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
Friday, November 29, 2013
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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