Saturdays turn-up was low like the temperature, another dip into the drawers for arm warmers and base layer may have signalled summers end. Only SuperMario, Cougar, Shorty, Rocket, PistolPete, RidleyTrev, Nick, HBK, BigMat and new dad Dion were prepared for the dark start at 6, maybe the sound of the 25km/h wind enticed some to remain bed ridden? My first shift on the front (again) was physically second hand, at least the BM is running like new without a squeak or rattle. Started to come good a few turns later, the now customary banter drenched in sarcasm with HBK, overwhelmed by the exhuberance of his own gratification. BigMat on a sit back with an entry in the Vets Open on Sunday, saving a little leg power for the hills. A keen southerly propelled us up Boundary into the infringement zone which seems to have been abandoned of late. The usual long stretch up Old Dookie with an aromatic end, around the toaster and a wind assisted leg to the north, finding 4 Cats oncoming in Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd, way ahead of their pack. Darkness is still with us at the kennels, just a few faces visible among the blur of 30 odd felines outbound to the Emu. HBK had the usual half bike on SuperMario, to his credit tenacious to the end, despite HBK making a roll over difficult. PistolPete punctured just beyond Doyles, many appreciating the chance to lower heart rates and absorb more oxygen. All were back on track a few minutes later, gradually up to speed for the last of Ford an an attack on Wanganui. Into Rudd and into the head wind, second wheel to Rocket and HBK spelt pain, but the Saturday socialist agenda stuck without a sprint, not that there was anything left to give in my legs (but stuck a half wheel ahead of HBK on the line anyway to claim a win) The Lemontree even had heaters ablaze to ward off the 12 degree chill, chat on Goat defectors, the Vet Open starting grid and speedos (not the swimmers) occupied tongues, Dion double dipping, exiting with the Muppet / Gazelle / Goat tribe.
Rigor mortis had set in Sunday, becoming commonplace lately. Running a bit flat in recent weeks, the bell tolls on 300 bike k's a week + 100k a week on foot at work. Maybe time to let the old engine recouperate? Monday's lap was a short and quiet one, just enough to loosen up in preparation for the bike and working week. Even the Fizik felt foreign after a day off.
A mild 18 degree Tuesday inspired a trip to the Couldabeens start, the favourable light northeasterly brought out SuperMario, Nick, Trav, Rocket, Cougar, PistolPete, Kenworth, BigMat, Temple, RidleyTrev, WobblyTrev and Shane. My early arrival meant taking the first wind resisted shift with BigMat, a big effort recording 210 bpm and unable to match him (told later that Big Mat was only trying to match me!) There appeared to be no draft till on the roll up right side of the bunch, thankfully I was spared another turn till the southbound leg of Boundary with the wind now favourable. Several took a permanent rear seat as the bunch steamed into Mitchell Rd, Kenworth muttered something about no draft from greyhounds, SuperMario comically calling "slowing" as he went up for duty at the front. BigMat was suffering Dookie legs syndrome (a big dip on Sunday's Vets Open), Temple quoting there was no rest for the wicked as we nudged 40. A clean sweep of Central Kialla and the highway, pace primed to pronto for the Arcadia Downs shuffle and warp speed for the Conrod thrash, well for Rocket anyway. Nice to hang on for a bunch finish just 40 seconds shy of the record.
Plenty of dark at 5.40am for the light to pierce, a southerly present to lift the heart rate for 6k's to the Wednesday start. Shorty, Shane, Nick, HBK, Rocket, Cougar, Wozza, RidleyTrev and WobblyTrev steered south on Archer, new roadworks causing caution with a half k of loose gravel (almost a rallycross section).
I'd had the short straw of the head wind for Archer, pleased to be towed for a bit in Mitchell to recover. Fasting overnight for a blood test has the "empty tank" psychology primed. Another big SuperCat pack climbed out of the River Rd dip, 35+ at a guess. HBK was off the leash at the front, WobblyTrev taking a turn at the pointy end beside Pistol Pete caused a moment, on the limit the waskally wobbler went wild. Calm was restored on the Boundary leg, Channel Rd shielded from the breeze kept the wheels turning. The usual thrash between kinder and school lengthened the pack, Rocket dished out some taunts to HBK's effort on the last length of Channel, a record average set for what once was recovery day. The three Breakways had just halted at the bus stop, seems DarthVader had stirred their progress at Sellmans (mass complaints to animal control planned)
Windchimes rang a harsh SSW 25km/h tune on Thursday in the wee small hours, the pages of Vol 2 book of excuses blew about reasons why bed beats bike. Despite the case for the affirmative, a firm resolve was to do battle with the elements and the Couldabeens, so charted a course south to the carpark with chin on the handlebars. Kenworth arrived ,almost airborne on the warm-up speed hump, Rocket, PistolPete, Cougar, SuperMario, Nick, Wozza and RidleyTrev made less spectacular entrances. Early arrival paid the price of first turn again, Kenworth's pace to equal today, at least shielded from the breeze. Gave it a good go yet the next few seemed to have way better pace. Nath was found at the top of Channel Rd, luck would have my next go at the front into 3k's of headwind in Boundary Rd. I was about to call Kenworth over after a fair shift at the business end of the pack when he offered, grateful to get the big draft for the heartrate to settle down to achievable. Side wind played havoc on the steering in Mitchell Rd, SuperMario putting in a tenacious turn between Rocket & Pistol Pete, despite the tumbleweed sledges. Several k's of effort turned to sighs of relief rounding Roubaix to have the wind finally behind us, Rocket, Wozz, PistolPete and SuperMario took flight in Conrod (in a league of their own), Kenworth (slowly losing touch) was picked up and towed by us remaining to finish.
Eeny meeny miney mo at the wardrobe Friday morning, ye olde knees can suffer the 12 degrees in shorts (but wished for 3/4's out the road) Archer was off the list with gravelled roadworks, Cougar & I set sail in Raftery for a reverse Tues/Thurs lap. Conrod seemed longer with 20+ km/h of southerly, Mitchell was far more agreeable even if fighting the side winds. A few lights spied in Archer Rd and some a distance behind but determination drove us on. Bunches large and small were incognito in the darkness, i'd guess SuperCats (by their mass, 45+) with a 51 attack ahead of them, amplified by the snarl of wheels under duress. The pre dawn red clouds ahead hinted at rain to come, a distant string of led's spied southward in Boundary possibly Goats or P&W's. We collected a little breath on the assisted passage north to save for expenditure in Channel Rd, the following bunch steadily making inroads on our lead. Thoughts of a steady tap around was slowly evaporating into a chase, but smooth and steady reigns supreme. Luck was on our side at Doyles Rd with a break in traffic, 20 metres ahead of the chasing Couldabeens at the bus stop put a positive to the end of the week.
Week 9 298km (YTD 2,310km)
"In the end it's not how many breaths you took, but how many moments took your breath away"
Sheng Xiong Chinese 4th Viscount (Chu state) Zhou dynasty 1046-256 BC
Friday, February 28, 2014
Saturday, February 22, 2014
Week 8 : Rampant runners and a big lap done
It's been 7 months since rain stopped play (for most) on a Saturday, the three that persevered the precipitation spent the morning wringing out the kit and cleaning bikes. No enthusiasm to ride Sunday either (an early tune from the windchimes put me to sleep) A good gander at the Criterium though, Couldabeens HBK and BigMat in the C grade top 6, Rocket an excellent 2nd in B. Great work by Robbo and Bomber in the A, a day after an epic MTB event. A fair dose of chinwagging amongst the local lads and lasses socially gratified.
The creak and groan of lazy limbs Monday morning was only to manage a steady 25k, an attempt to loosen up the weekends' lethargy. Paired with Cougar to tap out the usual Channel-Boundary-Old Dookie course, a feral feline (not a galivanting Gatti di Miccio, one with fur, four legs and a tail) bolted across the flanks to put the heart rate into the next zone. Downscaled bunches today, many on Criterium convalescence me thinks, but Cougar had all cylinders firing with a light southerly motivating the motion. No wasted time back into town on Old Dookie, the flags now missing (along with the poles and the tractor shop) from the usual spot that spells the enemy's direction.
Sufficiently keen (and guilty) Monday arvo to put in another ride, joined Wozz to tap out a different lap, a change of scenery as good as a holiday. Eastward out Old Dookie and south in Boundary, pushing to the point of ouch (but not tears) to hopefully endure 50k's. Funny that the ouch subsides with perseverence, a slice of satisfaction that one's days aren't quite yet numbered. There's a whole lot of dry nothing at Tamleugh west and Karramomis, just an eye out for traffic on the skinny sections of tarmac, but it's hardly peak hour. A catagory 3 climb over the main eastern channel bridge on Karramomis Rd, the rotten wind swinging to us from a NNW to west. The long stretch of Central Kialla Rd seems to never reach Mitchell Rd (particularly with wind in your face) but finally into view for a turn west to the usual Raftery Rd return to town. There was enough in the tank for Woz to crank up a finish for Conrod, obliged, but 40 was flat chat. 28 degrees was a enough to ring the legs with a hint of red, sufficiently burnt the muscles to protest getting off the couch to go to bed, hopeful that Tuesdays Couldabeen thrash would be downgraded.
Almost a full house of Couldabeens at the shop in Tuesdays darkness, Jase missing and WobblyTrev could be an apology even if attending. 2 unknowns bore east 3 minutes ahead, our 17 set sail in Channel with a modest start to allow a traffic split in the bunch to repair. HBK was steaming 100 metres ahead but saw sense in the saying that fleeing is futile. Shane took a short shift, Kenworth, PistolPete and Rocket soon had the cruising speed set. The mystery Mr & Mrs were within reach at Channel's end, another pause to reform in Boundary when traffic delayed Temples trajectory. I had a keen eye on turns about to be taken by HBK then the BigMat / Whispering Jack combo, prepared for the addition of 5 km/h to the recipie. The anonymous pair ahead were consumed near River Rd and held on as tail-lights for a short distance I believe. My bike has developed a din in the low 40's, something for Nath to study soon (on cue arriving near the Mitchell dog-leg, but studying speed this morning) The BigMat / Whispering Jack pair bolted up Mt Nicolaci to silence the team (and score a 2nd for the Goat sprint #2 Strava section), SuperMario scoring a Nath helping hand to get back onto BigMat's wheel. Much motion out of Roubaix (airbourne?) and turns reduced as velocity increased, most went indian file on the kink into Conrod. Pussycat Phil appeared in the bunch, a few were burning up on re-entry, but a Rocket and Nath lead out let BigMat take the trophy.
Off to the Kialla start in the pre dawn Wednesday morning, having to thread my way through a collection of mobile chichanes (runners) occuping the McIntosh lane, all unlit and with little care (or brains for that matter), a brief verbal fracas on being seen confirmed their imbicilic iq's. (devil may care replies) Far smarter (and well lit) peeps on wheels were at the roundabout for the Wednesday reverse lap, SuperMario, LegalDave, Nick, Shorty, Cougar, Shane, Temple, RidleyTrev, Rocket, PistolPete and Jase to make up a dozen. The Breakaways were away 15 min earlier but pursuit wasn't on our itinerary, the welcome return of a mid week steady tap around to be savoured. The River Rd SuperCat express train was being mowed down by 51 out of the dip (caught and passed in Central Kialla, but a buster in Conrod according to Cat intel). Darkness was still on the horizon even when in Boundary Rd, a hint of north easterly arriving on cue as I got to the front. I'll have what LegalDave and Temple are having for breakfast, much motivation in their motion. AvantiTrev is yet again RidleyTrev as Rocket's Avanti is disadvantaged, so AvantiTrev has Advantaged Rocket by loaning his Avanti till the RocketAvanti is advantaged, so he's RidleyTrev again. A breeze assisted course home in Channel Rd put on some pace, the habitual squirt between kinder and school (instigated by Jase and Nick today) is begging for a Strava segment & title. All showed due caution at Doyles Rd, a strong turn by RidleyTrev on the last leg (plenty left in the senior tank) but no records being set for the Mexican Bonanza section, the increasingly populated Breakaways finally caught at Archer.
10 degrees turned doonas quite heavy on Thursday morning, just half of Tuesdays field braved the temperature and the stiff westerly, much contemplation of the cold in the months ahead till start time arrived. Only eight took to Channel Rd, Rocket easing back at the kinder to pick up a solitary trailing light (Chris A missing the launch time) while the bunch took a brief breather. Back on the tail winded tempo at the cypress trees, pondering the effort required when westbound. Turn 2 in Boundary with Nick was sensible (just wish the heart rate would reflect that) but the harsh reality of Mitchell Rd's headwind shifted my goalposts, 35 into a 28km/h breeze didn't equate to ease. (hopes wanted more but the heart, lungs and legs wouldn't deliver). Pistol Pete arrived fresh near Central Kialla to lend a hand, Rocket and Kenworth with the grunt to match him. I was ready to call my last turn on the Roubaix exit till Temple withdrew from active service, one more for the team at Arcadia Downs would be my swansong. Nick ran out of jellybeans to match Pistol (and tucked in behind) to leave me the task of getting past (touching 45) with a k to go. I felt a foreigner amongst the horsepower of Chris, Rocket, Wozza and Pete, unable to match their momentum could only offer a tow to Temple, Nick, Cougar and RidleyTrev for a jolly decent finish with a small crew.
Cleaned the bike, tightened the cassette (source of annoying rattle) and lubed the chain Thursday arvo in prep for a Library bunch ride, six weeks since last attending. Like the morning, only a small gathering yet an ideal 21 degrees begged for more. The 22-30 km/h south wester hadn't given up all day but Tony, Coggo, Luke, Robbo, Axel, Harpo, Clive and Oscar were ready for battle. The wind was a helping hand out to the Emu, picking up MachineSteve as we crossed Boundary. Young Oscar has all the right credentials, short, thin, musclebound, Columbian...and I drew the very short straw to match his effort on the front! (I wasn't born and raised at 2600 metres above sea level) A good steady roll of turns (with Robbo & Steve taking the lions share of the westbound) and plenty of work at the front with low numbers made it a good workout, Steve working Luke to a lather. Pace was simmering for most of the lap, no mad attacks kept all in touch. The compulsory Raftery thrash started at the horse stud, all single filed behind Robbo, Oscar and Steve as a matter of survival. A gap opened with 500 metres left, Steve off the throttle, Tony & I left to do the business in Oscar & Robbo's wake. Harpo cheekily took a late 3rd off the tow, all reunited and social for the post mortem through town.
A chilled 8 degree start to Friday, a change of scenery on a 51 lap (and held on to Area 51 for at least 51 metres!) Eggy, Tony, Mitch and the crew vanished quickly into the distance (with a feline target loaded), I ducked to avoid a low flying water crane in the darkness with a wingspan of an Airbus. Southbound in Boundary was a little easier on the limbs, the intention of a quiet lap quickly erased with a bunch to chase entering from Old Dookie Rd 1500 metres ahead. Crossed paths with 7 Couldabeens (with 2 Breakaways half a k in arrears) at the two bridges. A poofteenth of progress in pursuit prompted patience and perseverence, gradually whittling down 3 tail lights in River Rd. By Central Kialla had caught the triathlon trio of Comet, Stace and Sootie so joined in for Mitchell & Raftery as a fitting end to the week.
Week 8 : 330 km (Winchelsea to Shepparton + a Couldabeens lap) YTD 2,054km
Wanting to be someone else is a waste of the person you are" Kurt Cobain (1967-1994) US singer "Nirvana"
Capped off a theoretical ride around Aust this week, (you may have seen the place names at the end of each weeks blog) a little goal set for the hell of it. 12,564k's in 9 months highlighted the after hours insanity
The creak and groan of lazy limbs Monday morning was only to manage a steady 25k, an attempt to loosen up the weekends' lethargy. Paired with Cougar to tap out the usual Channel-Boundary-Old Dookie course, a feral feline (not a galivanting Gatti di Miccio, one with fur, four legs and a tail) bolted across the flanks to put the heart rate into the next zone. Downscaled bunches today, many on Criterium convalescence me thinks, but Cougar had all cylinders firing with a light southerly motivating the motion. No wasted time back into town on Old Dookie, the flags now missing (along with the poles and the tractor shop) from the usual spot that spells the enemy's direction.
Sufficiently keen (and guilty) Monday arvo to put in another ride, joined Wozz to tap out a different lap, a change of scenery as good as a holiday. Eastward out Old Dookie and south in Boundary, pushing to the point of ouch (but not tears) to hopefully endure 50k's. Funny that the ouch subsides with perseverence, a slice of satisfaction that one's days aren't quite yet numbered. There's a whole lot of dry nothing at Tamleugh west and Karramomis, just an eye out for traffic on the skinny sections of tarmac, but it's hardly peak hour. A catagory 3 climb over the main eastern channel bridge on Karramomis Rd, the rotten wind swinging to us from a NNW to west. The long stretch of Central Kialla Rd seems to never reach Mitchell Rd (particularly with wind in your face) but finally into view for a turn west to the usual Raftery Rd return to town. There was enough in the tank for Woz to crank up a finish for Conrod, obliged, but 40 was flat chat. 28 degrees was a enough to ring the legs with a hint of red, sufficiently burnt the muscles to protest getting off the couch to go to bed, hopeful that Tuesdays Couldabeen thrash would be downgraded.
Almost a full house of Couldabeens at the shop in Tuesdays darkness, Jase missing and WobblyTrev could be an apology even if attending. 2 unknowns bore east 3 minutes ahead, our 17 set sail in Channel with a modest start to allow a traffic split in the bunch to repair. HBK was steaming 100 metres ahead but saw sense in the saying that fleeing is futile. Shane took a short shift, Kenworth, PistolPete and Rocket soon had the cruising speed set. The mystery Mr & Mrs were within reach at Channel's end, another pause to reform in Boundary when traffic delayed Temples trajectory. I had a keen eye on turns about to be taken by HBK then the BigMat / Whispering Jack combo, prepared for the addition of 5 km/h to the recipie. The anonymous pair ahead were consumed near River Rd and held on as tail-lights for a short distance I believe. My bike has developed a din in the low 40's, something for Nath to study soon (on cue arriving near the Mitchell dog-leg, but studying speed this morning) The BigMat / Whispering Jack pair bolted up Mt Nicolaci to silence the team (and score a 2nd for the Goat sprint #2 Strava section), SuperMario scoring a Nath helping hand to get back onto BigMat's wheel. Much motion out of Roubaix (airbourne?) and turns reduced as velocity increased, most went indian file on the kink into Conrod. Pussycat Phil appeared in the bunch, a few were burning up on re-entry, but a Rocket and Nath lead out let BigMat take the trophy.
Off to the Kialla start in the pre dawn Wednesday morning, having to thread my way through a collection of mobile chichanes (runners) occuping the McIntosh lane, all unlit and with little care (or brains for that matter), a brief verbal fracas on being seen confirmed their imbicilic iq's. (devil may care replies) Far smarter (and well lit) peeps on wheels were at the roundabout for the Wednesday reverse lap, SuperMario, LegalDave, Nick, Shorty, Cougar, Shane, Temple, RidleyTrev, Rocket, PistolPete and Jase to make up a dozen. The Breakaways were away 15 min earlier but pursuit wasn't on our itinerary, the welcome return of a mid week steady tap around to be savoured. The River Rd SuperCat express train was being mowed down by 51 out of the dip (caught and passed in Central Kialla, but a buster in Conrod according to Cat intel). Darkness was still on the horizon even when in Boundary Rd, a hint of north easterly arriving on cue as I got to the front. I'll have what LegalDave and Temple are having for breakfast, much motivation in their motion. AvantiTrev is yet again RidleyTrev as Rocket's Avanti is disadvantaged, so AvantiTrev has Advantaged Rocket by loaning his Avanti till the RocketAvanti is advantaged, so he's RidleyTrev again. A breeze assisted course home in Channel Rd put on some pace, the habitual squirt between kinder and school (instigated by Jase and Nick today) is begging for a Strava segment & title. All showed due caution at Doyles Rd, a strong turn by RidleyTrev on the last leg (plenty left in the senior tank) but no records being set for the Mexican Bonanza section, the increasingly populated Breakaways finally caught at Archer.
10 degrees turned doonas quite heavy on Thursday morning, just half of Tuesdays field braved the temperature and the stiff westerly, much contemplation of the cold in the months ahead till start time arrived. Only eight took to Channel Rd, Rocket easing back at the kinder to pick up a solitary trailing light (Chris A missing the launch time) while the bunch took a brief breather. Back on the tail winded tempo at the cypress trees, pondering the effort required when westbound. Turn 2 in Boundary with Nick was sensible (just wish the heart rate would reflect that) but the harsh reality of Mitchell Rd's headwind shifted my goalposts, 35 into a 28km/h breeze didn't equate to ease. (hopes wanted more but the heart, lungs and legs wouldn't deliver). Pistol Pete arrived fresh near Central Kialla to lend a hand, Rocket and Kenworth with the grunt to match him. I was ready to call my last turn on the Roubaix exit till Temple withdrew from active service, one more for the team at Arcadia Downs would be my swansong. Nick ran out of jellybeans to match Pistol (and tucked in behind) to leave me the task of getting past (touching 45) with a k to go. I felt a foreigner amongst the horsepower of Chris, Rocket, Wozza and Pete, unable to match their momentum could only offer a tow to Temple, Nick, Cougar and RidleyTrev for a jolly decent finish with a small crew.
Cleaned the bike, tightened the cassette (source of annoying rattle) and lubed the chain Thursday arvo in prep for a Library bunch ride, six weeks since last attending. Like the morning, only a small gathering yet an ideal 21 degrees begged for more. The 22-30 km/h south wester hadn't given up all day but Tony, Coggo, Luke, Robbo, Axel, Harpo, Clive and Oscar were ready for battle. The wind was a helping hand out to the Emu, picking up MachineSteve as we crossed Boundary. Young Oscar has all the right credentials, short, thin, musclebound, Columbian...and I drew the very short straw to match his effort on the front! (I wasn't born and raised at 2600 metres above sea level) A good steady roll of turns (with Robbo & Steve taking the lions share of the westbound) and plenty of work at the front with low numbers made it a good workout, Steve working Luke to a lather. Pace was simmering for most of the lap, no mad attacks kept all in touch. The compulsory Raftery thrash started at the horse stud, all single filed behind Robbo, Oscar and Steve as a matter of survival. A gap opened with 500 metres left, Steve off the throttle, Tony & I left to do the business in Oscar & Robbo's wake. Harpo cheekily took a late 3rd off the tow, all reunited and social for the post mortem through town.
A chilled 8 degree start to Friday, a change of scenery on a 51 lap (and held on to Area 51 for at least 51 metres!) Eggy, Tony, Mitch and the crew vanished quickly into the distance (with a feline target loaded), I ducked to avoid a low flying water crane in the darkness with a wingspan of an Airbus. Southbound in Boundary was a little easier on the limbs, the intention of a quiet lap quickly erased with a bunch to chase entering from Old Dookie Rd 1500 metres ahead. Crossed paths with 7 Couldabeens (with 2 Breakaways half a k in arrears) at the two bridges. A poofteenth of progress in pursuit prompted patience and perseverence, gradually whittling down 3 tail lights in River Rd. By Central Kialla had caught the triathlon trio of Comet, Stace and Sootie so joined in for Mitchell & Raftery as a fitting end to the week.
Week 8 : 330 km (Winchelsea to Shepparton + a Couldabeens lap) YTD 2,054km
Wanting to be someone else is a waste of the person you are" Kurt Cobain (1967-1994) US singer "Nirvana"
Capped off a theoretical ride around Aust this week, (you may have seen the place names at the end of each weeks blog) a little goal set for the hell of it. 12,564k's in 9 months highlighted the after hours insanity
Friday, February 14, 2014
Week 7 ; A motivational meltdown and going O.T.A.
All was quiet on the roll down to sedate Saturday's 17 degree start, just the rattle of valve stems in carbon wheels to be heard (or is it loose screws inside a skull?) Goat Andy was a suprise Saturday inclusion, a reqiured early return home had him shift bunches. SuperMario, Rocket, Shorty, Cougar, Nick, BigMat, AvantiTrev, Dion, PistolPete and FeltMat took to the course, a rare delight to be minus wind (and flatulence for that matter). Breakaways were conspicuously absent, nothing to chase but the social stimulus during and post ride. The sun is noticably slower to rise in the past weeks, we're well into Old Dookie Rd before the sky lights up (it was squint into the sunrise on the first leg of Channel Rd not long ago). An inspiring turn by Cougar, the pig farm passed without an odourous assult, turned at the Toaster, past the church and a left at the Emu, big Shirms spotted aboard the TT eastbound on Lemnos-Cosgrove. Attempted a Cat count as our paths crossed near Boundary Rd, 25+ my guess, with some headed to Nagambie for a sticky beak at the SunTour stage i'm told. Suprised to find the Goats crossing Numurkah Rd as we approached it, an earlier start (rattling a few without the pre-ride coffee?) We'd arrived back to town in good time, temperature building inspiring an iced coffee at the Lemontree (refreshingly smoke free) though the ice cream may have needed another lap to burn up. Chat on TDU, the Sun Tour and Schapelle soaked up a social 40 minutes, Muppets departed with WobblyTrev attached.
A sabbath Sunday, Monday morning's 5am routine was sluggish, needed RedBull (not Ritolin) on the Rice Bubbles, C4 (not Cerapax) in the coffee and motivation (not Mogodon) on the Muesli. All too easy to abandon plans and sneak an extra hours snooze instead of turning the wheels over. Guilty from the morning's lethargy, ran an the idea of an arvo lap past Wozza who agreed an attempt on a clockwise Toaster, the fine print being 34 degrees with a south westerly to fight. Smooth sailing out the Boulevard and tolerable eastward, another bike or two on the way back to town meant we weren't the only balmy ones. Pondered the hurt heading south on the eastward way to the Emu, the reality lived up to expectation, well and truely toasted by the Toaster, a 174 heart rate at 30k's. Only a slight reprive on the west leg to Boundary, my turn to bear the side wind after Wozza acted as windbreak prior. Another battle for Boundary Rd, little shelter from the trees. Abbreviation of our intended course had no argument, Channel chosen to shorten the torment, fighting a stitch for most of it's length still in the high 170's (bpm) to maintain low 30's (km/h). Almost a relief at home to read the BOM wind speed of 30-37 to warrant the efffort and understand why the legs were jelly.
Armwarmers made a hasty comeback Tuesday morning, 13 degrees heralded a Couldabeens start of 15. Shane led leg one, Shorty, Nick, Cougar, Kenworth, WobblyTrev, Trav, HBK, Wozza, Rocket, Jase, PistolPete, FeltMat and BigMat followed, each new contributor adding to the pace. Me and a few at the back were baulked at the Kinder by a car indicating at the last gasp, nice of the lads to wait for the reformation. To the end of Channel and pointing south, HBK stuck half the bike ahead of BigMat (who fell for the tactic), bumping all into the 40's and stretching the friendship. BigMat then Trav calmed the excitement a touch, pairing with FeltMat was still a push for the last k to Mitchell Rd. Short sentences only for the trek west, over the highway chat stopped completely. By Arcadia Downs there was many shaking heads to a turn up front, most keen just for survival as Rocket ramped up proceedings out of the dipper. Shane had burst a boiler 100 metres off the back, so I slowed beyond the finish line to tow him back to the clan for the roll through town. Just 1.30 off the fastest lap explained the limp legs. Tuesday arvo's blast furnace weather imposed a self appointed heat policy, a night off.
Just a hint of breeze from the SSE on Wednesday, a succession of semi's soothed the southerly spin to the Kialla Lakes meeting point. Shane as keen as mustard, WobblyTrev, Rocket, Cougar, Shorty, Temple (back from an attempt at NZ fishing) SuperMario, Nick and PistolPete (arriving in the first k) tapped south to Boundary with a brief pause at the by-pass for Shane to re-attach the battery to the headlight. Just a thin slice off the regular rate of knots today (no HBK, BigMat or WhisperingJack to silence and stretch the pack) with the accepted River Rd track to view passing peletons (not the 60+ bunch as witnessed Friday). Rocket put the hurry-up into the last leg of River Rd (faith in my pace or race on his face?), the sun a furry orange ball slowly climbing out of the smoke hazed bed. The wind was shifting in Boundary Rd to an ESE, helping the way home via Channel Rd. (Breakaways absent, a different course perhaps?) My holler for an unlit black car in the Doyles Rd darkness caught WobblyTrev napping, missed his brake and casually contacted my Cosmic, he hastily horizontal on the highway and hurridly up again to clear the path for an oncoming truck. No damage it seems, just a rattled rapport.
A bakers dozen assembled Thursday pre-dawn for Couldabeens cardio class, AvantiTrev was back (with make-up for the shiner?) and WobblyTrev undented. Nick, Rocket, ChrisA, Temple, Vince, Kenworth, Cougar, Jase, PistolPete and HBK (arriving last of course) set forth without wind to hamper progress, Vince sat back (on a recovery?) but there were plenty of contributors to the speed. Nath appeared at the top end of Channel Rd, slotting into the rotation as the bunch bore south in Boundary Rd. Jase was the day's whipping post for HBK's thrash, ChrisA and Woz had a steadier push to Mitchell Rd. I called a short shift with Rocket on the front (me miss-firing), PistolPete a worthier cranking comrade. Nath had paired with HBK to dish out some thrash back for Mitchell beyond the dog-leg, the extra 4km/h silencing the troops aside from the ever vigilant traffic reports from the rear. HBK did his usual retreat via Archer, I called another short turn to Mt Nicolaci, a bit of pre-ignition in my old engine today. A clear run over the highway, Nath taking a clear run out of Roubaix, things were getting serious with 2k left. Woz added 3km/h to the target tempo at Arcadia Downs, I had big trouble meeting the key performance criteria and peeled off the front in neutral, in danger of barking up breakfast (there are fines for an unsecured load). I was rapidly relegated OTA, red led's flashing into the distance with 100 metres of air my only draft. Swallowed a few litres of mental concrete as the bunch dissapeared into the distance of Wyndham St (traffic cursing a comeback), nice to have Jase, Woz and Rocket as waiting welcoming committee at the Lake. A bit peeved I missed a PB by two seconds, but I guess there are good days and not-so-good days.
Not a lot of shut eye Thursday night and awake before the alarm. Saddled up for a mild 19 degree early solo Toaster loop (clockwise) Friday morning, a light south westerly the only handbrake. Backlight off, the speedo was invisible so listened to the body (whirr, clunck, squeak, rattle) to set the tempo. Kept an eye peeled behind to avoid being a 51 obstacle in Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd but the guns weren't sighted. Made no ground on a lone and very distant tail light ahead, but was content just to tick over below the expiry level. A brief wiff of the piggery approaching the toaster indicated a WSW shift in the breeze, just kept tapping away in Old Dookie Rd almost pleased the speed was a mystery. Turned south into Boundary (spying a bunch eastward in Old Dookie), a little easier to the Pub but still mindful to keep a clear path for packs back. A glance back at the two bridges showed the following bunch were falling behind, a Rocket cackle ahead identified the northbound Couldabeens (Breakaways behind?). Caught sight of the mystery tail light again in River Rd but way to distant to chase (failed to pack enough motivation anyway), enough light in the sky now to show 35 clicks as acceptable. Keeno passed, pensively probing a puncture predicament, into the short straight of Central Kialla a brief halt to retrive my dropped bidon, then set about finding the cruising speed in Mitchell only to be halted by the highways peak hour. The bunch behind was now closing in, by Conrod, hot on my tail, half a dozen AristoCats and 4 P&W's mowing me down on the finish. Happy to chalk up 48k's in 1:26 to put the icing on the weeks cake. Amusing to pass the unhelmeted rider in Raftery Rd with five inches of plumbers grin exposed, would make an ugly bike rack.
Week 7 : 281 km (Mumbannar to Winchelsea Vic) YTD 1,724 km
"The foolish man seeks happiness in the distance, the wise grows it under his feet"
James Oppenheim (1882-1932) US poet and author
A sabbath Sunday, Monday morning's 5am routine was sluggish, needed RedBull (not Ritolin) on the Rice Bubbles, C4 (not Cerapax) in the coffee and motivation (not Mogodon) on the Muesli. All too easy to abandon plans and sneak an extra hours snooze instead of turning the wheels over. Guilty from the morning's lethargy, ran an the idea of an arvo lap past Wozza who agreed an attempt on a clockwise Toaster, the fine print being 34 degrees with a south westerly to fight. Smooth sailing out the Boulevard and tolerable eastward, another bike or two on the way back to town meant we weren't the only balmy ones. Pondered the hurt heading south on the eastward way to the Emu, the reality lived up to expectation, well and truely toasted by the Toaster, a 174 heart rate at 30k's. Only a slight reprive on the west leg to Boundary, my turn to bear the side wind after Wozza acted as windbreak prior. Another battle for Boundary Rd, little shelter from the trees. Abbreviation of our intended course had no argument, Channel chosen to shorten the torment, fighting a stitch for most of it's length still in the high 170's (bpm) to maintain low 30's (km/h). Almost a relief at home to read the BOM wind speed of 30-37 to warrant the efffort and understand why the legs were jelly.
Armwarmers made a hasty comeback Tuesday morning, 13 degrees heralded a Couldabeens start of 15. Shane led leg one, Shorty, Nick, Cougar, Kenworth, WobblyTrev, Trav, HBK, Wozza, Rocket, Jase, PistolPete, FeltMat and BigMat followed, each new contributor adding to the pace. Me and a few at the back were baulked at the Kinder by a car indicating at the last gasp, nice of the lads to wait for the reformation. To the end of Channel and pointing south, HBK stuck half the bike ahead of BigMat (who fell for the tactic), bumping all into the 40's and stretching the friendship. BigMat then Trav calmed the excitement a touch, pairing with FeltMat was still a push for the last k to Mitchell Rd. Short sentences only for the trek west, over the highway chat stopped completely. By Arcadia Downs there was many shaking heads to a turn up front, most keen just for survival as Rocket ramped up proceedings out of the dipper. Shane had burst a boiler 100 metres off the back, so I slowed beyond the finish line to tow him back to the clan for the roll through town. Just 1.30 off the fastest lap explained the limp legs. Tuesday arvo's blast furnace weather imposed a self appointed heat policy, a night off.
Just a hint of breeze from the SSE on Wednesday, a succession of semi's soothed the southerly spin to the Kialla Lakes meeting point. Shane as keen as mustard, WobblyTrev, Rocket, Cougar, Shorty, Temple (back from an attempt at NZ fishing) SuperMario, Nick and PistolPete (arriving in the first k) tapped south to Boundary with a brief pause at the by-pass for Shane to re-attach the battery to the headlight. Just a thin slice off the regular rate of knots today (no HBK, BigMat or WhisperingJack to silence and stretch the pack) with the accepted River Rd track to view passing peletons (not the 60+ bunch as witnessed Friday). Rocket put the hurry-up into the last leg of River Rd (faith in my pace or race on his face?), the sun a furry orange ball slowly climbing out of the smoke hazed bed. The wind was shifting in Boundary Rd to an ESE, helping the way home via Channel Rd. (Breakaways absent, a different course perhaps?) My holler for an unlit black car in the Doyles Rd darkness caught WobblyTrev napping, missed his brake and casually contacted my Cosmic, he hastily horizontal on the highway and hurridly up again to clear the path for an oncoming truck. No damage it seems, just a rattled rapport.
A bakers dozen assembled Thursday pre-dawn for Couldabeens cardio class, AvantiTrev was back (with make-up for the shiner?) and WobblyTrev undented. Nick, Rocket, ChrisA, Temple, Vince, Kenworth, Cougar, Jase, PistolPete and HBK (arriving last of course) set forth without wind to hamper progress, Vince sat back (on a recovery?) but there were plenty of contributors to the speed. Nath appeared at the top end of Channel Rd, slotting into the rotation as the bunch bore south in Boundary Rd. Jase was the day's whipping post for HBK's thrash, ChrisA and Woz had a steadier push to Mitchell Rd. I called a short shift with Rocket on the front (me miss-firing), PistolPete a worthier cranking comrade. Nath had paired with HBK to dish out some thrash back for Mitchell beyond the dog-leg, the extra 4km/h silencing the troops aside from the ever vigilant traffic reports from the rear. HBK did his usual retreat via Archer, I called another short turn to Mt Nicolaci, a bit of pre-ignition in my old engine today. A clear run over the highway, Nath taking a clear run out of Roubaix, things were getting serious with 2k left. Woz added 3km/h to the target tempo at Arcadia Downs, I had big trouble meeting the key performance criteria and peeled off the front in neutral, in danger of barking up breakfast (there are fines for an unsecured load). I was rapidly relegated OTA, red led's flashing into the distance with 100 metres of air my only draft. Swallowed a few litres of mental concrete as the bunch dissapeared into the distance of Wyndham St (traffic cursing a comeback), nice to have Jase, Woz and Rocket as waiting welcoming committee at the Lake. A bit peeved I missed a PB by two seconds, but I guess there are good days and not-so-good days.
Not a lot of shut eye Thursday night and awake before the alarm. Saddled up for a mild 19 degree early solo Toaster loop (clockwise) Friday morning, a light south westerly the only handbrake. Backlight off, the speedo was invisible so listened to the body (whirr, clunck, squeak, rattle) to set the tempo. Kept an eye peeled behind to avoid being a 51 obstacle in Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd but the guns weren't sighted. Made no ground on a lone and very distant tail light ahead, but was content just to tick over below the expiry level. A brief wiff of the piggery approaching the toaster indicated a WSW shift in the breeze, just kept tapping away in Old Dookie Rd almost pleased the speed was a mystery. Turned south into Boundary (spying a bunch eastward in Old Dookie), a little easier to the Pub but still mindful to keep a clear path for packs back. A glance back at the two bridges showed the following bunch were falling behind, a Rocket cackle ahead identified the northbound Couldabeens (Breakaways behind?). Caught sight of the mystery tail light again in River Rd but way to distant to chase (failed to pack enough motivation anyway), enough light in the sky now to show 35 clicks as acceptable. Keeno passed, pensively probing a puncture predicament, into the short straight of Central Kialla a brief halt to retrive my dropped bidon, then set about finding the cruising speed in Mitchell only to be halted by the highways peak hour. The bunch behind was now closing in, by Conrod, hot on my tail, half a dozen AristoCats and 4 P&W's mowing me down on the finish. Happy to chalk up 48k's in 1:26 to put the icing on the weeks cake. Amusing to pass the unhelmeted rider in Raftery Rd with five inches of plumbers grin exposed, would make an ugly bike rack.
Week 7 : 281 km (Mumbannar to Winchelsea Vic) YTD 1,724 km
"The foolish man seeks happiness in the distance, the wise grows it under his feet"
James Oppenheim (1882-1932) US poet and author
Friday, February 7, 2014
Week 6 : Seeking sedate Saturdays
Found Woz on a most comfortable 17 degree southerly trek to the Saturday start line, collected Jase near the lake on the way too. Plenty were assembling in the car park, Breakaways Shaz, Patty and Aimee starting with the bunch instead of their usual early exit. HBK, Nick, SuperMario, newbie Shane, AvantiTrev, Rocket, PistolPete, Cougar (multiple puncture repairs done & dusted) FeltMat, BigMat and Temple rolled away on 6 o'clock cue, a cool, calm and considerate pace to favour the Breakaways and Shane's maiden voyage. A social mindset today, quite removed from the sometimes frantic feel, discussions on aromas with Aimee and slabs of sarcasm with HBK, keeping a sharp eye on Shane's steering as a peleton foreigner (scored well with MTB and skiing experience). HBK was the king of Saturday spin, theory on improving his top end heard but not understood. My skidlid felt a bit tight from Patty's compliments as 16 toured to the Toaster, up to usual cruising speed now with the inductees being hapily drafted along. Nath joined in as we approached the church, Cougar & Aimee made a fine pair to lead for Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd. Kylie then Shirms were spotted solo eastward, a quartet of Cats reconnoitring a km ahead of the usual 30 odd Cat clan, passed near Boundary Rd. Turns at the front were rare with 17 to share the shifts, speed limits kept in check (for a change), a return to Saturday ethics seemed to be welcomed by many. Back to the Lemontree it was full house, warm-ups, smoke free zones, pedicures and an AGM were on the chat list, with copious coffee and bucketloads of bacon to consume.
Inspiring to read of Robert Marchand's new 1 hr track record set at 26.9km. Might seem a bit slow but a great effort for a 102 year old! Czech Ondrej Soseka has the all age record at 49.7km.
Wrestled with sloth to start early on Monday morning, the alarm clock's reality paying for weekend indulgences (I ride to support my eating habit). A 700 metre warm up was a bit short to start a Tuesday night lap on a Monday morning, an easterly wind to push into out to the Emu threw me in the deep end . Had to embrace the half cup full attitude half way out (kept the speedo invisible without a backlight to provide some mystery motivation) hovering around the 170 bpm hoping for a passing car for a brief draft (never came). Felt a bit worn around the edges arriving at the Emu, relief headed to the Toaster and a tail wind utopia west in Old Dookie Rd was somewhat spoilt by the aroma of a pig truck as an appetiser to the pig farm pong. Entered Boundary Rd 100 metres ahead of an unidentified southbound soloist, a mystery quartet heading north at the pub justified the madness of an early start. Chose a River Rd course (east wind annoying heading south) finding the Breeze bunch breezing east, albeit in silence. The soloist following me was now a distant spec, happy to see 37 on the speedo now the sun had begun to light the sky. Was feeling rather ragged by the time I'd reached Mitchell and swallowing an insect didn't help the respiratories. The h.r. was still between 170 and 179, wished I was 20 again to be at aerobic pace. Karnivool via i-pod kept the motivation going but there wasn't much left in the legs to give in Conrod straight, wrung out like a wet sock crossing the line but satisfied to have clocked a 1:16 for the lap and 50k before 7.
Pondered the conditions over breakfast Tuesday morning, strong winds were as welcome as a root canal but regret would be a bitter pill to taste. Couldn't reach 30 on the 6k ride south to the Couldabeens start, a howling head wind at 37 -54 km/h did it's best to blow me to Numurkah. Not a soul at the carpark to share the load, (sensibly in bed i'd say) so bit the bullet to head solo out Channel, passing an unknown rider lit some optomism (I'm faster than one at least). Wrestled with the side wind up to Boundary, a decision to tough it out solo on the usual course or make use of the tailwind was easy, mentally mapped a Boundary-Ford-Wanganui-Rudd course home. Cruising at 40, much respect and kudos was given to the 5 Cats and handful of 51's slogging south into a headwind. Had a slalom course past Hill Rd with a carpet of twigs and sticks to avoid (5 years now since the stick incident; still spooks), onto Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd bearing west with a handful of bikes pursuing behind, motivating a goal to keep ahead. Did a great WobblyTrev impersonation steering a 'straight' line homeward, wind gusts pushing wheels sideways, but satisfied to stretch away from the small bunch in the mid 30's to Wanganui hill. A tougher battle to top 30 in Rudd Rd, almost dying at the cemetery, better shielded in the Boulevard to complete 32 clicks at yesterdays average.
Despite a warm 32 and a SSE wind blowing, there was a decent roll up at the Hospital boom gates on Tuesday night. Scott, BassoDave, MachineSteve, Luke, Hamish, Tony, Dion, Wozza, Paul, Rocket & Coggo set off at 6, Luke and MachineSteve capitalising the front till Lemnos North Rd. A crook call for a car split the pack, but it quickly reformed with Bomber & Sticks added. Speed fluctuated somewhat up to the Emu, turns were long then short, fast then not-so-fast, finally settling with Dion & Paul as smooth and fast drivers. 22k's worth of head wind to the toaster didn't phase Bomber measuring Rocket into the high 30's, the bunch into overtime and silent keeping up. Trent, Trudy and Tony had swelled the ranks to 20 at the church, Bomber was still trying to wear down Rocket to the main channel bridge, Hamish retreating to the rear stalls. Calm was restored with MachineSteve and Coggo setting a less frantic pace in Boundary to the pub, chat resuming. Speed was slowly brought back to the boil in River Rd, Axel the last to climb aboard in its opening kilometres. Scott's turns were measured in metres, Wozza however driving long & well in the high 30's kept me focussed and on the limit. Timed my turn well to have Dion take the brunt of the breeze for Central Kialla Rd, it was the Bomber vs Rocket fireworks again for Mitchell's stretch to Archer Rd. A brief look back showed Houdini had made half the bunch vanish (an Archer escape?), just 9 left to tackle Raftery. A gap opened going into Roubaix, Wozza had enough to pursue (&catch) Rocket, MachineSteve, Paul and Luke, but it was Dion, Tony, Basso Dave and I Ieft to pick up the crumbs, just Dion & I at the pointy end for the last 2k. Nice to stop the hurt crossing the line in 1:10, made Mondays solo dip on the same course fair, just 6 min slower.
Thoughts of a relaxed Wednesday roll around are but a distant memory, will have to hang hopes on Saturdays restrictions for now. The roundabout was well populated, FeltMat, LegalDave, PistolPete, Nick, Shane (ride #2), newbie Andrew, Cougar, Wozza, Rocket, Shorty, Jase, Whispering Jack, AvantiTrev and Wobbly Trev speared southward to Mitchell, Rocket and WhisperingJack applying the go into Mitchell against the easterly (Jack on short shift). The now accepted River Rd route has the passing parade of bunches to view (much momentum with the wind up their Khyber), Shane took a turn up front into the breeze but burnt out a bit soon, FeltMat & I easing off a whisker for his survival. The north leg up Boundary was a little more optomistic, reward of a tail wind awaiting in Channel Rd had Rocket & Jack salivating for speed. Into the roaring 40's for the twists and turns of Channel Rd, catching a larger bunch of Breakaways (on a recruiting drive?) at Doyles Road. Rocket & Jase were keen to attack the Bonanza in ideal conditions, Wozz got out of the seat to join in but missed the train. Great work by Jase (54.7av) and Wozz (47av) to score Strava cred.
A dozen fronted the Couldabeens on Thursday, mild temperature and favourable (NE) breeze meant business. Aimee had missed the Breakaway bunch but braved the team up with HBK, Wozz, Rocket, Chris A, Kenworth, Cougar (out of Oppy uniform on a loaner Ridley) AvantiTrev, BigMat (chuffed from a credible Vets TT at the weekend) WhisperingJack and Nick, both warmed up from a prior 30k effort. Smoothly up to speed and out of intersections and corners helped for most of Channel, into the 40's for the last legs was going to test the relationship though, Nath adding to the wattage. Just a couple of k's faster when southbound in Boundary snapped the rubber band, Aimee OTA at the bridges (a top effort having a dip several rungs up the ladder), HBK dropping back to lend assistance. Jack hit the nitrous crossing River Rd doubling the length of the bunch, cracks appearing in the formation entering Mitchell. Wozz, Kenworth & I eased off the gas a little to act as tow trucks, keen eyes at the front had shaved a little off tempo too to get the team back as one for the stretch of Mitchell. Crossing Central Kialla, a Goat quadrella wasn't far off our tail, the pause for traffic at the highway had them into the mix. Our speed demons and Goats declared war at the horse stud, Cougar (struggling with tummy tensions) was losing grip, so I rolled the last k off the loud pedal with her to keep teamwork and chivalry alive, still logging a cracker time.
Took on a 5.55 Friday lap from the Kialla roundabout, would it be Faark Friday with HBK, Rocket, PistolPete, Jase, BigMat, SuperMario, Cougar, AvantiTrev, Shane and Nick? Darkness hid the speedo truth as we sped southward to Mitchell, HBK pushing the pace with Rocket (now on the loaner Ridley) while most hung on in silence. I really struggled eastward in the short leg of Mitchell, almost spat off the back. A deflating tyre maybe? (later Garmin observations of 37km/h into 20km/h headwinds were to blame, nought but soft is the reason) Up to River Rd a lone bike was parked in the weeds (a natural break?), the Breakaways were visible ahead with Suzie off the back minus headlight volts and Shaz dropping back to light the way. Patty startled as we passed, Shane (on ride #3) now wary of repeating Wednesdays blown gasket. The easterly made a fair grind up to Boundary (lots of Freaky Friday contenders taking the sensible direction, some seem to lack the sensibility of using headlights though?) as I attempted the impossible, a draft off the low AvantiTrev. Some relief in Boundary and a mission of speed in Channel, roaring 40's again, me trying to act as joining link to those holding on (apologies for subsonic pace to those wishing supersonic). No further attempt on the Mexican Bonanza, pleasing to have a united finish for the week.
Week 6 : 319k's (Coonalpyn S.A. to Mumbannar Vic) YTD 1,443km
"The saddest thing I can imagine is to get used to luxury" Charlie Chaplin (1889-1977) US Actor/Comedian
Inspiring to read of Robert Marchand's new 1 hr track record set at 26.9km. Might seem a bit slow but a great effort for a 102 year old! Czech Ondrej Soseka has the all age record at 49.7km.
Wrestled with sloth to start early on Monday morning, the alarm clock's reality paying for weekend indulgences (I ride to support my eating habit). A 700 metre warm up was a bit short to start a Tuesday night lap on a Monday morning, an easterly wind to push into out to the Emu threw me in the deep end . Had to embrace the half cup full attitude half way out (kept the speedo invisible without a backlight to provide some mystery motivation) hovering around the 170 bpm hoping for a passing car for a brief draft (never came). Felt a bit worn around the edges arriving at the Emu, relief headed to the Toaster and a tail wind utopia west in Old Dookie Rd was somewhat spoilt by the aroma of a pig truck as an appetiser to the pig farm pong. Entered Boundary Rd 100 metres ahead of an unidentified southbound soloist, a mystery quartet heading north at the pub justified the madness of an early start. Chose a River Rd course (east wind annoying heading south) finding the Breeze bunch breezing east, albeit in silence. The soloist following me was now a distant spec, happy to see 37 on the speedo now the sun had begun to light the sky. Was feeling rather ragged by the time I'd reached Mitchell and swallowing an insect didn't help the respiratories. The h.r. was still between 170 and 179, wished I was 20 again to be at aerobic pace. Karnivool via i-pod kept the motivation going but there wasn't much left in the legs to give in Conrod straight, wrung out like a wet sock crossing the line but satisfied to have clocked a 1:16 for the lap and 50k before 7.
Pondered the conditions over breakfast Tuesday morning, strong winds were as welcome as a root canal but regret would be a bitter pill to taste. Couldn't reach 30 on the 6k ride south to the Couldabeens start, a howling head wind at 37 -54 km/h did it's best to blow me to Numurkah. Not a soul at the carpark to share the load, (sensibly in bed i'd say) so bit the bullet to head solo out Channel, passing an unknown rider lit some optomism (I'm faster than one at least). Wrestled with the side wind up to Boundary, a decision to tough it out solo on the usual course or make use of the tailwind was easy, mentally mapped a Boundary-Ford-Wanganui-Rudd course home. Cruising at 40, much respect and kudos was given to the 5 Cats and handful of 51's slogging south into a headwind. Had a slalom course past Hill Rd with a carpet of twigs and sticks to avoid (5 years now since the stick incident; still spooks), onto Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd bearing west with a handful of bikes pursuing behind, motivating a goal to keep ahead. Did a great WobblyTrev impersonation steering a 'straight' line homeward, wind gusts pushing wheels sideways, but satisfied to stretch away from the small bunch in the mid 30's to Wanganui hill. A tougher battle to top 30 in Rudd Rd, almost dying at the cemetery, better shielded in the Boulevard to complete 32 clicks at yesterdays average.
Despite a warm 32 and a SSE wind blowing, there was a decent roll up at the Hospital boom gates on Tuesday night. Scott, BassoDave, MachineSteve, Luke, Hamish, Tony, Dion, Wozza, Paul, Rocket & Coggo set off at 6, Luke and MachineSteve capitalising the front till Lemnos North Rd. A crook call for a car split the pack, but it quickly reformed with Bomber & Sticks added. Speed fluctuated somewhat up to the Emu, turns were long then short, fast then not-so-fast, finally settling with Dion & Paul as smooth and fast drivers. 22k's worth of head wind to the toaster didn't phase Bomber measuring Rocket into the high 30's, the bunch into overtime and silent keeping up. Trent, Trudy and Tony had swelled the ranks to 20 at the church, Bomber was still trying to wear down Rocket to the main channel bridge, Hamish retreating to the rear stalls. Calm was restored with MachineSteve and Coggo setting a less frantic pace in Boundary to the pub, chat resuming. Speed was slowly brought back to the boil in River Rd, Axel the last to climb aboard in its opening kilometres. Scott's turns were measured in metres, Wozza however driving long & well in the high 30's kept me focussed and on the limit. Timed my turn well to have Dion take the brunt of the breeze for Central Kialla Rd, it was the Bomber vs Rocket fireworks again for Mitchell's stretch to Archer Rd. A brief look back showed Houdini had made half the bunch vanish (an Archer escape?), just 9 left to tackle Raftery. A gap opened going into Roubaix, Wozza had enough to pursue (&catch) Rocket, MachineSteve, Paul and Luke, but it was Dion, Tony, Basso Dave and I Ieft to pick up the crumbs, just Dion & I at the pointy end for the last 2k. Nice to stop the hurt crossing the line in 1:10, made Mondays solo dip on the same course fair, just 6 min slower.
Thoughts of a relaxed Wednesday roll around are but a distant memory, will have to hang hopes on Saturdays restrictions for now. The roundabout was well populated, FeltMat, LegalDave, PistolPete, Nick, Shane (ride #2), newbie Andrew, Cougar, Wozza, Rocket, Shorty, Jase, Whispering Jack, AvantiTrev and Wobbly Trev speared southward to Mitchell, Rocket and WhisperingJack applying the go into Mitchell against the easterly (Jack on short shift). The now accepted River Rd route has the passing parade of bunches to view (much momentum with the wind up their Khyber), Shane took a turn up front into the breeze but burnt out a bit soon, FeltMat & I easing off a whisker for his survival. The north leg up Boundary was a little more optomistic, reward of a tail wind awaiting in Channel Rd had Rocket & Jack salivating for speed. Into the roaring 40's for the twists and turns of Channel Rd, catching a larger bunch of Breakaways (on a recruiting drive?) at Doyles Road. Rocket & Jase were keen to attack the Bonanza in ideal conditions, Wozz got out of the seat to join in but missed the train. Great work by Jase (54.7av) and Wozz (47av) to score Strava cred.
A dozen fronted the Couldabeens on Thursday, mild temperature and favourable (NE) breeze meant business. Aimee had missed the Breakaway bunch but braved the team up with HBK, Wozz, Rocket, Chris A, Kenworth, Cougar (out of Oppy uniform on a loaner Ridley) AvantiTrev, BigMat (chuffed from a credible Vets TT at the weekend) WhisperingJack and Nick, both warmed up from a prior 30k effort. Smoothly up to speed and out of intersections and corners helped for most of Channel, into the 40's for the last legs was going to test the relationship though, Nath adding to the wattage. Just a couple of k's faster when southbound in Boundary snapped the rubber band, Aimee OTA at the bridges (a top effort having a dip several rungs up the ladder), HBK dropping back to lend assistance. Jack hit the nitrous crossing River Rd doubling the length of the bunch, cracks appearing in the formation entering Mitchell. Wozz, Kenworth & I eased off the gas a little to act as tow trucks, keen eyes at the front had shaved a little off tempo too to get the team back as one for the stretch of Mitchell. Crossing Central Kialla, a Goat quadrella wasn't far off our tail, the pause for traffic at the highway had them into the mix. Our speed demons and Goats declared war at the horse stud, Cougar (struggling with tummy tensions) was losing grip, so I rolled the last k off the loud pedal with her to keep teamwork and chivalry alive, still logging a cracker time.
Took on a 5.55 Friday lap from the Kialla roundabout, would it be Faark Friday with HBK, Rocket, PistolPete, Jase, BigMat, SuperMario, Cougar, AvantiTrev, Shane and Nick? Darkness hid the speedo truth as we sped southward to Mitchell, HBK pushing the pace with Rocket (now on the loaner Ridley) while most hung on in silence. I really struggled eastward in the short leg of Mitchell, almost spat off the back. A deflating tyre maybe? (later Garmin observations of 37km/h into 20km/h headwinds were to blame, nought but soft is the reason) Up to River Rd a lone bike was parked in the weeds (a natural break?), the Breakaways were visible ahead with Suzie off the back minus headlight volts and Shaz dropping back to light the way. Patty startled as we passed, Shane (on ride #3) now wary of repeating Wednesdays blown gasket. The easterly made a fair grind up to Boundary (lots of Freaky Friday contenders taking the sensible direction, some seem to lack the sensibility of using headlights though?) as I attempted the impossible, a draft off the low AvantiTrev. Some relief in Boundary and a mission of speed in Channel, roaring 40's again, me trying to act as joining link to those holding on (apologies for subsonic pace to those wishing supersonic). No further attempt on the Mexican Bonanza, pleasing to have a united finish for the week.
Week 6 : 319k's (Coonalpyn S.A. to Mumbannar Vic) YTD 1,443km
"The saddest thing I can imagine is to get used to luxury" Charlie Chaplin (1889-1977) US Actor/Comedian
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