Week 43 : More wind and close calls

A cruisy start to Saturday, time up the sleeve on the roll quietly down the main drag, chilled enough at 4 degrees to don the 3/4 knicks and winter gloves. PistolPete & HBK  were made of tougher stuff in shorts, all others (Rocket, Dion, Temple, BigMat, Shorty, Nick and AvantTrev) were rugged up. A delayed start with Dions slow leak (from a tyre), it was launch time a whisker after six to face the cool sunrise. Felt foreign on the first bunch ride since Sunday, matching PistolPete on the first leg a big ask of the legs (I'd climatised to warming up at my pace for nearly a week) The third rotation had HBK and BigMat in gross contravention of the regulations, AvantiTrev calling for credit card details to shout coffee.  The internal weather station read a northeasterly breeze being brewed up even though there was no evidence in the tree branches, the turn into Boundary confirmed the prediction. The aero hatted, trakkie topped TT lad was headed south, Nath (north) aboard the Corsa climbed aboard at the pigfarm, it was deja vu yet again for me in Old Dookie on the front with Nick. Over the bridge PistolPete rolled up for his shift, lowered my head and lowered the gear ratio to dig in for the long drag to the toaster (sticking to the speed limit but exceeding the h.r. limit) North to the Emu, left into Lemnos-Cosgrove, effort declined with the ENE aiding the progress homeward. A long 51 pack were first to appear eastbound, Cats a few minutes back in good numbers. Yesterdays reseal of a few hundred metres of Lemnos-Cosgrove left plenty of coarse stone to roll on, Rockets rear tyre protested with a big cut and instant puncture, calling an intermission to proceedings. A small square of canvas from my kit saved using coffee money to repair the damage, Vince (on a maintenance lap) and Jase (earlier puncture then out on a reverse lap to meet us) arrived to lend some sledge support. Soon repaired and keen to make up the time, more infringements ensued but little complaint was heard. Nath, PistolPete, HBK & I had a short sprint stage to catch the pack after the Grahamvale Rd intersection (HBK unhooked by traffic). Torque was applied to the Mt Wanganui climb (all 20 metres of it) then south in Rudd, past the Canterbury roundabout (a rider waiting there wasn't FujiTrev, he was upright) then the usual velocity through the suburbs in an effort to feed the tank at the Lemontree.  Much hyperbole over breakfast and coffee on camping, comebacks, Melbourne and Sunday's plans, a late arrival by Patrick, Smuggler and Yahoo from an apprenticeship lap. 

Guilt from a Sunday off the bike took hold on Monday, perfect conditions to put in a few k's with 16 degrees on the guage at 5.30. A backward Cat lap to defy convention, south down the main drag then Raftery, Mitchell, Central Kialla, River, Boundary and Old Dookie to earn a bit of toast.  The engine struggled for the first 30 minutes (a later view of the AP observatory explained a light easterly) Just 3 puddytats were wheeling westward in River, five minutes behind a long bunch persued (being wound up by Vince). A pair of tail lights were caught entering Boundary Rd, Patricia and buddy on a breezy breakaway. Resumed the tempo after a brief yarn, a little easier bearing north. Not until Old Dookie did I find some form of rythym, one passing car lending just enough draft to get into the groove.  Back into town with 10 minutes to spare, raisin toast the trophy.

Almost as mild as Monday on Tuesday, off to a Couldabeens lap but pondered the ability to survive with plenty of young and improving lads in the ranks. An excess of solitary distance done of late, not a lot of high speed pursuit though. Took the plunge finding Rocket, Kenworth, Nick, Shorty, Temple, BigMat, PistolPete, Trav (back after a marathon and house move) and GG (aka "Whispering Jack") on comeback number 47. A southerly annoyed us in Channel Rd and certainly tested in Boundary, pace pegged back a little heading south.  BigMat hit the NOs when he rolled over from Nick's turn, putting two bike lengths and 5km/h into the transition. Thought he should enjoy the solitary glory on the front for a k, then bumped up another 4 clicks on my roll over, imitation being the finest form of flattery. Returned to the previous tempo soon after (the old engine almost misfiring) as we caught FeltMat on an advanced reconnisance, recovering from Sunday's 250 round the Bay (with privately chartered boat no less) A smoother pace ensued for Mitchell Rd, AvantiTrev the second advance party caught near the dogleg.  A third advance Couldabeen (Jase) was found loitering at Central Kialla Rd, the recurring puncture from Saturday causing  another missed start. The scenery passed quickly at a brisk pace, soon crossing the highway and rounding the roughness of Roubaix, many withdrew from active duty leaving only the determined to drive.  Into Conrod into the fourties, Shorty and GG offered themselves up as sacrifice to Rocket, PistolPete and the Kenworth, plenty sucumming to fatigue in the closing 400 metres. Had just enough (190bpm @51) to survive for 2nd, Rocket almost days ahead with the choclolates already half eaten. 

Tuesday nights weather was doubtful (swear i could smell rain) so erred on the staying dry side, but could have put in a lap as it happens.  No matter, a tapering week.

Set sail southward Wednesday morning for a Kialla lap. That moment of suspicion when a cars' approach speed to an intersection seems a bit quick gets the fingers to the brake levers post haste. Instinct was rewarded when said car flew straight through the give way. Just 200 metres later, another car rips straight into a roundabout (when I'm already in the middle of it)  putting the squeeze on lane space. I must be invisible with 380 lumens of headlight, a helmet light, a white and yellow jersey, white helmet, shoes, armwarmers and reflective wheel wording. Or maybe these drivers should try driving eyes open? Never presume boys and girls......  The howling westerly (with a bit of a northerly hint in it too) scared a few away, only Rocket, Nick, LegalDave and FeltMat at the Kialla start. The usual PistolPete pick-up in the last metres of Archer, then blissfully blown east along Mitchell Rd, nearly all in the top cog.  Heard of the LegalDave Dookie to Beechworth ride, FeltMat's Round the Bay effort and Rockets venture into Tuesday nights thrash. All good things eventually come to an end (reaching Boundary), headed north with the wind as pushy as a used car salesman (no pun intended Nick) to test straight line ability. A long train of Supercats/51/Hurt Locker bore into River Rd for some torture, 5 a little behind were in for some load sharing i'd guess. We'd caught and passed Rosco on a solo, tuning up after an overseas break I'm told. A goat or 3 were on a puncture pit-stop at the Broken bridges, but it was our turn to lower heads, grit teeth and grind the length of Channel Rd soon after, with a headwind hovering between 26 - 39 km/h. There were brief shelters amongst some trees at times, Nick doing the hard yards though, copping the wide open spaces on the front emptied his tank quickly.  I took Nicks shift for the final stage, his prior effort earned a break and two breakfasts. 

Another keen westerly started the day Thursday, this one with a hint of southerly about it. Felt the need to go solo to ponder life's mysteries, Pythagorus' theorum etc., so rolled out Old Dookie with the wind behind wondering what torture the return trip would offer. Kept the ticker at aerobic level to the toaster, up to the Emu, then head down for the long 12 k back to Rudd Rd with the WSW at 25 clicks (one wonders the reason at times like these) Found a rythym on the 15 tooth cog that kept the lungs/heart from explosion but working none the less. Just as the h.r. climbed into the mid 160's a small line of trees here and there offered a little shelter to recover. Soon enough the township came into view to find the motivation home, legs were a bit rubbery up Mt Wanganui but Rudd Rd's reprieve was sweet southbound.  

The week's had more wind than a bag full of dim sims, Thursday night no exception with a southwesterly not giving up easily. Down to the Library to join with Robbo, Paul, Nath, Hamish, Rocket & Dalton, where are Axel, Clive, Sean, Skeeta, Dave, Harpo, Sprinter, Gools, LegalSteve etc etc? (All now missing in action presumed to be softening on couches). Off at 6 with Mitch and Steigy jumping aboard in the first 100 metres, Nath and Robbo set a rapid agenda out Rudd Rd. Rocket followed suit for Wanganui (Craig attached as passenger) scoring many of us some Strava PB's in the pusuit to Numurkah Rd.  I'd hoped all the eastward enthusiasm (40+) would make way for conservatism facing the wind at the Emu turn, but it was Mitch and Rocket against a mid 20's southerly doing the measuring (but no quotes) to the Pine Lodge church  (a closely matched pair). Dalton had the handbrake of asthma to contend with, Robbo took a natural break nearing the toaster which (thankfully) eased the pace for a bit so he could rejoin. The bunch had regrouped by Boundary Rd, speed elevated again as Rocket and Mitch cranked up test #2 over the bridges. River Rd seemed shorter at a brisk pace, managed to do duty for Central Kialla Rd (thanks to the courtesy of Nath and Rocket not tearing my limbs off) albeit a couple of k's off the boil. Trent joined in for the remainder, speed settling below heart attack levels so all may survive. Slowly back into the 40's for Conrod straight most had shelved ideas for a sprint. Temptation was too great for Nath and Paul though, a 150 metre tharsh sorted the pair in that order, a good yarn with many on the roll back through town. 

Robbed of proper temperature Friday morning, 1.5 degees more akin to July than October. No intention of setting records, just a short quiet lap to make sure legs remembered what to do. Cougar back from holidays was in a similar mindset, shaking the rust off. Chewed over the weeks' news on an enjoyable 30k without benchmarks to set or time to beat,  keeps variety in the week and a chance for old limbs to limber.        


Week 43  =  304km   (Karratha to  Barradale W.A.)  YTD 14,937

October Great Cycle Challenge = 1613km

"The pessimist complains about the wind, the optomist expects it to change but the realist adjusts the sail"
William Arthur Ward  US author 1921-1994

Sad to hear of the passing of Frenchman Albert Bourlon (1916-2013), still the record holder for the longest successful breakaway  ('47 T de F).  A 253km effort, scoring a stage win by 16 min.      

Week 42 : Gone with the wind

Mostly deserted streets again Saturday morning, most sensible folk probably blowing out the zeds at 5.30?  For a low i.q. amusement, some young imbecile leapt out from the darkness in front of me in McIntosh so I greeted him in a befitting manner. No sight of warmer weather yet but 6 degrees coaxed nearly a dozen out for the usual ride. Jase, Tim, AvantiTrev, FeltMat, BigMat, HBK, Cougar, Temple, Shorty & Nick set forth in Channel Rd, groundhog day in almost the same order as last week, haste with Jase pace a chase.  A north easter sprung up to make Boundary and Old Dookie a bit of a workout, good to have Smuggler join in to make it a dozen at the figfarm. Deja vu in Old Dookie Rd sharing the front with Nick then Jase, elevating the heart rate (maybe yesterdays 153 km emptied the enthusiasm?) A sizeable clan of P&W's were out early southbound in Cosgrove North Rd, two large packs eastward bound in Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd too. (Greendawg noticed in the first lot, many recognisable pussycats in the second.) The cruise control was set to the regulations heading back to town with an 11km/h breeze at our backs for the run to Rudd Rd. An odd infringement here and there from the usual culprits till Mt Wanganui inspired a Rocket blast.  Plenty of forward thrust through town again to arrive for the customary conference at the Lemontree. BigMat swiftly on slices of sledge-toast while subjects of crit tactics, tourdefightbacc and Sundays route were chewed over. 

Sunday's 7am start dispensed with the lighting kit, enough sunshine to light the way. Down to Harvey's to congregate with BigMat, Patrick, FeltMat, Temple and Rocket (freshly warmed from an earlier 30k). HBK dragged the chain as last to berth, all agreeing on a change of course scenery. The choice of an anti-clockwise 7 bridges lap had us in Watts Rd to begin, little traffic (but Rocket's pace) to battle on the way to Mooroopna. 8 degrees and slowly rising, a WNW swung westerly to test the tour to Tatura (already 6 bridges crossed) The Garmin speed sensor went back to bed swinging south into Dhurringile Rd (battery needing new volts) HBK and BigMat hoisting the mainsail in the high 30's to cruise with a now northerly wind behind us.  Patricks' trusty tin Cannondale, FeltMat's belated Round the Bay prep and HBK's satirical sarcasm part of the chin wagging en route till turning toward the tour to Toolamba, the enemy wind slowly swinging to a NNE. Just the publican hosing down last nights' leftovers at the Toolamba Pub, we pushed on to the bridge (No 10) over the Goulburn toward Union Rd for posterior punishment. Coarse stone signalled few ratepayers are down this way, nice to reach the smooth surface of Central Kialla Rd but our spring wind was now a northerly again to make us earn breakfast. Over bridges 15 and 16 then a respite for Mitchell's familiar west leg home. The customary pace pick-up in Raftery had legs fairly unresponsive, a little tactical rotation had BigMat shoulder the wind coming at him at one o'clock for Conrod straight. Rocket teased a wheel ahead, HBK bolted (even forcing Rocket to swap cogs in pursuit) I could only dig enough for 3rd, but more than happy to finish a 60k workout over the 19th bridge in Raftery Rd. A post ride relax at Degani, egg & bacon sustinance aplenty.  (Great work by OlympicSteve & Nev in the "Warny" on Sunday, 35th and 68th a fine result in a super tough race.)

A lazybones start on Monday (day off) with a sluggish 8am start, a new battery restoring the Garmin speed sensor for a 40k test run. Headed south down Archer Rd with yet another 6 degree start, a strong west-southwest wind buffeting the Mavics about (I'm almost used to them after 70+k use), much improved in Mitchell Rd with a little more sun and the wind behind, wheels singing on the tarmac. Back to wrestling the handlebars for a northerly attack on Boundary Rd, wishing there were more trees to hide behind. A distant mirage of something ahead kept the pace going (probably chasing a rubbish bin or letterbox?) by the Pub a small group of riders were in view. Nearing Old Dookie some went left and others right, I chose right or does the bike just know that way? Half a dozen were caught at the pig farm, some of the Adams family on a little longer loop. Carried on to the toaster then Emu, took Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd back to Boundary, down to Old Dookie then home, a diversion from the set circuit.

Another lazybones start Tuesday, even more tardy with an 8.30 roll around the ubiquitous Toaster loop. Just a tap around on the oft neglected 17tooth, keeping below 150bpm to preserve some form.  A noticable influx of traffic (peak hour?) had wits sharpened for half wits (don't you just love the ones who must pass pronto, then jump on the anchors to turn left), nice to get out of the suburbs (Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd) where it's just a wave or two for the farmers on tractors or atv's. A bit of chill in the air at 7 degrees, a sign of a light northerly enthused the turn at the Emu. A pong free run past the pig farm in Old Dookie confirmed the northerly, south along Boundary flipping a coin for River or Mitchell as the chosen course. River Rd won, maybe a little more shelter but it's six of one, half a dozen of the other. A couple of degrees more warmth from the sun was uplifting, steady cadence in Central Kialla Rd, head down in Mitchell with wind strengthening. Didn't press the accellerator in Raftery, just held the average till the end of Conrod. Toast and coffee at the (strangely peaceful) Lemontree to ponder a big ride tomorrow. 

Weather was ideal Wednesday morning, a hint of NNE and an agreeable sunrise to start a long held personal challenge. Pockets packed and hippocampus honed in Wyndham St, I hit go on the Garmin at Fryers St and headed south, the coarse surface of the highways' shoulder to put up with till crossing the Murchison exit.  Kept the thoughts on the moment not the distant target, the neocortex negative little voice calling 'abandon ship' gagged and locked away in a dark room. Not a lot of traffic at this hour but a few came in waves of three and four. A few minor catagory climbs over railway lines till Wahring, had a chomp on a jam sandwich to keep the tank from emptying. Concentration on debris laying in the emergency lane and traffic at off and on ramps the big priority, it was onto the new Nagambie bypass section (specially sealed super rough but happy to clock a Strava KOM as recompense) Conservative climbs on the Avenel section to leave reserves for later, just a hint of a tailwind (9km/h) helped. Most impressed with the truckies, all very professional passing with space aplenty, even a friendly toot from a passing Pajero (do I know you?). Enthused in reaching the Hume in 2:05:58 (another Strava KOM to swell the head),  the real concentration started with a Heinz range of obstacles to steer the Michelins' away from. One large (defunct) bottle jack, 4 large wheel nuts (hopefully not from one vehicle) 3 octopus straps, a disc brake pad, 3 fan belts, an XD Falcon, oranges, a sump guard, a watch and 9 dead kanga's. Most inconveniently, the sole narrow bridge south of Seymour (without a shoulder)had a slalom course of squashed skippy organs to negotiate. Yumm.....     Finished No1 bidon at 95k to have a full No2 for the shorter remainder, a tank top up of fruitcake between on and off ramps nearing Flowerdale. The tail wind was slowly building (16km/h) but so were the ascents, down to the 21 sprocket at times, it seemed ages to reach the Great Divide peak of 357 metres at Arkells Lane. Enthusiasm and a grin returned knowing the gradual downhill from Wallan onward, just love the big ring at times like this (ticking over on the 12 in the mid 40's) Eyes peeled crossing the Northern Hwy on ramp then a billiard table surface downhill past Beveridge in the low 50's on the 11, no cogs left.  Last chunk of fruitcake chewed before taking the Craigeburn off ramp (Citylink not kosher for bikes says VicRoads) with the CBD vista as motivation to press on. Felt quite foreign to halt at the traffic lights in Craigieburn but the backside was greatful of a short respite from four hours on the Fizik . A little squeezy in the emergency lane in places on the leg to Fawkner, passing Ford at the 4hr 20 mark.  Wits were sharpened for trams and their tracks at Preston and beyond, nice to get a bike lane for Sydney Rd Brunswick (sometimes down to just handlebar width), but taxi's and opening doors are the suprise package. Nice to get onto bike nirvana in Royal Parade, a dedicated wide green band (even with tactile edgelining to shoo cars off)  makes good progress possible.  Several traffic lights to halt for in the CBD but the end was now in sight, sharing a lane with motorbikes certainly stops cars from giving you the squeeze. Finally stopped at Elizabeth & Flinders, the Garmin halted to record 173k in  5:07:32 (5:21 of stop light time) with a 34 average.  Chuffed that attempt #6 was another PB (8 minutes off) , I ploughed into a big 98 octane Coke and the XL plate of sushi with a 4,455 calorie deficit to balance.  Old faithful BM (hadn't missed a beat, Michelins unmarked) and me were soon tucked into the 12:52 train home (with gluteus glowing at defcon 3)

Creaks and squeaks the morning after but a gentle lap was to be done to prevent rigormortis setting in. A howler westerly and gloomy grey skies weren't inviting so a short lap of Ford-Lemnos/Cosgrove-Boundary and Channel was enough. Nice to be on familiar tarmac (sans trams and taxis) and pushed east with 20-30 km/h winds behind. 80 cadence eased the load on limbs but there was wrestlemania steering down Boundary.  Sore bits were ignited pointing into Channel Rd, a full on head wind dictated bringing the 19 tooth cog out of the archive. Thoughts were directed to coffee and banana toast to motivate the leg home, even the Garmin gave up at Orrvale Rd, losing touch with satellites and ending data. Content that legs were operational, a Lemontree pit stop (unusually quiet) topped off the ride.

Decent weather arrived Friday and with another day off in hand, took executive hours for an 8am start to lap the old faithful Toaster loop. With legs and posterior returned to form, the push into a light north easter didn't cause conniptions, enjoyed a warming sun with London Grammar and Rufus to keep ears (quietly) entertained. A scattered Adams clan northbound in Boundary Rd were the only bikes seen, only a horse and an ATV to avoid on the 50k's. Heart rate variation was kept to just 12 bpm at the manageable zone 3, suprised to have recovered quickly from a 1000+k fortnight. Chose the Mitchell Rd course for variety, finishing in Raftery with a now northerly wind keeping the head down.     

Week 42   509km (80 mile beach to Karratha W.A.)   Y.T.D. 14,633km
October Great Cycle Challenge  : 1295km covered 

"Inspiration exists, but it has to find us working"  Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Spanish painter/sculptor

Highly recommended reading  "The lost art of the group ride" at <cyclingtips.com.au>

    

          

Week 41: Saving daylight

Just the head headlight heading to the Socialists Saturday, sun is almost up at 5.30 on the last day of eastern standard time. Deserted roads today, no sign of the regulars on foot but a shirtless punk with attitude yelled at anyone passing the lake (must have been a tough night on the turps). Jase, Nick, Tim, HBK (short sleeved and legged) Temple, Cougar, AvantiTrev, Shorty and PistolPete set off on cue, FeltMat arriving just in time to join in. 8 degrees was bearable but a mid strength NNE dictated some effort, had the shovel out digging deep beside Jase in leg 1. HBK's CEO was passed on the way to the kinder, some variables along Channel Rd as many climatised. An echelon helped in Boundary Rd, Sticks and Harpo (?)  spied rolling south near the figfarm. HBK peeled off to check on the boss as we steered into Old Dookie, coped with Nicks' tempo but Jase got my engine on the redline, exposed to the elements with open fields. Nice to tuck in for a tow up to the Emu and there was far less strain headed west. The mystery TT lad (teardrop hat & tracksuit top) appeared first in Lemnos-Cosgrove, Clive & Bomber next, the carrots for a long Pussycat train.  Temple may need ASADA investigation with a marked improvement on last week, Tim & Shorty on the back foot this week with work hindering rides. HBK returned (via Boundary) after checking on the chief (Sharon), I had the rarest moment of having a wheel 63mm ahead of his, but sadly photographic evidence is unavailable. Most were wary of the speed limit on the way to Wanganui but arrived at Rudd Rd without violation. Again, no time wasted boring down the Boulevard, Weapon welcomed aboard as a suprise guest to join in the last few k and engage in post ride sustinance at a warm (and welcoming) Lemontree, discourse on phones, photography, proper parties and portions.              Guilty after downing a large egg & bacon roll, I set off on an extra lap to wear off the indulgence, a repeat roll out Channel Rd spotting the once thought extinct Greendawg rolling in. The NNE had picked up pace (17-24 km/h) to burn the calories, burned the legs in Boundary with a bunch ahead to chase (sparks the enthusiasm and beckons the boundaries to be pushed with a goal to shoot at) Made steady ground up to Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd (a widened edge beside the rumble strips makes things easier), new hope turning west out of the headwind made high 30's progress. Nearing the soup tin, the bunch was now identifiable as the Adams family, the dozen were caught and passed entering Ford Rd, I maintained the momentum and spent reserves toward Rudd Rd, letting 170bpm dictate the speed, many now out in twos and threes headed east in the warming 15 degrees. Finally eased off the gas at the cemetery and rolled quietly home along the Boulevard, another rare sight of JB on bike (static and chatting though) 

Reset the daylight savings clock Saturday night but the eyes still spring open at 5. A smallish breakfast and kitted up before the negatives, excuses and sloth seeps into the skull, out the door with lights ablaze for the dark, unwinding yesterdays repetition with a clockwise Toaster loop. A little light on the horizon at 6 springs some hope that days will soon lengthen. The only road users at this hour were a pair of runners, wisely lit up with a bike tail-light and torch. Just one car encountered on the trek to the Emu, the sky turning crimson over Mt.Major made an early start most worthy. Hopes of a spectacular sunrise vanished with grey clouds soon invading the scenery but enthusiasm lifted with less load on the journey south and west. Brushed the cobwebs off the gearchange and selected the favourite fifteen cog to Boundary, a steady pace down to the pub, still without a car in sight. Funny how great chunks of distance go by un-noticed, perhaps zoning out with the rythym. Nice to have clear time for thoughts to wander and any worries to evaporate, legs just on auto pilot.  Kept the heart rate between 150 -160 for the entirity, easier headed west in Mitchell, Rufus today's background music motivation. Kilometres vanished faster than expected, soon on the brake for a little Melbourne Rd traffic. Felt a hint of northeast resistance on the Raftery Rd leg, keeping the Garmin active till the first red light halted progress (stumps at High St).  Met up with Tommygun, Weapon, Cougar and AvantiTrev at the Parklake for a well earned second breakfast, a box seat to view the Criterium and those we knew competing. Well done to Hamish for the B win, the Feelgood team of OlympicSteve, Trent and A winner Schultzy for a fine 1-2-3. Great effort by all for a fast and entertaining morning.

Monday's start was again in dark surrounds, hopeful in just a few weeks we'll see a brighter sky at ride time. Like me, Cougar was in need of a less than frantic lap, the tried and true short lap proved to be favoured by the breeze for east and north directions.  Was expecting a small showing of troops in Boundary Rd following yesterday's Crit, suprised to see a voluminous Cat pack but no sign of others.  Good to roll around without concentrating on speed or averages, easy on the legs and keeps the ride passion alive. The pair of rough bumps in the dark near Dobsons estate were brutal on the wheels, but came out the other side unscathed. Lap done with time up the sleeve, a good start to another week. 

More k's were craved Monday arvo, a change of scenery needed to prevent wear & tear on the Toaster loop.  A study of wind and weather and the wish of a tail wind home dictated heading out south and west to be helped home by the elements. Set forth south on the highway (a mostly two metre wide lane at my disposal) but a stiff west southwester cut across the starboard bow to raise some perspiration.  Not delighted with the pace but mindful to preserve some fuel for the western attack, I chose to manifest the lanes' remnants as a mental diversion. 5 octopus straps, a thong, 4 fan belts, a nappy (thankfully un-used), a handful of tek screws (avoided) and a VE Commodore. A bit of wind shear to brace against when trucks were on coming otherwise a good leg for 20k (although the surface is as rough as hessian undies).  Took the Murch/VioletTown exit and swung toward Murch, a billiard table smooth 9k's west made up for the wind in the face. Positives at last from Murch East onward, shielded by trees away from the wind finally gave some relief. More billiard table quality in Murchison town, the road to Mooroopna slowly swung to have the now dying breeze almost behind me. Number three magpie swoop for the year didn't bother me, had the head down and a gear up (favoured fifteen) for the 28k homeward. A better sense of achievement with the hard yards done and a light help home, seems wheels were humming a happy tune too.  Farmers as usual courteous and patient giving room to spare, one P plater the polar opposite (a close shave pass yet not another car in sight......go figure) Soon on familiar turf seeing Moroopna's metropolis, a brief Garmin pause for traffic lights then home via bike track to clock 67 in 2:07, a handful of Strava trophies to grin about too (but what's with the great pretender Phil R; averaging 105.4km/h on the Toolamba-Murch off ramp section? Get real, do it on a pushbike next time !)  

Tuesdays cool 5 degrees was at least calm, a ride without wind as rare as BigMat turning up. The prodigal son Rocket was back from holiday, 2nd place was on everyones wish list now. Kenworth, FeltMat, Nick, Tim, Cougar, Temple, PistolPete, AvantiTrev and Jase took flight out Channel, a nice change to share the front with FeltMat, easier on my creaking limbs. As has become customary, the top guns seem to congregate, bumping up the knots when their turn comes. Kenworth reckons he's not fit (look out when he is!) FeltMat thinks he's underprepared for the Round the Bay in two weeks, AvantiTrev was conserving wattage for another lap tonight, Cougar still the quickest nana in town, Tim pulling out all stops amongst the top ranks, PistolPete still blasts off the front regardless of pace.  The aforementioned congregation had us mortals speechless down Mitchell Rd, thankfully keeping the bunch together after intersections. Momentum climbed a little more in Raftery Rd with the cream rising to the top, hang on for survival for many others. Tim scored the long handled shovel award, digging the deepest in Conrod straight,  Rocket having no trouble taking the chocolates on the line (holidays haven't hampered him) Jase getting past Kenworth for second, all others pleased to have finished (like banging your head against a brick wall, lovely when you stop) Quote of the morning from AvantiTrev "That was hell...........ishly good fun!" 

A proper spring afternoon on Tuesday (21 degrees)  brought many out of the woodwork for the Hospital bunch. The  usual collection of rascals were garnished with a few shaking cobwebs off bikes and backsides, ToolambaDave, Craig, Killer, Kev and 2 vegan Mexicans amongst the (eventually) 25 strong bunch. Nath was back minus flu, recovered enough to drive the train with Robbo into the fourties making use of a light southwesterly. Gools and Sprinter jumped aboard, 2 more Mexicans added soon after for spice. My turn again on the pointy end with Paul then Sprinter, got me to speechless by the Boundary bridges (feeling a little second hand from last nights solo and the morning after thrash) The breeze swung slowly to make River Rd a chore, glad to be entrenched near the back for the tow.  Fast and smooth were good ingredients but the ability to accelerate out of corners was weakening.  A rough calculation of the duty roster would have me up front after Roubaix, so short shifted to avoid being burnt alive.  The usual movers dragged the bunch along Mitchell and ramped up the urge out of Roubaix. About 8 in two rows kept rolling over, a long tail single filed behind in hope of reaching the finish alive. Gaps started to open as Arcadia Downs came into view, a team up of Kev, Harpo, Craig & I fought to stay in within 10 metres of the pack, eventually picking off a few that were subtracted by the speed/heartrate/cadence/distance equation.  42k in 1:06:50 was one of the quickest yet, pleased to have survived.

A touch warmer Wednesday, arrived at the Kialla roundabout with Rocket finding Nath, FeltMat and GG there, Nick, Shorty and LegalDave rolled in to head off at 6.  A promised attendance by BigMat evaporated prompting a sledging frenzy, maybe he's yet to change to daylight savings? Down Archer to Mitchell we did the usual
pick-up of PistolPete, my legs feeling like Gumby (that dates me!) by Mitchell's dogleg.  GG's half wheel exuberance in Boundary Rd was quickly evaporated by Nath's velocity, nearly 40 into a northeasterly didn't fit my idea of fun at the front, I wiped off 5 to stay alive from River to Channel. (wonder what's happened to DiscoSteve, passing his place) Pressure was off in Channel Rd (helps with the wind at your back) the eau de blood & bone nearly grew hairs on the handlebars though. All settled into a steady rotation back to town (minus a mexican bonanza) to chalk up a steady lap.

A supermild Thursday (minus the damaging winds predicted) of 15 degrees inticed a lap at aerobic pace, minus 131bpm seems very low but feels beneficial. Cougar and I passed BigMat waiting at the carpark for a Couldabeens circuit, another sunrise worth getting out of bed for, just a short loop for us to keep legs and lungs acustomed, a welcome change from a few thrash laps this week. Damp arrived on cue at 5.30 Thursday arvo, wallowed in the excess of putting feet up on the couch instead of riding.

Just to test the senses, it was back to 6 degrees Friday morning. Made a return to the P&W's with Cougar after a  lengthy lay-off, winter almost bringing the group into recess. Good to join in with Choppy, Meags and Minto, the Hurt Locker lads departing a tad before. (apologies received from the tissueBox but a no show from Princess). Chops had a sixth sense hesitating entering the Doyles Rd roundabout, just as well with a small blue car charging straight on (despite us being half way through) Perhaps we should have yelled to wake the driver?  Normality resumed when heart rates had settled, social updates possible on the way to Boundary.  Minto propelled at a brisk pace despite his winter hibernation, not giving much chance for the quick chicks to draw alongside though. The preferred P&W route now takes on River Rd, feels a little foreign for their lap but happy to go with the flow. Back onto Mitchell then soon into Raftery, Chops and I had the lead for Conrod, Cougar was on a mission at second wheel. Pace was ramped up by Choppy (expenditure for reward?) out of the dip, but Cougs hammered home to take a fine win.                       Scoring a rare RDO, I set forth mid morning to Rushworth, the aim of intercepting the tour de fightbacc lads on the last leg of their Adelaide-Shepparton fundraiser.  12 degrees with a promised 20 was hopeful, the WSW wind was nothing but hurtful (20-37km/h), white knuckle wind shear from oncoming trucks too. An adjustment was needed to the goalposts for this ride. Out the Midland highway then south to Tatura, then the long drag to Rushworth with the wind relentless. Even the rolling hills had head winds on the climbs (surely against the Geneva convention?) to massacre motivation, slash speed and erode enthusiasm. A fair bit of exploration to the depths of the skull was needed to drive onward. Nearing Rushy the pungent pong of skiddled skippys and the number 4 magpie swoop for the year was further reason to continue, a big sense of relief to finally enter town. The 17 fightbacc lads were seated finishing lunch, all in fine order despite covering 850k in 7 days.  The leg back to Shepp was far more enjoyable with wind behind and many to chat with (an expired tail car and one puncture the only pause en route) Stories aplenty of their journey, epic fundraising of $90k+ to aid breast and childrens cancer research makes them all legends. Picked up Gazza as an added extra in Tatura and accompanied the group back to Shepp, the team receiving a great reception in town.  

                         Team Tourdefightbacc gets the cheer from fthe Guthrie St school fundraisers
  

Week 41 :  573km  (Jarrananga Plain to Eighty mile beach W.A.)  YTD 14,124km

Life is like a landscape. You can live in the midst of it, but can describe it only from the vantage point of distance"  Charles Lindburgh (1902-1974) US aviator

Octobers' great cycle challenge is on target with 700k clocked 11 days in. Donations most welcome at https://greatcyclechallenge.com.au/Riders/BryanSlade

In a random bit of bike news, top effort by Andrew Hellinger (Qld) riding 337km in 24 hours ..........................backwards!          
  

Week 40: A challenge, and defying Epimetheus

Ambled along the main drag to the Saturday ritual, the cute jogging ponytail was back, soon after the bedraggled one puffing on the fag. As entertainment, some bloke on a bender having trouble finding which foot to put forward next. The bakery aroma, the newsagent opening, the couple picking up rubbish at the Lake, regular sights to confirm it was Saturday. Eleven to put in a few k's today, Patrick a long missing inclusion to the team of Jase, Shorty, Temple, Nick, PistolPete, HBK, AvantiTrev, BigMat and FeltMat. AvantiTrev was hurling speed violation accusations after just 500 metres, my objection to me lud was that Patrick was sans speedo. (35 by mine) Social up-dates on the rotations out Channel Rd, the weeks' rides (or lack of them) the weeks' work and state of performance (or lack of it) was a good start. A hint of tail wind on Old Dookie Rd held AvantiTrev on a long turn at the front, Temple taking a back seat for a spell, the engine not firing on all cylinders. HBK and BigMat on their usual mission of staying well in front, or do they have the longest bikes in town?  Crossed New Dookie Rd and up to the Emu, a magpie divebombing Jase for the love of red helmets. As we reached the main channel a copious collection of Cats flew east, a kilometre later LeighMac (as always on a time malfunction) was probably heading for an intercept at Boundary & Old Dookie.  A minute behind and head down, Bomber was in pursuit no doubt to fluff up some fur. Our lot continued west into a slowly increasing breeze, minor infringements going un-noticed. Finally to Rudd Rd then through the Fuji roundabout (without comment or sarcasm today) pace continued unabated in the pursuit of coffee (the days of easing off the throttle through town are but a distant memory, or have I gone soft?) Cold in temperature (and welcome) at the Lemontree, football, flash 4X4's and bike stats warmed up the conversation, Cougar joining in in civvies. A small band of 51's about faced at Friars, a mass of Muppets, Goats and Gazelles exited on cue.

A short and sweet lap Monday morning, Sundays' day off had put rust into the joints. Out Archer Rd with Cougs, a northeaster a welcomed assistance (noticing breeze belles assembling for their maiden voyage ; sorry, bad pun). Beyond River Rd a lone magpie zeroed in for an attack (maybe related to LeighMac, swooping this late in the season). Legs were slow to loosen, Cougars engine was quickly up to running temperature, it took till Mitchell to get some fluidity in the fossil though. After the months of winter darkness (and cold) it's a fitting reward to enjoy daylight on a morning ride, sun up even on an early finish, the old familiar honk of the train (now departing earlier) beaten too.   

Monday arvo's radar looked negative but yr.no looked positive. Put trust into the preferred forecaster (nearly always accurate) and committed to a long lap before the negatives took hold. He who hesitates is lost they say. Had a lot of faith in a summer kit, wind fairly brisk at 13-20 from the north west made the Boulevard and Rudd Rd a fair warm-up. Better in Wanganui and Ford Rd, out of the suburbs to avoid the respiratory hysteria from wisteria, then deviated left into Lemnos North Rd for a haul up to Jubilee (forgotten what a drag it is) with the breeze buffeting. Planned to restrain the heart rate to 150 -160 in the interest of survival, the 8k to Five ways wasn't so tough with the wind swinging to a WSW but the 10k south on Marungi-Labuan Rd was like being a cork in a storm, a coarse surface making the co-efficient of drag a drag too. Emu corner and the leg to the Toaster was an oasis of smooth track, barely enough to revive for the slog into the wind of Old Dookie though (focussed on Nirvana and Queens of the Stone Age as the motivating metronome on i-pod). Scored a little tree shelter from the now SSW wind for Boundary Rd (seems longer with the odds against you), Mitchell Rd finally reached, 3km/h added with the wind off the face and onto the side.  Built up hopes of a final few k's with the wind behind but the gods were against me, an east southeaster swung in to challenge in Raftery and Conrod. There was enough left in the biscuit barrel to continue to a Lake finish line, bang on 70k in 2:16:03 burnt 4 cheeseburgers and half a dozen chips worth.

The start of October and the start of the Great Bike Challenge (a fundraiser for the Childrens Medical Research Institute) with a self imposed 1600k goal for the month to aim at. Mmm...has one bit off a bit too much to chew? Morning showers got the aim off to a poor start, lunacy to swing a leg over in this weather. Tuesday arvo's wind scared all but the tough away, just Paul and I had the intestinal fortitude to front at the hospital (and Paul has just had 2 weeks off!). Where have all the legends gone? 13 degrees was a let down from last nights' mild one, a keen westerly was going to make the trip home a tough one. Rolled away at six and up to Verney Rd we found Sprinter tenacious enough to join, Mitch attaching in Ford Rd for the easy roll to the Emu. The breeze wasn't as tough as first imagined, 15 - 20 km/h was tolerable pointing south to the Toaster, great to have OlympicSteve, Hamish, Trent, Jim and co inflate the bunch to 9 and a shared load for Old Dookie's head wind.  Hamish, Steve and Mitch led the lions share for Boundary and River Rd's, steadily reeling in a pair of distant tail-lights in River Rd's darkness. Caught Bo & Kel at the start of Central Kialla Rd, Mitch finally relinquishing the lead for a brief bout of Bo. Paul's Bali break hasn't pegged his speed, a hard match climbing Mt Nicolaci. OlympicSteve and Trent kept the tempo on the boil for Raftery Rd, many staying at the back without argument. Muscles were well warmed in Conrod straight for the blast to the line, Sprinter burnt up on re-entry, Kel was minus headlight volts,  Paul ran out of urge in the last 100, i was just satisfied holding on for 5th (and suprised at Garmin's 558 watt estimate) to chalk up 42 in 1:13:16. 

Spring has failed in it's key selection criteria, a miserable 5 degrees Wednesday, a gusty wind from the north brewing to harden the resolve. Nick, Cougar, Temple, GG, BigMat and FujiTrev congregated at Kialla for the slightly abbreviated Wednesday ritual, off to a cracking start with Cougars stint.  It was a swoop free leg in Archer Rd, PistolPete blending into the pack just before the swing into Mitchell.  The northerly steadily built up to make us earn breakfast, PistolPete and GG gapped the pack crossing Central Kialla Rd, leaving FujiTrev exposed to the breeze. His head bobbing and speed dropping, I swung over to lend a tow, most were content to leave our enthusiastic pair 10m ahead. In less than a minute FujiTrev was decisively OTA. About to drop back and tow him again,  I had a quick glance rearward to see he'd already u-turned post haste (flu 1 : FujiTrev 0). BigMat advanced to peg the exhuberant two, the seven regrouped to tackle the elements of Mitchell and grit teeth for the push up Boundary.  A long string of Cats with the wind behind them swooped into River Rd, soon after a gaggle of Goats followed suit. Nothing slows GG on his "attack or slack" mission, BigMat and PistolPete the only worthy matches today. An easier ask headed west in Channel Rd with some shelter as a bonus. Mid 30's were maintained for most of the length but GG poured fuel on the pace fire on the Kinder turn, Cougar temporarily unhooked with cramp. Stayed back to offer a draft (can sympathise with the brutal "handbrake" of cramp) but soon rejoined the pack for a joint finish, a fair slog with the wind now gusting to 26 clicks. 

A lot couldabeen at the car park for the Thursday Couldabeens, but only the hard core bothered, others must be worshipping the Greek God Epimetheus........(Google it !)  Chris A (A for adjusting seat), Kenworth, NIck, Cougar, Temple and PistolPete lined up to ride with the westerly (17km/h) then against it for the 20k home. Smooth sailing toward Boundary Rd, stones ricochetting off a dozen wheels at Sellmans driveway. I had a Kenworth sized challenge matching the Kenworth with the breeze cutting across us in Boundary Rd, PistolPete and Chris A seem to be a rung above us too but at least they're considerate of solidarity. The breeze picked up to 25km/h for Mitchell, hats off to Nick & Cougar giving ten tenths for the whole ride. We'd reeled in HBK and his CEO Sharon (on an apprenticeship) at the dog leg, but they stuck wisely to their pace.  Another shift with Kenworth from Archer to the highway fried the Fossil, 178bpm was the rev limiter up Mt Nicolaci.  A slalom course through the equine fertiliser deposited at the bridge (before Roubaix corner) gave us some navigation skills, then a steady wind-up of the speed spring toward Arcadia, thankful to now have the breeze at our side.  Out of the dipper and onto the long flat stretch of Conrod, Temple took the tough turns testing tenacity, thrashing thighs, taxing tendons at terminal tempo, torque triumphed, Temple tickled to take the trophy.     

Good to have a decent roll up to the Library on Thursday arvo, a bit fresh and a little breeze to deal with but far better than last weeks bunch of one. Robbo, Clive, Dalton, long-time-missing Graham, Paul, Bomber and Sticks started, Nath found rolling along the Boulevard soon after. Southbound Simmo had to hook a quick (illegal) u-turn to gain a spot, Robbo upping the ante to make him earn his berth. Graeme's suave Look wearing single shod MadFiber wheels was on it's first outing in 4 months, a few cobwebs being blown off the rider too. OlympicSteve and Hamish were aboard at DECA, clocking up a 100 already. Well rugged up against the forecast chill of 8 degrees (the southerly blowing quite an icy 15km/h) we made our way to Ford Rd collecting Sprinter en route. High 30's were held to the Emu, a turn at the front again with the machine that is Robbo to the Toaster ramped up the exhaustion into the wind. Robbo rolled over for Old Dookie, my h.r. relieved by 40 bpm into the bargain.  Quite cruisy in Boundary at 4th wheel tucked away from the elements, a chance to recover for the next effort. Nath (on flu recovery) turned off to Shepp East, Simmo, Clive and Graham took a Channel Rd exit, the remainder picked up Sam as a contributor near the bridges. The breeze had shifted to a SSW for River Rd, plenty of calories burned in my next turn to the dip. Bomber and Sticks peeled off for home at Central Kialla, only 8 left for Mitchell Rd with engine drivers Robbo and OlympicSteve limiting conversation. Managed with Brendan at the business end (but as useful as a matchstick to draft off), a repeat performance push up Mt.Nicolaci relived the hurt from this morning. Shorter and faster turns after the highway (Sam headed for home) with some showing signs of wear in the mid 40's. Sprinter had the right tow and the jump timed to go with Robbo and Steve in Conrod straight, I stuck it out 30 metres back with Hamish, Dalton and Paul well worn from the tempo, a large hot meal in the imagination driving the pedals to the finish line.

Quite serene to see fog atop the lake on Friday morning, 0.9 degrees is being short changed for Spring though. Plenty of pussycats headed north on their way to get a freaky Friday fix, I was satisfied to make mine a recouperation ride with Cougar, a postcard orange sunrise to view (thanks Jen @ Avanti, new transitional specs are ace :-) out Channel Rd, a possie of supercats driven by supergent Graeme in Boundary (Sosso appearing to lose grip at the rear). A double dose of 51 in usual hot pursuit were demoting a few off the back, the bright and cheery P&W greeting was in stark contrast to the huffs and puffs of the bunches ahead. With legs nearly warm a steady pace was held home in Old Dookie (Goats heading out), a rising sun on the back was the icing on the weeks' cake. 

Week 40:  389km  (Moongardie to Jarrananga Plain, 50k south of Derby) YTD 13,551 km

"There is only one way to avoid criticism. Do nothing, say nothing, be nothing"  Aristotle, Greek philosopher
384-322 BC   
  
Best of luck to the tourdefightbacc team departing Adelaide today, 900k's in a week back to Shepp. Great effort by Ozzy, Tony, Doc, Sam, Bickers and ten others to raise $60+K for breast and childrens cancer research . Scheduled back in town next Friday 2pm at the Aussie, come along and shout 'em a well earned ale and/or a spare $.



Week 40                  

Week 39 : Finding comfort, and a bunch of one.

A Cosmic trued and a chain silenced (with a long overdue lube) made the old faithful almost new again, content rolling south to a socialist Saturday. No cute ponytail or dead shopping trolley today, just the bedraggled one puffing away. Enough light to see a thin layer of fog over the lake, not quite enough light to cast off the lighting kit just yet (daylight savings to cast us back into darkness soon) A field of ten to start in a cool 2.8 degrees, HBK recovering the climate shock from a week in Qld, rugged up like Douglas Mawson, most out of character. GG making a comeback, Cougar from a gastric setback, even BigMat had returned from his Fruitloop frying. Suprised AvantiTrev turned up (below his temperature limit) Rocket on a final fix before two weeks leave. Paired with Rocket for the first leg, up to the limit in no time warmed up the legs, soon contrasted by AvantiTrev's shift, to the relief of the recovering. Good to have PistolPete as a Saturday regular, Nick,Shorty and Temple making up the team to tackle Channel Rd, Nath joining in at the Boundary FigFarm. Someone needs to shift the sun five degrees left, right in our eyes for Old Dookie Rd made navigation a challenge. Pleased to have Rocket roll over at the BP OTA line, but he needs three dozen pies in him to render any sort of decent draft now. A scenic run to the Emu with Mt.Major and canola topped with the remaining fog to distract the eyes, soon westward in Lemnos Cosgrove Rd with a hint of tail wind to enjoy. Vince was on Cat maintenance (or would that be mischief?) today, like many bunches, their group growing as the weather improves.  A few misdemenours when PistolPete and Nath took to the front beyond the kennels, no wrath from the Captain though (felony unseen or favours for staff?) Almost difficult to contain the speed limit homeward, no movement at the treetops yet a wind favoured from behind. The west bit done then south in the Boulevard, no ease of speed through town, such was the lure of coffee to warm the chilled. The Lemontree heater a welcomed warmer of yarns on nightmares, football, previous lives and 51 stirrers, a large mob of Muppets, Gazelles & Goats left as Area arrived.

Fought off a fierce bout of procrastination early Sunday, arising and kitting up for solo lap at 6. The slightest noise from the windchime prompted a peek outside to ponder the direction, noticing the light shower and looming grey clouds behind it. Bugger! After the effort to rise it was a no brainer, back under the doona for an hour. Gave it a second and third chance up till 8.30, showers still providing the negatives.  Started other tasks then the day improved, some regrets at the missed opportunity.

A short lap early Monday, a mild morning with a side serving of a light westerly to start the working week. Still trying to shake the last of the sniffles I had no records to aim at, boldly staying on the 17 sprocket to loosen up the limbs. 

Tuesdays fine weather motivated a lap with the hospital bunch, although numbers were suprisingly low. Oz, Tony, Andy, Dalton and Simmo were the only starters, hopeful of a few more volunteers as the k's ticked by. First time in months it was short knicks and sleeves, puts a positive into the ride. Robbo was the first recruit just a k into the lap, Bomber found on a natural break beyond Matilda Drive. Soon after we gathered up Sprinter, LegalSteve, OlympicSteve, Trent and others, many hands make light work i'm told.   Sprinter drew the Bomber straw for the task up front, a little hesitant despite an increased ride schedule including some intervals. Nought to fear as he rose to the task, a little speechless after his turn though. LegalSteve chuffed at his pace, a new speedo battery has increased his previous 17km/h maximum. Shared the front (part 2) with Oz for the Old Dookie Rd stage, feeling good but lungs are still a little limited. Tempo remained fast but smooth, Trent and OlympicSteve motivating the troops to River Rd, Bomber & Robbo doing likewise in River Rd. I got back to the front for the Central-Kialla Rd leg (with LegalSteve) then a k of Mitchell with Oz before the respiratory restrictions (a little like asthma) called a roll over. In this state i'd mentally cemented a place somewhere at the back for the remainder, a wise move with the artillery firing in Raftery Rd prompting an indian file anyway by most for survival. A few were going OTA in Conrod, but I had just enough jelly beans left to finish 6th, happy in the circumstances, delighted to at last find some comfort with some Fizik fine tuning, (a whisker down at the front) even finer than Clive Palmers' margin. 

A super mild 14 degree Wednesday morning allowed another outing for short knicks, the light northerly aiding and abetting a roll to Kialla for a Couldabeens outing.   10 thought similarly, Nick, Shorty, Tim, GG, FujiTrev, Cougar, Jase, LegalDave and Luke at the roundabout for the off. FujiTrev somewhat sombre and solemn post prang, injuries behind him but the memory may haunt? Luke had fronted on a promised Temple attendance, (but no show) Shorty had found a moment without work getting in the way of a good ride. We picked up the PistolPete at the Archer rumble strips then faced east for Mitchell Rd and a corker sunrise to view. Jase the Cheshire Cat again from yesterdays Couldabeens (Rocketless) victory over the Kenworth, but it was GG digging deep today, all or nothing his usual practice. The northerly nudged off a couple of clicks in Boundary Rd (Luke hanging on by the fingertips) but a collective sigh for Channel Rd tucked away in the shelter of the orchards to hammer home. GG had a foray in the fourties for a fraction, surely trained by HBK with half an Oppy advantage over anyone at the front.  Back home in good time, and again in great comfort (a welcomed feeling after a few months of gluteus grief, nice to get off the bike without the sting in the tail)   

The early hours of Thursday started with a stiff wind and a light shower, ride plans abandoned quickly. Could have squeezed in a lap as it happens (sky was all talk and no action) but a morning off was a treat. A blustery day but convinced myself to stop sooking and tackle the Library bunch, even if the quick boys hit hard there's always the slow OTA train to catch home. Pumped with positives (to overpower the 40km/h wind gusts) I rolled down to the Library to find the car park deserted, bereft of bikes, not a punter in sight with 3 minutes till blast off. As six bells struck I pondered the softness of those who rank themselves tough, macho's have turned to marshmallows, only the geriatric bloke silly enough to brave the lap tonight. Tapped out the Boulevard (spotting Simmo southbound in search of the mythical bunch) and up to Wanganui for a breezy (WSW @ 22km/h+) tour to the Emu, only 23 minutes of tail wind to enjoy, over an hour of toil to follow (but put this thought quickly in the bottom of the in tray)  OlympicSteve,Trent and Trudy were spied westbound in Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd (no u-turn tonight, possibly in search of the bunch that wasn't?)  but I lapped up the breeze from behind to prepare for the remainder. Got the cobwebs off the 17 sprocket headed to the toaster and stayed on it for Old Dookie too . A large rabbit held pace (33km/h) for two white posts before retreating to the undergrowth, nothing for me to hide under facing the music till Boundary Rd, but held pace. Better facing south in Boundary (apart from dodging a dismembered rabbit) with a few sheltering trees, the Pine Lodge Pub looked tempting but continued on the mission. The open spaces down to River Rd and the stretch west were relentless, a brief respite with a passing car (a 10 second draft)  but the long, slowly diminishing tail-lights were a reminder of the tarmac to tackle.  Heaps of Kamikaze moths threatened to fill any openings homing in on the headlight, zoned in and kept spinning (well, 81 cadence) away to finally reach Kialla Central. Mitchell Rd felt a fraction better (wind slowly dropping) but Mt Nicolaci felt steeper. As Raftery slowly veers to the north the task eased, weaved through the odd branches scattered near Arcadia Downs and got onto the favourite 14 for Conrod, able to lift the game for a respectable finish in 1:26:40 and quietly chuffed at winning the sprint on a Thursday night :-)

Wasn't expecting a one degree start to Fridays' lap, almost as chilly as a Kevin and Julia get-together. BigMat, Cougar, Temple and HBK formed a small pack in Archer Rd and headed south, fog on the fields to serve as a reminder of the winter (hopefully) behind us. BigMat has obviously undergone intensive HBK training and now half bikes with the best of them. A long serve at the front with BigMat then with the HBK master himself is enough to etch in a permanent inferiority complex, at least sharing the ride with Cougar and Temple is good therapy. A very distant rider in Mitchell Rd was slow to reel in, greeted Choppy, Fee and Sosso amongst the P&W's on their Boundary Rd mission south, the only bunch seen. The soup like atmostphere thinned a little in Channel Rd, eyes were peeled for an oncoming Sharon (the HBK boss) to join in, but no show. Our mystery rider ahead was eventually caught just beyond the Kinder, PistolPete the one hard to catch and hard to match. A brisk little effort to finish the working week.

Week 39 ;  282km  (Turkey Creek to Moongardie W.A.)  YTD 13,162 km

"Your body will argue there is no justifiable reason to continue. Your only recourse is to call upon your spirit which fortunately functions independently of logic"   Tim Noakes (1949-    )  Sth African Sports Science Professor    

Week 38 : Respite, recovery and reality

Groundhog day Saturday, awake in the wee hours again, pondering how much kit to wear and what to leave behind, tyre pressures, the state of the road, who was turning up and who was turning over in bed.  A relentless addiction this is, but there's worse to catch i guess. Down to the car park with a little more light to show the way, navigating the empty streets (apart from a cute ponytail jogging, a bedraggled bloke trying to light a fag and a dead shopping trolley in the bike lane).  Participating punters pruned to just Trav, Rocket, Shorty, Cougar, Tim, Jase, AvantiTrev and FeltMat today, much reduced from last weeks 15. Jase the Cheshire cat on a (loaner) Avanti Corsa, most sinister and slick in matte black, old faithful Giant layed up in the workshop. 4 degrees was nothing to celebrate, but the Tassie highlands had -7 and F.N.Q. had +40 during the week, so we shouldn't grizzle. Off at 6 bereft of breeze, matching Jase's stealth like steed proved to be an early ask, warming up the limbs quickly. It's the same old familiar stretch of road but at least its a known quantity, updating the social side with the crew along the way. Up to the front again after the pub, a long haul with Trav to Old Dookie Rd, then another long stay with Jase to the toaster, certainly happy to relinquish duties to others by then. Spied Fitzy (solo as per usual) on the east path toward the Emu, Russ repeating the role as advance party to the Cats again. The friendly little felines forged east with Sprinter as bonnet mascot as we crossed Boundary Rd, i'm sure the fuse would have been lit in River Rd to earn their breakfast. There were a few discrepancies on our pace which didn't draw the attention of the regulator, landmarks came and went as all did their bit, eventually arriving at Rudd Rd, spotting THM and his running harem bearing north. Much lampooning and sarcasm at the roundabout recalling last weeks spill, probably helped by the absence of the wobbly one. A couple had pressing duties over lazing at the Lemontree, just a small gathering this week to cackle over Julia's retirement, jokes and suplementary sledges.

Almost kitted up as the sun rose on Sunday, felt quite rusty in the joints so threw in the towel. A fully optioned cold developed through the day to dull enthusiasm and restrict movement. No thoughts of saddling up on Monday, now in the grip of aches and sniffles, the bout of rain and thunder at 5 would have cancelled the thought anyway. The next few days spent watching cobwebs amass on old faithful with the respiratories wrecked, sooking set in and drive dulled. 

Eventually resurfaced Thursday morning, not 100% but the cravings were strong to ride. A lap with the Couldabeens may remove me from the missing persons list (not quite on BigMat status yet though). Felt almost foreign to swing the leg over and set off to the start, not so hot holding a straight line spelt out of condition. Jase arrived early back on familiar Giant ground, Kenworth fronted at full steam and almost airborne in his usual warm up, Rocket, PistolPete, Nick and AvantiTrev rolled in, Chris A and Vince upping the average before we started just by their presence. Copious velocity out Channel Rd with 20 to 30km/h of WNW shoving us east, tempo steadily raised over the next 7k to Boundary, AvantiTrev quick to secure an early permanent rear seat. Speed was keen pointing south too, a tidy little echelon assisting the journey. A great early warning of a car on the main channel bridge diverted a drama, a scattered entry to Mitchell Rd but a considerate regrouping before the hardyards of a 20-28km/h headwind were attacked. A few more took the rear retirement promoting me forward, enthusiasm evaporating with the h.r. already at 174 and not even at the front yet! (HTFU me thinks, but there's a fine line between what the mind believes and what reality delivers) Matching Rockets pace into a headwind proved a fickle folly carrying the remnants of the cold, quickly abandoned to the rear after a 100 metres attempt, and tucked in for a tow. It was down to Kenworth, PistolPete, Rocket and Chris to drag us along for Raftery, the Kenworth digging deep in the closing 100 of Conrod (almost digging up breakfast). The sprint was side-lined, a bunch finish testament to all putting in ten tenths. 

A little trepadation heading to the Library lap on Thursday night, mentally prepared to be cast off the back like a Labor leader in my condition. A smaller gathering tonight (a legacy of recent averages?) of Dalton, Robbo, Sam, Ozzie, Travis, Liam, Harpo and Clive, a start with a considerate bunch at least, let's see what torturous tempo is on tonights agenda. Liam's spin is something to behold, a 140 cadence out to Wanganui Rd made me weary watching it! Felt ok doing a few turns while the pace wasn't blistering and helped by the WNW, but resolved to sit on the back if the speed went feral. Plenty of additions as the k's ticked over, Kev, Trent, OlympicSteve, Sticks and Hamish on the east leg, LegalSteve on the west leg of Old Dookie Rd. A chance to update on news as the circuit unfolded but talk petered out when the tempo bumped up after the Pub. The River Rd rumba was manageable from the back seat, difficult to see who were the train drivers but the usual suspects were likely. A late call of a car at River Rd's end had the brakes cooking, on the gas quick smart for Central Kialla Rd to hang onto a burst down to Mitchell Rd, LegalSteve and others resigned to reality at the back too. A fairly bad case of the rubber bands while navigating to Raftery Rd, but took it as a form of interval training (if only the lungs would clear to allow more oxygen in). All my eggs went into staying attached as the pace built toward Arcadia Downs and beyond, no idea who took the honours (such was the concentration of keeping hold of the wheel ahead) but to finish within the pack in 1:19:00 was reward enough. Sam kindly rubbed in a forthcoming Noosa holiday to ponder the current temperatures, perhaps warmer rides are to come here? 

Friday's usual tour de recouperation tapped out with Cougar, still with a westerly to make the trip home a chore.  FeltMat had shaken off the week long cobwebs to put up a chase, catching for a brief yarn at the end of Channel. Heading north on Boundary we had the spectators seat of Freaky Friday chargers, Supercats, 51 single filed in hot pursuit (ejecting one), a trio of chirpy P&W's then regular Cats with Doc greeting. Our turn west for Old Dookie Rd proved a workout homeward with not a lot of drive left back into town, a reminder of fitness lost and the challenge to regain it.  

Week 38  ;  195km (Kununurra to Turkey Creek WA) YTD 12,880km 

"That men do not learn very much from the lessons of history is the most important of all the lessons of history"  Aldous Huxley (1894-1963) British writer, author "Brave New World"                  

Week 37 Eat, sleep, ride, repeat

A damp stretch of road Saturday morning just to force another bike cleaning session. (thinks chain no 3 for the year is due soon) Plenty of enthusiasm to put in a few kilometres with Nick, Jase, BigMat, Dion, Temple, Tim, Rocket, Cougar, Shorty, FujiTrev, GG, PistolPete and Craig (a Goat seeking assylum?) and Ross (a foreigner along for a tow) ready at the shop. 6am tolled and no AvantiTrev policeman to be seen (spied the damp track and rolled the doona over it seems) so the 15 set forth on an easterly trajectory assisted from the west. Just enough puddles to polka dot us all, a little cooler today forced warmer gear back out of presumptuous storage. Speed didn't get out of hand despite the lack of enforcement officer, maybe the Fruitloop distance tomorrow had a bearing? Up to Old Dookie Rd and pointing toward the toaster, an orange sunrise made a postcard across the hectares of canola, almost a trophy for those who've toughed it out over winter.  Nath joined in on the journey to the Emu (is our feathered landmark tending Zeerust lambs?), the ubiquitous advance party to the Cats on cue eastbound. Copious Cats soon followed, a few minutes behind, the sultans of speed ; Fox, Sosso, Wizz and others.  Our leaders were stretching the pack at intersections (in the haste for coffee perhaps?) a few chases in the 40's reassembled the bunch.  Eventually arrived at Rudd Rd (even a light headwind makes the road longer) to cruize into town, a damp Canterbury Rd roundabout and a hot entry by FujiTrev equalled a horizontal outcome, thankfully no serious bodily disaster but Shorty was brought down too, a deraillier hanger the only casualty. After a little asessment all were back on track to the Lemontree, PistolPete's puncture a minute later quickly rectified.  Fruitloop tactics, election candidates and auction items captured convivial conversation, Pom (still in ankle recovery) re-aquainting with the team.

A night at the Hospice Auction (a Fruitloop prologue) with many of the crew, HBK, Temple, Rocket, Cougar, Shorty, BigMat, PistolPete, GG, Tim and most with their significant other halves enjoyed an eager auction (FeltMat assisting) but Tim needed shackles on his wife's (successful) effort to secure the autographed GreenEdge jersey. Staright to the pool room i'm told, if he's allowed to build one! A great night with big efforts from Nath, Smuggler and the keen team, Hospice scoring well (23K) on generosity.

Lined up Sunday morning for No 10 Fruitloop, many familiar faces in park ferme readying for the 100 / 115k assaults (50 odd tough nuts had departed earlier on the 180).  Several Couldabeens, and a few happy to be associated with them, rolled away at half 8, me keen to keep clear of the cram and confusion that dogs a mass start. Caught behind a few feeling their (maybe inexperienced) way, a tandem and a recumbant (only useful as landfill, unless disability dictates) opened up a large gap to the crew, but I wasn't keen to chase hard with 95+k to go. Happily teamed up with supernana to chip away steadily at the course, and as predicted, ones and two were steadily being discarded from the main bunch as the speed vs distance equation was calculated and reality struck. The tell-tale signs of expiry were showing on some even at the 35k mark (too much too soon or were the goals set too high?) but the smooth approach was working well for us on the long stretch to Yabba North.  We could feel a hint of a southerly on the turn to Dookie but nothing to diminish the tempo much, a few more caught and passed as the yellow and green patchwork  quilt spread over the hills drew nearer. A bit of a climb up to the church then down to the township, skipping the option of the schoolies circuit in favour of resfreshment and cherry slice. Cast the eye around for recruits to team with for the leg home, finding Blackie a worthy and steady contributor (rather than the many unknown and uncertain candidates) A ten minute break was enough (muscular melt down averted) so set forth west over the second (and last) big bump out of town. Down to the camel farm and on to the quarry, two ladies on bikes oncoming were just too fashionable for helmets (and intellect). Over New Dookie, past the quarry (minus magpies) then turned into Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd for the big stretch home. Whittled away at the distance with the silo finally coming into view, a bunch of 6 from behind gathering us up at the Emu. Their turns at the front were a messy affair, not much rythym or predictability on show, so  we bumped up the cogs and the pace to retake the lead (hopefully keeping them behind out of harms way), a long haul home at the front from the kennels was at least smooth and less stressful with our monopoly on the lead. (chuffed to have tapped away steadily prior, leaving enough in the reserve tank) A bit of duck and weave around some ambling 50k riders on the way back (at least Vince & Jodie on MTB's were respectable) we were back in town (with the 6 still in tow) in good time for a well earned feed.  

A bit of creak in the joints and lead in the limbs on Monday morning (out of distance condition) warranted a quiet few k's on foot, then fell into slothful slackness Monday night, the motivation tank almost dry. Preparing for Tuesday Couldabeen / hospital bunch punishment my excuse. 

A trade off in the weather Tuesday morning, 12 degrees was mild enough but the windy season is upon us, a few may be thumbing volume 4 of the book of excuses now.  Trav, Rocket, Temple, HBK, PistolPete, Kenworth, AvantiTrev and Nick set off to have FeltMat make up an even 10. Easygoing with the wind behind, most no doubt pondering the work to be done in Mitchell Rd.  A few others were creaking from Sundays effort, grateful that Rocket and co were considerate in the tempo to allow some running in. A bit of tree debris to steer clear of from last nights gusts, arriving at Boundary to sample a sidewind appetiser.  A few were in fourth but Rocket was in 5th overdrive, i'd drawn the short straw to try to match the aero ace on the front, hr climbing to 180 in the attempt down Mitchell Rd with 18km/h of unwelcomed head wind, much relief to finally have the Kenworth a couple of wheels ahead to recover in the draft. (though his mechanical malfunction had him stuck in the little ring) By Archer Rd some had taken early retirement to the rear, across the highway and heading to Arcadia it was down to just 4 to provide shelter.  Rocket, Kenworth and Nick edged away out of the Conrod dip, not enough urge left in my tank at 191. I'd had Trav attach with 500 left, grateful he took the front with 150 to go, we reeled in a spent Nick and an over revved Kenworth to finish  2nd and 3rd in 47:46:30, Rocket at a mere idle across the line. 

The hospital boomgate had a good crowd on Tuesday night, regulars Clive, Ozzie, Sam, Andy, Tony, Hamish, Axel & Dalton were at the ready , Lance along for the journey too. An eager westerly blew us toward the Emu, collecting Bomber, Sticks, Steigy, Trent, Olympic & LegalSteve and Nath up to the main channel. An enjoyable roll in the low 40's to Cosgrove North Rd, the return to town wasn't on my can't wait list, wondering what sort of pace would be set.  Some serious wattage dragged us to the toaster and I wasn't looking forward to the effort needed to pair with Nath in Old Dookie Rd into the WNW, but credit due, legs weren't torn to shreds. Sprinter was picked up nearing the bridge, Sticks and Ozzie drove us south in Boundary Rd with several now settling back into the rear seats.  I held back for a k, expecting the pin to be pulled from the grenade in River Rd, but a steady speed remained, so ventured forward to do a shift. A brief reprive in Mitchell while Sprinter calmed the excitement but he was outvoted by many keen to get pronto nearing Archer Rd. My stretch with Trent drained the reserves, the big guns fired up Mt Nicolaci which gapped this old engine, Dr Dalton to the rescue with a fine prescription tow to allowing the bpm's to settle below melt-down. A regroup in Raftery saved the day for me and others, slowly back up to prior pace by Arcadia Downs. Andy and Hamish bolted for the finish line, the last 3k in zone 5 cooked me after this mornings' toasting.  

A recovery for Wednesday morning with the (slightly sedate) Kialla Couldabeens, better with the breeze behind for a decent proportion of the lap. Nick, Shorty, Rocket, Cougar (with pockets full of Strava trophies), Jase, AvantiTrev and FujiTrev exited the roundabout, FeltMat latching on aboard a de-sqeuaked Felt.  A whisker under 6 degrees was fresh after last weeks tropical a.m.'s, many having dragged out the winter gear in preparation. Jase must have had a high octane breakfast, firing along well taking aboard some Cougar sledging for good measure. FujiTrev was a touch battered and bruised after Saturday's horizontal hiccup , still needs a Chernobyl exclusion zone though (or a painted straight line to follow with distance ahead radar braking)  No signs of peletons in Boundary Rd (maybe the express was running early?)  but a pair at the bridges seen scampering south. The breeze made a headwind chore of Channel Rd, good load sharing though helped us westward, a few gasps from FeltMat attempting to level with Jase to the kinder. Special elephant stamps to Nick and AvantiTrev for the last leg of Channel to lead us home, legs suitably loosened.

Somebody turned back the clock to July on Thursday morning, just 0.8 degrees to start the day brought out most of the Antarctic gear to survive a ride. A great turn up for the routine Couldabeens thrash though, Kenworth, Cougar, Rocket, Nick, Temple, Jase, PistolPete, FeltMat, Chris A, Vince & Luke in a special appearance, AvantiTrev arriving as the flag dropped.  The flight out Channel Rd had moments of split second distractions with picture postcard views of fog rising from the channels as the horizon lit up. Top guns were evenly spread amongst us mortals for a change, nice to see due respect shown to those on the rev limiter.  Vince and Luke stayed the tail-light position as the bakers dozen rolled along the usual course, all those welcoming chilly patches to enjoy again, at least someone had pulled the fuse on the wind. Crossing Central Kialla Rd,  Rocket and Chris had paired up to turn up the heat (still able to chat away whilst most devoted all their time to taking in iced oxygen) , nothing to rip the bunch apart though. Urgency was ramped up in the last 2k of Raftery, young Luke making a suprise appearance at the front. Just a few metres at the pointy end brought on case of premature ejection, Rocket, Jase, Kenworth & Chris adding more coal to the boiler to finish in that order, strong finishes too by Nick, Cougar & FeltMat.

Ventured south to the library Thursday evening, quite a chill to the air but had rugged up in a few warm layers. Bomber and Sticks had rolled away 10 minutes ahead of schedule, Kev too, 5 minutes early.  Nine departed the library at 6 bells, FujiTrev at the tail-end (thankfully).  Jamie was in summer kit and usual comical form, Oz, Harpo, Dalton, Simmo, Clive, Tony & Robbo made up a good starting grid to ply north to Wanganui Rd, my turn with Oz manageable (but I wish the heart rate wouldn't climb so quickly). Kev was collected at the transfer station (nursing a torn gastroch)  a pungent pong collected from the treatment plant took a few breaths away. A rare treat to have a steady tap out to the Emu, Bomber & Sticks, Mitch, Sprinter and OlympicSteve hooking on but nobody on a record breaking pace. Sprinter volunteered his services at the front at the church as Mitch upped the ante, within a few hundred metres a double roll saved Sprinter from being toasted to a crisp. Another round of turns saw us at the Boundary Rd piggery, OlympicSteve and Mitch this time delivering the agenda. Sprinter again to the front (near the bridges) was toasted again, speed dropping for a bit to avoid explosion. A tame run in River Rd in the mid 30's dissolved a few concerns and nightmares, Bomber and Sticks dismounting at our Mitchell Rd turn.  The manageable momentum remained until the exit of Roubaix, OlympicSteve steadily winding up the boost at the front, 3 minutes worth of mid 40's driving the whole train says it all. Look up machine in the dictionary and there's a picture of Steve. The tempo tortured Jamie & i (2nd & 3rd wheel), half a dozen moved past into sprint position, while Jamie & I swapped tows to survive a mid field finish, a long string of casualties behind.

Fridays focus was a quiet one, just to enjoy a relaxed ride without attention to speed, average, cadence or heart rate. A cool 30k tapped out with Cougs, the reward of a spectacular hot pink sunrise against the Mitchell Rd canola far outweighs a flogging on a freaky Friday in my book. Puts a bit of balance in the week and allows ancient legs a bit of recovery (needing more each week it seems) 

Week 37   423km (Gregory NT to Kununnurra W.A)  YTD 12,685km

"There is nothing like returning to a place that remains unchanged to find the ways in which you yourself have altered"  Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela (1918-   )