Another year rolls by and so do the numbers. Went a bit over the top this year but had some great rides, importantly with some great mates. Might have been a bit excessive tackling the entire 521km Murray to Moyne (18.5 hrs ride) in April but it was made achieveable with incredible team suuport, particularly Ayto, Chris, Fee, Meags and my long time bike buddy Cougs.
A great year for bunches too, 17 Lake group rides, 26 with the hospital bunch, 29 circuits with the Library lads, 47 laps with the OC's, 56 recovery loops, 94 rides with the Couldabeens and 98 tours with the P&W's (complete with a million laughs!) 62 solo toaster circuits sorted the psychiatry, 7 Vets races and a Fruitloop added variety too. Rain prevented 14 rides, got wet on 6.
Expenditure was 10 tyres, 8 tubes, 3 chains, a bottom bracket (and headstem) bearing set and new 12, 13 & 14 tooth sprockets. (The little chainring remains untouched)
In all 22,198 kilometres, 426km/week (that's Shepparton to Bishkek [Kyrqyzstan] and back or round Australia clockwise via Highway 1......and around again to Mount Isa) Average speed 32.8.
Consumed 819,106 calories or 693 watts (7,000 Weetbix, 50kg sugar with 437 litres of milk - low fat of course!)
The numbers mean nothing really, it's the mates that really count. Those improving in leaps and bounds, the green apprentices, those who just keep on trying their best. Knit that with good smooth teamwork and watching out for each other, you only need to stay upright!
Now for 2012............................
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Friday, December 30, 2011
Week 52
16 keen to start Christmas eve with an OC circuit, a pleasant (and long overdue) 18 degrees making the decision easy. The regular legends rolled in full of Christmas cheer (or full of something!) only a light ESE breeze to contend with. Graeme set a very early pit stop with a puncture less than 100 metres from the start, Nev quick on the spanners and levers to repair post haste. A good roll out Mitchell Rd (even the Cats had the Christmas spirit holding formation) A few reminders from the back of our bunch formed a proper echelon for the breeze in Boundary Rd, now swung from the northheast slowly gaining strength. Cougs suggested poking Nev to see if he was awake, but most were working time and a half up front. Good yarns with Hoffy, Dave and JB. Noticed the Bo and Vince rollover ramps up the speed by 15%, might need an octopus strap if these two pair up again. Good to have a bonded team today, a bit more care in smoothing out the starts & stops. Nev idled along Wanganui at 40 (i almost burst a gasket to stay level) so was pleased to let the gunners go, turning into Rudd. Finished well with the Norm, Chris & Cougs team, Nev taking line honours with Daniel san a fine second (Bo scouring his volumes for excuses i think.) Great yuletide banter over a caffine fix. Hard to leave after, could have sat for hours.
Santa must have been noisy (eyes opened at 5.30am) but he didnt leave any carbon fibre goodies under my tree on the big day. No hope of sleeping in when the grey cells turn on, so breakfast and kit up for a lap before the forecast rain arrives. Set off on a toaster loop with Thievery Corp & Abel Tesfaye for company on the i- pod (the awesome Ayto, often a starter on the xmas day divorcee ride, was deservedly resting after a 180k hit in the hills yesterday) Looming dark blue clouds in the west spelled dampness, but when, was the question. A south easterly had swung to north-northwest making sure i had no tailwind to enjoy for any of the toaster loop. Pressed on down Boundary reeling in and passing another rider (plodding slowly) and catching young Abbey near Euroa Rd just as a few drops fell. A very large tree was down and out across the road a bit before Archer, the constabulary minding it with reds and blues flashing. Abbeys' dry ride home in her boyfriends car had arrived, i shortcut down Archer but got drenched anyway, a merry Christmas with socks soggy and a wet arse. Pleased with a 33.7 in the conditions though. Oh well, the bike got a good clean, i got warmed in the shower then cocopops and raisin toast as my 2nd course Christmas breakfast treat.
No takers on Boxing day to ride, so a solo Couldabeens lap in 20 degree comfort was on the agenda. Lots of kamikaze insects swarming about in town (finding their way into one's orifices, but hardly a car about. The northerly wreaked revenge in Mitchell Rd tossing wheels off course, only one rider anti-clockwise on the circuit. Fair amount of headwind torment for the final 4 k's of Raftery but 33.6 was ok with the wind factor. The favorite coffee haunts were closed for the public holiday so it was the Scottish restaurant for vienna and raisin toast (a half baked comparison to Adams skills at the Butterfactory) .
Guilt over turkey and pudding excesses brought out a few for the Couldabeens effort on Tuesday morning. Trev, Jason, Glenn (times two), Graham, Rocket, Daniel and Chris rolled out Channel, picking up Nathan & Laura half way out. A Boundary-Ford-Wanganui was optioned (the ssw @ 22 may have influenced Trev's suggestion) but sensibly paced for those carrying a few of Christmas's kilos. The rocket unaffected by drag co-efficient held off Daniel to claim honours at the Rudd Rd chequered flag, Nathan saving legs for the track tomorrow handed me third. All retired to the Lemontree for coffee, tall stories and true in good supply. The pursuit of an annual goal dragged my motivation on another lap at 8 , at last going with the wind rather than against it (well, for Boundary Rd anyway) Caught Ken with 7 other cruisers on a gentle amble at the top of Mitchell, so rolled leisurely with them to the Butterfactory, taking in scrambled eggs with more caffine. 70 clicks in the bank.
Procrastinated Tuesday arvo with a tough s-ssw wind, but sucummed and rolled to the hospital boom gate at 6 to see who'd survived Christmas. Only Dave, Gav and John A were brave, so we set off promising each other a sensible lap without heroics. Steve joined us in Verney Rd, the Eggman out near the kennels enrolled too. (we needed a big engine for the headwind) All considerate and chatty, but tough work to be done heading south into 30-44km/h torture. Young John was clearly unfazed at 32km/h , i was hanging out for the next roll (way too long later). We passed Gazza just beyond Channel Rd, he held on for a tow but dropped 2 k's down. A bit easier turning westward but John had a 35k rate set to match. Much relief a few kilometers later to have some rest with a rotation. No sprint at the end just a good group finish to cap off a solid lap. 42 k's bagged (even closer to the goal now).
Little mate Cougs is off on well deserved holidays, Norm & Chris apologies too; nearly turned marshmallow and had a sleep in, but the addiction kicked in dragging me out at 5.30. Considered attempting to hold onto Rockets' wheel for his anti-clockwise Wednesday group loop but doubted there'd be starters. (turns out he'd escaped to the Test match anyway) Spied Rhino heading to the P&W's so rolled up to SPC where just he and i waited.........and waited. No others fronting (Benalla Tri yesterday a good reason) so just a pair to tackle the southerly blowing at 24 -33 kays. Rhino had his Sydney Marathon legs well sorted for the push (was he at his limit or just diplomatically holding my speed?, one wouldn't know; the great poker face gave nothing away) Much relief turning out of the headwind into Mitchell Rd, but the wind was now shoving us sideways. A few looks back identified a dozen Cats a kilometer or so behind. Legs had turned like Gumby's (kids of the late 60's might remember) but i was in good hands, Krakey's no killer. Very satisfying rolling through the Raftery bridge with 33.5 logged, Cats flogged and train bogged (at the station) The poor old BM clocked up 22k for the year on the way home, deserves a little treat to endure me that much.
Thursday morning i'd intercepted Graeme coming in from Mooroopna on the way to a Couldabeens get-together. No Matty (on a solo attempt to banish Santas waistline syndrome) but good to see Leon, Ryan, Bo & Kel and even Gav emerge from festive retirement. Even without Vince or Steve, Bo was keen to up the ante with whoever came up front. I thought Boundary's headwind (de rigeur) may have induced a reduction of pace but Rocket was eager to burn some of yesterdays carbo loading at the cricket. Was informed Rabbit had tacked on in Mitchell Rd as I sided with Graham for the lead duties but had unwittingly burnt him half a k later (sorry mate!) tucking in behind to hand the shift to Trev. Mick rolled past (after a breather?) beyond the Mitchell chicane but the team held ranks (nobody up for torture i guess). Endorphins and adrenalin in abundance beyond Arcadia Downs, up in the high fourties (aided by the wind at our backs) I should have known better than to hit the gas with 200 to go with Rocket and Bo preying behind (should have packed a JATO to be sure) 'cause 58 aint enough to capitalise the front with the Rocket's kick. Bo had glued to his wheel for 2nd, this wannabe Renshaw (maybe a jurassic homebrand version) satisfied with 3rd. 35.2 average got us all over the railway line before the train.
Just 8 at the Library Thursday night. The ever present wind (from the south west) was varying from 26 to 39 to make the homeward legs go jelly like. A few reminders needed to have some leaders move up the road to protect those behind from the elements. A friendly group though, joined by Gools and Gav near the piggery (the aroma thick enough to photograph on a warm afternoon!) Dave was doing it tough into the wind, but then anyone else carrying those injuries would be sooking in bed. One tough lad. Our Queensland visitor was showing signs of buckling too but thanks to the smoothness that is Gools on the front, all survived to turn westward, homeward. Gav's had a good tune-up, a difficult boy to stay with when he's in the drivers seat. Copious relief from the wind when turning into Raftery upped the tempo at the cost of dropping our Queenslander and a kay later, Dave. Down to 6 doing turns for the remainder, i got lucky at the 150 mark to attack successfully, a 58 max relegating Gav to 2nd and Danny 3rd. Halted at the Raftery bridge to gather up Dave and roll back into town. Pondered possible dinner recipes to replace calories burnt. A low flying duck would have done nicely!
Great to enjoy a recovery ride Friday with my little buddy back from holiday. Still a bit fresh but a delight to have the breeze behind for a change. A cheery greeting from the P&W's in two neat rows, mainly a mumble from the Cats a km later (Area 51 lurking on the back, about to cause mayhem) and the rebel alliance cemetary group another k back with a cheeky g'day from Nev. Good to witness, greatful to miss. A steady smooth lap void on headwind struggle most beneficial to tired legs and a fitting end to the week and almost the year.
Week 52 471km 17,379 calories ( 7 fruit mince pies, 8 shortbread biscuits, 2kg of roast turkey, 20 thick slices of baked ham, 10 large roast potatoes, 2kg of baked pumpkin, 8 roast carrots, 4 heads of brocolli, 2kg steamed beans, 2 litres of red wine, 1kg of plum pudding with 1.2 litres of custard and 6 scoops of ice cream and, of course, just one wafer thin chocolate mint!) Funny, i reckon we all had nearly that for Christmas lunch! 33.1 average.
No quote this week, just a big genuine thanks to all for a year of fantastic rides (all upright too) and really great fellowship.
A special 2011 review next post.
Santa must have been noisy (eyes opened at 5.30am) but he didnt leave any carbon fibre goodies under my tree on the big day. No hope of sleeping in when the grey cells turn on, so breakfast and kit up for a lap before the forecast rain arrives. Set off on a toaster loop with Thievery Corp & Abel Tesfaye for company on the i- pod (the awesome Ayto, often a starter on the xmas day divorcee ride, was deservedly resting after a 180k hit in the hills yesterday) Looming dark blue clouds in the west spelled dampness, but when, was the question. A south easterly had swung to north-northwest making sure i had no tailwind to enjoy for any of the toaster loop. Pressed on down Boundary reeling in and passing another rider (plodding slowly) and catching young Abbey near Euroa Rd just as a few drops fell. A very large tree was down and out across the road a bit before Archer, the constabulary minding it with reds and blues flashing. Abbeys' dry ride home in her boyfriends car had arrived, i shortcut down Archer but got drenched anyway, a merry Christmas with socks soggy and a wet arse. Pleased with a 33.7 in the conditions though. Oh well, the bike got a good clean, i got warmed in the shower then cocopops and raisin toast as my 2nd course Christmas breakfast treat.
No takers on Boxing day to ride, so a solo Couldabeens lap in 20 degree comfort was on the agenda. Lots of kamikaze insects swarming about in town (finding their way into one's orifices, but hardly a car about. The northerly wreaked revenge in Mitchell Rd tossing wheels off course, only one rider anti-clockwise on the circuit. Fair amount of headwind torment for the final 4 k's of Raftery but 33.6 was ok with the wind factor. The favorite coffee haunts were closed for the public holiday so it was the Scottish restaurant for vienna and raisin toast (a half baked comparison to Adams skills at the Butterfactory) .
Guilt over turkey and pudding excesses brought out a few for the Couldabeens effort on Tuesday morning. Trev, Jason, Glenn (times two), Graham, Rocket, Daniel and Chris rolled out Channel, picking up Nathan & Laura half way out. A Boundary-Ford-Wanganui was optioned (the ssw @ 22 may have influenced Trev's suggestion) but sensibly paced for those carrying a few of Christmas's kilos. The rocket unaffected by drag co-efficient held off Daniel to claim honours at the Rudd Rd chequered flag, Nathan saving legs for the track tomorrow handed me third. All retired to the Lemontree for coffee, tall stories and true in good supply. The pursuit of an annual goal dragged my motivation on another lap at 8 , at last going with the wind rather than against it (well, for Boundary Rd anyway) Caught Ken with 7 other cruisers on a gentle amble at the top of Mitchell, so rolled leisurely with them to the Butterfactory, taking in scrambled eggs with more caffine. 70 clicks in the bank.
Procrastinated Tuesday arvo with a tough s-ssw wind, but sucummed and rolled to the hospital boom gate at 6 to see who'd survived Christmas. Only Dave, Gav and John A were brave, so we set off promising each other a sensible lap without heroics. Steve joined us in Verney Rd, the Eggman out near the kennels enrolled too. (we needed a big engine for the headwind) All considerate and chatty, but tough work to be done heading south into 30-44km/h torture. Young John was clearly unfazed at 32km/h , i was hanging out for the next roll (way too long later). We passed Gazza just beyond Channel Rd, he held on for a tow but dropped 2 k's down. A bit easier turning westward but John had a 35k rate set to match. Much relief a few kilometers later to have some rest with a rotation. No sprint at the end just a good group finish to cap off a solid lap. 42 k's bagged (even closer to the goal now).
Little mate Cougs is off on well deserved holidays, Norm & Chris apologies too; nearly turned marshmallow and had a sleep in, but the addiction kicked in dragging me out at 5.30. Considered attempting to hold onto Rockets' wheel for his anti-clockwise Wednesday group loop but doubted there'd be starters. (turns out he'd escaped to the Test match anyway) Spied Rhino heading to the P&W's so rolled up to SPC where just he and i waited.........and waited. No others fronting (Benalla Tri yesterday a good reason) so just a pair to tackle the southerly blowing at 24 -33 kays. Rhino had his Sydney Marathon legs well sorted for the push (was he at his limit or just diplomatically holding my speed?, one wouldn't know; the great poker face gave nothing away) Much relief turning out of the headwind into Mitchell Rd, but the wind was now shoving us sideways. A few looks back identified a dozen Cats a kilometer or so behind. Legs had turned like Gumby's (kids of the late 60's might remember) but i was in good hands, Krakey's no killer. Very satisfying rolling through the Raftery bridge with 33.5 logged, Cats flogged and train bogged (at the station) The poor old BM clocked up 22k for the year on the way home, deserves a little treat to endure me that much.
Thursday morning i'd intercepted Graeme coming in from Mooroopna on the way to a Couldabeens get-together. No Matty (on a solo attempt to banish Santas waistline syndrome) but good to see Leon, Ryan, Bo & Kel and even Gav emerge from festive retirement. Even without Vince or Steve, Bo was keen to up the ante with whoever came up front. I thought Boundary's headwind (de rigeur) may have induced a reduction of pace but Rocket was eager to burn some of yesterdays carbo loading at the cricket. Was informed Rabbit had tacked on in Mitchell Rd as I sided with Graham for the lead duties but had unwittingly burnt him half a k later (sorry mate!) tucking in behind to hand the shift to Trev. Mick rolled past (after a breather?) beyond the Mitchell chicane but the team held ranks (nobody up for torture i guess). Endorphins and adrenalin in abundance beyond Arcadia Downs, up in the high fourties (aided by the wind at our backs) I should have known better than to hit the gas with 200 to go with Rocket and Bo preying behind (should have packed a JATO to be sure) 'cause 58 aint enough to capitalise the front with the Rocket's kick. Bo had glued to his wheel for 2nd, this wannabe Renshaw (maybe a jurassic homebrand version) satisfied with 3rd. 35.2 average got us all over the railway line before the train.
Just 8 at the Library Thursday night. The ever present wind (from the south west) was varying from 26 to 39 to make the homeward legs go jelly like. A few reminders needed to have some leaders move up the road to protect those behind from the elements. A friendly group though, joined by Gools and Gav near the piggery (the aroma thick enough to photograph on a warm afternoon!) Dave was doing it tough into the wind, but then anyone else carrying those injuries would be sooking in bed. One tough lad. Our Queensland visitor was showing signs of buckling too but thanks to the smoothness that is Gools on the front, all survived to turn westward, homeward. Gav's had a good tune-up, a difficult boy to stay with when he's in the drivers seat. Copious relief from the wind when turning into Raftery upped the tempo at the cost of dropping our Queenslander and a kay later, Dave. Down to 6 doing turns for the remainder, i got lucky at the 150 mark to attack successfully, a 58 max relegating Gav to 2nd and Danny 3rd. Halted at the Raftery bridge to gather up Dave and roll back into town. Pondered possible dinner recipes to replace calories burnt. A low flying duck would have done nicely!
Great to enjoy a recovery ride Friday with my little buddy back from holiday. Still a bit fresh but a delight to have the breeze behind for a change. A cheery greeting from the P&W's in two neat rows, mainly a mumble from the Cats a km later (Area 51 lurking on the back, about to cause mayhem) and the rebel alliance cemetary group another k back with a cheeky g'day from Nev. Good to witness, greatful to miss. A steady smooth lap void on headwind struggle most beneficial to tired legs and a fitting end to the week and almost the year.
Week 52 471km 17,379 calories ( 7 fruit mince pies, 8 shortbread biscuits, 2kg of roast turkey, 20 thick slices of baked ham, 10 large roast potatoes, 2kg of baked pumpkin, 8 roast carrots, 4 heads of brocolli, 2kg steamed beans, 2 litres of red wine, 1kg of plum pudding with 1.2 litres of custard and 6 scoops of ice cream and, of course, just one wafer thin chocolate mint!) Funny, i reckon we all had nearly that for Christmas lunch! 33.1 average.
No quote this week, just a big genuine thanks to all for a year of fantastic rides (all upright too) and really great fellowship.
A special 2011 review next post.
Friday, December 23, 2011
Week 51
On the home stretch now, not much left of the year. Quite a balmy 17 degree start for Saturdays OC cruise, good to join the crew of 15 for a lap with some verbal intercouse. (Noticed the puddytats were strung out across Mitchell Rd in several bunches, lots of speed served up at the Pine Lodge pub I'm told.) An echelon was organised for Boundary Roads' northeast wind, lots happy to tuck in out of the breeze. A collective sigh of relief turning into Ford Rd, Bo, Daniel, Ryan & Nev primed for the 40's pace homeward and eastward. The hit-out after Numurkah Rd didn't give many a chance for all to get across together, but i was happy to group with a few for the push home. Nev took the chocolates, Bo relegated to bridesmaid again. As is customary, an enjoyable yarn and coffee followed.
Off the bike on Sunday, but helped out at the 250/8/2 Tri. Witnessed Goose & Greeny having a good dip in friendly rivalry, Danny cranking his new Felt TT well, Stace & Hayles proving to be quick chicks on their feet too!
Rolled up to SPC on Monday but seems the locker lads had put the usual P&W spirit & teamwork on hold for a suffer session. Better to let them burn up some testosterone, so paired with Cougs for a steady circuit. Mild again at 17 degrees, bike grubby from last nights rain, but an enjoyable 30k's @ 32.5 in the bank. A new set of brake pads as a Christmas present for the bike, better than grinding the Cosmics thin.
Good Couldabeens attendance again on Tuesday. Newbie Nick hung onto 15 for the circuit, great to have Tim back again (but where is Matt?) A fairly brisk ride out Channel Rd and into a light southerly, sure enough the Bart & Rabbit roadshow was ahead today dangling the carrot. Teamwork prevailed, though there were some tired legs in Mitchell Rd. Norm, the two Tims and Nick were getting hungry for horsepower (but by the time i assumed the tow truck role, Norm was well off the back) No further victims, we grouped together for a conrod straight finish with 35.5 recorded, Chris scoring an excellent 2nd behind Rob who's cemented his podium finishes.
Tuesday night was another windswept torture test, southerlys howling from 32 to 43 km/h sent to test the resolve. 16 rolled off from the hospital in a mild 22 degrees. The detestable twirp with a litanous streak posed his cocky presence again, but all ignored him and was quickly OTA less than a km later. Back to a great group with a few variations of speed (must buy Nathan a speedo for Christmas so he can read the punishment he deals out!) but a very chatty & friendly ride, Graham welcomed back from drilling duties in 2 states, Gools and Brendan hooking on in Ford Rd. Anything southbound was painful, leveling with Jamie at 34 was hard yakka. Danny hit out solo on the new TT Felt, but by the time Melbourne Rd had been reached we'd reeled him back in, though a few were perishing by then. Gools was firing on all cylinders in Raftery Rd, lots prepared to have a turn at the pointy end. Had the box seat behind Jamie with 250 left and hit hard to the front, but 59km/h is just not enough to keep young Nathan at bay. No shame in second to a young fella (but it took about a k to get the heart rate down!) 34.3 a good result for 50k's.
The annual P&W Christmas ride for Wednesday, nearly all tinselled up for a quiet and very friendly circuit (down the original Channel Rd route) with appropriate refreshments after. Griffo with flashing red nose, Choppy with baubels dangling from handlebars and seat, Fee in a Santa sack, Cougs in Mr Cringle's attire.....a proper celebration and heaps of laughs (especially after a couple of champagnes at 6.30am!) A great breakfast at Friars after, Ayto awarding the golden sledge to Blighty for outstanding services to sarcasm through the year.
Thursday morning was another chrissy extravaganza, 20 Couldabeens showing the Christmas spirit. Steve in a full Santa kit mut have lost 3 kg in sweat, Kel in the elf suit, Ryan with flashing Christmas tree lights on the Janis, Cougs in santas little helper kit, Vince sporting reindeer antlers. A festive spirit to the ride with the pace pegged back a little. Great to have Matt back, Norm was back to former form, another new recruit Jason along too. A lot of Christmas and holiday chat around the loop, even had Col hook on for a tow home. Turning into Conrod, Gav launched a super slo-mo break, plenty joining in if only to gain an insight on how Rob crucifies us all. A 34.1 average, letting the train through first for a rare change.
The familiar bunch assembled at the library Thursday night, a humid 30 degrees with a medium west-southwest. The Boulevard had been re-sealed so a new course was set via Knight St and Hawdon / Verney to avoid riding on marbles. A little jockeying for position saw me draw a short straw with Deano. No drama heading out to the emu, but the Cannondale went off like a cannon into the wind. Couldnt match Robbo's 40km/h , but held 38 till back-up arrived at the church. By the toaster i'd regained heart rate control and could breathe again. We'd turned into Boundary Rd when Steve was noticed some way back attempting to catch on. A brief ease of speed and a good tow from Dean & Chris saw a re-assembly to proceed. Mitch appropriately appeared in Mitchell (road that is) and it was full steam ahead at Raftery for the finish. Legs were complaining in the high 40's with a kilometer to go so didn't contest the finish (but rolled through a sixth anyway) Thoughts were set on a cold drink and dinner, 35.2 for the 50k done and dusted.
Team spirit was back with the P&W's Friday morning. The FAG's had been let out of their cage early and rolled past, our crew departing at the usual time with HWK and Minto escorting us out of town. A touch of an easterly made duties at the front hard on my jellied legs, thankfully Princess wasn't keen on a hot tempo either. Great quick chick presence with Fee, Stace, Cougs and Meags along, Ryno, Scotty and Sosso completing the boy section. At Melbourne Rd Area 51 flew past (a bold move, scaring the solitary rider oncoming s*#tless) with Deano, Nev, Chris and Mitch amongst the pack. (Team Cervelo's Brett L took honours of course) The collective decision to make it a P&W ladies day saw us steadily build up speed in Raftery Rd, good team rolls into Conrod and a great burst at the finish from Cougs to grab the win as an early Christmas present. Its a great ride when everyone can have a go and to finish as we start...together. 35.7 a great end to the week.
Week 51 379km 13985 calories ( 14.3 family sized packs of chips) 34.4 average
"Adversity causes some to break, others to break records" William Arthur Ward
Off the bike on Sunday, but helped out at the 250/8/2 Tri. Witnessed Goose & Greeny having a good dip in friendly rivalry, Danny cranking his new Felt TT well, Stace & Hayles proving to be quick chicks on their feet too!
Rolled up to SPC on Monday but seems the locker lads had put the usual P&W spirit & teamwork on hold for a suffer session. Better to let them burn up some testosterone, so paired with Cougs for a steady circuit. Mild again at 17 degrees, bike grubby from last nights rain, but an enjoyable 30k's @ 32.5 in the bank. A new set of brake pads as a Christmas present for the bike, better than grinding the Cosmics thin.
Good Couldabeens attendance again on Tuesday. Newbie Nick hung onto 15 for the circuit, great to have Tim back again (but where is Matt?) A fairly brisk ride out Channel Rd and into a light southerly, sure enough the Bart & Rabbit roadshow was ahead today dangling the carrot. Teamwork prevailed, though there were some tired legs in Mitchell Rd. Norm, the two Tims and Nick were getting hungry for horsepower (but by the time i assumed the tow truck role, Norm was well off the back) No further victims, we grouped together for a conrod straight finish with 35.5 recorded, Chris scoring an excellent 2nd behind Rob who's cemented his podium finishes.
Tuesday night was another windswept torture test, southerlys howling from 32 to 43 km/h sent to test the resolve. 16 rolled off from the hospital in a mild 22 degrees. The detestable twirp with a litanous streak posed his cocky presence again, but all ignored him and was quickly OTA less than a km later. Back to a great group with a few variations of speed (must buy Nathan a speedo for Christmas so he can read the punishment he deals out!) but a very chatty & friendly ride, Graham welcomed back from drilling duties in 2 states, Gools and Brendan hooking on in Ford Rd. Anything southbound was painful, leveling with Jamie at 34 was hard yakka. Danny hit out solo on the new TT Felt, but by the time Melbourne Rd had been reached we'd reeled him back in, though a few were perishing by then. Gools was firing on all cylinders in Raftery Rd, lots prepared to have a turn at the pointy end. Had the box seat behind Jamie with 250 left and hit hard to the front, but 59km/h is just not enough to keep young Nathan at bay. No shame in second to a young fella (but it took about a k to get the heart rate down!) 34.3 a good result for 50k's.
The annual P&W Christmas ride for Wednesday, nearly all tinselled up for a quiet and very friendly circuit (down the original Channel Rd route) with appropriate refreshments after. Griffo with flashing red nose, Choppy with baubels dangling from handlebars and seat, Fee in a Santa sack, Cougs in Mr Cringle's attire.....a proper celebration and heaps of laughs (especially after a couple of champagnes at 6.30am!) A great breakfast at Friars after, Ayto awarding the golden sledge to Blighty for outstanding services to sarcasm through the year.
Thursday morning was another chrissy extravaganza, 20 Couldabeens showing the Christmas spirit. Steve in a full Santa kit mut have lost 3 kg in sweat, Kel in the elf suit, Ryan with flashing Christmas tree lights on the Janis, Cougs in santas little helper kit, Vince sporting reindeer antlers. A festive spirit to the ride with the pace pegged back a little. Great to have Matt back, Norm was back to former form, another new recruit Jason along too. A lot of Christmas and holiday chat around the loop, even had Col hook on for a tow home. Turning into Conrod, Gav launched a super slo-mo break, plenty joining in if only to gain an insight on how Rob crucifies us all. A 34.1 average, letting the train through first for a rare change.
The familiar bunch assembled at the library Thursday night, a humid 30 degrees with a medium west-southwest. The Boulevard had been re-sealed so a new course was set via Knight St and Hawdon / Verney to avoid riding on marbles. A little jockeying for position saw me draw a short straw with Deano. No drama heading out to the emu, but the Cannondale went off like a cannon into the wind. Couldnt match Robbo's 40km/h , but held 38 till back-up arrived at the church. By the toaster i'd regained heart rate control and could breathe again. We'd turned into Boundary Rd when Steve was noticed some way back attempting to catch on. A brief ease of speed and a good tow from Dean & Chris saw a re-assembly to proceed. Mitch appropriately appeared in Mitchell (road that is) and it was full steam ahead at Raftery for the finish. Legs were complaining in the high 40's with a kilometer to go so didn't contest the finish (but rolled through a sixth anyway) Thoughts were set on a cold drink and dinner, 35.2 for the 50k done and dusted.
Team spirit was back with the P&W's Friday morning. The FAG's had been let out of their cage early and rolled past, our crew departing at the usual time with HWK and Minto escorting us out of town. A touch of an easterly made duties at the front hard on my jellied legs, thankfully Princess wasn't keen on a hot tempo either. Great quick chick presence with Fee, Stace, Cougs and Meags along, Ryno, Scotty and Sosso completing the boy section. At Melbourne Rd Area 51 flew past (a bold move, scaring the solitary rider oncoming s*#tless) with Deano, Nev, Chris and Mitch amongst the pack. (Team Cervelo's Brett L took honours of course) The collective decision to make it a P&W ladies day saw us steadily build up speed in Raftery Rd, good team rolls into Conrod and a great burst at the finish from Cougs to grab the win as an early Christmas present. Its a great ride when everyone can have a go and to finish as we start...together. 35.7 a great end to the week.
Week 51 379km 13985 calories ( 14.3 family sized packs of chips) 34.4 average
"Adversity causes some to break, others to break records" William Arthur Ward
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Week 50
Legs (and other tender parts) are a little better today, the forecast fairly average though. A gentle roll down to the start in the 53/19 (heaven forbid soiling the little chainring) to compare opinions on weather and what makes the world go round with the OC's. The dedicated and hardened legends were there (missing the ace characters of Temple, Matty, Leon & Daniel though) 8 earlybirds had flown the nest at quarter to, but the 7.00am express departed on schedule with 14 (with a young and new passenger Liam) aboard. A nice muscularly empathetic start, but the Vince & Bo torture team had many suffering into the headwind of Boundary Rd. (several none-too-subtle reminders brought them into order) Lots of internet forecast comparisons were being discussed, none included the dark clouds forming around ahead. The reality of rainfall arrived, the wrestling with negative thoughts as tough as the 20-30km/h northeaster. Optimism finally won (heard a couple suggest a likely and imminent Old Dookie Rd shortcut) but the team pushed on northbound. Many sighs of relief to feel the shower subside and the breeze at our back turning into Ford Rd. Yep, hope springs eternal. Brilliant to see the quick chicks driving the big train at a great rate of knots, Cougs and Kel the double barreled shotgun of the day. Vince & Bo did their (blatantly obvious) rotation manipulation to gain a favorable sprint position for Rudd Rd but all was in vein, Kel took a mighty win (girlpower reigns supreme) which brought out further quotes from Bo's book. An enjoyable "post mortem" over coffee, the average a bit calmer this week (32) with wind and rain. Great to have the Butterfactory's Adam remember nearly everyones' name and caffine of preference (a worthy nominee of customer service king)
A short and sweet lap of 25ks on Sunday morning, opting for an anti-clockwise circuit Monday morning too (the strong southwester making it an easy choice) Just Minto had braved the P&W start (saw him battling the elements southbound in Boundary Rd.) Just a kilometer behind Rabbit, the Fish and Nev had amalgamated to hunt him down (glad I wasn't in that battle!) Enthusiasm was low on Monday night so a bit of gardening was completed instead (see, I do have some life off the bike!)
16 Couldabeens assembled Tuesday, missing a few essential characters though. Not quite the same without Leon, Daniel, Cougs, Temple and Matt, (Christmas takes it work toll). Patrick returned but struggled to hold on. Noticed a pair chasing us when we turned into Boundary Rd, finally at Archer Rd it was Rabbit & Bart that hooked on. With 3 k to go they'd recovered to take turns, the tempo went hard at Arcadia Downs to prove who was who. (gave a knowing grin to Rob set up the tactics) Spent all my pennies in the final 200 meters to allow the little rocket a brief respite to load his killer final punch. A great win scored, easily disposing of Mick & Bart, leaving us all humbled in our 50+ km/h attempt to stay with him.
I'd envisaged Tuesday nights blustery 30-45k southerly as a precarious bunch ride, so optioned a solo anti-clockwise toaster loop. So hard to hold a straight line, thoughts held out for the relief of tail wind help in Boundary Rd. (the only motivation to beat the head and side wind struggle). Reflected on a 32km ride in 55 minutes achieved in 1972, grateful i can still match it despite the 30+ year tobacco abuse in between. Saw the hospital bunch wrestling with the wind near the emu, happy to be solo tonight rather than dodging other wheels being tossed around. A very hard 15k slog home but relieved to clock 33 for 50k's.
Wednesdays recovery loop was more than welcome (waited for Norm, but he'd missed the start) Cougs and i taking in the tail wind with great pleasure. Good for tired legs to have a restful ride. Newto must have missed the Area 51 start, seen hammering out Old Dookie in a futile attempt to head them off at the pass. Low numbers in this pack recently (a fracture in the faction?)
14 at the Couldabeens on Thursday and only a light southeaster to contend with. A stray stick near the cypress trees in Channel Rd was flicked high in the air off a wheel, landing perfectly atop my helmet with a thud. (me and sticks.....!) Matt, Leon & Daniel still absent with work commitments unfortunately. Graeme made the Mooroopna migration again (a regular attendee now) not long ago full tilt at 30, now driving the engine in the high 30's. Great to witness the Kel & Cougs guns firing at the front, a great team spirit amongst this crew. Rubber stamp a Rocket win again, a regular mid 30's average notched up by all.
Quite windy and quite warm (28 degrees, summer finally here?) on Thursday night, 13 plugged into the 13k ENE to the Emu. Collecting 9 more in our travels, the wind swung to a 20k southerly (just as i scored a second shift at the front with Bomber....mmm, is it penance for something?) 2 or 3 had dissapeared from the pack when we reached Mitchell Rd, at least the side wind gave a chance to draw breath for a yarn with Gools, Axel & Dalton. At the business end of Raftery Rd, Deano worked a mighty shift on the front, waltzing away with the chequered flag. I collared 2nd spot (maxed at 60 mind you) so will need something illegal to do better!
Quite a huddle of FAG's and locker boys near the SPC roundabout early Friday, obviously conspiring to belt out hard and early. The established P&W crew held ranks though, the 5.05's of Ayto, Fox, Hayles, Ruley, Stace & Wizz embedded in the pack. The good old days of chuckle & chat had returned yet a solid speed prevailed. Choppy's humour and the teams' spirit was in abundance, the big fang down Conrod too (35.8average). I was down the back of the bunch at the finish, happy to be surrounded by quick chicks (and a pat on the back by Mo and Eggy for the last k's tow) so missed the podium positions. Legs creaked loudly all morning at work but the head was happy with a great finish to a 417k week burning 15387 calories (3.7kg of Milo) at 32.8 average.
Quote of the week "Winning is about heart, not just legs. It's got to be in the right place"
Lance Armstrong
A short and sweet lap of 25ks on Sunday morning, opting for an anti-clockwise circuit Monday morning too (the strong southwester making it an easy choice) Just Minto had braved the P&W start (saw him battling the elements southbound in Boundary Rd.) Just a kilometer behind Rabbit, the Fish and Nev had amalgamated to hunt him down (glad I wasn't in that battle!) Enthusiasm was low on Monday night so a bit of gardening was completed instead (see, I do have some life off the bike!)
16 Couldabeens assembled Tuesday, missing a few essential characters though. Not quite the same without Leon, Daniel, Cougs, Temple and Matt, (Christmas takes it work toll). Patrick returned but struggled to hold on. Noticed a pair chasing us when we turned into Boundary Rd, finally at Archer Rd it was Rabbit & Bart that hooked on. With 3 k to go they'd recovered to take turns, the tempo went hard at Arcadia Downs to prove who was who. (gave a knowing grin to Rob set up the tactics) Spent all my pennies in the final 200 meters to allow the little rocket a brief respite to load his killer final punch. A great win scored, easily disposing of Mick & Bart, leaving us all humbled in our 50+ km/h attempt to stay with him.
I'd envisaged Tuesday nights blustery 30-45k southerly as a precarious bunch ride, so optioned a solo anti-clockwise toaster loop. So hard to hold a straight line, thoughts held out for the relief of tail wind help in Boundary Rd. (the only motivation to beat the head and side wind struggle). Reflected on a 32km ride in 55 minutes achieved in 1972, grateful i can still match it despite the 30+ year tobacco abuse in between. Saw the hospital bunch wrestling with the wind near the emu, happy to be solo tonight rather than dodging other wheels being tossed around. A very hard 15k slog home but relieved to clock 33 for 50k's.
Wednesdays recovery loop was more than welcome (waited for Norm, but he'd missed the start) Cougs and i taking in the tail wind with great pleasure. Good for tired legs to have a restful ride. Newto must have missed the Area 51 start, seen hammering out Old Dookie in a futile attempt to head them off at the pass. Low numbers in this pack recently (a fracture in the faction?)
14 at the Couldabeens on Thursday and only a light southeaster to contend with. A stray stick near the cypress trees in Channel Rd was flicked high in the air off a wheel, landing perfectly atop my helmet with a thud. (me and sticks.....!) Matt, Leon & Daniel still absent with work commitments unfortunately. Graeme made the Mooroopna migration again (a regular attendee now) not long ago full tilt at 30, now driving the engine in the high 30's. Great to witness the Kel & Cougs guns firing at the front, a great team spirit amongst this crew. Rubber stamp a Rocket win again, a regular mid 30's average notched up by all.
Quite windy and quite warm (28 degrees, summer finally here?) on Thursday night, 13 plugged into the 13k ENE to the Emu. Collecting 9 more in our travels, the wind swung to a 20k southerly (just as i scored a second shift at the front with Bomber....mmm, is it penance for something?) 2 or 3 had dissapeared from the pack when we reached Mitchell Rd, at least the side wind gave a chance to draw breath for a yarn with Gools, Axel & Dalton. At the business end of Raftery Rd, Deano worked a mighty shift on the front, waltzing away with the chequered flag. I collared 2nd spot (maxed at 60 mind you) so will need something illegal to do better!
Quite a huddle of FAG's and locker boys near the SPC roundabout early Friday, obviously conspiring to belt out hard and early. The established P&W crew held ranks though, the 5.05's of Ayto, Fox, Hayles, Ruley, Stace & Wizz embedded in the pack. The good old days of chuckle & chat had returned yet a solid speed prevailed. Choppy's humour and the teams' spirit was in abundance, the big fang down Conrod too (35.8average). I was down the back of the bunch at the finish, happy to be surrounded by quick chicks (and a pat on the back by Mo and Eggy for the last k's tow) so missed the podium positions. Legs creaked loudly all morning at work but the head was happy with a great finish to a 417k week burning 15387 calories (3.7kg of Milo) at 32.8 average.
Quote of the week "Winning is about heart, not just legs. It's got to be in the right place"
Lance Armstrong
Friday, December 9, 2011
Week 49
Very tempting to rip up an extra 30 or 40k's when you wake at 4.30 and can't get back to sleep. Got lazy instead, a slow breakfast watching the Thunderbirds! Got to the OC's start early anyway, 9 earlybirds scurrying away at quarter to. A great turn up of 20 for the OC's, missing Coug's cheeky remarks though. Great to have Dave, Hoffy and Barnsey along again, 10 out of 10 for determination. JB back with the Cannondale fresh from service. Shawy didnt even turn a wheel to get a pucture, but in the true team spirit we waited till he'd repaired (but sledged anyway) A 7.04 departure and a southerly to make the first two legs a push (just my luck, my turn to tackle both) Once into Mitchell, youthful exhuberance took the reigns to pace up the pack. Simon having missed the Cat start, was along for a restful lap but was in for a workout. Well driven by Daniel, Kel & Bo, the Boundary Rd section flew by. Norms tail-light hit the deck (well retrieved by Daniel & Temple) the trio catching on near the Ford Rd turn. Forgey & Steve's exhuberance had unwittingly upped the tempo, but all settled quickly to resume the westward journey home. The breeze had swung a bit toward ESE, assisting a little. A few young guns had done a little longer on the front to position themselves ideally for the final thrash (tactics wasted as it happened) and Norm had some high octane left in the tank for the last half k of Wanganui, making lots work hard. Found myself in the box seat for Rudd Rd, Simon lauched in the last 350 but went kaboom soon after hitting the lead. Way too early for me, but i hit the NoS early to shake off an angry swarm of young bees buzzing behind, just holding off Daniel, Bo, Vince and others for the honours. Bo opened volume 37 of the excuse book to be guffawed into submission. Again, a great team ride with all in sight at the finish (improving all the time with a 35 average today) , the Butterfactory ambience and coffee enjoyed by all who could attend. Great to have the seasons warmth on our backs. Saturday nights early xmas get-together also a hoot, great to meet some non-bike partners (long suffering?) and soak up the Jamiesons hospitality.
Quite a wind on Sunday morning howling from the south. Turned up at the lake to find Scott and Trev ready to face the tough stuff. Another rider fronted that i have an intense dislike of (and making veiled threats) so rode away to do a solo lap. Southbound was tough, had trouble getting any speed above 27km/h (wind was gusting from 39 to 56 km/h!) Just when you think you're doing it tough something puts it in perspective. Came across Carol on the TT heading off for Euroa (head wind all the way!) Spied Daniel too, but showing remarkable intelligence heading north! Finally got to Mitchell Rd and turned east. Batten the hatches me heartys, a 10 degree list to starboard to prevent being blown into the tabledrain. (shades of Port Fairy memories) It was Cosmic chaos! Not the day to have 50mm carbon wheels but 34 was just achieveable. Huge relief heading north in Boundary so time to hoist the mainsail for a blast at 60 (where's a 56 / 11 when you want it!) to soak up a tail wind par excellence. Headed for town down Old Dookie, a rewarding coffee and banana toast to compensate the legs for undue suffering and violence. 35 av.
Monday morning the P&W ranks were thin. Only Minto, Frosty, Wizz & Stew to tap out 30. Barely half a k out, Rabbit, Fishy and Bart rolled in from an earlier Channel Rd reccy (u-turned at SPC roundabout and set offf after us). Frosty suffering cronic hibernation syndrome sat on the back, Wizz a bit down on power after a 160 on Saturday, but a good roll around in the mid to high 30's (against the winter like 6 degrees). Spied chopper and Pete H in good form in Boundary Rd. The lockerboys were hurting when they finally caught us in the Mitchell Rd dip (aka; Mt Nicolaci). Got the odd turn out of them, but it was just a pretty fresh Bart prepared to work with me in the final 3 km. There's only one chance when the Rabbit is suffering a little gastric mixo, so wound up to 54 and took a rare win off him and the other young fellas. The 35.3 av beat Cats and train.
A magnificent 24 degree Monday afternoon just begged another lap. The theory of a steady pace lasted about 2km, a push toward the Emu on the toaster loop had the speed up, i-pod motivating with The Weeknd's cruisy tracks. Nice to turn south, but by the Pine Lodge pub, the wind had swung SE. Quite a few rolling about the loop, Rob McL, Jamie and others sneaking out a little secret training. Finding it hard to keep comfortable, getting blown about a bit not helped being a little tender in the tooche (but had plastered on the Lucas' cream for some relief). Turned into a fair slog around but perserverance prevailed, pleased with a solo 33.8, only Conrod straight felt easy. Good to research improving solo times on this circuit over the years, 32 av last year 31.2 the year before, so not slipping backward.......yet.
Decent turn-up of 17 Couldabeens for Tuesday, just 8 degrees though. Gav, Glen, Tim, Glenn G, Goose and the Dawg and others making regular (and welcome) appearances. A fine start by Cougs, allowing muscles to warm with a steady build up to speed, great rhythm for the duration. Visitor Patrick fronted up and fitted quickly into the routine. Matt putting in a solid turn to burn some calories had a whim to give Bo some curry, but got burnt himself on Bo's hot exhaust, demonstrating his award winning half wheel style! No rocket today so Goose stepped up to the plate to take a great win. (off the fine tow of Greendog i should add!) 35.4 average, as has become custom, flogging the train.
More proper summer weather attracted 20 to the hospital group for Tues evening. Good to catch up with Sean, Axle, Nath, Mike, Deeno, Gools, Brendan and the crew after my few weeks away. A steady tap around without any heroics. Scored the front rotating with Jamie, at each turn we copped a head wind without cover. (we must have stood on a black cat under a ladder on the 13th.) A far more favourable run down Mitchell Rd, Nath, Mitch and co keeping the calories burning. Robbo kept many single filing near Arcadia Downs, down to 8 driving the bunch in the closing stages. Stuck with the even money odds on Seans wheel, but Mitch's lethal kick edged Sean back to 2nd. I was happy to settle for 4th with only a 54k top end , but a well positioned Brendan shot by in the last few metres. 36.8 average.
Pressure's off on Wednesday for a well deserved recovery ride. With Norm & Cougs needing similar therapy, we set off out Channel Rd. A sizeable pack of P&W's chirped a good morning in Boundary Rd. Chris suprised us latching onto the back (a change of mind about a Wednesday ride had him chasing us for 10k's!) A helping hand of a tail breeze home, summer slowly making its presence felt with milder temperatures.
Big roll up of 22 Couldabeens for Thursday's mild 14 degrees (but minus Matty). Starting the second leg, Glenn snapped a chain (not even spanner wizard Nath could fix that one on site) so a call to a dedicated partner was made. A sensible warm up for the first few kms helped all. Turned into Boundary and were rounded up by the TT efforts of Bart, Chaddy, Guysy (aero lid looking the part, bike fresh from repairs too) Rabbit & Wizz on a mission. With the wind at our backs speed slowly increased, Goose and the dawg ramping up into the low 40's near the Mitchell Rd chicane. Suprised to see the highway patrol car lurking in the shadows at Euroa Rd (maybe after a few ratbags?) lucky some weren't served a fail to stop. Rounded up Col & Fitzy with 3k to go, 10 strong lads spreading the field out in the closing stages. Rob stamped his sprint authority at the finish, Greeny & Ant made him work for though. 36.5 registered in the brag book.
13 at the library on Thursday night, snowballed to 22 by the turn at the Emu. I had the front with Scott who hammered (half wheeling) the 4.3k first leg, giving me gastrocnemius grief! We were priveliged to be joined by Carla again back from Garmin-Cervelo's europe training (some on cobblestones!) for a family Christmas. Had the bad bouquet of that young chicane again, but blantant hints seems to have kept him away from the business end of the bunch. Nick's firing at a good pace, good to chat with the regulars along the course too. (Did i spy the slender profile of one IronmanAyto in Old Dookie Rd, headed east?) The tempting aroma of a bbq in Boundary Rd was cruel (decided then and there it was steak for dinner tonite!) yet oddly inspirational. Nice smooth turns down Mitchell catching Iggy, Chilly & co on a quiet ride. The speed appraoching Arcadia Downs whittled down those doing turns to just 6 or 7 (lots just sucking off wheels were keen to have a dip at the finish though......mmm, earn your keep boys?) Mitch's horsepower whipped Seans 62km/h on the line, me gasping for oxygen to barely scrape 3rd at a sluggish 57. Great to finish a circuit with lots yarning (and all upright) on the roll back into town, a 36 average earning dinner.
Legs were like lead Friday morning. A gentle roll down to the P&W start (knowning another workout was imminent) where 9 were keen to go. Earlybirds (Guysy, Fox, Fee, Hayles and Ruley) rolled in from their 30k loop to join on, soon after locker lads Bart, Wizz, Fishy and Rabbit did likewise. Much agony endured matching the Princess's horsepower out Old Dookie Rd, relieved when Lloyd rolled across so i could enjoy a draft. A noise akin to a headlight hitting the road and being flattened by a dozen bikes was heard at the bottom of Boundary Rd, in fact a big chunk of barbed wire had tangled in the front wheel of Fee's new TT Merida! Little Miss Composure pulled up safely without incident, but with a lot of scratches to the new rig :-(
The bunch reformed and hit the gas for Mitchell Rd, into the early 40's for much of the way (Kel gets the Oscar for best female in a leading role....clearly, Bo holds her back!) Area 51 had sniffed victory and had caught us just after the Roubaix corner. I was only to happy to let them go! Happy for our guns to stretch away in the last 3k's, i joined the earlybirds to get to the line in smooth mode, though the muscles were screaming to stop for the last 1.5k.A few Cats (including Carla, out again) had reeled us in (with some just having to pass in the closing 100 metres despite an oncoming car) Most pleased with the 36.8 average, hats off to Dutchy's persistance and to all the earlybirds for a fine 65k effort. (Good luck to those on the Canberra half this weekend. An ace cheer squad going too) Wyndham Street filled with nearly 50 bikes from the 3 groups finished a big week.
Week 49 483km 17822 calories (a 22 foot long chicken & salad Subway) 35.1 average
Quote of the week "You don't suffer, kill yourself and take the risks i take just for the money. I love bike racing" Greg LeMond
Quite a wind on Sunday morning howling from the south. Turned up at the lake to find Scott and Trev ready to face the tough stuff. Another rider fronted that i have an intense dislike of (and making veiled threats) so rode away to do a solo lap. Southbound was tough, had trouble getting any speed above 27km/h (wind was gusting from 39 to 56 km/h!) Just when you think you're doing it tough something puts it in perspective. Came across Carol on the TT heading off for Euroa (head wind all the way!) Spied Daniel too, but showing remarkable intelligence heading north! Finally got to Mitchell Rd and turned east. Batten the hatches me heartys, a 10 degree list to starboard to prevent being blown into the tabledrain. (shades of Port Fairy memories) It was Cosmic chaos! Not the day to have 50mm carbon wheels but 34 was just achieveable. Huge relief heading north in Boundary so time to hoist the mainsail for a blast at 60 (where's a 56 / 11 when you want it!) to soak up a tail wind par excellence. Headed for town down Old Dookie, a rewarding coffee and banana toast to compensate the legs for undue suffering and violence. 35 av.
Monday morning the P&W ranks were thin. Only Minto, Frosty, Wizz & Stew to tap out 30. Barely half a k out, Rabbit, Fishy and Bart rolled in from an earlier Channel Rd reccy (u-turned at SPC roundabout and set offf after us). Frosty suffering cronic hibernation syndrome sat on the back, Wizz a bit down on power after a 160 on Saturday, but a good roll around in the mid to high 30's (against the winter like 6 degrees). Spied chopper and Pete H in good form in Boundary Rd. The lockerboys were hurting when they finally caught us in the Mitchell Rd dip (aka; Mt Nicolaci). Got the odd turn out of them, but it was just a pretty fresh Bart prepared to work with me in the final 3 km. There's only one chance when the Rabbit is suffering a little gastric mixo, so wound up to 54 and took a rare win off him and the other young fellas. The 35.3 av beat Cats and train.
A magnificent 24 degree Monday afternoon just begged another lap. The theory of a steady pace lasted about 2km, a push toward the Emu on the toaster loop had the speed up, i-pod motivating with The Weeknd's cruisy tracks. Nice to turn south, but by the Pine Lodge pub, the wind had swung SE. Quite a few rolling about the loop, Rob McL, Jamie and others sneaking out a little secret training. Finding it hard to keep comfortable, getting blown about a bit not helped being a little tender in the tooche (but had plastered on the Lucas' cream for some relief). Turned into a fair slog around but perserverance prevailed, pleased with a solo 33.8, only Conrod straight felt easy. Good to research improving solo times on this circuit over the years, 32 av last year 31.2 the year before, so not slipping backward.......yet.
Decent turn-up of 17 Couldabeens for Tuesday, just 8 degrees though. Gav, Glen, Tim, Glenn G, Goose and the Dawg and others making regular (and welcome) appearances. A fine start by Cougs, allowing muscles to warm with a steady build up to speed, great rhythm for the duration. Visitor Patrick fronted up and fitted quickly into the routine. Matt putting in a solid turn to burn some calories had a whim to give Bo some curry, but got burnt himself on Bo's hot exhaust, demonstrating his award winning half wheel style! No rocket today so Goose stepped up to the plate to take a great win. (off the fine tow of Greendog i should add!) 35.4 average, as has become custom, flogging the train.
More proper summer weather attracted 20 to the hospital group for Tues evening. Good to catch up with Sean, Axle, Nath, Mike, Deeno, Gools, Brendan and the crew after my few weeks away. A steady tap around without any heroics. Scored the front rotating with Jamie, at each turn we copped a head wind without cover. (we must have stood on a black cat under a ladder on the 13th.) A far more favourable run down Mitchell Rd, Nath, Mitch and co keeping the calories burning. Robbo kept many single filing near Arcadia Downs, down to 8 driving the bunch in the closing stages. Stuck with the even money odds on Seans wheel, but Mitch's lethal kick edged Sean back to 2nd. I was happy to settle for 4th with only a 54k top end , but a well positioned Brendan shot by in the last few metres. 36.8 average.
Pressure's off on Wednesday for a well deserved recovery ride. With Norm & Cougs needing similar therapy, we set off out Channel Rd. A sizeable pack of P&W's chirped a good morning in Boundary Rd. Chris suprised us latching onto the back (a change of mind about a Wednesday ride had him chasing us for 10k's!) A helping hand of a tail breeze home, summer slowly making its presence felt with milder temperatures.
Big roll up of 22 Couldabeens for Thursday's mild 14 degrees (but minus Matty). Starting the second leg, Glenn snapped a chain (not even spanner wizard Nath could fix that one on site) so a call to a dedicated partner was made. A sensible warm up for the first few kms helped all. Turned into Boundary and were rounded up by the TT efforts of Bart, Chaddy, Guysy (aero lid looking the part, bike fresh from repairs too) Rabbit & Wizz on a mission. With the wind at our backs speed slowly increased, Goose and the dawg ramping up into the low 40's near the Mitchell Rd chicane. Suprised to see the highway patrol car lurking in the shadows at Euroa Rd (maybe after a few ratbags?) lucky some weren't served a fail to stop. Rounded up Col & Fitzy with 3k to go, 10 strong lads spreading the field out in the closing stages. Rob stamped his sprint authority at the finish, Greeny & Ant made him work for though. 36.5 registered in the brag book.
13 at the library on Thursday night, snowballed to 22 by the turn at the Emu. I had the front with Scott who hammered (half wheeling) the 4.3k first leg, giving me gastrocnemius grief! We were priveliged to be joined by Carla again back from Garmin-Cervelo's europe training (some on cobblestones!) for a family Christmas. Had the bad bouquet of that young chicane again, but blantant hints seems to have kept him away from the business end of the bunch. Nick's firing at a good pace, good to chat with the regulars along the course too. (Did i spy the slender profile of one IronmanAyto in Old Dookie Rd, headed east?) The tempting aroma of a bbq in Boundary Rd was cruel (decided then and there it was steak for dinner tonite!) yet oddly inspirational. Nice smooth turns down Mitchell catching Iggy, Chilly & co on a quiet ride. The speed appraoching Arcadia Downs whittled down those doing turns to just 6 or 7 (lots just sucking off wheels were keen to have a dip at the finish though......mmm, earn your keep boys?) Mitch's horsepower whipped Seans 62km/h on the line, me gasping for oxygen to barely scrape 3rd at a sluggish 57. Great to finish a circuit with lots yarning (and all upright) on the roll back into town, a 36 average earning dinner.
Legs were like lead Friday morning. A gentle roll down to the P&W start (knowning another workout was imminent) where 9 were keen to go. Earlybirds (Guysy, Fox, Fee, Hayles and Ruley) rolled in from their 30k loop to join on, soon after locker lads Bart, Wizz, Fishy and Rabbit did likewise. Much agony endured matching the Princess's horsepower out Old Dookie Rd, relieved when Lloyd rolled across so i could enjoy a draft. A noise akin to a headlight hitting the road and being flattened by a dozen bikes was heard at the bottom of Boundary Rd, in fact a big chunk of barbed wire had tangled in the front wheel of Fee's new TT Merida! Little Miss Composure pulled up safely without incident, but with a lot of scratches to the new rig :-(
The bunch reformed and hit the gas for Mitchell Rd, into the early 40's for much of the way (Kel gets the Oscar for best female in a leading role....clearly, Bo holds her back!) Area 51 had sniffed victory and had caught us just after the Roubaix corner. I was only to happy to let them go! Happy for our guns to stretch away in the last 3k's, i joined the earlybirds to get to the line in smooth mode, though the muscles were screaming to stop for the last 1.5k.A few Cats (including Carla, out again) had reeled us in (with some just having to pass in the closing 100 metres despite an oncoming car) Most pleased with the 36.8 average, hats off to Dutchy's persistance and to all the earlybirds for a fine 65k effort. (Good luck to those on the Canberra half this weekend. An ace cheer squad going too) Wyndham Street filled with nearly 50 bikes from the 3 groups finished a big week.
Week 49 483km 17822 calories (a 22 foot long chicken & salad Subway) 35.1 average
Quote of the week "You don't suffer, kill yourself and take the risks i take just for the money. I love bike racing" Greg LeMond
Friday, December 2, 2011
Week 48
A narrow gap from Bendigo to Yarrawonga visible in the green haze that was the B.O.M. radar for Victoria on Saturday. After Fridays' downpour the urge was strong, so off down the damp road to see who's brave amongst the OC's. Mmmm....just Cougs, Bo, Kel, Graeme, Nev and Shawy to brave the elements. Legend Hoffy had set off earlier, so a carrot had been dangled for us to chase. A fair amount of caution applied for the conditions, particularly on the turns. Cat numbers down noticibly, oncoming in the usual Mitchell Rd spot. Good training with lower numbers in the bunch (barely get three decent turns when attendance is up), a good speed even against a northeasterly. A lone rider near Channel Rd turned out to be JT (slept in?) who joined in for a brief turn. Hoffy was still plugging away well when we finally reeled him in near Hill Rd, dodging puddles the theme of the ride. Nev the grenade, cranked up the effort in Wanganui Rd, the bunch sensibly diving for single file in the attempt to hang on. Bo & Kel had their weet-bix to pursue a respective 2nd and 3rd, the remainder finishing well with a rewarding 34.2 average. The Butterfactory was somewhat deserted with just a couple of other riders there enjoying the caffine fix.
Passed the sms's around for an early Sunday circuit, but i got no takers with sleep-ins and tasks elsewhere occupying most. Unaware that Leon had fronted and set off solo, i rolled out on a reverse P&W lap and came across Ken & his cruisers turning from Archer to Boundary, Temple amongst them. Ken played restrictor valve, pulling the speed back (despite a hefty tailwind) so i played ball for a very calm run up River then Boundary Rds. Concensus dictated a return via Channel Rd (suited with my time limited) and sure enough, Temple & i were hastily elected tow trucks for the 9k head wind leg home! A leisurely lap down for a 30.4.
Eleven had assembled for Mondays P&W lap, great to have Meags back from her UK break. The rabbit, Blighty and Fishy rolled in from an early lap to join on just as we headed out. A moderate north east wind put hard work on the agenda for the pointy end, great to be relieved of front duty after a k's toil. A good head of steam down Boundary, a much more favourable direction. Into the low 40's at the southern end, slowly catching the familiar gait of Choppy. A fair bit of enthusiastic driving on the front had most working overtime in 14 degrees. Rabbit, clearly bored with the pace, rode slowly away half way down Mitchell, Sly setting off to chase soon after. The remaining bunch of 10 kept the roll-overs happening, keeping the pace fresh. By Euroa Rd we'd reeled them in. Tempo continued un-abated, the bunch spread by the Col d'Kialla (well, the little dip in Mitchell) with several gaps opening up. The odd car at Melbourne Rd broke a few of us from the pack (mmm...what happened to team spirit?) but i enjoyed sticking with mates Meags and Cougs for the remainder, a rapid 37.7 result.
20 degrees on Tuesday morning brought out 20 Couldabeens, good to have Nev join us (a rare treat). Lots of cars out and about without headlights, the odd rider (from other groups) too running the gauntlet. A respectful build up of speed up Channel Rd, but 4km in, Vince was on a mission to burn Matt (stretching the friendship of many) That horrible sound of bikes hitting the deck rang out on the turn at Jameson Rd. Unseen by most was a greasy spill from a truck, bringing Trev, Ryan and Trev down. Thankfully, nothing but a minor scrape and a lever adjustment was the total damage. Dusted off and composed, the crew set off on the course but we were now in the Cats sights (500+ metres back) on the turn into Boundary. Good teamwork and smooth rolls kept the Cats at bay. A late call of an oncoming car at the Mitchell turn caused a quick change of direction (and of heart rate!) right on the intersection, but it soon settled into a good rhythm to continue in Mitchell Rd. The swarming bunch of Cats didn't catch till we'd slowed at Euroa Rd. Their crazy decision to pass with a car oncoming caused chaos, the ute off in the grass blasting the horn while they made it 3 and 4 wide will never help our cause for a bit of respect on the road. Finished the lap with a bit in disbelief, thought many of them would have a bit more sense. The rocket played his trump card on Nev in the dying metres to gain the top spot, 36.6 av down near the back of the bunch was worth a cheer. Nice to arrive home safe, and not be plastered across a bull bar from anothers inconsiderate foolery.
It was better than nice to roll out a recovery lap with Chris & Cougs on Wednesday, a very balmy 21 degrees with a strengthening north west breeze. A sensible, well behaved ride, chance for a yarn and a laugh and without incident. More please! Saw a sizeable P&W bunch heading southward, they had the afterburners on apparently, the frontgunners splitting the pack into fractions. Seems the teamwork philosophy is dying a miserable death. A real pity.
Thursday morning saw 10 degrees hacked off Wednesdays temperature, the winter base layer coming out of mothballs again! Mmmm, and it's the first day of summer? 20 Couldabeens again attending, excercising a lot of caution after Tuesdays run of bad luck. Young Nathan came out to play, Greendog and Rob making up a tempo trio. Conversation centred around crashes, cars and Cats, good to reflect on these things though....brings our actions into focus and puts complacency in the bin. New lad Matt was on another mission to hang on, bless his socks for trying (lasted longer, aknowledged more training is needed). Speed was good, lots of chat too despite the chill. At last, an incident free lap to enjoy. Speed was the flavour of the day at Arcadia Downs, Temple providing a good squirt to take us into the 40's. Vince added some urge but cramp took over, Nathan lighting it up with most being clever and tacticle enough to let him burn to death in the closing 500 metres. I had the wheel of Greendog and a keen eye on Rob for his launch, playing the waiting game for Nathans meltdown. Rob fired about 70 out, so i stood hard on it, but 53 km/h couldn't catch Rob in time for the finish. Chuffed with 2nd, delighted the group scored a 36 average, beating the train and the Cats.
Only a few at SPC on Friday, great to have Dutchy giving it a crack again. Good quick chick class attending, Meags, Fee, Cougs and Hayles all worthy additions. Ayto, Scotty, Guysy, Ruley and others arrived from the earlier lap, to join the bunch for a respectful easy speed built up over the first few legs. The gun faction had assembled a kilometre out (must be our deodorant?) and tacked on to make 16. Felt a bit breezy heading south, but the guns were on a mission of pace, up in the high 30's. Admired Fee having a great go on the front in Boundary (despite suffering the headwind), if only all could have that chance without being worked over. Spied Daniel and Temple on the anti-clockwise loop, Peter H solo not long after. A ute approaching behind was obviously inconvenienced by 2 rows of bikes on the left and one (momentarily) on the right, the driver winding down a window to spray a tirade of profanities. A lot gave the appropriate reply but it degenerated to the point of the ute screeching to a halt sideways across the road, bikes gathered near, verbals yelled and fingers stabbed the air in arguement. All so very ugly. Shouldn't have got to that stage, but some have shorter fuses than others, the driver only having grumpy sides to the bed he got out of.
Bit of a ramshackle reform of the bunch a minute or two later, some keen to get home early had bolted, others, delayed in starting, had troubles catching on. Teamwork out the window again. Formed up with Cougs and Meags to head back via Archer, all a bit disillusioned and dissapointed in the circumstances. Grateful to finish a tumultuous week upright and intact. It can only get better from now!
Week #48 313km 11,549 calories (3.8kg of honey) 34km/h average.
Quote of the week "A friend is the person that knows all about you.....and still likes you" Elbert Hubbard
Passed the sms's around for an early Sunday circuit, but i got no takers with sleep-ins and tasks elsewhere occupying most. Unaware that Leon had fronted and set off solo, i rolled out on a reverse P&W lap and came across Ken & his cruisers turning from Archer to Boundary, Temple amongst them. Ken played restrictor valve, pulling the speed back (despite a hefty tailwind) so i played ball for a very calm run up River then Boundary Rds. Concensus dictated a return via Channel Rd (suited with my time limited) and sure enough, Temple & i were hastily elected tow trucks for the 9k head wind leg home! A leisurely lap down for a 30.4.
Eleven had assembled for Mondays P&W lap, great to have Meags back from her UK break. The rabbit, Blighty and Fishy rolled in from an early lap to join on just as we headed out. A moderate north east wind put hard work on the agenda for the pointy end, great to be relieved of front duty after a k's toil. A good head of steam down Boundary, a much more favourable direction. Into the low 40's at the southern end, slowly catching the familiar gait of Choppy. A fair bit of enthusiastic driving on the front had most working overtime in 14 degrees. Rabbit, clearly bored with the pace, rode slowly away half way down Mitchell, Sly setting off to chase soon after. The remaining bunch of 10 kept the roll-overs happening, keeping the pace fresh. By Euroa Rd we'd reeled them in. Tempo continued un-abated, the bunch spread by the Col d'Kialla (well, the little dip in Mitchell) with several gaps opening up. The odd car at Melbourne Rd broke a few of us from the pack (mmm...what happened to team spirit?) but i enjoyed sticking with mates Meags and Cougs for the remainder, a rapid 37.7 result.
20 degrees on Tuesday morning brought out 20 Couldabeens, good to have Nev join us (a rare treat). Lots of cars out and about without headlights, the odd rider (from other groups) too running the gauntlet. A respectful build up of speed up Channel Rd, but 4km in, Vince was on a mission to burn Matt (stretching the friendship of many) That horrible sound of bikes hitting the deck rang out on the turn at Jameson Rd. Unseen by most was a greasy spill from a truck, bringing Trev, Ryan and Trev down. Thankfully, nothing but a minor scrape and a lever adjustment was the total damage. Dusted off and composed, the crew set off on the course but we were now in the Cats sights (500+ metres back) on the turn into Boundary. Good teamwork and smooth rolls kept the Cats at bay. A late call of an oncoming car at the Mitchell turn caused a quick change of direction (and of heart rate!) right on the intersection, but it soon settled into a good rhythm to continue in Mitchell Rd. The swarming bunch of Cats didn't catch till we'd slowed at Euroa Rd. Their crazy decision to pass with a car oncoming caused chaos, the ute off in the grass blasting the horn while they made it 3 and 4 wide will never help our cause for a bit of respect on the road. Finished the lap with a bit in disbelief, thought many of them would have a bit more sense. The rocket played his trump card on Nev in the dying metres to gain the top spot, 36.6 av down near the back of the bunch was worth a cheer. Nice to arrive home safe, and not be plastered across a bull bar from anothers inconsiderate foolery.
It was better than nice to roll out a recovery lap with Chris & Cougs on Wednesday, a very balmy 21 degrees with a strengthening north west breeze. A sensible, well behaved ride, chance for a yarn and a laugh and without incident. More please! Saw a sizeable P&W bunch heading southward, they had the afterburners on apparently, the frontgunners splitting the pack into fractions. Seems the teamwork philosophy is dying a miserable death. A real pity.
Thursday morning saw 10 degrees hacked off Wednesdays temperature, the winter base layer coming out of mothballs again! Mmmm, and it's the first day of summer? 20 Couldabeens again attending, excercising a lot of caution after Tuesdays run of bad luck. Young Nathan came out to play, Greendog and Rob making up a tempo trio. Conversation centred around crashes, cars and Cats, good to reflect on these things though....brings our actions into focus and puts complacency in the bin. New lad Matt was on another mission to hang on, bless his socks for trying (lasted longer, aknowledged more training is needed). Speed was good, lots of chat too despite the chill. At last, an incident free lap to enjoy. Speed was the flavour of the day at Arcadia Downs, Temple providing a good squirt to take us into the 40's. Vince added some urge but cramp took over, Nathan lighting it up with most being clever and tacticle enough to let him burn to death in the closing 500 metres. I had the wheel of Greendog and a keen eye on Rob for his launch, playing the waiting game for Nathans meltdown. Rob fired about 70 out, so i stood hard on it, but 53 km/h couldn't catch Rob in time for the finish. Chuffed with 2nd, delighted the group scored a 36 average, beating the train and the Cats.
Only a few at SPC on Friday, great to have Dutchy giving it a crack again. Good quick chick class attending, Meags, Fee, Cougs and Hayles all worthy additions. Ayto, Scotty, Guysy, Ruley and others arrived from the earlier lap, to join the bunch for a respectful easy speed built up over the first few legs. The gun faction had assembled a kilometre out (must be our deodorant?) and tacked on to make 16. Felt a bit breezy heading south, but the guns were on a mission of pace, up in the high 30's. Admired Fee having a great go on the front in Boundary (despite suffering the headwind), if only all could have that chance without being worked over. Spied Daniel and Temple on the anti-clockwise loop, Peter H solo not long after. A ute approaching behind was obviously inconvenienced by 2 rows of bikes on the left and one (momentarily) on the right, the driver winding down a window to spray a tirade of profanities. A lot gave the appropriate reply but it degenerated to the point of the ute screeching to a halt sideways across the road, bikes gathered near, verbals yelled and fingers stabbed the air in arguement. All so very ugly. Shouldn't have got to that stage, but some have shorter fuses than others, the driver only having grumpy sides to the bed he got out of.
Bit of a ramshackle reform of the bunch a minute or two later, some keen to get home early had bolted, others, delayed in starting, had troubles catching on. Teamwork out the window again. Formed up with Cougs and Meags to head back via Archer, all a bit disillusioned and dissapointed in the circumstances. Grateful to finish a tumultuous week upright and intact. It can only get better from now!
Week #48 313km 11,549 calories (3.8kg of honey) 34km/h average.
Quote of the week "A friend is the person that knows all about you.....and still likes you" Elbert Hubbard
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Week 47
All kitted up ready to roll at 6.15, downing the last of the caffine when the pitter patter upset plans of a Saturday lap. Bugger! Texts shooting backward and forward amongst the troops confirmed a no go. Ten minutes later the shower had subsided and clouds appeared less threatening. Ummed and ahh'd for ages, nearly got the bike ready again, then another shower confirmed the original decision. (seems not so much rain to stop Nick, Barnsey & Keith to brave the elements) A few others skipped the ride, but lured by an addiction to caffine and/or banter (or the magnetic personality of the bunch?!) , joined them for a session at the Butterfactory, the Barnsey & Temple "think tank" in full flight.Dull, grey and windy Sunday morning, so like a strung out junkie needing a fix, set off down the road at 6am to join Temple & Daniel (needing to fulfil 10 am roles at home) for an early OC lap. Concensus on a single file effort with a battle against a 18 - 28 wsw, we took turns for the circuit (Daniel 10% up, clearly on performance enhancing supplements!) Wind favoured in Mitchell & Boundary, but a tough adversary in all other directions. Steve Fairless spied rolling down Boundary was spotted again doing lap 2 when we got to Rudd Rd. All worked hard into the wind heading west, and were rewarded with a 34.7 over the 40k's. I left Temple & Daniel to their domestic deeds, and peeled off at the lake to see who may front. Nick, Danny, Graham, Chris & Ryan braved the chilly breeze (now swinging a bit southwest) for a 45k lap. Again (and in the same direction, just to keep me giddy) the best leg was east and north. THM spied on the TT in Mitchell (the Fairless machine as well, nearing his lap 2 finish) , Miah TT'ing a few k's later. We rounded up a slower group of Mooroopna-ites at the eastern end of Mitchell and plugged on. Again, in Ford Rd, the going was tough, thankfully at a slightly more relaxed pace. Just to inspire, rolling east past Connelly estate was Mr F on lap 3! Back to the Butterfactory for us mortals with 45k @ 32 under the belt, caffine, banana bread, lemon tart and scrambled eggs eagerly ingested. Home with 107 clocked up.
Monday felt like winter revisited. Dragged the 3/4 knicks out of hibernation for the knees to survive 12 degrees. 9 brave souls at the start, great to see Fee back in (conservative) action. Bart waiting up the road after an early 30k leg (Chaddy awol, Minto retreating home without the added P&W circuit, Big Pete waiting further out) A steady & familiar tour, Greendog successful in dragging the Goose along. (welcome back big fella) Good to see Choppy hammering away anti-clockwise, preparing for a return to the bunch i hope. Sly on the TT rolled to the front, his equal 2nd in the Vets aggregate must have frightened Pete to retreat down Archer Rd. Bart & Sly shared a lot of the engine driving, nice for the group to finish together, Sly easing ahead across the line. A 35.5 average thrashed the Melbourne bound train by 6 minutes.
A fine 23 degrees urged a late arvo lap on Monday, specifically instructing myself to tap quietly away on a gentle toaster loop. An easy roll with a light breeze from behind out to the Emu, but enthusiasm had over-ridden logic holding 36 eastbound. Felt the breeze strengthening turning south, i dont know what drives the mind & muscles to hammer out the lap on the pain barrier? The i-pod provided some motivation with the Wombats and Trial Kennedy and pondered Tame Impala's "Solitude is bliss" (it isn't, but the song is.) Turned into Mitchell Rd and found two newborn kittens in the middle of the road! Couldn't help but think they'd been put there (sick people) Earned a humane society cheer placing them out of harms way. Felt the legs would suffer tomorrow but pushed on anyway (contrary to specs imposed on self at the start) a great reward to clock 50 @ 34.1 into a w/sw blowing at 15. Will see what pain tomorrow brings.
Only a couple of degrees warmer than Monday, but felt a lot milder. Sighted the Vince & Steve roadshow on an extra 15. Couldabeens poularity rising with 20 assembled in the carpark. Great to have Matt back again, a self confessed "buffet boy" now needing to shed a bit of ballast? Nev made a welcome return too (divorcing Area 51 for the day, even ditching a lap with Brett for our company!) Big Gav had the turbo wound up (last nights suffering revisited) Bo keen to set fire to Matt as well. Turned into Boundary Rd and a km down the road Trev's light ejected into the weeds. Pace eased for the retrieval, then back on the gas for a belt down Mitchell, steady speed and smooth roll-overs helping all. It was Nev vs Rocket to the finish, Rob's lethal kick winning the day. 36.2 av got us all back with time to spare.
Got ready to roll Tuesday night and noticed a small nail in the rear tyre (amazingly, no pressure lost). A lightning tube change and down to the start with just a minute to spare! 15 rolled out, 10 more hooking on over the next 10k. (unfortunately 2 Ford chicanes tonight) Brendan a bit of a monkey half wheeling, but a long stretch into the headwind whittled him down to behave. Good to chat with Chris, Sean, Jamie & co. So many remarkable people who've turned their lives around a bike. Quite inspiring. Asked the young chicane (politely) to f off for the sprint (in light of last weeks shambles) which seems to have been heeded. Nath, Sly, Chris & Bomber providing lots of kilowatts at Arcadia Downs, the bunch strung out in the last km. Sean's mule-like kick got the chocolates, 36.5 av earning us all dinner.
An early start at work on Wednesday, regrettably missing my favourite recovery ride. Had to travel that way for work and spied Norm, Marion & Chris plugging away like true soldiers, headlights visible from almost 2k's away.
Had no luck sleeping early Thursday, stirring at 3.30, climbing out of the cot at 4, breakfast at 4.10, so (of course) a 35k loop at 4.30! A worthwhile venture for the stunning sunrise, the orange glow in the sky with the moons' massive silvery crescent above. Different to "fly blind", not being able to see the speedo. My favourite gadget the i-phone providing Caribou's Swim album to entertain the ears. Back into town with a 32.2av and in time for a massive grouping of Couldabeens at the startline, a record 22 today. Newbie Matt introduced himself (Trev had suggested he join in) but was struggling to hang on in the 1st leg. He relinquished till fitness allows, the "allstars" team steaming onward and eastward. Great to have the Goose and the Greendawg along, respectful team players despite greater ability. Graeme, usually seen on lake group rides, made the pilgrimage from Mooroopna and little Tom (Tri club) were welcomed aboard. Trev absent (on his NZ trek) but a great team spirit enjoyed in a decent push around the course. Very pleased to see Choppy again, putting the effort in anticlockwise. In conrod straight Goose and the Dawg hit the gas very early (spreading dread in the ranks) but had Mattys' and Robs horsepower to deal with when they'd run low on steam with 100 to go. The rocket took the honours again, i was delighted just to finish 65k's before 7am. A decent 35.8av.
A personal goal for this year was achieved on the roll home, the odometer rolling over 20,000k's five weeks earlier than expected. (18,7 and 18,8 in previous years) I think madness helps!
Lots going on inside the skull lately (not worth elaborating on) , so opted for a quiet toaster lap lateThursday arvo. Big Hilly rolled past effortlessly (training for the Wagga Tri) even had long-time-no-see Silvio hanging on the back for a bit. Young Hayley recovering from a tibia stress fracture (ouch!) was in IMNZ training so happily joined her for the loop. Her puncture repaired in the latter part of Mitchell and a steady tap home wound up an enjoyable 50k's. Good to get those k's under the belt, as Friday morning served up a damp and miserable serve of weather, riding unthinkable.
Week 47 449km 16568 calories (368 pieces of sushi......yuuummmmm!) 34.1 av
Quote of the week "More people should apologise, and more people should accept apologies when sincerely made" Greg LeMond (3 times TdeF winner)
Special runner up quote of the week "What's the use of having a Garmin if you forget to turn the friggin thing on!" Ironman Ayto
Friday, November 18, 2011
Week 46
Saturday was ideal conditions to ride, 14 degrees and barely a puff of wind. Got to the start a bit early, 11 keen for a quiet amble (including Barnsey, blaming secondhand knees). Waited till 7 for the regulars, not dissapointed with 16 of the party faithful attending. Nice to have Forgey, Dave, John B and David B return, a wide-bodied Matt too! Serious work to be done with Nev (on a flash TT rig) and Robbo in the pack, but missing the sarcasm of Temple & Daniel (entered the Kelly Classic) and Marion's sharp wit (at a family wedding). The usual well drilled ride at a fair rate of knots, hats off to Hoffy, Chris and Norm. Oncoming Cats were strewn in tatters across Mitchell Rd, courtesy of Rabbits impatience. A touch faster turning into Boundary Rd, not a lot of talking going on in the high 30's. (I'd guess some would be preoccupied with oxygen intake) Interesting to observe the different styles in riding, from the rock solid smoothness of Norm to Vince's John Wayne stature, and everything in between. Finally to Wanganui Rd (after a long intermission for traffic) the rollovers became far more frequent, much to Bo's dislike! Robbo gentlemanly did lead-out duty, Vince in hot pursuit with Bo & i tagging for position. Dean peeled off forVince with 50 to go, i missed 1st by a tyre, Kel an excellent 3rd. Averages keep climbing, this week a fine 35. The Butterfactory was packed inside and out, good company and coffee a fitting end. Gools informs me Sully is still quite sore after last weeks t-boning, get well soon.
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| #32 South Yarra's Elly Franks |
Had a peek at the 70.3 Triathlon on Sunday, (my self proclaimed rest day) nearly $6M of bikes in the compound! More carbon fibre than an F1 grid. Watched the start of the bike leg, the elite bringing our humble efforts into stark reality. A great effort by the Tri Club to put on such a class act.After a big weekend of Ironman, perhaps there'll only be a few doing a quiet lap with the P&W's on Monday. Ha ha, how wrong! (about as wrong as Berlisconi's future political prospects) 9 had lined up early, Kel. Bo. Leon and Steve from the Couldabeens joined regulars Scotty, Bart, Minto, Cougs and Rabbit, the big fish up the road half a k. A light tail wind assisted outbound on Old Dookie, setting the pace high. There was little let-up in Boundary, even with Rabbit a bit shagged from yesterday. Not a lot of talk at the pointy end, oxygen being used for the blood supply rather than chat. Mitchell Rd passed quickly, Raftery too. Bart took the chocolates capitalising on Rabbits horsepower expenditure the day before. A quiet 30k Monday lap turned into a 38 average. All the way home before i heard the train horn. Another pair of Fortezza Tri-Comp's fitted, only 1800k's before one was assigned to the bin, badly cut from glass. (the other becoming a spare should i have a repeat misfortune) That's 10 tyres for the year to date.
Another big turn-up for the Couldabeens Tuesday. 18 to sing a happy birthday to Steve, now officially over the hill. A muscle friendly gentle build up out Channel Rd, but whacked a big pot hole (not called or pointed to) thankfully not busting a wheel. Great to have Tim back after a hospital reconditioning. Funny to think only 12 months ago this group numbered half a dozen on a great day. Southbound in Boundary Rd when Daniels rear tube (on the bike) had a severe flatulence problem. Mr mechanic Trev to the rescue for a lightning change, Cats passing just as we started off after repairs. Only a k into Mitchell Rd when Daniel punctured again (must love the attention) but waved us on, quite a few against the clock. Apparently there was a third puncture repaired not long after!! Trying to outdo Chris' efforts? Those not under time constraint stayed, but those against time continued. Down to just 10 now, but a fine engine running on strong cylinders. We'd gradually reeled in the bunch of (16) Cats and chose (wisely) to stay at the back while they wound up for Conrod straight. Rob, Glenn and Ryan had a dip at the end, i chose to keep out of harms way of the ragged scatter at the rear. A handy 36.3 average (still craving a gentle lap though!)
Tuesday arvo was a good taste of summer with 30 degrees and a light west- northwest breeze. 16 started at the psychiatric wing of the hospital (how appropriate!) picking up another 10 along the way. Came across Jamie, Axle, Mitch, Gools and a few others slowly building speed a bit beyond the toaster. We all ingested a chemical cocktail at the Boundary Rd orchard courtesy of an active spray pump. I guess we wont be getting codling moth and leaf blotch now! Reached for the bidon to satisfy a thirst, but some fool had left it on the kitchen table hadn't he?! A dry ride tonite. Pace went up and down a bit, proportional to the fitness of who was on the front. Sly motoring along well, recovering quickly from a big stack while racing a few weeks ago. As has become de rigeur, speed bumped up after Melbourne Rd, and just beyond Arcadia Downs many had adopted single file position. Sly had become the solo engine driver, many keen to see him empty the big tank. Young Mitch took line honours, Sean nipping at his heels for 2nd, i just made it past a big battle to take bronze. (again, it took 58.5km/h just for the minor place. Damn these lads are fit!) 37.4 another quick average, grateful to know tomorrows' will be more kind.
Old master Chris was keen to put in a (restrained) Wednesday lap, and despite some dark blue/grey clouds rolled around with Cougs & i. The odd spit from the heavens spelt trouble, but one should make lemonade from lemons, a positive attitude denying what seemed an inevitable drowning. Optimism was soon squashed by reality in Boundary Rd, the spots multiplying rapidly to become a shower. Took pity on the Cats/P&W combined bunch that had passed southbound near the pub, they had extra k's to complete before they got home to dry off. Big sympathies to Ironman Ayto who'd tapped out 65k's in almost constant rain, minus the promised attendance of Princess (doona snuggler!) It's a bit alarming to grab a fistful of brake when back in town, to find them almost non-existant with dripping wet wheels and pads. However, made it home to a most welcome shower and change..
Rolled out to the Couldabeens Thursday morning. Usually see a few Area 51ers heading northward on the way, but this morning Steve & Vince were on another of their magical mystery tours (knocking over early extra km's) 14 were keen to start, quite a few cars about without headlights on in the early hours is alarming. A sensible 1st leg, but someone hadn't seperated Bo & Vince who were quick to battle for supremecy up front. The hot topic was about the cold (11) , and the decision on how much to wear (glad i chose the arm warmers, wished i'd chosen the 3 quarter dacks) Thankfully the bunch was puncture free today. Came across Greendog on an anti-clockwise mission (turns out he'd slept in and missed the start). Glenn G was going great guns, by Arcadia Downs he almost bolted at the front. I went for broke with 400 to go, but all 53km/h did was lead-out the Rocket and Vince (who'd capitalised on the tow, then jumped with 50 left...happy birthday tomorrow Rob, thanks heaps Vince!). Pleased with a 35 average, thrashed the train by 4 minutes too.
Thursday night had 14 front to the Library. Good to see Nick attending for a change, the regulars including Jamie, Dalton, Sean, Bomber, Nath & Trev there to fill the ranks. Picked up the same number again in the travels to the Emu, one being the young Ford mobile chicane! (eagle eyed concentration needed). Steigy, Mitch, Chris & co appeared after the church, pleased i'd remembered the bidon tonite, a steamy 26 degrees with a light north east wind. Gools the last to latch on, we headed south on Boundary then west into Mitchell. A road crew had repaired the Mitchell pot-holes, but had left plenty of loose stones to bring on the caution. A nice steady ride in the mid to high thirties, made enjoyable with the humidity dropping. Crossed Melbourne Rd to have the pungent young chichane go silly out front on some strange mission. 200 later he blew apart and was rounded up and the serious mission of speed was on. The regular drivers did their duty on the front, some chose to sit on at the rear, but Mr Chichane did a spectacular job of heading near the front and exploding, keeping to his namesake, right when the hammer went down! Bomber & Mitch darted left, me and others to the right, but Chris & Birchy had benefitted for the 1, 2, ahead of the melee. Glad to finish 5th and upright, 35.4av and a 54 max.
Observed the Vince & Steve roadshow again in the early hours on my roll out Friday, quite a turn up for the P&Wstart. Lots of Couldabeens there to up the numbers, several P&W's arriving from an earlier 30k sojourn. A few were waiting a km up the road too, more factions than a politcal party lately! I got the 2nd leg with Ayto (and what a lousy draft he is now, like hiding behind a matchstick!) Blighty's new TT Giant most desirable, bargain price too i believe. A halt for traffic (rare) at the Boundary Rd turn, would be nice to see through all the tall grass on the roadside. Good to catch up with Stace, Minto & Chaddy, everyone absorbing a great summers morning. (missing the razor wit of Fee and Meags though). Recent patching at the eastern end of Mitchell was put out as a cautionary reminder, quite a well behaved bunch today and a steady rate of knots too. The last few k's went well (courtesy of Chaddys smooth technique) , a gentle wind up helped Big Pete to cruise across the line 1st. Good to have the team finish close together, beating the train by 9 minutes too! 37.7 a nice end to the week, Ayto's 60k @ 35+ worth a gong.
Week #46 382 km 14,095 calories ; 1409 jellybeans (or 3.5kg) 35.6 km/h average
Quote of the week "All you need in this life is ignorance and confidence, then success is sure" Mark Twain
Friday, November 11, 2011
Week 45
At last there's enough daylight to leave the light kit at home. Not quite warm enough for the summer gear but that will soon come. Saw 11 scurry off 15 minutes early, but 17 joined in for the 7am Saturday ride. Forgey returned to the ranks again (we must be doing something right) but Chris did a sleep-in (tried a dash up Channel Rd to latch on but missed us - chased the tri club ride and held on for a rapid return to town). Cougs set a cracking pace for the first leg, a hint of a south east breeeze the only resistance. A big bunch of cats headed west, our pack well driven by Matty & Daniel in the absence of Bo & Leon (shamefully gone fishing!) Boundary Rd had a favourable zephyr, 38 clicks none too difficult. Umpteen different discussions on the go as i rolled up toward the front, everything from international politics to outright bulls#&t! Masterblaster Nev joined in stealthfully after his Area 51 thrash. Team spirit was considerate after the Numurkah Rd pause, a gentle wind up for all to get on. Quite a bit of deck shuffling in Wanganui Rd, but in Rudd, Nev & Temple were at the business end with 400 to go, and i scored the box seat. Kicked with 80 to go to take the chocolates, aided by Nev gracefully not challenging and the Daniel & Matty artillery being well back. Top effort by Temple and Steve, Marion rounding off the top 10. A mass takeover of the outside tables at the Butterfactory for an enjoyable yarn and coffee. News via the Cats that Sully had been t-boned by a car near McDonalds, apparently some bruising to the ribs, a chunk of skin off and a busted frame. (thankfully home and recovering, bones intact, later that day)
A big dose of summer Sunday morning, 21 degrees had the short gear out. Rolled down to the lake and found Daniel, Chris, Graeme, Temple, Scott and Danny ready to tackle a strengthening northerly. All agreed on a slightly different course than the (worn out?) toaster loop. Out to the Cosgrove quarry and back via New Dookie, Old Dookie and Channel Rd to top off 50k's. Had multiple servings of half wheeling from Scott, quite a sweat worked up too from a warm wind (NNE 17-24). Good to travel a different course, the lads holding a steady 33. Came across the cats northbound in Quarry Rd as we headed south. Back down New Dookie Rd a few were showing signs of wear. Great smooth turns by Chris, Daniel & Temple saved the day for those wanting a breather on the back. The Cats had looped around and were on a chase, but we opted to let them go onward, amused by their random formation. Not far down Channel, we picked up their fallout, Anthony and Simon being uncermoniously spat out the back with Cobble's tempo. Almost home, i copped a beesting on the bridge of the nose (later to inflame the eyelids as a strange botox treatment!). Coffee and yarn spinning distracted.
Mondays P&W lap had low attendance, many tapering for the half ironman. Good to have Kel & Bo join Chaddy, Fee, Marion & Griffo for the circuit. Big Pete & the Rabbit were waiting half a km up, but Mick chose to ride 100m back. 13 degrees felt mild, heading south had some resistance. Shed several tears (no, not Bo's relentless pace) from eyes puffed up by bee yesterday. THM has improved heaps, much training for H.I.M. i'd guess. Fee downplays her performance, but a genuine quick chick she is. The struggle eased a little turning westward but Mitchell is relentlessly long some days. At least there's an earlier sunrise to enjoy the scenery rather than darkness. Bo & Kel exited stage right at Melbourne Rd, hard to sight cars coming in the half light when headlights aren't on. Pace picked up on Roubaix corner (half wheeling was amplified to whole biking unfortunately) the Rabbit ditching his quiet lap to stretch out the bunch for a fast finish. 34.7av too quick for the train, crossing the line with 5 minutes to spare.
Very humid start to Tuesday, 20 degrees at 5.30 with a 14k northeast breeze. The threat of thunderstorms didn't deter 20 Couldabeens fronting for a record attendance. Goose (yesterdays birthday boy) & Greendog (on a flash new Specialised steed) welcomed too. A steady start for leg 1, struggled to level with Steve champing at the bit on leg two. Not many turns out front with such a big roll up. Boundary Rd was Easy Street back in the pack with the wind behind. Nice too in Mitchell. The TT crew made their way past to the howling tune of Wookies carbon disc.(primed for the weekends half ironman) Hats off to Shirms, Guysy, Bart and Rabbit for a respectful & safe pass. Tempo held in the low 40's for most of Mitchell, almost a pity to have Leon, Daniel, Bo & Kel turn off at their respective roads. Good bunch values held after Melbourne Rd, the crew keeping the family together all the way to the finish. A great kick by Rob at the end to take victory, i just held off Ryan for 2nd, Greendog and Goose close behind. 37.2 our best average to date, i was almost to Balaclava Rd before the train very faintly honked!
The days thunderstorms abated by mid afternoon, conditions good for a hospital bunch 42k lap. 10 lined up for the start, another 11 joining in by the 9km mark. Good to see Walshy back in action. The horsepower of Mitch, Killer and Chris picked up the pace at the Emu, i drew the short straw pairing with Mitch for a decent hammering. When breathing restored to normal i had a good yarn with the lads. Interesting to learn of Mike's stent a few years back (new found respect for his efforts). The overcast conditions saved the usual squint into the setting sun, Mitchell Rd getting shorter holding 40. A great 36 average took us to Conrod straight against a light headwind. Couldn't quite match the young legs of Mitch 1st, Sean 2nd and Chris 3rd but 4th was quite palatable. A 36 average was cool too, for a warm night. (clocked 19k for the year on the way home, target within sight now.)
Glad the no-pressure recovery ride had come around again. Another mild morning to roll quietly round. All the familiar sights heading to the start ; the flags atop Autobarn, the bakers car, a regular jogger, the rubbish truck, the broken stubbies! Norm, Marion & Chris were keen to join in the gentle lap, a bit of a northeaster was keen to make Channel Rd some resistance though. An awesome sunrise to view, taking the mind off the breeze. Watched a dozen P&W's heading south on Boundary Rd (condolences to Ryan, no bugger stopped for his puncture) , a big bunch of Cats 5 minutes later. Nice to get the helping hand of tailwind assistance homeward. (legs said thankyou for not being punished)
Have had dramas recently with tyres suffering the shower scene from "Pyscho" on broken glass lining the streets (left picture). Trouble is, grit and more glass find their way into these cuts for more punctures to add to the woes. I've tried all sorts over the past weeks, the best being Selleys shoe glue, worked into a (cleaned) cut with a toothpick and left to cure overnight. (centre pic) The right photo shows the same repaired cut 546km later (no troubles at this site since). Just need something to stop punks hurling stubbies!
Thursday morning was quite damp, and although the sky was clearing at 5.30, i took the soft (and safest) option of a rare sleep-in. Well, till 6.15 anyway. But like a strung-out druggie, the craving to murder a few km's grew stronger through the day. Checked into the library for a 6pm departure, 12 regulars waiting. Walshy & Johnny were dedicated enough to return again, even Vince made the start, just. At nearly every kilometre another one or two joined on, Robbo, the Eggman, Birchy, Steve, Dave, Sprinter, Kev etc., etc., to finally make a train of 27. Just my luck, i inherited the headwind for my turn at the front at Emu corner. A steady tempo remained for the lap, a good car call at the Mitchell turn avoided catastrophy. Most got down to business with 3km to go, touching 50km/h at the last corner. A young kid on a mountain bike (deliberately being a chicane) caused a scatter with 500 to go (thankfully without incident) the youth of Chris & Nathan taking the top two spots, Birchy & Brendan 3rd & 4th. My 58km/h only deserved 5th. (1.19.44 for the 50km made dinner justifyable)
P&W's were popular Friday, an influx of Steve, Vince, Kel, Bo, Leon and Ryan from the Couldabeens to swell the ranks, totalling 26 for the 12 degree lap. Fee was all colour co-ordinated on a TT Merida and got the vote for sharpest looker, good to see Hayley back after a long recovery, resplendant on the Argon. Minto won tough trooper trophy (fractured his hand two weeks back and still belts out the k's without plaster). A supersmooth lead out by the Couldabeens, Rabbit waiting up the road with his posse of earlybirds to hook on the back. Dead animal day today, a small fox flattened near the pigfarm, even a skiddled skippy at the bottom of Boundary Rd! Long time no see lean lad Ayto was hammering the pace with style, a decent & smooth rate held by all for the length of Mitchell. The boost was triggered in the last 2km, i was happy to view progress from the rear, legs refusing to go over 48. No dissapointment though, 36.7 average more than satisfactory to finish another week.
Week 45. 409km 15092 calories (11 family blocks of chocolate or 2.83kgs) 34.9 av.
Quote of the week " Pain is temporary. It may last a minute or an hour or a day or a year, but eventually it will subside and something else will take it's place. If i quit however, it lasts forever". Lance Armstrong.
A big dose of summer Sunday morning, 21 degrees had the short gear out. Rolled down to the lake and found Daniel, Chris, Graeme, Temple, Scott and Danny ready to tackle a strengthening northerly. All agreed on a slightly different course than the (worn out?) toaster loop. Out to the Cosgrove quarry and back via New Dookie, Old Dookie and Channel Rd to top off 50k's. Had multiple servings of half wheeling from Scott, quite a sweat worked up too from a warm wind (NNE 17-24). Good to travel a different course, the lads holding a steady 33. Came across the cats northbound in Quarry Rd as we headed south. Back down New Dookie Rd a few were showing signs of wear. Great smooth turns by Chris, Daniel & Temple saved the day for those wanting a breather on the back. The Cats had looped around and were on a chase, but we opted to let them go onward, amused by their random formation. Not far down Channel, we picked up their fallout, Anthony and Simon being uncermoniously spat out the back with Cobble's tempo. Almost home, i copped a beesting on the bridge of the nose (later to inflame the eyelids as a strange botox treatment!). Coffee and yarn spinning distracted.
Mondays P&W lap had low attendance, many tapering for the half ironman. Good to have Kel & Bo join Chaddy, Fee, Marion & Griffo for the circuit. Big Pete & the Rabbit were waiting half a km up, but Mick chose to ride 100m back. 13 degrees felt mild, heading south had some resistance. Shed several tears (no, not Bo's relentless pace) from eyes puffed up by bee yesterday. THM has improved heaps, much training for H.I.M. i'd guess. Fee downplays her performance, but a genuine quick chick she is. The struggle eased a little turning westward but Mitchell is relentlessly long some days. At least there's an earlier sunrise to enjoy the scenery rather than darkness. Bo & Kel exited stage right at Melbourne Rd, hard to sight cars coming in the half light when headlights aren't on. Pace picked up on Roubaix corner (half wheeling was amplified to whole biking unfortunately) the Rabbit ditching his quiet lap to stretch out the bunch for a fast finish. 34.7av too quick for the train, crossing the line with 5 minutes to spare.
Very humid start to Tuesday, 20 degrees at 5.30 with a 14k northeast breeze. The threat of thunderstorms didn't deter 20 Couldabeens fronting for a record attendance. Goose (yesterdays birthday boy) & Greendog (on a flash new Specialised steed) welcomed too. A steady start for leg 1, struggled to level with Steve champing at the bit on leg two. Not many turns out front with such a big roll up. Boundary Rd was Easy Street back in the pack with the wind behind. Nice too in Mitchell. The TT crew made their way past to the howling tune of Wookies carbon disc.(primed for the weekends half ironman) Hats off to Shirms, Guysy, Bart and Rabbit for a respectful & safe pass. Tempo held in the low 40's for most of Mitchell, almost a pity to have Leon, Daniel, Bo & Kel turn off at their respective roads. Good bunch values held after Melbourne Rd, the crew keeping the family together all the way to the finish. A great kick by Rob at the end to take victory, i just held off Ryan for 2nd, Greendog and Goose close behind. 37.2 our best average to date, i was almost to Balaclava Rd before the train very faintly honked!
The days thunderstorms abated by mid afternoon, conditions good for a hospital bunch 42k lap. 10 lined up for the start, another 11 joining in by the 9km mark. Good to see Walshy back in action. The horsepower of Mitch, Killer and Chris picked up the pace at the Emu, i drew the short straw pairing with Mitch for a decent hammering. When breathing restored to normal i had a good yarn with the lads. Interesting to learn of Mike's stent a few years back (new found respect for his efforts). The overcast conditions saved the usual squint into the setting sun, Mitchell Rd getting shorter holding 40. A great 36 average took us to Conrod straight against a light headwind. Couldn't quite match the young legs of Mitch 1st, Sean 2nd and Chris 3rd but 4th was quite palatable. A 36 average was cool too, for a warm night. (clocked 19k for the year on the way home, target within sight now.)
Glad the no-pressure recovery ride had come around again. Another mild morning to roll quietly round. All the familiar sights heading to the start ; the flags atop Autobarn, the bakers car, a regular jogger, the rubbish truck, the broken stubbies! Norm, Marion & Chris were keen to join in the gentle lap, a bit of a northeaster was keen to make Channel Rd some resistance though. An awesome sunrise to view, taking the mind off the breeze. Watched a dozen P&W's heading south on Boundary Rd (condolences to Ryan, no bugger stopped for his puncture) , a big bunch of Cats 5 minutes later. Nice to get the helping hand of tailwind assistance homeward. (legs said thankyou for not being punished)
Have had dramas recently with tyres suffering the shower scene from "Pyscho" on broken glass lining the streets (left picture). Trouble is, grit and more glass find their way into these cuts for more punctures to add to the woes. I've tried all sorts over the past weeks, the best being Selleys shoe glue, worked into a (cleaned) cut with a toothpick and left to cure overnight. (centre pic) The right photo shows the same repaired cut 546km later (no troubles at this site since). Just need something to stop punks hurling stubbies!
Thursday morning was quite damp, and although the sky was clearing at 5.30, i took the soft (and safest) option of a rare sleep-in. Well, till 6.15 anyway. But like a strung-out druggie, the craving to murder a few km's grew stronger through the day. Checked into the library for a 6pm departure, 12 regulars waiting. Walshy & Johnny were dedicated enough to return again, even Vince made the start, just. At nearly every kilometre another one or two joined on, Robbo, the Eggman, Birchy, Steve, Dave, Sprinter, Kev etc., etc., to finally make a train of 27. Just my luck, i inherited the headwind for my turn at the front at Emu corner. A steady tempo remained for the lap, a good car call at the Mitchell turn avoided catastrophy. Most got down to business with 3km to go, touching 50km/h at the last corner. A young kid on a mountain bike (deliberately being a chicane) caused a scatter with 500 to go (thankfully without incident) the youth of Chris & Nathan taking the top two spots, Birchy & Brendan 3rd & 4th. My 58km/h only deserved 5th. (1.19.44 for the 50km made dinner justifyable)
P&W's were popular Friday, an influx of Steve, Vince, Kel, Bo, Leon and Ryan from the Couldabeens to swell the ranks, totalling 26 for the 12 degree lap. Fee was all colour co-ordinated on a TT Merida and got the vote for sharpest looker, good to see Hayley back after a long recovery, resplendant on the Argon. Minto won tough trooper trophy (fractured his hand two weeks back and still belts out the k's without plaster). A supersmooth lead out by the Couldabeens, Rabbit waiting up the road with his posse of earlybirds to hook on the back. Dead animal day today, a small fox flattened near the pigfarm, even a skiddled skippy at the bottom of Boundary Rd! Long time no see lean lad Ayto was hammering the pace with style, a decent & smooth rate held by all for the length of Mitchell. The boost was triggered in the last 2km, i was happy to view progress from the rear, legs refusing to go over 48. No dissapointment though, 36.7 average more than satisfactory to finish another week.
Week 45. 409km 15092 calories (11 family blocks of chocolate or 2.83kgs) 34.9 av.
Quote of the week " Pain is temporary. It may last a minute or an hour or a day or a year, but eventually it will subside and something else will take it's place. If i quit however, it lasts forever". Lance Armstrong.
Friday, November 4, 2011
Week 44
The forecast rain looked ominously imminent, but something lures us into a ride. Some are drawn by fellowship, others to overdose on achievement, the pursuit of fitness, a few crave victory, some to repair punctures? A humid 17 degrees, yet low clouds filled the sky, just 0.4mm of rain predicted by my favourite <yr.no>. 16 had queued for the OC's, Forgy and Maurie's son on their maiden voyage. Ryan arrived advising Chris was half a km back changing a puncture so the green flag was tucked away momentarily. Rode down to lend moral support (no, he's not the "Messiah" Barnsey, just a very naughty boy!) just as he was completing the task , but a dodgy valve wasn't doing his confidence any favours. The group rolled out southward aided by a light northwesterly, a bunch of 8 non-conformists leaving earlier each week (20 minutes head start this time) Not so many Cats this Saturday, maybe the weather kept a few under their doonas? Bo was keen to monopolise the tailwind up Mitchell Rd and quickly gave Leon the lead when there was wind to tackle in Boundary. He'll keep! Chris's 2nd puncture halted us near River Rd, the 3rd puncture at the Broken bridge and the 4th just after the highway! Would the bunch have enough tubes and CO2 canisters?! Punctures finally fixed, then a light shower dampened enthusiasm a bit more, the thought of coffee now rose to the top of the agenda. A suggested detour down Old Dookie Rd met with approval, but metres from the turn Nick changed the plan spreading mass confusion through the tail end. New Dookie Rd was the reset route, a further light shower making a challenging leg home. Gave the guns up front a chip for the crazy pace through town, slippery roads and Saturday traffic a recipe for disaster. (the earlier group had met with such fate on the slippery Canterbury Ave roundabout, Tony with elbow injuries, another with 'tarmacitis' to the head) Just to top off the ride, i scored a puncture arriving for coffee! A sliver of glass lodging in the (already) cut front tyre. (experimenting with Selleys "shoe glue" to fill these cuts, preventing glass/grit re-enrty, photos next week) Despite the countless pitstops and rain, good coffee & banter afterward. Bike clean-up due again.
A few opted for an early lap Sunday, Daniel, Marion, Temple & Chris taking on an increasingly strengthening southwest wind (18-24km/h) on a Couldabeens circuit. Daniels' tenacious torque was hard to match, i had a real battle in Mitchell Road. Had 20 billion neurons in overload, left hemisphere saying give up, right hemisphere drowning the negatives with dopamine. (weird how the brain can rule) Quite a few other riders out, even the Walrus spotted in Raftery Rd.! Lap finalised, it was great to enjoy a coffee and chat with the crew, the finer points of smooth rotation discussed at length.
Woken by savage southerly winds Monday morning, gusting up to 41km/h. Abandoned ideas of a P&W lap, opting for a solo reverse circuit. (i don't need the cruelty factor of that headwind!) Rolling out Channel Rd the distinct aroma of "eau de blood & bone" in recently worked soil (where once stood an orchard) nearly melted nasal hairs. The side wind shoved the 50mm wheels about, but heaven arrived turning north for a couple of kms in Boundary. Barely an effort to maintain 36+ with the wind behind. Spied tough lads Rabbit, Aka and two Scottys bravely southbound, a fair contingent of cats two kms later. 27km completed at 32.4 was enough.
A special Couldabeens get-together for Melbourne Cup day, the lure of breakfast at the Butterfactory post ride was enough to enthuse 17 starters. A 15-20km/h southerly tested on the first leg, but relief for Mitchell & Boundary Rds. Went back for Lance who'd fallen back at the top of Mitchell rd, but he waved us on after two unsuccessful attempts at holding on. Vince & Rob were relishing the tail wind, touching 46 by the Broken River bridges. The left turn into Ford Rd brought reality back, mid 30's was the pace home. (wind had swung to the SSE @ 24-32 by then) After a brief halt for traffic at Numurkah Rd, the steath bomber Nev arrived quietly on the back of the bunch (straight after a big circuit with Area 51 by the way). The engine drivers bolted quickly, not much thought for those on the back just crossing the road. A hard slog to the finish with the bunch strung out, but a good grouping of the tailenders made the distance to see Rob take the chocolates, Nev 2nd and Daniel 3rd. 34.3 av. A really good get-together at the Butterfactory, lots of hearty breakfasts enjoyed with Norms' (significant) birthday cake for dessert.
Wasn't predicting a big turn-up for the hospital group on a public holiday evening, correct assumption with only 5 waiting. Just back on the bike after a big injury, Matt was happy to sit on, Axel, Jamie & co enjoying the assisting and strengthening SW wind (18-35km/h) heading east. Work was to be done after the emu though, turns became shorter and pace abated. Jamie & i shared the tow truck duties after the toaster, Steve & Chris arriving as back-up in Boundary Rd were most welcomed (but they continued on for a big circuit when we turned at Channel Rd) A pleasant change to roll home without a sprint, keeping the crew together. A 33.6 a far cry from the hurt normally handed out! On the way home a 'thump thump thump' developed in the front tyre, (thought it a lump of tar picked up) but a fractured ply (from last weeks puncture slash) had balooned to render a 1800km tyre useless! About as funny as a Qantas chairmans' payrise.
Looked forward to Wednesdays recovery ride as always. Summer could hurry up though, only 10 degrees for a November morning is a dud deal. Guess we'll be sooking about hot weather before too long.
A whole 1 degree warmer on Thursday morning. 13 Couldabeens set off, Ryan running a few moments late was spotted by the eagle eye of Marion, true team spirit shown by taking a slow build up to let him catch on. Bo had sucummed to a bout of gastro, Rob & Vince more than making up for his absence! A stunning sunrise of orange cloud against a sky going pale from deep blue was worth getting out of bed for. Good to have Gavin & Glenn back on board. Paired with Steve today, a rapidly improving lad in his apprenticeship. Stops for traffic at nearly every intersection didn't impede a good average of 33.7, the rocket showing Vince how to master the sprint finish. Considered and wise words from Temple was a fine conclusion to a fine ride. Train driver finally had us stop at the boom gates.
Great intentions to ride an anticlockwise loop and turn to join the library group on Thursday night. Had covered 9km when a sudden and rapid puncture dashed enthusiasm. A nasty 7mm slash in the sidewall (slowly balooning) prompted a return home to fit a spare tyre. Just completed by 5.55pm and got to Tarcoola by 6, so headed on the usual course, thinking the group would soon catch (maybe by DECA) Looked rearward once or twice heading eastward, but they were some distance back. Passed sprinter Brendan on a slow warm up near Doyles, but still no bunch breathing down my neck. Kept a decent pace up but the 20 odd still hadn't made many inroads into the defecit, so thought it best to make them work really hard for their supper. A rotten SSW breeze (26-35km/h) made the leg to the toaster agony, and Boundary Rd as excessive as James Packers $45,000/day salary. The softies still hadn't caught by the pub, so bit on the bullet and hammered it out. Finally, at Euroa Rd., the bunch caught me. (A reassuring pat on the back from Chris A, Mitch and Robbo.) My tank was bone dry when they hit the loud pedal to 38 and was unceremoniously dropped off the back by 50 metres. Kept going at a fair clip though, catching 3 of the bunch "fallout"after Melbourne Rd. Mike & his mate were keen for a tow, so took them the last 3km (with a squirt to 47 at the finish) for the honour of 3rd last. Nice to scroll up 68km @ 33 in that breeze though.
Creak, ouch & groan when the alarm went off Friday. A slow roll to the P&W start loosened the legs, 15 waiting at SPC. Fi, Chaddy, Dutchy and the pair of Scottys had slogged out an early 35k's to syncronise perfectly as we left. Couldabeens Kel, Leon & Ryan took us the first few k's in fine smooth style. Stew and Grant (missing for months) were valued inclusions (getting in some tri- training me thinks) Last nights brutal SSW was reduced to a puff, the Fishmonger and Choppy happy to play bunch tail-lights. I'm impressed with Jeramy's improved form, polished well from rusty only a few months ago. The big Shirminator put in a brief appearance, but jumped onto the Rabbit & Guysy TT train at the Mitchell chicane. A decent steady pace for the rest of the circuit, very thankful to score Dutchy ahead for a B-double like tow. The weeks' toil tolled in the sprint, 46 was flat chat and not enough to get near the pointy end, but finishing with mates is great reward (Minto took the honours), pleased with a bunch average of 35.6. Crossed the tracks 6 minutes before the train left.
Week 44 ; 431km 15903 calories (144 Powerbar Gels, that's 5.9kg of them!) 32.8 average
Quote of the week "A friend is the person who knows all about you......and still likes you" Elbert Hubbard
A few opted for an early lap Sunday, Daniel, Marion, Temple & Chris taking on an increasingly strengthening southwest wind (18-24km/h) on a Couldabeens circuit. Daniels' tenacious torque was hard to match, i had a real battle in Mitchell Road. Had 20 billion neurons in overload, left hemisphere saying give up, right hemisphere drowning the negatives with dopamine. (weird how the brain can rule) Quite a few other riders out, even the Walrus spotted in Raftery Rd.! Lap finalised, it was great to enjoy a coffee and chat with the crew, the finer points of smooth rotation discussed at length.
Woken by savage southerly winds Monday morning, gusting up to 41km/h. Abandoned ideas of a P&W lap, opting for a solo reverse circuit. (i don't need the cruelty factor of that headwind!) Rolling out Channel Rd the distinct aroma of "eau de blood & bone" in recently worked soil (where once stood an orchard) nearly melted nasal hairs. The side wind shoved the 50mm wheels about, but heaven arrived turning north for a couple of kms in Boundary. Barely an effort to maintain 36+ with the wind behind. Spied tough lads Rabbit, Aka and two Scottys bravely southbound, a fair contingent of cats two kms later. 27km completed at 32.4 was enough.
A special Couldabeens get-together for Melbourne Cup day, the lure of breakfast at the Butterfactory post ride was enough to enthuse 17 starters. A 15-20km/h southerly tested on the first leg, but relief for Mitchell & Boundary Rds. Went back for Lance who'd fallen back at the top of Mitchell rd, but he waved us on after two unsuccessful attempts at holding on. Vince & Rob were relishing the tail wind, touching 46 by the Broken River bridges. The left turn into Ford Rd brought reality back, mid 30's was the pace home. (wind had swung to the SSE @ 24-32 by then) After a brief halt for traffic at Numurkah Rd, the steath bomber Nev arrived quietly on the back of the bunch (straight after a big circuit with Area 51 by the way). The engine drivers bolted quickly, not much thought for those on the back just crossing the road. A hard slog to the finish with the bunch strung out, but a good grouping of the tailenders made the distance to see Rob take the chocolates, Nev 2nd and Daniel 3rd. 34.3 av. A really good get-together at the Butterfactory, lots of hearty breakfasts enjoyed with Norms' (significant) birthday cake for dessert.
Wasn't predicting a big turn-up for the hospital group on a public holiday evening, correct assumption with only 5 waiting. Just back on the bike after a big injury, Matt was happy to sit on, Axel, Jamie & co enjoying the assisting and strengthening SW wind (18-35km/h) heading east. Work was to be done after the emu though, turns became shorter and pace abated. Jamie & i shared the tow truck duties after the toaster, Steve & Chris arriving as back-up in Boundary Rd were most welcomed (but they continued on for a big circuit when we turned at Channel Rd) A pleasant change to roll home without a sprint, keeping the crew together. A 33.6 a far cry from the hurt normally handed out! On the way home a 'thump thump thump' developed in the front tyre, (thought it a lump of tar picked up) but a fractured ply (from last weeks puncture slash) had balooned to render a 1800km tyre useless! About as funny as a Qantas chairmans' payrise.
Looked forward to Wednesdays recovery ride as always. Summer could hurry up though, only 10 degrees for a November morning is a dud deal. Guess we'll be sooking about hot weather before too long.
A whole 1 degree warmer on Thursday morning. 13 Couldabeens set off, Ryan running a few moments late was spotted by the eagle eye of Marion, true team spirit shown by taking a slow build up to let him catch on. Bo had sucummed to a bout of gastro, Rob & Vince more than making up for his absence! A stunning sunrise of orange cloud against a sky going pale from deep blue was worth getting out of bed for. Good to have Gavin & Glenn back on board. Paired with Steve today, a rapidly improving lad in his apprenticeship. Stops for traffic at nearly every intersection didn't impede a good average of 33.7, the rocket showing Vince how to master the sprint finish. Considered and wise words from Temple was a fine conclusion to a fine ride. Train driver finally had us stop at the boom gates.
Great intentions to ride an anticlockwise loop and turn to join the library group on Thursday night. Had covered 9km when a sudden and rapid puncture dashed enthusiasm. A nasty 7mm slash in the sidewall (slowly balooning) prompted a return home to fit a spare tyre. Just completed by 5.55pm and got to Tarcoola by 6, so headed on the usual course, thinking the group would soon catch (maybe by DECA) Looked rearward once or twice heading eastward, but they were some distance back. Passed sprinter Brendan on a slow warm up near Doyles, but still no bunch breathing down my neck. Kept a decent pace up but the 20 odd still hadn't made many inroads into the defecit, so thought it best to make them work really hard for their supper. A rotten SSW breeze (26-35km/h) made the leg to the toaster agony, and Boundary Rd as excessive as James Packers $45,000/day salary. The softies still hadn't caught by the pub, so bit on the bullet and hammered it out. Finally, at Euroa Rd., the bunch caught me. (A reassuring pat on the back from Chris A, Mitch and Robbo.) My tank was bone dry when they hit the loud pedal to 38 and was unceremoniously dropped off the back by 50 metres. Kept going at a fair clip though, catching 3 of the bunch "fallout"after Melbourne Rd. Mike & his mate were keen for a tow, so took them the last 3km (with a squirt to 47 at the finish) for the honour of 3rd last. Nice to scroll up 68km @ 33 in that breeze though.
Creak, ouch & groan when the alarm went off Friday. A slow roll to the P&W start loosened the legs, 15 waiting at SPC. Fi, Chaddy, Dutchy and the pair of Scottys had slogged out an early 35k's to syncronise perfectly as we left. Couldabeens Kel, Leon & Ryan took us the first few k's in fine smooth style. Stew and Grant (missing for months) were valued inclusions (getting in some tri- training me thinks) Last nights brutal SSW was reduced to a puff, the Fishmonger and Choppy happy to play bunch tail-lights. I'm impressed with Jeramy's improved form, polished well from rusty only a few months ago. The big Shirminator put in a brief appearance, but jumped onto the Rabbit & Guysy TT train at the Mitchell chicane. A decent steady pace for the rest of the circuit, very thankful to score Dutchy ahead for a B-double like tow. The weeks' toil tolled in the sprint, 46 was flat chat and not enough to get near the pointy end, but finishing with mates is great reward (Minto took the honours), pleased with a bunch average of 35.6. Crossed the tracks 6 minutes before the train left.
Week 44 ; 431km 15903 calories (144 Powerbar Gels, that's 5.9kg of them!) 32.8 average
Quote of the week "A friend is the person who knows all about you......and still likes you" Elbert Hubbard
Friday, October 28, 2011
Week 43
A big blanket of cloud kept the cold out and the humidity in for Saturday. 14 degrees @ 6.30 is a bit more humane to ride in. Skipped the Thunderbirds and got going a fraction earlier, a slow warm up benefitting groaning legs. A reduced attendance of Couldabeens today, but 16 to start was an ideal bunch size (only 6 crawled away early) and just a puff of 11km/h breeze from the south west. The feline formation headed west in Mitchell Rd (shaken, stirred and stretched to breaking point by Eggy & Carla i'm told) Simon being spat out the back. He u-turned just after our paths crossed, and set about chasing us (for an easier paced lap?) but was still struggling to bridge the half a km gap in Boundary Rd. I dropped back to give him a tow up....only so we could sledge the 'defector'! (seriously....remembered the wise words that 'good riders look back'. Team spirit reigns supreme) Don was on a maiden voyage, chopping turns quite short. Big Andrew mimicked a mobile sauna kitted up in a winter jacket! (admired he, Hoffy, Barnsey etc having a crack at the none-too-lazy pace). Still a hint of southerly resistance on the turn into Ford Rd., Temple & Leon upholding the speed reputation of the missing Kel, Bo, Matt, Daniel, Nev etc. A great even tempo for the rest of the westward leg, i scored the front again with young gun Ryan for the Alp d'eca and the Rudd Rd lead out. Took the speed up slowly, but the rolls went fast. A car up and a car back signalled caution, but they'd cleared with just 70 metres to go. Master tactician Marion had kindly opened the sprint path so i stood on the loud pedal to 54, only just relegating Chris to 3rd & Norm 4th (yes, i should have more respect for the statesmen!). Ryan a fine 2nd. A good get-together for coffee, Simon undoing his 70k effort with an heart stopper egg & bacon sandwich! Rolled home after with a tail breeze, the odometer rolling over 18k for the year to date, a grubby bike therefore treated to a decent clean.
Sunday morning's sleep in was non-existant, waking at 4.30. Blogged for a bit, then the circuit begged. Rolled out a 35k @ 34, spying Rob McLean on a similar but anticlockwise lap. Was intent on a moderate pace but riders ahead came into view, dangling the carrot of a chase. (had uploaded Caribou's Swim remixes which provided great musical motivation....well, for my weird musical tastes). Got back to the lake in time to join the 8 o'clock team for a clockwise 55k toaster loop. An earlier light southerly had swung to a strengthening north easter. Rolled past kiwi Dwight at the golf course who latched on. My version of a "quiet sunday roll" was clearly a hard hit for him, but credit's due for his good go at it. Good company with Bo, Kel, Daniel, Chris, Leon, Graeme, Nick & Scott too. Back in town with a 33.5 av, Daniel plagued by dodgy cleat syndrome, went horizontal arriving for coffee!
Summer almost arrived Monday morning, 18 degrees with a 15-21km/h northerly. That great time of the year to ditch the porridge and welcome back muesli, shave minutes off the preparation time too, just knicks and jersey instead of multiple layers of thermals, arm warmers, base layers and booties etc. 14 P&W's had assembled for the SPC off, me being the unenviable meat in the Shirms / Sly sandwich of rotation. (the big wookie has lost none of his great speed or consideration). The pace kept climbing, particularly after the turn into Boundary's favourable breeze. The torch was set on 'scorch' by River Rd, Chaddy steaming along at 45 stretching us mortals. THM apparently dropped off the back in Mitchell, but Rabbit ,Aka, Chaddy & co were still driving the train in the low 40's. Sly attempted a bold stretch at Archer Rd but was gobbled up with traffic pegging his progress at Melbourne Rd. Great work by Marion, Meags & Dutchy matching the hectic pace all the way to the finish, stoked with a fantastic 38.9km/h average, just 47 minutes to cover the 31km. The train driver would have still been in bed when we rolled over the tracks! Opted for a lazy Monday night, an omen with a few light showers falling after 5.30. Bike stays clean.
Total change of seasons for Tuesday morning. Wind had swung around 180 degrees, blowing at 20-33 km/h. Temperature had almost halved too. So much for packing away the winter kit! 15 Couldabeens had lined up to take the punishment, Vince & Steve doing an early magical mystery tour around the streets. Good smooth turns by the guys and gals, only the last km made easier with the wind behind us. The Rocket took a great win with Ryan 2nd and the Pooch 3rd. A fine 34.5 average.
A mild 20 degrees Tuesday night and 13 had assembled at the hospital, but the SSW wind was now at 30 to 41 km/h. (there'd be some agony tonite). 7 had joined on by Boundary Rd, Leigh, Robbo and Nath kept the bunch fairly silent and the wheels noisy. Got my 2nd turn on the front at the Pine Lodge Pub, damn that wind was tough! Nice guy Chris kept level but there wasn't much to deliver over 34. Rotation quickened down Mitchell in the high 30's and into the low 40's, by Archer Rd I was right out of horsepower so opted just sit on. (thought i'd gone soft .....but the rear tyre had!) 8 guns had stretched away into the distance nearing Arcadia Downs, but found i had 6 hanging on my wheel.! Big thanks to Matty & Bomber, the only ones doing turns to get us home. (Chris had strung out the front group at 53 for the last 2kms i'm told!) The rear tyre had properly deflated by McDonalds (changed out front with the aroma of Big Macs) but happy with the 36.5.
As always, Wednesdays recovery ride was so enjoyable. A light south wester made Boundary Rd great, glad not to be pushing into the breeze heading south. Saw the P&W's steaming along at a good clip, Rabbit & the TT's apparently caught 'em in Mitchell Rd. A lucky escape for Sootie when he tangled with a 4X4 at the Doyles roundabout, a sore elbow, a graze and a slight wheel buckle the only setback. One lucky guysy!
Thursday morning turned ordinary with a puncture on the way to the Couldabeens start. Did the quick change and inflate with a cartidge...only to blow the side out of the second tube! Mmm....cheap tubes about as useful as a Barina at Bathurst. Walked back home and replaced the tube/s, then rolled down to Arcadia Downs to watch the Rocket take out another fine win. Legs greatful i missed the clash of Bo & Vince in the early stages of Channel Rd. but good to catch up on the mornings happenings.
Thursday nights thrash started at the library with 11. Numbers swelled of course the further east we went, by the kennels there was 24. No sign of the promised Vince attendance. A stiffening northeast breeze (@17km/h) made it tough on the front, particularly if someone scored Nathan for a stretching. Leigh made Trev sweat (battle of the bike shops?) in Boundary Rd, Deano making sure Bretty had a workout too. Everyone had free protein supplements courtesy of the insects that filled the warm evening air. Half a dozen had chosen to stay on the rear, but everyone earned their keep in Mitchell Rd at 40+. Vince missed the start (again!) and had massively shortcut the circuit, finally coming into view near Euroa Rd. The harder work started after Melbourne Rd, faster roll-overs directly proportional with speed. Rod dished me up a big fright cutting across (when he expired while rolling up to do a turn) the rest of the deck shuffling a lot in the last km. Finally got a clear path with 150 to go, copped an insect in the eye (most untimely) and stood on the gas for the finish, but Leigh, Mitch and Nath had the length and speed to deal with my paltry 56km/h. Pleased with 4th in light of the ablity and youth ahead. 36.6 average. Someone's bbq in Raftery Rd sent the appetite through the roof, a few pollinating shrubs sent my hayfever likewise.
Heaved at the block & tackle to raise myself out of bed Friday morning. Legs of lead, creaking joints and tired, but the P&W freaky Friday beckoned. 7 tough guns had tackled 35 prior to the start and were waiting at the starting grid. 21 rolled out (into a similar northeaster to last night), nice to see Choppy, Jeramy and 5 Couldabeens in the mix. Scored the hard yakka on the front with the Wizz, hard work at 37 into that breeze. Much nicer turning south with the wind at our backs, Ayto and the Fox demonstrating suburbly smooth engine driving skills (some others should take lessons!). Rabbit (complete with aero hat) bolted after Euroa Rd not to be seen again. Teamwork went a bit shabby with half wheeling and varied pace, but others brought it back into line (momentarily) after Melb Rd. The fishmonger must have shifted into neutral on the front at Arcadia Downs, a generous grab of brake lever to avoid a big shunt. Thankfully all finished upright (couldn't see the placings, 3 quick chicks powering to the finish was far more inspirational) for a 37.7average. Rolling home Minto hit the deck at the RSL corner, something slippery in the bike lane. Bit of bark off the thigh, a hand looked really sore. Big cheers for a good recovery Pete.
Week 43 ; 467km 17,232 calories (15 Big Macs, large fries and large Cokes) 35 average
Quote of the week "Success consists of going from failure to failure - without loss of enthusiasm"
Winston Churchill
Sunday morning's sleep in was non-existant, waking at 4.30. Blogged for a bit, then the circuit begged. Rolled out a 35k @ 34, spying Rob McLean on a similar but anticlockwise lap. Was intent on a moderate pace but riders ahead came into view, dangling the carrot of a chase. (had uploaded Caribou's Swim remixes which provided great musical motivation....well, for my weird musical tastes). Got back to the lake in time to join the 8 o'clock team for a clockwise 55k toaster loop. An earlier light southerly had swung to a strengthening north easter. Rolled past kiwi Dwight at the golf course who latched on. My version of a "quiet sunday roll" was clearly a hard hit for him, but credit's due for his good go at it. Good company with Bo, Kel, Daniel, Chris, Leon, Graeme, Nick & Scott too. Back in town with a 33.5 av, Daniel plagued by dodgy cleat syndrome, went horizontal arriving for coffee!
Summer almost arrived Monday morning, 18 degrees with a 15-21km/h northerly. That great time of the year to ditch the porridge and welcome back muesli, shave minutes off the preparation time too, just knicks and jersey instead of multiple layers of thermals, arm warmers, base layers and booties etc. 14 P&W's had assembled for the SPC off, me being the unenviable meat in the Shirms / Sly sandwich of rotation. (the big wookie has lost none of his great speed or consideration). The pace kept climbing, particularly after the turn into Boundary's favourable breeze. The torch was set on 'scorch' by River Rd, Chaddy steaming along at 45 stretching us mortals. THM apparently dropped off the back in Mitchell, but Rabbit ,Aka, Chaddy & co were still driving the train in the low 40's. Sly attempted a bold stretch at Archer Rd but was gobbled up with traffic pegging his progress at Melbourne Rd. Great work by Marion, Meags & Dutchy matching the hectic pace all the way to the finish, stoked with a fantastic 38.9km/h average, just 47 minutes to cover the 31km. The train driver would have still been in bed when we rolled over the tracks! Opted for a lazy Monday night, an omen with a few light showers falling after 5.30. Bike stays clean.
Total change of seasons for Tuesday morning. Wind had swung around 180 degrees, blowing at 20-33 km/h. Temperature had almost halved too. So much for packing away the winter kit! 15 Couldabeens had lined up to take the punishment, Vince & Steve doing an early magical mystery tour around the streets. Good smooth turns by the guys and gals, only the last km made easier with the wind behind us. The Rocket took a great win with Ryan 2nd and the Pooch 3rd. A fine 34.5 average.
A mild 20 degrees Tuesday night and 13 had assembled at the hospital, but the SSW wind was now at 30 to 41 km/h. (there'd be some agony tonite). 7 had joined on by Boundary Rd, Leigh, Robbo and Nath kept the bunch fairly silent and the wheels noisy. Got my 2nd turn on the front at the Pine Lodge Pub, damn that wind was tough! Nice guy Chris kept level but there wasn't much to deliver over 34. Rotation quickened down Mitchell in the high 30's and into the low 40's, by Archer Rd I was right out of horsepower so opted just sit on. (thought i'd gone soft .....but the rear tyre had!) 8 guns had stretched away into the distance nearing Arcadia Downs, but found i had 6 hanging on my wheel.! Big thanks to Matty & Bomber, the only ones doing turns to get us home. (Chris had strung out the front group at 53 for the last 2kms i'm told!) The rear tyre had properly deflated by McDonalds (changed out front with the aroma of Big Macs) but happy with the 36.5.
As always, Wednesdays recovery ride was so enjoyable. A light south wester made Boundary Rd great, glad not to be pushing into the breeze heading south. Saw the P&W's steaming along at a good clip, Rabbit & the TT's apparently caught 'em in Mitchell Rd. A lucky escape for Sootie when he tangled with a 4X4 at the Doyles roundabout, a sore elbow, a graze and a slight wheel buckle the only setback. One lucky guysy!
Thursday morning turned ordinary with a puncture on the way to the Couldabeens start. Did the quick change and inflate with a cartidge...only to blow the side out of the second tube! Mmm....cheap tubes about as useful as a Barina at Bathurst. Walked back home and replaced the tube/s, then rolled down to Arcadia Downs to watch the Rocket take out another fine win. Legs greatful i missed the clash of Bo & Vince in the early stages of Channel Rd. but good to catch up on the mornings happenings.
Thursday nights thrash started at the library with 11. Numbers swelled of course the further east we went, by the kennels there was 24. No sign of the promised Vince attendance. A stiffening northeast breeze (@17km/h) made it tough on the front, particularly if someone scored Nathan for a stretching. Leigh made Trev sweat (battle of the bike shops?) in Boundary Rd, Deano making sure Bretty had a workout too. Everyone had free protein supplements courtesy of the insects that filled the warm evening air. Half a dozen had chosen to stay on the rear, but everyone earned their keep in Mitchell Rd at 40+. Vince missed the start (again!) and had massively shortcut the circuit, finally coming into view near Euroa Rd. The harder work started after Melbourne Rd, faster roll-overs directly proportional with speed. Rod dished me up a big fright cutting across (when he expired while rolling up to do a turn) the rest of the deck shuffling a lot in the last km. Finally got a clear path with 150 to go, copped an insect in the eye (most untimely) and stood on the gas for the finish, but Leigh, Mitch and Nath had the length and speed to deal with my paltry 56km/h. Pleased with 4th in light of the ablity and youth ahead. 36.6 average. Someone's bbq in Raftery Rd sent the appetite through the roof, a few pollinating shrubs sent my hayfever likewise.
Heaved at the block & tackle to raise myself out of bed Friday morning. Legs of lead, creaking joints and tired, but the P&W freaky Friday beckoned. 7 tough guns had tackled 35 prior to the start and were waiting at the starting grid. 21 rolled out (into a similar northeaster to last night), nice to see Choppy, Jeramy and 5 Couldabeens in the mix. Scored the hard yakka on the front with the Wizz, hard work at 37 into that breeze. Much nicer turning south with the wind at our backs, Ayto and the Fox demonstrating suburbly smooth engine driving skills (some others should take lessons!). Rabbit (complete with aero hat) bolted after Euroa Rd not to be seen again. Teamwork went a bit shabby with half wheeling and varied pace, but others brought it back into line (momentarily) after Melb Rd. The fishmonger must have shifted into neutral on the front at Arcadia Downs, a generous grab of brake lever to avoid a big shunt. Thankfully all finished upright (couldn't see the placings, 3 quick chicks powering to the finish was far more inspirational) for a 37.7average. Rolling home Minto hit the deck at the RSL corner, something slippery in the bike lane. Bit of bark off the thigh, a hand looked really sore. Big cheers for a good recovery Pete.
Week 43 ; 467km 17,232 calories (15 Big Macs, large fries and large Cokes) 35 average
Quote of the week "Success consists of going from failure to failure - without loss of enthusiasm"
Winston Churchill
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