A smaller turn up to Saturdays lap (many excused on other duties, others plainly desserting!) but we were entertained with Dave's exhuberant verbosity (in preparation for a forthcoming role?) and the resulting sledging. Cool again for the 47k, foggy patches to contend with too. Well paced all the way to Karramomus Rd but Andrew dropped his sunnies when we headed into the sunrise. Gave him a tow back to the bunch when he'd retrieved them (undamaged) but Dave's continual yarns were opening up "chat-gaps" in the bunch, Coogs chastising brilliantly. No call for the little branch laying on the Shepp-Euroa Rd, my front wheel becoming a Mavic mulcher, without damage thankfully. Steady mid 30's northward, carving through fog laying over the Broken. By Old Dookie Rd a couple of tanks were emptying but Dave, Bo Kel & Steve were spooled up ready for the sprint. I was content to stay midfield and view a thrash between Dave & Bo for victory, Kel keeping them busy nipping at their heels. A decent 33.7 for the course, hr averaging 126. Some confusion on the course to the Butterfactory when we got to SPC's roundabout, but all eventually organised to enjoy a good yarn, the sunshine's warmth a bonus. Much prophecy with Hoffy over coffee (sorry, couldn't resist) extended the stay, a great start to the weekend.
Plans for a 100+ ride were shelved in the early hours of Sunday morning, light rain showers forced a change of plans, pondered over an extra hours slumber till the front passed. A leisurely breakfast to ensure the damp had passed then off for a toaster loop. Noticed Ruley out on a run and particularly noticed the new (&narrow) roundabout at the golf course (no more sprints to the cemetery). A north-noreast wind at 18 made for a push to the emu, the tacho over 165 all the way as testament. Relief to turn south, and suprised to see a long lost member of the circuit back after a considerable absence....Carol the emu! There were a few riders in the distance to persue, but arriving at the toaster something had clearly gone wrong, all were standing at the side of the road, a touch of wheels has brought a lass down to face plant the asphalt (a bit of bark off a cheek) a bit dazed by the spill. Resumed the course after checking all was in hand, nicer again to be headed east, still in the 150+ bpm's but now in the high 30k's, the 98% relative humidity working up quite a sweat. Eventually into Mitchell Rd I spied a pink spec on the horizon which inspired the continued push, though it was 11k's slogging for me to catch the rider which turned out to be Kylie (out on a stretch of run legs) just after Roubaix corner. A quiet roll into town (whilst Bugs rolled even quieter out) and spoilt myself with coffee and banana toast as reward for the 159bpm/33.4k average.
Wondered who would front for P&W Monday, some taking to the heated pool in preference to the chill on a bike (a few possibly tapering for Port Mac too?) Only the Fox, Meags and Coogs brave enough and tough enough for the elements today. Great company of a pair of quick chicks and the Fox (look up gentleman in the dictionary and you'll find his picture there) for the 30k's, trying to steer clear of the puddles from last nights downpour, navigating the foggy patches too. Steady paced turns by all (a fair collection of cats finally catching us 3 k from home) and a charge by the girls for the line (Coogs by a length) made for a great start to the working week. Monday night off with weather threatening, poor old bike got a long overdue clean.
An icy chill on Tuesday morning (blown straight off an ex-wife?) kept the temperature at 6 (a WNW @ 17 clicks) , a good show of Couldabeens though. No abstentee notes from Daniel, Temple or Vince (is it women and children first?) but a quality field with lots of horsepower from Rocket, young Chris, Steve, Goose and Greeny (tough as nails in short knicks) putting a halt to any form of conversation half way into Channel Rd. Trev mediated a peace treaty to the drivers on the front, a couple of k's off gave many a chance to draw breath (including Trev's guest Trevor) Great to have most of the team still soldiering on in the colder weeks (yes, a less than subtle hint to Matty, Tim and a couple of others to cast off the doona and sprinkle concrete on their porridge) Just past Arcadia Downs when the (early) Cats took a gamble at passing before the blind bend (Keeno preserved commonsense though passing just after with a clear view ahead) Funny how several went kaboom soon after to be rounded up by us, The dawg had jumped on (the pigeon amongst the cats?) taking flight in the feline sprint to steal 2nd. A united Couldabeens finish at 35.2 most satisfactory.
The early arvo rain and it's radar footprint had cleared by 5 (temperature was down to 8) so set forth to the hospital group start. Clock ticked over 6......and not one soul fronted. Just me and my mates tonite! Two choices; I'm mad or they're soft. Chosing answer 2, i set off on a quite fresh 30k, keeping well off the redline at 135. The westerly was still at 18km/h, so preserved a few jelly beans for the leg home. Back down Old Dookie Rd an ominous skyline kept dawdling off the agenda. Back dry with a 32.1 recorded, sniggering at the so called hard lads who were obviously tucked up cosy at home doing their knitting.
Fee had posted a 70k lap for Anzac day, value added with a Friars breakfast following. Who could refuse? Hardly anyone by the great turn-up at the police station. Couldabeens Temple, Daniel, Steve, Bo & Kel joined with P&W's Scotty, Meags, Grasshopper, Minto, THM, Stace, Fee, Ayto, Guysy and Hayles (dual citizenships held by Coogs, Greendawg and me) even Fitzy joined in. Minto & Grasshoper drove a flying Scotsman to Mooroopna and a lot of Toolamba Rd, a more achieveable rate of knots ensued thereafter, the icy 7 degree westerly (@20 with gusts to 32) made the Tat leg tough going. THM with spine levelled to the horizon, Meags serving out the sledges, Hayles total 51kg providing the draft of a matchstick, IronmanAyto dishing up humour in spades, an entertaining holiday on the bike. A relief to turn south in Dhurringile Rd, a better tailwind bonus heading west to Toolamba. The odd pause to reassemble the troops at some intersections, through Toolamba and onward to Union Rd. A nature break for Minto & Grasshopper (encouraging us to press on) was their excuse for a TT pursuit (not sure if Fitzy was aware of their intention) Light mist drove from the west to make Central Kialla Rd a bit miserable, the thoughts of coffee and a cooked breakfast were enough to plug away to the finish. The headwind was back to haunt us in Mitchell Rd, over the highway and onto Raftery Rd several were eager to ramp up the speed, the bunch quickly going indian file in the closing stages. Noticed a couple missing from the pack at Arcadia Downs, backed out to relieve Meags and Coogs of the wind for a tow back to town. 70 done and dusted @ 32.7 Great to enjoy coffee and a ripper 'Veg out' with the crew.
Took a calmer ride option Thursday morning, trying to i.d. 4 bunches in the dark the only pressure till the drive west back to town, Wednesday's westerly still a hangover. The BM into the pits today for a pair of 175 cranks to trial (maybe a little easier leverage than the 170's currently fitted?) Picked up the bike (ha ha, Sly had it on the unacustomed little ring and 25) but didn't get away till late Thursday night, headed out Old Dookie with the idea of catching the bunch on the way back from the toaster. Saw the group turn into Boundary but I was still 1.5k shy of the intersection. Figured a solo run wouldn't hurt and was contemplating a Channel Rd exit, but felt i maybe bridging the gap with tailights a bit closer. The 5mm longer cranks did feel a bit easier (no speedo light to verify the data) to reset the target to River Rd, but wasn't expecting to catch. Just 2k's into River Rd i'd joined the back of the bunch, Steve, Trav & young Liam, Dalton and company on a quieter paced loop. A chance for the hr to settle from a long chase and watch how this 11 year old can ride. The odd streetlight along the course showed a low 30's speed, but the customary acceleration in Raftery wasn't overlooked. It was 40's pointing into Conrod straight, Liam being shown the finer points of a sprint (and led out by dad), kicked in the dip to take a win by a wheel, a 46km/h max quite an achievement. Feeling comfortable with the longer cranks (seat height unchanged) comfortable too with the 33.7/138 average.
Friday's P&W duty had 8 in attendance but Wizz, Grasshopper, Scotty and Jeramy were keen to TT. I got the icing on the cake with 3 quick chicks as company for the regular 30 k. Headed toward the Doyles Rd roundabout to cop a verbal "maggots" sprayed from a passing ute, someone clearly in need of anger management classes (giving way to supercats at the roundabout had apparently delayed him a second or two!) Rolled steadily on to Boundary Rd with Cougs, Meags & Fee (very pretty 'maggots' in my book) then wisely went single file for the remainder, a little resistance southbound, 5 degrees not assisting muscles. Long, strong turns by the girls, eventually a dozen (not-so-super) Cats caught us approaching Central Kialla Rd. Most of the alpha-males didn't bother to give way to Area 51 howling in from the right (to the tune of some choice words from Leigh's brigade) but were quickly dealt a dose of acceleration to shake them off. We quickly rounded up a few that had been ejected from both groups, only Simon able to endure. Finished Conrod straight in the high 30's, a steady 31.7 nice to finish the week on.
Week 17 441 km 15,876 calories (176 Cappiccino's) 32.7km/h average YTD 6783km
"The mind is like the stomach, you should only ask as much as it can digest" Winston Churchill 1874-1965
Friday, April 27, 2012
Friday, April 20, 2012
Week 16
The eastern standard time daylight has been very shortlived, back to the proper headlight to navigate my way to the Peppermill for the 6.30 Saturday departure. A downsized group today (a few absconding to feline endeavours) but quality thankfully prevails, great sledging over last weeks puncture repairs set a humourous beginning. Still feels backward rolling out Raftery (the usual scene of rapid finishes) however a clear and still morning with the sunrise's orange sky inspiring. Seems Ridleys are conquering the earth lately, Kel now trialing one. Keith had switched camps from the later group to trial a run with us, Axel, Nick and Dave returning from brief breaks too. Speed was down a welcomed fraction today (a few over-enthusiastic ones being absent perhaps?) 15 finding things comfortable in the mid 30's. A brief moment of single file for an oncoming car on the skinny section of the Shepp-Euroa Rd, over the East Goulburn main channel, then pour on the pace to stay with Glenn & Axel cranking up the tempo. By the pub things had eased back, Dave throwing around mixed sprint scenarios to confuse the contenders (a defined finish line this week at least!) Democratically all together crossing Central Ave, the wind-up near Dobsons had Dave champing at the bit. He inherited the front with 400 to go with Bo, me and Daniel lined up for the jump (or the crumbs) A moment of hesitation with an oncoming car played my hand, able to pounce to 52 (188bpm) at the last gasp for the chocolates. A great lap for all really, no shame in the 33 average. Coug's smoother & safer route chosen through town for coffee and tall tales, some humourous retribution dealt by Ken for prior pranks (but Foss's folly has barely begun!)
Opened up a big volume of the book of excuses Sunday morning, despite the eyes opening at 4.30. Memories of a flat Friday maybe? The bike stayed on it's stand, hr ticked over at 58, a decadent sleep in till 6.30.
Chose a solitary ride Monday morning, dopamine the drug of choice to purge the ghost of troubles past and maybe to ease the turbulence of struggles present? 9 degrees felt a bit milder at 5.30, certainly peaceful other than the wind noise at (between?) the ears. Just one (courteous) car along Lemnos Cosgrove Rd, then turned down Boundary Rd remembering to "thread the needle" at the edge of the rumble strips. Haven't had the speedo light on lately, there's an interesting mystery about the speed that will either suprise or sadden when light reveals the truth. Good to have that unknown element. Could just make out the red pinpoint of a tailight ahead , 2k's later rounded up Mo on a recovery ride from Echuca's weekend race. He was quick to latch on my wheel for the trip home (funny, a Vespa towing a Veyron) doubts about speed both an advantage and burden. Eyes down approaching the only street light at the end of Channel Rd, pleased to see 37.5. Happy finishing with a 34.5 over the 30, a good yarn with Dave through town and the very welcome slice of raisin toast when home as reward.
Monday arvo's random ride was facing the demons; out Bells / Armstrong Rd, Cosgrove-Caniambo Rd to the Camel Farm and back via New Dookie Rd. 20 degrees was ideal and just a light southerly to contend with. A couple of rabbits caused a moment darting out (a hasty retreat thankfully) in Boundary Rd but the reality of the long unrelenting stretch of Bells & Armstrong Rd took some mental adjustment. Long shadows across the burnt stubbled fields and an orange sky distracted the 11.08 k's of tarmac, narrowing to just 3 metres at the end. (I guess it could have been the similarly straight road out of Balladonia W.A....all 146k of it) A left into Bridge Rd and up to the highway highlighted the councils' engineeering skills of laying bitumen over corrugations, maybe a testament to the cobbles of Roubaix? Deafened by the squauk of galahs and soon after mocked by kookaburras, hung a left at the Camel farm and set sail westward and homeward on New Dookie Rd. About 1.7 million kamikaze insects did their best to uphold the martyrs honour against bike and body (i prefer a better flavour in protein supplements) but happily home with a 32.8 over the 60k's, hr averaging 139.
Vince seems to have run away to join the 51 circus, but 14 turned up for the Couldabeens lap. Goose and Greeny fronted up, bringing along Cranky. Kel, Bo & Steve a little secondhand from weekend racing, Temple too with 200 clocked at the weekend. Cougs missing with a dose of the flu, but Chris recovering from his dose acted as rear gunner. The usual burst of pace near the end of Channel Rd then felt a touch of breeze against us in Boundary. Goose and the Dawg legged it at the dog-leg, stretching away on a TT. Numbers shrunk with the regular departees, Cranky & Chris hanging on the back and only 6 left driving the engine. Just Jason, Temple, Gav & me to fight it out for 2nd. (my totally inadequate 52km/h at 190bpm was merely a lame a tow for Rocket) but a solid ride completed at 35.7. averaging 138bpm.
Encouraging to find 9 at the hospital Tuesday evening (beats last weeks 3) young Nath back from the honeymoon clearly rested and revitalised to thrash us into submission. Steve & Deano replicated the speed to make a rapid journey east, Mitch fuelling the fire too, with smoke from the nearby stubble burn wrecking respiration. A touch of southwesterly was detected from the pigfarms' windsock of aroma, only small variations in speed in Old Dookie and Boundary dependant on who squeezed the accellerator. Some warm and chilly patches felt along the route, having a 4th turn at the front with the ever improving Gools in River Rd. Not the best of calls at Melbourne Rd, splitting the bunch with traffic, but democracy ruled a wait till the bunch reformed. By Arcadia Downs there was a line half a k long, Nath did a monster tow, Mitch the clear winner, Robbo a late charge for position from being snookered, Gools turning up the wick well but Foss could only get 5th at 54 clicks with the tacho at 183. An impressive 37.2 average for the bunch on a cool night, good yarns on the roll home put the icing on the cake.
The usual procession of bunches down Boundary Rd on Wednesday, although it's hard to tell who's who with the sun struggling to get up before 7. An audio check of happy hello's, or the odd grunt, maybe the howl of wheels under stress usually gives the game away. Nev ofetn calls a good morning to confirm it's 51. A good low 30's recovery lap as always, legs appreciating the spice of life that is variety. A concerted effort to keep up the H2O intake this past week has eased the lead legs feeling, though the recommended 2.4 - 4.1 litres/day is a long way off. The H2O falling from the sky put a halt to riding Thursday am or pm, a quieter week wont be out of order.
With a special invite to the much heralded Ayto relaunch, Friday's P&W lap was highly anticipated and not to be missed. Quite a roll up to this epic event, Stace, Nico, Coogs, Grasshopper, Fee, Meags & Fox, Sootie, Hayles, the cream of society, but only missing one person.....Ayto! (Must have relaunched himself under the doona?) Despite the lack of the guest of honour, a good circuit by the crew, picking up Bo, Kel & Fitzy in Boundary Rd, welcoming Greendawg into the fold in Mitchell. Meags unfortunately punctured nearing Arcadia Downs, Fox, Fee and Sootie stopped as pit crew, others (on early starts) kept the wheels in motion. Grasshopper was elected lead-out man for a quick chick battle to the line, Hayles just edging out Coogs for line honours, an even 34 average. A near miss as excitment on the roll through town, a driver (still asleep?) entering Melb Rd from the service lane, stabbing the anchors at the last moment realising we existed nearby (and had right of way). Thanks to Fitzy's alert, week 16 finished safely.
Week 16 345km 12730 calories (254 Teddy Bear biscuits) 33.7km/h average. YTD 6342km
"Better to remain silent and thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt" Abraham Lincoln
1809-1865
Opened up a big volume of the book of excuses Sunday morning, despite the eyes opening at 4.30. Memories of a flat Friday maybe? The bike stayed on it's stand, hr ticked over at 58, a decadent sleep in till 6.30.
Chose a solitary ride Monday morning, dopamine the drug of choice to purge the ghost of troubles past and maybe to ease the turbulence of struggles present? 9 degrees felt a bit milder at 5.30, certainly peaceful other than the wind noise at (between?) the ears. Just one (courteous) car along Lemnos Cosgrove Rd, then turned down Boundary Rd remembering to "thread the needle" at the edge of the rumble strips. Haven't had the speedo light on lately, there's an interesting mystery about the speed that will either suprise or sadden when light reveals the truth. Good to have that unknown element. Could just make out the red pinpoint of a tailight ahead , 2k's later rounded up Mo on a recovery ride from Echuca's weekend race. He was quick to latch on my wheel for the trip home (funny, a Vespa towing a Veyron) doubts about speed both an advantage and burden. Eyes down approaching the only street light at the end of Channel Rd, pleased to see 37.5. Happy finishing with a 34.5 over the 30, a good yarn with Dave through town and the very welcome slice of raisin toast when home as reward.
Monday arvo's random ride was facing the demons; out Bells / Armstrong Rd, Cosgrove-Caniambo Rd to the Camel Farm and back via New Dookie Rd. 20 degrees was ideal and just a light southerly to contend with. A couple of rabbits caused a moment darting out (a hasty retreat thankfully) in Boundary Rd but the reality of the long unrelenting stretch of Bells & Armstrong Rd took some mental adjustment. Long shadows across the burnt stubbled fields and an orange sky distracted the 11.08 k's of tarmac, narrowing to just 3 metres at the end. (I guess it could have been the similarly straight road out of Balladonia W.A....all 146k of it) A left into Bridge Rd and up to the highway highlighted the councils' engineeering skills of laying bitumen over corrugations, maybe a testament to the cobbles of Roubaix? Deafened by the squauk of galahs and soon after mocked by kookaburras, hung a left at the Camel farm and set sail westward and homeward on New Dookie Rd. About 1.7 million kamikaze insects did their best to uphold the martyrs honour against bike and body (i prefer a better flavour in protein supplements) but happily home with a 32.8 over the 60k's, hr averaging 139.
Vince seems to have run away to join the 51 circus, but 14 turned up for the Couldabeens lap. Goose and Greeny fronted up, bringing along Cranky. Kel, Bo & Steve a little secondhand from weekend racing, Temple too with 200 clocked at the weekend. Cougs missing with a dose of the flu, but Chris recovering from his dose acted as rear gunner. The usual burst of pace near the end of Channel Rd then felt a touch of breeze against us in Boundary. Goose and the Dawg legged it at the dog-leg, stretching away on a TT. Numbers shrunk with the regular departees, Cranky & Chris hanging on the back and only 6 left driving the engine. Just Jason, Temple, Gav & me to fight it out for 2nd. (my totally inadequate 52km/h at 190bpm was merely a lame a tow for Rocket) but a solid ride completed at 35.7. averaging 138bpm.
Encouraging to find 9 at the hospital Tuesday evening (beats last weeks 3) young Nath back from the honeymoon clearly rested and revitalised to thrash us into submission. Steve & Deano replicated the speed to make a rapid journey east, Mitch fuelling the fire too, with smoke from the nearby stubble burn wrecking respiration. A touch of southwesterly was detected from the pigfarms' windsock of aroma, only small variations in speed in Old Dookie and Boundary dependant on who squeezed the accellerator. Some warm and chilly patches felt along the route, having a 4th turn at the front with the ever improving Gools in River Rd. Not the best of calls at Melbourne Rd, splitting the bunch with traffic, but democracy ruled a wait till the bunch reformed. By Arcadia Downs there was a line half a k long, Nath did a monster tow, Mitch the clear winner, Robbo a late charge for position from being snookered, Gools turning up the wick well but Foss could only get 5th at 54 clicks with the tacho at 183. An impressive 37.2 average for the bunch on a cool night, good yarns on the roll home put the icing on the cake.
The usual procession of bunches down Boundary Rd on Wednesday, although it's hard to tell who's who with the sun struggling to get up before 7. An audio check of happy hello's, or the odd grunt, maybe the howl of wheels under stress usually gives the game away. Nev ofetn calls a good morning to confirm it's 51. A good low 30's recovery lap as always, legs appreciating the spice of life that is variety. A concerted effort to keep up the H2O intake this past week has eased the lead legs feeling, though the recommended 2.4 - 4.1 litres/day is a long way off. The H2O falling from the sky put a halt to riding Thursday am or pm, a quieter week wont be out of order.
With a special invite to the much heralded Ayto relaunch, Friday's P&W lap was highly anticipated and not to be missed. Quite a roll up to this epic event, Stace, Nico, Coogs, Grasshopper, Fee, Meags & Fox, Sootie, Hayles, the cream of society, but only missing one person.....Ayto! (Must have relaunched himself under the doona?) Despite the lack of the guest of honour, a good circuit by the crew, picking up Bo, Kel & Fitzy in Boundary Rd, welcoming Greendawg into the fold in Mitchell. Meags unfortunately punctured nearing Arcadia Downs, Fox, Fee and Sootie stopped as pit crew, others (on early starts) kept the wheels in motion. Grasshopper was elected lead-out man for a quick chick battle to the line, Hayles just edging out Coogs for line honours, an even 34 average. A near miss as excitment on the roll through town, a driver (still asleep?) entering Melb Rd from the service lane, stabbing the anchors at the last moment realising we existed nearby (and had right of way). Thanks to Fitzy's alert, week 16 finished safely.
Week 16 345km 12730 calories (254 Teddy Bear biscuits) 33.7km/h average. YTD 6342km
"Better to remain silent and thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt" Abraham Lincoln
1809-1865
Friday, April 13, 2012
Week 15
Limited numbers for Easter Saturday, just Cougs, Steve, Temple, Hoffy, Daniel and Glenn G turned up at the Peppermill. 12 degrees and a light southwest wind didn't deter, the team rolled down Raftery but just 2k was covered before a puncture punctuated a pause. The entertainment value was exquisite, Daniel's attempt at repair and C02 operation was subject to much sledging and amusement. Seconds after his fix, Hoffy noticed a similar bindi-i affliction to his rear wheel. More amusement and comedy ensued, at least Hoffy had the fix complete in half Daniels time! An alteration to the agenda with half an hour done on pitstops, the Mitchell-Boundary-Old Dookie route chosen to get us back on track. Rapid progress in Mitchell Rd with the breeze from behind, eyed Daniels chain on a big curve from little ring to little sprocket. Coug's eagle eye spotted Hoffy dropping back in Boundary Rd, the pace quickly eased to unify the team. The wind made for a hard slog homeward in Old Dookie Rd, ideal conditions for Rob to take the chocolates (and for Cougs to grab a crafty win on Stage2 at the 60) 33.8 good for limited numbers. Coffee was great to warm the insides, good to warm up krusty Ken with some sledges too.
Maybe an excess of chocolate on Sunday did it, maybe the urge for a ride did it, either way the eyes opened at 5 on Monday and wouldn't close again. To cure the craving (and to loosen the rusty joints from a day of bike hibernation) I set off for a solo circuit, 9 degrees testing the motivation. The westerly helped on the way out Old Dookie, suprisingly not too difficult on the Boundary Rd leg either, but Mitchell was a chore. At least the serenity did the head some good, burnt some easter eggs off the waist too. A big grin from an approaching rider identified the Goose, stretching the newly aquired Giant TT, Stevo & co half a k behind. Tapped away beyond the dog leg, the distinctive howl behind of singles signalled Goose had u-turned, breaking the solitude for a good yarn on the hiatus homeward. Back into town with a 33.5 average on the speedo, 155 on the HR.
Joined Cougs to take up the invite for a casual roll with the Adams family (backtracking my course to unwind), with Temple, Daniel and Kylie on the guest list too. Quite a turnup of 18 characters, a quiet tempo with the ease of a tailwind making for minimal effort. I always find it difficult to blend comfortably with unacustomed riders, a few were given more space than normal. Some strange and uncalled moves, one dropped un-noticed, and serious surging from two wasn't courting much confidence. Ken, Don, Powelly and others had a convenient shortcut home via Channel Rd, others continued on but the agreed route was a vague issue (a rudderless ship somewhat) Arriving at Old Dookie Rd a few had pointed right toward the toaster (maybe miss-heard by Kylie) a brief moment of confusion ensued, wheels touched and Kylie hit the deck. Thankfully, no injury to bike or body, the bunch agreed to set sail for the toaster (but Cougs and I had decided the safer option was to pair up for a tap toward town. A 30.1 for lap 2, pleased to digest the 65k's over coffee and conversation.
Tuesday mornings fresh 3.8 degrees sorted out the tenacious from the timid. Only 9 were brave to take on temperature and the fresh southwester. Great to have Greendog and the Goose (tough gloveless) along, even Trev toughing it out. Bo & Kel straight off an Easter break jumped in the deep end too. Came across Vince and Steve in Mitchell Rd, heading anti-clockwise from a double puncture in town that denied them a usual start. Rob took line honours in Raftery, great banter amongst the crew over lead-outs too. The 34av respectable for the conditions, train soundly beaten again.
Numbers had really slumped Tuesday night, just Mike, Axel, me and Mark (his anti-clockwise bunch had no starters) to roll out from the hospital. Bomber hooked on in Ford Rd, Dalton joined near Campbells. All the way to the emu before the Olympian and Steigy were reeled in. The southerly had gained strength to 20km/h (gusting to 32) to quieten the conversation, then numbers diminished at Channel Rd with Steve, Mike and Dalton abandoning ship for a short trip to town. Only 4 remained for the River Rd section, (brisk in speed and temperature) even Bomber peeling off at Kialla Central to head home. Axel, Steigy and I went single for the Mitchell and Archer leg, a steady build up into the high 40's for the last k of Archer earned our dinner 33.4k and 139bpm averages in just 12 degrees.
The wind had all but vanished by morning (and so had 6 degrees) for a recovery 25k at 6am. Heading clockwise on the track were Supercats at no-so-super pace, only 4 P&W's (cool yet effervescent as always), and reduced attendance for the regular Cats, with 5 Goats tailing a k back. Winter has certainly arrived in Autumn. Punctured back in town near SPC which dulled the mood, but hot raisin toast and coffee put a grin back.
Winter had arrived with avengance Thursday morning, the thermometer struggled to get half a degree above 3 but 15 Couldabeens were tough enough for a lap. Many had trawled the depths of their cupboards for booties, long knicks and thick gloves but the reality of the temperature was a bit of a struggle. Breathing chilled air, trying to get decent circulation and muscles warm are reminders of winters past, but something drives us to continue on. Daniel's chain strain, Bo climatising from Bianchi to Ridley (and from Shimano to Campag) well, Kel rugged up ski style, Tim having a good dip, all good distraction from the cold. Daniel on a day off went full distance, challenging Rocket in the closing stages but just shy of the horsepower needed for glory. 34.7 a great achievement for somewhat arctic conditions, and many rusty from Easter r&r. Train on holiday with a track re-co underway, but bus beaten.
Just 4 at the library Thursday evening, the dark and cold scaring away the regulars? As always, many were already rolling out the road, half a dozen at DECA, 3 or 4 more by Campbells, finally Brendan & Andrew at the Emu to make up 18. The sun had set and the temperature had sunk to 12 but most found energy to keep the pace and conversation going with some noticably chilly patches to endure on the track, night turned to day with the sprinters headlight (capable of 1600 lumens) rendering most candle-like. A calmer build up in Raftery Rd was kind on cold muscles, but we were well into the mid 40's for the last k. Trav had brought his young son along for the ride, many impressed with him doing several turns up front, keeping great pace, up at the pointy end in the 40's..........and he's just 12 years old! (note Liam's name for future bets) Brendan jumped early for the sprint and paid the price, Mitch taking a well timed win, i just survived for 3rd when many dropped in the closing metres. The 35.2k / 120bpm average and max 51 / 183bpm certainly built an appetite.
Numbers down a lot with the P&W's Friday, just Cougs, Rhino and Grasshopper at the start. Fox, Sootie and Hayles rolled in from an early 30 preparing for Port Mac, only Hayles joining us though, the others choosing a TT. 6 degrees didn't help a very flat feeling (maybe worked a bit hard this week?) and by Channel Rd took a slow shortcut down Channel with legs protesting. Not the most enthused end to the week, perhaps a reminder to ease up a bit?
As a "by the way", the new Shepp Motor Museum is certainly worth a look at some great cars, the bonus is a few awesome 19th century bikes (and a trike) from the amazing Farren collection on display.
Week 15 404km 14,907 calories (106 large potatoes) 32.6km/h average YTD 5994km
"Measure your mind's height by the shade it casts" Robert Browning Hamilton 1812-1889
Maybe an excess of chocolate on Sunday did it, maybe the urge for a ride did it, either way the eyes opened at 5 on Monday and wouldn't close again. To cure the craving (and to loosen the rusty joints from a day of bike hibernation) I set off for a solo circuit, 9 degrees testing the motivation. The westerly helped on the way out Old Dookie, suprisingly not too difficult on the Boundary Rd leg either, but Mitchell was a chore. At least the serenity did the head some good, burnt some easter eggs off the waist too. A big grin from an approaching rider identified the Goose, stretching the newly aquired Giant TT, Stevo & co half a k behind. Tapped away beyond the dog leg, the distinctive howl behind of singles signalled Goose had u-turned, breaking the solitude for a good yarn on the hiatus homeward. Back into town with a 33.5 average on the speedo, 155 on the HR.
Joined Cougs to take up the invite for a casual roll with the Adams family (backtracking my course to unwind), with Temple, Daniel and Kylie on the guest list too. Quite a turnup of 18 characters, a quiet tempo with the ease of a tailwind making for minimal effort. I always find it difficult to blend comfortably with unacustomed riders, a few were given more space than normal. Some strange and uncalled moves, one dropped un-noticed, and serious surging from two wasn't courting much confidence. Ken, Don, Powelly and others had a convenient shortcut home via Channel Rd, others continued on but the agreed route was a vague issue (a rudderless ship somewhat) Arriving at Old Dookie Rd a few had pointed right toward the toaster (maybe miss-heard by Kylie) a brief moment of confusion ensued, wheels touched and Kylie hit the deck. Thankfully, no injury to bike or body, the bunch agreed to set sail for the toaster (but Cougs and I had decided the safer option was to pair up for a tap toward town. A 30.1 for lap 2, pleased to digest the 65k's over coffee and conversation.
Tuesday mornings fresh 3.8 degrees sorted out the tenacious from the timid. Only 9 were brave to take on temperature and the fresh southwester. Great to have Greendog and the Goose (tough gloveless) along, even Trev toughing it out. Bo & Kel straight off an Easter break jumped in the deep end too. Came across Vince and Steve in Mitchell Rd, heading anti-clockwise from a double puncture in town that denied them a usual start. Rob took line honours in Raftery, great banter amongst the crew over lead-outs too. The 34av respectable for the conditions, train soundly beaten again.
Numbers had really slumped Tuesday night, just Mike, Axel, me and Mark (his anti-clockwise bunch had no starters) to roll out from the hospital. Bomber hooked on in Ford Rd, Dalton joined near Campbells. All the way to the emu before the Olympian and Steigy were reeled in. The southerly had gained strength to 20km/h (gusting to 32) to quieten the conversation, then numbers diminished at Channel Rd with Steve, Mike and Dalton abandoning ship for a short trip to town. Only 4 remained for the River Rd section, (brisk in speed and temperature) even Bomber peeling off at Kialla Central to head home. Axel, Steigy and I went single for the Mitchell and Archer leg, a steady build up into the high 40's for the last k of Archer earned our dinner 33.4k and 139bpm averages in just 12 degrees.
The wind had all but vanished by morning (and so had 6 degrees) for a recovery 25k at 6am. Heading clockwise on the track were Supercats at no-so-super pace, only 4 P&W's (cool yet effervescent as always), and reduced attendance for the regular Cats, with 5 Goats tailing a k back. Winter has certainly arrived in Autumn. Punctured back in town near SPC which dulled the mood, but hot raisin toast and coffee put a grin back.
Winter had arrived with avengance Thursday morning, the thermometer struggled to get half a degree above 3 but 15 Couldabeens were tough enough for a lap. Many had trawled the depths of their cupboards for booties, long knicks and thick gloves but the reality of the temperature was a bit of a struggle. Breathing chilled air, trying to get decent circulation and muscles warm are reminders of winters past, but something drives us to continue on. Daniel's chain strain, Bo climatising from Bianchi to Ridley (and from Shimano to Campag) well, Kel rugged up ski style, Tim having a good dip, all good distraction from the cold. Daniel on a day off went full distance, challenging Rocket in the closing stages but just shy of the horsepower needed for glory. 34.7 a great achievement for somewhat arctic conditions, and many rusty from Easter r&r. Train on holiday with a track re-co underway, but bus beaten.
Just 4 at the library Thursday evening, the dark and cold scaring away the regulars? As always, many were already rolling out the road, half a dozen at DECA, 3 or 4 more by Campbells, finally Brendan & Andrew at the Emu to make up 18. The sun had set and the temperature had sunk to 12 but most found energy to keep the pace and conversation going with some noticably chilly patches to endure on the track, night turned to day with the sprinters headlight (capable of 1600 lumens) rendering most candle-like. A calmer build up in Raftery Rd was kind on cold muscles, but we were well into the mid 40's for the last k. Trav had brought his young son along for the ride, many impressed with him doing several turns up front, keeping great pace, up at the pointy end in the 40's..........and he's just 12 years old! (note Liam's name for future bets) Brendan jumped early for the sprint and paid the price, Mitch taking a well timed win, i just survived for 3rd when many dropped in the closing metres. The 35.2k / 120bpm average and max 51 / 183bpm certainly built an appetite.
Numbers down a lot with the P&W's Friday, just Cougs, Rhino and Grasshopper at the start. Fox, Sootie and Hayles rolled in from an early 30 preparing for Port Mac, only Hayles joining us though, the others choosing a TT. 6 degrees didn't help a very flat feeling (maybe worked a bit hard this week?) and by Channel Rd took a slow shortcut down Channel with legs protesting. Not the most enthused end to the week, perhaps a reminder to ease up a bit?
As a "by the way", the new Shepp Motor Museum is certainly worth a look at some great cars, the bonus is a few awesome 19th century bikes (and a trike) from the amazing Farren collection on display.
Week 15 404km 14,907 calories (106 large potatoes) 32.6km/h average YTD 5994km
"Measure your mind's height by the shade it casts" Robert Browning Hamilton 1812-1889
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Week 14
Not me! Elite @ Shepp 70.3 Ironman 2011 i-phone
That bakery aroma gets me every Saturday morning! Of course, hot cross buns are on the menu. A big whiff of diesel from a passing truck shifts the focus, thoughts of daylight at this time next week are encouraging. Down at the Peppermill, Matty is back for an encore, the usual crew fronting for duty for episode 2 of the new circuit. Great to have Norm back, Kylie making up a trio of quick chicks and Simmo's natural break forced a bolt to the start arriving just in time. Barely 400 metres covered before something holes my rear tube, a courteous stop by all for a change with instructions sledged by several. Steve chaperoned workmate Craig along, but a dud knee is called 2k into the ride, u-turning him soon after. With the 5 minute delay in schedule, a keen eye is cast on Archer Rd, the later bunch thankfully stopping to allow our progress. Enjoyed the southerly leg with the light northeast assist, Nev commenting the cadence ying & yang between Daniel & I. A good pace east on Karramomus, super smooth Norm showing the juniors how it's done. The Shepp-Euroa Rd was a little more of a slog into the wind, encouraging words from Nev didn't stop the legs complaining. Vince's weather prediction shaped up as gospel, a short but light shower dampened the road but not the enthusiasm. A cautious turn into Old Dookie, several questioned which finish line was the goal. Chris & Temple poured on the power after Central Ave to take the honours. Bo, Vince and Nev had a sprint too, taking the second stage win (seems the second 90km/h sign is now the favoured line.) A great yarn, coffee and banana toast at the other finish line, joined by our wounded soldier Leon catching up on some social rehab.
An extra hour of snooze overnight (pondered this time last year knocking out 427k in 15 hrs with the dream M2M team) but the eyelids were still on daylight savings time. The wind had turned southerly overnight but had eased a little, I set sail toward Rushworth, head down at 143bpm. (on the invite to join Cougs on her Rushy-Shepp trek) Tapped away toward Tatura, a few solo riders ahead turned to carrots to reel in and pass. Got a bit tougher as the road bent toward the Basin, wasn't excited about climbing the hills either. A perfectly timed Cougs came into view on the first crest, quite the relief u turning for the 35k back, a vanilla slice break at Tat further incentive to tap away at the relentlessly long Basin to Tat leg (nothing to view at Harston btw) . Nice to log a steady 70k in perfect weather, a great change of scenery and distance.
Rolled out a short 25k Monday morning, Princess on a recovery, the TT lads head down-tail up as usual. A chuckle to oneself in Old Dookie Rd spying "Pickles" (the massive and usually barking Rottweiler) sound asleep on the cold ground. Put an appearance in at the bike forum Monday night, a few groups represented for a say in council's 2012-16 strategy. A few good ideas aired (a couple of odd ones too) and a few hopes of some improved conditions in the future (if the consultants don't soak up the entire budget) with the mayor on our table. Just patching a few road chasms would be a start.
Tuesday had 16 Couldabeens for the 30k lap, Rob and Vince missing from the mix, but a quality field to enjoy the mild 18 degrees and favourable northeaster. Bo & Kel took restrained turns, no doubt a little spent after scorching the Vets TT on Sunday, but Daniel kept us awake on the rev-limiter. Chris was Kid Considerate for the duration, a smooth run in Conrod straight (minus the sprint) a pleasant way to clock up another ride. 35.5 stood as proof that smooth tempo works. 138av HR burnt enough to warrant the 2nd course raisin toast.
As always a handful of contenders at the hospital boom gates on Tuesday evening, as always i drew a few turns with Robbo, though torture was off his list thankfully. Other legends and characters were gathered on the trip east, but insects too were unwittingly consumed as a poor substitute for protein. All came prepared with lights for what is now eastern standard time, the olympian and Robbo lighting up the pace after the emu (and taking most of the driving duties from River Rd onward.) In all 17 stayed together (having dropped an unwelcomed passenger) for the lap, now in darkness and temperature dropping. Gools was in great shape at the pointy end of the field in the dying moments with Robbo & Steve still towing most of us. Managed to hold on for 5th with a 36.5 average, the ticker averaging 134 and peaking at 185. (interesting to see averages way higher on solo missions)
Joined Chaddy, Fee, Ryan, Nico, Cougs, Hayles and the Hard Man for a P&W tour on Wednesday. A few had gone the TT discipline, but a quality field tapped around in the mid 30's picking up Bo & Kel at Channel Rd (thus maintaining the standards & quality). Like Tuesday, a welcome change dispensing with a sprint, 33.7 a good result despite having a rare stop for the train. 51 had much drama with their sprint, a dropped chain causing quite a stack, airborne and busted bikes, thankfully injuries no worse than a dislocated shoulder. Princess copped a supersledge from the Eggman on the roll through town, but the ride enjoyed by all.
An early work start on Thursday prevented attendance at the Couldabeens (Glenn & Rob apparently kept rapid tempo on the agenda) so a short 25k a little earlier kept the old creaky bones and muscles reminded of what's required to keep the wheels turning. Felt better heading west than east, 35+ easy to maintain back to town. The odd car driver, clearly half asleep at the wheel, still keeps the wits sharp, pulling out from a give way at the last moment warms up the brakepads and the temper.
Texts were to and fro for a ride Good Friday, choosing the P&W option with Stace, Fee, Rhino, Cougs & Norm to roll out a toaster loop. Good Friday by name, temperature, conditions and company, a great pace by all (but may have to let air out of Rhino's tyres) with some of the smoothest wheels in the business. Lots of others out enjoying the holiday, spotted Kylie on a run, Vince, Goose, Dawg, Steve & co on a hot lap, Rob & 2 Glenns anti clockwise, a sizeable Adams assembly albeit awry, even a gaggle of Gazelles scattered in Mitchell. A great lap of the toaster in 1.26 @32.5 even better to enjoy great company, coffee and breakfast part 2, with a collective donation to the appeal.
Week 14 429km 15,830 calories (351 Felafels) @ 33km/h average. YTD:5593km
"Ability is a poor man's wealth" John Wooden US basketball coach 1910-2010
That bakery aroma gets me every Saturday morning! Of course, hot cross buns are on the menu. A big whiff of diesel from a passing truck shifts the focus, thoughts of daylight at this time next week are encouraging. Down at the Peppermill, Matty is back for an encore, the usual crew fronting for duty for episode 2 of the new circuit. Great to have Norm back, Kylie making up a trio of quick chicks and Simmo's natural break forced a bolt to the start arriving just in time. Barely 400 metres covered before something holes my rear tube, a courteous stop by all for a change with instructions sledged by several. Steve chaperoned workmate Craig along, but a dud knee is called 2k into the ride, u-turning him soon after. With the 5 minute delay in schedule, a keen eye is cast on Archer Rd, the later bunch thankfully stopping to allow our progress. Enjoyed the southerly leg with the light northeast assist, Nev commenting the cadence ying & yang between Daniel & I. A good pace east on Karramomus, super smooth Norm showing the juniors how it's done. The Shepp-Euroa Rd was a little more of a slog into the wind, encouraging words from Nev didn't stop the legs complaining. Vince's weather prediction shaped up as gospel, a short but light shower dampened the road but not the enthusiasm. A cautious turn into Old Dookie, several questioned which finish line was the goal. Chris & Temple poured on the power after Central Ave to take the honours. Bo, Vince and Nev had a sprint too, taking the second stage win (seems the second 90km/h sign is now the favoured line.) A great yarn, coffee and banana toast at the other finish line, joined by our wounded soldier Leon catching up on some social rehab.
An extra hour of snooze overnight (pondered this time last year knocking out 427k in 15 hrs with the dream M2M team) but the eyelids were still on daylight savings time. The wind had turned southerly overnight but had eased a little, I set sail toward Rushworth, head down at 143bpm. (on the invite to join Cougs on her Rushy-Shepp trek) Tapped away toward Tatura, a few solo riders ahead turned to carrots to reel in and pass. Got a bit tougher as the road bent toward the Basin, wasn't excited about climbing the hills either. A perfectly timed Cougs came into view on the first crest, quite the relief u turning for the 35k back, a vanilla slice break at Tat further incentive to tap away at the relentlessly long Basin to Tat leg (nothing to view at Harston btw) . Nice to log a steady 70k in perfect weather, a great change of scenery and distance.
Rolled out a short 25k Monday morning, Princess on a recovery, the TT lads head down-tail up as usual. A chuckle to oneself in Old Dookie Rd spying "Pickles" (the massive and usually barking Rottweiler) sound asleep on the cold ground. Put an appearance in at the bike forum Monday night, a few groups represented for a say in council's 2012-16 strategy. A few good ideas aired (a couple of odd ones too) and a few hopes of some improved conditions in the future (if the consultants don't soak up the entire budget) with the mayor on our table. Just patching a few road chasms would be a start.
Tuesday had 16 Couldabeens for the 30k lap, Rob and Vince missing from the mix, but a quality field to enjoy the mild 18 degrees and favourable northeaster. Bo & Kel took restrained turns, no doubt a little spent after scorching the Vets TT on Sunday, but Daniel kept us awake on the rev-limiter. Chris was Kid Considerate for the duration, a smooth run in Conrod straight (minus the sprint) a pleasant way to clock up another ride. 35.5 stood as proof that smooth tempo works. 138av HR burnt enough to warrant the 2nd course raisin toast.
As always a handful of contenders at the hospital boom gates on Tuesday evening, as always i drew a few turns with Robbo, though torture was off his list thankfully. Other legends and characters were gathered on the trip east, but insects too were unwittingly consumed as a poor substitute for protein. All came prepared with lights for what is now eastern standard time, the olympian and Robbo lighting up the pace after the emu (and taking most of the driving duties from River Rd onward.) In all 17 stayed together (having dropped an unwelcomed passenger) for the lap, now in darkness and temperature dropping. Gools was in great shape at the pointy end of the field in the dying moments with Robbo & Steve still towing most of us. Managed to hold on for 5th with a 36.5 average, the ticker averaging 134 and peaking at 185. (interesting to see averages way higher on solo missions)
Joined Chaddy, Fee, Ryan, Nico, Cougs, Hayles and the Hard Man for a P&W tour on Wednesday. A few had gone the TT discipline, but a quality field tapped around in the mid 30's picking up Bo & Kel at Channel Rd (thus maintaining the standards & quality). Like Tuesday, a welcome change dispensing with a sprint, 33.7 a good result despite having a rare stop for the train. 51 had much drama with their sprint, a dropped chain causing quite a stack, airborne and busted bikes, thankfully injuries no worse than a dislocated shoulder. Princess copped a supersledge from the Eggman on the roll through town, but the ride enjoyed by all.
An early work start on Thursday prevented attendance at the Couldabeens (Glenn & Rob apparently kept rapid tempo on the agenda) so a short 25k a little earlier kept the old creaky bones and muscles reminded of what's required to keep the wheels turning. Felt better heading west than east, 35+ easy to maintain back to town. The odd car driver, clearly half asleep at the wheel, still keeps the wits sharp, pulling out from a give way at the last moment warms up the brakepads and the temper.
Texts were to and fro for a ride Good Friday, choosing the P&W option with Stace, Fee, Rhino, Cougs & Norm to roll out a toaster loop. Good Friday by name, temperature, conditions and company, a great pace by all (but may have to let air out of Rhino's tyres) with some of the smoothest wheels in the business. Lots of others out enjoying the holiday, spotted Kylie on a run, Vince, Goose, Dawg, Steve & co on a hot lap, Rob & 2 Glenns anti clockwise, a sizeable Adams assembly albeit awry, even a gaggle of Gazelles scattered in Mitchell. A great lap of the toaster in 1.26 @32.5 even better to enjoy great company, coffee and breakfast part 2, with a collective donation to the appeal.
Week 14 429km 15,830 calories (351 Felafels) @ 33km/h average. YTD:5593km
"Ability is a poor man's wealth" John Wooden US basketball coach 1910-2010
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