400 lumens speared the dark streets at 5.35, Mr Senior Citizen (John's dad?) was walking a ball of fluff, Mr Getfit Midlife was walking a pair of Reeboks, I was walking pace into the 30km/h southerly blowing up the road. And all this effort to get to a social Saturday ride! Enthusiasm dwindled reaching the start, 5 minutes to go and just two other players.....but 7 more emerged in the dying moments to share the load and share the bs. Trav, Rocket, Temple, PistolPete, Cougar, RidleyTrev, FeltMat, Nick and Shorty (back from hols) wound up to speed in Channel Rd, HBK and WhisperingJacks absence unmourned but cooling weather resented. Swore I felt a soft front tyre in the first few metres of Boundary Rd, Rocket (giving the handlebars a shake) did too, a road corrugation agreed as the likely culprit. Hopes rose with the southerly at our backs, speed restrictions ignored and a weekend ahead, the cackle and mumblings rotating with the riders to the toaster and beyond. A low Cat count for a Saturday at the main channel in Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd, a few following some minutes behind too. I drew the short straw of a head wind in Rudd Rd beside Rocket (but just 2 k to endure) , the Boulevard easier, tucked away from the elements. The customary post ride chin wag at the Lemontree (I'd managed to plug the resident nicotine chimney with a request for oxygen), Jase arriving in civvies for chat on Nath & Laura's news, the Deni Crit and the nutritional benefits of ice cream for breakfast.
Another lazy Sunday for me, but I dips me lid to Nico & the Fox for their bash at the Ironman Melbourne (9.52 and 9.36 respectively) and Coggo's go at a Nagambie-Melbourne trek. Comiserations to Wozza, he cracked the Tough Mudder but cracked an ankle into the bargain, now its a 6 week session on crutches instead of the bike.
Somewhat circuitless Monday morning, so a 'gone with the wind' go at a three quarter reverse toaster circuit. Straight down Wyndham St at 5.30 the flags were limp at the Motel but flapping at BMW, plenty of southerly to cope with outward and enjoy homeward. Had to perform a half nelson on my motivation to climb the long drag of Conrod, a bit uphill and into a head wind did little for my head. A very distant tail light on Mitchell Rd was some inspiration, 12 degrees out in the back blocks wasn't. Had quite a tranquil leg in River Rd, just the howl of the wind between the cochlears, clockwise rows of l.e.d.'s (SuperCats etc) not seen till Boundary Rd. I wasn't making any inroads to the distant tail light, sometimes visible from the dizzy heights of channel bridges then vanishing completely when I reached the pair of Broken bridges. It was E=MC2 up to Old Dookie Rd (energy = motivation by cadence squared) , well, 72 rpm is multiplied for me. Westward home I whacked an unseen pot-hole, ye old wrists suffered but the faithful Cosmics have coped well approaching 80,000k's use (376,635,237 revolutions for the number nerds) Back to town with time for toast before life at the coal face beckoned. A later spy on Strava revealed HBK as the elusive distant tail light, dissapeared home via Channel Rd.
I had to trawl through the drawers looking for optimism on Tuesday morning, overnight showers had dampened the playground to make a ride decision difficult. The hope glass was half full, the radar half ordinary, but set forth anyway on the glossy tarmac to a Couldabeens start, not a bike to be seen on the journey south and an odd spit of rain should have been a more than subtle hint. Only Cougar was brave enough to brave the elements, so we set off at five to in Channel Rd with some trepadation and many an escape route planned. We'd only reached Grahamvale school when the odd drop from the heavens became slowly larger and more frequent, the course reset quickly to Grahamvale Rd and Poplar Ave in the hope of getting home dry. We'd at least given it a fair try. Back into town the drizlle stopped of course, if only to frustrate. Home early, I'd just started breakfast part 2 to hear a decent downpour, diversion decision demonstrably deemed dutiful. Mr Ray O'Hope visited during the afternoon, blue sky and a clear radar put a positive feel to the hospital bunch.
25 degrees and a hint of northeasterly brought out plenty to play at the boomgates at 6. WillierTony (on a Specialised to confuse me), Harpo, Rocket, Scott, Clive, Juzza, Coggo, Kev, Axel, Paul and a last minute Luke made up a dozen to navigate the Verney Rd obstacle curse (intended typo), collecting Bomber & Sticks at the Ford Rd roundabout. Scott's two bidons of red jungle juice broke away from their very loose moorings on the railway line, so a brief slow for their retrival, then regroup. The Machine Steve, Dalton and LegalSteve joined in, delaying my rotation to the "rushin" front further, but who was I to argue, delighted to be towed along. Still a few wheels from the front when we rounded the Emu corner, six more punters were ready to climb aboard at the church (Trent, Trudy, Oscar and co u-turning from their anti-clockwise tour) I was fourth from the front in Old Dookie Rd and finally at the windy end for the last half k to the pub and down to Channel Rd with Coggo, then the drive to one-tree dam with Dalts. My H.R. was creeping to 180 when Dalton thankfully called a roll over, gasping (secretly) behind the big diesel to recover ready for River Rd. There was a steady squeeze on speed up to Trevaskis Rd where Sticks bolted to excite the troops to a mid 40's pursuit. Pulled back into the bunch by Laws Drive, Sticks used the brief recovery to attack again in Central Kialla Rd, more mid 40's till he and Bomber headed for home as the pack filed into Mitchell Rd. Just the second contribution to the front came for me (with Coggo) up to Roubaix, from there the big horsepower of Steve, Rocket, Trent, Oscar etc drove the train into the 50's with a dozen single filed behind. Four and a bit minutes of 175 bpm was chipping away at my reserves but I was suprised to find several contenders expiring early, I kept on at an even pace (with one jellybean left in reserve) to whittle it down to fourth, Oscar, Trent & Rocket (in that order) way too strong at 60+ km/h over the line.
A clear starlit sky, barely a puff of wind and temperature in double figures was all you could hope for Wednesday morning, off to Kialla Lakes enthused to put in a lap, SuperMario, Shane, Cougar, RidleyTrev, Nick, HBK, PistolPete and Rocket enthused too. Cougars troublesome light connection threw darkness about but soldiered on with 8 others to light the way. A week of a sealed Archer Rd was almost hard to believe, more roadworks (propogating a roundabout) must be part of the councils "dig-up-the-road-plan-for-congesting-traffic-scheme". Nick's chain did a dismount on the gravel diversion, troops rallied to regroup at the alt. route. HBK had leapfrogged to sit beside SuperMario's wheel, turning up the tempo to Mitchell. We caught Mr & Mrs Cat in River Rd (deja vu last Wednesday) and set about a steady slog to Boundary Rd with oncoming bunches aplenty. HBK gunned the northern leg with 100 knives in his back (40th birthday presents?) paired with Rocket (preferring to keep friends). Shane & SuperMario were putting in a good show considering nearly a week off two wheels for each, PistolPete's click click click (from a cadence sensor?) not quite my metronome. A few bursts of acceleration (proportional to HBK's presence at the front) kept all awake if the odd cool patch didn't. A longish wait for a gap in Doyles Rd peak hour (and the earlier wait for Nick's chain anomoly) hadn't dented the average speed too much, arriving back to Archer Rd on schedule.
The Thursday forecast came to fruition in the early hours, plenty of rain & drizzle dictated a rare sleep-in. A new pair of Michelin Pro4's fitted, noticing a rogue bindii lodged in the old front.(it served 8,500k well, but thin) Afternoon clouds appeared ominous, a library bunch ride decision was left till quarter to, many referrals to radar and forecasts to swing the result. The darker greys were in the east and heading south so crossed fingers & committed to a 6 o'clock roll. Only GT Craig, WillierTony (on his Willier) Ranso, Juzza and Clive to start, all confident there'd be a few punters to join in out the road. Stiffy appeared quietly at the back of the bunch nearing the golf course, Mitch then Paul at DECA, only to have GT Craig puncture at Numurkah Rd. (he & Paul repaired and short cut the loop to join in later). Kev, MachineSteve, Trent &Trudy and lil'Tony were added to the mix on the road to the Emu (Trent, Trudy and Steve dampened on their earlier anti-clockwise loop) A good mix of machinery tonight, Basso, Oppy, Giant, GT, Willier, Cannondale, Avanti, Merida & Jamis, lil'Tony's Propel akin to a steath bomber. Paul & GT Craig rejoined with LegalSteve in Old Dookie Rd, many I'd guess were saving wattage for Saturday's Crit. but the pace picked up over the highway, just as my turn at the front came. Nudging 40 and attempting to match Ranso then lil'Tony for 4k took the wind out of my old sails....be tough, HTFU, suck it up, show no weakness, look calm (while legs scream, h.r. soars and lungs burst) This fast stuff was best left to more capable drivers for River Rd. Tempo was tamed again in Mitchell, Trent and Juzza restrained leaders out of Roubaix, the thrash waiting till the last 600 of Conrod (timed conveniently to my last effort at the pointy end). With little response left in my legs the bunch swamped me, no skin off my nose to roll in quietly second to last.
Limp of limb, jaundiced of joints and malnourished of motivation Friday morning, it was left to QOTSA's "My God is the Sun" to tow this bloke out of his nest. A number 3 haze filter over a recumbant crescent moon and a balmy 17 degrees minus wind put a positive into a ride to congregate with Rocket, Kenworth, Cougar, Shane, Temple, PistolPete, HBK and Nick for a "quiet roll around". Roadworks continue in Archer Rd, better now with an inch of gravel swept off to get some traction. I'd paired with HBK and his satirical sarcasm and was working harder than the 43bpm showing on the Garmin (crook connectivity I'm guessing). Twas a gift from the Gods to have Kenworth roll over to tow me in River Rd, reeling in the Breeze lasses as the umpteen Cat factions and Friday freaks wound west. The h.r. had restored reading 136, and for a brief moment HBK was actually the level bike king (photographic proof not available) but soon reverted to his half length ahead position for the push to Channel Rd. PistolPete's metronome is a little quieter, Rocket's pace quieter too to save some joules for Saturdays Crit. An overtake of Fitzy (?) beyond the cypress trees, (a brief drizzle from the heavens started to concern but then faded) then we closed in and passed an unknown rugged up roadie approaching Orrvale Rd. A left then right toward the school, suddenly we had the winter kitted bloke coming alongside to pass, but then sliced across my wheel to cut in. Abridged advice on etiquette soon despatched the inconsiderate interloper allowing the team to finish the lap cleanly.
Week 13 316km YTD 3,572
"I have made this (letter) longer, because I have not had the time to make it shorter"
Blaise Pascal (1623-1662) French mathematician, physicist, inventor, writer, philosopher
Friday, March 28, 2014
Saturday, March 22, 2014
Week 12 Cats, dogs and fickle weather
Week 12 of the year already (week 2951 on the planet though), not a soul on foot or at the wheel on the ghost town trek south to Saturdays start, just a hint of smoke in the 18 degree air to fill the nostrils. Copious chat on the starting grid as the crew formed, SuperMario, Dion, Geelong defector Stewy, Patrick, Wozza, Rocket, PistolPete, Nick, Trav, RidleyTrev, Cougar, Shane, WhisperingJack and Jase filled the ranks. A touch of northeasterly and paired up with Wozza (leg 1) then Rocket (leg 2) put my CPI into defecit, a draft for a few k's would help the balance of payments. Good to have Patrick back, 7 peaks challenge done and dusted, Stewy too, back on a visit enjoying long lost flat terrian. A bark from a dog turned me to scaredy cat at Sellmans, thankfully no pooch pounced to pester the peleton. Nath's jaw rebuild was the news of the day, a few titanium plates & screws installed won't slow him down though. Around the Toaster corner it was head down into the strengthening northeaster, just about on the redline up to the Emu with Rocket, one word replies to his conversation may have sounded a bit rude. (lack of oxygen Rocket, not lack of interest) SuperMario was the filling in the WhisperingJack / PistolPete sandwich today, he always seems to attract the velociraptors. Pointing west after the Emu with a tail breeze homeward the speed limit was chucked out with the food scraps and Lance Armstrong jerseys, no comment from RidleyTrev (and no notes taken) on pronto pace. Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd soon became Ford Rd which soon became Wanganui, suprised there were no infringement notices issued tearing up the tarmac. Most could almost taste the coffee in Rudd Rd, I snuck half a wheel ahead of Rocket at the cemetery to claim a faux victory but scored a Strava KOM as a bonus, just a second shorter than Jase, Cougar chuffed with a QOM. We manoevred the masochistic manhole mayhem of Mason St to be seated at the Lemontree for chat on gigs, formula one and Kittels dummy spit, Shane tucking in to a decent brekkie.
Mondays drab atmostphere of low grey cloud, a bit of NNE and 14 degrees could have been mistaken for June, does nothing to motivate a ride but a long held habit is hard to break. A few Breeze lasses were forming up at the carpark as Cougar & I headed out Channel Rd, only the grey disconsulate clouds to look forward to. Small bunches today, maybe as motivated by the weather as me? A few spits from the skies at Boundary Rd's Fig farm suddenly painted a soggy future, but the Gods of cycling smiled upon us all by turning off the tap. A short steady lap to start the working week, back in town and still the sun was yet to rise. Using the helmet light through town a fair bit lately to supplement the fixed headlight, a glance toward cars approaching from the side streets seems to wake them from a slumbering daze or draw their attention from texting, drinking coffee etc.
A crystal clear sky lit by a three quarter moon made Tuesday morning a little more inspiring. I'd overdressed for the occasion, a winter base layer turning the torso into a sauna. Kenworth, Cougar, Nick, WobblyTrev, Trav, PistolPete, HBK, WhisperingJack, SuperMario, RidleyTrev, Temple & Shane rolled into the carpark but nearly all had single filed, casting doubt on my deodorant. Kenworth the only brave soldier beside me, fingers crossed for a good second pairing. WhisperingJack, HBK and PistolPete teamed up to be the three jalipinos to go into the hotpot of speed in Channel Rd, Rocket off the menu today. A light northwesterly blew us to Boundary Rd but dragged the cloud cover too. Resolves were tested on the southern commute and by Mitchell Rd retirements to the rear were becoming popular, down to 7 working the front till HBK's exit made it 6. Rocket's absence threw the possibilities open in Raftery Rd, a few gaps opening past Arcadia Downs and chasms by Conrod. As PistolPete, Kenworth and WhisperingJack opened up a bigger lead, WobblyTrev drew alongside me then inexplicably developed a rapid negative caster to the left, directing me into the dust (voluminous verbs veered the variable vexatious veteran vocationally viable) calamity avoided to finish upright. Could have done with the Minties (it's moments like these....) but recouperated for the social roll through town.
Not quite a Mallee bull, but feeling well tuned to tackle Tuesday arvos' hospital bunch (missed a few of late, had better put in an appearance or be struck of the register). Luke, Axel, GT Craig, WillierTony (a recent birthday but still a pup) Harpo, Clive, Rocket and Juzza loitered around the boom gate for 6pm to arrive, the self appointed/opinionated 'champion'' fronted for unknown reasons, was ignored. The customary additions to the bunch on the commute to the Emu included Sticks and Bomber, James, Stiffy, Dalton, not-so-GiantTony, Trent, Trudy and the Machine, numbers swelled with the speed helped from the 15 to 20 k's of west southwest wind. Bomb and Sticks hit the loud pedal south to the Toaster, shutting up many to stay in touch. Good drivers kept up the motion in Old Dookie with an ease in Boundary Rd helping many get their breath. A passing 4x4 near Channel Rd belched diesel smoke for us all to inhale, some now content to stay at the back for a free tow. The Machine, James and Bomber drove into the southwester on River Rd, I'd found myself on Rockets wheel and slowly working up toward the big and far more capable guns, wondering if this was the place for ancient engines low on power. Long turns delayed my promotion to the front till Raftery's horse stud (and I was but the tired old donkey), only capable of a few hundred metres with Rocket in the 40's. I'll remember GT Craig in my Will for a timely roll over at Arcadia Downs (before I bent a valve), the big guns now firing into Conrod with many like me shelving aspiration for perspiration and dedication in the closing 700 metres. The bell tolled for many digging deep at the front, maintaining a steady pace paid it's reward of my place in the front 6, albeit some distance from Bombers 1st spot with Rocket nipping at his heels 2nd.
Kitted in a lighter base layer for Wednesday (after Tuesday mornings sweatshop) resulted in another wardrobe malfunction, chilled by 11 degrees with a strong southerly to deal with. (Memo to self ; check outdoors before the ride!) Shane, Wozza, Cougar, Nick, Rocket, Trav, PistolPete Jase and RidleyTrev formed the pack at Kialla, PistolPete reporting Archer was now open (and sealed) for business. Just a few loose stones to contend with but the southerly wind wore down the motivation by arrival at Mitchell. Tail lights ahead were slowly being caught, a Cat (and his kitten) caught in River Rd just as the usual procession of bunches barrelled west. The east leg seems even longer with the sun still in bed, lights of smaller groups southbound in Boundary showing River Rd's real length. A short but sweet tailwind was relished to Channel Rd, then the heads down work homeward. A pitched stone from another wheel to my derriere whacked me a giddy up to match Rocket to the S bend, pacy speed to the kinder predicted a thrash at Prentice Rd which never materialised. PistolPete looks sedately smooth at speed, Wozza primed for the tough mudder in fine form too. Our bunch of 10 were soon back to base, split at Archer for the commute home, negotiating the test track of twists, roadworks and manhole covers of Archer, ranked a close second to Verney Rd's joke called a bike lane.
A real dose of winter on Thursday, 7.8 degrees to start the day, I got the clothing right at least. Just Rocket, Kenworth, Nick, Cougar, PistolPete, Wozza and WobblyTrev fronted, lamenting those lost to lethargy as the season cools, FeltMat, Shorty, Temple, BigMat, WhisperingJack and DiscoSteve all resting in peace as the die hards (desperado's?) fly the flag. Mr & Mrs Mystery rolled out a minute before our start, just the carrot for Rocket & Pete to chase. Caught by Orrvale Rd, Mr Mystery was clearly possessed by the pursuit, had quickly dumped Mrs (latched onto the back) to play with the boys. Order was restored by the kinder, down to the business of enduring the temperature, foggy spots and speed, even though my heart rate monitor was showing 43 bpm till the cypress trees. Mr Mystery was identified in the rotation, Mark (Mrs = Trish) somewhat against the grain of peleton protocols. Nick was nursing a niggling hamstring but soldiered steadily on, Wozza compliant sharing the front of house duty. HBK and Aimee were caught and passed at One Tree Dam, Mark & Trish resigned to the rear for their Mitchell Rd exit. There's at least 10% more velocity from Rocket & Pistol than most, at least they're playing ball with us mere mortals on the limit, just hang on when they pair up at the front.. Patches beyond the dog-leg were colder than Putin's politics but Pistol warmed us up by pouring on the power up Mt Nicolaci. A slow for traffic at the highway allowed Cougar and WobblyTrev to close a small gap, solidarity ruled out of Roubaix and up to Conrod, the Pistol & Rocket greyhounds then let off the leash. I'd dropped back to lend a tow to Cougar (and draw a straight line for Trev), pleased to cross the line with a 36+ average, a solid ride for just eight players.
It's the fifth anniversary of the library bunch (formed to escape the big hitters in the hospital bunch, that worked didn't it?!) so it's timely to attend. The car park had a fair collection of punters for tonights 6pm lap, Scott, Harpo, Juzza, Clive, Paul, Coggo, Hamish, WillierTony, Simmo, Axel (and newbie mate Pete), all enjoying a return to summer weather (30) with a hint of NNE wind. Paul parked the Avanti horizontally at the Balaclava roundabout, a late car call and the gutters' ridge undoing the balance, no skin off and (of more importance to Paul) no paint off the bike. Mitch was picked up at DECA, the Machine Steve at Numurkah Rd, Dalton, Trent, Trudy and more in Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd. I had a turn with Coggo then another with Mitch, watching the heart rate climb into the red, Clives' carbon brakes sounding like a baritone budgie on the turn at the Emu, newbie Pete now missing. Easier going south and west, the Columbian was collected in Old Dookie to even up the numbers. Pointing south, another go at the front for me from the highway to the bridges with Paul, Mitch next, picking the speed up to 40 to River Rd (4k's at the pointy end had earned my dinner) The slowly setting sun is perfectly pointed along River Rd these days to test everyones vision, in two weeks it will be darkness to endure. Speed was fairly brisk to Central Kialla and the westward leg to Raftery, seems I'd just recovered when another turn came up. A bit shorter this time, half a k with Paul then the same with Mitch, mid fourties enough to fray my edges. In Conrod the competent wound up the intensity, proportionally spitting out the hangers on, some had thrown in the towel with 400 left but i'd got on top of the 13 sprocket to round up a few, a rather distant fourth to the Columbian, Mitch and Paul taking the prime positions.
A very mild Friday kept the variety in the weeks' weather, the NNE a nuisance wheeling out Channel Rd, but Darth Vader's sudden invasion from the tabledrain was a bigger problem. Hard to aim the water bottle at a dark pooch growling at the heels in the dark. The wind was tougher bearing north into Boundary Rd, the Supercats, 51 and Goats were on a breezy bonus for freaky Friday. A restorative little roll around today to recharge limp legs.
Week 12 362km YTD 3,256km
"Money is a strange business. People who haven't got it aim at it strongly. People who have, are full of troubles" Ayrton Senna (1960-1994) Brazilian Formula 1 driver (would have been 54 today)
Mondays drab atmostphere of low grey cloud, a bit of NNE and 14 degrees could have been mistaken for June, does nothing to motivate a ride but a long held habit is hard to break. A few Breeze lasses were forming up at the carpark as Cougar & I headed out Channel Rd, only the grey disconsulate clouds to look forward to. Small bunches today, maybe as motivated by the weather as me? A few spits from the skies at Boundary Rd's Fig farm suddenly painted a soggy future, but the Gods of cycling smiled upon us all by turning off the tap. A short steady lap to start the working week, back in town and still the sun was yet to rise. Using the helmet light through town a fair bit lately to supplement the fixed headlight, a glance toward cars approaching from the side streets seems to wake them from a slumbering daze or draw their attention from texting, drinking coffee etc.
A crystal clear sky lit by a three quarter moon made Tuesday morning a little more inspiring. I'd overdressed for the occasion, a winter base layer turning the torso into a sauna. Kenworth, Cougar, Nick, WobblyTrev, Trav, PistolPete, HBK, WhisperingJack, SuperMario, RidleyTrev, Temple & Shane rolled into the carpark but nearly all had single filed, casting doubt on my deodorant. Kenworth the only brave soldier beside me, fingers crossed for a good second pairing. WhisperingJack, HBK and PistolPete teamed up to be the three jalipinos to go into the hotpot of speed in Channel Rd, Rocket off the menu today. A light northwesterly blew us to Boundary Rd but dragged the cloud cover too. Resolves were tested on the southern commute and by Mitchell Rd retirements to the rear were becoming popular, down to 7 working the front till HBK's exit made it 6. Rocket's absence threw the possibilities open in Raftery Rd, a few gaps opening past Arcadia Downs and chasms by Conrod. As PistolPete, Kenworth and WhisperingJack opened up a bigger lead, WobblyTrev drew alongside me then inexplicably developed a rapid negative caster to the left, directing me into the dust (voluminous verbs veered the variable vexatious veteran vocationally viable) calamity avoided to finish upright. Could have done with the Minties (it's moments like these....) but recouperated for the social roll through town.
Not quite a Mallee bull, but feeling well tuned to tackle Tuesday arvos' hospital bunch (missed a few of late, had better put in an appearance or be struck of the register). Luke, Axel, GT Craig, WillierTony (a recent birthday but still a pup) Harpo, Clive, Rocket and Juzza loitered around the boom gate for 6pm to arrive, the self appointed/opinionated 'champion'' fronted for unknown reasons, was ignored. The customary additions to the bunch on the commute to the Emu included Sticks and Bomber, James, Stiffy, Dalton, not-so-GiantTony, Trent, Trudy and the Machine, numbers swelled with the speed helped from the 15 to 20 k's of west southwest wind. Bomb and Sticks hit the loud pedal south to the Toaster, shutting up many to stay in touch. Good drivers kept up the motion in Old Dookie with an ease in Boundary Rd helping many get their breath. A passing 4x4 near Channel Rd belched diesel smoke for us all to inhale, some now content to stay at the back for a free tow. The Machine, James and Bomber drove into the southwester on River Rd, I'd found myself on Rockets wheel and slowly working up toward the big and far more capable guns, wondering if this was the place for ancient engines low on power. Long turns delayed my promotion to the front till Raftery's horse stud (and I was but the tired old donkey), only capable of a few hundred metres with Rocket in the 40's. I'll remember GT Craig in my Will for a timely roll over at Arcadia Downs (before I bent a valve), the big guns now firing into Conrod with many like me shelving aspiration for perspiration and dedication in the closing 700 metres. The bell tolled for many digging deep at the front, maintaining a steady pace paid it's reward of my place in the front 6, albeit some distance from Bombers 1st spot with Rocket nipping at his heels 2nd.
Kitted in a lighter base layer for Wednesday (after Tuesday mornings sweatshop) resulted in another wardrobe malfunction, chilled by 11 degrees with a strong southerly to deal with. (Memo to self ; check outdoors before the ride!) Shane, Wozza, Cougar, Nick, Rocket, Trav, PistolPete Jase and RidleyTrev formed the pack at Kialla, PistolPete reporting Archer was now open (and sealed) for business. Just a few loose stones to contend with but the southerly wind wore down the motivation by arrival at Mitchell. Tail lights ahead were slowly being caught, a Cat (and his kitten) caught in River Rd just as the usual procession of bunches barrelled west. The east leg seems even longer with the sun still in bed, lights of smaller groups southbound in Boundary showing River Rd's real length. A short but sweet tailwind was relished to Channel Rd, then the heads down work homeward. A pitched stone from another wheel to my derriere whacked me a giddy up to match Rocket to the S bend, pacy speed to the kinder predicted a thrash at Prentice Rd which never materialised. PistolPete looks sedately smooth at speed, Wozza primed for the tough mudder in fine form too. Our bunch of 10 were soon back to base, split at Archer for the commute home, negotiating the test track of twists, roadworks and manhole covers of Archer, ranked a close second to Verney Rd's joke called a bike lane.
A real dose of winter on Thursday, 7.8 degrees to start the day, I got the clothing right at least. Just Rocket, Kenworth, Nick, Cougar, PistolPete, Wozza and WobblyTrev fronted, lamenting those lost to lethargy as the season cools, FeltMat, Shorty, Temple, BigMat, WhisperingJack and DiscoSteve all resting in peace as the die hards (desperado's?) fly the flag. Mr & Mrs Mystery rolled out a minute before our start, just the carrot for Rocket & Pete to chase. Caught by Orrvale Rd, Mr Mystery was clearly possessed by the pursuit, had quickly dumped Mrs (latched onto the back) to play with the boys. Order was restored by the kinder, down to the business of enduring the temperature, foggy spots and speed, even though my heart rate monitor was showing 43 bpm till the cypress trees. Mr Mystery was identified in the rotation, Mark (Mrs = Trish) somewhat against the grain of peleton protocols. Nick was nursing a niggling hamstring but soldiered steadily on, Wozza compliant sharing the front of house duty. HBK and Aimee were caught and passed at One Tree Dam, Mark & Trish resigned to the rear for their Mitchell Rd exit. There's at least 10% more velocity from Rocket & Pistol than most, at least they're playing ball with us mere mortals on the limit, just hang on when they pair up at the front.. Patches beyond the dog-leg were colder than Putin's politics but Pistol warmed us up by pouring on the power up Mt Nicolaci. A slow for traffic at the highway allowed Cougar and WobblyTrev to close a small gap, solidarity ruled out of Roubaix and up to Conrod, the Pistol & Rocket greyhounds then let off the leash. I'd dropped back to lend a tow to Cougar (and draw a straight line for Trev), pleased to cross the line with a 36+ average, a solid ride for just eight players.
It's the fifth anniversary of the library bunch (formed to escape the big hitters in the hospital bunch, that worked didn't it?!) so it's timely to attend. The car park had a fair collection of punters for tonights 6pm lap, Scott, Harpo, Juzza, Clive, Paul, Coggo, Hamish, WillierTony, Simmo, Axel (and newbie mate Pete), all enjoying a return to summer weather (30) with a hint of NNE wind. Paul parked the Avanti horizontally at the Balaclava roundabout, a late car call and the gutters' ridge undoing the balance, no skin off and (of more importance to Paul) no paint off the bike. Mitch was picked up at DECA, the Machine Steve at Numurkah Rd, Dalton, Trent, Trudy and more in Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd. I had a turn with Coggo then another with Mitch, watching the heart rate climb into the red, Clives' carbon brakes sounding like a baritone budgie on the turn at the Emu, newbie Pete now missing. Easier going south and west, the Columbian was collected in Old Dookie to even up the numbers. Pointing south, another go at the front for me from the highway to the bridges with Paul, Mitch next, picking the speed up to 40 to River Rd (4k's at the pointy end had earned my dinner) The slowly setting sun is perfectly pointed along River Rd these days to test everyones vision, in two weeks it will be darkness to endure. Speed was fairly brisk to Central Kialla and the westward leg to Raftery, seems I'd just recovered when another turn came up. A bit shorter this time, half a k with Paul then the same with Mitch, mid fourties enough to fray my edges. In Conrod the competent wound up the intensity, proportionally spitting out the hangers on, some had thrown in the towel with 400 left but i'd got on top of the 13 sprocket to round up a few, a rather distant fourth to the Columbian, Mitch and Paul taking the prime positions.
A very mild Friday kept the variety in the weeks' weather, the NNE a nuisance wheeling out Channel Rd, but Darth Vader's sudden invasion from the tabledrain was a bigger problem. Hard to aim the water bottle at a dark pooch growling at the heels in the dark. The wind was tougher bearing north into Boundary Rd, the Supercats, 51 and Goats were on a breezy bonus for freaky Friday. A restorative little roll around today to recharge limp legs.
Week 12 362km YTD 3,256km
"Money is a strange business. People who haven't got it aim at it strongly. People who have, are full of troubles" Ayrton Senna (1960-1994) Brazilian Formula 1 driver (would have been 54 today)
Friday, March 14, 2014
Week 11 : Fluctuations & philosophy
I always look forward to a Saturday lap, a chance to knock over a few calmer (karma?) k's and exercise some post ride social interaction instead of the weekday bolting to work syndrome, there's something about the weeekend's freedom anyway. The familiar south course down the main drag, a balance-challenged bloke necking a paper bagged bottle, a clubbed out quartet looking a bit second hand, a mid-life runner raising an early sweat, the baker cooking crusts, all part of the early morning entertainment as most hibernated under doonas against 13 degrees. Shorty, SuperMario, Nick, Cougar, Temple, Trav, Jase, RidleyTrev, Rocket, Dion, WhisperingJack and WobblyTrev had gathered at the shop for the 6 o'clock off, at least our constant cursed companion (the wind) had failed to arrive. Nearly all reported a busy week as we cadenced Channel Rd, climbing aboard two wheels seems to be the escape from work worries, daily dramas and life's curved balls, a chance to clear the cobwebs from the cranial crevass, maybe flush the hippocampus of drudgery with dopermine. The seasonal cusp brought out all varieties of kit today, from short legs and sleeves all the way to full covered longs, depending on the fortitude of the wearer I guess. All contributed to turns at the pointy end, Nath found at Channel Rd's end. Whispering Jack dialed up the pace which became infectious to Temple and Nick, highlighted the odd chilly patch along the way and made good the escape from the eau de piggery in Old Dookie Rd. A few bikes in ones twos and threes from the Toaster onward, all were just the trailers though to the feature Cat pack as we crossed Boundary Rd (but a long weekend seemed to have trimmed their numbers) The return home was cranked up with a few enthused drivers at the front, the sun even later out of bed, finally rising as we reached Ford Rd. Dampish tarmac threw a caution at the Canterbury Ave roundabout, Shorty understandably nervous with WobblyTrev close by. All remained upright to make base camp at the Lemontree, a quiet word in the right ear extinguished the fag being puffed by the defiant patron, sparking chat on smokers, fly-in fly-out jobs and Garmins' complexities.
A long weekend enjoyed off the bike, recovery possible for parts better left unsaid. Has the corner been turned on previous efforts and a slow decline begun? The old engine not up to the task anymore? Maybe it's just a respite till motivation grips again? Tuesday morning was a wake-up call to early wake ups, swinging the leg over and the effort needed to propell old faithful to a reasonable rate. A mild 18 degrees helped creaky muscles climatise, down to the shop to find Trav, Kenworth, PistolPete, Rocket, RidleyTrev, WobblyTrev, Cougar, Shane, Temple and HBK ready. At the third stroke, two Trev's jumped the queue and hijacked the lead, a calmer start for the seniors was the first item on the agenda. With the shuffle of the deck I'd inherited the wheel of death, immediately adjusting the exclusion zone to satisfy my longevity. The regular velocity soon returned on the follwing shifts at the front, youth promoting speed. Jase and SuperMario were missing in action after a 100k slog yesterday, little effect on Rocket (who did turn up) though. A light easterly would aid and abet for the Mitchell leg, just the southern stretch in Boundary to keep clear of our wandering minstrel for me. Shane has quickly tuned into when to call a roll, preventing a kaboom on the front. The usual performers kept discussion to a minimum for a fast flog down Mitchell, numbers working the front decreasing as defectors to the tail increased. A few sticks to avoid in the treed turns of Raftery Rd, WobblyTrev a rapid retirement as Conrod came into view. Rocket had no problem dispatching any comers at the finish line (wearied legs or not), most seemed happy just to finish and end the muscular/ respiratory/cardiac distress.
Archer Rd's roadworks continue (lugged tyres for PistolPete's commute?) so the Wednesday ride has evolved into a Tuesday / Thursday reverse lap. Trav, Shane, Temple, Cougar, Rocket, Wozza, PistolPete, Nick and visitor MattMatt (he's from WaggaWagga) set forth from Kialla Lakes to Raftery, finding WobblyTrev waiting before the bridge. Of course I copped the Mt Raftery ascent into a strengthening SSW (17-24 km/h) then to match PistolPete to Arcadia Downs as a burn bonus. Rocket added to the muscular mayhem down to Roubaix corner, almost a relief to have the wind at our side for Mitchell Rd. A brief pause at the highway while Cougar wrestled with the wiring on a flickering headlight but soon underway with WobblyTrev, Shane & MattMatt (rides a Fuji too, but straight, a rare sight) cementing positions at the rear. Early bunches found TT'ing in Central Kialla Rd, the regular packs racing on River Rd., Rocket & Pistol put in a paired 3k paced performance dragging us all along, Trav winning the hot seat for the final k of River to match the Rocket. A little easier northbound with some puddle dodging (mimicking WobblyTrev) causing a chuckle, but work was to be done for the homeward bound Channel Rd. I thought Wozz & I set a good tempo till PistolPete and Rocket added another 5km/h to humble us, glad others took the edge off on their turns as we had attempted earlier. A restrained push past Prentice Rd, no crack at the Bonanza but a decent dip at 30k.
The temperature sank on Thursday, struggled to stay at double figures. This atmostpheric anomoly may have had a gravitational effect on many doonas, just eight attending the Archer car park. A straight shooting team of Wozza, Jase, Cougar, FeltMat, Nick, Temple, Vince and PistolPete launched into Channel Rd, only a light SSW to hide from. Jase nursing a knackered knee, FeltMat wrestling with Garmin gremlins (haven't we all?) and Vince re-aquainting himself with the Merida. A fair effort was needed in Boundary Rd, after his long absence FeltMat felt flat, no zap, fitness lacked, so sat back (he'll fight back, down the track) Turns were a little shorter with reduced numbers, work at the front seemed to pop up rapidly. Traffic was a little close for comfort at the highway so called a halt (allowed the h.r. to chill in the 11 degrees after my turn with Pistol.) Vince, Nick, Wozza & Pistol had plenty of spare change into Conrod straight, Jase quickly gapped going easy on the knee, I soon had carriages Temple, Cougar and FeltMat attached for the 700 metres left. As the metres whitlled away we reeled in Jase, Nick and Woz, I only just managed a bronze with the flying Cougar fractionally fourth.
Shut the alarm up, the habitual donation of 10psi to the tubes that goes AWOL overnight, choose a kit that compliments the days' climate (failed) and put a few Weet-Bix in the tank for Friday morning. Plenty of bikes commuting north in the main drag to the freaky Friday factions, me just on a steady tour of Channel, Boundary and Old Dookie. The moon had run out of volts, just Aldebaran and Betelgeuse in the sky to guide the way, easy to lose your bearings on the twists and turns of Channel. The usual procession of peletons south as Cougar and I tapped north on Boundary Rd, felines in factions, at least the rousing greeting from P&W's breaks the silence. Being busier than a Beiruit bricklayer at work has halved last weeks k's, don't mind the respite to be honest.
Week 11 ; 218km YTD 2,894
"The secret to life is honesty and fair-dealing. If you can fake that, you've got it made!" Julius Henry "Groucho" Marx (1890-1977) US comedian.
A long weekend enjoyed off the bike, recovery possible for parts better left unsaid. Has the corner been turned on previous efforts and a slow decline begun? The old engine not up to the task anymore? Maybe it's just a respite till motivation grips again? Tuesday morning was a wake-up call to early wake ups, swinging the leg over and the effort needed to propell old faithful to a reasonable rate. A mild 18 degrees helped creaky muscles climatise, down to the shop to find Trav, Kenworth, PistolPete, Rocket, RidleyTrev, WobblyTrev, Cougar, Shane, Temple and HBK ready. At the third stroke, two Trev's jumped the queue and hijacked the lead, a calmer start for the seniors was the first item on the agenda. With the shuffle of the deck I'd inherited the wheel of death, immediately adjusting the exclusion zone to satisfy my longevity. The regular velocity soon returned on the follwing shifts at the front, youth promoting speed. Jase and SuperMario were missing in action after a 100k slog yesterday, little effect on Rocket (who did turn up) though. A light easterly would aid and abet for the Mitchell leg, just the southern stretch in Boundary to keep clear of our wandering minstrel for me. Shane has quickly tuned into when to call a roll, preventing a kaboom on the front. The usual performers kept discussion to a minimum for a fast flog down Mitchell, numbers working the front decreasing as defectors to the tail increased. A few sticks to avoid in the treed turns of Raftery Rd, WobblyTrev a rapid retirement as Conrod came into view. Rocket had no problem dispatching any comers at the finish line (wearied legs or not), most seemed happy just to finish and end the muscular/ respiratory/cardiac distress.
Archer Rd's roadworks continue (lugged tyres for PistolPete's commute?) so the Wednesday ride has evolved into a Tuesday / Thursday reverse lap. Trav, Shane, Temple, Cougar, Rocket, Wozza, PistolPete, Nick and visitor MattMatt (he's from WaggaWagga) set forth from Kialla Lakes to Raftery, finding WobblyTrev waiting before the bridge. Of course I copped the Mt Raftery ascent into a strengthening SSW (17-24 km/h) then to match PistolPete to Arcadia Downs as a burn bonus. Rocket added to the muscular mayhem down to Roubaix corner, almost a relief to have the wind at our side for Mitchell Rd. A brief pause at the highway while Cougar wrestled with the wiring on a flickering headlight but soon underway with WobblyTrev, Shane & MattMatt (rides a Fuji too, but straight, a rare sight) cementing positions at the rear. Early bunches found TT'ing in Central Kialla Rd, the regular packs racing on River Rd., Rocket & Pistol put in a paired 3k paced performance dragging us all along, Trav winning the hot seat for the final k of River to match the Rocket. A little easier northbound with some puddle dodging (mimicking WobblyTrev) causing a chuckle, but work was to be done for the homeward bound Channel Rd. I thought Wozz & I set a good tempo till PistolPete and Rocket added another 5km/h to humble us, glad others took the edge off on their turns as we had attempted earlier. A restrained push past Prentice Rd, no crack at the Bonanza but a decent dip at 30k.
The temperature sank on Thursday, struggled to stay at double figures. This atmostpheric anomoly may have had a gravitational effect on many doonas, just eight attending the Archer car park. A straight shooting team of Wozza, Jase, Cougar, FeltMat, Nick, Temple, Vince and PistolPete launched into Channel Rd, only a light SSW to hide from. Jase nursing a knackered knee, FeltMat wrestling with Garmin gremlins (haven't we all?) and Vince re-aquainting himself with the Merida. A fair effort was needed in Boundary Rd, after his long absence FeltMat felt flat, no zap, fitness lacked, so sat back (he'll fight back, down the track) Turns were a little shorter with reduced numbers, work at the front seemed to pop up rapidly. Traffic was a little close for comfort at the highway so called a halt (allowed the h.r. to chill in the 11 degrees after my turn with Pistol.) Vince, Nick, Wozza & Pistol had plenty of spare change into Conrod straight, Jase quickly gapped going easy on the knee, I soon had carriages Temple, Cougar and FeltMat attached for the 700 metres left. As the metres whitlled away we reeled in Jase, Nick and Woz, I only just managed a bronze with the flying Cougar fractionally fourth.
Shut the alarm up, the habitual donation of 10psi to the tubes that goes AWOL overnight, choose a kit that compliments the days' climate (failed) and put a few Weet-Bix in the tank for Friday morning. Plenty of bikes commuting north in the main drag to the freaky Friday factions, me just on a steady tour of Channel, Boundary and Old Dookie. The moon had run out of volts, just Aldebaran and Betelgeuse in the sky to guide the way, easy to lose your bearings on the twists and turns of Channel. The usual procession of peletons south as Cougar and I tapped north on Boundary Rd, felines in factions, at least the rousing greeting from P&W's breaks the silence. Being busier than a Beiruit bricklayer at work has halved last weeks k's, don't mind the respite to be honest.
Week 11 ; 218km YTD 2,894
"The secret to life is honesty and fair-dealing. If you can fake that, you've got it made!" Julius Henry "Groucho" Marx (1890-1977) US comedian.
Friday, March 7, 2014
Week 10 : Drongos in the dark on a deathwish.
Saturdays forecast rain hadn't arrived at 5.30 so ran on the gut feeling that a dry ride was feasable, despite the dark clouds waiting on the horizon. Found Wozza on the way south, Jase a half k advanced arrived first (yay! no first stint for me!) much discussion with Rocket, Shorty, Nick, Weapon and Tommygun on forecasts and radar as we committed to Channel Rd's darkness. Barely at Kensington Gardens when the first spits fell from the heavens, quickly filling the head with negatives. Optomism struggled till the drops diminished. Weapon (birthday girl) had a navigational nuance nearing the cypress trees, but order was restored within a minute. Rocket and Wozz were in ace tune on the front of the bunch, Tommygun nursing a crook calf did his bit within the confines of comfort. Short sections of tarmac were randomly damp, not enough to raise a spray though. Three cars on the north leg to the Emu constituted peak hour in this neck of the woods, 5 bikes appeared in Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd as advanced party to a petite pussycat peleton, precipitation possibly prevented prosperous population. With 22 k's done, light finally invaded the sky, clouds sitting high enough to heighten hopes of a dry return to town. A few more soggy sections suggested patchy rain had passed earlier, we soon were on a dry Wanganui Rd and planning post ride "broko" (half way between breakfast and smoko). SuperMario was seen rolling quietly on a Tour de Boulevard with the recovering Andrea (nursing new knee) Temple had the Lemontree table warmed for the customary caffine and comment, town houses, tumbleweeds and telephone technology (and it's anti-social ramifications) talked over. Many missing this morning, tapering for the Tour de Pub in the arvo.
Sunday skipped again, becoming acustomed to a day off (or is it the first signs of softening?) A lot of mental wrestling to throw off the doona Monday morning, 12 degrees had cooled enthusiasm, a moonless dark sky wasn't enlightening either. The customary Monday circuit with Cougar out the twisting tarmac of Channel, bearing north in Boundary every bunch was strangely indian file, a couple of soloists at least vocal to call a good morning, Cats mute but. The aero Cougar had head down and pace up for an early return to town.
A mild Tuesday morning was inspiring, only a light easterly to contend with. A little more motivated with comfort found on the seat, so rolled down south to see the crew. Shorty had pole position in the carpark but many had lined up behind him (fearing the first shift?). As has become my duty, I paired up with him, hopeful he wasn't about to crucify me. Nick, Trav, Shane, Rocket, Temple, RidleyTrev, Kenworth, WhisperingJack (yes, he's back!) PistolPete, SuperMario, Wozza and WobblyTrev departed on cue, HBK arriving last of course. The first shift with Shorty, then 2nd with Wozza left just crumbs in my biscuit barrel by Orrvale Rd, Rocket next made my recovery difficult, but had regained some composure by the cypress trees. Mr & Mrs Mystery were found again steaming along at Channels Rd's end, passing them in Boundary Mr chopped in on our overtake (must loan him the gospel according to peleton protocols) leaving Mrs to latch onto the back bumperbar (WobblyTrev). Not sure how long they survived but had vanished by Mitchell. WhisperingJack ony had a short appearance on stage, retirement was just moments away with HBK taking the limelight (half a bike ahead). Mitchell Rd blurred past, lengths of turns started to vary but speed stayed consistent (glad darkness hid the reality of speedo and heart rate, light may have ignited cerebral negatives). Shorty, me, Wozza then Rocket were at the pointy end from Arcadia Downs to Conrods' dipper, a glance back showed all had suddenly single filed, content to let Rocket hang out to dry. My sympathies went out to the now nodding compact cannon with 500 to go (an oppressed Ukrainian persued by the KGB?) so I found an internal boost button to do an early lead out, satisfied in gapping the pack. "I'm giving her all she's got 'Capt'n!" at the 200 mark, so flicked an elbow, Rocket with Wozz in tow hit hyperdrive to take a 1, 2, I was more than pleased to take a bronze for the morning and a 3rd overall for the Strava segment with a 38 average.
Made a return to the hospital bunch Tuesday evening, a month since last turning wheels with them. Forecast and the radar looked bleak, but caution was thrown to the NNW wind (25+ km/h) and the dark blue clouds to the NW and SE. WillierTony, Juzza, Luke, Harpo, TrekScott and Axel were similarly optomistic (or silly), setting sail sedately out Verney Rd and collecting Trav and Liam in Ford Rd. Bomber & Sticks joined in on Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd, new dad Dalton, Steve the Machine, Trent, Trudy and not-so-GiantTony by the Emu. I didn't spare the sweat trying to match Sticks from the church to the toaster, pleased to relinquish the front to capable ones for the push along Old Dookie Rd. Dark grey curtains of rain hung from low clouds to the east of Boundary Rd, close enough to smell rain on the grass but far enough away to stay dry. Steve, Bomber and Sticks drove a high 30's train into the northwesterly on River Rd, no rotation spelt an easy roll for most of the bunch, Juzza dropping off the back with a slow puncture, Axel donating himself as pit crew. No time wasted to Central Kialla and along Mitchell Rd (minus Sticks and Bomber) but found myself on Steve's wheel exiting Roubaix, no place for the feint hearted. Faced the music (briefly) from the horse stud to Arcadia Downs, quick to hand over to faster lads for Conrod. Steve was egging on young Liam (furiously fast at 14, what will the future bring?) for a podium position in the last 300 metres, but I was blurry enough hanging on to the Dalton diesel for 6th. Recovered to feel not so tatty rolling back through town, improving health coping with today's quick 90 k.
Plied south on Wednesday to the Kialla lakes start, rapidly from the darkened side street a dogs' breakfast of runners (all over the road like) speared into McIntosh's dim lanes. Does one plot a course left, right or through the middle of the unlit Browns' cows? Vented the venacular verbs suggesting visibility but was invited to a few rounds of Queensbury rules as a reply. Short on internal and external vision I guess. Found Cougar properly lit and in a bike lane (how strangely sensible) but an oncoming road bike had a headlight the size (and lumens) of a match head and zero tail light. Life not worth living one wonders? We collected Temple at the roundabout and set about a reverse Tues/Thurs lap, Cougar scoring the polka dots up Mt Raftery near Steptoes corner (Conrod finish line). 16 degrees and 95% humidity turned it to the tropics with a low mist to ride through approaching Roubaix, no Toucans in the trees but early birds (on bikes) were cresting Mt Nicolaci at 6am. Temple was climatising to a new Garmin 510, the River Rd option chosen to put a squiggle in his map and to witness a bevvy of oncoming bunches, SuperCats as long as a train today. The 6 k to Boundary Rd was covered at a decent clip, Cougar in fine form, motivating the males. Two more small bunches bore south in Boundary, our northern assult battling against the windshear of oncoming trucks. Some ease to be sheilded in Channel Rd for the return, just to veer for the car halted in the middle of the left lane at the cypress trees (a taxi; perfectly permissable, posesses peculiar parking permit) Almost a traffic jam with 3 cars appraoching the Doyles Rd intersection from all directions but we were safely through, finishing at the bus stop in good time with no sign of pursuers.
Back to a cool start on Thursday, only 12 degrees at the start line. HBK and Aimee headed out early (is HBK a member of the RSPCAimee?) as candidates convened for a Couldabeens conference (Shane, Chris A, Temple, Nick, Cougar, WhisperingJack, Wozza, Jase, Kenworth, RidleyTrev, PistolPete and Rocket). Kenworth & I took on the leg one lead, sounds of a strained brushcutter from an unlit & engined bike oncoming, lights from the car overtaking us just picking up his hi-vis jacket (his only salvation from being a bonnet badge). Yet another drongo in the dark on a deathwish! Fast forward to the end of Channel Rd, an unusually conservative turn by WhisperingJack with Nick, but it was the harsh reality of the headwind in Boundary that had turns rolling over faster than a Qantas carbon tax quote. I'd given up on my Garmin, data frozen at 26km/h. Shane took a short shift in Mitchell but his money was already spent, a minor kaboom to retreat to the rear to recover. Sitting third wheel to Chris A and Jase, I was hopeful for a tow all the way home, but I didn't have the overdraft to pay for the draft. Talk stopped at Roubaix as the revs rose, my last turn done at the horse stud (if I was to finish at all). Chris A awoke from his solubrious slumber and hit the go pedal into Conrod, enticing Rocket to come and play. All others could only hang on in desperation, anticipation turned to hyperventilation losing touch with the leaders. Backmarkers were soon passing the once hopefulls, a collective finish though, albeit a few rungs below the win of ChrisA and Rockets' 2nd.
A most mild evening for a go with the Library bunch on Thursday, Juzza, Rocket, GT Craig, Axel, Harpo, Luke, James, WillierTony and one familiar but un-named tall dude on a Giant (with a seat post as long as your arm). Sexy shoes, long legs and a hint of g string were on show from femmes fatale at the start had attentions diverted as we rolled away, it was down to business on the front with Rocket though all the way to Wanganui Rd (Mitch picked up loitering beyond the golf club). A fairly stiff south southwesterly propelled the speed as we headed to the Emu, finding Dalton, Trent, Trudy and not-so-Giant Tony along the way. A good steady turn with GT Craig turned up tempo with Rocket, timely he took the lead at the Emu down to the church, but I had my chin on the headstem to get the desired draft. A drop to the low 30's in Old Dookie Rd (courtesy of WillierTony and Juzza) helped the heart rate settle, calm stayed for Boundary too (Bomber, Sticks and the Machine missing) ,not-so-Giant Tony departed to Channel Rd. Another good go at the front with GT Craig in River Rd turned to a thrash when Rocket and Trent did their duty, into the low 40's had most gasping (second wheel to Rocket a big ask for this old engine). Some recouperation was possible in Mitchell Rd, action stations again in Raftery as Rocket and Mitch got itchy feet into the mid 40's (second wheel again to the pocket projectile) Rounding the horse stud corner a stiletto stabbed sharply in my right ribs, my head said persevere but the body protested, went rapidly OTA with a bitch of a stitch. GT Craig was most compassionate in dropping back to tow me, just half a k worth helped to rekindle the speed, swapping turns to finish 100 metres in arrears.
Legs buckled a bit rising for the Friday 5am alarm, back into 350k/week has a lethargic leg legacy. I wasn't ready for the crucifixion of HBK's version of "a steady ride", a lap with Cougar a far more suitable tonic. The suns' tardiness cloaks all bunch identity at this hour (and will stay that way till October I guess) only the Cats characterised by size and P&W's by greeting. Plenty of bikes out for FreakyFriday as always. Single digit temperature today (a sign of things to come?), all those frosty k's ahead, dressing in multiple layers, skin turning blue, all to look forward to. Cougar pounded the pedals in Old Dookie Rd till the SLR's sang ("Wheels on Fire"?), back home early for T.G.I.F. and T.G.I.L.W.
Week 10 ; 366km (YTD 2,676)
"We can easily forgive a child who is afraid of the dark ; the real tragedy of life is when men are afraid of the light" Plato (427-347 BC) Greek philosopher and mathamatician
Sunday skipped again, becoming acustomed to a day off (or is it the first signs of softening?) A lot of mental wrestling to throw off the doona Monday morning, 12 degrees had cooled enthusiasm, a moonless dark sky wasn't enlightening either. The customary Monday circuit with Cougar out the twisting tarmac of Channel, bearing north in Boundary every bunch was strangely indian file, a couple of soloists at least vocal to call a good morning, Cats mute but. The aero Cougar had head down and pace up for an early return to town.
A mild Tuesday morning was inspiring, only a light easterly to contend with. A little more motivated with comfort found on the seat, so rolled down south to see the crew. Shorty had pole position in the carpark but many had lined up behind him (fearing the first shift?). As has become my duty, I paired up with him, hopeful he wasn't about to crucify me. Nick, Trav, Shane, Rocket, Temple, RidleyTrev, Kenworth, WhisperingJack (yes, he's back!) PistolPete, SuperMario, Wozza and WobblyTrev departed on cue, HBK arriving last of course. The first shift with Shorty, then 2nd with Wozza left just crumbs in my biscuit barrel by Orrvale Rd, Rocket next made my recovery difficult, but had regained some composure by the cypress trees. Mr & Mrs Mystery were found again steaming along at Channels Rd's end, passing them in Boundary Mr chopped in on our overtake (must loan him the gospel according to peleton protocols) leaving Mrs to latch onto the back bumperbar (WobblyTrev). Not sure how long they survived but had vanished by Mitchell. WhisperingJack ony had a short appearance on stage, retirement was just moments away with HBK taking the limelight (half a bike ahead). Mitchell Rd blurred past, lengths of turns started to vary but speed stayed consistent (glad darkness hid the reality of speedo and heart rate, light may have ignited cerebral negatives). Shorty, me, Wozza then Rocket were at the pointy end from Arcadia Downs to Conrods' dipper, a glance back showed all had suddenly single filed, content to let Rocket hang out to dry. My sympathies went out to the now nodding compact cannon with 500 to go (an oppressed Ukrainian persued by the KGB?) so I found an internal boost button to do an early lead out, satisfied in gapping the pack. "I'm giving her all she's got 'Capt'n!" at the 200 mark, so flicked an elbow, Rocket with Wozz in tow hit hyperdrive to take a 1, 2, I was more than pleased to take a bronze for the morning and a 3rd overall for the Strava segment with a 38 average.
Made a return to the hospital bunch Tuesday evening, a month since last turning wheels with them. Forecast and the radar looked bleak, but caution was thrown to the NNW wind (25+ km/h) and the dark blue clouds to the NW and SE. WillierTony, Juzza, Luke, Harpo, TrekScott and Axel were similarly optomistic (or silly), setting sail sedately out Verney Rd and collecting Trav and Liam in Ford Rd. Bomber & Sticks joined in on Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd, new dad Dalton, Steve the Machine, Trent, Trudy and not-so-GiantTony by the Emu. I didn't spare the sweat trying to match Sticks from the church to the toaster, pleased to relinquish the front to capable ones for the push along Old Dookie Rd. Dark grey curtains of rain hung from low clouds to the east of Boundary Rd, close enough to smell rain on the grass but far enough away to stay dry. Steve, Bomber and Sticks drove a high 30's train into the northwesterly on River Rd, no rotation spelt an easy roll for most of the bunch, Juzza dropping off the back with a slow puncture, Axel donating himself as pit crew. No time wasted to Central Kialla and along Mitchell Rd (minus Sticks and Bomber) but found myself on Steve's wheel exiting Roubaix, no place for the feint hearted. Faced the music (briefly) from the horse stud to Arcadia Downs, quick to hand over to faster lads for Conrod. Steve was egging on young Liam (furiously fast at 14, what will the future bring?) for a podium position in the last 300 metres, but I was blurry enough hanging on to the Dalton diesel for 6th. Recovered to feel not so tatty rolling back through town, improving health coping with today's quick 90 k.
Plied south on Wednesday to the Kialla lakes start, rapidly from the darkened side street a dogs' breakfast of runners (all over the road like) speared into McIntosh's dim lanes. Does one plot a course left, right or through the middle of the unlit Browns' cows? Vented the venacular verbs suggesting visibility but was invited to a few rounds of Queensbury rules as a reply. Short on internal and external vision I guess. Found Cougar properly lit and in a bike lane (how strangely sensible) but an oncoming road bike had a headlight the size (and lumens) of a match head and zero tail light. Life not worth living one wonders? We collected Temple at the roundabout and set about a reverse Tues/Thurs lap, Cougar scoring the polka dots up Mt Raftery near Steptoes corner (Conrod finish line). 16 degrees and 95% humidity turned it to the tropics with a low mist to ride through approaching Roubaix, no Toucans in the trees but early birds (on bikes) were cresting Mt Nicolaci at 6am. Temple was climatising to a new Garmin 510, the River Rd option chosen to put a squiggle in his map and to witness a bevvy of oncoming bunches, SuperCats as long as a train today. The 6 k to Boundary Rd was covered at a decent clip, Cougar in fine form, motivating the males. Two more small bunches bore south in Boundary, our northern assult battling against the windshear of oncoming trucks. Some ease to be sheilded in Channel Rd for the return, just to veer for the car halted in the middle of the left lane at the cypress trees (a taxi; perfectly permissable, posesses peculiar parking permit) Almost a traffic jam with 3 cars appraoching the Doyles Rd intersection from all directions but we were safely through, finishing at the bus stop in good time with no sign of pursuers.
Back to a cool start on Thursday, only 12 degrees at the start line. HBK and Aimee headed out early (is HBK a member of the RSPCAimee?) as candidates convened for a Couldabeens conference (Shane, Chris A, Temple, Nick, Cougar, WhisperingJack, Wozza, Jase, Kenworth, RidleyTrev, PistolPete and Rocket). Kenworth & I took on the leg one lead, sounds of a strained brushcutter from an unlit & engined bike oncoming, lights from the car overtaking us just picking up his hi-vis jacket (his only salvation from being a bonnet badge). Yet another drongo in the dark on a deathwish! Fast forward to the end of Channel Rd, an unusually conservative turn by WhisperingJack with Nick, but it was the harsh reality of the headwind in Boundary that had turns rolling over faster than a Qantas carbon tax quote. I'd given up on my Garmin, data frozen at 26km/h. Shane took a short shift in Mitchell but his money was already spent, a minor kaboom to retreat to the rear to recover. Sitting third wheel to Chris A and Jase, I was hopeful for a tow all the way home, but I didn't have the overdraft to pay for the draft. Talk stopped at Roubaix as the revs rose, my last turn done at the horse stud (if I was to finish at all). Chris A awoke from his solubrious slumber and hit the go pedal into Conrod, enticing Rocket to come and play. All others could only hang on in desperation, anticipation turned to hyperventilation losing touch with the leaders. Backmarkers were soon passing the once hopefulls, a collective finish though, albeit a few rungs below the win of ChrisA and Rockets' 2nd.
A most mild evening for a go with the Library bunch on Thursday, Juzza, Rocket, GT Craig, Axel, Harpo, Luke, James, WillierTony and one familiar but un-named tall dude on a Giant (with a seat post as long as your arm). Sexy shoes, long legs and a hint of g string were on show from femmes fatale at the start had attentions diverted as we rolled away, it was down to business on the front with Rocket though all the way to Wanganui Rd (Mitch picked up loitering beyond the golf club). A fairly stiff south southwesterly propelled the speed as we headed to the Emu, finding Dalton, Trent, Trudy and not-so-Giant Tony along the way. A good steady turn with GT Craig turned up tempo with Rocket, timely he took the lead at the Emu down to the church, but I had my chin on the headstem to get the desired draft. A drop to the low 30's in Old Dookie Rd (courtesy of WillierTony and Juzza) helped the heart rate settle, calm stayed for Boundary too (Bomber, Sticks and the Machine missing) ,not-so-Giant Tony departed to Channel Rd. Another good go at the front with GT Craig in River Rd turned to a thrash when Rocket and Trent did their duty, into the low 40's had most gasping (second wheel to Rocket a big ask for this old engine). Some recouperation was possible in Mitchell Rd, action stations again in Raftery as Rocket and Mitch got itchy feet into the mid 40's (second wheel again to the pocket projectile) Rounding the horse stud corner a stiletto stabbed sharply in my right ribs, my head said persevere but the body protested, went rapidly OTA with a bitch of a stitch. GT Craig was most compassionate in dropping back to tow me, just half a k worth helped to rekindle the speed, swapping turns to finish 100 metres in arrears.
Legs buckled a bit rising for the Friday 5am alarm, back into 350k/week has a lethargic leg legacy. I wasn't ready for the crucifixion of HBK's version of "a steady ride", a lap with Cougar a far more suitable tonic. The suns' tardiness cloaks all bunch identity at this hour (and will stay that way till October I guess) only the Cats characterised by size and P&W's by greeting. Plenty of bikes out for FreakyFriday as always. Single digit temperature today (a sign of things to come?), all those frosty k's ahead, dressing in multiple layers, skin turning blue, all to look forward to. Cougar pounded the pedals in Old Dookie Rd till the SLR's sang ("Wheels on Fire"?), back home early for T.G.I.F. and T.G.I.L.W.
Week 10 ; 366km (YTD 2,676)
"We can easily forgive a child who is afraid of the dark ; the real tragedy of life is when men are afraid of the light" Plato (427-347 BC) Greek philosopher and mathamatician
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