larger and faster than us. Young Nath was at the top of Channel to add more horsepower, a considerate turn into Boundary let everyone catch on. Rotations ticked over like a clock (save those resting legs from a Benalla bashing on Sunday) down to Central Kialla. Leon & Daniel departed in Archer, a need to activate auto surge control for the next k or so (bit like a yo-yo on the back) , almost a relief that traffic halted us again at Melbourne Rd. The usual proceedure to Arcadia Downs where boys get itchy for a sprint. A hard charging Kenworth looked likely to take the win, but our nemisis Rocket had lit the afterburner to reign supreme. All rolled back into town long before the train departed.
A dozen had assembled at the hospital at 6 on Tuesday, Robbo had survived a slow head on in a weekend MTB event, soon-to-be councillor (?) Dave survived a wet weekend of Melbourne racing, even had the Weapon along (on a swan-song tour for the TT Felt?) In typical form there were casts of thousands out Ford Rd, amongst them Gools, Sprinter, hadn't seen Wongy for ages, Huggy back on two wheels too. Several of the big calibre guns had assembled at the rear (plotting their break) which was launched just after the Emu, Bomber taking Hamish, Dave, Steigy, Mitch and others up the pain road but the majority were content with a steady ride without bursting a head gasket. Turned into Boundary and shared the lead with Steve down to the pub, still keeping the breakaway in sight, though becoming more distant. River Rd, Central Kialla & Mitchell Roads travelled without much pain or incident but Axel delivered the caution we had inherited the young aromatic chicane on the back. Sure as eggs he finally came up to the front in the last 2k's, took the lead, thrashed two lengths ahead and promptly melted faster than Fukishima's reactor. Mayhem ensued with the bunch swarming past (yes, his invitation was revoked again) . Mo, Dalton, Sly and others wound up the tempo in the last k, a few wild overtaking manoevres in the excitement, but I was happy just to sit back and witness (Monday evening's lap had taken the edge off), home just as sun sunk. Today this blog scored it's 4000th view, Foss flabergasted, thanks for your continued interest. (and the pedometer clocked up 41,626).
A full compliment of 7 quick chicks assembled at SPC on Wednesday including a welcomed debut for the tough Kylie. Tommygun tagged in too , we even picked up Sly who had paused to pick up an escapee bidon. Cougs set a cracking pace on the first leg, all had a momentary ease for traffic at the roundabout. Great to have Hayles back on the mend after a big dose of the lurgy, shame we didn't have a decent temperature back, but we got patches of fog to remind us of the winter past. As always, tenacious teamwork for the course with a now obligatory wait at Melbourne Rd for traffic (a few cars actually had headlights on to see where they're going!) 51 had gradually reeled us in by Arcadia Downs, Eggy's ever eager esteemed ensemble edged east, erring easement, exiting ephemerally (there goes that loose literary lather again!) Pedometer 31,517
Thursday mornings' soaking from the sky donated another indulgent snooze till 6, one could turn to marshmallow quite easily at this rate. Late arvo had the same scenario, not keen on damp roads, black skies and the odds on favourite to being soaked through. Pedometer 17,635 (without bike)
Friday dawned a decent day, off to SPC roundabout (Supercats just exiting town) where lots of chickies were ready to tow an old rooster out. In familiar tradition Tommygun came scuttling up behind at the first roundabout, running late again. The now familiar south wester put up a fight in Boundary but all tackled the elements in fine style. Distant red lights were apparently Couldabeens thrashing out a circuit (craved from missing a lap in yesterdays weather) A few obstacles on the way down Mitchell, fallen branches and a wounded magpie (mowed down in a hail of feathers by Greendawg in the bunch ahead it seems) Copped a honk from a redneck in a red hi-lux but finished our tour upright and intact (ahead of Cats unable to catch) , only to have a maniac in a Mazda fail to give way at Seven Creeks Drive (a rush to fulfil a 7am start?) Pedometer 31,633
Week 41 365km 13,140 calories (867 pickled onions) 31.8 average Y.T.D. 15,841km
"Life is like a 10 speed bicycle, most of us have gears we never use"
Charles M Schultz ("Peanuts" creator 1922-2000)
Old Kanumbra woolshed near Merton July 2012 via i-phone
Gave the Saturday 6.30 ride one more try, seems many have abandoned for other rides or the comfort of a sleep-in, only one or two keep trying to support it. There maybe some Darwinian theory on natural selection, but it seems a shame that the glory days of 20 odd to share the load and laughs have diluted to just a few. May just cross the floor next week to Trev's team, consistent turn-ups, team spirit and a very social get-together is what it's all about. Travelled south to the Peppermill, catching a threesome at the bridge, Dalton and better half Christine, with newbie friend Wazza (recently off the gaspers, threw himself in the deep end of Tuedsay nights thrash) Recriuted the three along to the start, BigMat and Andrew the devotees with quick chick Weapon along to keep standards high. A wicked westerly was forecast, initially at 22km/h kept us pitched a few degrees starboard down Raftery. Swinging east after Roubaix corner brought comfort, down the Mt Nicolaci descent and up the other side brought Tommygun into the fold, running a little behind schedule for the start. Big speed was possible up the length of Mitchell Rd but commonsense dictated a little be left in reserve for the push home, even though an early retreat via Old Dookie had the majority vote. No puddytats sighted this morning, maybe an early retreat for them too? By the time our 7 had turned into Old Dookie we had 32km/h of resistance, gusts to 55. Dalton, BigMat & I had the honours, keeping the bunch compact and intact (fearing a wayward rider being blown to Benalla) Tommygun assisted the final leg for all to enjoy a lengthy caffine revival in town. Just 5 Cats seated at the Butterfactory, seems a testosterone tainted team of Toms tackle a Tour de Titty at two to titilate themselves, turning traitors to the traditional team. (sorry, there goes that poetic prattle again)
Had to reaquaint the gluteus with the Fizik on Monday, a day off the bike on Sunday made things foreign. Meags, Cougs and the Fox were the only ones to toil a P&W circuit. It's October already but just 4 degrees to start the day, can I get my money back? A steady lap to start the week, 51 took till the highway to catch.
Fought off the sloth demons late Monday arvo (always easy to find excuses to stagnate on the couch after work, hardest to drive the enthusiasm to kit up and roll out a few k's) Arrived at Tarcoola (thankfully not as a resident) to find Stace, Sootie, THM and BigMick ready to ride. Rolled up the Boulevard, past the Golf Course and steered right into Wanganui to find a 'world champion' over revving a Cervelo to invade our team, so zipped the lip to avoid litigation. Our 'addition' soon vanished so normal social interaction resumed. In a week, daylight saving will allow the lights to be left behind, maybe extend the distance, forthcoming Tri's may drag a few more into the fold too. Shared the front with THM who was digging deep, good to see for one who's favourite flavour isn't the bike. Stace and Sootie are naturals, BigMick is on the big curve of progress (shame we level out later, trying to shave tiny percentages here and there) 35k soon ticked over, thoughts drifted to dinner with a variety of aromas on the way through town.
Councillor Dave was first on the scene to Tuesdays Couldabeens start (helps driving the ute in) The Kenworth soon appeared hyperventilating, Temple, Shorty, Trav, Cougs, Dalton and Leon assembled too. With numbers up to 10 by 6am we rolled out of the carpark to have Daniel, Jase and Trev appear at the last moment, alarm malfunctions? A coolish 5 degrees and a diminishing south wester helped all out to Boundary Rd, the Kenworth firing on high octane fuel whenever he got to the front. Good to have Tim back after a 6 week (working out of town) absence ; maybe that's BigMat's reason? Allowances made for the slightly rusty ones, a good steady lap clocked up with the oblligatory thrash at the end to get us in town before the train left.
Broke with tradition on Tuesday night, rolled out 15 minutes earlier to do a solo lap (acompanied with lots of thoughts) ahead of the pack. A momentary pause for a (rare) train at the Ford Rd crossing, but otherwise head down to push out to the Emu, solving the Middle East crisis, Uzbekstan's foreign policy and a few quantum physics puzzles, but none of my own. Kamikaze insects are in abundance at dusk, doing my best to keep them from orifices and eyes, trying to keep a decent pace up too (spinning a bit faster tonite at a 72 cadence) Followed the standard Tuesday route (despite my dislike of River Rd) but roads seem a lot longer when solo. The biscuit barrel was emptying by the time Raftery came into view but there were a few crumbs left to get to the finish line with a 34 average.
Wednesdays tonic was a quiet 25k roll without any heroics or targets. An easy ride back through town but a moment when a passing truck suddenly hooked a left turn while beside me. Just avoidable, but hit the brakes when it's trailer behind came across my path! Driver no doubt preoccupied with a coffee, a mobile phone or a culinary treat from a Scottish restaurant?
Little slumber Wednesday night and in the wee hours of Thursday. Eyelids beat the 5am alarm by an hour, so breakfast downed, kit up and knock over an early 45k loop. Daylight comes earlier each day but will slip backward this weekend, at least the evenings will be a bonus (and give the headlight a well earned rest) with daylight savings upon us. Out Ford, down the long stretch of Boundary then Mitchell (longer than a Slipper vs Ashby legal stoush) a bit of the suns' warmth a blessing on the legs (and the enthusiasm) Over the finish line at 6.30, home and prepared for a big (and early) day at the coal face.
Thursday afternoons wind had thankfully eased a bit to get brave enough to front up at the Library to find 10 others, including father/son combo of Andrew & Andy. 6 bells chimed and I drew the fast straw with Nath on the long leg in the lead to the top of Rudd Rd. Eagerly anticipated the rotation (and an ease of tempo?) but next up was Bomber, who'd slipped quietly in behind me un-noticed. Two more k's at Bombers rate burnt me to a crisp, good to then draft and recover (but attempting to avoid the clearing nostrils ahead was no fun) The bunch grew as always, a large battery of w.m.d's got us to the Emu then the toaster quickly, avoiding the cow on the loose near Boundary Rd. Sat at the rear for a while, then a homeward leg via Channel Rd for me tonite. Spying on Paul & Craig's Garmin info (on Strava) later, told that pace continued unabaited for the rest of the usual lap. I was satisfied to run Channel Rd at a good rate, avoiding a fox, magpie, rabbit and Springs' first snake.
A few were northbound for freaky Friday in the early hours, chose instead to tap out 30 on a solo ride, had archived the headlight, dispensed with thermal attire too. Out Old Dookie and over Boundary, Grasshopper, Sosso and Minto spotted oncoming on a TT effort. Wasn't concerned with speed, just zoned into the horizon, dawn arriving on cue. Hark! What light above yonder Mt Major breaks? An amber haze of light awakes, flooded fields with shadows long, O sweet Spring warmth, soothe a troubled.......WTF? Too much zoning, or was it the piggery? A few obstacles to navigate on the leg to the Emu and back to town, a flat magpie, a deceased Dunlop, Springs' 2nd snake (already!), a dead mudflap too. Much patching of Ford Rd's potholes, liberally dusted with gravel f.y.i. Home to enjoy breakfasts 2nd course with time on my side.
Week 40 391km 14,076 calories (45 hot dogs with cheese & onion) 32.1 average YTD 15,476 km
"You have enemies? Good! That means you've stood up for something sometime in your life"
Winston Churchill 1874-1965
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
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
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
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
