It was the year of the Boston bomb, the Rana plaza collapse, the Oklahoma tornado, the runaway Qebec train, typhoon Haiyan, Sarin attacks in Damascus, the Higgs boson Nobel prize, Soverieign Borders policy, the US Fiscal Cliff, Edward Snowden spying and NSW bushfires. We saw Julia then Kevin go, Tony arrive, Benedict out then Francis in, Prince George born and Morsi deposed. We lost Ronnie Biggs, Margaret Thatcher, Lee Rigby and Nelson Mandela.
Another year over and a new one just begun said Mr Lennon. 2013 has passed fast, seems the years accelerate a bit more every year. I can't rely on a poor memory, the habit of keeping a bike diary recalls many moments otherwise destined to oblivion. Yes, it may be a bit too number nerdy, but it keeps things positive to look back at where you've come from. (despite the rare and miniscule increases in performance)
It took 2 Vredesteins, 4 Michelins, 5 tubes, 3 chains and 2 services to get through the year. (only 8 punctures) Travels included a Tour de Pub, a Cat lap, a Fruitloop, a Breakaway ride, a Fryers to Flinders, 2 Dookie circuits, 2 Ardmona loops, 2 Camel laps, 3 Kyabram courses, 3 goes at the 7 (or is it 21?) bridges, 3 laps with Wozza, 3 Rushworth rides, 16 with the P&W's, 21 short (solo) circuits, 24 with the Library bunch, 26 solo Toaster laps, 31 Kialla Couldabeens, 34 with the Hospital bunch, 48 Saturday circuits, 61 Tues/Thurs Couldabeens blasts and 89 laps with long time bike buddy Cougar. 21 rides were at 2 degrees or below, just 6 were over 30, several frosts and lots of wind (one at 56km/h) tested the resolve. 31 rides were rain abandoned, 3 from being crook. Guinea fowl, rabbits, dogs and monkeys (driving cars) kept our wits sharp, I bit the dust once, Mike had a Tuesday night stack, Jamie a Thursday night gymnastic prang and June 7 claimed many injuries with 51. My October challenge chalked up 1613k's, I turned up to a Library bunch of one (me) in September, the bike turned 9 years old, I lost count of the coffee and banana toast consumption and I was pretty chuffed to clock a Fryers to Flinders (173km) in 5:02:09.
The years' 18,028 km burned up 414,318 calories, the equivalent of a rather large Christmas dinner ;
100kg of roast turkey, 50kg of leg ham, 30kg of roast beef, 50kg of roast chicken, 5 kg of garlic prawns, 40 large roast potatoes, 25kg of baked pumpkin, 20 roast carrots, 10kg of beans and a 14kg plum pudding with 4 litres of custard, and one wafer thin chocolate mint, all washed down with 12 bottles of red. Buurrrpp.....
But the important data is thanks. Thanks guys and girls for all for the advice, the stories, the tows, the waves, the experiences, the support, the laughs and the friendship. Far more important than the numbers. Might just do it all again next year............
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Thursday, December 26, 2013
Week 52: Jack attacks and paying penance
A most civilised start to a weekend, breakfast al fresco in a perfect 17 degree atmostphere, watching an Euskaltel orange dawn and contemplating the weekend ahead. Headed south to the start line, collecting Wozza en-route. A big turn out in festive spirit, maybe to burn some calories before the Christmas carbo loading session? PistolPete, Trav, Cougar, Jase, Shorty, Nick, Pom, Rocket, HBK, WhisperingJack, Supermario, BigMat, FujiTrev, AvantiTrev and a suprise (and most welcomed) inclusion of Tommygun and Weapon to the ranks. The constabulary were out in force on a nearby mission, WhisperingJack on a mission of force at the front of our pack, dragging Wozza unwittingly into a half wheeled battle. The mad rush settled soon after when I drew the short straw of a shift at the front with Pistol into the southerly, then intermission was called when AvantiTrev punctured just before the Cypress trees. (nobody to assist him change the tube but he winds up doing almost everyone else's) Underway soon after, speed restrictions were relaxed with a tailwind in Boundary (Trev's Christmas bonus?) adding Smuggler to the pack on the leg to Old Dookie, but losing BigMat on his early exit for family travels. A long line traversed to the toaster and enjoyed an easy breeze to the Emu. No evidence of Cats on our pilgrimage back to town (they'd avoided recent reseals of Ford by diverting via New Dookie) but WhisperingJack picked up the entertainment with another squirt at the front to silence most talk (no fines issued though). Ford Rd's reseal was quite bearable, just a few loose stones to keep clear of, so onward it was to Wanganui & Rudd, back to base via the Boulevard for a festive conversation of beards, cctv and police raids, Lemontree service back to normal but a defiant smoker spoilt the atmostphere.
Festive festivities occupied Sunday keeping the bike stabled, welcomed rain spoilt chances of a Monday morning fix. Christmas Eve's morning entourage was encouraging with a Couldabeens team of Temple, Trav, Nick, Shorty, Cougar, Rocket, Jase, Pom, HBK, WhisperingJack, FeltMat, BigMat, AvantiTrev, FujiTrev and PistolPete, many with tinsel, baubels, Santa hats etc to get into the spirit, BigMat one step ahead with carols on bluetooth speaker. Ange had been a last minute inclusion, delayed by puncture to a 51 appointment. Yuletide aerodynamics didn't hamper plenty of pace out Channel Rd, arriving at Boundary to give way to a small band of P&W's bearing south. We'd persued and passed them by the bridges, HWK, Stace and Comet joining in the rotations to make a bunch of 20. Yet another WhisperingJack attack (with BigMat) on the westward run in Mitchell. A big bunch meant less turns so there was no drama maintaining good momentum to the highway, Roubaix, Raftery then the Conrod thrash, new inclusion Ange took a challenge up to Rocket's back wheel but got no further. Many already in holiday mode opted for a Christmas Eve breakfast at the Lemontree, I squeezed in a few minutes for a social coffee while others kicked on with cooked breakfast, hydrated by champagne courtesy of FeltMat's generosity.
Temple, AvantiTrev, Shaz, Cougar, HBK and Zan made up a Couldabeens/Breakaway combo for a Boxing Day roll around. Another comfortable 17 degree start with a hint of northeasterly aided a roll down Archer to Mitchell, with a little effort to be expended east to Boundary then north up Boundary. Due consideration shown to Shaz & Zan, their turns well matched amongst several decades of experience. Christmas hadn't dampened Cat numbers, a sizeable pack storming west along Mitchell. The northeaster gradually built to become a bit of a chore, but hope springs eternal knowing there'd be a bonus for the homeward section. Good load sharing for the northward plug up to Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd, the Breakaways extending their usual distance. Several sighs of relief on the turn west, just to have the breeze off the brow eases some stress. I'd say a few were feeling a little less guilty by burning a few calories from their Christmas dinner indulgence, a craving for Degani's banana & walnut toast may have motivated the steady roll home too. The quote "I ride to support my eating habit" had new credence. Back into town, a commute to the south to be seated and greeted by Luke (Degani's new captain), with some festive chat between toast tastings.
A bit of Fb negotiation organised a Friday lap, favouring a course to allow AvantiTrev to open the shop while most were in holiday mode. A 6am flag dropped for PistolPete, Rocket, Shorty, Nick, WhisperingJack, Temple, AvantiTrev and HBK arriving quite early (23 seconds to spare). Eastward bound (on Saturday's route) in Channel Rd at 6, on the front paired with PistolPete's pronto pace paid proper penance to yesterday's three and a half hour lunch at mum's (twas a sin to accept the extra slices of turkey and a second stab at the pudding) AvantiTrev's 35km/h peace accord broke down quickly, the pairing of WhisperingJack and HBK escalated into a 44km/h jihad by Channel's end. Rocket quickly shuffled the order to get to the front and impose a junta, sledging some punishment to Jack, rapidly expiring under the extended load. A southerly in Boundary kept momentum northward, Temple drove well up to Old Dookie nudging 40, I was glad Nick, Shorty and Trev had lower targets in mind. The Jack/HBK pairing struck again in the k up to the Emu, Rocket again inflicting duress upon the perpetrators. Speed settled soon after, back to the front with the heart rate hovering at 170 matching PistolPete was actually easier. Big chunks of scenery slipped by (concentration at speed erases sightseeing), soon with the coarse stone of Ford's new tarmac under the Michelins. Another hit by the militia nearing town fractured the bunch, my position mid field elected me (and PistolPete) the glue to hold the pack together. Many were greatful to halt for traffic at Numurkah Rd to catch up with oxygen intake, back into the pace though past DECA, a blast up Mt.Wanganui and home via Rudd, WhisperingJack turning the tables half biking HBK. Rocket took the trophy at the cemetery speed sign, I halted the Garmin soon after unknowingly at 1:00:00 precisely. Copious sledging at the Lemontree between the Schwarzenegger/DeVito twins (HBK/WhisperingJack) and a casual (light) breakfast was a great start to the day and end to a (short) bike week.
Week 52 : 201 km (Eucla to the middle of nowhere, 194k into S.A on the Nullabor) YTD 17,898km
"A word to the wise 'aint neccessary, it's the stupid ones that need advice"
Bill Cosby (1937- ) US comedian
A note of thanks to the many kind comments about the blog. Just a bit chuffed (and humbled) to
clock up 10,000 views :-) Word up for a special "2013 in review" edition mid next week.
Festive festivities occupied Sunday keeping the bike stabled, welcomed rain spoilt chances of a Monday morning fix. Christmas Eve's morning entourage was encouraging with a Couldabeens team of Temple, Trav, Nick, Shorty, Cougar, Rocket, Jase, Pom, HBK, WhisperingJack, FeltMat, BigMat, AvantiTrev, FujiTrev and PistolPete, many with tinsel, baubels, Santa hats etc to get into the spirit, BigMat one step ahead with carols on bluetooth speaker. Ange had been a last minute inclusion, delayed by puncture to a 51 appointment. Yuletide aerodynamics didn't hamper plenty of pace out Channel Rd, arriving at Boundary to give way to a small band of P&W's bearing south. We'd persued and passed them by the bridges, HWK, Stace and Comet joining in the rotations to make a bunch of 20. Yet another WhisperingJack attack (with BigMat) on the westward run in Mitchell. A big bunch meant less turns so there was no drama maintaining good momentum to the highway, Roubaix, Raftery then the Conrod thrash, new inclusion Ange took a challenge up to Rocket's back wheel but got no further. Many already in holiday mode opted for a Christmas Eve breakfast at the Lemontree, I squeezed in a few minutes for a social coffee while others kicked on with cooked breakfast, hydrated by champagne courtesy of FeltMat's generosity.
Temple, AvantiTrev, Shaz, Cougar, HBK and Zan made up a Couldabeens/Breakaway combo for a Boxing Day roll around. Another comfortable 17 degree start with a hint of northeasterly aided a roll down Archer to Mitchell, with a little effort to be expended east to Boundary then north up Boundary. Due consideration shown to Shaz & Zan, their turns well matched amongst several decades of experience. Christmas hadn't dampened Cat numbers, a sizeable pack storming west along Mitchell. The northeaster gradually built to become a bit of a chore, but hope springs eternal knowing there'd be a bonus for the homeward section. Good load sharing for the northward plug up to Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd, the Breakaways extending their usual distance. Several sighs of relief on the turn west, just to have the breeze off the brow eases some stress. I'd say a few were feeling a little less guilty by burning a few calories from their Christmas dinner indulgence, a craving for Degani's banana & walnut toast may have motivated the steady roll home too. The quote "I ride to support my eating habit" had new credence. Back into town, a commute to the south to be seated and greeted by Luke (Degani's new captain), with some festive chat between toast tastings.
A bit of Fb negotiation organised a Friday lap, favouring a course to allow AvantiTrev to open the shop while most were in holiday mode. A 6am flag dropped for PistolPete, Rocket, Shorty, Nick, WhisperingJack, Temple, AvantiTrev and HBK arriving quite early (23 seconds to spare). Eastward bound (on Saturday's route) in Channel Rd at 6, on the front paired with PistolPete's pronto pace paid proper penance to yesterday's three and a half hour lunch at mum's (twas a sin to accept the extra slices of turkey and a second stab at the pudding) AvantiTrev's 35km/h peace accord broke down quickly, the pairing of WhisperingJack and HBK escalated into a 44km/h jihad by Channel's end. Rocket quickly shuffled the order to get to the front and impose a junta, sledging some punishment to Jack, rapidly expiring under the extended load. A southerly in Boundary kept momentum northward, Temple drove well up to Old Dookie nudging 40, I was glad Nick, Shorty and Trev had lower targets in mind. The Jack/HBK pairing struck again in the k up to the Emu, Rocket again inflicting duress upon the perpetrators. Speed settled soon after, back to the front with the heart rate hovering at 170 matching PistolPete was actually easier. Big chunks of scenery slipped by (concentration at speed erases sightseeing), soon with the coarse stone of Ford's new tarmac under the Michelins. Another hit by the militia nearing town fractured the bunch, my position mid field elected me (and PistolPete) the glue to hold the pack together. Many were greatful to halt for traffic at Numurkah Rd to catch up with oxygen intake, back into the pace though past DECA, a blast up Mt.Wanganui and home via Rudd, WhisperingJack turning the tables half biking HBK. Rocket took the trophy at the cemetery speed sign, I halted the Garmin soon after unknowingly at 1:00:00 precisely. Copious sledging at the Lemontree between the Schwarzenegger/DeVito twins (HBK/WhisperingJack) and a casual (light) breakfast was a great start to the day and end to a (short) bike week.
Week 52 : 201 km (Eucla to the middle of nowhere, 194k into S.A on the Nullabor) YTD 17,898km
"A word to the wise 'aint neccessary, it's the stupid ones that need advice"
Bill Cosby (1937- ) US comedian
A note of thanks to the many kind comments about the blog. Just a bit chuffed (and humbled) to
clock up 10,000 views :-) Word up for a special "2013 in review" edition mid next week.
Friday, December 20, 2013
Week 51: A suitable speedbump?
The regulars were at the carpark Saturday morning, many still rugged up for the unseasonal cool starts. The new Avanti Corsa gets Jase arriving early, Nick, AvantiTrev, Rocket, Temple, Cougar, DiscoSteve, FeltMat, FujiTrev, PistolPete and Trav completing the line-up. Nobody has moved the sun from blinding us in the first leg, just a few degrees to the right would be ok if anyone can arrange it? No early Breakaways to tempt the pace this morning, on cue HBK sides up in leg 4 for the ritual slab of sarcasm. Rocket was a little off line in leg 5, some spacial anomaly he was chuckling about? Christmas and it's load on work, shopping, parking and family seemed to dominate the chat. Nath arrived on cue in Boundary with a hint of southwesterly to propell us to the Toaster (eau de piggery turning most off bacon brekky....again) We were in pursuit of a small band of Tri club riders (good to see Sootie mobile after big knee rework) on course for a tour to Dookie and beyond, catching them by the rail line but judging best to stay behind with their trajectory right and ours left at the Emu. Shaz, Aimee, Zan & Patty came into view headed west in Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd, heads down attacking the SW breeze. HBK jumped ship to assist his boss and the crew, Nath ramped up the speed at the kennels to unhook a recovering DiscoSteve and stretch FujiTrev. (Rocket and Trav were quick to oblige a helping tow back to the bunch) Unity prevailed (a sizeable Cat pack cruised east), we'd reached Ford Rd for some rallycross action over the recent roadworks, thankfully well compacted dirt with just a few loose stones. Back onto terra firma after the rail line for a decent run to Ford's end, down Wanganui and into the breeze of Rudd. Boulevard done, then through the streets to base camp, the breakaways beating us to the prime seats. AstonMartin's, sausages, teamwork and "quiet roll arounds" were chewed over, the Lemontree on a go slow with coffee orders dragged out the pit stop.
The bike lay abandoned and neglected till Monday (such is the Christmas rush), a relaxed ride to re-aqauint limbs and limber up for the weeks few quick laps no doubt. Cougar & I set off south on Archer into a fresh southerly (breeze bunch some distance ahead on an early start), rolling a short route via Mitchell and Raftery to clock 25 and be at the coal face for the Christmas mahem. The afternoon beckoned a toaster lap with Woz keen to run in the new Scott. Nudging 30 degrees needed some climatisation to fluid intake, the strong SSW'er mocking the effort put into Conrod straight, at least some relief was had reaching Mitchell. We'd solved the worlds problems with the wind behind us, managing a decent rate of knots and a more than aerobic heart rate to boot. Maybe to justify the madness I was miraging letterboxes, walkers and rubbish bins as distant riders ; came to zero only ratifying the insanity. The honeymoon was over at the Emu, a hard push 20k's home with the heart rate hovering between 170 and 180. Wouldn't have pushed that hard on my own, but silly me picks a young fit guy to attempt to match! (thanks Woz, twas good but it did hurt!) Begging for slow moving trucks to draft off (none came of course) the road got longer and longer as the mental shovel dug deeper and deeper. Jellied legs reaching DECA, ran on raw determination to get home to an air conditioner and a cold drink (don't you just love luke warm electrolytes from a hot bidon?) A later Strava comparison showed almost identical heart rates and calorie burn.
Wondered if Monday evenings work out would wreck limbs for a Couldabeens circuit Tuesday, but I guess there's only one way to find out. Jase (early again) lined up with Temple, Rocket, Cougar, AvantiTrev, FujiTrev, FeltMat, BigMat, Trav, Kenworth, HBK and Vince. Luck had me miss the first shift, content to let others lead the way out Channel. Nick and Whispering Jack arrived on cue at Kensington's roundabout, the bunch enjoying a gradual build up to cruising speed. Beyond the cypress trees the two Trev's turn together tamed tempo turning at the S bend, Vince & HBK on the next shift added 5km/h to the rate silencing many. My next turn for the last of Boundary and first of Mitchell predicted a meltdown with the ticker at 173, but remembering survival on last nights 20k at 170-180 put a different slant on it (cheers Wozza!) Doc Paul was swallowed up at the chicane and hooked on for the ride. Whispering Jack poured on the profuse pace, stretching the pack, but PistolPete and I were well placed to assist a few on the limit glued on. All got a brief breather when the speed settled beyond Kialla central, HBK exited in Archer, but Vince picked it up again at Mt Nicolaci. A slow again at the highway then back on the gas for Raftery & Roubaix relegated many to sit back for survival. Not much urge left in my legs by Conrod, the PistolPete / Vince / Kenworth train looked a winner till Rocket launched, leaving them in his wake. A quick 37av lap handed out lots of well earned Strava trophies.
Numbers down at the hospital boom gates Tuesday night, all hiding in the shade from a 32 degree sun. Coggo, Tony, Scott, Simmo, Paul, Hamish and Kate, the only starters, off at 6 to negotiate the Verney Rd catastropy called a bike lane. (the 4x2 still there from three weeks ago, albeit now big kindling) Ford Rd has finally been sealed (coarse of course) but was negotiated with due care (fresh tar but no feathers). The warm southerly (@18km/h) turned SSW, the Machine joined in at the kennels, Sticks soon after. Just my luck I had Hamish to match into the headwind from the Emu to the church, (did my pennance at 36km/h), glad to have Tony with me to the toaster at a more considerate rate. A settled pace along Old Dookie and down Boundary (Simmo retiring down Channel) was commonsense given the perspiration over determination factor. River Rd was testing on the open plains with wind against us, paired with Hamish again bumped up the heart rate quickly, respite with Paul's and MachineSteve's speed dragging the pack along. Kate vanished home along Mitchell and turns seemed to roll over faster with one or two taking the back seat option. Coggo calmed the seas after Roubaix but excitement brewed with Arcadia Downs coming into view. Through the last kink Hamish, Paul and Sticks hooked in turning the bunch long and single file, it was fight for survival as many sucummed. I'd held onto 4th due mainly to many running out of steam with half a k left to go. Pleased the hr dropped from 178 to 129 by the bridge, allowed a yarn with the crew on the balmy tour home.
Plenty of punters at Kialla for Wednesday's "recovery" ride. SuperMario, AvantiTrev, FeltMat, Temple, Cougar (crowned QOM yesterday), Shorty, Trav, FujiTrev, Jase, Nick and Jarrod (Trav's mate) had lined up, an unknown rider waiting in the wings was all smiles (hoping for a tow?) Alll away at 6 bells, the mystery man OTA in the first 200 metres (was he a too early Adams hopeful?) Bit of a chase with Jase to latch onto the first leg, a push into 15km/h worth of southerly. PistolPete arrived as we neared the Alt route, effort a little easier headed east up Mitchell. Little recovery today when FeltMat and Temple took to the front for a 10/10ths assault, i'd managed to ease back a couple of k when it came to doing duty from the chicane to Boundary. Northbound had the Pistol packing some heat into the legs, Jase staying a wheel back as a hint (failed). A few spacial dilemmas again with FujiTrev, DiscoSteve flew into his driveway amid hoo roo's, the remaining dozen onto Channel for the 8k home. A not so sedate trip west in Channel Rd catching and passing the odd soloist, finally to Doyles Rd for the cautionary crossing. A cursory glance for traffic (to be sure to be sure, despite the trusted calls of all clear) failed to notice Temple just ahead on his 3rd attempt to engage a cleat, in a spilt second Cosmic's were rubbing and down I went, up close and personal with the tarmac. Instantly feeling like a suitable speedbump for the next Freightliner, was on my feet, then seat, cranking out of harms way with a bit of skin from elbow and knee left behind to mark the spot. It's been a while since the last 'off', hopefully a while before the inevitable next.
The silly season beckoned yet another early start Thursday, so out Channel Rd 5 minutes ahead of the Couldabeens for an anti-clockwise circuit with Cougs. Months of enduring my prose about winter woes is at an end folks, now to start sooking about the heat! A 20 degree start into an easterly is a quantum shift in conditions, I wonder if Spring came and went in a week? Dart hVader made a suprise attack at the heels at Sellmans to quicken the pulse moreso than the ride, a refreshing face wash from my bidon had him back off quickly. Relief to head up Boundary Rd with the breeze now at our sides, HBK, Stace and a small gathering of P&W's at the highway, a plethora of pussycats projecting south a few minutes behind, and a g'day from 51 train driver Nev (still with oxygen to spare in pursuit of the puddy's). Easier going pointed homeward in Old Dookie, a gregarious gathering of Goats greeted (noticing the 'rug man' JB as their inclusion) A short and sweet lap done was a great start to yet another busy day. A 41 degree afternoon was definitely for mad dogs and Englishmen, a relaxed evening upon the couch (but not eating Cheezels off my fingers) a positive prescription.
Not much snooze with a minimum 23 degrees overnight, awake in the early hours Friday pondering a lap. Went for a solo Cat track attack, how much deficit does this old engine incurr I wonder? Settled into a survivable mid 30's eastward on Old Dookie (though the NE wind resistance didn't make life easy), noticing a distance red light flashing. Quickly motivated to chase, I reset the redline to 175bpm for a lengthy pursuit (hoping there'd be something left for the rest of the lap). Slowly but surely the target was reached, the torpedo Trudy out on a solo mission. Ye olde self seemed to be coping with the pace so kept at it, close to the limit, reaching Boundary for some ease from the breeze (a glance back found Trudi tucked in for a tow) Able to manage high 30's bearing south it was on toward River Rd and to thread the line through stick city (plenty of timber from last nights gusts) wondering the suprises in store for those mid & tail of bunch on FreakyFriday. (Hope all kept upright) Legs were turning a bit rubbery by River's end, eased off a k or so till Mitchell, then back on it for the seemingly endless trip to Raftery. Plenty of caution near Arcadia Downs with busted branches commonplace, it's been nearly 5 years since "the stick" incident (in similar circumstances). Safely through on a less than straight trajectory (lessons from Trev?) the energy guage showed empty crossing the line in Conrod, pleased with a 35.4 but it's a 5 minute giveaway to Sprinter on the new Avanti stealth bomber.
Week 51 352 km (Nuytsland Reserve to Eucla W.A.) YTD 17,897km
"Behind every great man is a woman.......rolling her eyes!" Jim Carrey (1962- ) US actor & comedian
The bike lay abandoned and neglected till Monday (such is the Christmas rush), a relaxed ride to re-aqauint limbs and limber up for the weeks few quick laps no doubt. Cougar & I set off south on Archer into a fresh southerly (breeze bunch some distance ahead on an early start), rolling a short route via Mitchell and Raftery to clock 25 and be at the coal face for the Christmas mahem. The afternoon beckoned a toaster lap with Woz keen to run in the new Scott. Nudging 30 degrees needed some climatisation to fluid intake, the strong SSW'er mocking the effort put into Conrod straight, at least some relief was had reaching Mitchell. We'd solved the worlds problems with the wind behind us, managing a decent rate of knots and a more than aerobic heart rate to boot. Maybe to justify the madness I was miraging letterboxes, walkers and rubbish bins as distant riders ; came to zero only ratifying the insanity. The honeymoon was over at the Emu, a hard push 20k's home with the heart rate hovering between 170 and 180. Wouldn't have pushed that hard on my own, but silly me picks a young fit guy to attempt to match! (thanks Woz, twas good but it did hurt!) Begging for slow moving trucks to draft off (none came of course) the road got longer and longer as the mental shovel dug deeper and deeper. Jellied legs reaching DECA, ran on raw determination to get home to an air conditioner and a cold drink (don't you just love luke warm electrolytes from a hot bidon?) A later Strava comparison showed almost identical heart rates and calorie burn.
Wondered if Monday evenings work out would wreck limbs for a Couldabeens circuit Tuesday, but I guess there's only one way to find out. Jase (early again) lined up with Temple, Rocket, Cougar, AvantiTrev, FujiTrev, FeltMat, BigMat, Trav, Kenworth, HBK and Vince. Luck had me miss the first shift, content to let others lead the way out Channel. Nick and Whispering Jack arrived on cue at Kensington's roundabout, the bunch enjoying a gradual build up to cruising speed. Beyond the cypress trees the two Trev's turn together tamed tempo turning at the S bend, Vince & HBK on the next shift added 5km/h to the rate silencing many. My next turn for the last of Boundary and first of Mitchell predicted a meltdown with the ticker at 173, but remembering survival on last nights 20k at 170-180 put a different slant on it (cheers Wozza!) Doc Paul was swallowed up at the chicane and hooked on for the ride. Whispering Jack poured on the profuse pace, stretching the pack, but PistolPete and I were well placed to assist a few on the limit glued on. All got a brief breather when the speed settled beyond Kialla central, HBK exited in Archer, but Vince picked it up again at Mt Nicolaci. A slow again at the highway then back on the gas for Raftery & Roubaix relegated many to sit back for survival. Not much urge left in my legs by Conrod, the PistolPete / Vince / Kenworth train looked a winner till Rocket launched, leaving them in his wake. A quick 37av lap handed out lots of well earned Strava trophies.
Numbers down at the hospital boom gates Tuesday night, all hiding in the shade from a 32 degree sun. Coggo, Tony, Scott, Simmo, Paul, Hamish and Kate, the only starters, off at 6 to negotiate the Verney Rd catastropy called a bike lane. (the 4x2 still there from three weeks ago, albeit now big kindling) Ford Rd has finally been sealed (coarse of course) but was negotiated with due care (fresh tar but no feathers). The warm southerly (@18km/h) turned SSW, the Machine joined in at the kennels, Sticks soon after. Just my luck I had Hamish to match into the headwind from the Emu to the church, (did my pennance at 36km/h), glad to have Tony with me to the toaster at a more considerate rate. A settled pace along Old Dookie and down Boundary (Simmo retiring down Channel) was commonsense given the perspiration over determination factor. River Rd was testing on the open plains with wind against us, paired with Hamish again bumped up the heart rate quickly, respite with Paul's and MachineSteve's speed dragging the pack along. Kate vanished home along Mitchell and turns seemed to roll over faster with one or two taking the back seat option. Coggo calmed the seas after Roubaix but excitement brewed with Arcadia Downs coming into view. Through the last kink Hamish, Paul and Sticks hooked in turning the bunch long and single file, it was fight for survival as many sucummed. I'd held onto 4th due mainly to many running out of steam with half a k left to go. Pleased the hr dropped from 178 to 129 by the bridge, allowed a yarn with the crew on the balmy tour home.
Plenty of punters at Kialla for Wednesday's "recovery" ride. SuperMario, AvantiTrev, FeltMat, Temple, Cougar (crowned QOM yesterday), Shorty, Trav, FujiTrev, Jase, Nick and Jarrod (Trav's mate) had lined up, an unknown rider waiting in the wings was all smiles (hoping for a tow?) Alll away at 6 bells, the mystery man OTA in the first 200 metres (was he a too early Adams hopeful?) Bit of a chase with Jase to latch onto the first leg, a push into 15km/h worth of southerly. PistolPete arrived as we neared the Alt route, effort a little easier headed east up Mitchell. Little recovery today when FeltMat and Temple took to the front for a 10/10ths assault, i'd managed to ease back a couple of k when it came to doing duty from the chicane to Boundary. Northbound had the Pistol packing some heat into the legs, Jase staying a wheel back as a hint (failed). A few spacial dilemmas again with FujiTrev, DiscoSteve flew into his driveway amid hoo roo's, the remaining dozen onto Channel for the 8k home. A not so sedate trip west in Channel Rd catching and passing the odd soloist, finally to Doyles Rd for the cautionary crossing. A cursory glance for traffic (to be sure to be sure, despite the trusted calls of all clear) failed to notice Temple just ahead on his 3rd attempt to engage a cleat, in a spilt second Cosmic's were rubbing and down I went, up close and personal with the tarmac. Instantly feeling like a suitable speedbump for the next Freightliner, was on my feet, then seat, cranking out of harms way with a bit of skin from elbow and knee left behind to mark the spot. It's been a while since the last 'off', hopefully a while before the inevitable next.
The silly season beckoned yet another early start Thursday, so out Channel Rd 5 minutes ahead of the Couldabeens for an anti-clockwise circuit with Cougs. Months of enduring my prose about winter woes is at an end folks, now to start sooking about the heat! A 20 degree start into an easterly is a quantum shift in conditions, I wonder if Spring came and went in a week? Dart hVader made a suprise attack at the heels at Sellmans to quicken the pulse moreso than the ride, a refreshing face wash from my bidon had him back off quickly. Relief to head up Boundary Rd with the breeze now at our sides, HBK, Stace and a small gathering of P&W's at the highway, a plethora of pussycats projecting south a few minutes behind, and a g'day from 51 train driver Nev (still with oxygen to spare in pursuit of the puddy's). Easier going pointed homeward in Old Dookie, a gregarious gathering of Goats greeted (noticing the 'rug man' JB as their inclusion) A short and sweet lap done was a great start to yet another busy day. A 41 degree afternoon was definitely for mad dogs and Englishmen, a relaxed evening upon the couch (but not eating Cheezels off my fingers) a positive prescription.
Not much snooze with a minimum 23 degrees overnight, awake in the early hours Friday pondering a lap. Went for a solo Cat track attack, how much deficit does this old engine incurr I wonder? Settled into a survivable mid 30's eastward on Old Dookie (though the NE wind resistance didn't make life easy), noticing a distance red light flashing. Quickly motivated to chase, I reset the redline to 175bpm for a lengthy pursuit (hoping there'd be something left for the rest of the lap). Slowly but surely the target was reached, the torpedo Trudy out on a solo mission. Ye olde self seemed to be coping with the pace so kept at it, close to the limit, reaching Boundary for some ease from the breeze (a glance back found Trudi tucked in for a tow) Able to manage high 30's bearing south it was on toward River Rd and to thread the line through stick city (plenty of timber from last nights gusts) wondering the suprises in store for those mid & tail of bunch on FreakyFriday. (Hope all kept upright) Legs were turning a bit rubbery by River's end, eased off a k or so till Mitchell, then back on it for the seemingly endless trip to Raftery. Plenty of caution near Arcadia Downs with busted branches commonplace, it's been nearly 5 years since "the stick" incident (in similar circumstances). Safely through on a less than straight trajectory (lessons from Trev?) the energy guage showed empty crossing the line in Conrod, pleased with a 35.4 but it's a 5 minute giveaway to Sprinter on the new Avanti stealth bomber.
Week 51 352 km (Nuytsland Reserve to Eucla W.A.) YTD 17,897km
"Behind every great man is a woman.......rolling her eyes!" Jim Carrey (1962- ) US actor & comedian
Friday, December 13, 2013
Week 50 A foul on fowl and motorpacing on monoxide
Rather optomistically attired for summer on Saturday morning but it felt like September with just 7 degrees on the guage. Set off to the usual start, collecting Wozza on the way for his bunch debut. Only Shaz and Zan to brave the Breakaways, but Dion, Rocket, Cougar, Shorty, Nick, PistolPete, SuperMario, Pom, WhisperingJack and birthday boy RidleyTrev made up a dozen. Woz impressed many with a fine lead on leg one, quickly settling into the peleton protocols. The habitual dose of sarcasm from HBK reached new depths, news and views from others on the wind free run to Boundary. A bunch was eastbound in Old Dookie (a moment of right of way with the Breakaways), but we made no gain on them on the run to the toaster. At the rail line we had inducted Nath and Smuggler aboard, (aforementioned group headed toward the quarry) no discernable heat from the sun had my thoughts turned to coffee and toast already. Cats were unsighted today, reaching Ford Rd we'd discovered a reason, road (eastbound) closed. More resealing will have us amongst stones again next week I guess. The speed infringement blame game was tossed between WhisperingJack, HBK and PistolPete headed to Wanganui, none prepared to own up, RidleyTrev seemed to be little troubled by it. Unabaited pace to Rudd Rd and most of the Boulevard, a Smuggler and Nick exit for work, but all retired to the Lemontree for birthday cake and caffine with cheers for Trev. Enthused discourse on motel bookings, BonJovi and Tuesdays hitters was interrupted by a very short skirt and departures of 51 & Goats/Gazelles/Muppets
Intercepted Temple on a warm up to a Harvey Norman assembly at 7 on Sunday, old faithful Ridley letting him down (literally) with a seatpost malfunction. Minded the start line while he returned home to change steeds, HBK and FeltMat arrivng in the meantime. A few routes chewed over, the anti-clockwise toaster won the vote. With Temple aboard it was southward in Conrod, a rapid warm up beside HBK for a long (6.5 k) first leg. Pointed into Mitchell, a brewing northeaster was as subtle as Mathos' Cippolini, temperature building too from 13 to 19. Temple and FeltMat provided a much welcomed draft but all too soon it was duty time at the front again, +35bpm worth. Quite pleased to see Boundary Rd's tarmac layed out northward, the wind now at 2 o'clock more managable. FeltMat drove well from River Rd to the pub, the course now trimmed of toaster and Emu, straight up to Lemnos-Cosgrove won the poll. A little tree shelter leading up to New Dookie Rd then Christmas arrived turning west. All was well with the world with the wind assiting passage home but a diversion needed with Ford Rd closed (from yesterday's road works). Veered left down to New Dookie Rd then westward home, HBK lighting up the pace touching the 50's, a great yarn over Butterfactory coffee capped off the ride. A great day for Weapon (11.48.28) and Tommygun (10.47.20) at the Busselton Ironman, HurtLocker scooped the Shepp Crit B grade with Bart 1st and the Fox 3rd, Anna Meares clocked a 54.8 average on a 500TT and Francois Peruis nailed a kilometer in 56.3 secs at the world track championships. I feel quite inadequate now!
The need for an early start Tuesday needed a shorter lap, Cougar a willing participant to head out on Channel a three minutes before the Couldabeens and take the Boundary-Old Dookie option home. A west north wester set the wheels humming, so pushed east well enough to keep the Couldabeens behind . Bearing north, it was Graeme's greeting from amongst the Cats, Nev driving the 51 train in pursuit, and a bold bushy bearded bloke busting a boiler in Boundary (aka Ayto) with a P&W trio. Facing the headwind for Old Dookie Rd, LegalDave offered encouragement (from within a gaggle of Goats) so it was heads down to drive into the breeze for 7k home.
A slightly smaller gathering than normal at the hospital on Tuesday evening, BassoDave, Coggo, GT.Craig, Paul, Sticks, Tony, Clive, Hamish and Scott making the most of a magic 21 degrees, just the westerly (24-30km/h) to enjoy out and torment back. Roadworks continue in Ford Rd, a km stretch of rolled dirt to negotiate beyond the rail line. Found Kev loitering near the main channel, Sticks, Hamish and Paul ramping up the pace into the fifties cracking the pack. The three guns slowly crept into the distance but the eight remaining teamed up to share the load, a push to the toaster and a slog to Boundary Rd. Easier southbound toward River Rd (some shelter from the trees) an ambling 'world champion' was caught easily as we approached the Pub. Kev and GT.Craig drove well into the head wind on River (the 'champion' quickly diving for cover instead of a go at the business end) the group finding Andy near Laws Drive on a bike powered by 2 stroke. "Champion" quickly jumped on to be motorpaced on monoxide, but the bunch soon gathered them up in Mitchell. Raftery Rd was relatively free of gasping, heart attacks and shattered hopes, a steady build up of speed in co-operative company was rare but enjoyable. Rotations went my way to have Basso Dave and GT.Craig into the mid 40's ahead of me with 200 left of Conrod. Put in a blast to the line to pinch the chocolates, pleased there's some life left in the old legs (400W) and ticker (192bpm) with a 56 at 56.
Wednesdays' Kialla start had an encouraging turn-up, Shorty, Rocket, Jase (bling bestowed for birthday, aboard a flash new Avanti Corsa DR), Nick, AvantiTrev, FujiTrev (thought he'd sought Muppet assylum?) DiscoSteve (back from shoulder reconditioning) Wazza (on bunch ride #2), Cougar, FeltMat and PistolPete (almost north to the start line before his southward u turn) as 6 o'clock chimed. A pleasant roll down Archer with 10 degrees most acceptable, a light WNW to help us along Mitchell (aiding Nick's jellied legs from yesterday) Pistol Pete in a new Garneau kit was judged best dressed by couture & culture captain Cougar. FujiTrev was up to familiar manoevres with an erratic slice across Nick's wheel in Boundary Rd, only two small groups in TT format seen southward toward River Rd's race. Jase is climatising to the Corsa (and it's SRAM and Zipps) on it's second day out, a far cry from the old faithful Giant about to be divorced. Wozza has quickly embraced bunch morals and is circulating like a pro, not bad for his second dip. The turn into Channel Rd with the now westerly breeze at 15km/h didn't seem too tough, maybe hidden amongst the orchards kept us from the real task? Three red tail-lights ahead were like red flags to the bulls on the front, driving up to the kinder and collecting Breakaways Shaz, Patty & Jen to attach for a tow. Silence in abundence as oxygen was heartily consumed for 500 metres but their rubber band snapped at Prentice Rd. Well done anyway ladies. FeltMat peeled off after the school, the remainder saw out the finish, all minus inspiration for a Bonanza blast with the wind hampering progress.
Thursday was yet another September day in December, cold to the point of wishing the 3/4 knicks were chosen (ancient knees protesting). Plenty of tough Couldabeens at the shop though, Rocket, Jase (still wearing the Avanti grin) Shorty, Cougar, PistolPete, Trav,Temple, HBK, AvantiTrev and FujiTrev. Nick and WhisperingJack had completed an earlier 25k and u-turned at Kensington to make up a bakers dozen. Nicely warmed up (instead of toasted) on the first leg with Jase's consideration, a precursor to the wattage of Rocket & PistolPete paired for leg 3. Several WTF moments half way out Channel Rd with fog rising from the channels, check your calandars folks, it is almost half way through December. Due consideration was held for the rubber-band effect out of corners and intersections, Nick showing a little wear and tear of extra k's when southbound. Paired again with Jase on the last 2k of Boundary when a quadrella of guinea fowl slowly ambled into the middle of the road throwing mahem into the bunch. All emerged upright and unmarked (bikes and birds) but heart rates stayed high a bit longer. The Mitchell Rd scenery shot past quickly, soon on the brakes for Central Kialla, then on the gas till the highway (HBK exit stage right) The kettle boiled slowly in Raftery till full steam was reached in Conrod, a few hanging on by the fingertips at the back, Rocket signing the scorching sprint with a #1.
A work workout prompted a night off the Library lark, (Rocket pipped all) topping off the week with a quiet observation lap of the boys blistering Boundary. I reckon 30+ in the Supercats, a small pack of AristoCats with Doc at the wheel 5 minutes behind. Choppy's cheerful chime from the P&W's and a (Goat?) trio in Old Dookie. A hint of south westerly put Cougars' head down and the speed up, quickly back into town where it felt more like summer for TGIF.
Week 50: 337 km ( Lake Reeve to Nuytsland Reserve W.A.) YTD 17,545 km
"Do not take life too seriously, you will never get out of it alive" Elbert Hubbard (1856-1915) US writer & philosopher
Intercepted Temple on a warm up to a Harvey Norman assembly at 7 on Sunday, old faithful Ridley letting him down (literally) with a seatpost malfunction. Minded the start line while he returned home to change steeds, HBK and FeltMat arrivng in the meantime. A few routes chewed over, the anti-clockwise toaster won the vote. With Temple aboard it was southward in Conrod, a rapid warm up beside HBK for a long (6.5 k) first leg. Pointed into Mitchell, a brewing northeaster was as subtle as Mathos' Cippolini, temperature building too from 13 to 19. Temple and FeltMat provided a much welcomed draft but all too soon it was duty time at the front again, +35bpm worth. Quite pleased to see Boundary Rd's tarmac layed out northward, the wind now at 2 o'clock more managable. FeltMat drove well from River Rd to the pub, the course now trimmed of toaster and Emu, straight up to Lemnos-Cosgrove won the poll. A little tree shelter leading up to New Dookie Rd then Christmas arrived turning west. All was well with the world with the wind assiting passage home but a diversion needed with Ford Rd closed (from yesterday's road works). Veered left down to New Dookie Rd then westward home, HBK lighting up the pace touching the 50's, a great yarn over Butterfactory coffee capped off the ride. A great day for Weapon (11.48.28) and Tommygun (10.47.20) at the Busselton Ironman, HurtLocker scooped the Shepp Crit B grade with Bart 1st and the Fox 3rd, Anna Meares clocked a 54.8 average on a 500TT and Francois Peruis nailed a kilometer in 56.3 secs at the world track championships. I feel quite inadequate now!
The need for an early start Tuesday needed a shorter lap, Cougar a willing participant to head out on Channel a three minutes before the Couldabeens and take the Boundary-Old Dookie option home. A west north wester set the wheels humming, so pushed east well enough to keep the Couldabeens behind . Bearing north, it was Graeme's greeting from amongst the Cats, Nev driving the 51 train in pursuit, and a bold bushy bearded bloke busting a boiler in Boundary (aka Ayto) with a P&W trio. Facing the headwind for Old Dookie Rd, LegalDave offered encouragement (from within a gaggle of Goats) so it was heads down to drive into the breeze for 7k home.
A slightly smaller gathering than normal at the hospital on Tuesday evening, BassoDave, Coggo, GT.Craig, Paul, Sticks, Tony, Clive, Hamish and Scott making the most of a magic 21 degrees, just the westerly (24-30km/h) to enjoy out and torment back. Roadworks continue in Ford Rd, a km stretch of rolled dirt to negotiate beyond the rail line. Found Kev loitering near the main channel, Sticks, Hamish and Paul ramping up the pace into the fifties cracking the pack. The three guns slowly crept into the distance but the eight remaining teamed up to share the load, a push to the toaster and a slog to Boundary Rd. Easier southbound toward River Rd (some shelter from the trees) an ambling 'world champion' was caught easily as we approached the Pub. Kev and GT.Craig drove well into the head wind on River (the 'champion' quickly diving for cover instead of a go at the business end) the group finding Andy near Laws Drive on a bike powered by 2 stroke. "Champion" quickly jumped on to be motorpaced on monoxide, but the bunch soon gathered them up in Mitchell. Raftery Rd was relatively free of gasping, heart attacks and shattered hopes, a steady build up of speed in co-operative company was rare but enjoyable. Rotations went my way to have Basso Dave and GT.Craig into the mid 40's ahead of me with 200 left of Conrod. Put in a blast to the line to pinch the chocolates, pleased there's some life left in the old legs (400W) and ticker (192bpm) with a 56 at 56.
Wednesdays' Kialla start had an encouraging turn-up, Shorty, Rocket, Jase (bling bestowed for birthday, aboard a flash new Avanti Corsa DR), Nick, AvantiTrev, FujiTrev (thought he'd sought Muppet assylum?) DiscoSteve (back from shoulder reconditioning) Wazza (on bunch ride #2), Cougar, FeltMat and PistolPete (almost north to the start line before his southward u turn) as 6 o'clock chimed. A pleasant roll down Archer with 10 degrees most acceptable, a light WNW to help us along Mitchell (aiding Nick's jellied legs from yesterday) Pistol Pete in a new Garneau kit was judged best dressed by couture & culture captain Cougar. FujiTrev was up to familiar manoevres with an erratic slice across Nick's wheel in Boundary Rd, only two small groups in TT format seen southward toward River Rd's race. Jase is climatising to the Corsa (and it's SRAM and Zipps) on it's second day out, a far cry from the old faithful Giant about to be divorced. Wozza has quickly embraced bunch morals and is circulating like a pro, not bad for his second dip. The turn into Channel Rd with the now westerly breeze at 15km/h didn't seem too tough, maybe hidden amongst the orchards kept us from the real task? Three red tail-lights ahead were like red flags to the bulls on the front, driving up to the kinder and collecting Breakaways Shaz, Patty & Jen to attach for a tow. Silence in abundence as oxygen was heartily consumed for 500 metres but their rubber band snapped at Prentice Rd. Well done anyway ladies. FeltMat peeled off after the school, the remainder saw out the finish, all minus inspiration for a Bonanza blast with the wind hampering progress.
Thursday was yet another September day in December, cold to the point of wishing the 3/4 knicks were chosen (ancient knees protesting). Plenty of tough Couldabeens at the shop though, Rocket, Jase (still wearing the Avanti grin) Shorty, Cougar, PistolPete, Trav,Temple, HBK, AvantiTrev and FujiTrev. Nick and WhisperingJack had completed an earlier 25k and u-turned at Kensington to make up a bakers dozen. Nicely warmed up (instead of toasted) on the first leg with Jase's consideration, a precursor to the wattage of Rocket & PistolPete paired for leg 3. Several WTF moments half way out Channel Rd with fog rising from the channels, check your calandars folks, it is almost half way through December. Due consideration was held for the rubber-band effect out of corners and intersections, Nick showing a little wear and tear of extra k's when southbound. Paired again with Jase on the last 2k of Boundary when a quadrella of guinea fowl slowly ambled into the middle of the road throwing mahem into the bunch. All emerged upright and unmarked (bikes and birds) but heart rates stayed high a bit longer. The Mitchell Rd scenery shot past quickly, soon on the brakes for Central Kialla, then on the gas till the highway (HBK exit stage right) The kettle boiled slowly in Raftery till full steam was reached in Conrod, a few hanging on by the fingertips at the back, Rocket signing the scorching sprint with a #1.
A work workout prompted a night off the Library lark, (Rocket pipped all) topping off the week with a quiet observation lap of the boys blistering Boundary. I reckon 30+ in the Supercats, a small pack of AristoCats with Doc at the wheel 5 minutes behind. Choppy's cheerful chime from the P&W's and a (Goat?) trio in Old Dookie. A hint of south westerly put Cougars' head down and the speed up, quickly back into town where it felt more like summer for TGIF.
Week 50: 337 km ( Lake Reeve to Nuytsland Reserve W.A.) YTD 17,545 km
"Do not take life too seriously, you will never get out of it alive" Elbert Hubbard (1856-1915) US writer & philosopher
Thursday, December 5, 2013
Week 49 : Flat tigers, 124 friends and a laborious aria.
Being kitted defiantly in summer attire had no effect on Saturdays weather, a fresh southerly held the mercury at 8 degrees. No doubt the grizzles of too hot will be upon us soon. Caught Zan (quite cloaked) on the way to a breakaway, then joined the minimalist bunch at the carpark, several missing on festive diversions. Just Supermario, Shorty, Cougar, RidleyTrev, AvantiCraig (on RidleyTrev's Avanti.....confused?), PistolPete and HBK prepared for a Sat.lap. The 5 Breakaways departed early, our 9 took to Channel Rd at 6 and I scored first shift again (at least RidleyTrev commenced on the conservative). Craig quite keen at the front in Boundary Rd, fairly focussed on his speedo rather than the bunch, way out in front earning a temporary tag of WBK (whole bike king) The fresh southerly sat us up the road for Old Dookie, all watching the limit being assisted north to the Emu. The customary long line of Gati di Micci plied west with a greeting here and there (Matho's green machine as subtle as a sledgehammer), a rare occasion to see LeighMac actually aboard and not a k behind.
Took a turn at the front in Ford but AvantiCraig's front was still a bike ahead of me. After a k of consideration i'd had enough, took his pocket and pulled him back to level up. Comfort finding Ford Rd swept of loose stone, a smooth run to Numurkah Rd, then a paced leg to Rudd Rd driven by HBK. Cruised back to town to socialise but several had pending work or family agendas to keep. Just 7 at the table joining 5 Breakaways for enlightened education on messy seperations, Garmin technicalities and big hitters, Weapon arriving as a suprise addition.
A somewhat sumptuous sleep-in till 6.30 on Sunday but the road beckoned by 7 to take on a solo circuit via the Emu, Toaster and back via Channel. A strong northeasterly made hard going of Ford & Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd, concentration on anything but the rising heart rate did nothing to reduce the bpm or effort, 170 and climbing till the relief of turning southward to the toaster. Wiped off 40 bpm by the rail line, back into the land of the living for the run to Boundary Rd. A change in mood with the breeze behind, from crawling home complaining to planning an enthused crack at the Mexican Bonanza, so reserved some kick for the end of Channel. The wind had swung to NNE by the time the Kinder came into view, no chance of a breeze assistance for the target. Came across WhisperingJack and Ron beyond Doyles Rd, called a g'day then zoned in for the final burst (to bust my 36 av last Wednesday). On the gas at Kensington roundabout, 700 metres seems an eternity at full bore, wind giving me the sideways shove, trying to find a smooth line through the corrugated corner with h.r. @ 181. The jar was empty by the bus stop, finished breathless but pleased with a 45.4 average, (just under a minute for the segment), suitably chuffed at making 7th overall. A 10 minute cool down through the streets, then found Cougar to set sail on a Couldabeens lap. The wind was now angry at 32 to 48km/h, a big push back out Channel Rd if only to find some comfort for the southbound stretch of Boundary Rd. Almost at Channels' end when we came upon an oncoming & grinning Rocket (Christmas came early for the blast behind him homeward). We'd almost recovered turning from Boundary into Mitchell, but the wind was intent on driving wheels into the left tabledrain. Quite a few bikes out now pointing east, Scott, Stevo, Birchy, Vince & Jodie, all to face the hard yakka headed north. Down to the highway, teeth were gritted for the slog into Conrod, the last 800 metres exposed to a 2 o'clock headwind from hell. Thoughts of Degani's banana and walnut toast drove the legs to finish, coffee and a relaxed verbal on things bike put a great lid on 70k. Sneeked a brief peek at the 'Respect' event on the trip home, a few Goats amongst some MTB's and young guns on windtrainers.
Real summer weather Monday, already 19 degrees at 5 with just the left-overs of yesterdays ENE. Feeling a little secondhand from Sunday's longish and windy lap suited a tender toed Cougar, pairing to take on Channel, Boundary and Old Dookie as has become a regular regime. The heart rate monitor was showing high numbers for a somewhat cruisy lap, 235bpm not quite accurate me thinks. (strap or battery in doubt?) Fragments of Cats were headed south, just a face or two recognised as paths crossed. Straddles, Bomber and Vince picked out from the first three packs, Sosso amongst the P&W's. Two flat tigers decorated Boundary Road (just 500 metres apart), it's that season again. A small reward of a light tail wind for the trip home in Old Dookie inspired Cougar to hit the loud pedal for a rapid finish (certainly satisfying the timeclock at work)
It was Wozza's maiden (road bike) voyage Monday evening, grinning like a Cheshire cat turning a wheel for the first time on a spanking new Scott. Matte black and red looked pretty hot, a similarly hot 35 degrees to bed it in on the Saturday circuit (in practice for the Saturday circuit.....next Saturday). A toasty 17-26km/h NNE wind made it hard yakka till the Emu, but at least we had the reward of a tail wind home. Woz had settled into the road bike position well for his first bash, lots of k's on a flat bar has tuned the legs well to average low 30's (into that wind) Not many mad dogs or Englishmen seen, just one bike and a thirsty looking mutt. Interesting to compare h.r.'s on Strava, mine a 159 average vs Wozza's 174 (16 years my junior)
More real summer on Tuesday morning, 21 degrees with a NNE blowing up to 24k's would assist a pronto passage in Boundary and Mitchell. Some subtle deck shuffling at the car park exit (not naming Temple though) put me on Rocket's wheel to roster me for leg 2, but HBK's puncture with less than a half a k travelled mixed the order again. No RidleyTrev Roadside Assist today, Daniel left to the mercy of skill to cope, with plentiful sledging to speed the process. On the road again 5 min behind schedule (this time on Kenworth's wheel) had some urgency to Boundary Rd, thankfully a considered accelleration south kept the team glued together. Shorty, PistolPete, Nick, Cougar, FeltMat, WhisperingJack and Jase poured on the pace passing a cruising Cobbles at the Broken Bridges. Into the roaring 40's for Mitchell Rd, Nick & Jack raising the bar when they sniffed the front. Crossed Central Kialla (spying felines heading south at the Hall) but I had resolved to take the Archer option to please the work timeclock. HBK, Cougar & I sat back, that flat chat Cat pack back (on attack). We stayed off their line and exited into Archer, now facing a head wind (Couldabeens on the usual trajectory to Raftery). Pleased to clock mid 30's at Kialla with the slog back to town, but wondering if fur flew in Conrod. (long fast and ugly was the report received later)
Thought numbers would be down for Tuesdays thrash with 33 on the temperature guage, but a sizeable mob were at the hospital. Clive, BassoDave, Paul, Dion, Robbo, Rocket, RidleyTrev, Coggo, Tony, even Nick emerged from obscurity (possibly to crawl straight back?). All depated at six bells out Graham St and to negotiate the torture of Verney Rd's goat track (some call it a bike lane). Faded & non-exisistant linemarking, a 4x2 plank, the meandering direction, holes, rubbish, manhole covers, gravel and tarmac humps to murder wheels and posteriors, puts the real meaning into COGS' bike strategy. (time to put some curt counsel into our councillors?) Eastward over the rail-line Bomber, Sticks and Stan caught on (missed the start), the Rocket & Robbo combo were a zinger burger of tempo, a side order of hot and spicy NNW at 15km/h kept the momentum rapid. Nath and MachineSteve joined in further out, Bomber and Sticks cranked it up to the toaster and the speed didn't seem to alter westward despite the shift to a WNW wind. Several took a back seat to being sent to the rushin' front, my cranky heart rate monitor rushin' again into the 240's (or was I having a heart attack?) Luke climbed aboard in Old Dookie Rd, I counted 17 in the bunch as we crossed the highway, driven well to River Rd by the capable (and young) Dion, Paul & co. My next turn at the pointy end was cursed with the wind now head on, grateful Tony took mercy with a short turn before rolling over. Out of the dip it felt like the handbrake was left on, a few hundred metres later the old BM was steering like a marshmallow with a front puncture. Waved the lads around and, as expected, was left to tend to the fix solo (after encouraging RidleyTrev to carry on). About 124 friends (flies) did come to assist on the balmy roadside, so was hurriedly back riding thanks to another tube*** and CO2. Stuck the head down into the wind to tap out the remaining 11ks of the circuit, not dissapointed in the progress though legs were none too happy. Relief at reaching Conrod straight and chuffed to have salvaged a 36 average from the 38.4. the others posted
***a nice new one, thanks Jamie! (only a gentleman would replace a patched used with a new :-)
Wednesday's forecast was grim but the morning's reality didn't look too bad. Another warm start to the day (18) and a big gap in the green stuff on the radar was worth a gamble. Betrothed the chain to the 17 tooth cog for the 'spin' to Kialla (well, 78 rpm is 'spin' for me) to loosen the leg rust from last night. Only FeltMat had braved the start, a final radar check revealed trouble brewing so we set sail turning two blind eyes to the threatening dark mass in the north west sky. PistolPete was found u-turning half way along Archer so it was a tenacious trio (paired at front with a recovering reargunner behind) to rotate. PistolPete was about 4km/h faster than I'd hoped for, but copious cranial concrete was consumed to get over it and harden up. By Mitchell's end (and FeltMat's shortening turns) my legs were jellied, the head said persist but a chorus of desist was sung by rectus femoris, vastus latoralis and peroneus longus. This laborious latin aria had eventually faded in volume after a 3k turn with the pistol in Boundary, an internal second wind had arrived despite the physical head wind. We'd reeled in a guy and gal ahead, but they'd taken a monopoly on the entire lane (despite traffic oncoming) to make us thread a thin line past. Yeah, thanks. A few spits of rain arrived after the bridges then turned quickly to a light shower to dampen the road (and the mental state). Were we to become drowned rats? Toughed it out to have the rain retreat by Darth Vaders' house, optomism gladly welcomed back. Onward in Channel Rd with tempo building, tail lights ahead were slowly reeled in, the Breakaways (Amy, Zan and Patty) having a go too (just keen or crazy?) in less than ideal conditions. It was adeiu to FeltMat after the school, PistolPete and I signed off on the lap at Archer (damp cancelling any ideas of a belt at the Bonanza).
A quantum shift in climate Thursday, temperature halved to 9 and a cool south west blast nearing 30km/h had thoughts tuned to a testing time clockwise into the wind on a Couldabeens circuit. Focus shifted to an anticlockwise alternative, some may say a soft option, but better to like than loathe your hobby. Cougar was of similar mindset so we rolled out to watch a short Cat feature starring Matho (always entertaining), gentleman Graeme and a host of other stars at the Boundary entertainment centre. A quick 51 flick immediately following had a great soundtrack of carbon under duress, there was even a Goat featurette showing in Old Dookie. A large percentage of cars don't seem to have the headlight option in the (overcast) early hours, many bikes follow suit (hope they all eat their carrots) A brief baptism from the heavens settled the dust (barely enough to gloss the road) but made it home (&dried) just as the wind faded to nothing. Supersonic winds and plenty of afternoon showers canned Library bunch plans.
Too much thinkin' and not enough sleepin' Friday morning, up and away in the small hours but needed the winter kit for the measly 6 degrees. I didn't need to know the bureau's "feels like 2.7", the southwester at 15km/h was cool enough. Charted a 5.10 anti-clockwise toaster circuit, the push out Conrod (against the usual grain) spied feline Phil rolling in. (didn't feel so silly seeing another at this silly hour) Gilt edged clouds as the sun rose in River Rd was a good view, even scored a Strava bonus reaching the end. Aiming north in Boundary a slow brown fox became quick hearing the Mavic's moving, or was it the creaking fossil joints? The long precision line of Hurt Locker hurtled south, a fat pack o' Cats a few minutes behind, then 51 on the hunt soon after (one dragging the tongue at the back) I was swapping between the 17 and 15 searching for the right cadence up to the Emu, but might have to ask Santa for a 16. A push home into a now direct westerly asked for some effort, but got on top of the 15 cog in Ford Rd for a decent finish, a 1005 calorie hole to fill.
Week 49 : 434km (Jerramungup to Lake Dundas W.A.) YTD 17,208 km
"Even if you fall on your face, you're still moving forward" Victor Kiam (1926-2001) US entrepeneur
Took a turn at the front in Ford but AvantiCraig's front was still a bike ahead of me. After a k of consideration i'd had enough, took his pocket and pulled him back to level up. Comfort finding Ford Rd swept of loose stone, a smooth run to Numurkah Rd, then a paced leg to Rudd Rd driven by HBK. Cruised back to town to socialise but several had pending work or family agendas to keep. Just 7 at the table joining 5 Breakaways for enlightened education on messy seperations, Garmin technicalities and big hitters, Weapon arriving as a suprise addition.
A somewhat sumptuous sleep-in till 6.30 on Sunday but the road beckoned by 7 to take on a solo circuit via the Emu, Toaster and back via Channel. A strong northeasterly made hard going of Ford & Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd, concentration on anything but the rising heart rate did nothing to reduce the bpm or effort, 170 and climbing till the relief of turning southward to the toaster. Wiped off 40 bpm by the rail line, back into the land of the living for the run to Boundary Rd. A change in mood with the breeze behind, from crawling home complaining to planning an enthused crack at the Mexican Bonanza, so reserved some kick for the end of Channel. The wind had swung to NNE by the time the Kinder came into view, no chance of a breeze assistance for the target. Came across WhisperingJack and Ron beyond Doyles Rd, called a g'day then zoned in for the final burst (to bust my 36 av last Wednesday). On the gas at Kensington roundabout, 700 metres seems an eternity at full bore, wind giving me the sideways shove, trying to find a smooth line through the corrugated corner with h.r. @ 181. The jar was empty by the bus stop, finished breathless but pleased with a 45.4 average, (just under a minute for the segment), suitably chuffed at making 7th overall. A 10 minute cool down through the streets, then found Cougar to set sail on a Couldabeens lap. The wind was now angry at 32 to 48km/h, a big push back out Channel Rd if only to find some comfort for the southbound stretch of Boundary Rd. Almost at Channels' end when we came upon an oncoming & grinning Rocket (Christmas came early for the blast behind him homeward). We'd almost recovered turning from Boundary into Mitchell, but the wind was intent on driving wheels into the left tabledrain. Quite a few bikes out now pointing east, Scott, Stevo, Birchy, Vince & Jodie, all to face the hard yakka headed north. Down to the highway, teeth were gritted for the slog into Conrod, the last 800 metres exposed to a 2 o'clock headwind from hell. Thoughts of Degani's banana and walnut toast drove the legs to finish, coffee and a relaxed verbal on things bike put a great lid on 70k. Sneeked a brief peek at the 'Respect' event on the trip home, a few Goats amongst some MTB's and young guns on windtrainers.
Real summer weather Monday, already 19 degrees at 5 with just the left-overs of yesterdays ENE. Feeling a little secondhand from Sunday's longish and windy lap suited a tender toed Cougar, pairing to take on Channel, Boundary and Old Dookie as has become a regular regime. The heart rate monitor was showing high numbers for a somewhat cruisy lap, 235bpm not quite accurate me thinks. (strap or battery in doubt?) Fragments of Cats were headed south, just a face or two recognised as paths crossed. Straddles, Bomber and Vince picked out from the first three packs, Sosso amongst the P&W's. Two flat tigers decorated Boundary Road (just 500 metres apart), it's that season again. A small reward of a light tail wind for the trip home in Old Dookie inspired Cougar to hit the loud pedal for a rapid finish (certainly satisfying the timeclock at work)
It was Wozza's maiden (road bike) voyage Monday evening, grinning like a Cheshire cat turning a wheel for the first time on a spanking new Scott. Matte black and red looked pretty hot, a similarly hot 35 degrees to bed it in on the Saturday circuit (in practice for the Saturday circuit.....next Saturday). A toasty 17-26km/h NNE wind made it hard yakka till the Emu, but at least we had the reward of a tail wind home. Woz had settled into the road bike position well for his first bash, lots of k's on a flat bar has tuned the legs well to average low 30's (into that wind) Not many mad dogs or Englishmen seen, just one bike and a thirsty looking mutt. Interesting to compare h.r.'s on Strava, mine a 159 average vs Wozza's 174 (16 years my junior)
More real summer on Tuesday morning, 21 degrees with a NNE blowing up to 24k's would assist a pronto passage in Boundary and Mitchell. Some subtle deck shuffling at the car park exit (not naming Temple though) put me on Rocket's wheel to roster me for leg 2, but HBK's puncture with less than a half a k travelled mixed the order again. No RidleyTrev Roadside Assist today, Daniel left to the mercy of skill to cope, with plentiful sledging to speed the process. On the road again 5 min behind schedule (this time on Kenworth's wheel) had some urgency to Boundary Rd, thankfully a considered accelleration south kept the team glued together. Shorty, PistolPete, Nick, Cougar, FeltMat, WhisperingJack and Jase poured on the pace passing a cruising Cobbles at the Broken Bridges. Into the roaring 40's for Mitchell Rd, Nick & Jack raising the bar when they sniffed the front. Crossed Central Kialla (spying felines heading south at the Hall) but I had resolved to take the Archer option to please the work timeclock. HBK, Cougar & I sat back, that flat chat Cat pack back (on attack). We stayed off their line and exited into Archer, now facing a head wind (Couldabeens on the usual trajectory to Raftery). Pleased to clock mid 30's at Kialla with the slog back to town, but wondering if fur flew in Conrod. (long fast and ugly was the report received later)
Thought numbers would be down for Tuesdays thrash with 33 on the temperature guage, but a sizeable mob were at the hospital. Clive, BassoDave, Paul, Dion, Robbo, Rocket, RidleyTrev, Coggo, Tony, even Nick emerged from obscurity (possibly to crawl straight back?). All depated at six bells out Graham St and to negotiate the torture of Verney Rd's goat track (some call it a bike lane). Faded & non-exisistant linemarking, a 4x2 plank, the meandering direction, holes, rubbish, manhole covers, gravel and tarmac humps to murder wheels and posteriors, puts the real meaning into COGS' bike strategy. (time to put some curt counsel into our councillors?) Eastward over the rail-line Bomber, Sticks and Stan caught on (missed the start), the Rocket & Robbo combo were a zinger burger of tempo, a side order of hot and spicy NNW at 15km/h kept the momentum rapid. Nath and MachineSteve joined in further out, Bomber and Sticks cranked it up to the toaster and the speed didn't seem to alter westward despite the shift to a WNW wind. Several took a back seat to being sent to the rushin' front, my cranky heart rate monitor rushin' again into the 240's (or was I having a heart attack?) Luke climbed aboard in Old Dookie Rd, I counted 17 in the bunch as we crossed the highway, driven well to River Rd by the capable (and young) Dion, Paul & co. My next turn at the pointy end was cursed with the wind now head on, grateful Tony took mercy with a short turn before rolling over. Out of the dip it felt like the handbrake was left on, a few hundred metres later the old BM was steering like a marshmallow with a front puncture. Waved the lads around and, as expected, was left to tend to the fix solo (after encouraging RidleyTrev to carry on). About 124 friends (flies) did come to assist on the balmy roadside, so was hurriedly back riding thanks to another tube*** and CO2. Stuck the head down into the wind to tap out the remaining 11ks of the circuit, not dissapointed in the progress though legs were none too happy. Relief at reaching Conrod straight and chuffed to have salvaged a 36 average from the 38.4. the others posted
***a nice new one, thanks Jamie! (only a gentleman would replace a patched used with a new :-)
Wednesday's forecast was grim but the morning's reality didn't look too bad. Another warm start to the day (18) and a big gap in the green stuff on the radar was worth a gamble. Betrothed the chain to the 17 tooth cog for the 'spin' to Kialla (well, 78 rpm is 'spin' for me) to loosen the leg rust from last night. Only FeltMat had braved the start, a final radar check revealed trouble brewing so we set sail turning two blind eyes to the threatening dark mass in the north west sky. PistolPete was found u-turning half way along Archer so it was a tenacious trio (paired at front with a recovering reargunner behind) to rotate. PistolPete was about 4km/h faster than I'd hoped for, but copious cranial concrete was consumed to get over it and harden up. By Mitchell's end (and FeltMat's shortening turns) my legs were jellied, the head said persist but a chorus of desist was sung by rectus femoris, vastus latoralis and peroneus longus. This laborious latin aria had eventually faded in volume after a 3k turn with the pistol in Boundary, an internal second wind had arrived despite the physical head wind. We'd reeled in a guy and gal ahead, but they'd taken a monopoly on the entire lane (despite traffic oncoming) to make us thread a thin line past. Yeah, thanks. A few spits of rain arrived after the bridges then turned quickly to a light shower to dampen the road (and the mental state). Were we to become drowned rats? Toughed it out to have the rain retreat by Darth Vaders' house, optomism gladly welcomed back. Onward in Channel Rd with tempo building, tail lights ahead were slowly reeled in, the Breakaways (Amy, Zan and Patty) having a go too (just keen or crazy?) in less than ideal conditions. It was adeiu to FeltMat after the school, PistolPete and I signed off on the lap at Archer (damp cancelling any ideas of a belt at the Bonanza).
A quantum shift in climate Thursday, temperature halved to 9 and a cool south west blast nearing 30km/h had thoughts tuned to a testing time clockwise into the wind on a Couldabeens circuit. Focus shifted to an anticlockwise alternative, some may say a soft option, but better to like than loathe your hobby. Cougar was of similar mindset so we rolled out to watch a short Cat feature starring Matho (always entertaining), gentleman Graeme and a host of other stars at the Boundary entertainment centre. A quick 51 flick immediately following had a great soundtrack of carbon under duress, there was even a Goat featurette showing in Old Dookie. A large percentage of cars don't seem to have the headlight option in the (overcast) early hours, many bikes follow suit (hope they all eat their carrots) A brief baptism from the heavens settled the dust (barely enough to gloss the road) but made it home (&dried) just as the wind faded to nothing. Supersonic winds and plenty of afternoon showers canned Library bunch plans.
Too much thinkin' and not enough sleepin' Friday morning, up and away in the small hours but needed the winter kit for the measly 6 degrees. I didn't need to know the bureau's "feels like 2.7", the southwester at 15km/h was cool enough. Charted a 5.10 anti-clockwise toaster circuit, the push out Conrod (against the usual grain) spied feline Phil rolling in. (didn't feel so silly seeing another at this silly hour) Gilt edged clouds as the sun rose in River Rd was a good view, even scored a Strava bonus reaching the end. Aiming north in Boundary a slow brown fox became quick hearing the Mavic's moving, or was it the creaking fossil joints? The long precision line of Hurt Locker hurtled south, a fat pack o' Cats a few minutes behind, then 51 on the hunt soon after (one dragging the tongue at the back) I was swapping between the 17 and 15 searching for the right cadence up to the Emu, but might have to ask Santa for a 16. A push home into a now direct westerly asked for some effort, but got on top of the 15 cog in Ford Rd for a decent finish, a 1005 calorie hole to fill.
Week 49 : 434km (Jerramungup to Lake Dundas W.A.) YTD 17,208 km
"Even if you fall on your face, you're still moving forward" Victor Kiam (1926-2001) US entrepeneur
Friday, November 29, 2013
Week 48 : Solidarity & upside down Miss Jane
A cool 9 degrees headed to the weekend ritual, one exhuberant shop keeper with Christmas lights up already. Saturdays congregation had a few newcomers, Jimmy, Blacky and Craig (well, long time absent) joined Temple, Cougar, RidleyTrev (Sprinter must love the Avanti?) SuperMario, HBK, Rocket, Pom and BigMat. An incentive today with Zan, Amy & Shaz (the Breakaways) breaking away early as bait for Boundary. I inherited leg one with Rocket (straight on the griller, no simmering) then enjoyed the next two legs drafting and recovering. (BigMat and Rocket were fresh from a fast flog on Faark Friday) Exchanged the usual sarcasm with HBK and social updates with the rest of the crew, many moons since riding with Jimmy (2005 Murray to Moyne), Nath aboard in the closing metres of Channel. Swinging into Boundary, sight of the breakaway bunch was a carrot for some. Over the highway a brief slow was ammo for the girls to attach (adding a little more class to our crew) and enjoy a tow to Old Dookie. East to the toaster (breakaways north, Cougar east on a family schedule) then north to the Emu. Nath nudged the nitro to the Church (to repent his sins?) but rejoined at the channel bridge. No advanced parties to the pussycats today, just the long line of felines with Straddles and the jovial Jamie at the helm, but Matho (on Cipo) a distant green ghost. (Slept in? Boundary bound I believe) HBK had the tape measure on SuperMario and Craig had an extra Weetbix on his roll over, but a group it was (and stayed) till Fords recent reseal and extra layer of stones applied the caution. Over the highway and up to Rudd, Nath and BigMat rekindled the cemetery sprint (no other takers) to unload a little testosterone, but returned for a collective cruise to coffee. WhisperingJacks next comeback, Motorway Patrol and YouTube entertainment the agenda, good to get a social fix after two weeks missing, blessed with the belles of Breakaway joining in too.
At a special invitation, I joined the lasses Patty, Shaz, Zan, Cougar and Jan for a 30k loop of the Emu and Toaster on Sunday. Quite the harem to have but a strengthening southwester could have stayed away. A steady and smooth sojourn (better byfar than betwixt a bunch of boofy blokes busting a boiler being belted by Bomber) and was gladly put to work to lead a single file back to town into the headwind, a few echelons eastbound eyed envoiusly. Suitably impressed with their straight and smooth effort for most so new to the addiction, a caffine fix to finish made a most civilised Sunday.
A quiet roll around Monday was just the ticket, hats off to those machines who belt out fast laps each morning but this engine is getting a bit old to thrash daily. The usual line of (silent) Cats followed by vociferous P&W's were sighted, then the turn toward town where Cougar put the head down and set sights on mowing down a westward TT Trek. Flags flapping at the finish a reminder that our windy September has gone into overtime.
Seems like I'm running late with the sun up earlier each day, nearly at the point of leaving the lights at home but there's always some inatentive half wit at the wheel that needs some lumens to wake up. The little train of Mooroopnites are still zig zagging through the Shepp streets, there's nearly enough daylight now to identify some. A good collection of Couldabeens for Tuesday, 10 degrees was ok and someone had turned the wind down to an easterly idle. Temple, RidleyTrev, Jase, Cougar, FeltMat, BigMat, Kenworth, AvantiCraig (inticed by his Saturday attendance) PistolPete, Nick and WhisperingJack (yet again, warmed up with a prior lap in the wee hours) and, suprisingly last (mimicking HBK), Rocket made up a bakers dozen for a short squirt. My h.r. was a bit short, showing just 45bpm on the (rapid) warm up train drive with Kenworth. I wish there was another 150 beats left! Enjoyed the bunch tow through the twists and turns of Channel Rd, next go at the front wasn't till the approach to and first k of Mitchell. An interesting comparison of body language to those serving time at the front, Rocket the Energiser bunny (batteries never run flat) Craig the whirling dervish on the limit and Kenworth a torquey traction engine. The aforesaid engine drove out of Roubaix well, managed to keep pace with him till the horse stud (wow!, h.r. now at 123), WhisperingJack then got on the stage to belt out a big tune on the Zipp's. I stuck with the survivors in Conrod as the lead half dozen crept away, a flurry of cadence till the last dip when Rocket's signature step out and launch took the chocolates. 28 clicks in 46 minutes a good effort by all. Got home to discover the h.r. monitor was worn upside down Miss Jane!
Off to the hospital gates on Tuesday evening, a perfect 27 degrees would mean good numbers and a hot pace to suit. Nath, GT.Craig (to differentiate from AvantiCraig) Paul, Coggo, Dion, Dalton, Clive (mit der vunderbah 65mm Reynolds carbon wheels), Tony, BassoDave and BigBrad departed on schedule, had a psycho driven Falcon overtaking on the wrong side of the Verney traffic island, then swinging left into Hawkins (all to save a couple of seconds! Maybe Home & Away was the priority?) The 15k westerly propelled us toward the Emu, Kev, Mitch, MachineSteve & Sticks swelled the workforce. Eventually got a shift at the front, Dalts' and I agreeing we'd drawn the longest straw. Coggo bailed out of his duty toward the church, highly capable drivers took on the headwind in Old Dookie with little let up. Down Boundary and past the pub (mmm...nice night for a beer) was it Axel and a small faction of anti-clockwisers headed toward Channel Rd? Heads up for the header approaching the Broken bridges but courtesy ruled, farmer Fred allowing us 18 through. Wind had swung to a SSW and dropped a little which only upped the ante for River Rd, an abbreviated turn for me at the front but Nath in full bore 40+ mood with Mitch matching, short essential sentences the only talk till Central Kialla's off camber left. Full steam ahead for Mitchell Rd, another shift with Dalton from Roubaix to the horse stud burned up most of the reserves. Clive took a brief burst which triggered most to follow suit, I was soon back at the back as the gaps opened. All effort went into rejoining the front half, one by one some guns sucummed, found myself two wheels behind MachineSteve in the 50's, a good spot with 300 left. Until he stood up and left us in his dust! Suprised I managed 3rd (at the benefit of a few retirements I'll admit) 1.07.15 about the quickest time for a hospital bunch I can remember.
Not too many creaks and groans the next morning (suprisingly) on the commute to Kialla, climatising to single digit temperaures with the help of a base layer. Southward in Archer I'd intercepted the Pom on the same course, arriving at the start in the nick of time but Nick was on time, as was Rocket, Shorty, Temple, FeltMat and RidleyTrev. PistolPete had got to just a k from the start before u-turning to make up an 8. A Rabobank sunrise (lots of orange and blue) in the distance of Mitchell was good justification of an early start but Temples' puncture beyond the dogleg made an early stop. RidleyTrev (Professor Puncture) was the pronto pitcrew (aiming for a tyre sale?) and had team Temple mobile in good time. Speed was elevated a little to make up the deficit, Nick and FeltMat driving long in Boundary (both waiting for each other to call a roll over it seems, but neither broke the ice). Time was being made up in Channel too, but a broken stubby put end to Nicks' inflation after crossing Doyles. Time was my enemy so tendered my apologies to continue to the salt mine (a p.r on the mexican bonanza to avoid having pay docked).
Real summer arrived Thursday morning, 19 degrees at 5.30 and a light northeaster. Did a little stall tactics arriving at the start to get a break from doing the first shift, Nick and WhisperingJack were already on site after a windy 30k warm up. Cougar, Rocket, Kenworth, Temple, RidleyTrev, PistolPete and Vince were ready, HBK finally arrivng thanks to Temple's paging service. Trev took the pace up slowly for the first leg, excitement soon took over with Rocket, PistolPete, Vince and HBK pouring on the pace, many others approaching full tilt. Channel Rd ended quickly, the south and west legs likely to pass faster with the wind behind. A few were reaching the redline so kept an eye out to avoid dropping any of the team. 40's for Mitchell relegated a few to skip turns, the young fella's seem to have plenty to do an extra shift anyway. HBK exited in Archer, the train steamed on, down and up Mt. Nicolaci and finally slowed for Melbourne Rd (taking oxygen on board) Gaps were slowly opening toward Arcadia so slowed to lend a draft to those most in need. The mandate to look out for the team overpowers the will to win, not many join a bunch to be dropped. Rocket had the same principals, dropping back from certain victory to keep tabs on the crew, a most honourable missile. One presumes Vince was victorious, what mattered was all did a solid ride in great time, finishing united.
Weather has been as consistant as a carbon tax policy lately, Friday half the temperature of Thursday with the wind crossing the floor to the opposition. A strong SSW didn't slow Rocket passing with a grin and a g'day in Archer Rd (soon a distant speck on the landscape) , Cougar & I just rolling the legs south to end a fairly rapid week. No target to shoot at today, a solitary lass ahead was doing it hard into the head wind (lots of noddy in the body language). Passing her put a philisophical and positive perspective on one's own performance, there's always someone doing it tougher no matter how you feel.
Week 48 : 377km (Bunbury to Jerramungup W.A.) YTD 16,774
"There is no stability without solidarity and no solidarity without stability" Jose Manuel Barroso (1956- ), Portugese politician and President of the European Committee
At a special invitation, I joined the lasses Patty, Shaz, Zan, Cougar and Jan for a 30k loop of the Emu and Toaster on Sunday. Quite the harem to have but a strengthening southwester could have stayed away. A steady and smooth sojourn (better byfar than betwixt a bunch of boofy blokes busting a boiler being belted by Bomber) and was gladly put to work to lead a single file back to town into the headwind, a few echelons eastbound eyed envoiusly. Suitably impressed with their straight and smooth effort for most so new to the addiction, a caffine fix to finish made a most civilised Sunday.
A quiet roll around Monday was just the ticket, hats off to those machines who belt out fast laps each morning but this engine is getting a bit old to thrash daily. The usual line of (silent) Cats followed by vociferous P&W's were sighted, then the turn toward town where Cougar put the head down and set sights on mowing down a westward TT Trek. Flags flapping at the finish a reminder that our windy September has gone into overtime.
Seems like I'm running late with the sun up earlier each day, nearly at the point of leaving the lights at home but there's always some inatentive half wit at the wheel that needs some lumens to wake up. The little train of Mooroopnites are still zig zagging through the Shepp streets, there's nearly enough daylight now to identify some. A good collection of Couldabeens for Tuesday, 10 degrees was ok and someone had turned the wind down to an easterly idle. Temple, RidleyTrev, Jase, Cougar, FeltMat, BigMat, Kenworth, AvantiCraig (inticed by his Saturday attendance) PistolPete, Nick and WhisperingJack (yet again, warmed up with a prior lap in the wee hours) and, suprisingly last (mimicking HBK), Rocket made up a bakers dozen for a short squirt. My h.r. was a bit short, showing just 45bpm on the (rapid) warm up train drive with Kenworth. I wish there was another 150 beats left! Enjoyed the bunch tow through the twists and turns of Channel Rd, next go at the front wasn't till the approach to and first k of Mitchell. An interesting comparison of body language to those serving time at the front, Rocket the Energiser bunny (batteries never run flat) Craig the whirling dervish on the limit and Kenworth a torquey traction engine. The aforesaid engine drove out of Roubaix well, managed to keep pace with him till the horse stud (wow!, h.r. now at 123), WhisperingJack then got on the stage to belt out a big tune on the Zipp's. I stuck with the survivors in Conrod as the lead half dozen crept away, a flurry of cadence till the last dip when Rocket's signature step out and launch took the chocolates. 28 clicks in 46 minutes a good effort by all. Got home to discover the h.r. monitor was worn upside down Miss Jane!
Off to the hospital gates on Tuesday evening, a perfect 27 degrees would mean good numbers and a hot pace to suit. Nath, GT.Craig (to differentiate from AvantiCraig) Paul, Coggo, Dion, Dalton, Clive (mit der vunderbah 65mm Reynolds carbon wheels), Tony, BassoDave and BigBrad departed on schedule, had a psycho driven Falcon overtaking on the wrong side of the Verney traffic island, then swinging left into Hawkins (all to save a couple of seconds! Maybe Home & Away was the priority?) The 15k westerly propelled us toward the Emu, Kev, Mitch, MachineSteve & Sticks swelled the workforce. Eventually got a shift at the front, Dalts' and I agreeing we'd drawn the longest straw. Coggo bailed out of his duty toward the church, highly capable drivers took on the headwind in Old Dookie with little let up. Down Boundary and past the pub (mmm...nice night for a beer) was it Axel and a small faction of anti-clockwisers headed toward Channel Rd? Heads up for the header approaching the Broken bridges but courtesy ruled, farmer Fred allowing us 18 through. Wind had swung to a SSW and dropped a little which only upped the ante for River Rd, an abbreviated turn for me at the front but Nath in full bore 40+ mood with Mitch matching, short essential sentences the only talk till Central Kialla's off camber left. Full steam ahead for Mitchell Rd, another shift with Dalton from Roubaix to the horse stud burned up most of the reserves. Clive took a brief burst which triggered most to follow suit, I was soon back at the back as the gaps opened. All effort went into rejoining the front half, one by one some guns sucummed, found myself two wheels behind MachineSteve in the 50's, a good spot with 300 left. Until he stood up and left us in his dust! Suprised I managed 3rd (at the benefit of a few retirements I'll admit) 1.07.15 about the quickest time for a hospital bunch I can remember.
Not too many creaks and groans the next morning (suprisingly) on the commute to Kialla, climatising to single digit temperaures with the help of a base layer. Southward in Archer I'd intercepted the Pom on the same course, arriving at the start in the nick of time but Nick was on time, as was Rocket, Shorty, Temple, FeltMat and RidleyTrev. PistolPete had got to just a k from the start before u-turning to make up an 8. A Rabobank sunrise (lots of orange and blue) in the distance of Mitchell was good justification of an early start but Temples' puncture beyond the dogleg made an early stop. RidleyTrev (Professor Puncture) was the pronto pitcrew (aiming for a tyre sale?) and had team Temple mobile in good time. Speed was elevated a little to make up the deficit, Nick and FeltMat driving long in Boundary (both waiting for each other to call a roll over it seems, but neither broke the ice). Time was being made up in Channel too, but a broken stubby put end to Nicks' inflation after crossing Doyles. Time was my enemy so tendered my apologies to continue to the salt mine (a p.r on the mexican bonanza to avoid having pay docked).
Real summer arrived Thursday morning, 19 degrees at 5.30 and a light northeaster. Did a little stall tactics arriving at the start to get a break from doing the first shift, Nick and WhisperingJack were already on site after a windy 30k warm up. Cougar, Rocket, Kenworth, Temple, RidleyTrev, PistolPete and Vince were ready, HBK finally arrivng thanks to Temple's paging service. Trev took the pace up slowly for the first leg, excitement soon took over with Rocket, PistolPete, Vince and HBK pouring on the pace, many others approaching full tilt. Channel Rd ended quickly, the south and west legs likely to pass faster with the wind behind. A few were reaching the redline so kept an eye out to avoid dropping any of the team. 40's for Mitchell relegated a few to skip turns, the young fella's seem to have plenty to do an extra shift anyway. HBK exited in Archer, the train steamed on, down and up Mt. Nicolaci and finally slowed for Melbourne Rd (taking oxygen on board) Gaps were slowly opening toward Arcadia so slowed to lend a draft to those most in need. The mandate to look out for the team overpowers the will to win, not many join a bunch to be dropped. Rocket had the same principals, dropping back from certain victory to keep tabs on the crew, a most honourable missile. One presumes Vince was victorious, what mattered was all did a solid ride in great time, finishing united.
Weather has been as consistant as a carbon tax policy lately, Friday half the temperature of Thursday with the wind crossing the floor to the opposition. A strong SSW didn't slow Rocket passing with a grin and a g'day in Archer Rd (soon a distant speck on the landscape) , Cougar & I just rolling the legs south to end a fairly rapid week. No target to shoot at today, a solitary lass ahead was doing it hard into the head wind (lots of noddy in the body language). Passing her put a philisophical and positive perspective on one's own performance, there's always someone doing it tougher no matter how you feel.
Week 48 : 377km (Bunbury to Jerramungup W.A.) YTD 16,774
"There is no stability without solidarity and no solidarity without stability" Jose Manuel Barroso (1956- ), Portugese politician and President of the European Committee
Friday, November 22, 2013
Week 47 : Fake toast, summer & vegans
A slightly smaller crew for Saturdays gathering, no Rocket (resting the afterburners for the evening Criterium), Patrick (7 peaks mountain climbing) or Nick (work beckoned) but AvantiTrev, Jase, Pom, Cougar, Temple, Trav, Shorty, FeltMat and HBK took to the Saturday ritual in 12 degrees, a puff of a southwester to assist.
The k's ticked over without drama, and like sands through the hourglass, we'd turned at the toaster then the emu, Cranky and crew spied on a reconnisance for the (scaled down) Cat pack in Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd. We felt the handbrake of the light southwester against us for the journey back to town. A (un-neccessary?) reseal of Ford Rd brought on the snap crackle and pop of tyres on loose stones, a few nervy moments hoping traction was on our side. A good run over Numurkah Rd, up Mt Wanganui without busting a head gasket and onto Rudd Rd. Had to skip the post ride fix of caffine and conversation, much to do in preparation for the 70.3 Ironman.
A chronic case of "worn out" Monday morning shelved ideas of an early lap, but workmate Wozza was up for an introduction to the toaster loop in the late arvo. Soon to dive into the world of road bikes (but still on a flat bar) we set off on a clockwise tour at a decent rate, a pair of 900x23 road tyres his only advantage on a 13kg Avanti. A trip down memory lane recalling my first (very green) attempts at this circuit, Wozza had no dramas staying at 33. (think my first go was at 23!) Two flat snakes on Ford and a train to wait for were the only distractions, perfect 27 degrees and just a whisker of ESE to push into. Legend behind the Emu and Toaster and road riding matters and manners discussed, still holding low 30's up to the pub. (breeze now a southerly to test tenacity) Spied Axel and others in River Rd as distance slowly wittled down Woz (a nodding head a dead giveaway) but credit due, he soldiered on holding 30. Effort eased out of Roubaix with the breeze almost behind, a little dip in Conrod as icing on the cake.
13 degrees felt a mild start to Tuesday, a big crew and a favourable north easterly was a recipe for records. Nick and WhisperingJack (already had an early 30 chalked up), Shorty, AvantiTrev, Temple, Trav, SuperMario, Rocket, Kenworth, BigMat, FeltMat and PistolPete (back from FNQ holidays) had an 'on the dot' HBK cue to roll out from the Archer shops. A steady build of speed for the first two legs was most considerate, I was paired with Kenworth for a hot leg 3, worth the 170bpm effort to get his tow after the roll over. All smooth and swift in Boundary, a couple of k's added with Mitchell Rd's tail wind, BigMat and WhisperingJack commenced a shoot out at the OK corral, macho matching to the dislike of some on the limit. Just 3km/h shaved off on the next few turns helped all to recover, HBK exiting in Archer on a work schedule. BigMat and WhisperingJack round 2 commenced at Arcadia Downs but it was a short bout. Two rows fractured into single file in Conrod, Rocket ventured forth where many feared to tread to show us how it's done with 500 to go. Many meters expired (with no coins left) in the last 200, my needle on the redline (194bpm) to finish with silver, impressed with PistolPete's pace after time off.
It's been a while since double dosing two brisk rides a day, wonder how the neolithic muscles will cope? Minimal prep time at 32 degrees, just jersey and knicks is a far cry from the endless layers needed during winter. Ozzie back from the Adelaide epic and holidays, blowing 5 weeks of cobwebs off. Tony, BassoDave, Clive, AvantiTrev, Paul, Nath, Craig, Sticks and Sly congregated at the boomgates, comparisons on wildlife struck till the clock struck 6. Hamish and Kate joined on in Graeme St, Steigy and MachineSteve in Verney. Chose the first shift well with Oz, a steady warm up into a muggy north-northeasterly (note to self to drink plenty, habits of abandoning the liquids in winter are to be changed) Kev, Travis and young Liam blended in as we crossed Boundary Rd, the tempo approaching 40 as usual. Glad things settled a bit for the south leg to the toaster, feeling a bit toasted myself (noticed that a crafty type has made a fake piece of toast for the toaster :-) Dalton was the last to join in Old Dookie Rd (a chase from a late start just missed us) to make up 19. A brief respite beyond the pub to wait for AvantiTrev and Kate (split by traffic at the highway) then back on the gas southward. Nath pulled out with a puncture nearing Channel Rd, insisting on a solo fix. Travis and MachineSteve drove the train to perfection, swift and steady progress by others in River Rd too, a testament to smooth turns. Sly's Trek with 11 DuraAce cogs, Steigy's stealth like Pinarello, Paul's Avanti clocking up it's first 1000, Dave's monogramed Basso, all humming along nicely. A squirt in Central Kialla Rd (thanks to the northerly) then resumption of the previous pace for Mitchell. Paired at the front with the torquey Dalton at Archer, lots of fuel burnt to climb Mt Nicolaci nudging the 40's, Christmas to get a rest slowing for the highway. The wick was slowly wound up in Raftery, Craig hit the front nearing Arcadia Downs and bolted like a startled rabbit, gapping the pack. Not enough jellybeans in the jar for me to get around the lad so tucked in hoping the big guns would venture forth. Hung out to dry at the business end, it was left to Paul, me and Sly to burn up on Conrod's dipper, the heavy artillery sitting back just waiting to light their fuse. With 300 to go a big train passed (carrying many not seen at the front for ages I might add), nothing but 50km/h to give at the end but satisfied with a fair contribution to finish mid field.
A perfect morning Wednesday, 13 on the thermometer and a weak southerly made it ideal for the mid week Couldabeens tour. Supermario, Shorty, Cougar, Rocket, Jase, LegalDave, Pom, AvantiTrev and FeltMat cued at the roundabout till the 6am flag dropped. PistolPete (getting over the post holiday blues?) joined in on the Archer Rd cue, a steady tap out Mitchell Rd with yet another ripper sunrise on show. Mild enough weather today to get Nick into short knicks, it brought the Pom out too (steadily recovering and regaining some form), LegalDave in prep for a Great Vic. Enjoyed our somewhat relaxed rate vs yesterdays thrash, Cats were aiming at the turn into River Rd with the locker lads closing in behind, keen to fluff up some fur. Our sheltered run west in Channel Rd kept the wheels turning, most keen to miss FeltMats flapping hankie when it broke free near the school. Rocket and Jase took a big dip in the closing stages for an assult on the Mexican Bonanza (55 clicks) I was most content to keep within zones 2 & 3 to allow old legs a chance to recover.
Stepped out the door at 5.35 Thursday all kitted up, low grey clouds and the smell of rain in the air threw the grey cells into doubt. Glad I didn't look at the radar. Oh well, hope springs eternal. Rolled down to the Archer shops (a few punters northbound put some sense into riding) finding a decent Couldabeens turn-up, many may have skipped peering at the BOM too? Kenworth, Jase, Temple, Rocket, Nick, RidleyTrev (the Avanti currently under Sprinter) Cougar, PistolPete, Shorty, Vince, Trav and WhisperingJack. A few negative predictions were silenced by action, out Channel at post haste pace with a WNW assistance. No sparring partner for Whispering Jack today, on his best behaviour earned an elephant stamp. The lead 8 got a bit eager turning into Boundary, gapped the 4 at the rear but a rebunch was soon in place. Felt the westerly pointing into Mitchell but dug deep at 170 beats, worth the push to get the Kenworth tow when he rolled the turn. Shorty had the nods nearing Central Kialla, a brief recovery at the slow for Central Kialla did the trick. Fast forward to Raftery's race, Whispering Jack pumped the pace in Conrod's dipper (gapping the bunch), Rocket set off in pursuit with a trailer of Jase, Vince and Trav stuck to his wheel. I spectated the finish, the Kenworth ran low on diesel, Whispering Jack was TKO, Vince took the chocolates, Rocket holding off a closing Jase.
Ye olde bike got a spring clean Thursday arvo, even rotated the Michelins to prepare for an abbreviated Library bunch ride. Proper summer weather at last and a westerly (20km/h+) to make work of heading home. We shouldn't grizzle about a little breeze after months of cold wet and miserable winter. Nath, Axel, Clive, Justin, Paul, Dalton, Robbo (promised to take it quietly; below 130bpm) Sticks, Tony, Gav, Luke, Travis and Liam got away at 6, the deck being shuffled early snookering me to score Nath's wheel (yeah, thanks!) As soon as Gav relinquished the lead, Nath took a torch to the tempo (tailwind in Wanganui got things keen) Daltons big engine stirred the pot moreso, soon to have three splits in the pack after Numurkah Rd. Travis brokered a peace deal before Verney, speed soon settled so that all may congregate. Kev, Bomber and LegalSteve were inducted, a 6 pack of TeamVeganPro joined after the soup tin (lentils I wonder?) Out to the Emu without much dawdling, little effect on speed facing the sidewind on the leg to the toaster. Headwind reality in Old Dookie pegged back the urgency to mid 30's, Portia's, Bobalino's and Nico's taking a short and sweet roll at the business end. A slick squirt to the pub then a peel off in Channel Rd to meet a dinner engagement. No hiding from the headwind heading homeward, kept the head down to the S bend to discover the Portalino team had tucked in behind. Rotations began but by the cypress trees I was struggling with their 33 to 38 variation track turns, dipping out on a few shifts. By the school, the lads were content to roll quietly in so I tapped out to the end without a bonanza finish. Much Indian food rectified the calorie loss.
Quite an internal argument on Friday morning, to ride or not to ride, that is the question. It was effort vs regret for a while, but copious cups of Kellogs Koncrete cured the motivation. Off down the main drag in the early hours a 13km/h remnant of last nights westerly all to contend with (until a ratbag Rodeo pulled alongside then turned left across my bow, parentage profusely pondered. Down Conrod straight (feels foreign southbound) I rounded up a newbie (brand new everything) inadvertantly scaring the whatevers out of the lad. Hope a kind wave resolved it. Another picture perfect sunrise at 6, shafts of orange light spearing from behind the clouds, justified the earlier arguement. Set a course via River Rd to peruse the passing parade of pumped peltons, just Fitzy aboard the TT as the first act. The arrow straight formation of Hurt Locker soon appeared, stark contrast to the Supercatpack on attack a bit back. 51 looked the business half a k behind, all the way to the ripple strips before a cheery P&W greeting. Pleased I'd clocked a PB for River eastward, spied the AristoCats followed by just 3 Goats southward in Boundary. Managed to keep in zone 4 for the circuit, despite feeling the pinch of a headwind in Channel. Came upon Shaz, Trish and the breakaways rolling the westward course home, continued on to town, again without a bonanza bust, but with 33 in the hour.
Week 47: 377km (Badgingarra to Bunbury W.A) YTD 16,397
"Old age is a good and pleasant thing. It is true you are gently shouldered off the stage but then you are given such a comfortable front stall as spectator" Confucius (551-479 BC) Chinese philosopher
The k's ticked over without drama, and like sands through the hourglass, we'd turned at the toaster then the emu, Cranky and crew spied on a reconnisance for the (scaled down) Cat pack in Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd. We felt the handbrake of the light southwester against us for the journey back to town. A (un-neccessary?) reseal of Ford Rd brought on the snap crackle and pop of tyres on loose stones, a few nervy moments hoping traction was on our side. A good run over Numurkah Rd, up Mt Wanganui without busting a head gasket and onto Rudd Rd. Had to skip the post ride fix of caffine and conversation, much to do in preparation for the 70.3 Ironman.
A chronic case of "worn out" Monday morning shelved ideas of an early lap, but workmate Wozza was up for an introduction to the toaster loop in the late arvo. Soon to dive into the world of road bikes (but still on a flat bar) we set off on a clockwise tour at a decent rate, a pair of 900x23 road tyres his only advantage on a 13kg Avanti. A trip down memory lane recalling my first (very green) attempts at this circuit, Wozza had no dramas staying at 33. (think my first go was at 23!) Two flat snakes on Ford and a train to wait for were the only distractions, perfect 27 degrees and just a whisker of ESE to push into. Legend behind the Emu and Toaster and road riding matters and manners discussed, still holding low 30's up to the pub. (breeze now a southerly to test tenacity) Spied Axel and others in River Rd as distance slowly wittled down Woz (a nodding head a dead giveaway) but credit due, he soldiered on holding 30. Effort eased out of Roubaix with the breeze almost behind, a little dip in Conrod as icing on the cake.
13 degrees felt a mild start to Tuesday, a big crew and a favourable north easterly was a recipe for records. Nick and WhisperingJack (already had an early 30 chalked up), Shorty, AvantiTrev, Temple, Trav, SuperMario, Rocket, Kenworth, BigMat, FeltMat and PistolPete (back from FNQ holidays) had an 'on the dot' HBK cue to roll out from the Archer shops. A steady build of speed for the first two legs was most considerate, I was paired with Kenworth for a hot leg 3, worth the 170bpm effort to get his tow after the roll over. All smooth and swift in Boundary, a couple of k's added with Mitchell Rd's tail wind, BigMat and WhisperingJack commenced a shoot out at the OK corral, macho matching to the dislike of some on the limit. Just 3km/h shaved off on the next few turns helped all to recover, HBK exiting in Archer on a work schedule. BigMat and WhisperingJack round 2 commenced at Arcadia Downs but it was a short bout. Two rows fractured into single file in Conrod, Rocket ventured forth where many feared to tread to show us how it's done with 500 to go. Many meters expired (with no coins left) in the last 200, my needle on the redline (194bpm) to finish with silver, impressed with PistolPete's pace after time off.
It's been a while since double dosing two brisk rides a day, wonder how the neolithic muscles will cope? Minimal prep time at 32 degrees, just jersey and knicks is a far cry from the endless layers needed during winter. Ozzie back from the Adelaide epic and holidays, blowing 5 weeks of cobwebs off. Tony, BassoDave, Clive, AvantiTrev, Paul, Nath, Craig, Sticks and Sly congregated at the boomgates, comparisons on wildlife struck till the clock struck 6. Hamish and Kate joined on in Graeme St, Steigy and MachineSteve in Verney. Chose the first shift well with Oz, a steady warm up into a muggy north-northeasterly (note to self to drink plenty, habits of abandoning the liquids in winter are to be changed) Kev, Travis and young Liam blended in as we crossed Boundary Rd, the tempo approaching 40 as usual. Glad things settled a bit for the south leg to the toaster, feeling a bit toasted myself (noticed that a crafty type has made a fake piece of toast for the toaster :-) Dalton was the last to join in Old Dookie Rd (a chase from a late start just missed us) to make up 19. A brief respite beyond the pub to wait for AvantiTrev and Kate (split by traffic at the highway) then back on the gas southward. Nath pulled out with a puncture nearing Channel Rd, insisting on a solo fix. Travis and MachineSteve drove the train to perfection, swift and steady progress by others in River Rd too, a testament to smooth turns. Sly's Trek with 11 DuraAce cogs, Steigy's stealth like Pinarello, Paul's Avanti clocking up it's first 1000, Dave's monogramed Basso, all humming along nicely. A squirt in Central Kialla Rd (thanks to the northerly) then resumption of the previous pace for Mitchell. Paired at the front with the torquey Dalton at Archer, lots of fuel burnt to climb Mt Nicolaci nudging the 40's, Christmas to get a rest slowing for the highway. The wick was slowly wound up in Raftery, Craig hit the front nearing Arcadia Downs and bolted like a startled rabbit, gapping the pack. Not enough jellybeans in the jar for me to get around the lad so tucked in hoping the big guns would venture forth. Hung out to dry at the business end, it was left to Paul, me and Sly to burn up on Conrod's dipper, the heavy artillery sitting back just waiting to light their fuse. With 300 to go a big train passed (carrying many not seen at the front for ages I might add), nothing but 50km/h to give at the end but satisfied with a fair contribution to finish mid field.
A perfect morning Wednesday, 13 on the thermometer and a weak southerly made it ideal for the mid week Couldabeens tour. Supermario, Shorty, Cougar, Rocket, Jase, LegalDave, Pom, AvantiTrev and FeltMat cued at the roundabout till the 6am flag dropped. PistolPete (getting over the post holiday blues?) joined in on the Archer Rd cue, a steady tap out Mitchell Rd with yet another ripper sunrise on show. Mild enough weather today to get Nick into short knicks, it brought the Pom out too (steadily recovering and regaining some form), LegalDave in prep for a Great Vic. Enjoyed our somewhat relaxed rate vs yesterdays thrash, Cats were aiming at the turn into River Rd with the locker lads closing in behind, keen to fluff up some fur. Our sheltered run west in Channel Rd kept the wheels turning, most keen to miss FeltMats flapping hankie when it broke free near the school. Rocket and Jase took a big dip in the closing stages for an assult on the Mexican Bonanza (55 clicks) I was most content to keep within zones 2 & 3 to allow old legs a chance to recover.
Stepped out the door at 5.35 Thursday all kitted up, low grey clouds and the smell of rain in the air threw the grey cells into doubt. Glad I didn't look at the radar. Oh well, hope springs eternal. Rolled down to the Archer shops (a few punters northbound put some sense into riding) finding a decent Couldabeens turn-up, many may have skipped peering at the BOM too? Kenworth, Jase, Temple, Rocket, Nick, RidleyTrev (the Avanti currently under Sprinter) Cougar, PistolPete, Shorty, Vince, Trav and WhisperingJack. A few negative predictions were silenced by action, out Channel at post haste pace with a WNW assistance. No sparring partner for Whispering Jack today, on his best behaviour earned an elephant stamp. The lead 8 got a bit eager turning into Boundary, gapped the 4 at the rear but a rebunch was soon in place. Felt the westerly pointing into Mitchell but dug deep at 170 beats, worth the push to get the Kenworth tow when he rolled the turn. Shorty had the nods nearing Central Kialla, a brief recovery at the slow for Central Kialla did the trick. Fast forward to Raftery's race, Whispering Jack pumped the pace in Conrod's dipper (gapping the bunch), Rocket set off in pursuit with a trailer of Jase, Vince and Trav stuck to his wheel. I spectated the finish, the Kenworth ran low on diesel, Whispering Jack was TKO, Vince took the chocolates, Rocket holding off a closing Jase.
Ye olde bike got a spring clean Thursday arvo, even rotated the Michelins to prepare for an abbreviated Library bunch ride. Proper summer weather at last and a westerly (20km/h+) to make work of heading home. We shouldn't grizzle about a little breeze after months of cold wet and miserable winter. Nath, Axel, Clive, Justin, Paul, Dalton, Robbo (promised to take it quietly; below 130bpm) Sticks, Tony, Gav, Luke, Travis and Liam got away at 6, the deck being shuffled early snookering me to score Nath's wheel (yeah, thanks!) As soon as Gav relinquished the lead, Nath took a torch to the tempo (tailwind in Wanganui got things keen) Daltons big engine stirred the pot moreso, soon to have three splits in the pack after Numurkah Rd. Travis brokered a peace deal before Verney, speed soon settled so that all may congregate. Kev, Bomber and LegalSteve were inducted, a 6 pack of TeamVeganPro joined after the soup tin (lentils I wonder?) Out to the Emu without much dawdling, little effect on speed facing the sidewind on the leg to the toaster. Headwind reality in Old Dookie pegged back the urgency to mid 30's, Portia's, Bobalino's and Nico's taking a short and sweet roll at the business end. A slick squirt to the pub then a peel off in Channel Rd to meet a dinner engagement. No hiding from the headwind heading homeward, kept the head down to the S bend to discover the Portalino team had tucked in behind. Rotations began but by the cypress trees I was struggling with their 33 to 38 variation track turns, dipping out on a few shifts. By the school, the lads were content to roll quietly in so I tapped out to the end without a bonanza finish. Much Indian food rectified the calorie loss.
Quite an internal argument on Friday morning, to ride or not to ride, that is the question. It was effort vs regret for a while, but copious cups of Kellogs Koncrete cured the motivation. Off down the main drag in the early hours a 13km/h remnant of last nights westerly all to contend with (until a ratbag Rodeo pulled alongside then turned left across my bow, parentage profusely pondered. Down Conrod straight (feels foreign southbound) I rounded up a newbie (brand new everything) inadvertantly scaring the whatevers out of the lad. Hope a kind wave resolved it. Another picture perfect sunrise at 6, shafts of orange light spearing from behind the clouds, justified the earlier arguement. Set a course via River Rd to peruse the passing parade of pumped peltons, just Fitzy aboard the TT as the first act. The arrow straight formation of Hurt Locker soon appeared, stark contrast to the Supercatpack on attack a bit back. 51 looked the business half a k behind, all the way to the ripple strips before a cheery P&W greeting. Pleased I'd clocked a PB for River eastward, spied the AristoCats followed by just 3 Goats southward in Boundary. Managed to keep in zone 4 for the circuit, despite feeling the pinch of a headwind in Channel. Came upon Shaz, Trish and the breakaways rolling the westward course home, continued on to town, again without a bonanza bust, but with 33 in the hour.
Week 47: 377km (Badgingarra to Bunbury W.A) YTD 16,397
"Old age is a good and pleasant thing. It is true you are gently shouldered off the stage but then you are given such a comfortable front stall as spectator" Confucius (551-479 BC) Chinese philosopher
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
Week 46 A short wet week
A rare weekend off the bike made Monday a re-aquaintance ride. Was the seat always in this position? Were the handlebars always that far away and that low? Is this my bike? Does it take that much effort to register 35km/h? Funny how a few days off the habit forces a whole new learning. A quiet (& creaky) lap was in order to re-learn the ropes, joined buddy Cougs for the familiar Channel-Boundary & Old Dookie circuit, familiar faces in the odd bunch or two making progress southward. It took most of this short lap to get my forgetful limbs back into the groove, funny how just a couple of days breaks the condition.
Tuesday morning lived up to the forecasters forecast. Fine patchy rain at 5 had the bike firmly parked. How many peered at phones in the early hours scanning B.O.M, WeatherWatch or other favoured forecasters? Then who, in disbelief, poked a nose outside to confirm the truth? My nose went back under the doona (hardcores may have taken a windtrainer option), a 6.20 rain shower confirmed a good decision. Rain reigned on Tuesday night too, denying an addict a fix. Wednesday went wet as well, the craving for forward motion getting stronger. The lure of the open road, birds chirping, scenery blurring by, wind in the hair (blowing in the ears for me), sweat on the brow, cars crowding the lane, insects up the nose, thumping the potholes, pins and needled palms, a pummelled posterior, cramps and stitches, a head wind home.......ah, the joy!
Thursday finally granted some relief with a cool but at least dry morning to re-aquaint with the bike again. Cougars' emergence from a gastric upheaval suited a suitably paced and distanced ride, suited me nicely too. A few straight days of decent weather would allow some consistency. Thursday night had a good turn up, Tony (recovered from the Adelaide-Shepp epic) Axel, Craig, Justin (shaking off copious cobwebs) Nath, Robbo, Paul, BassoDave, and a late arrival from Dalton, saved with Nath's protracted adjustment of Craigs hub. We found Simmo out the Boulevard and Steve (the machine) near the golf course to make up a dozen, LegalSteve a long way out Lemnos-Cosgrove made the bakers dozen. Pace was brisk but not busting, maybe a few had hopes of conservation for Saturdays' crit? Discovered Googs near half distance, a super smooth addition to turns at the business end of the bunch. Consistency reigned supreme for Boundary and River Rd's, most manageable for Mitchell too. Nath added pepper to the pace exiting Roubaix, the bunch morphing to indian file post haste. MachineSteve and Robbo poured on the chilli's approaching Conrod, many now assigned to rearward retirement. The half dozen drivers opened a widening gap with 400 metres left, no curry in my cadence to get near, so happily rolled in as a finisher.
Funny how an inconsistent week wrecks the rythym. A steady 20k chalked up on Friday suited Cougars' (improving) recovery as well. Freaky Friday not so furious today with the upcoming Crit, plenty out and about though.
Week 46 170km (Geraldton to Badgingarra W.A.) YTD 16,020km
"Opportunity does not knock, it presents itself when you beat down the door" Kyle Chandler US actor (1965- )
Tuesday morning lived up to the forecasters forecast. Fine patchy rain at 5 had the bike firmly parked. How many peered at phones in the early hours scanning B.O.M, WeatherWatch or other favoured forecasters? Then who, in disbelief, poked a nose outside to confirm the truth? My nose went back under the doona (hardcores may have taken a windtrainer option), a 6.20 rain shower confirmed a good decision. Rain reigned on Tuesday night too, denying an addict a fix. Wednesday went wet as well, the craving for forward motion getting stronger. The lure of the open road, birds chirping, scenery blurring by, wind in the hair (blowing in the ears for me), sweat on the brow, cars crowding the lane, insects up the nose, thumping the potholes, pins and needled palms, a pummelled posterior, cramps and stitches, a head wind home.......ah, the joy!
Thursday finally granted some relief with a cool but at least dry morning to re-aquaint with the bike again. Cougars' emergence from a gastric upheaval suited a suitably paced and distanced ride, suited me nicely too. A few straight days of decent weather would allow some consistency. Thursday night had a good turn up, Tony (recovered from the Adelaide-Shepp epic) Axel, Craig, Justin (shaking off copious cobwebs) Nath, Robbo, Paul, BassoDave, and a late arrival from Dalton, saved with Nath's protracted adjustment of Craigs hub. We found Simmo out the Boulevard and Steve (the machine) near the golf course to make up a dozen, LegalSteve a long way out Lemnos-Cosgrove made the bakers dozen. Pace was brisk but not busting, maybe a few had hopes of conservation for Saturdays' crit? Discovered Googs near half distance, a super smooth addition to turns at the business end of the bunch. Consistency reigned supreme for Boundary and River Rd's, most manageable for Mitchell too. Nath added pepper to the pace exiting Roubaix, the bunch morphing to indian file post haste. MachineSteve and Robbo poured on the chilli's approaching Conrod, many now assigned to rearward retirement. The half dozen drivers opened a widening gap with 400 metres left, no curry in my cadence to get near, so happily rolled in as a finisher.
Funny how an inconsistent week wrecks the rythym. A steady 20k chalked up on Friday suited Cougars' (improving) recovery as well. Freaky Friday not so furious today with the upcoming Crit, plenty out and about though.
Week 46 170km (Geraldton to Badgingarra W.A.) YTD 16,020km
"Opportunity does not knock, it presents itself when you beat down the door" Kyle Chandler US actor (1965- )
Saturday, November 9, 2013
Week 45 Fossilisation?
Perfect weather Saturday morning, brave enough to don short knicks in 14 degrees but soft enough to go with the armwarmers. Wind turned off and attendance turned on at the carpark. Rocket, Temple, Shorty, AvantiTrev, Patrick, Cougar, Tim, PistolPete, Smuggler (and his mate Yahoo) and GG were blessed with Weapons' presence, a somewhat more portly Pom back from oblivion too. The flag dropped at 6 to venture east, quite a noticable contrast of Weapons' almost horizontal TT position against Temple's upright sit. A bit of nickname chat on the way out, deciding Tim should be dubbed SuperMario (plumber) instead of others' less flattering handle, GG's return has crowned him the WhisperingJack title (more comebacks than Farnham) HBK u-turned from his role as breeze domestique in Boundary Rd, but no Nath with foot repairs taking precedence. Weapon scored my Concours d'Elegance prize for the "pinkle" bike, with matching socks, jersey, bidons and even eyewear. The only headwind that sprung up co-incided with Cougars turn at the helm in Old Dookie (did she ride under a ladder or over a black cat?), but drove it well to the toaster. Yahoo and Pom took good care of the rear gunners' position, many soloists were oncoming before the arrival of a generous gathering of Gatti di Micci, well driven by Clive this morning. A k behind, LeighMac and a punctured other were left to the elements (maybe to catch up via Boundary Rd?) Our collection of Couldabeens rode to the rules (with a few un-noticed excesses) Rocket & PistolPete taking a monopoly at the front for a good distance. A bunch spilt at Numurkah Rd had Cougar to drive the tail train well, regrouping at DECA for a collective cruise to Rudd Rd and into the Boulevard, no back off till traffic in town slowed progress. Lemontree seats were being warmed by SuperMario boss and HBK boss breakaway belles, discourse on quotations, druggies and pole dancing over copious breakfasts and beverages ensued.
Overcome with a big case of C.B.F's on Sunday (inflamed and irritated by strong winds) it was Monday till a leg was eventually thrown over the bike. A short lap was enough studying last weeks odometer, many were out and about on the usual route in ones two's and bunches. Repeated the 6am habit on cup day with Cougar (keen for an early lap as work was on the agenda) spotting a more compact contingent of Cats for the public holiday. Cougars' strong drive back in Old Dookie returned us to town in good time to make the posted 7am Couldabeens ride. Temple, Trav, SuperMario, Shorty, Jase, Rocket, WhisperingJack, HBK, AvantiTrev and FeltMat were inspired by the later start (or the temptation of a big breakfast?) to roll away from the Archer carpark and down Raftery to clock an anti-clockwise toaster lap. Rocket was cruising but I was bruising on a keen start into a light southerly, a few rollovers and an ease of energy allowed recovery by Mitchell, had a nice tow till duty called again in the closing k up to Boundary. Pointing north, Nath and Laura came into view as pace amplified with a now SSE wind. An approaching Subaru alarmed many, noticing the driver deeply concentrating on an i-pad hand-held up on the dashboard . A more easterly breeze made Old Dookie a chore, more than pleased to relinquish the front to Jase to drag us up to the Emu. A few small bunches were now eastbound as we wound west, no speed restrictions had many nudging 40, HBK nudging the usual length ahead of SuperMario. Avoided the bitumen bumps in Ford and drove on to Wanganui, a split (for traffic at Numurkah Rd) had the throttle off till Nath and Laura re-attached. Rocket and Shorty bolted on the Boulevard (coffee craving?) but soon slowed to have a collective cruise into town, a focus on pink clad walkers distracting navigation a little. An infusion of carbohydrates and caffine made a great tank filler to 90k.
Felt like a mild morning until a few k's down the road, short knicks and fingerless gloves were a bit too optomistic for 6 degrees on Wednesday. Wondered if many had played too hard on yesterdays Cup day, only Cougar at the start. Eventually others rolled in, Rocket, Temple. Nick, Jase, Pom, Shorty, even BigMat made the pilgrimage from Mooroopna (and his social functions). Off at 6 and on the gas with Rocket's pace awaking many senses early. BigMat followed suit with Jase for the first leg of Mitchell Rd, a little calmer when others rolled. Shorty's excess Cup hydration had taken the edge off his tempo (WhisperingJacks must have halted) but it was adequate for an unknown male and female to take the liberty of a tow by the bunch. Pom's putting in a decent comeback but nursing injuries may prevent a turn for a while. A good drive up Boundary, 51 & co approaching River at warp speed as we crossed the intersection. A little easier bearing west in Channel Rd, reeling in the breakaway lasses at the kinder, the abbreviated Wednesday lap finished in record time at Archer, left and right factions seperating for the roll home.
Let the young guns do their fast thing on a mild Thursday morning, a shorter lap with a bit less stress suited better. Maybe 'fossilisation' is taking hold, it's becoming harder to put in two quick laps in a day lately. Plenty of southbound champions hit Boundary Rd with a mild 13 degrees to enjoy (a tad of tail wind a bonus?) Puddytats aplenty driven by Tina (is that allowed?), a chirpy greeting from the P&W bunch, a dozen silent Goats and a grinningTommygun was a broad variety. Cougar hit the gas again in Old Dookie to spike the graph, flags flapping (ENE) are better seen at the end than torment the mind beforehand.
Summer arrived with avengence Thursday arvo, 32 degrees and humidity in heaps for the usual thrash with the library bunch. Robbo, Nath, Dalton, Clive, Rocket, Mitch, Paul and Simmo lined up, Gav the suprise emergence from a lengthy hibernation to blow some cobwebs off. At the third stroke it was Robbo who rolled away on the dot, caught a few napping in a chase to group up for the exit from town. Rudd and Wanganui were tackled at a fair clip, a sleeveless LegalSteve caught in the opening stage of Ford. Rocket and Robbo were comparing kilowatts along Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd (a bit more loose gravel atop the recent reseal peppered the legs) Steve, Trent, Trudy and others joined in nearing the church. It was hard to judge where the wind was coming from, but it wasn't compromising speed. Sprinter & Gools attached in Boundary Rd, my turn at the front felt oddly adequate at 38 over the bridges and down to River Rd. Mitch was measuring Rocket by the dip, talk ceased to maintain mid fourties for a few clicks. Velocity settled in Central Kialla and Mitchell Rd's, but petrol was thrown on the fire out of Roubaix with the big guns loaded for target shooting. Steve, Robbo, Mitch and Rocket ramped up proceedings into the high 40's with 2k to go, I was happy to keep out of rotations at that rate with nothing to donate to the cause. Many who ventured forward were selected for early retirement half way into Conrod, Dalton, Paul, Simmo & I colaborating to finish happily mid field, podium positions were unsighted due to blurred vision at 190 bpm in the mid 50's (informed later it was gold for Steve, silver for Mitch and a bronze Rocket inches behind)
Felt quite secondhand Friday morning, legs lax and toosh tired, the best prescription a short and steady loop (a pair of breakaways ahead ventured south and east) with Cougar topping off the week nicely.
Week 45 339km (Edaggee to Geraldton WA) YTD15,850km
"Never ascribe to malice that which is adequately explained by incompetence"
Napoleon Bonaparte 1769-1821
Overcome with a big case of C.B.F's on Sunday (inflamed and irritated by strong winds) it was Monday till a leg was eventually thrown over the bike. A short lap was enough studying last weeks odometer, many were out and about on the usual route in ones two's and bunches. Repeated the 6am habit on cup day with Cougar (keen for an early lap as work was on the agenda) spotting a more compact contingent of Cats for the public holiday. Cougars' strong drive back in Old Dookie returned us to town in good time to make the posted 7am Couldabeens ride. Temple, Trav, SuperMario, Shorty, Jase, Rocket, WhisperingJack, HBK, AvantiTrev and FeltMat were inspired by the later start (or the temptation of a big breakfast?) to roll away from the Archer carpark and down Raftery to clock an anti-clockwise toaster lap. Rocket was cruising but I was bruising on a keen start into a light southerly, a few rollovers and an ease of energy allowed recovery by Mitchell, had a nice tow till duty called again in the closing k up to Boundary. Pointing north, Nath and Laura came into view as pace amplified with a now SSE wind. An approaching Subaru alarmed many, noticing the driver deeply concentrating on an i-pad hand-held up on the dashboard . A more easterly breeze made Old Dookie a chore, more than pleased to relinquish the front to Jase to drag us up to the Emu. A few small bunches were now eastbound as we wound west, no speed restrictions had many nudging 40, HBK nudging the usual length ahead of SuperMario. Avoided the bitumen bumps in Ford and drove on to Wanganui, a split (for traffic at Numurkah Rd) had the throttle off till Nath and Laura re-attached. Rocket and Shorty bolted on the Boulevard (coffee craving?) but soon slowed to have a collective cruise into town, a focus on pink clad walkers distracting navigation a little. An infusion of carbohydrates and caffine made a great tank filler to 90k.
Felt like a mild morning until a few k's down the road, short knicks and fingerless gloves were a bit too optomistic for 6 degrees on Wednesday. Wondered if many had played too hard on yesterdays Cup day, only Cougar at the start. Eventually others rolled in, Rocket, Temple. Nick, Jase, Pom, Shorty, even BigMat made the pilgrimage from Mooroopna (and his social functions). Off at 6 and on the gas with Rocket's pace awaking many senses early. BigMat followed suit with Jase for the first leg of Mitchell Rd, a little calmer when others rolled. Shorty's excess Cup hydration had taken the edge off his tempo (WhisperingJacks must have halted) but it was adequate for an unknown male and female to take the liberty of a tow by the bunch. Pom's putting in a decent comeback but nursing injuries may prevent a turn for a while. A good drive up Boundary, 51 & co approaching River at warp speed as we crossed the intersection. A little easier bearing west in Channel Rd, reeling in the breakaway lasses at the kinder, the abbreviated Wednesday lap finished in record time at Archer, left and right factions seperating for the roll home.
Let the young guns do their fast thing on a mild Thursday morning, a shorter lap with a bit less stress suited better. Maybe 'fossilisation' is taking hold, it's becoming harder to put in two quick laps in a day lately. Plenty of southbound champions hit Boundary Rd with a mild 13 degrees to enjoy (a tad of tail wind a bonus?) Puddytats aplenty driven by Tina (is that allowed?), a chirpy greeting from the P&W bunch, a dozen silent Goats and a grinningTommygun was a broad variety. Cougar hit the gas again in Old Dookie to spike the graph, flags flapping (ENE) are better seen at the end than torment the mind beforehand.
Summer arrived with avengence Thursday arvo, 32 degrees and humidity in heaps for the usual thrash with the library bunch. Robbo, Nath, Dalton, Clive, Rocket, Mitch, Paul and Simmo lined up, Gav the suprise emergence from a lengthy hibernation to blow some cobwebs off. At the third stroke it was Robbo who rolled away on the dot, caught a few napping in a chase to group up for the exit from town. Rudd and Wanganui were tackled at a fair clip, a sleeveless LegalSteve caught in the opening stage of Ford. Rocket and Robbo were comparing kilowatts along Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd (a bit more loose gravel atop the recent reseal peppered the legs) Steve, Trent, Trudy and others joined in nearing the church. It was hard to judge where the wind was coming from, but it wasn't compromising speed. Sprinter & Gools attached in Boundary Rd, my turn at the front felt oddly adequate at 38 over the bridges and down to River Rd. Mitch was measuring Rocket by the dip, talk ceased to maintain mid fourties for a few clicks. Velocity settled in Central Kialla and Mitchell Rd's, but petrol was thrown on the fire out of Roubaix with the big guns loaded for target shooting. Steve, Robbo, Mitch and Rocket ramped up proceedings into the high 40's with 2k to go, I was happy to keep out of rotations at that rate with nothing to donate to the cause. Many who ventured forward were selected for early retirement half way into Conrod, Dalton, Paul, Simmo & I colaborating to finish happily mid field, podium positions were unsighted due to blurred vision at 190 bpm in the mid 50's (informed later it was gold for Steve, silver for Mitch and a bronze Rocket inches behind)
Felt quite secondhand Friday morning, legs lax and toosh tired, the best prescription a short and steady loop (a pair of breakaways ahead ventured south and east) with Cougar topping off the week nicely.
Week 45 339km (Edaggee to Geraldton WA) YTD15,850km
"Never ascribe to malice that which is adequately explained by incompetence"
Napoleon Bonaparte 1769-1821
Friday, November 1, 2013
Week 44; A headwind parable and Jamie's gymnastics
Thoughts rewound to ye olde days of early Saturdays, years ago leaving from the hospital, OC's from Kialla, 6.30 at the Peppermill, and now it's been a year of 6am Saturdays with this mob. The characters that came, went and stayed, the incidents, and how many litres of coffee? Time flies when you're having fun (but it flies faster getting older. A 50 metre walking frame sprint at the retirement home soon?) Improving weather equals improving numbers, a good turn up at the carpark of Jase, AvantiTrev, Rocket, Shorty, Cougar, Temple, HBK (early for a change) Patrick, Nick and FeltMat. Wheels turned at 6, Tims' wheels turned faster to join on as "all aboard" was called. A little lighter each week at 6 is a positive sight, seems an eternity since last putting in a lap without a headlight. 8k's of Channel Rd were soon finished and a little southwester aided the trek north in Boundary. Nath and the Smuggler attached themselves beyond the pub, Bomber then a small P&W party were headed south. I reckon it's 43:1 odds of repeating Old Dookie Rd on the front with Nick then Rocket ; sure enough, three weeks running it happened again. (note to self ; must break the assembly order next week for a little variety) AvantiTrev had the flash wheels on again but kept to the limit. There's probably a few wishing to up the ante, but there's plenty of other fast laps to go on. Doc spotted (near the Emu), several others as advance parties to the Cats, some in summer attire, some on a mission to the quarry. Down to the last stretch of Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd without the snap crackle and pop of last week, the reseal now swept. Temple had his lime green shoes spinning above the legal limit, many placing breakfast orders on his credit card soon pegged the tempo back. I scored the last of Ford with Nick, then all of Wanganui with Rocket at the pointy end, my Garmin showing the h.r. on the hot plate and about to boil over on Mt Wanganui. (missed pointing a pot hole in the effort to match Rocket, apologies to Nicks nuts, nastily knocked). Pace was unabated down the Boulevard but talk multiplied, pressing tasks had me take a Balaclava exit, skipping the post ride raillery, Saturday was sadly starved of social sustinance.
Sunday's insomnia with internal alarms going off at 3.45, 4.10, 4.42 and 5.05 was too much. Without a neural snooze button, it was a slow breakfast till the sun got up, then astride old faithful and out Ford Rd at 6 to start the day. Suprised by a respectable speed (no tail wind to thank) so pushed on the 14 cog to warm up the legs. A bit of a drag on that new coarse surface of Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd, but added 1.5km/h on the smoother stuff. Is there a subtle message when, on a random i-pod shuffle of 800+ songs, Flume's "Sleepless" and "Insane" play one after the other? Arrived at the Emu pleased with progress but the accellerator needed more push to get to the toaster (no reward of extra speed, just extra exertion to maintain pace.) Better heading west in Old Dookie, evidence of a southerly brewing in the tree tops and legs feeling hardest done by (usually it's a toasted ticker or limp lungs) A snake on the channel bridge spiked the adrenelin, noticing it flat was the relief. Motivating to get the town into view, finally halting the Garmin at SPC to finish 27 in 47. Put in a further 32k at a slightly quieter pace with Cougar, many now aboard two wheels and heading out Mitchell Rd. The southerly gained more strength on cue in Raftery to smooth the passage to Degani's, a long and relaxed coffee a fitting end to 60k.
Back on board Tuesday morning (Mondays weather better suited to ducks) with the wind blasting from the south (37-56 km/h) convinced me to steer an anti-clockwise lap of Channel-Boundary-Old Dookie, doubting the old engine would survive Couldabeens tempo in the conditions (and to leave something in reserve for Tuesday night). Cougar was on the same thought page so we pointed westward on Channel toward Boundary, arms working as hard as legs attempting to hold a reasonably straight line against the side wind. A bike behind was making up the gap rapidly, none other than Rocket (the sole Couldabeen) rounded us up, a brief greeting then off into the distance like the Roadrunner (taking advantage of the big tailwind too).
Much admiration for the small band of Cats and 51 in pursuit on their usual pilgrimage south into today's howler, with furrowed brow and totured limb the disciples would strive mightily with pedal, handlebar and crank. And tempted not were they by the sheltered byways of a short cut home. Lo, even though the tempest did torment them, thy faith and thy cadence would carry them through the darkness at great speed to the hallowed lands of Raftery for as much as to be soothed by the annointment of tail winds to its' end. And in the village they would partake of the holy sacrement of coffee and cry out the commandment to all that were laid in their mangers ,struck down with sloth, that thou shalt HTFU. A bit of westerly to the southerly made hard work of our Old Dookie leg home, bracing for the gusts on the unsheltered sections. Effort escalated till back into town, flags stretched NNE in protest, a short squirt home the only relief for a tough morning.
A few doubts of survival Tuesday night at the hands of younger and faster lads assembled at the Hospital. Axel was back after a few months crook, ToolambaDave on a new bit of Basso bling, Trav, Liam, Robbo and Paul (also on a new Avanti steed) the brave soldiers to battle a 37-50 km/h southerly. Trent, Trudy, OlympicSteve, Bomber and Sticks made up a dozen to bear east, saving the kw for what was to come. The reality of a head wind struck hard after the turn at the Emu, i'd inherited the front with Robbo by the Boundary Rd figfarm, the real effort of matching his 33km/h while the wind blew faster in the face drained the reserves rapidly. 3k's of that emptied the tank, glad to have a slow 200 metres while the bunch gathered after the highway then a short turn with Paul till the rotation at the bridges brought some relief. It's like banging your head against a brick wall, only do it 'cause it's lovely when you stop. Axel took the Channel Rd option, Steve & Trent had no problem taking a long turn to River, then adding a few clicks to the tempo in River Rd. A small brown ball on legs (pug dog) came a charging with teeth bared and savage intent but a collective yelling had it promptly OTA. Bomber & Sticks bid adieu as we appraoched Mitchell, Steve kindly tolerating my modest pace at the front till Archer. Collective sighs exiting Roubaix as the wind finally was somewhat behind us, into the flying fourties for the last two k home. In Conrod, ToolambaDave bolted on the Basso (albeit 400m prematurely) Robbo pulled the whip with 300 left, all of my 686 watts & 183 bpm could only muster 53 km/h when the cavalry of Steve, Trent, Paul and co flew by in the low 60's, humbling me to 5th, but not complaining, pleased to have finished, pleased to know tomorrows' breeze would be halved.
Acted as pit crew for Cougar's front tube change early Wednesday morning, repaired and back on the road post haste to reach the Couldabeens Kialla start, arriving to find a small band of five 300 metres ahead already into the pace, forcing a chase. Slowly yet surely reeled them in to join AvantiTrev, LegalDave, Nick, Tim and FeltMat for the circuit. Pistol Pete was all the way to River Rd before turning to climb aboard. LegalDave is yet another on a new bike, a stealth like Trek (a departure from favoured Italian machines) in menacing matte black with cogs for hills and a TT style rear brake under the lower chainstays. I took a long haul at the business end with PistolPete up Mitchell Rd, his trademark shoot off the front had Nick in pursuit for half a k to draw level. Our timing was perfect to let a long Cat train into River before we crossed (Eddy off the back none too pleased), three Goats a k behind at their own pace. We had a good run in Channel (Darth Vader soundly asleep at Sellmans) at a steady velocity, reeling in the (somewhat scattered) breeze girls at Orrvale School, Tim dropping back to check on his breeze boss, FeltMat homeward bound. Odd to head north minus the Rocket (occupied with family), but enjoyed the subdued pace!
The trusty old tail light passed away (aged 7) early Thursday morning, a change of battery twas too much for the old switch (spooked by Halloween?). Scrounged a tiny red knog from the bits and pieces box as a substitute, but it throws as much light as a candle. Dubiously and uncomfortably made my way to the Couldabeens, relief with safety in numbers. Kenworth, AvantiTrev, Cougar, PistolPete, Temple, Chris A, Tim, Trav, FeltMat and Nick made up the (Rocketless) bunch to proceed at pace out Channel Rd, a SSW wind ready to test us for Boundary Rd. Smooth and steady turns with just a k or two variation helped all to keep in touch, great to have considerate Chris and Trav (back to being a regular) assisting. A pair of Breeze breakaways were northbound on the Broken bridges, the Breeze bunch just turning from River Rd (in pusuit?) Easier on the effort for us in Mitchell Rd with the wind at our side so speed was dialed up of course, Tim getting the nods alongside Pistol. A bit of caution at Central Kialla and the highway, spying for cars minus headlights through the long grass. All travelled well with a long and gradual simmering of speed, out of Roubaix and up to the horse stud it was giddy up for the thrash in Conrod. Kenworth, Pistol and Chris took the honours (in that order), all others soon after in varied stages of exhaustion/exhillaration. (and they'll all be back next week to do it again for some strange reason)
The flash new tail light fitted Thursday arvo was reassuring, so off to do battle with the library bunch in a perfect 21 degrees. Good to have Clive and Harpo escape Mooroopna detention to make the pilgrimage east, Paul, Craig, Dalton, Jamie (on remand from Melbourne), Sticks, Axel and Robbo launched from town, OlympicSteve climbing aboard in the Boulevard. No speed spared up to Wanganui with Paul, then to Numurkah Rd with Dalton warmed up the legs and peaked the heart rate early. Sprinter and Dion were late additions nearing Verney Rd, LegalSteve appeared from somewhere on the brisk blast to the Emu in the 40's. OlympicSteve held permanent station (in the top three cogs) on the front left while one by one, nearly the whole bunch went up for their punishment alongside, attempting to match his 37km/h into a mid 20's head wind. What joy! (a 2k turn was enough for me) Finally, turning into River Rd, Steve took a break and normal rotation resumed. (Machine) The wind gusts increased and so did the gasps, but we finally reached Central Kialla to find a truck with trailer slowly reversing into a driveway. Arriving as the lane cleared, the truck suddenly moved forward, OMG's, FFS's and WTF's flew in abundance, bikes scattered, brakes were grabbed and the inevitable wheel touched wheel. Jamie performed a spectacular half twist, tuck, full pike and double layout on the Giant, judges scoring a 8.75 due to scraping a knee and an elbow on the dismount (into the grass) , the front carbon Flashpoint doing a Schwalbe dismount with a 20mm sidewall fracture. A halt to proceedings ensuring injuries were just skin deep, many on restricted time soon remounted and set off. Jamie pulled out his spare tube, just an MTB one brought about copious laughter. So with borrowed long valve 700x23, Harpo, Craig, Axel & I stayed and attempted to make a hacked tyre rideable with a scrap of canvas (epic fail). A wait then for Jamie's car ride home to appear, sledging filling in the time. Remounted and resumed with mid 30's on the remainder of the course and a squirt in the last 400 of Conrod (Harpo is being dobbed into ASADA for a fine finish), all thoughts through town were on stomachs and how they needed filling.
As has become customary, a quiet lap was planned Friday morning, for the first time in ages barely a puff of wind made for ideal conditons. A very long 5.55 Boundary Rd express (Supercats et al) steamed south, first class and economy carriages aplenty and more than one guards van i'd say. A small train (poop poop little Thomas?) was unidentifiable (maybe Aristocats?) behind them, but Sosso, Doc, P&W's and a gaggle of Goats were recognised filling the course. Borals' Mack was rounded up on our northern passage, Cougs inspired to pump the pedals profusely for a swift stretch in Old Dookie Rd, the quiet lap turned into no rest for the righteous but good fun anyway.
Week 44 374 km (Barradale to Edaggee W.A.) YTD 15,311
October Great Cycle Challenge 1953 km. (finished 17th in distance)
"When you get to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on" Franklin Delano Roosevelt (1882-1945) 32nd US President
A sombre post script to this months photo (at the top), recent stiff winds have finally ended the huts' days. Built in the 1890's, it's but a photographic memory now.
Sunday's insomnia with internal alarms going off at 3.45, 4.10, 4.42 and 5.05 was too much. Without a neural snooze button, it was a slow breakfast till the sun got up, then astride old faithful and out Ford Rd at 6 to start the day. Suprised by a respectable speed (no tail wind to thank) so pushed on the 14 cog to warm up the legs. A bit of a drag on that new coarse surface of Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd, but added 1.5km/h on the smoother stuff. Is there a subtle message when, on a random i-pod shuffle of 800+ songs, Flume's "Sleepless" and "Insane" play one after the other? Arrived at the Emu pleased with progress but the accellerator needed more push to get to the toaster (no reward of extra speed, just extra exertion to maintain pace.) Better heading west in Old Dookie, evidence of a southerly brewing in the tree tops and legs feeling hardest done by (usually it's a toasted ticker or limp lungs) A snake on the channel bridge spiked the adrenelin, noticing it flat was the relief. Motivating to get the town into view, finally halting the Garmin at SPC to finish 27 in 47. Put in a further 32k at a slightly quieter pace with Cougar, many now aboard two wheels and heading out Mitchell Rd. The southerly gained more strength on cue in Raftery to smooth the passage to Degani's, a long and relaxed coffee a fitting end to 60k.
Back on board Tuesday morning (Mondays weather better suited to ducks) with the wind blasting from the south (37-56 km/h) convinced me to steer an anti-clockwise lap of Channel-Boundary-Old Dookie, doubting the old engine would survive Couldabeens tempo in the conditions (and to leave something in reserve for Tuesday night). Cougar was on the same thought page so we pointed westward on Channel toward Boundary, arms working as hard as legs attempting to hold a reasonably straight line against the side wind. A bike behind was making up the gap rapidly, none other than Rocket (the sole Couldabeen) rounded us up, a brief greeting then off into the distance like the Roadrunner (taking advantage of the big tailwind too).
Much admiration for the small band of Cats and 51 in pursuit on their usual pilgrimage south into today's howler, with furrowed brow and totured limb the disciples would strive mightily with pedal, handlebar and crank. And tempted not were they by the sheltered byways of a short cut home. Lo, even though the tempest did torment them, thy faith and thy cadence would carry them through the darkness at great speed to the hallowed lands of Raftery for as much as to be soothed by the annointment of tail winds to its' end. And in the village they would partake of the holy sacrement of coffee and cry out the commandment to all that were laid in their mangers ,struck down with sloth, that thou shalt HTFU. A bit of westerly to the southerly made hard work of our Old Dookie leg home, bracing for the gusts on the unsheltered sections. Effort escalated till back into town, flags stretched NNE in protest, a short squirt home the only relief for a tough morning.
A few doubts of survival Tuesday night at the hands of younger and faster lads assembled at the Hospital. Axel was back after a few months crook, ToolambaDave on a new bit of Basso bling, Trav, Liam, Robbo and Paul (also on a new Avanti steed) the brave soldiers to battle a 37-50 km/h southerly. Trent, Trudy, OlympicSteve, Bomber and Sticks made up a dozen to bear east, saving the kw for what was to come. The reality of a head wind struck hard after the turn at the Emu, i'd inherited the front with Robbo by the Boundary Rd figfarm, the real effort of matching his 33km/h while the wind blew faster in the face drained the reserves rapidly. 3k's of that emptied the tank, glad to have a slow 200 metres while the bunch gathered after the highway then a short turn with Paul till the rotation at the bridges brought some relief. It's like banging your head against a brick wall, only do it 'cause it's lovely when you stop. Axel took the Channel Rd option, Steve & Trent had no problem taking a long turn to River, then adding a few clicks to the tempo in River Rd. A small brown ball on legs (pug dog) came a charging with teeth bared and savage intent but a collective yelling had it promptly OTA. Bomber & Sticks bid adieu as we appraoched Mitchell, Steve kindly tolerating my modest pace at the front till Archer. Collective sighs exiting Roubaix as the wind finally was somewhat behind us, into the flying fourties for the last two k home. In Conrod, ToolambaDave bolted on the Basso (albeit 400m prematurely) Robbo pulled the whip with 300 left, all of my 686 watts & 183 bpm could only muster 53 km/h when the cavalry of Steve, Trent, Paul and co flew by in the low 60's, humbling me to 5th, but not complaining, pleased to have finished, pleased to know tomorrows' breeze would be halved.
Acted as pit crew for Cougar's front tube change early Wednesday morning, repaired and back on the road post haste to reach the Couldabeens Kialla start, arriving to find a small band of five 300 metres ahead already into the pace, forcing a chase. Slowly yet surely reeled them in to join AvantiTrev, LegalDave, Nick, Tim and FeltMat for the circuit. Pistol Pete was all the way to River Rd before turning to climb aboard. LegalDave is yet another on a new bike, a stealth like Trek (a departure from favoured Italian machines) in menacing matte black with cogs for hills and a TT style rear brake under the lower chainstays. I took a long haul at the business end with PistolPete up Mitchell Rd, his trademark shoot off the front had Nick in pursuit for half a k to draw level. Our timing was perfect to let a long Cat train into River before we crossed (Eddy off the back none too pleased), three Goats a k behind at their own pace. We had a good run in Channel (Darth Vader soundly asleep at Sellmans) at a steady velocity, reeling in the (somewhat scattered) breeze girls at Orrvale School, Tim dropping back to check on his breeze boss, FeltMat homeward bound. Odd to head north minus the Rocket (occupied with family), but enjoyed the subdued pace!
The trusty old tail light passed away (aged 7) early Thursday morning, a change of battery twas too much for the old switch (spooked by Halloween?). Scrounged a tiny red knog from the bits and pieces box as a substitute, but it throws as much light as a candle. Dubiously and uncomfortably made my way to the Couldabeens, relief with safety in numbers. Kenworth, AvantiTrev, Cougar, PistolPete, Temple, Chris A, Tim, Trav, FeltMat and Nick made up the (Rocketless) bunch to proceed at pace out Channel Rd, a SSW wind ready to test us for Boundary Rd. Smooth and steady turns with just a k or two variation helped all to keep in touch, great to have considerate Chris and Trav (back to being a regular) assisting. A pair of Breeze breakaways were northbound on the Broken bridges, the Breeze bunch just turning from River Rd (in pusuit?) Easier on the effort for us in Mitchell Rd with the wind at our side so speed was dialed up of course, Tim getting the nods alongside Pistol. A bit of caution at Central Kialla and the highway, spying for cars minus headlights through the long grass. All travelled well with a long and gradual simmering of speed, out of Roubaix and up to the horse stud it was giddy up for the thrash in Conrod. Kenworth, Pistol and Chris took the honours (in that order), all others soon after in varied stages of exhaustion/exhillaration. (and they'll all be back next week to do it again for some strange reason)
The flash new tail light fitted Thursday arvo was reassuring, so off to do battle with the library bunch in a perfect 21 degrees. Good to have Clive and Harpo escape Mooroopna detention to make the pilgrimage east, Paul, Craig, Dalton, Jamie (on remand from Melbourne), Sticks, Axel and Robbo launched from town, OlympicSteve climbing aboard in the Boulevard. No speed spared up to Wanganui with Paul, then to Numurkah Rd with Dalton warmed up the legs and peaked the heart rate early. Sprinter and Dion were late additions nearing Verney Rd, LegalSteve appeared from somewhere on the brisk blast to the Emu in the 40's. OlympicSteve held permanent station (in the top three cogs) on the front left while one by one, nearly the whole bunch went up for their punishment alongside, attempting to match his 37km/h into a mid 20's head wind. What joy! (a 2k turn was enough for me) Finally, turning into River Rd, Steve took a break and normal rotation resumed. (Machine) The wind gusts increased and so did the gasps, but we finally reached Central Kialla to find a truck with trailer slowly reversing into a driveway. Arriving as the lane cleared, the truck suddenly moved forward, OMG's, FFS's and WTF's flew in abundance, bikes scattered, brakes were grabbed and the inevitable wheel touched wheel. Jamie performed a spectacular half twist, tuck, full pike and double layout on the Giant, judges scoring a 8.75 due to scraping a knee and an elbow on the dismount (into the grass) , the front carbon Flashpoint doing a Schwalbe dismount with a 20mm sidewall fracture. A halt to proceedings ensuring injuries were just skin deep, many on restricted time soon remounted and set off. Jamie pulled out his spare tube, just an MTB one brought about copious laughter. So with borrowed long valve 700x23, Harpo, Craig, Axel & I stayed and attempted to make a hacked tyre rideable with a scrap of canvas (epic fail). A wait then for Jamie's car ride home to appear, sledging filling in the time. Remounted and resumed with mid 30's on the remainder of the course and a squirt in the last 400 of Conrod (Harpo is being dobbed into ASADA for a fine finish), all thoughts through town were on stomachs and how they needed filling.
As has become customary, a quiet lap was planned Friday morning, for the first time in ages barely a puff of wind made for ideal conditons. A very long 5.55 Boundary Rd express (Supercats et al) steamed south, first class and economy carriages aplenty and more than one guards van i'd say. A small train (poop poop little Thomas?) was unidentifiable (maybe Aristocats?) behind them, but Sosso, Doc, P&W's and a gaggle of Goats were recognised filling the course. Borals' Mack was rounded up on our northern passage, Cougs inspired to pump the pedals profusely for a swift stretch in Old Dookie Rd, the quiet lap turned into no rest for the righteous but good fun anyway.
Week 44 374 km (Barradale to Edaggee W.A.) YTD 15,311
October Great Cycle Challenge 1953 km. (finished 17th in distance)
"When you get to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on" Franklin Delano Roosevelt (1882-1945) 32nd US President
A sombre post script to this months photo (at the top), recent stiff winds have finally ended the huts' days. Built in the 1890's, it's but a photographic memory now.
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