Trails and Tribulations...

Dog days of Winter

2011-12-17T14:02:00.001-05:00

Thorns and Roses - -Abbreviated Holiday Version

Homeroom Attendance
GOG
Mother Theresa
Love Train
2 Saddles
Dean
Steve
Sonic Boom
Jim Cobb – The Rabbit – another regular member of the leadership group for the Thorns N Roses.
Elise Cobb – Popsicle, The Beast
+Approximately 3 of our finest cycling friends and guests.

Approximately 12 cyclists Occupied the Brueggers Bagels parking lot ready to take flight. One rider did not take on the typical genome structure of a Thorns and Roses participant. This guest was in fact a dog. I am not talking about the common expression used for some of our younger members of the Thorns and Roses, this was a bona-fide pooch by the name of Zinfindel ..I think.

Gog and Mother Theresa were taking the beloved doggy out for a spin in the dog trailer, which was fitted to a Classic (read heavy) bike. The crew stood around staring at this impressive rig and were eager to see the biscuit biter in action.

Group 2 included the usual suspects wanting of 4 millimoles of lactic acid or more. Jim Cobb commanded core leadership of this group with Steve, Dean and Sonic Boom making playful escapes. The route was intended to be Green Level West, Luther, 751, Hume Olive, Richardson, Olive Chapel, Kelly, Old US 1, Beaver Creek to home. However given the Holiday activities of some of the members that day, plus the eager nature of some of the riders to aerobicise...this group re-colonized into 2 different objective classes at the 751 bypass. Group 2A took off in escape formation, led by the strong, young and vibrant Green Pants Steve, his trusty pal Dean, and Sonic Boom. Group 2B rechartered a new course through the Lapland of Jordan Lake proper to allow for early afternoon holiday merriment.

All riders had a great day of cycling fun, with the longest route at 46 miles, the shortest at about 20+/- with Group 2B logging something in between.

Happy Holidays to All!

Merry Christmas from Zin, one of the Thorns N Roses newest riders. She traveled 23 miles miles at a comfortable 12 -13 mph average. She hopes to join more rides with the Roses in the New Year.

Bike Cornucopia

2011-11-26T21:38:00.001-05:00

write up provided by Lee Duncan aka Sonic Boom. In a previous life Lee, as a soldier during WW I discovered Rin Tin Tin - the first Dog of silent movies. ( Google it you will find this to be true)

From wikpedia
The first of the line (c. September 10, 1918 – August 10, 1932) was one of a litter of shell-shocked pups found by American serviceman Lee Duncan in a bombed-out dog kennel in Lorraine, France, less than two months before the end of World War I. When Duncan found him on September 15, he was still blind and nursing.^[1]
The two pups from the litter that Duncan kept were named for woollen dolls called Rintintin and Nénette that French children gave to the American soldiers as good luck charms. Duncan returned to the USA with them at war's end. Rin Tin Tin settled at his home in Los Angeles, California, though Nénette had earlier died.^[2] Rin Tin Tin was a dark sable color and had very dark eyes.
Nicknamed Rinty by his owner, the dog learned tricks and could leap great heights. He was filmed making a 11-foot leap at a dog show by Duncan's acquaintance Charles Jones, who had just developed a slow-motion camera. Seeing his dog being filmed, Duncan became convinced Rin Tin Tin could become the next Strongheart. He later wrote, "I was so excited over the motion-picture idea that I found myself thinking of it night and day."^[3]

The Thorns N Roses want to give Thanks to Lee Duncan for his continued service in finding and promoting screen plays to this blog and to have also discovered one of Americas best big screen artists know to all as Rin Tin Tin.

Now for Lee's newest screen play
Bike Cornucopia

Thorns
Nick
Travis
David Bridenbaugh – Mr. Bridenbaugh
Steve Cope - Captn Carbon
Lee Duncan - Sonic Boom
Jim Cobb – The Rabbit – another regular member of the leadership group for the Thorns N Roses.
Elise Cobb – Popsicle, The Beast

It was a nice Saturday morning for giving thanks; a special holiday honoring the early cycling settlers and a time to enjoy a special harvest feast of visceral lipids.

There were a few less than a cycling dozen ready to hit the proverbial cycling trail. But first we attacked the challenge of the day, which was, where in the heck are we going?

The Wampanoag cycling tribe huddled together to come to some decision and it was decided that the crew would head out of Preston, then sail the "Velo Mayflower" through Cary West, 751, Hume Olive, Old US 1, Beaver Creek and then Holland Chapel to home.

Upon making this decision and uniformly committed to be free of couch potato persecution, the Brueggers Plymough colony headed off. The separatists were in good spirits and commenced merriment. Upon entering the New World of Cary West, it became increasing clear that they had not properly planned/prepared for the early onset of winter. This was further demonstrated by the high degree of cooperation to keep warm against the assailing winds. Not even the silver buckled Captn Cope sprinted for county lines during this phase.

At mile marker 17, the cycling settlers moved due East, seeking the unNorthern Passage through Hume Olive. This is where the wheels came off the ship. Mr Bridenbaugh fueled from a morning feeding of Frosted Flakes (I wish I were kidding) hit the escape hatch and headed for the Old US 1 finish line. Others tried to follow and where met by resistance, specifically exponential levels of wind resistance at the committed rate of speed. Another explorer known as Jim "Martin Frobisher" Cobb led another equally important conquest across the Hume Olive divide. The cycling friends who joined him were in thanks at the US 1 Stop Sign for surviving the long arduous journey.

After spending some time among the indigenous people of Apex it was time for the gang to head back for Black Saturday and Sunday religious affairs. Leading the Turkey Trot home was Jim "Martin Frobisher" Cobb, accompanied by the resilient and determined Popsicle Beast dba Elise Cobb.

On this final journey home to Plymouth Plantation, the Father / Son team of Nick and Travis served up a huge serving of Stuffing and were gracious to let the group come back for Seconds.

Nearly home and everyone sickened from the elements, Captn Cope broke the Mayflower Compact and sprinted for the county line in victory. All the colonists rejoiced in the playful match of the day.

Overall, the ride served as a Cornucopia of fun and sport, with Team Thorn finishing out the day's journey at 52 miles with a 18.5 MPH pace.

Ride Together, Right Now

2011-11-05T14:18:00.001-05:00

Thorns
Nick
Travis
Sharon
Shane
David Bridenbaugh – Mr. Bridenbaugh
Steve Cope - Captn Carbon
Todd - B3
Lee Duncan - Sonic Boom

It was a bright beautiful morning and we had about 14 riders ready to go.

Everything was going smooth until...here came old flattop, he came grooving up slowly, he had joo-joo eyeball, he's one unholy roller, he once had hair down to his knees,--he's got to be a joker, he just do what he please--- it was Cope.

Oh great, now we had some riff raff in the house. Despite the distraction, the group moved forward with a plan to execute the typical flight path-- across the Carpenter Firestation, down Del Web AARP Blvd, 751, Lystra Petrol and Holland Chapel to home. We also agreed to a Moratorium on hills.

As we pulled out of the parking lot, Bridenbaugh said hey: "You may say that I'm a dreamer, But I'm not the only one.. I hope the Stems will join us ..And the world will be as one"... What?? said Todd!

And with these prophetic words, the group decided to ride together, and were kind and polite. The steady pace continued through the first stage of the cycling event. Nothing too crazy and the behavior exhibited experience and maturity--but more so a symptom of eating excessive amounts of Halloween Candy.

As the group road out towards 751, the hills started to form, and one young rider, Shane was looking a little cold...He had toe-jam football...He had monkey finger ..He uttered "I know you, you know me"
"One thing I can tell you is you got to be free"..and with that he pushed about 500 watts through his cycling machine and the blood splattered. "Ouch, that hurt" everyone yelled..

Geez ..and who was ready to blast off next...none other than the Father / Son team of Nick and Travis. As they started to wake from their cycling slumber.. Nick had Walrus Gumboot and Travis had tights down below his knees, and as they road past on their bikes you could feel their disease...Sonic Boom shouted, .."lets stay together, right now"...or until the light.

After the light, Sharon and Todd were willing to keep Sonic Boom company as they finished the King of The Mountain stage and rolled into Lystra Petrol. That was hard work, and it was now time to feast on Hostess Trans fats.

With everyone feeling a little tired from battling the cold temperatures, one member of the Thorns yelled out "how many miles to go?"

Cope...suffering from early onset hypothermia..yelled back, "One and one, and one is three" "Got to be good-looking 'cause it's so hard to see". Todd once again responded with What??

OK, let's all get back then. And with that the group played nice on the return trip back..with the exception of a decisive County Line Sprint where Cope and Bridenbaugh dominated.

Overall a great great day of riding among friends at a 16 to 17 mph ave for 40 miles.

Yowie Cycling Encounter

2011-10-30T16:45:00.001-05:00

Those in attendance on Saturday.
NO ONE

Those in attendance on Sunday

Kevin Smit – GOG
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa
Vick
Craig X
Bart
Lee Duncan - Sonic Boom
Jae Brainard – “GO GO GO Girl”

On Sunday morning we had 7.5 riders ready to go according to census data.

As we assembled into the parking lot, a few cyclists noticed a large shadowy figure off to the back and snapped a few photos as it scampered into the woods. Was it a Sasquatch (see picture)?

As it turned out, it was GOG entering the tree lined area of Brueggers Bagels to take a natural break. Phew!!

The small group rejoiced because the only thing more rare than seeing Big Foot is a GOG and Mother Theresa sighting. We were delighted and quickly tried to capture the two and bring them into captivity.

After a short team huddle, GOG called out the play -- "we are going to take a complicated escape out of Cary with lots of turns and weirdness." Luckily our new friend Bart understood the directions and demonstrated his competence by calling out streets along the intended path. This dude knew what he was doing.

The crew hit the road, following the directions as instructed until our faithful Roses Leader "GO GO Go Girl" ejected assorted cycling items out of her jacket. The group slowed down and let her collect the belongings which turned out to be mace and I think a taser, brass knuckles and a bear trap. Mother Theresa and GOG yelled "OK were good, release the Kraken"...and with that the 4 man Thorn team was born.

Team Thorn included Craig X, Vick, Bart and Sonic Boom... and we immediately started to chase the invisible rabbit. Up and around we went until we found our way to Green Level West and out to Lewter Shop. We had some awesome pulls and most everyone was rested from the rainy Saturday the day before. Craig X and Vick were all set to do the Halloween Habitat Century, but as mentioned were shut down by the rain. It was noticeable that they were taking their frustration out on Bart and Sonic Boom as they pushed the pedals in Anger. At one point, Sonic Boom fought back trying to serve the 2 Angry men some cycling justice on Holland Chapel, but the do-gooders were too much and could not be playfully dropped. Now that the group was totally gassed out at about 15 miles into the ride, we cruised to Lystra gas station on auto pilot.

At Lystra gardens and resorts we hopped off our bikes for some delicious treats to consider our next move. Originally Craig X and others had to be back in the parking lot by 10:30AM, but some how through cell phone negotiations they were free to about 1PM or longer. With the extended curfew, it was decided that we would do Lystra, Big Woods and Wilsonville to home.

Upon our decision the 4 man group headed towards Lystra riding at a cautionary pace and in good formation. Everyone made it up Lystra in good shape until Bart had to head back for baby duty. We said good bye to our spatially gifted General, and the trio continued forward entering Jack Bennet and up Big Woods. Vick took the lead up Big Woods and pulled the group the entire way -- wow. After that we summoned Craig X to help us because we didn't have enough power for interstellar travel. Craig X took a commanding position and pulled the scrappy Thorns up and towards the Wilsonville gas station where we took one final rest break. Sensing weakness in critical thinking skills from our belabored efforts, Sonic Boom tried to trade snacks with Craig X, but Craig was too smart and knew a bad trade when he saw one.

Now limping, Team Thorn willed themselves across Fearrington pass and back one last time over Holland Chapel and to home.

The short recovery ride turned into a 52 mile 18 to 19 average speed event with everyone happy to see our cycling friends and ready for our next adventure.

The ROSES enjoyed thier 33.4 mile ride out to the lake and back. They traveled at an average speed of 14.6 mph. The sun and calm air made for a very enjoyable ride.

Cold Play - Front Row Seats

2011-10-22T18:36:00.001-05:00

Saturday Oct 22 nd
Yet Another great story of the adventures of the Thorns as told by Lee Duncan (Sonic Boom).

Yup, another Cold one. The Mercury logged about 42 degrees during the first few strokes of the pedal. This was a day for full frontal -- that is, keeping minimal frontal area exposed to the wind. Certainly a day that could have inspired the makers of Wind Stopper fabric.

Despite this, about 20+/- aerobic soldiers occupied the parking lot at Thorns and Roses cycling emporium. To keep cognitive frustration at bay, the decision was to maintain the familiar with the typical Cary escape: Lystra, Big Woods and Wilsonville to home. This route has something for everyone, not to mention about 2,000+ feet of total climbing.

The riders organized to their intended heart rate zone for the day and rolled out of the parking lot. Another great parade ensued out of Cary with the common discussion topic being the most substantial appendage affected by the cool weather conditions. This continued on for the first 7 miles. Right out of the Hand Book, as the light turned green at the gas station of Carpenter Firestation Hollow, the riders took flight.

More rapid than eagles the Green Flash's coursers they came, and he whistled, and shouted, and ridiculed them by name; "Now, Jim Cobb ! now, Rob Robertson ! now, Todd McBride and Love Train!

On, Don! on Dean! on, Bridenbaugh don't complain! To the top of the hill! out towards the Mall!

---Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!"---

So the group pushed it hard, until their morning pastries and abdominal stiches arrested their progress. From there on out, the soldiers rode together well until the contagion known as cellular micro trauma infected about 90% of the riders at the Lystra gas station. Their next of kin then continued on to finish the ride as a memorial.

A great ride was had by all, with the surviving Thorns completing 57 miles at a 19+/- ave speed for the day.

Thorns and Roses Tribute Ride

2011-10-15T19:01:00.002-05:00

Saturday Oct 15th
It was a beautiful morning with the sun peaking up over the horizon and the weather extraordinarily cooperative--people simply had to show up. With the trap bated and set, the cyclists started to arrive at the historically unconfirmed birthplace of cycling -- the Thorns and Roses clubhouse. One by one they arrived, small ones and tall ones, young and those named Paul ones--about 20 +/- riders in all. A great bonus was the arrival of a few Thorns and Roses "framers": Steve Cope and David Bridenbaugh + the Raven Rock Ramble Founder and Organizer.

The Green Flash worked to develop a community organizer project and stationed The Jets on one side of the parking lot and The Sharks on the other -- translation A and B group. The concept design of the ride would be a traditional exit through Cary, out through the previously known Del Web development, 751, Stage Coach, numerous Farrington named roads, Lystra, Jack Bennett, Big Woods, Wilsonville Gas and home. After proper disclosure and a review of the game rules, the pistol fired.

The cycling flash mob hit the streets, talking and getting CV updates on recent activities. The merriment continued through the largely ceremonial first lap of the Champs-Elysees where no one challenges and everyone raises their water bottles in celebration of the day. This mood and comradery continued until the curtain fell with the Green Light entrance of Carpenter Firestation; and with that the gate flew open and the jockeys spurred their horses into action.

The rest was a blur, however it was noted that all riders were rotating well, riding safely, and at the same time (Thorn Account) trying to make their friends suffer in the worst way.

A great time was had by all, with the final group finishing at 57 miles moving at a 20 mph +/- average speed.

FROZEN

2011-10-02T19:17:00.001-05:00

Brrrrr. It was a cold start to the ride AGAIN, what was up with this weather? Perhaps Fall got a little ahead of itself.

Considering the beautiful weather on Saturday, I was curious who would show up for the Sunday recovery mixer. It turned out to be Mr reliable, Vic and a new recruit Shane. Both were filled with optimism and ready to ride. It was decided that an out and back would be the course of the day and with that the 3 riders pulled out of the parking lot.

As we started on the road out of Preston, it was learned that Vic had completed a 100 mile Century ride the day before and was ready to add to his war chest with the Sunday ride. I told Vic he was my hero and that he encapsulated what I wanted to be when I grow up.

And Shane, our new recruit ---- revealed that he was 15 or 16 years of age. When he made this confession, I thought about what I was doing at age 15/16 and I believe it involved watching Beavis and Butthead. I was not focused and committed to anything to the degree that Shane was, and I could see that this was a young man with a bright future in whatever he decided to pursue.

The 3 riders made their way through Carpenter Firestation huddled together to fight off the bursts of chilly wind. It seemed more like early November than early October, and we all felt like dedicated cyclists for riding on such a frigid morning.

The Cyclists turned left at the CVS, bypassing Cary park to try and keep the hills at bay. However, with a quick burst of speed the riders shot up the small undulation of Green Level Church, over toward Morrisville Parkway and out to the Berry Patch. Each person took meaty rotating turns at the front, keeping the speed solid and reflexes sharp. Shane showed great cycling courage with several large pulls and Vic demonstrated that he had bottomless endurance. At the midpoint, the dynamic few-o put the ride on cruise control and chatted about cycling, weather, current events with a few select moments of banter seasoned in.

A great ride was had by all at 32 miles with an 18.5 mph pace.

Thorns in the Mist

2011-09-24T09:28:00.000-05:00

Write up provided by Lee Duncan - Sonic Boom.

This movie would definitely get 3 out of 5 stars. It was a morning of indecision.. very foggy, dark with moments of light rain. Starting at 6 AM, the decision to ride the bicycle was overturned every 10 minutes: yes/no/yes/no/no/no/yes. Just under the buzzer I decide to get out on my bike and brave the elements. Heck 30% to 40% chance of rain was not going to scare me away. As I pulled into the Thorns and Roses clubhouse it was just as expected... The 2 gentleman before me would have had Chemistry.com profiles that detailed:

-Enjoy engaging in activities that are slightly uncomfortable

-Love challenging convention of good judgement

-Oh and biking among friends

These 2 Desperados included Deputy Steve and Deputy Dean. Both the men were defiant against the current weather conditions - read that "in denial." But as long as I had a friend to share the miles with, I was ready to roll out. All 3 men loaded up and headed on their way to adventure. As the miles and conditions wore on the men, great stories of courage were shared.

Deputy Steve, a very young man by all accounts is an Engineer - possibly something to do with fluid. Anyway, Deputy Steve had a bright idea the day of Hurricane Irene to race the storm up the coast so he could spend some time doing solo ascents up the elevated terrain (by foot). This young man woke up at 2AM, drove 12 hours, possibly in a NASA Diaper until he approached a mountain of reasonable size in the great state of New York. Upon arrival, the Park Ranger advised him that no logical person should make such an effort given that Hurricane Irene was hot on his trail. But Deputy Steve is unlike mere logical people... He scaled the mountain doing 1,000 to 2,000 feet of trail climbing, and once at the top was rewarded with a rain storm complemented with dangerous lightening. Down he went bouldering the rocks as the deluge continued..finally making his way back to the car. A stunt self proclaimed as among the craziest ever in his life.

Deputy Dean, the second crazy man told of a story where he had wrestled with a tree branch and unfortunately was out maneuvered. The result was several leg injuries etc the day before. Even more outrageous was that Dean was a professionally trained Architect. He had been recovering from days in the rack, drafting and creating designs and structures for 12 hours in succession. Realistically an endurance event far more challenging than the Hawaiian Iron Man. Everyone was impressed.

Having adequately exchanged Bios to maintain warmth, the 3 riders cruised on-- over upchuck, New Hope Church, Pisgah Church, 751, Marthas, Farrington, Old Farrington, Stage Coach, 751 and home. Although the riding was unpleasant, the opportunity to learn about the exciting lives of our friends made for a terrific morning on the bike.

The cold and wet blue man group traveled 40 miles at a 18 mph pace.

MS 150 weekend - Thorns N Roses scattered to the wind

2011-09-10T12:53:00.001-05:00

Several folks were supporting the MS 150 in New Bern NC. A great weekend of fun and fantastic weather with riders accomplishing lots of miles (some more than others) at fast (some faster than others) speeds on flat roads with limited head winds. All for a great fund raising cause.

Those staying close to home had a great week end of rides as well.

A special shout out goes to Cort Bennett on Saturdays Thorns N Roses ride.
One of those in attendance wants to regognize Cort for his solid support of the Spirit of A No Drop Ride.
The rider took the time to send an email to recognize his choice to support the spirit of the Thorns N Roses. Here is the content of an email sent to GOG asking to recognize Cort.

"I'd like to add a "thank you" to Cort Bennett who rode with me on the Saturday Thorns N Roses ride.
I was - by far - the slowest rider in the group and I was prepared to go it alone once the groups splintered off. But Cort rode with me the whole way and I really appreciated that!" .

Well done CORT. You likely had a personal expection to get in X number of miles at XX speed. You however demonstrated the TRUE Spirit of the Thorns N Roses by Choosing to abandon your needs and took the stance to make sure No One Rides Alone. We all want to Thank You and others who demonstate a willingness to periodically support the Spirit of a No Drop ride.

In addition to Cort and the rider he rode with on Saturday Sonic Boom has provided the following write up.

Thorns and Roses Lite (A Thorn's Account of the Events)

The Saturday ride was low calorie for sure. About 8 riders graced the Brueggers parking lot in proper uniform. It was decided that we would ride 52 miles at a solid pace since there were only a few Thorns in attendance.

These individuals included Demian (nickname in process), Vick (nickname in process), Shaun (Green Flash), and Lee (Sonic BM). The riders took their mark after gaining executive order and rolled out of the parking lot. Everything was going swimmingly well, until Shaun spotted a dog on the side of the road and requested the others to continue on (he was powerless to continue). Apparently Shaun loves dogs so much that he needs to stop on occasion to pet and talk to them. After he caught up, the riders entered the roundabout in Preston Station and exited out in route to Cary West.

The riders took a left at CVS and cranked up the hill and turned right as they progressed up berry patch corridor. Demian with his extensive training background as a Cycling coach, pulled ahead and increased the speed of the Peloton markedly. Demian was giving helpful advice on pedal cadence etc as the group cruised along. After intermission, Shaun took the helm once again. Along the Thorns cruised on... out to the Lystra gas station and then up the big bad Lystra hill. Our new enlistment Vick did a great job of pulling himself over the land mass, and was showing terrific improvements in fitness from his last ride with us.

Once over the other side, the small group visited Jack Bennet and turned right on Big Woods. Lee decided to spend it all -- and tried to attack Big Woods, which was a very risky and tiring maneuver .. ultimately leaving him exposed when Vick attacked.

Everyone came together at the end of Big Woods and caught their breath. After a moment of reflection and star gazing, the group crossed the road and traveled up to the Wilsonville gas station. The small pack held together well and cruised into the SAG station for some extended R&R. After 13 seconds of rest, all entered the Fearrington express lane and held a nice consist pace back to home... with a few well executed attacks along the way.

The group traveled about 52 miles at a 20 mph average speed. Although the attendance was light, the intensity and fun was not.. and everyone went home for a nap.

The End

Labor day ride

2011-09-05T21:40:00.000-05:00

A handful of thorns showed up at the standard start time only to learn that several folks had determined on Saturdays ride to leave at 8 am vs the 7:30 ish announced time.

Rather than wait for those still to arrive and assemble the band of Thorns launched themselves into their days ride.

The others continued to wail for the later start time.
Some of those looking to ride later included;
Ron Clanton – Just Ron, back in town for a short stay and ride.
Tracy Clanton – Rose Peddler also back in town for the a short visit and ride.
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie – looking to get more miles in the saddle in preparation for the MS150 ride.
Chip – Sorry Chip can not remember your last name.
Todd McBride – B3
Perry Hurt - POE
MoePercy
Rod Davis
Ginny Davis
Jae Brainard – GO GO GO Girl
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa – back from helping move her sister in-law to Florida
Kevin Smit – GOG – back from helping move his sister to Florida.

The group was looking to just get in a few easy miles to start the day and to beat any rain that was predicted to arrive in the early afternoon time period.

The group discussed their options for route and settled on the RTP to the gas station on 751 route via the bike trail. With the route in mind the group rolled out of the brueggers parking lot and on into the Preston Neighborhood. Jae altered the route thru Preston by directing all riders onto Morrisville parkway and then onto Lewis Stevens by passing the Big Chicken landmark.

The riders glided along on Morrisville Parkway with the only incident a chain being thrown off of Mother Theresa’s crank set. As they rode each rider was interacting with those in the group. Some were discussing upcoming cycleing events such as the MS 150 ride, while others were catching up on activities from the summer. Just Ron and GOG were discussing the joys and challenges of the RV life. Both had previous camped (RV’d) together at various locations in the state. Chip and B3 were discussing various topics of their interest. Chip took a few moments to throw a few barbs at GOG and his new Stealthy looking bike. GOG had just recently had his SCOTT frame replaced with a new one. The new frame has a very dull finish with extremely subtle detailing. This is in stark contrast to the previous frame that looked more like a neon yellow and shiny black billboard. The biggest issue with GOG’s Stealthy bike is the pilot, who is at its controls, is NOT STELTHY and still creates a large vortex as he cuts thru the air. The group truly enjoyed the banter provide by Chip. The group was still together as they waited at the light of Lewis Stevens and Morrisville Carpenter. This was the last time the group stayed together as those looking to charge ahead did not look back until the turn into the new neighborhood off of Church road and Miami area.

The pack circled in the round a-bout to ensure all riders made that critical turn. It did not take long for all to be accounted for and the pack to again make way towards Kit Creek and the Bike Trail that would serve as the portal from one area of county roads to another.

The portal offers a smooth passage way filled with many travelers. It is an ingenious device, simple in design, yet compatible with so many modes of travel. The group of cyclists was able to traverse this portal at speeds that were easily managed based on their interaction with others in the portal. The group was able to glide along in sections at 18 miles per hour. Other periods of travel were instantly converted into a reduced speed and a slight alteration in direction as they encountered walkers, or other cyclists, or joggers, or dogs on leashes. An additional technical marvel is the ability of this portal to support travelers moving in opposite directions as well as varied velocities. If more of these portals could be made available the risk of unexpected collisions might be more readily avoided. Cyclists do not enjoy being placed into environments known as high traffic areas to then be compared to atomic particles in a super collider experiment.

Upon reaching the end of the portal the cyclists were directed to make a right turn onto New Hope Church road and to continue in that direction all the way to its end at 751.

Both Ginny and Rod Davis pulled the pack along into the head wind at speeds reacing 22 to 23 mph.

Rod was recognized for his solid performance. He then shared with the group that he had just had CSH fit him to his bike. They had raised the handle bars, and change the crank arm lengths. Rod went on to explain how much of a difference it has made for him and he no long is suffering from knee pains.

The gas station at 751 serves as a great gathering spot for Bio breaks and to replenish water. The group was offered options of heading back to the finish, or adding extra miles. The vote was unanimous to head back to the finish and to pick a route that was as flat as possible.

GOG directed all out of the parking lot with Mother Theresa Leading the way. She rocketed ahead of the group and remained in her solo spot well into the rolling hills as New Hope reaches its opposite end at the top of Up-Chuck. About half way along this route GOG was riding next to Top Rookie with Ginny Davis tucked in close behind. Both GOG and Top Rookie were animated in their banter resulting in a lot of jostling on the bikes. At one point the gap between then squeezed Ginny out and she yelled at the two to settle down in her effort to not become collateral damage from their antics.

Once at the end of New Hope Church GOG slid left onto Yates Store and towards Carpenter Fire Station. The pack responded instantly knowing they would be traveling down Up-Chuck and then up its more gradual side. They all passed GOG only to have him later zoom past on the far left between an oncoming car and the pack. His momentum was provided by the interaction of his Mass and the forces of Gravity working to pull him closer to the center of the earth. Once safely down the back side of Up-Chuck the pack reassembled as they swung right onto Carpenter Fire Station. Mother Theresa was lagging behind at that point but B3 made sure she did not ride alone.

The group finished the ride rolling into Brueggers after 32 miles at an average of 16.3 mph. A great time was had by all on the ride. This continued as most of the pack then spent the next hour socializing on the lawn furniture provided by Brueggers and Carabou coffee.

Marathon Event

2011-09-03T21:44:00.002-05:00

This write up provided by Lee Duncan - Sonic Boom (a Thorns percpective).

Saturday morning brought clouds and cooler weather upon the Thorns and Roses. As the cycling event came into session - the Roses and Thorns leaders considered the plans for the day. The Green Flash stepped up and exhorted upon the troops that we would try a "modular" cycling event (what the).. Because the earth moon and sun were in alignment -- and the conditions fair, we would try to attempt a Century ride. Upon this announcement, a harmonious gasp was echoed through crowd. Each looking to each other (and holding their young ones tightly) confirming in disbelief the words uttered from our dear leader.

Yup, a Century was planned where the Thorns and Roses would shoot for a non classical out-and-back.. making use of upchuck and the uphill side of Green Level West. Each modular unit would swing back to the Thorns and Roses club house to let tired riders off at the school bus stop. People could choose their own adventure and proceed to their vehicles upon the successive cycling eclipse. Very innovative.

The party people hoped to their bikes and pealed out to start the event. About 30 riders joined the mass - which looked like a mini CSH group as they aligned themselves onto the Highhouse freeway.

As expected, the fun hit maximal velocity during the first loop. Many new people, young and not-as-young where partying like it was 1999 + 12. All riders were dumping watts, and spilling processed oxygen. In fact, it is fair to say that the riders were about half cooked 15 miles into the proposed century (a proud moment in non economy). After we got this out of our system, the riders commenced higher levels of communication and social hazing which was a lot of fun.

Ultimately the group half life-d each successive mile post 30; until only 3 riders remained.

A great ride, no major mechanicals, no issues and a great change-up to our normal riding protocol--bravo.

Fast and Fun Ride

2011-08-20T20:20:00.000-05:00

Thorn Account - Saturday, August 20th
write up provided by Lee Duncan - Sonic Boom

Fast and Fun Ride

Main Thorn Attendance -
Don
Dean
Lee
Mr Love Train
Mr Cobb
Shaun
Steve
Vick

Great ride on Saturday with 25+/- riders in general attendance. There was much discussion on the route, but Tangen won the top prize. The riders left the club house utilizing the Cary Parkway off-ramp. Right out of the gate the group was moving along vigorously, excited about getting the morning ride underway. The main Peloton would coalesce at each traffic light -- with a number of new folks trying out the Thorns and Roses experience for the first or semi first time.

As the TnR members entered into the badlands of Apex ,the group started to assemble into normal form. As usual, Shaun pulled at the front with bottomless power and energy. On many occasion, and especially during the early escape in the back woods.. the Cobbmesiter pushed the pedal to the metal. New upstart Steve (dude in green) was bestowed the feisty new rider award, making a number of escapes and accelerations that challenged the group and added a heaping serving fun. Not to be outdone, Don-- a fairly consistent rider with the Thorns.. spent all he had with huge efforts, recovered , and then did it again. A great rider and one with a lot of heart.

The famous Love Train dominated on a number of flats and destroyed on the descents; many did all they could to keep him in sight when he pulled the trigger. A wonderful new add to the Thorns, Mr Vick can hang with the best of them and has a wonderful positive attitude that keeps the Thorns well medicated on verbal Prozac. Dean rode with the Thorns, and not only rode strong but exhibited excessively friendly tendencies throughout. Lee rode his new bike and was thrilled to be out in the wild.

A great ride was had by all -- with no mishaps, no flats; just good clean cycling fun. Did I mention fast! 53 miles at 20.3ish ave speed over hilly terrain.

Saturday rain out - Sunday ride report

2011-08-07T22:19:00.001-05:00

This write up is brought to you by Lee Duncan - Sonic Boom

Saturday was a rain day, so 15 to 20 riders joined forces in the Brueggers parking lot Sunday to enjoy some cycling fun. At first it seemed like a sleepy group recalling their leisurely schedule enjoyed the day before -- when there was no point getting out of bed. No Biking No reason to greet the day.

As everyone gathered, one man stepped forward to give the commencement address.

A typical out and back was the order of the day, with a few showing aspirations or loyalist sympathies for CSH. With orders in hand, the brightly colored mass road through the common trapping route out of Cary Canyon and onto the open road. There were essentially 3 ride leaders for the day: a Roses leader, a Double AA+ group, and that of the infamous and rowdy Thorns. The early hours of the ride were peaceful and somewhat cool, but everyone knew we had limited time to get back to the bike shelter before the summer furry returned.

As a participant of the Thorns, it was an invigorating experience speeding down Green Level West with the wind flowing gently between my helmet vents. It was clear as everyone organized that the riders had grown familiar with the riding style of those around them-- and positioned themselves accordingly. The riders were fluidly conforming in response to the terrain and obstacles with almost telepathic precision.

Up-up-up went the cyclists - slogging themselves towards the Tobacco Trail Sandhills and onto the main hideaway of White Church Promenade. At the stop sign everyone caught their breath from the vigorous pace and ensured all those that wanted to be part of the group were shepherded back into the fold. As the riders turned left onto Pre-berry Patch Parkway, no one sprinted for the county line; recalling the myriad of mechanical issues experienced from hitting the pot holes and road debris in previous Olympic Trial events. By this time the sun was starting to rise higher in the sky and was now a growing threat - and with this..there was more copious water bottle usage among the wily bunch.

At the end of Martha's Chapel, the Core Thorns Brigade headed left while a small adventurous few headed off to Lystra mountain in search of the great yellow Buddha -- and the rest is history. The riders traveled approximately 30 +/- miles at a 18 - 20 MPH pace.

Mercury rising

2011-07-31T10:21:00.002-05:00

The cyclists lined up on Saturday morning promptly at 7:30AM as everyone wanted to get a head start and outrun the heat of the sun. There were between 20 and 25 riders braving the elements. The typical heads of state organized the group according to speed, distance and enthusiasm. The conversation was lively and newcomers were greeted and briefed on the typical procedure for the day's ride. It was decided that the flock of friends would head out to Tangen and prospect in the New Frontier. The ride leaders reminded everyone that the Tangen route was to be closed or detoured soon, so we needed to take advantage of it.

Not to lose any time, the riders clicked into their stirrups and headed on out.
This write up is brought to you by Lee Duncan - Sonic Boom.

The trail of riders commenced into the the heart of Cary and over the undulations that served as a wake-up call to the respiratory system. The group worked together through the trigger happy traffic lights and assorted traffic furniture along the way. At varied intervals the cyclists would coalesce and banter about the plan of the day and the recent group rides folks were involved with.

In typical fashion, about 10 miles out, the pace picked up with several members pulling off the front at incredible speeds. Surely many from the Thorns and Roses have been putting in some good miles as late summer approaches. The group stayed together quite well, even when the Peloton stretched out -- as if in pursuit of an escape group in the Tour De France.

About 25 miles into the ride, and with the mercury rising; the Thorns and the Stems splintered off with one group electing to go 50+ miles and the other 40 miles. As luck would have it, irregardless of route selected, both groups linked back up at the Wilsonville gas station and rode back to Thorns and Roses Headquarters as one happy family.

A great day was had by all with minimal bonking.

Thorns N Roses scatter in 3 directions

2011-07-10T18:44:00.001-05:00

July 9 – Saturday

Thorns N Roses scatter in 3 directions.

Based on positive feedback regarding last Saturdays route GOG elected to leverage it again for this day’s route. He did want to offer additional miles to those looking for a ride greater than 42 miles. This was to be easily accomplished by sending folks on additional loops of 10 and 20 miles. These loops all started from the same decision point and allowed an additional last minute change of mind when the extra 10 mile loop was to head back to the end, and the second loop was headed out for 8 - 10 more miles. This worked well providing options of 42, 52, and 60 ish miles for those in attendance.

Maps had been provided a couple days earlier via email. Maps were printed and handed out at the start.

Mother Theresa scurried all about checking folks in to make sure all could be recognized as attending the days ride. Waivers were signed by those new to the group. Several groups huddled amongst themselves sharing stories about their experience riding the Fire Cracker ride on the 4th of July.

GOG walked among the groups explaining the options for the days ride and identifying those in the group willing to take on ride leader responsibilities.

In addition GOG was working to identify individuals who would be willing to have their cell phones participate in the Thorns N Roses emergency Phone number calling tree. Todd McBride (B3) has taken the time to set up a Thorns N Roses Google phone number. This number (once fully operational) will be provided to all Thorns N Roses to call in the unlikely event they find themselves on one of the rides and in need of assistance. The phone number will be active and monitored by up to 6 group leaders during the rides. The objective is to have this in case a rider cannot resolve an issue by themselves and has no other means of getting back to the start. It can also be used if a person gets gapped, and then lost and needs guidance on how to get back, or how to regroup with the pack. The TNR emergency number should be treated as such. Stay tuned for more as Todd continues to work on the set up of this for the group. Thank You Todd for taking the initiative and time to set this up for the group.

Those in attendance for the days ride included:

Doug Augustine – Rumble Strip
Sheila Augustine – Total Recall
Cort Bennett
June Bennett
Jae Brainard – with a new nickname – “GO GO GO Girl” – on the rides when she is ready to Go she lets everyone know “GO GO GO” she cries in an effort to spur all others into getting going back on the road.
Kaleo Bullard – The Volcano
Angie Chiatello – Cold Blooded – loving the warm July Temps.
Scott Clark – Super Charger
Ginny Davis
Rod Davis
Lee Duncan – Sonic Boom – riding his mountain bike
Beth Gonzalez
Liz Hardy – Begs for More
Jeff Hoffert
Patti Lewis – Patti Melt
Marianne Mahn - #1 in the Bush
Todd McBride – Best Bikin Buddy (B3) – he was sporting a brand new Carbon Fiber Trek.
Mo Percy
Lisa Petty
Sharon Prochazka
Robert Renke
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie
Ken Schuster
Kevin Smit – GOG (Glistening Older Gentleman)
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa (for putting up with GOG all these years)
Sarah Tacker – Foot Loose

New to the group:
Avril Young
Jessica Kenny – another Triassholette

Arriving Late:
Steve Cope – Capn Carbon, Chiwawa, angry Chipmunk, the gnat
Steve thought the rides were still starting at 8 am. He must be too busy to read the emails and the blog, or to check his facebook page for the TNR event notifications.

The groups left the parking lot by carefully merging onto the busy Cary Parkway. Those considering the 60 miles left in the lead group, followed by those expecting to complete 52 led by Mother Theresa, followed by the 42 mile group co-led by ‘GO GO GO Girl” and GOG.

The pace on Cary Parkway was much more in control with the groups all remaining within eye sight of one another. Clearly having Sonic Boom on a Mountain Bike, and The Green Flash missing from the days ride allowed for a more orderly group ride and exit out of Cary.

As GOG was riding near the front of the ROSES he noticed a small car pulling up next to him. “I thought you guys leave at 8 am” the voice from the cockpit shouted. It was Capn Carbon dressing in full biking apparel with a bike stuffed in the back seat area of the vehicle. “Where are you headed” he shouted.
GOG thought for a second “clearly he did not read the emails, or look at the map”. “Turn at Laura Duncan and find a place to park, then you can chase the Thorns down” GOG offered.
With that the car sped off to chase down the front to the group.

All riders made the first critical turn on the route. Already the groups were establishing their pace.
GOG was riding a pace that included individuals choosing each of the distance options. Sonic Boom, The Volcano, Avril, and Jessica all indicated they were planning to complete the 60 miles but at a relaxed pace. GOG, Beth, GO GO GO Girl, #1 in the Bush, Total Recall, Patti Melt, Foot Loose all planned to complete the 42 mile loop at a 16 mph average (with lots of stops to regroup and rest).

Those electing to complete 52 miles included Mother Theresa, Cold Blooded, and Sharon. It was later learned that Capn Carbon and Jeff also did the 52 mile route. Others may have done that distance as well just not sure who. Those completing the 62 mile loop at a fast clip included:

Super Charger, Top Rookie, B3, Robert, Rumble Strip, and many others that joined them, or formed their own 60 mile pack.

The days ride offered several spots were the riders could enjoy shade as they glided through the country side. Mother Theresa commented on the fact that Big Woods was actually enjoyable due to the shade provided along that hilly section of road. GOG worked to make friends with the two new riders. He challenged Jessica to several bouts of BANTER and she responded beautifully by giving it right back to him. The group GOG was riding with caught up with the group Mother Theresa was guiding along. It was there that Cold Blooded made some comment on GOGs biking abilities only to have him spray her from his water bottle. The banter was running rampet as GOG then turned his attention to Sonic Boom who was now riding among the ROSES. “Totally different biking experience back here with the ROSES” GOG taunted. “I am getting Culture Shock from the experience” Sonic Boom responded. Both he and The Volcano had been riding along behind the Roses chatting nonstop acting like two Sorority Girls prepping for a double date. “Tee Hee Hee”, “Giggle Giggle Giggle” was the only recognizable sounds coming from those two for several hours. At one point Kaelo “The Volcano” turned the topic onto trivia.
“Did you know that Blacksmiths have their own language?” he asked. “No” came a curious reply from Sonic Boom. “Yea it is a lot like Morris code”, “it is actually done with a hammer hitting the Anvil”, “No one can hear each other talk so they pound out the messages” Kaleo continued. “The master Smith would hold the hot iron and rotate it while all the apprentice black smiths would pound the hot metal to the beat of the master Blacksmiths rhythm he would provided as his hammer taps on the anvil” Kaleo shared. The bonding that was going on between those two riders was not to be interrupted.

The groups eventually all made the planned rest stop and mileage decision point at Wilsonville. GOG and his group rested long enough to fill water bottles, take on Gator Aid, and take a bladder break. Mother Theresa was waffling on her commitment to complete the 52 mile route. Several of those looking to do the miles were not about to push her into something she was not ready to do. GOG on the other hand reminded Mother Theresa that in less than two weeks she needs to be ready to ride 60 – 70 miles each day for 7 days as she participates in RAGBRAI. Mother Theresa succumbed to the pressure and agreed to do the extra miles. Those hoping to also ride the 52 miles were pleased with her decision.

The groups all said their goodbyes with the 52 and 62 mile riders heading out towards Big Woods and the remaining group looking to do 42 miles headed down Farrington to Martha’s Chapel.
As the 42 mile riders were in the last mile of the ride #1 in the Bush was overheating and sought the shelter of a shade tree. GOG told the other to go on and that he would share the shade with #1.
While the two rested in the shade several of the 62 and 52 milers rolled past on their last mile of the days ride. All looked in good spirits and made sure GOG and #1 were OK.

After the ride several folks gathered in Brueggers to eat, hydrate, and continue the socializing that this group truly enjoys. Later they were joined by Mother Theresa, Cold Blooded, and Sharon. Mother Theresa was spent. She Thanked Cold Blooded and Sharon for helping her limp back into the finish.

The rest of the day Mother Theresa Napped.
Great routes, great folks to ride with.

Sunday July10th

Book Ends help keep the pack together.

The days route is becoming routine for Sunday’s. It is the CSH route in reverse and allows those looking for extra miles the opportunity to join CSH as they are headed out of town as TNR are headed back in. The start time and distance and pace also allows those who want to ride and attend Church the opportunity to do so. This Sunday the pack was back at the end of the ride by 9:30 am.
Those in attendance included:

Scott Clark – Super Charger – Riding a time trial bike.
Michelle Duff – back with the group after a year – welcome back
Jessica Holland – Twin Peaks
Patti Lewis – Patti Melt – riding for the second day in a row.
Marianne Mahn - #1 in the Bush
Todd McBride – Best Bikin Buddy (B3) – sporting yet another new Trek. Yes two new bikes in two days. He decided to trade the one he rode Saturday in for a different model.
Carrie Mitran
Liz Patrin
Shawn Richardson – Killer Bee on his black and gold Fixie
Paul Schmidt
Suzy Schmidt
Kevin Smit – GOG – on his Fixie
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa
Robert Speer

New to the group:
Virginia Jo Lovvora – aka Jo – welcome to the group Jo.

Little time was spent readying the bikes as each rider was already straddling their bike as GOG gave a brief description of the days ride and asked who was planning to join CSH near the end our TNRs ride. Only Killer Bee raised his hand high.

The pack was off and headed towards the Preston Neighborhood with GOG and Killer Bee leading on their Fixed Gear bikes. GOG could see in his mirror that all riders made the transition onto High House with ease and were all in Tow. The pack swept into Preston remaining together. The pace was not slow, but the corners were not attacked allowing all to navigate together thru the turns and twist of the Preston Nieghborhood. The pack all made the short light across Davis drive and on into the round about.

It was at the turn onto High House when Killer Bee and Super Charger launched themselves into their ride. All others gathered at the light and waited for GOG and those he was riding with to join the pack.

From that point on B3 took the lead spot and GOG took the rear. Two book ends working to keep the stack of riders all in a row. It was a pretty sited to look up the road and see a well maintained pace line. B3 did a fantastic job of monitoring everyone in the line to make sure he did not set a pace that would splinter the pack. This continued all the way to the climb up to White Oak. Those arriving at the top of the hill slowed slightly allowing others to finish the climb and then fall back in line. All stopped and rested briefly just before the left turn onto Leuter Shop and the run to the Strawberry patch. Once at the Strawberry patch the group rolled on to 751 and continued to make way to Martha’s Chapel.

The group separated slightly on the run down to the lake with individuals each riding at their own pace and in some cases forming smaller packs.

The turn onto Farmington (Kevin’s Crawl) was dominated by Mother Theresa who attacked that incline much like she did on last Sunday’s ride. GOG was happy to remain the trailing book end. After the turn onto Holland Chapel (Waffle Run) Mother Theresa and those in pursuit of her did not slow. GOG found himself pausing at the turn long enough to form a splinter pack that worked together to slowly chase down the individuals being dropped by Mother Theresa and the group riding with her.

One by One the trailing pace line grew as it slowly swallowed up those individuals gapped from the lead pack. All regrouped once again and remained as a pack most of the distance to Green Level. Mother Theresa had “Burnt All her Matches” by her strong performance on Kevin’s Crawl and Waffle Run, and was falling further off the pace. B3 had dropped back to attend to her and to ensure she did not ride alone. As the riders approached Green Hope High School Road GOG asked #1 in the Bush to hold the pack up at Sears Farm before heading onto the Green Way. She did a great job of getting all to that location and finding a nice shady spot to rest until Mother Theresa and B3 could arrive. Once all back together the pack carefully made their way on to the greenway. All did a great job or riding in control and made every effort to share the multi use path. The end of the days ride had the riders navigating the bike path of Sears Farm followed by the dance onto and then across High House into the parking lot and finish at Brueggers.

30 miles at a 16+ mph average with all riders finishing as a group. The book ends did a fine job of monitoring the pack.

Seeking enlightenment from Buddha found sitting under the tree.

2011-07-03T18:18:00.002-05:00

Saturday July 2.

GOG and Mother Theresa had planned ahead by plotting a route that would provided something for all in attendance. The route would;
challenge the Roses to go a few extra miles,
allow the Thorns and any stems that wanted to follow, several opportunities to add miles
allow those who were planning to ride on the 4th of July to get in a solid 42 miles and not burn themselves out.
The work they did in mapping the course was saved and placed on the web for all to review prior to the days start. Two sided copies were printed and readied to be handed out at the start to those who wanted one.
The earlier ride start time was announced a week in advance to help beat the summer heat and humidity.

Those arriving to participate included:
Cort Bennett
June Bennett
Jae Brainard – there to lead the Roses as she constantly steps into that leadership role.
David Bridenbaugh – Mr. Bridenbaugh – another one who consistently plays a leadership role for TNR.
Kaleo Ballard – Volcano
Scott Clark – rides with the group periodically. A thorn who has been seen assisting others by placing a hand on their back and pushing them up hills at speeds only a strong rider can produce. Due to this behavior Scott will now be known as TURBO CHARGER.
Jim Cobb – The Rabbit – another regular member of the leadership group for the Thorns N Roses.
Ginny Davis
Rod Davis
Tim Divinney – The Love Train, The Love Boat – another cyclist who can be counted on to step in and play a leadership role if needed.
Lee Duncan – Sonic Boom – known as one of the authors of the Blog Entries for TrailsandTribulations.
Roger Ehrlick – Blow Out
Beth Gonzalez
Jeff Hoffert
Jessica Holland – Twin Peaks
Deb Hollis – Two Saddles
Marianne Mahn - #1 in the Bush
Todd McBride – Best Biking Buddy (B3) – NO ONE understands the spirit of the ride better than this individual. He has consistently been there to ensure no one rides alone. A solid leader of the Thorns N Roses group. Make sure you thank him for his focus and dedication to the group.
Carrie Mitran
Ann Munn
Mo Percy
Stephen Percy
Joe Pittman – immortal Man – another strong rider who has stepped in to help others get thru the ride if they had mechanical or physical issues on the rides.
Sharon Prochazka
Dean Rains
Shawn Richardson – Dessert Flower – on his white Fixie. Few will argue that Shawn is the strongest rider of the Thorns. He is consistent in attendance only taking time off to get married. Shawn does a great job of balancing the needs of the Thorns that surround him while also supporting the spirit of a No Drop Ride. If you should choose to try and ride in his presence be prepared to be pushed harder, faster, and longer than you would have ever imagined. The speeds produced by he and his group have actually turned back time proving Time slows as you reach the speed of light. Make sure there is at least one other person or group behind you before you let go of the tow rope, those gapped will need to form their own pack and chart their course back home.
Kiki Rodue – Twinkle Toes – a brand new fire fighter. Way to Go KIKI.
Kevin Smit – GOG (Glistening Older Gentleman)
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa
Robert Speer
Alisha Woodroff

New to the group;
Brian Kemp
Vic Brown
A surprise visit by a long lost rider – read to learn who was found out on the route.

Mother Theresa was found working the crowd to ensure all that were in attendance was being recorded.

GOG worked the crowd to make sure everyone knew the days route. As he discussed the route and walked folks thru the turn by turn instructions he realized that an important turn was left off the cue sheet. This forced him to make sure everyone who got a cue sheet know of the missing turn and would be able to correct that as they approached that key left hand turn from New Hill Holliman onto Toddy Goodwin. GOG and Jae Brainard briefly discussed the feasibility of the Roses agreeing to ride the 42 mile planned route. “We did 37 miles last weekend so this should be just fine to step it up to 42 today” she assured GOG.

Soon all riders were ready and anxious to get the days ride underway. GOG welcomed the new comers to the group and attempted to explain how a no drop ride works. “If you get gapped just keep riding straight, someone will always be at the next turn to make sure you don’t miss it” he boldly announced.

With that the pack was off onto Cary Parkway headed towards Apex. This way out of town has only been accomplished 3 other times by the group. GOG was concerned that those in the lead would miss the first turn, and was more concerned that they would take an incorrect turn into APEX. The split in the group was immediate. The Thorns catapulted ahead splitting that group into two, forcing two additional splits in the Stems, and leaving the Roses at a stop light. GOG was in the first Stems group and was already fighting to maintain that pace and position. He was confident that Jae and the Roses would be able to follow the cue sheets he did not know that the group had been delayed by a red light as he and the others were now closing in on the first turn. He was not confident that the Thorns would pay any attention to the cue sheet and the critical turn as they arrived in APEX. His concern forced him to dig deep to try and catch the Thorns to advise them of the left turn rather than right turn into APEX. He pushed hard and was rewarded by a red light that had held up the Thorns just long enough for him to slide into their midst. He quickly gained the attention from Mr. Bridenbaugh, Dessert Flower, The Rabbit, Top Rookie, and B3 to make sure they new of the left turn vs right turn into APEX. GREEN LIGHT.

GOG was now all alone again.

It did not take long for the stems to swallow GOG up and hold him in a protected spot in the middle of the pack. This worked to everyone’s benefit by allowing GOG to make sure the Stems were properly guided into a left turn at APEX rather than the normal right turn into APEX. As the stems made that turn GOG pulled to the side of the road to ensure any others trailing would also be guided properly. Best Biking Buddy slowed to provide support for GOG. “You go on ahead and get them properly thru the next few turns, we are following the same path as Slow Spokes use to get to Tingen” cried out GOG.

With that information Best Biking Buddy jumped to the task of chasing the group down that was now ahead of him. GOG continued to wait as small groups rolled up to the turn. As each rider slid by GOG he told them to make a right turn at the next light. Finally all but Jae and her group had made the intersection were GOG was waiting. A brief discussion with Mother Theresa to determine the where abouts of Jae suggested that the Roses infact had a cue sheet and should be just fine. Both GOG and Mother Theresa then headed out towards the next turn. As they approached that turn GOG realized some were shooting on past the light and headed straight vs taking the turn as instructed. “Right TURN, RIGHT TURN” he bellowed. The riders slowed and navigated back to the proper route.

The route was shared two nights earlier in the email, the route was described again at the start, the cue sheets were handed out, and yet GOG finds himself still playing the role of sheep dog.

The Thorns N Roses were already split into no less than 4 groups even before leaving the confines of Cary and Apex. The route continued with out incident as it headed out of Apex on everyones favorite fast road known as “Tingen Salt Flats”. This road allows everyone the thrill of riding fast. It was Ann Munn who pulled the group Mother Theresa and GOG were in at a consistent speed of 24 mph. A fantastic pull by her the entire length of Tingen.

The group was splintered as expected as the “Tingen Salt Flats” dissolved into Woods Creek and its 4 nasty hills known to the group as the “4 Horsemen of the Apocalypse”. A short break at the end of Woods Creek allowed all to take on water and for GOG to describe the rest of the route starting with a right turn towards old US 1. “OK everyone ready lets head out” GOG announced. As he prepared to clip in Mother Theresa was leading 3 of the riders left on Friendship, away from old US 1 and toward Sharon Harris. This would allow them to add an additional 5 miles to the planed route. GOG thought ‘WOW’ they are really riding well today and looking for extra miles as well. #1 in the Bush was following GOG and shouting back to the others “You Are Going the Wrong Way”. GOG looked in his mirror to see Mother Theresa and the others performing a perfect U turn. Apparently they were not planning to do extra miles after all, just did not pay attention to the information provided in the cue sheet or verbally by GOG. The group enjoyed the early morning shade provided by Friendship as they rolled on towards Old US 1. It was #1 in the Bush that set the pace for the group as she maintained the pull position at speeds reaching 20 + mph. From there they made the easy transition onto Olive Humie and once again enjoyed the shade provided by that section of road. It was on Humie Olive that Mother Theresa pulled the pack along at speeds of 20+ mph. GOG was happy to suck on all the ladies tires as he enjoyed the protection of being in the draft line. Some how he knew he was going to suffer latter in the ride. GOG has been on his bike only twice during the previous 2 months. He knew today’s ride would be the furthest he had ridden in a long time.

At the end of Humie Olive the group slid right onto busy New Hill Holliman for a short mile or two before making the left onto Toddy Goodwin.

Toddy Goodwin is peppered with small rolling hills and the pavement is rough enough to drain the strength from the legs, back, and arms. The group splintered during the run towards Beaver Creek on Toddy Goodwin. GOG pushed himself in an effort to attack each of the small climbs. This would prove later to have been a poor move on his part. The group came together once again at the end of Toddy Goodwin to once again take on water and a short rest. “We get a long rest and can take on new water just down the road at Wilsonville” GOG announced as he readied himself to clip in. He then headed towards Highway 64 and the rest stop. Immediate he recognized the early signs of a BONK. Slight nausea, light headed, a desire to yawn, no power in the legs. As the group rolled into the gas station on Highway 64 GOG parked his bike and went into purchase a gallon of water for the group to share. He topped everyone’s water bottles off and then sat on the window ledge to try and recover from the ever growing BONK. Others in the group offered him GU, power bars, and Shot Blocks to help. He sampled one Shot Block and a power bar loaded with caffeine and sugar. It took GOG a long time to realize he was not going to get any better. “OK lets mount up” he was heard grumbling under his breath.

The group pulled out of the gas station and lined up for the sprint across Highway 64’s short green light. Once upon Farrington GOG once again took the reigns and led the group all the way to Martha’s Chapel. It was there that Mother Theresa exchanged the pull position and powered her way all the way to the top only to have to stop and wait on those she shattered in her wake. From here the group was led onto Luter Shop and headed towards its end at Green level. Just as the group reached the Tobacoo Trail GOG spied a single rider headed in the opposite direction. After a short delay both riders pointed at each other. “TIM” cried GOG. It took GOG a moment to gather himself only to notice Tim had started to perform a U turn just as GOG was also performing a U turn. “Keep going” he shouted to the others in his group as he and Tim Travitz (Slow Tim) both advanced on each other. It took little time for the two to engage with GOG performing another U turn putting both on the path back towards Cary and the Start Finish for the days ride. “How Are You” asked GOG. “Good, just getting back on the bike for the second time after a year” replied Tim. “I need to ride a lot to get into shape to ride with you guys”, “I have been reading the blog and you guys are riding too strong for me currently” Slow Tim complained. “The Blog does not explain how most of us ride, It is usually from the perspective of the Thorns, The rest of us ride much slower and usually shorter distances” GOG informed Slow Tim.

“Good”, “I might consider coming out to join you then” Slow Tim replied.

The group was now making their way onto Green Level followed by the turn onto Carpenter Fire Station. Slow Tim continued to ride and visit with GOG all the way to the Preston Neighborhood. It was there that he said his goodbyes and headed back home. GOG was again starting to BONK in a big way. Mother Theresa and the others led the way onto the last 2 miles dictated by the hills of Crabtree Crossing. GOG was starting to BONK even more as he slipped onto GrabTree Crossing. “SHADE on the left, Must Rest in the SHADE” GOG was now talking to himself. Without delay he pulled across the road, unclipped, slowed, stopped, dismounted, pulled the bike off the road and leaned it against a tree, pulled both water bottles from their cages, removed his helmet, sat down in the grass, crossed his legs, and dowsed his head with hot water form one of the water bottles. “AHHHHHHHH” repeat the dowsing “AHHHHH”.

As GOG sat in the shade runners past and waved, automobiles past, a family of bicyclist past. Then as if my magic Mother Theresa was there infront of him. “You OK” she asked nervously. “Yea just started to BONK” GOG responded. Then Jae Brainard ad the group she was shepherding rolled up to GOG having just made the turn onto Crabtree Crossing. GOG and Jae discussed the challenges the Roses had as the start of the days ride and how they cleverly resolved the issue to the follow most of the days route after that. “We were passed by the Thorns on Tingen” Jae explained to GOG. Just then Best Biking Buddy rolled up to the group having also just made the turn onto the final few miles of the route. He along with all the others were making sure GOG was OK. “Thanks everyone, I have been off the bike far too long and today’s ride really challenged my conditioning” GOG explained. GOG then began to stir signaling to all that he was indeed ready to complete the last 2 miles. This signal allowed all to turn and head towards the finish. It was B3 who remained to validate GOG was in fact planning to limp on. B3 did not leave GOGs side as GOG slugged his way to the end.

“You must have done more miles than planed” GOG suggested to B3. “Yea the group I was will followed the Thorns onto Big Woods after the rest stop at Wilsonville” he responded.

“why did you stop and check on me?” GOG asked B3.

“saw a Yellow clad Buddy sitting under a tree, with several other gathered around gaining enlighten and I wanted to gain enlighten as well” answered B3 with a grin on his face. “NICE” answered GOG.

End of days results

Roses completed 40 miles and did so ahead of some of the Stems. Nicely done.

One set of stems riding with GOG completed 42 miles at around 16.4 mph

One Set of Stems riding with B3 completed 52 miles at a good clip

Thorns completed 52 miles as well

Sunday July 3rd.

Go hard and go again with CSH or
Go easy and enjoy the 30 miles out to Lake Jordan and back.

Those in attendance included:
Jae Braindard
Scott Clark – Turbo Charger – Go Hard and Go again with CSH
Jim Cobb – The Rabbit
Ginny Davis
Rod Davis
Marianne Mahn - #1 in the Bush
Todd McBride – Best Bikin Buddy (B3)
Sharon Prochazka
Shawn Richardson – Dessert Flower (on his white fixie and wearing his TNR Jersey) – Go hard Go again
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie – a ride leader the group can count on.
Kevin Smit – GOG
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa
Chris Stark
Emily Edens – second time with the group.

The days route has been ridden several times. It mimics the CSH route out to Lake Jordan and back. However it does so in reversed order so those who want to jump in with CSH can do so as TNR is on the return legs of the route.

The days ride was uneventful. Dessert Flower and Turbo Charger were both released early. Those two made it known they planned to do extra miles by jumping into CSH on the way back into Cary. All others would complete the route within their own pace. Many were planning to ride the next day on the Fire Cracker ride and were using this days ride to stay loose. A notible event occured on "Kevin's Crawl". Mother Theresa descided to challeng GOG on this sacred piece of blacktop held for GOG to always tke the sprint up Farington from Martha's Chaple to Holland Chaple road. She attacked as if possed by Capn Carbon. GOG began to BONK late in the ride yet again, however he did not perform the yellow Buddha in the shade of a tree maneuver like he did the day before.

Fathers Day Weekend rides

2011-06-19T17:00:00.000-05:00

Many New Faces

Saturday, June 18th

The Saturday Morning ride culminated quite well with approximately 20+/- riders meeting together in the parking lot of Brueggers.

The chore of the day was to find a route that would offer challenge, adventure, the right distance. The group stood around in deep contemplation until a man with a colored cape / jersey appeared ..whom I have been informed goes by the name Captain America.

Mr America provided an outstanding route that would take the group into new unsettled lands. We all agreed and were off.

The route out of Cary was traditional and we entered toward the historic district of Western Cary that included the Fire Station and CVS store. At the Green Level Church light, prevailing voices suggested that we continue to the corner of Upchuck Ave. As the flock rounded the corner, the riders got into formation: group A, those willfully entering Hypoxia and Group B those with good common sense.

The friends entered the 200 meter climb feeling strong and tackling the challenges put before them. The group also was very grateful to have broken the Green Flash curse with no flats (section where the Green Flash was senselessly flatted in the week prior). Up and around the corner to the holding section the group went. All made it to the top and were ready to go.

The riders continued on by signaling down Mt Pisgah/Ferrell/Lewter and culminating at the open section of 751. At this point, it was announced that there would be a "Race to the Lake". With this the lead out trains organized and everyone was ready to squander the glycogenious reserves acquired from yesterday's breakfast of Lucky Charms. The race was conducted in Lady like and Gentleman like fashion with Caption Carbon throwing down the hammer and announcing his return from Retirement with a powerful acceleration. The group caught their breath at the corner and headed to Lystra gas station for tasty treats.

After a short intermission, everyone took their seats and was ready to tackle Mr Jack Bennett. Jack Bennett in general is known as a very comfortable, stable and likable route when taken from the 15/501 side. But Jack breaks character and unleashes his fury from the Lystra entrance. The agony was very impressive, as the group dug deep to climb the long and arduous hill. It is realistic to suggest that Jack lost a few friends that day.

At the stop of 15/501 a few of our friends said adieu and went on their merry way back to the Thorns and Roses Club House. One final group remained with Captain America at the helm.

From this point on it got a little foggy and entered entirely new territory.

Available field notes detail that the group entered many scarcely used roads, crossed a huge bridge only wide enough for those on bicycle or foot to enter and at one point there may have been a unicorn. Both those facts are not easily confirmed, especially the scarcely used road portion.

The remaining group arrived back at the clubhouse at about 12 noon with 50 to 55 miles behind them with an average speed of 17 to 18 mph. Many many new faces and guests rode that day and were a wonderful addition to the group.
========================

Fathers Day Ride

Sunday, June 19th

Another beautiful day was on tap for the Fathers Day ride. About 12 people were riding with the group with some additional attendance as a result of Special Father's Day privileges. As everyone discussed the plan of the day, Best Bikin Buddy (B3) took ownership and communicated where the members would go, the spirit of the ride and that we would be riding at a recovery pace. Everyone agreed and the group took to their bikes. Just as with the day prior, the cyclists went through Preston Passage at a "talkable" pace.

The group discussed activities of the day, yesterdays charity ride and procrastinated chores left to be completed by day end.

All was well through Carpenter Fire Station and cornering up Green Level Church. Some of the newer riders were explaining that they just got into cycling and really enjoying it, especially with the cast and characters of the Thorns and Roses.

As the group continued out to Lewter shop, some behavioral issues developed. B3 and Cobbmeister (Rabbit) in a great turn of character actually provoked county line sprints, this was a remarkable sight.

The two drifted out of the pace line and were accelerating at an estimated 22 to 27 mile per hour pace towards their goal. The move took most off guard and the dynamic duo easily secured the victory. The guests found the horseplay very entertaining to watch. After the short sprint, the group came together once again and road through the Berry Patch.

At the corner of 751, the ridding gaggle took care to negotiate the traffic and to safely enter Martha's Chapel. Heading down Martha's, everyone worked together and coalesced quite nicely at a well tempoed rhythm. Among the quiet, once again Cobbmeister and B3 emerged, looking to complete the "box set" of trophies for their mantel -- and punched it. Both victorious winning the 2 selections of the day.

With the lake portion complete, the group then entered their homeward return towards Hollands Chapel where the cyclists basked in the sun, enjoying their time with new and old friends. The cyclists road for approximately 31 miles at a 17 to 18 mph pace.

The Thorns N Roses shatter like fine crystal in the dishwasher

2011-06-12T17:00:00.001-05:00

5 flats in two days.

Saturday June 11th.

Time Trail tucked into a challenging route. Lesson learned – Time trial is fun, everyone enjoyed it, but it should not be part of a fully featured route.

Those in attendance included;
Sheila Augustine – Total Recall
Doug Augustine – Rumble Strip
Cort Bennett
June Bennett
David Bridenbaugh – Mr. Bridenbaugh
Kaleo Bullard – The Volcano
Angie Chiatello – Has a new nickname based on her ride several weeks ago were the group had to cover her up with layers of jackets just to get her warm. Here new nickname is COLD BLOODED.
Jim Cobb – The Rabbit
Steve Cope – Capn Carbon, Chiwawa, Angry Chipmunk, the gnat.
Sondra Devincenzo – She was given a nickname on the days ride. This came about as a small group of cyclists were headed back into Cary after the ride. It was at the lights were Hogans Way crosses over Davis drive. This light is a long red light. GOG pulled onto the side walk and pressed the walk button. Still after what felt like 20 minutes the lights started to change. ‘We have Yellow” cried GOG. Just then Sondra rolled out into the middle of the intersection. The group still had red. The traffic on Davis had Yellow, and there was Sondra acting as well placed Traffic Barricade. So from now on Sondra will be known as Barricade.
Lee Duncan – Sonic Boom
Paul Estes
Matt Fowler
Jeff Giordano – Claim Jumper
Elizabeth Hardy - Now with a nickname. Ever since she first joined the group in early June she has been pushing the pace and distance for the Thorns. She loves to ride fast and is always willing to do extra miles if the chance arises. She is an OVER ACHIEVER, she BEGS for MORE, She TAKES IT and DISHES IT OUT. Hmmm which one should we use?
Patti Lewis – Patti Melt
Marianne Mahn - #1 in the Bush
Todd McBride – B3 (Best Bikin Buddy)
Elizabeth Partin
Mo Percy
Stephen Percy
Dean Rains
Mariann Ramsayer
Shawn Richardson – The Dessert Flower on his white fixie
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie
Ken Schuster
Paul Schmidt
Kevin Smit – GOG
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa
Alisha Woodroff

New to the group;
Cathy Busby – GOG’s Physical Therapist – she was able to get him back on the bike earlier than expected.
Kate Nell
Stacy Hogan - She did a slow fall to one side at a stop sign near the end of the ride. As she went down the chain ring took a good chunk of meat out of her leg. Another rider in the group had a band aid to cover the wound once it had been rinsed off. Stacy got a BOO BOO, and another nickname is born.
Cindy Avrette
Robert Smithson

GOG and Mother Theresa had spent time mapping a 61 mile route for the Thorns. They even ssaved the map as a pdf, and wrote in several turn by turn instructions. The route was shared in the Thursday email as well as posted on the blog. The route was designed to include a 5 mile time trial starting at about 17 miles into the days ride. The route was also engineered to allow the Roses to participate in the time trial and then head back to Cary with an expected 35 mile distance for the end of their ride. GOG did not calculate this very accurately and the Roses ended up with just under 40 miles total. This distance was the furthest ever completed by several of the Roses, and was their first ever time trail experience. The route was also designed to allow those looking to ride close to 45 miles the opportunity to exclude the section of road known as Big Woods. This proved to also be a miss calculation by GOG. Those turning back early from the Thorns route ended up with close to 55 miles. The Thorns who elected to continue onto Big Woods found themselves completing 70 miles finishing in the heat of the day. GOG could not figure out how the Thorns ended up do so many extra miles. He learned that the Thorns elected not to follow the route during the last few miles into Cary. When they were at Wilsonville they studied the route and realized GOG had thrown additional hills in during that last section of the route. However in doing so he designed the shortest possible way back into Cary from Wilsonville. By altering the route to eliminate the hills the Thorns ended up with several extra miles putting them at the 70 mile mark.

The group that assembled in the parking lot was so large that GOG had to delegate duties to others. He asked Top Rookie to help check in those in attendance. He assigned Mother Theresa the task of making sure new riders to the group signed a waiver. GOG had his hands full just trying to remember how to ready himself and his bike for the days ride. GOG was told he could ride by his PT trainer but he was asked to limit it to 20 miles. He would accomplish that by NOT doing the Time Trail, and by acting as one of the ride leaders for the ROSES.

Just prior to leaving the start GOG gave a brief description of the days ride including the time trial aspect of the route. He made sure anyone who wanted a printed copy of the route had one. Then the pack was off towards RTP. The first split in the pack happened within the first two miles as the leading group made the turn onto Morrisville Parkway and the trailing group were held up by traffic. GOG shouted up to those ahead to help us regroup at Lewis Stevens. Once there the entire pack was back together as they then made their way onto McCrimmon followed by a turn onto Church Street. From there the group wound their way thru a new development that dumped them out on its other side onto Davis Drive near Hobson. The group was then directed to make the left turn onto Hobson and headed towards Lewis Stevens in RTP. A left turn on to Lewis Stevens had the newly splintered pack headed towards Kit Creek and the starting point for the Time Trial. Those in the lead had been told prior to the start to hold up at Kit Creek and Lewis Stevens. The intent was to have all riders ride the out and back 5 mile route at a pace that would allow them time to observe the road and traffic situation. This would help them later judge for themselves how fast to ride thru corners and other potential hazardous areas. While the pack did this GOG waited on the side of the road in the shade. He had to limit his miles so by not riding the time trial route and not doing the time trial he would be eliminating 10 miles off the planed route for the ROSES.

As the riders returned to the start of the TT it was learned that Dessert Flower had flatted and others were there to assist him.

Once everyone had a chance to observe the route GOG asked them to sign in by groups. Those planning to do the full 61 miles would go first, followed by those planning to do 45 miles, and lastly the ROSES would sign up. GOG explained where the start and finish lines were for the TT, he also made everyone aware they needed to time themselves and he would record their results. The group did a fine job of organizing its self and starting the event. Then GOG noticed Mr. Bridenbaugh was preparing to stage for the event with a flat front tire. “DUDE did you know you had a FLAT?” he asked. Total discuss suddenly appeared on Mr. Bridenbaugh’s face. He immediately went to work to change his flat.

GOG once again settled into the shade to wait for the first rider to finish the TT and to provide their results.

Here are the results shared with GOG in order of sigh up; (these can be compared to the times from last year’s TT in early December at this location, and will be used to compare to the next time the group does this TT again in a couple of months).

Name, Time, Last years time

Cathy Busby 16:50

Jim Cobb 13:55 15:18

Liz Hardy 15:49

Paul Estes 15:02

Rob Robertson 14:49

David Bridenbaugh 14:12 14:15

Jeff Giordano 13:17958

Kate Nell 17:00

Chip Smithson 14:30

Paul Schmidt 15:15

Doug Augustine 15:02

Ken Schuster 15:52

Alisha Woodrof 17:30

Dean Rains 15:00

June Bennett 16:50

Cort Bennett 16:05

Mo Percy 17:45

Marianne Mahn 19:00

Cindy Avrette 18:00

Patti Lewis 3 others passed her

Shawn Richardson 13:01 13:51

Lee Duncan 13:18 13:54

Upon completion of the TT the groups were each sent on their way. Dessert Flower, Sonic Boom, The Rabbit, B3, Top Rookie, Capn Carbon all working together to lead the Thorns on the finishing touches of the planned 61 mile route. Mother Theresa would lead those looking to follow the Thorns at a slightly slower pace and who planned to turn early with an expected distance of 45 miles. GOG was then ready to lead the ROSES on thru their final miles back to the start/finish in Cary expecting to complete 30 -35 miles.

It was soon after all three groups headed out that the Thorns and Stems shattered into many pieces.

Rumor has it that Capn Carbon and a few others peeled off after the climb on Upchuck. It was at this same location that Dessert Flower had yet another flat, and he and Sonic Boom made the smart decision to turn back since Dessert Flower had no additional space tubes. Mother Theresa’s group remained in tact all the way to Lake Jordan and back to the start finish even though they ended up completing 10 extra miles than advertised. The Thorns made it to the gas station at Lystra. There was a debate on whether to continue on the planned route or to turn back at that point. Several folks followed B3’s lead and headed back down Martha’s chapel and on towards home. The Rabbit, Liz (Begs For More), Top Rookie elected to attack Big Woods. With their altered route near the end to eliminate the planed hills they completed 70 miles finishing in the full sunshine and heat of the early afternoon.

Sunday June 12th

Two more Flats.

The days route is the CSH route in reverse allowing those looking for extra miles to jump in with CSH as the Thorns N Roses are headed back and CSH is headed out of Cary.

Those in attendance included;
Natasha Bosch
Jae Brainard – The Matriarch
Jim Cobb – The Rabbit
Steve Cope – Capn Carbon – on his carbon fiber bike – no steal is real for him today.
Liz Hardy – Takes it and Dishes it Out, Overachiever, Begs for More…….
Perry Hurt – P.O.E.
Marianne Mahn - #1 in the Bush
Todd McBride – B3 (Best Bikin Buddy)
Shawn Richardson – Dessert Flower – on his white Fixie
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie – on his Fixie
Paul Schmidt
Suzy Schmidt
Kevin Smit – GOG
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa

Folks new to the group included:
Roger Ehrlick – Got his nickname even before the ride began. Read on to learn what his nickname is.

The group was almost fully gathered and prepped for the days ride when one of the riders reminded Jae that Jae was supposed to bring a spare bike for her. Jae immediately dropped everything, climbed into her car and headed back home to fetch the missing bicycle. As she headed out of the parking lot everyone heard a large POP. Roger was standing next to his old School Steel Frame touring bike when the front tire blew. There might be a nickname in this for Roger – BLOW OUT. Perry – P.O.E. sprang into action. He pulled out his tire irons, a spare tube, and a CO2 cartridge. He then efficiently changed the blown tube for a new one, inflated it and had Roger ready to Roll.

Those who wanted to ride the RTP route with Jae elected to hang out until her return. Those looking to head towards Lake Jordan were ready to go. GOG released the group just as Jea – The Matriarch rolled back into the parking lot with the spare bike. The two groups said their goodbyes. The Thorns N Roses had split even before the first stroke of the peddles.

Those riding towards Lake Jordan knew the route very well having done it many Sundays. The concept is to ride the CSH route in reverse so those who want extra miles can jump into the CSH ride at its 5 - 10 mile point.

GOG was riding near the middle of the pack in an effort to keep an eye on those in the lead as well as those trailing. As the group entered the round About in Preston they were met with Police and banners, and road cones. It was learned that the neighborhood was having a fun run for the kids. The cyclists were guided around the event, however no one realy paid close attention to the instructions, least of all GOG. He found himself at the front of the pack once it was released by the police. GOG had no clue what the detour instructions were and rode straight onto the course. Luckily the even had not started yet so no harm was done. The group at that point had been joined by another cyclist who was headed out for a solo ride. She looked to be a very serious rider, one who could give the Thorns a run for their money. As she started to chat with the group she commented on Dessert Flowers Bike. “What a Gorgeous Bike, I love the white”. “Yea he has lots of Pretty Bikes” GOG responded.

The group paused long enough a the Big Chicken to confirm all were to make the left turn towards High House. This was the next serious split in the group. The new solo rider, Dessert Flower, Capn Carbon, The Rabbit, B3, Top Rookie, and Begs for More all sprinted on towards High House, and points beyond. Those left behind included, Mother Theresa, #1 in the Bush, Blow OUT, GOG, and P.O.E. Even that group splintered before the first turn. Mother Theresa was setting a strong pace with #1 in the Bush right on here rear wheel. Blow Out and GOG were behind them and P.O.E was falling behind. GOG kept a close eye on P.O.E knowing he always turns back early. Suddenly P.O.E was observed slowing, stopping, getting off his bike, leaning down to check on something and then darting off the road into the woods. GOG pulled out of the line and turned back to see if there is anything wrong and to see if P.O.E needed help. Out of the woods darts P.O.E, hopes on his bike and continues on the route. GOG slows and does another u-turn to ride next to the trailing rider. “I had to rescue a baby Turtle” P.O.E informed GOG. “Once on a ride I did not stop to rescue a Turtle and ended up with two flats one after the other”. “It was a signal to never ignore the turtle, ever since then I have always rescued a turtle from the road if I ride by. I have not had a Flat since” P.O.E proudly announced.

The group slowly came back together before heading down High House and crossing Davis. They formed a nice single file draft line as the road narrowed on Green Level. Just as the pack was preparing for the climb up to White Oak they spied three of the Thorns alongside the road fixing a FLAT. This was the second one of the day and the 5th one of the weekend. GOG slowed only enough to ask if they had everything they needed and to tell them he and the others would mossy on down the road. ‘WE are Good” was the cry from the splintered Thorns. Those working on the flat included; Top Rookie, B3, and Beg for More. It was her tire that had the flat.

GOG and his band of riders continued their climb up to White Oak, with Mother Theresa leading the charge. They all made the turn there towards the T intersection at Luther Shop. The Thorns N Roses were now split into 4 groups each with 5 or less cyclists per group, and each group with a least one person acting as ride leader working to ensure all were accounted for and taken care of.

As GOG and his pack completed the run on White Oak they found the leading Thorns all poised at Luter Shop looking to regroup with their fallen friends. The solo rider had apparently enjoyed riding with the group but could not afford the time to sit and wait with the group. “The others are behind us fixing a Flat” GOG informed the awaiting Thorns. “You guys might as well take off so you can jump in with CSH before they head out this way”.

The three remaining Thorns sprang into action and were soon out of sight.

GOG and his group continued the route towards Lake Jordan. Mother Theresa pulled the group at speeds over 19 mph the full length of Martha’s Chapel. A short break a Lake Jordan was followed by a strong run up Kevin’s Crawl ending with the sweeping turn onto Holland’s Chapel.

It was a smooth ride back towards Cary as the group elected to head into town on Green Hope High School road. This was followed with a short cyclocross over the train tracks. The group then wound their way back into Cary retuning on Crabtree Crossing. They completed 31 miles at about 16.5 mph average. GOG was definitely feeling the last two days of biking having been off the bike for over 6 weeks.

First weekend in June 2011

2011-06-05T19:59:00.000-05:00

June 4 and 5.

Large turn outs

Lots of new faces.

Those in attendance on June 4th included:
June Benett
Cort Bennett
Jae Brainard – The Matriarch
David Bridenbaugh – Mr. Bridenbaugh
Kaleo Bullard – Volcano
Ron Clanton – Just Ron
Tracy Clanton – Rose Peddler
Jim Cobb – The Rabbit
Ginny Davis
Rod Davis
Megan Heggarty – The Blood Hound – back with the group after a long time away – Welcome back
Sean Kurdys – back with the group - Welcome back.
Patti Lewis – Patti Melt
Marianne Mahn - #1 in the Bush
Todd McBride – B3 (Best Bikin Buddy)
Lance Minor
Mo Percy
Shawn Richardson – Dessert Flower – on his white and blue Fixie
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie
Paul Schmidt
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa
Kiki Rodu – Twinkle Toes - Jumping in during the ride

New Faces joining the group for the first time Included:
Allisha Woodroof
Dean Rains
Lisa Petty
Mariann Ramsayer
Natasha Bosch
Suzy Schmidt

Welcome all you new riders to the Thorns N Roses.

After meeting and greeting all the cyclists, and getting Liability releases from those how had not yet filled one out GOG described the route to those who he felt could lead the pack thru the days ride.

The route was designed to be relatively flat and cover 50 miles with at least two opportunities to regroup. Mother Theresa volunteered to lead from the back of the Stems. Mr. Bridenbaugh, The Dessert Flower, The Rabbit, Top Rookie, and B3 would all participate in helping Sheppard the Thorns and Stems from the front and middle of the pack.

The Matriarch and Just Ron volunteered to lead the ROSES on a shorter more relaxed paced route out to Lake Jordan and back. GOG made sure that anyone looking for a gentler kinder ride should elect to follow those two on the days ride. Over 10 riders quickly slide into place to make sure they knew who to follow and to be counted as one of the ROSES on the days ride.

GOG then briefed all the riders on what to expect and how everyone needs to work together to ensure “The Spirit” of a no drop ride is upheld. He asked those who were new to the group to raise their hands, and for the others to make sure they introduced themselves and worked to make the new riders feel welcomed.

By 8:10 the riders were off to enjoy the days rides.

Upon completion of the rides the ROSES covered 28 miles near a 16 mph average pace.

The stems completed the 50 mile route averaging 16.5 mph average

The Thorns completed the 50 miles at a 19+ mph pace and were proud to announce they were able to keep the pack together. The Thorns were able to hammer and yet provide for a no drop style ride.

A no drop ride for all the groups was accomplished. Thanks to all who helped make sure no one was lost along the way.

Several of the first time riders with the group announced they would be back and they enjoyed the route.

Sunday June 5th

Sunday recovery ride.

Another large turn out for a Sunday ride.

Three NEW NICKNAMES are born.

One awarded to a first time rider with the group.

Two awarded to long time participant with the Thorns N Roses.

Additional new faces joining in for the first time with the Thorns N Roses.

Those in attendance included:

Sheila Augustine - Finally with a Nick Name.

Kevin and Theresa have been working hard to catch Sheila in the act of doing or saying something on one of the rides that could help with a nick name for her. Well she still has not done anything memorable that could be used against her for a nick name. Upon much reflection Kevin and Theresa turned their efforts towards Sheila’s character traits to try and come up with a nick name. Even that was difficult because Sheila has no character flaws that could be used to help conjure up a nick name. So the two had to run down the long list of positive character traits and boil those down to any that might be used to help generate a nick name.

The one character trait, or skill, that kept coming to the top was Sheila's uncanny ability to remember names. Both Kevin and Theresa have serious mental blocks towards remembering names and faces, so this skill of Sheila’s was the one that really stood out. She can recall a name even having been away from the group for long periods of time.

So from this day forward Sheila Augustine will be remembered by her new nick name.

TOTAL RECALL.

Others on the ride this day:

Rob Benson
David Bridenbaugh – Mr. Bridenbaugh
Jim Cobb – The Rabbit
Tim Devinney – The Love Train, The Love Boat
Jeff Hoffert
Peggy Hoffert – 2nd time with the group

Perry Hurt - Finally with a Potential Nick Name. And with all great nick names comes a degree of Innuendo. The story behind Perry’s nick name is. Each time he rides he has to leave the ride early – to go into work. We enjoy his company and feel sad that he has to abort the ride before the end. So there are several potential Nick Names for Perry. These include: POE (Pulls out Early), DNF (Does not Finish), Drop Out, Abort, …….. There are likely others to consider.

Patti Lewis – Patti Melt
Todd McBride – B3 (Best Bikin Buddy)
Shawn Richardson – Killer Bee – on his black and gold Fixie.
Paul Schmidt
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa.

Riding for the first time with the group:

Rebeka Branagan – first time and she earns a nick name. The story behind her nick name is. As the pack was getting ready to roll out of the parking lot Betsy was straddling her bike. As she raised her right foot to clip in she realized her left ankle was pinned between her crank arm and chain stay. She lost balance and fell against her car, but did not fall over. This action caused the entire pack to suddenly stop creating a FALSE START. So from the first ride with the Thorns N Roses Betsy will be known as FALSE START. Well done Beka.

Michele Rivera
Elizabeth Partin
Rob Benson

Welcome to the Thorns N Roses.

As the riders readied themselves GOG shared the days route with the ride leaders.

GOG had decided to create an out and back route that would be as flat as possible. The intent of the days ride was also to provide an opportunity for those looking to ride farther and faster a chance to do that during the second half of the ride. This was to be accomplished by getting the group out to Lake Jordan and headed back into Cary just in time to catch the CSH riders as they were headed out of Cary. GOG anticipated that the two groups would intersect each other somewhere near Cary Glenn. This is typically when CSH breaks into the A and B ride groups.

Those looking for more miles would turn around and go back out to Lake Jordan with CSH and end up with 40+ miles for the day and have the chance to Hammer with the A group of CSH. The rest of the Thorns N Roses could continue their planned route on in to the parking lot having completed 30 miles at about 16+ mph average. The plan worked flawlessly.

Those who jumped in with CSH included:

Killer Bee
The Love Train
The Rabbit
Jeff Hoffert
Rob Benson

The Thorn N Roses returned to the parking lot all having enjoyed the days ride. False Start commented that the route was a flat a route as any that could be designed in the area. It was also the furthest and fastest she had gone all year on a bike. Well done False Start. Well done Thorns N Roses.

Memorial Day weekend rides

2011-05-30T20:00:00.001-05:00

Three days of fun on a bicycle.

Memorial Day weekend rides.

Saturday May 28th

Those in attendance included:
Sheila Augustine
Jae Brainard – Matriarch
David Bridenbaugh – Mr. Bridenbaugh
Kaleo Bullard – The Volcano
Tim Divinney – The Love Train, The Love Boat
Lee Duncan – Sonic Boom
Liz Hardy
Beth Gonzalez
Jessica Holland – Twin Peaks
Wendy Just – Just Wendy
Marianne Mahn - #1 in the Bush
Todd McBride – B3 (Best Bikin Buddy)
Joe Pitman – Immortal Man
Sharon Prochazka
Shawn Richardson – The Green Flash on his Green Road bike.
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa
Christine Vitron
Matt Matthews - New to the group (Welcome)
Liz Hardy – a Thorn in ladies Lycra
Carrie Mitran - New to the group (welcome)

GOG had designed a 50 mile route that incorporated several sections known for rolling hills. He was also anxious to have the group ride on the newly opened Roberts road. His route design also subjected the riders to the gradual incline of Tingen when traveling into APEX. GOG even went a step further than normal by printing out and then handing out a cue sheet that described the roads and all turns. This cue sheet did not go into details of what the mileage would be at each turn. Response from those returning to the start after the ride indicated they all enjoyed the route as it was designed.

The Roses elected to anoint Jae as their group leader and all were happy to follow her as she took the group on a 30 -35 mile romp out to lake Jordan and back at a reasonable pace of just around 15 mph average not including stops.

Sunday May 29

Those in attendance included:

Jae Brainard – Matriarch
Josh Carter – Moving Violation – fresh off a strong finish from a resent bike Race.
Tanya Eney
Todd McBride – B3 (Best Bikin Buddy)
Ann Munn
Shawn Richardson – Killer Bee on his black and gold Fixie
Ken Schuster
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa
Tanya Eney
Jim Benell - New to the group (welcome)

The group was led by Mother Theresa and Jae Brainard who marched the pack out to Lake Jordan covering virtually the same route covered by the Roses the day before. A 30 -35 mile route at 16 mph average. Thanks Mother Theresa and Matriarch for helping lead the group.
Moving Violation and Killer Bee tode hard off the front and ended up catching CSH as that group was headed towards lake Jordan. These two turned and chased CSH down and road additional miles with that group. The both finished well ahead of the Thorns N Roses and completed over 40 miles in that effort.

Monday May 30th
Memorial day last minute ride .

Those in attendance included:
David Bridenbaugh – Mr. Bridenbaugh
Paul Eppers
Liz Hardy
Jeff Hoffert
Pam Hoffert - First time with the group and back on the bike after many years (Welcome)
Marianne Mahn - #1 in the Bush
Todd McBride – B3 (Best Bikin Buddy)
Mo Percy
Stephen Perey - First time riding with the group (Welcome)
Joe Pittman – Mr Immortal
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie – on his Fixie
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa
Steve Sparano – Sporadic Steve – Rarely rides with the group – first time this season.
Jennifer McDaniel - New to the group (Welcome)

Mr. Bridenbaugh had organized this day’s ride and had sent out a last minute email to challenge others to join him for a Stem-like ride. His definition of a stem ride is still much faster than most stems chose to attain. He was proudly suggesting that the group would do 35 miles at an 18 mph pace. The route he was describing was laden with many hills. After some winning from the crowed Mr. Bridenbaugh and GOG strategized how best to remove the hills near the end of the route. Mother Theresa was careful to take Note. She did this anticipating the need to alter the route for her and others in the likely event that Mr. Bridenbaugh and other stronger riders still leaned for hills at the end. This proved to be a smart move by Mother Theresa who did in fact bring a small pack of riders thru a flatter alternate for the finishing miles of the days ride.

Three solid days of riding options for all skills and levels of ability. Thank you ride leaders who helped keep and eye on those in attendance.

Those who can constantly be counted on to help Shepard the riders thru the days ride include:
GOG
Mother Theresa
Best Biking Buddy
Love Train
Matriarch
Just Ron
Mr. Bridendbaugh
Capn Carbon
Mr. Immortal
Top Rookie
Others have stepped in to assist on occasions to help keep the spirit of a No Drop ride group alive and well.

May 21st Thorns melt down

2011-05-21T12:39:00.001-05:00

Thank You Lee Duncan - Sonic Boom for this creative account of the days ride for the Thorns.

Classroom Attendance

Immortal Man
Green Flash
Sonic B-M
Nice Man w a New Bike

Title: The Jordan Lake Triangle

What a great turn out. As I rolled into the parking lot on Saturday it was teaming with neon and melt extrusion polyurethane --- AKA spandex.

It had the feel of a summer ride, with lots of friends and a double serving of enthusiasm. As the riders started to get organized we had to find leaders for the different groups. In an effort to provide one possible route, Sonic Boom explained a possible adventure. It was a strange experience, like when a child explains to their parents something that is very important to them, and in the end given the response "well that's very nice dear" with a pat on the head. Not knowing the names of the roads and acting out the turns using interpretive dance was not giving a high level of confidence to the group; not to mention a vague guesstimate of total mileage between 30 and 100 miles. They weren't having it.

Luckily Steve Cope was able to make a more appealing route suggestion to the masses, and off we went. The Thorns started off with about 8 to 10 riders at the beginning of the parking lot, and by the bottom it was reduced to about 4. This was attrition on a dramatic scale. These 4 included a nice man with a new bike, Immortal Man, the Green Flash and Sonic Boom. The fabulous 4 road up to Davis Drive and turned Left at Morrisville Carpenter. The plan for the day was to ride out by Del Web, hit 751, cruise up Fearrington in reverse and up to the Lystra Gas Station. The pace was very brisk with a computer average of about 20 mph up the long incline.

Because of the fast pace, Sonic Boom's legs were ready to explode. Luckily we were at the Lystra gas station and could indulge in tasty visceral fat creating treats. A few moments later Mr Popularity showed up... Capt'n Carbon with his fan club. The rowdy crew overtook the gas station like bike week at Myrtle Beach---all that was needed was the Capt'n in a pair of chaps. Sorry, try and erase that visual if at all possible. Moving on..

After a little while at the snack bar, we lost another one and only had 3 in registered attendance. The 3 Amigos included Immortal Man, the Green Flash, and S-B. Feeling beat to a pulp we decided to indulge in a suffer-fest and headed towards Lystra. For a moment we were excited because a huge group of cyclists turned down the Lystra Concourse --and we welcomed the prospect of climbing the mighty beast amongst the masses. Unfortunately, the cycling mob turned off towards Big Woods and we had to give up on our cycling fantasy.

Up we went climbing the widow maker and eventually meeting at the other side in the un-shade. Everybody knows that Lystra doesn't give up her dead, and so we waited for the final member of the group as we baked in the hot sun. When the 3rd member arrived, we learned that there was a mechanical issue with Immortal man's bike and he needed to return back to the safety of base camp. After verifying his return plan, the group proceeded..which was now down to Mr Flash and SB. The 2 crime fighters continued on...turning left on Jack Bennet and a right up Big Woods. The hills kept coming and coming and Sonic Boom was on the verge of a physical and mental break down. Luckily young Flash was feeling fresh and forged ahead. Not much further down the road a steel splinter took out SB with a puncture-- which was fixed utilizing the cumulative knowledge, skills and equipment among the two surviving members.

And with that, the 2 cruised back and into home plate---finally safe.

Distance: approx 56 miles

Ave speed: approx 19.7 mph

Durham Bulls

2011-05-16T16:06:00.000-05:00

Classroom Attendance

Jim Cobb – The Rabbit
Shawn Richarson - Green Flash
Lee Duncan - Sonic B-M
Todd McBride – B3 (Best Bikin Buddy)

Title: Durham Bulls

On Saturday morning Team Thorn consolidated in the parking lot wondering if we could outrun the rainy forecast that was predicted. We could stay close and play it safe, or we could explore new terrain in Durham where we have limited experience and greater interaction with motorists. Exactly, we chose the Durham route.
Off we went utilizing the escape hatch out of Cary and enjoyed the typical commuter route into the triangle, minus the spilled coffee in the crotch. It was a nice change with windy roads and some hills to start. The group stayed together and worked well as we escorted ourselves beyond the Cary city limits. A few miles into the ride, we enjoyed the calming delight of some stop lights, train tracks and other roadside attractions including a routine traffic ticket for one unlucky driver. If they only had decided to ride their bike…

One unexpected observation was that there were a lot of hills on the route. Seriously, a ton. The mountainous terrain jumped out of no where, punishing the lungs and our resolve to overcome the mighty giants of Durham. And then that resolve went out the window as a few pulled off to go to McDonalds.

What is this!? Oh, they aren’t getting coffee and hash browns, they just need the gentle embrace of the toilet koozie (not the outdoorsy type for bio relief). A few moments later we were back on the road and climbing the hills again. This continued on for about an eternity, but we loved it because it felt like an adventure.

As the riders approached Cary prefecture, it was determined that we still had time on the shot clock, so the Green Flash suggested that we add on another mini loop. Because we had been so successful staying out of the rain, why not push our look a little further? And we did.

The group pulled into the parking lot just shy of 12 noon and were extremely ecstatic to be able to get out and ride and enjoy time with friends.

Distance: approx 45 miles
Ave speed: approx 18.5 mph
Calories burned: Equiv. to 1 Happy Meal

Mothers Day weekend and Time Trial

2011-05-07T09:07:00.000-05:00

In attendance
Sheila Augustine
Jae Brainard – Matriarch
Kaleo Bullard – The Volcano
Elise Cobb – Popsicle, The Beast
Jim Cobb – The Rabbit
Ginny Davis
Lee Duncan – Sonic Boom
Jeff Giordino – Claim Jumper
Beth Gonzalez
Jessica Holland – Twin Peaks
John Majikes – Welcome back to the group
Marianne Mahn - #1 in the Bush
Erica Mancuso
Peng Mok – Welcome back to the group
Mo Percy – Welcome back to the group
Joe Pittman – Immortal Man
Robert Renke
Shawn Richardson – Dessert Flower – on his white FIXIE
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa
Chris Stark
Todd Pechner – Slow Todd - Joining the group on the route

New to the group are the following riders.
Erin Cole
Danny Viason
Christine Vitron
Sarah Tacker

GOG was there to meet and great the riders, and to share his plans for the days ride route.

GOG had been discussing with several riders the concept of periodic time trials allowing riders to monitor their improvement over the course of the years cycling season.

GOG has 3 separate time trial routes each one increasing in distance and difficulty.
He had announced in the email on Thursday that the group would be exposed to the opportunity to perform a 2.2 mile time trial. First of the season and the shortest and easiest.

GOG described to the Thorns the planed route and where on that route the time trial would be conducted. He had previously described to Mother Theresa the route the Roses could do that would also place them at the start of the Time Trial spot for those who wanted to participate.
GOG informed all that he would be at the time trial location to help facilitate the recording of individual’s times as they conducted their self timed individual time trial.

The group left the parking lot late due to GOGs need to log who was in attendance, the signing of Waivers by those who had not yet done so this season, and to describe to the group what and how the days route would be conducted.

The Thorns were the first to arrive at the time trial location. GOG passed around a signup sheet for all to log their name and start order. He went on to remind the group that the course is not closed to traffic so they needed to ensure intersections were clear of traffic as well as sand and gravel that could create a hazardous situation during the sharp fast turns on the course.

With that the Thorns all readied themselves for the next 2.2 miles.

Here is the order of riders and their self timed results.
Joe Pittman – Immortal Man – 6:12
Todd Pechner – Slow Todd – 6:03
Shawn Richardson – Dessert Flower – 5:45 on a fixed gear bike – single speed
Jessica Holland – twin Peaks – 7:00
Jeff Giordino – Claim Jumper – 6:00
Erica Mancuso – 6:55
Chris Stark – 6:15
Jim Cobb – 6:24
Ginny Davis – 6:54
Robert Renke – 6:39.1 – to be exact
Elise Cobb – the Beast - 7:25 – with a broken wing. Still no healing of the broken collar bone.
Lee Duncan – Sonic Boom – 5:52
John Majikes – 7:00
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie – 6:42

Just as the Thorns were finishing up their time trials the ROSES rolled into the staging area.
They watched the last couple finish up. They observed folks gasping for air with strained looks on their faces. This sight generated a great deal of discussion within the ranks of the ROSES.

The Thorns provided limited rest for those just finishing their time trail before heading out to complete the 50 miles planed for the days total distance.

GOG turned his attention to the ROSES to ask who was gong first. NO one volunteered. All were talking like they did not want to put themselves through what they saw as the last couple of Thorns had crossed the finish line of their 2.2 all out effort. GOG remined the group that there will be several opportunities to do a Time Trial during the season with the value being the ability to compare their improvement over time.

“I will do it” announced Christine. This opened up the flood gates with almost all ROSES electing to do the individual time trial.

Here is the list of ROSES in order of start
Kaleo Bullard – The Volcano – 7:20
Christine – 7:05
Sarah – Foot Loose (got her name on this event) – 7:07
Peng Mok – 6:57
Danny – 1:30 – stop watch challenged.
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa – 7:24
Erin – 7:40
Mary Ann Mahn - #1 in the Bush – 8:30 – just recovering from Bronchitis
Mo Percy – 7:50
Sheila Augustine – 8:11

So how did Sara get the nickname Fool Loose?
After the time trial she mentioned she had a mechanical issue. Upon further investigation it was revealed that her cleats were loose. In fact her right shoe had only one screw holding the cleat and her left foot had two of three screws to hold her cleat in place. After moving one screw from the left shoe to the right (the shoe she uses to clip in and clip out) and then tightening all screws as tight as possible she was good to go, Aka Foot Loose.

The Roses completed 35 miles at just over 15 mph. All were pleased with their results.

This next write-up is an account from Lee Duncan as a ride leader of the THORNS for the days ride.
Classroom attendance
Jim Cobb – The Rabbit
Green Flash – aka Killer Bee – aka – Desert Flower – aka – Abominal Snowman
Sonic B-M
Joe Pittman - Mr Immortal
Jeff Giordano – Claim Jumper
Chris Stark
Not slow Todd

The Cookie Tossing Gran Fondo

The Thorns were ready to go on Saturday, and eager to participate in the Race of Truth AKA 2.2 Mile Prologue. It was a beautiful day and a great one for a ride. Things got kicked off with a right turn on High House and through the Cary Housing Projects. After turning a corner at the roundabout, not "slow Todd" was waiting and ready to pounce on the unsuspecting Thorns. With Todd in attendance, the ride continued through familiar territory and around the back country of Western Cary. The group used the opportunity to get warmed up and humiliate each other with select banter and one liners collected the week before on the internet and from e-mail forwards. As we arrived at the secret location, GOG rolled out of the Smit mobile and explained his latest creation. He knew he had some seriously navigational challenged individuals in the group who likely would have set off into the field if he hadn't intervened. "Go up there and turn right and then another right"--- "even Sonic Boom could do it he said"...a claim I knew was borderline.

The riders huddled up, signed the paper for order, verified their organ donor status and clicked their stop watch for the torture test. Off they went one by one with remarkably good organization. The course was off the beaten path with minimal traffic, 2 semi technical turns, a low grade incline and a nice hill at the finish. A great test of fitness. After everyone had finished and revisited their morning breakfast, the Thorns organized and set off on the second part of the ride. This included Holland Chapel to Big Woods..but first a quick stop at the Lystra gas station. After a sufficient break the riders continued on to Big Woods where we rescued an orphan cyclist who had been separated from his cycling group. We asked if he would like to join us and he agreed..but for a price..the Thorns insisted that he would pull us for 3 to 4 miles of the 7 mile route (and he did).

At the connection with 64, the riders were sufficiently beat but took a left and limped up to the adjoining gas station. This is when the Green Flash noticed that the helium from his tires was leaking and so he pulled out his trusty sack of tools and prepared for open tire surgery. A Thorn never misses an opportunity to capitalize on the misfortune of others, so the group made a number of jokes and criticisms regarding the mechanical capability of a fixed gear bike and so on. The Green Flash was having none of it and unleashed a couple clever uses of banter that he no doubt had been refining for such an opportunity.

With all the mechanical issues resolved, the group was off again down Ferrington road and headed for the gateway to 751 and home. All the riders took a turn at the front and made good time with not Slow Todd calling upon his time trial skills to challenge Team Thorn. As the group headed towards the Weldon Ridge / Cary Park area Chris Stark staged a very convincing attack that put great pressure on the Thorns. Not to be outdone.. Mr Immoral (correction Immortal) joined in and continued the pace as the group crossed through the decline of Cary park and up the other side. It was an all out sprint at the end with Immortal man victorious-- a well timed sprint to the finish. Turning on to Carpenter Fire Station the group kept the pace high to see if anyone would scream for mercy, but no one did. Turning back towards the Thorns and Roses clubhouse and on the territory known as Steve's Graveyard, the great Jim Cobb paid homage to the spirit of the road and put the hammer down. demonstrating solid conditioning and fitness. And to twist the knife a little more, Claim Jumper did a fantastic bait and switch at the conclusion of the ride on High House with a false start that motivated the group to accelerate to a rate of speed not sustainable, and the well timed trap allowed Mr Jumper to calmly ride by his victims after they gassed out.

A great ride for everyone with mileage in the 40 to 45 mile range at a 19 mph avg.

Too compare last time this route was done as a time trial search for OCT 10th 2010.

Threat of Rain did not keep the riders away

2011-04-23T17:26:00.001-05:00

Those in attendance included:
Theresa Smit - Mother Theresa
Todd McBride - B3
Kim Barker
David Bridenbaugh - Mr Bridenbaugh
Josh Carter - Moving Violation
Tim Divinney - The Love Train, The Love Boat (new nickname due to his swimming skills)
Matt Fowler
Deb Hollis - Two Saddles
Joe Pittman - Mr Immortal
Sharon Prochazka
Dave Pynaker
Don Shupe
Robert Speer
Matt Fowler
Mike Bracco

GOG provided the Thorns and Stems options of completeing 45 - 52 miles.
He shared this route with Mr. Bridenbaug, Todd McBride B3, Immortal Man, Moving Violation.
Mr. Bridenbaug announced that the Thorns will likely to the longer distance but keep it slower than normal. They figured more like 18 mph vs the 19+ usually accomplished by the Thorns. GOG then announced to the group that those not wanting to go the full distance or that pace need to regroup at the Wilson Gas Station and follow one of the others who know the alternate route as described by GOG.

GOG then announced that Mother Theresa would be leading a group on a 30-35 mile route at a more reasonable 15 mph pace. With this information the group immediatly formed into two with at least a half dozen lining up with Mother Theresa.

GOG did not ride. He is resting and preparing for his back surgery scheduled to Thursday April 28th.

A beautiful day for a bike ride.

2011-04-17T19:59:00.001-05:00

On more than one occasion during the days ride someone in the group commented on how fabulous the day was.
The group grew in size as the clock closed in on 9 am the starting time.
A call came in to Mother Theresa asking what route the days ride would take. The Augustine’s wanted to make sure they could leave from their home on bike and intercept the riders as they headed out of town. GOG conveyed the planned route with enough detail to help the Augustine’s head out with confidence they would intercept the pack at or around Green Hope High School.

Those who had assembled in the parking lot included:
Kevin Smit – GOG
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa
Jim Cobb – The Rabbit
Elise Cobb – Popsicle, The BEAST (still riding with broken collar bone).
Todd McBride – B3 (Best Bikin Buddy)
Laura Spell – fresh off of several Triathlon events and gearing up for many more – a TRI-FINATIC, She really enjoys doing it 3 ways (swim, bike, run). Hmmmm a nick name is buried in there somewhere. (3 way).
Sharon Prochazka
Paul Schmidt – no relative to Kevin and Theresa SMIT
Perry Hurt – welcome back to the group
Mary Carol Ruppen – MC first time riding with the group. Longest ride to date was 13 miles in Umstead.
Lee Duncan – Sonic Boom
Shawn Richardson – Killer Bee on his black and Gold Fixie

Jumping in later on the route:
Doug Augustine – Rumble Strip
Sheila Augustine – keep an eye on her, and report anything she does or says on a ride, she is ripe for a nickname.

GOG welcomed the new faces to the group and introduced them while asking the pack to make sure they are tested not so much for their biking skills but to see how well they participate in the banter.

GOG then informed the Thorns of the days planned route. “we have some new faces today so we will keep it relaxed and the mileage will be at or below 30 miles. You Thorns will likely not want to be forced to ride at that pace or distance. So I will share with you what we are doing and you can adjust as needed”. “The route will go out the back way on Crabtree Crossing, left onto Morrisville Parkway, stay straight all the way until Capn’s Grave Yard, turn towards High House and pass by Green Hope High. Then turn right on High House and take it all the way to White Oak. Turn Right on White Oak to its end. Turn left onto Luter Shop, Be prepared to turn early off that onto West Ferrell. Take it to Mount Pisgah. Take a left onto Mount Pisgah to 751. Turn right on 751 to the gas station at New Hope Church. Make the right there and take it to the Tobacco Trail. Take the Tobacco trail to Okelly. Make the right on Okelly and then the right on Yates Store into the Del Webb subdivision. Next turn is the left onto Carpenter Fire Station and the run on into home.” As GOG provided this information both Killer Bee and Sonic Boom nodded their heads indicating a complete understanding of the days route.

Without any further delay the group was led out of the parking lot and onto a short section of sidewalk that kept the group off of busy Cay Parkway. There was a great deal of small branches, pine cones, and insulation (likely from Lowes in Sanford) strewn all over the pavement. The cyclists did a great job of informing others so all had the time to dodge these additional obstacles; the standard potholes were still there as well.

The Thorns made their first move on Morrisville Parkway only to be briefly held back at the light on Davis Drive. The three Thorns included The Rabbit, Sonic Boom, and Killer Bee. The group was not seen again until back in the parking lot where they described how they altered the route to provide 5 extra miles.

The Stems and Rose did a great job of supporting each other by slowing or waiting on the other side of an intersection for those in the rear who were caught by the light.
The group took a short pause at the turn from Morrisville Parkway onto Capn’s Graveyard. This allowed all to catch up from the multiple stop light traps, and to take on some fluid, as well as shed some layers of clothing as the sun was warming up the morning. Once all tasks were completed the group was guided thru the intersection after waiting for several vehicles to pass. Just as they began the run down Capns Crawl two cyclists approached from the opposite direction. It was the Augustine’s who had called earlier to make sure they could intersect the roué and join in as the group headed out of town.

Mother Theresa had worked her way to the front of the pace line and took solid command of the pace. She pulled the group along at a steady speed of 18 mph. GOG was seen drifting towards the rear of the pace line and then pushing himself forward towards the front. He was herding the pack as an AKC Registered Australian Sheppard. The pack all arrived at High House together thanks to Mother Theresa’s talented pull from the front. She then rolled onto High House and again established her command and control position. GOG once again swung out wide in an effort to gain full view of all in tow. Mother Theresa continued her power pull the entire length of High House and Green Level charging head first into the wind at 18 and 21 mph. GOG, B3, and Rumble Strip all rolled past her at as Green Level begins its climb to White Oak. “How about we spell you for a while” GOG announced. “Yea I could use some help, I wont be able to keep this up on the hill” she chocked out between deep breaths.

It was there that the group began to splinter with GOG, B3 and Rumble Strip all attacking the hill. GOG crested the climb at 21 mph just as his heart was coming apart in his chest. The three circled at the top waiting for the shattered group to arrive one at a time. Sharon was one of the first followed closely by Paul, Perry, Popsicle – The Beast, and the others. With out rest The Beast headed towards Luther Shop and slowly others followed, however with a lot less enthusiasm. MC was heard saying under her breath “Maybe this was not such a good idea today”. She was just about at the longest distance she had ever ridden and had already ridden faster than ever before. As the group rolled towards the Tobacco Trail crossing Perry informed GOG that he had to turn back do to work commitments. They said their goodbyes and the group was now down one rider.

The pack never fully reassembled until the end of White Oak were Rumble Strip, B3, and The Beast were all hold up to let GOG and the rest join them. MC rolled up to the group and when asked by GOG “how are you doing MC” she replied with a smile. That was good enough and the group was directed to make the left turn onto Luter Shop. The county line sprint was only yards away and to B3’s amazement no one challenged for the win. “Not what the Stems and Roses are all about” chimed GOG. The group did a nice job of staying together as they enjoyed additional chit chat wile getting some great exercise on a beautiful day. The right onto West Ferrell went very smoothly. All arrived next at the turn onto Mount Pisgah were GOG rolled on thru into the left turn. No Rest just GO. This repeated its self as the group rolled up to the right turn at 751. There was no traffic so once again GOG led the way by sliding thru the right turn announcing “CLEAR” as he did so. 751 was fast and again the climb was a place to practice a short attack. Hills do help make for a stronger rider if they are leveraged as places to challenge ones ability. 3 ways to survive a hill. 1. Let it slowly weigh you down as you lose momentum and rpms. 2. match the pressure with pressure – work to keep speed consistent while also shifting at the correct moments to keep rpms from dropping significantly. 3. Increase speed as the hill unfolds – apply extra pressure to not just match that presented by the hill but give it slightly more with each revolution of the peddles. The trick is to apply slight amounts and compound those slowly. Or if you are a Thorn you attack and never look back.

At the crest of the hill GOG made the right hand turn and pointed to the parking lot of the gas station so that THE BEAST would not clip GOGs wheel as he maneuvered into a stop at the gas station. The Beast was on GOGs wheel the entire climb as if to announce “is that all you got old man, I can match it one handed – she is riding with a broken collar bone. What a BEAST.

“We can take a bio break for anyone who needs one” GOG informed the group once all were in the parking lot. No one showed any interest in a Bio Break but they did continue their chit chat and consumption of fluids. “Ok Todd you know were the Tobacco Trail is, take us there” commanded GOG.

With that the pack rolled out of the parking lot and onto the smooth surface of New Hope Church road. Within a few yards Jae – The Matriarch rolled past GOG and B3 and asked permission to turn it loose. “GO JAE GO” GOG encouraged. Jae LOVES that section of road and lights it up each time she rides it.

This section of road needs to be nicknamed “Jae’s RUN”.

As the group rolled up to the Tobacco trail GOG asked a couple of folks exiting it on bikes as to what the condition of the trail was. “CLEAR, No Debris” was their response. That was good news and the Stems and Roses slipped between the gate posts and onto the paved downhill grade of the Tobacco Trail.

Lots of “Good Mornings” were exchanged as the group shared the trail with runners, walkers, and other cyclists. At one point GOG rolled up to a jogger and began to banter with him. “DUDE you are cooking along at 8.4 – now 8.7”, “hang with me man, You can do it” The runner laughed and waved as GOG slowly crept past. MC was next to GOG as he interacted with the runner. “There is a Law that prevents the harassment of Runners” she informed GOG. “Crap, I bet there will be uniformed officers waiting at my door when I get home” he chimed back with a big grin. Some boys never grow up.

“OK next turn onto OKelley we will be greeted with heavy traffic and a short climb” GOG shouted to the pack. “And no Shoulder” added Jae – The Matriarch. Each rider navigated the exit of the Tobacco trail while also looking for cars, and dodging other cyclists entering the area. The climb up Okelley split the pack again forcing a short pause at the turn onto Yates Store to ensure all made it safe into the next turn. MC was holding up great. She had already gone over 10 miles further than her longest ride to date of 13 miles. The group held up at Carpenter Fire Station just to make sure GOG did not plan a cruel trick like sending them onto UPCHUCK before heading for home. To everyone’s relief GOG made the turn onto Carpenter Fire Station and in dong so made it clear they would not be doing UpChuck and in fact they were all pointed in the shortest flattest route back to the start.

The group strung out on Carpenter Fire Station in an effort to minimize the impact to the heavy traffic, and to push the last few miles as the ride was winding down.

All said goodbye to the Augustine’s near the point they had joined the ride. Then everyone finished by riding into Cary on Morrisville Parkway with the last turns putting them onto Crabtree Crossing and finally a short section of Cary parkway into the parking lot at Brueggers.

A 30 mile ride at just over 15 mph average. All enjoyed the route, the day and all congratulated MC for more than doubling her longest distance on a bike.

WELL DONE.

Fun was had by all on Cycle North Carolina Spring Ride in Oriental NC

2011-04-09T19:50:00.000-05:00

The unvailing of the Thorns N Roses Flag - Thanks to Jim and Elise Cobb

Kevin Smit - GOG

Theresa Smit - Mother Theresa

Jim Cobb - The Rabbit

Elise Cobb - Popcicle

The Longest ride they have ever done 70+ miles

Their 22 nd Wedding Anniversary

She is riding with a broken Collar Bone

An additional nickname for Elise

The BEAST.

Ginny and Rod Davis all Smiles evey day

First time Rod used Butt Butter, and he is SMILING. Hmm a nickname is born.

Meet Butt Butter aka Rod Davis

Ron Clanton - Just Ron

Tracy Clanton - Rose Peddler

Stop drafting SO CLOSE

Some of the Thorns N Roses are ready to RIDE

April 9th prize winner

2011-04-08T13:00:00.000-05:00

Awarded to the MOST.

Let it Blow Let it Blow Let it Blow

2011-04-03T09:26:00.002-05:00

There are two write-ups for Saturdays ride on April 2nd.
The first one is offered by Kevn Smit (GOG) the second one is offered from the perspective of a Thorn and was writen by Lee Duncan (Sonic Boom).
I am also including a picture of the groups new Team Flag thanks to Jim and Elise Cobb for getting this for the group.

Enjoy the write-ups

Expected wind gusts upwards of 40 mph were predicted.

Many of the Thorns N Roses were riding the MisFits organized Spring Fling ride.
The turnout for the Saturday ride was still fairly strong.

Those in attendance included:
Doug Augustine – Rumble Strip
David Bridenbaugh – Mr. Bridenbaugh
Kaleo Bullard
Angie Chiatello
Jim Cobb – The Rabbit
Tom Davis
Lee Duncan – Sonic Boom
Paul Estes
Jeff Giordano – Claim Jumper
Sandra Henderson – first time with the group (rode very strong)
Todd McBride – B3
Joe Pittman – immortal Man
Sharon Prochazka
Shawn Richardson – Killer Bee, on his black and gold Fixie
Kevin Smit – GOG
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa
Chris Stark

With the group ready to go GOG sought out Mr. Bridenbaugh, Sonic Boom, Immortal Man, and Killer Bee to ask if any of them had studied the map sent out with Thursday’s email. Mr. Bridenbaugh looked the most confident of the group regarding his understanding of the days planned route. GOG can always count on MR. Bridebaugh knowing the roads and turns no matter where the route goes.

GOG explained to the pack that there was at least one person who we wanted to make sure accomplished her goal of riding further than 35 miles. GOG told her he and others would definitely work with her to see that she made the planned 46 miles. He went on to explain to the pack that all would be riding the same route and that he would sweep making sure they could pick up any who may fall off the back of the Thorns.

The route was designed to stay away from the MSFits organized ride. GOG had also decided to explore a new way out of Cary. He did not know what to expect from traffic and was pleasantly surprised at the way the drivers shared the road on Cary parkway and Laura Duncan. The Thorns established themselves early with the split happening in the first mile of the ride.

Those remaining with GOG as they watched the Thorns attack the wind head on with Killer Bee leading the swarm included:
Sondra, B3, Sharon, Kaleo, Mother Theresa, Rumble Strip, Angie.

This group worked together the rest of the way making sure all knew what turns to make, as well as keeping an eye on each other in case of physical or mechanical challenges. IAs they reached the outer skirts of Apex they spied Tom Davis who was waiting to join the Stems. He had done a strong leg workout the day before and just did not feel he could hold onto the Thorns with our doing damage. As the group lef the shelter of the town and it tree lined streets it turned out to be a challenge to stay in a tight draft formation due to the strong buffeting from the wind. It seemed to hit the riders from all sides, first pushing the riders backwards, then delivering a body blow from either the left or right sides. Even with the strong wind the group of riders forming the Stems did a good job of pushing the pace at 18 mph. Some would fall off the pace only to catch up again at the next turn, or stop sign. Rumble Strip seemed to be the strongest of the group as he would push to the front of the line in an attempt to pull the others along in his slip stream. Kaleo fell off the pace as the group left Apex and headed towards the turn on Robertson road. The pack held up momentarily to let him catch-up. He did not come and did not come. GOG then suggested Mother Theresa take the group on towards the next turn at Humie Olive and GOG would circle back to check on Kaleo. It did not take GOG long to find Kaleo and B3 headed his way. B3 had deliberatly dropped back to keep and eye on Kaleo (no one rides alone). GOG learned that the wind was so strong that it knocked a contact out of one of Kaleo's eyes and he stoped to remove the other one and was now flying blind. GOG and B3 ride on ether side of Kaleo to make sure he did not slip of the edge of the road or cross the centerline. The two were acting as seeing eye dogs for Kaleo. The three caught up with Mother Theresa and the others at the next turn onto Humie Olive. From there they again did a fair job of working together against the wind and hills. The next seperation occured at the turn onto Sharon Harris. GOG pulled out his phone to check the status of Mother Theresa and those with her. He was concerned that she and the others would not recognize the turn at Sharon Harris. Just as he heard Mother Theresas phone ring a voice next to him said "I am not going to answer that". It was Mother Theresa with her group in tow. As the group reached to point of no return a split in the group occurred. At that point those who were trailing new how to return home and Mother Theresa made it known she new all the rest of the turns from that point on. She suggested those that want to push on do so and she would sweep the group. GOG, Rumble Strip, B3, and Sharon did not hesitate to act on that suggestion. Those 4 turned into the wind and prepared to attack the rolling hills of Old US1 as they drove towards Bosil and the next turn. GOG found himself setting the pace on that stretch of road only to relinquish the rains once the group turned onto Beaver Creek and the run down to Lake Jordan. GOG tried to hold onto the rear wheel of Rumble Strip but found he did not have the spark to do so. At that same time GOG felt his Jersey pocket vibrating. He reached in to his pocket slowed the bike to a stop, and pulled out the phone to answer the call. It was mother Theresa who was informing him that they had just left from the spot where the Stems made a deliberate split in the group. They had stayed at that spot to help Angie who was suffering from Hypothermia. Mother Theresa was worried that Angie might even go into shock. Both Mother Theresa and Kaleo had put their jackets on her as she lay on the pavement to get out of the wind and to absorb any heat radiating from the concrete. Theresa said to continue and that she would keep GOG informed as they planned to make it to Bonsil and reassess the situation. By now B3 and Sandra had stopped up the road to allow Kevin to finish his phone call. B3 did glid back to GOG to make sure all was OK. Once the call was over GOG, B3, and Sondra took chase on Rumble Strip who was now gliding along wondering what happened to the draft line that had tried to form behind him. The 4 did not get back together until near lake Jordan where they were each met with the strongest buffeting wind gusts of the ride. As they closed in on Wilson Ville GOG’s Pocket started to vibrate once again. He sat up on the bike reached into the pocket and answered the phone while working to maintain his speed. The others in the group responded by giving GOG plenty of space to navigate one handed in the gusts. It was Mother Theresa informing GOG that someone needed to continue on with little to no delay at Wilsonville, and to then come back to Wilsonville to pick up Angie. Mother Theresa and her group were doing everything they could to get Angie to Wilsonville but no further for her. GOG acknowledged the mission and assured her Angie would be picked up.

Once at Wilsonville GOG said his goodby’s knowing both B3 and Rumble Strip knew how to lead themselves back to the start. GOG timed it perfectly as he spied a rider in s full Livestrong kit poised to make the light across 64. GOG jumped ahead of the rider only to have that person slide past. GOG slipped in tight behind the rider and went into total focus on the gap between GOGs front tire and the rear tire of the Livestrong Kit rider. GOG was sucked along up hills at 19+ mph and reached sustained speeds of 25 mph on the flatters sections of the remaining miles. The two were close enough to have been considered a tandem team. They separated at the intersection of Green Level and Morrisville parkway. GOG turned left there headed towards Carpenter Fire Station and the Livestrong Kit rider turned right towards Green Level and Green Hope High school road.

GOG’s average mph Jumped a full 1 ½ mph in those 10 miles. The average immediately began to degrade has he found himself alone and struggling the last 7 miles.

GOG continued to fight to make time so Angie would not have to wait long at Wilsonville to be picked up. Finally GOG made it to the last turn and stop light that would put him onto High house and the run into the finish. As he sat there to his surprise B3, Rumble Strip, Tom and Sondra all flew past him as they were coming into Cary on High House. The three had taken a slightly different path into town.

GOG had stayed on the planed route. He was so fixated on that plan that he did not consider any of the shorter options into town from Wilsonville. He had actually completed the entire planned route and ended up with 3 more miles than those who used their heads to plan a more effective return to the start.

GOG jumped into his van and drove to Wilsonville to pick up Angie and Kaleo who stayed to keep her company. Angie had finally stopped shivering and was still in layers of jackets that had been donated to her by the other riders. It was good to see everyone return safe and sound.

This next write up is from SONIC BOOM.

Jim Cobb – The Rabbit

Shawn Richardson – Dessert Flower, Green Flash

Joe Pittman – Immortal Man

Lee Duncan - Sonic B-M

Chris Stark - TBD

David Bridenbaugh – Mr. Bridenbaugh

Jeff X (I forgot your last name again)

BAND OF BROTHERS

The crew took off out of the parking lot and headed in the wrong way again out of Brueggers. This was the typical Hurricane escape route that we had run during the past arctic season. Several people had been recovering from hard rides the week before and were feeling very challenged. The sore legs were further punished by the early onset hills in the main township of Cary and then out towards the great land of Apex. It was a bright crisp morning and speeds were reasonable but consistent to begin.

There were a few undecided Thorns with us at the beginning.. understandably they wanted to see if they could tolerate our childish antics. After a few stop lights, the Thorns entered the Magic Kingdom of Apex. From the entrance there were a some attacks, most of them very respectful and polite. Feeling unsettled by all the hugging, Sonic B-M made an effort to show everyone what a jerk looked like (a move enabled by the long and restful energy incubation achieved while hiding in the back).

Almost as if it were planned.. Jim Cobb (Rabbit), Joe Pittman (Immortal Man), and Chris Stark (under nickname observation) took turns pulling the group; with Jeff X maintaining a solid pace line and moderating the group's efforts as our crew chief. When everyone got tired, we could always count on the Green Flash to carry an unreasonable amount of responsibility as our strongest rider of the day. The most aggressive rider jersey certainly had to go to David Bridenbaugh, whom made a number of very very powerful escapes, all while comfortably seated (which is the international signal for -- you are all weak, kneel before me). It was a shocking display of raw unbridled-baugh power that seemed to continue on without limit.

As the group continued on.. many work efforts were traded with Jeff X making a strong pull as we approached the conclusion of the day's ride Overall a very strong, consistent effort from EVERYONE.... The Band of Brothers did 45 +/- miles at a 19.5 MPH pace.

SUNDAY April 3rd
Winds had died down, temp was pleasant.

Those in attendance as specified by the sign in sheet were;
Jae Brainard – Matriarch
Jim Cobb – The Rabbit
Todd McBride – B3
Ann Munn
Heather Pat – Two Timer
Shawn Richardson – Dessert Flower – on his white Fixie
Kevin Smit – GOG
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa

This small band of Cyclists formed a pack to ride together expecting to complete between 30 and 35 miles at a relaxed pace of 15 mph not including the stops to regroup. The group did a fine job of supporting each other by keeping all in sight. If there was a significant gap those in the lead would pause at the next intersection/announced turn to allow for a re-formation. The route was one that left Cary thru the standard Preston Neighborhood path and onto Lewis Stevens. They then headed into the RTP area via McCrimmon Parkway, Church St. , Keystone Park Drive, Davis Drive, and a left onto Hopson.

The pack separated slightly on Church St. as some were caught at the light while others pushed the pace on that stretch of road, only to then do several loops in the roundabout on Keystone Park Dr to let the group gather once again. All made the turn off of Davis onto Hobson together and were still working to stay together as they then turned left off of Hobson on to Lewis Stevens. This was where the pack encountered its fist short climb of the days ride. It was also here that Two Timer demonstrated her climbing abilities having spent most of her Biking miles on her Mountain bike riding the hills of Umstead park. She walked away from the Thorns who did not respond as they typically do when under attack from someone in the pack. Two Timer did not let this be her only attempt to School the Thorns on how to glide up a hill. Each time the Thorns were slow to react to her subtle maneuvers. The riders were separated once again as some were caught at the long light were Kit Creek crosses Highway 55. The group did not reassemble until the next major turn onto Okelley. Those arriving at Okelley had a long delay as they waited on others to reform. It was learned that several of the folks who were trailing stopped to remove a layer of clothing as the Temperature was climbing well into the low 60’s.

Once reformed the group discussed the route options from that point to the finish. Matriarch suggested turning one street early off of Okelley to help eliminate any traffic they might encounter as they make their way to the Tobacco Trail. GOG warned that the hill on that short cut would challenge Dessert Flower who was on a fixie. GOG had ridden the route once before suggested by Matriarch and had nearly been thrown off his Fixie as the RPMs were uncontrollable due to the steepness of the downhill.

Dessert Flower was willing to give it a try but was over ruled by GOG. So the pack formed a single file formation and prepared for the short ride down Okelley with its narrow / non-shoulder and high traffic volume. The traffic did present a small problem with navigating the left turn onto the Tobacco Trail, but all made the turn smoothly and safely. The Tobacco Trail was strewn with tree limbs and small branches that had been torn from their respective trees as a result of the previous days strong Winds.

The group all exited the Tobacco Trail onto New Hope Church road. It was there that GOG contemplated out loud as to the next several potential road s to include in the days ride. He considered Mount Pisgha and its hills. That would then force another decision to go all the way to 751 and its heavy traffic and additional hills, or turn early onto West Ferrell to then find themselves turning onto Lewter Shop followed by a run into Cary Glenn and on towards home. Or do they skip hills altogether and just run the full length of New Hope Church to then turn around and go all the way back to Yates Store and then into Cary Glenn. A vote from the Matriarch settled the debate within GOGs head. Stay on New Hope Church and then head back towards Yates Store and Cary Glenn towards Home. GOG then turned his attention to thinking about how to utilize the smooth road of New Hope Church as a future potential “Thorns N Roses unofficial self timed open course TIME TRIAL” opportunity. New Hope Church can be split into two sections. The Section from Yates Store to Mount Pisgah has two to three short hills. The section from Mount Pisgah to 751 is flat and smooth. The challenge would be how to navigate a u-turn at any point while in a time trial style ride. A u-turn at mount Pisgah from 751 provides a wide long range view of potential traffic that might interfere, but the u-turn would need to be done within the narrow confines of New Hope Church road and would also provide a 3 mile out and back distance.

A u-turn on New Hope Church at Yates Store would provide for a wider U-Turn spot, however the corner is not as wide open for viewing traffic patterns that might impact the turn. Performing a U-Turn at Yates Store starting at 751 would also introduce a distance of 6 miles with about 2 miles of hills, and a need to pay attention to cross traffic of those coming off of the Tobacco trail. Hmmm what to do.

The pack all rested briefly at the gas station at 751 and new Hope before heading back towards the turn at Yates Store. Mother Theresa led the pack as she pulled the group at 18 mph up until the last hill on New Hope were she was slowly passed by The Rabbit, Dessert Flower, Two Timer, B3, Matriarch and eventually GOG. Great pull by Mother Theresa.

The route scattered the back additionally as they each headed onto Nicoles Roller Coaster only to be spit out onto Green Level and the lights at Carpenter Fire Station. GOG held up at that light to ensure Mother Theresa and Matriarch also made it to those lights before he set out towards the final miles into Cary. The group all came together one final time as those in the lead waited for GOG and the others to join them at the end of Carpenter Fire Station. From there all knew their way home down Morisville parkway and Crabtree Crossing.

The group completed 33 miles at a reasonable 15.7 mph average.

What good is a map anyway.

2011-03-26T16:19:00.001-05:00

Large turn out even with the threat of rain.

A couple of new faces joined the group for the days ride.

GOG was unable to capture all the names of those in attendance and apologies for not formally recognizing their participation in this write-up. Next week look for a sign in sheet to help with this effort.

The day’s route had been designed to allow for The Thorns, Stems, and Roses to all head out onto the same route with lots of options to turn early vs completing the entire 46 mile course. After GOG explained his intentions for the ride the Roses announced they had a different idea and would ride a 20 mile route. GOG shared that information with the group and recommended anyone looking to ride that distance and pace should jump in with that groups ride leader.

The rest of the pack was treated to an alternate start out of Cary that eventually looped back onto familiar streets leading to the roundabout in Preston. Once at the big Chicken the Thorns were caught just in time as they began to faint to the right when the planned route was actually to make a left on Lewis Stevens.

The automobile traffic was the heaviest seen to date as an endless stream of cars steamed past the cyclists as they waited to make their turn. Finally a car stopped early and waved the riders thru the intersection. The riders all waived their hands to thank the driver for that kind maneuver.

It was immediately clear that the Thorns did not want to be held up for any reason as they quickly dropped one of their riders who’s chain had slipped of the front chain ring. GOG circled back to make sure the rider was not abandoned on the side of the road.

GOG was now gapped with no other riders in sight. He navigated the next several turns and still had no riders in sight. It was not until the climb up Jenks Carpenter to Holt that he could see the pack already itching to go as they paused at that intersections stop sign. The pack did not wait for all to arrive as first one then another and then the pack of Thorns bolted west on Holt towards Highway 55 and points beyond. GOG knew at that point he would likely never see the Thorns and Stems (those shredded from their midst) for the rest of the ride. The run down Jenks was expected to be fast and GOG knew the Thorns would take full advantage of that. GOG was joined by several others who elected not to attack with the Thorns. This group formed Stems (subprime). The Stems (Prime) would form much later in the ride as they would turn early due to time constraints vs the Thorns who completed the planned 46 mile route even with the threat of rain moving in.

As it turned out the Thorns altered the route at the end of Wimberly by turning left on Green Level rather than the right that had been planned. Instead of heading to White Oak the Thorns headed to Luther, and then Horton Pond, and then towards the gas station at Lystra. The stems (subprime) who were riding with GOG followed the original plan and turned right at the end of Wimberly followed by the left onto White Oak, then right onto Ferrel Road West (the site of the groups two mile Time Trial location) which took them to Mount Pisgah. From there they turned left towards 751. Once at 751 they turned left again towards Martha’s Chapel. It was on the run down Martha’s Chapel to lake Jordan that the stems (subprime) encountered the Stems (Prime). GOG’s group was headed towards the lake as the Stems (prime) were headed up Martha’s away from Lake Jordan. Several of the riders in the Thorns pack needed to head back early and elected to turn back at Martha’s Chapel while the rest of the Thorns rode onto the Gas Station at Lystra. At this point the Thorns N Roses had split into at least 4 groups all riding their own routes. To support that statement the Thorns actually altered their route a second time by not turning as designed onto OKelley. They stayed on 751 all the way to Mount Pisgah where they made a left turn to enjoy the hills it provides. At the end of that road they turned right onto New Hope Church and then elected to do Up Chuck in reverse. That dumped them finally onto Carpenter Fire Station and the roads back into Cary.

The days ride would have been fun to follow from the air. An overhead view would have provided a great deal of entertainment as the groups all did their own thing. The map was just a suggestion of how to leave town, how to head towards a handful of key landmarks, and then a hint on when to turn for home. Each group interpreted the map as they saw fit and made it work for their needs.

Hmmmm just as GOG usually alters the days ride route on the fly as he assesses the group’s needs and abilities.

Well Done Thorns N Roses.

Well Done.

Thrown Thorn

2011-02-06T13:22:00.001-05:00

Sunday Feb 6th.

Warm Sunshine again greeted the riders.

Another large turnout with some additional new faces were in attendance.

Those assembling for the days adventure include:

Kevin Smit – GOG
Theresa Smit – mother Theresa
Todd McBride – B3 (Best Bikin Buddy)
Ann Munn – Bump and Rub
Scott Clark – back for a second time and ready to mix it up with the Thorns.
Marianne Mahn - #1 in the Bush
Jim Cobb – The Rabbit
Elise Cobb – Popsicle
Lee Duncan – Sonic Boom
Lance Minor – new to the group – just moved from Philadelphia two days earlier. The Love Train told him about the group.
Chris Elliott
Tim Devinney – The Love Train
Heather Patt – Two Timer
Tanya Eney
Paul Estes – Tall Paul
Wendy Just – Just Wendy
Don Shupe
Shawn Richardson – Dessert Flower, Abominable Snowman on his all white Fixie.
Joe Pittman – Immortal Man

GOG worked feverishly to meet and greet the folks, introduce himself to those who were new to the ride, ask for wavers to be signed, and collect money for the Thorns N Roses jersey’s. He was only able to do a cursory job of any of those tasks and thanks to Mother Theresa who helped in the effort the group was not delayed from the start of the ride by much.

GOG provided guidance on the days route and distance choices everyone had. He told the group to expect choices of doing 25 – 30 miles, 30 -35 miles, and for those looking for extra hills and miles he had a 40 -45 mile section that included Big Woods. His route options met with lots of approving gestures from those in attendance.

GOG was riding his classic 1979 steel frame bike. His carbon fiber bike was in the shop and they were suggesting the frame would need to be replaced. They are hoping for him that it would be covered under warrantee.

GOG rolled out of the parking lot with 18 others close behind. The group kept a solid pace as they all swung into the Preston neighborhood. Lots of visiting and continued introductions as the new riders were being welcomed into the group. GOG learned that Lance had just arrived from Philadelphia, and unfortunately had left his bike helmet behind. He was wearing two cycling caps instead to help both with the cold and if he would fall. Those hats would help with the cold but they provide about as much protection for his head as a soft shelled crab has during certain seasons. Just as the pack started their first short climb Mother Theresa was seen rolling to a stop as she had just thrown the chain during her shifting maneuvers.

The light at Davis allowed all to regroup and even allowed Suzanne McBee to roll up to the group. GOG and Suzan each said hello as they had only a moment to chat before the Green Light released the pack. Suzanne did not ride with the group. She has been doing a great deal of solo rides as she continues her journey as a Triathlete.

All riders made is safely thru the light and into and back out of the roundabout. The pack did not have to wait at the Big Chicken to assemble as all riders were ready to make the left hand turn towards High House and the open roads leading towards Lake Jordan.

The Thorns were already demonstrating their nervous energy as they would jump at every possible opening to get out in front. The pack showed greater control and worked as a collective to create safe passage for all thru the lights, traffic patterns, and turns that unfolded as they eventually found themselves on High House and highway 55. The red light at highway 55 would be the demarcation point where the Thorns could establish their strong uninterrupted push out of town. It took no time at all for GOG to find himself in no man’s land. He along with Popsicle, B3, Tall Paul, Two Timer, and The Love Train were all riding the gap between the Thorns and the Roses. GOG watched the Popsicle dance thru the spaces generated as riders took turns moving up the pace line. She was very alert to each maneuver and deftly danced from rear wheel to rear wheel working to ensure she maintained her position in the pace line. It was fun to watcher her perform. (it was learned later that she crashed and broke her collar bone).

The stems group remained together as High House became Green Level and its hills beyond White Oak. The pack was instructed earlier to make the turn onto Luther for anyone doing more than the 25 mile route. GOG told the group he would hold up there to make sure anyone not wanting to do more than that would be guided on how to get back from there. As GOG and the other Stems climbed the longest of the climbs a shout went up from the group warning others of a water bottle in the road. GOG quickly looked to see if Popsicle had lost hers like she had on last weekend’s ride. Upon inspection all Popsicles bottles were secure. None of the Stems stopped on the uphill to gather the rouge bottle.

The Stems joined the Thorns at the corner of Green Level and Luther as the Thorns were following the original directive from GOG on places to pause to make sure all were accounted for. It was there that Two Timer performed a perfect Arty Johnson lean followed by the slow motion fall to the right. “It is official”’ shouted GOG. “You now have conducted the same fall we all have in our biking experience, You are now one of us” he went on with a smile. This was her third time ever on a road bike and up until now would ride with one foot not clipped in just to prevent such and event.

Slowly those trailing rolled up to the group one by one. Mother Theresa asked the group if anyone had lost a water bottle. No one acknowledged, and then after some delay. “Oh Yea I guess I lost mine” shouted Sonic Boom”. “Get a water bottle gage for that thing you ride” GOG shouted out in an attempt to provide banter. Sonic Boom carries his water bottle in his jersey pocket. It must have jumped out when he attacked on the hills. Mother Theresa was kind enough to stop her uphill momentum to recover it and find its rightful owner. Another example of how she earned her nickname Mother Theresa.

Once all were assembled GOG pointed the way for those looking to do 20 -25 miles. The Love Train had a time constraint and was willing to lead others back from that point. Love Train chimed in, “Wait if we do Luther and then turn on 751 to the Strawberry patch and then head back we should get maybe 30 miles” . “Yea that sounds about right” GOG replied. “I would like to do that, anyone wanting to turn back then can follow me” Love Train announced. No one was ready to turn this early in the ride and all were looking for the challenge that Luther had to offer.

“OK then you lazy Thorns let’s stop sittin around and ride” GOG shouted as he rolled past the group.

Gradually the Thorns reestablished themselves as did the Stems, and then the Roses. GOG was now looking to make sure those who had indicated the need to go shorter distance were matched up with the Love Train once the group was ready to make the turn onto 751. This proved more challenging then he realized as The Love Train was up with the Thorns and the other two were now behind GOG.

To GOG’s relief the Love Train was coasting on ahead in anticipation of letting the other two join him on the route home. “OK Tanya That is The Love Train up ahead in yellow” GOG shouted to make sure there was no miscommunications, and in hopes that the Love Train heard that others were on their way. Bump and Rub decided at that moment to join Tanya and follow the lead of The Love Train. She was anxious to be serenaded by the crooner as he so often does while riding with the ladies in the group.

The Thorns and Stems both then headed out to conquer the hills of Horton Pond as it reaches towards Farrrington and the final route decision point for the rider in the group. The Thorns were in full attack mode and spent no time dropping the stems. The stems rode well together. GOG was pleased to see Mother Theresa matching him as he pushed to sustain the speed and momentum up each of the hills.

It was learned later that Lance and Sonic Boom had a great shoot out the entire length of Horton Pond.

The group looking to do extra the hills and miles of Big Woods included:

Sonic Boom
The Rabbit
Popsicle
Dessert Flower
Scott Clark
Just Wendy

Those headed back via Holland Chapel included:

GOG
Mother Theresa
Lance Minor
Don shupe
Chris Elliot
Immortal Man
Tall Paul
Two Timer
#1 in the Bush
B3

“Have a Safe Ride” was shouted out as the two groups headed in their separate ways.

Some debate took place on if the Stems should extend their miles by riding on past Holland Chapel and doing Martha’s Chapel instead. “Na, I got some extra miles and hills I can throw in at the end” replied GOG.

With that those in the lead signaled the turn onto Holland Chapel with all others in tow.

The ride down Holland Chapel (aka Waffle Run) was uneventful and filled with more conversation as the hills were nonexistent on that road. Several of the cyclists used that road as an opportunity to recover. They did so my slowing their pace and falling off the pack. This was rectified by GOG as he asked those in the lead to wait momentarily at the Strawberry patch. As they waited they were passed by CSH. GOG immediately recognized Josh Carter (Moving Violation) who was tucked nice and neat in the double draft line. “Josh You Traitor, You ASSHOLE” GOG shouted out as the pace line went by. Josh later met with GOG at Brueggers and told him that the CSH group was asking why Josh was a traitor and an Asshole. He he he.

Once all the Stems were back together the group rolled on down Luter Shop towards the County Line Sprint and then onto Cary Glenn. GOG rolled up to Lance to inform him of the sprint that would likely take place soon and how to recognize the finish line. As he was explaining this B3 make his play for the line. This spurred Immortal man to respond as did Lance, and Two Timer. B3 had the lead up until the last moment when Immortal man clipped the win from B3. And again Two Timer was heard Giggling about the antics as she did on last weekends ride.

The pace slowed as the group made the turn into Cary Glenn and the hills known as Nicole’s Roller Coaster. Lance and GOG discussed the merits of momentum and how much would be required to glide over the top of the first climb that lay ahead. “I will follow your Lead” Lance announced. What Lance has not learned is that GOG’s Mass is his only asset on this section of road. Lance is tall and lean and mean but his body mass pales in comparison to GOG. However Lance has a much better BMI than GOG who’s BMI index suggests that muscle is not a large component of GOGs Mass. The two crested the first hill with little effort; it was the next two hills that Lance demonstrated what a LOW BMI index can produce as he scampered up the next hills leaving GOG to struggle with Gravity and the lack of momentum generated by the long flat sections of road between those final climbs.

The pack was held up at the light on Carpenter Fire Station and Green Level to allow Mother Theresa, #1 in the Bush, and B3 to regroup. “I bet you wondered where we were” shouted #1 as she rolled up to the group. “Na, I had you in my mirror” GOG assured her. The group was directed to make the right turn and all fell into single file now that they found themselves on a busy road as it heads back into Cary.

At one point the cyclists were held up behind a long line of traffic being shuffled and directed into and out of a church parking lot by a police officer. Chris Elliot was struggling to pull his foot free of the cleat. “Catch Me, Catch Me” he cried as he attempted a track stand in the middle of the bike group. Several riders grabbed at him as he slowly crawled past wobbling as he threw the handlebars from side to side in an attempt to keep the bike upright. Then in slow motion he leaned away from those holding him, and just then popped out of the peddles to brace his fall. “Looks like Group LOVE” Lance offered as he watched the event unfold.

The police office watched this unfold and realized she needed to get the group of cyclists on their way before they hurt one another. She signaled the group to slide on past the line of cars and make their way to the light at highway 55.

All thanked the officer as she held up traffic for them.

The group was now in cool down mode as the final miles laid ahead. The route on into the finish had the group split as some riders were planning a direct path back to their homes and not to the parking lot behind Brueggers. Those splitting off included
Tall Paul
Immortal Man
Lance – who was headed to CSH to purchase a helmet. He no longer wanting to be vulnerable like a soft shelled crab.

The others followed GOG as he lead them the back way to Brueggers via Crabtree Crossing Parkway.

In the end the Stems did only 32 miles. A miss calculation by GOG who was expecting to see closer to35 miles. The pace was a solid 16.8 mph (without stops to regroup).

It was learned later that Elise Cobb (Popsicle) clipped the rear wheel of Jim as she was drafting him on Big Woods. She went down hard and broke her color bone. Fortunately there appears to be no need for surgery. We wish her a speedy recovery. The Thorns clearly play way too hard.

This write-up is provided by Lee Duncan (Sonic Boom) A Thorns perspective.

Thorns Du Jour
Jim Cobb – The Rabbit
Elise Cobb – Popsicle
Just Wendy
Lance Minor
Craig Scott
Green Flash – aka Killer Bee – aka – Desert Flower – aka – Abominal Snowman
Sonic B-M

Give Them Something to Talk About

After a well condensed prologue with the broad group, the light at the High House transition to Green Level West was like a Christmas Tree Light at a Drag Racing event. The engines revved, the wheels spun in anticipation ....and they were off. This was the international dateline for the Thorns to riot in civil disobedience. The Green Flash wanted to spill first blood as he coaxed the new visitors along the snarling precipice and into the gravity canyon marking the highly confusing road change from Green Level West to Green Level Road West. The guested Thorns were up to the challenge and gripped and ripped it through the Western Cary countryside. Despite the high speed, there was good pace line work and cooperation along the way. The new Thorn challengers were keepers for sure. Sonic B-M got into the action at one point utilizing excessive hip action consistent with a Bee's Waggle dance, which chucked his water bottle a country mile from its unsecured nesting spot. The Thorns were un-phased by this violent H2O distraction and journeyed on. After a painful ascent, the small crew rested at the Luther Rd turnoff. Lance Minor (new guy) was extremely feisty in the hill section (in a good way) despite his "I haven't been on a bike in months" response. That whole situation seemed a little too familiar --as Capt Carbon typically acts in this fashion (beating everyone up and then stating that he had been resting on a CraftMatic adjustable bed for the last 2 months feasting on Cheese Nips). This was too much to bear so I shouted at Lance Minor...did Capt'n Carbon send you to torture us??? Sir Lance never answered as a honorable night would. After a few minutes of resting, the group had consolidated with the Stems and Roses once again. GOG used the opportunity disclose the rules for our "choose your own adventure" for the day. If you want x miles go this way..if you want xx miles go that way..and so on. A few seconds later Mother Theresa arrived carrying Sonic B-M's water bottle she found on the road as a humanitarian mission, an obvious ploy for sainthood.

With the new instructions, the group moved out with conviction..And on they went..through Luther..through the 751 quick turn, and through Horton's Pond. The group consolidated one last time ..and GOG gave a suggestion that the Thorns should provide Sonic B-M "Something To Talk About". Little did anyone know, that the adventure would provide plentiful antics for our weekly blog.

Before pulling out on Farrington road, I had told the Green Flash about Craig's X sleeper cell activity the week before. That he cruised cooperatively along until everyone was toast, and then he worked his magic by turning the screws. But this week, Craig X declared he pulled a hammie and was not up for horse play..oh the dreaded hammie. So Craig was willing to play nice for a while. The Green Flash wasn't taking any chances and was ready to dominate in the Power section of the road course. Like Fabian Cancellara, the Green Flash has fantastic power capacity, especially on the long haul flat sections...so the group worked to shuffle behind and hang on as we cruised to 64. This continued on until a car decided to teach the Peleton a lesson and swerved by..neary brushing the group upon its passing. What happened next was a little more exciting than anticipated as the Red Light led to an Oh Crap Moment by the driver of the vehicle. Let me say this--words were exchanged of an enthusiastic nature. But everyone had survived well enough and the crazy driver sped off too, so the group continued on down 64. At this point the miles starting weighing on the Thorns, and Big Woods was going to be a major test.

Jim and Elise Cobb were working together to overcome the conditions and Just Wendy was putting forth an incredible performance of endurance and tenacity..especially since she had done a long run the day before. In coordinated fashion the group made their way up Big Woods with the Cobb Clan taking a more sensible and consistent approach where we'd meet up with them at the turn. We all thought to ourselves, thank goodness we only have to do Big Woods once... As everyone gathered at the Jack Bennett turn ...we waited for the Cobb crew or any others that were continuing on. Then an ambulance approached us and passed by at a high rate of speed..where were they going so fast? Moments later a car pulled up and confirmed that there was an accident by a couple people on bikes....it had to be the Cobbs. So the condensed Thorn colony jetted back up Big Woods until arriving at "The Preserve"....Jim Cobb was actively helping and confirmed that Elise had hit his back wheel and had gone down--likely suffering a shoulder or collarbone injury.

Out of great concern we rapid fired questions at him ..and he explained everything and said the had made plans to have the bikes picked up and return to Apex for further Medical care for Elise. After the Thorns confirmed that nothing more could be done to help, they circled back and did Big Woods for one last time. Then out on Lystra, Marthas Chapel and the Berry Patch to Weldon Ridge Blvd. At the turn, the group realized that someone had stolen Just Wendy, which confirmed that Cary Park is in fact the land based Bermuda Triangle. After waiting - Craig suggested that he would go back along Berry Patch and would meet the group next time.

With just 2 riders left from the original Thorn group, the 2 cruised back to the Thorns and Roses club house. Both were very thankful for their caring and thoughtful riding buddies.

Total miles was 52.8

Ave speed was 17 +/-

End of January - Best Weather of the Winter Season

2011-01-30T19:07:00.001-05:00

Saturday Jan 29th

Written by Lee Duncan – Sonic Boom

Scott Clark (New to the group)
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie
Kevin Smit – GOG
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa
Todd McBride – Best Biking Buddy B3
Elise Cobb – Popsycle
Jim Cobb – Earned his nickname this day (The Rabbit) He ran point all the way to the turn around point on this out and back ride.
Steve Cope -Captain Carbon
Joe Pittman – Immortal Man
Jessica Holland – Twin Peaks
Marrianne Mann - #1 in the Bush
Lee Duncan - Sonic Boom (AKA Sonic B-M)
Chris Stark

Arriving late
Robert Renke
Paul Eppers – Tall Paul

Feel the Burn

It was a beautiful Saturday morning, the sun was out and it was only slightly cold, as compared to the frigid temps the week before. There was a very good turnout-- representing all the colors of the Thorns and Roses diverse constituents. Not only was there a great turnout, but there were a few long time friends participating with the ride, so it made things all that much more fun. To begin, everyone assembled in the front to receive the mission instructions for the day. GOG provided our orders and explained that "today would be an out and back Apex ride".. which seemed like a nice clear, clean plan.

But....just before the activity of the day commenced, Capt Carbon gave an example of classic banter and suggested that we would never get started if we continued to socialize!!. GOG launched a powerful scud back that hinted at the tone for the day. Welcome, to another edition of Thunderdome!

In reality the out and back concept was very logical. Most everyone had not been riding that much.. so the out and back concept gave people the opportunity to turn back early and then rejoin the group if desired. But what was intended to be a sensible route that inspired hugging and world peace, got maligned into a very painful Mad Max sequel because of the attacks, escapes and relentless hills....I 'm referring to none other than "The Road Warrior". Right from the beginning there was a butt load of hills....and as we all know a butt has generous hill capacity!? On the first mountain, Sonic B-M cajoled Josh "Moving Violation Carter" into an impromptu hill climb. As expected Josh dominated the 0-60 component until having his fill.. in a dramatic display of paranormal performance Capt destroyed the hill and left Sonic B-M sickened and looking for the middle school saw dust dispersant. Luckily a medic was readily available by the name of Todd Mcbride. Todd expressed kindness and consideration for the sick and injured, a fatal character flaw among the Thorns and Roses... This kindness was only matched by "the man without the yellow hat" ..more aptly a man in black (casual rider with the Thorns and Roses) whom was enjoying the ride and the great weather.

Moving on, the group maintained a great pace out through Apex. It was interesting to note that Mother Theresa (MT) and GOG were both sporting semi warm weather gear. MT wore shorts with no leg warmers and GOG adorned abbreviated cycling trousers. I wanted to ask them if their mother knew they had come outside without their jacket on, but was not given the chance. They seemed warm enough though -- and I wondered what it was like to be young.

All the cyclists were working together temporally as we entered the gates of Apex until Chris Stark jetted out in front for some epic Escapes. Jim and Elise Cobb were riding along cooperatively until Jim distracted Elise so that she would hit a pot hole..causing her water bottle to fall out and dance along the side of the rode. A little while later Elise confided in another rider over her disgust of Jim's dirty trick, and ironically hit another pothole-- ejecting her water bottle once again into flight.

Immortal Man (Joe Pittman) was riding well after a healthy holiday break. On several occasions he took the front in his trademark move, "the quad destroyer". This move entailed sitting in his seat on steep hills, until every last striation of Type 2 fiber was damaged beyond repair. This technique is extremely effective at coaxing others to destroy themselves; as if climbing the steep hill where as comfortable and relaxing as playing a game of Tile Rummy with your grandparents. A fine technique for asserting torturous pain on your friends. Not long after I could hear the thunderous roar of Rob Robertson – Top Rookie. He exalted: "Remember where you are... This is Thunderdome... Death is listening, and will take the first man who screams." This was a very cryptic and eerie message.... UNTIL it was learned that he had been eating too many of the candied cycling treats in his pocket, and was just suffering from an elevated level of electrolytes. With Top Rookie stabilized, the group continued on... in fact, Top Rookie rode very very strong as a result of the candied treats that day.

As the peloton commenced their return back to the parking lot starting line (tired from a long morning of shenanigans)-- Scott X (new guy) with deep profile wheels started unleashing his fury on the weakened crew. When confronted directly about the beating, he stated that his bike computer was not working and he could not manage his speed efficiently. Nice try... Because of this bad behavior, many requested that Scott X join the group again on a future ride.

Back at the parking lot.. Jessica, and Marrianne Mann "#1 in the Bush" were asked about the days ride. Both reported that they enjoyed it, but that it was also one of the more difficult to memory. Marrianne further explained that she was a little embarrassed by her nickname "#1 in the bush"..at which time I suggested that "#2 in the bush" might be more comforting. She declined.

The ride completed at approx, 38 miles, 3 hrs and ave speed of 17 mph +/-

Sunday Jan 30th.

Write up provided by GOG

Warm sunny calm weather embraced the riders as they assembled in the parking lot.

Everyone was so eager to start that the pack was able to leave at 10:01 am. The most prompt start ever for the Thorns N Roses.

Those in attendance included:
Kevin Smit – GOG
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie
Todd McBride – Best Biking buddy B3
Jim Cobb – The Rabbit
Elise Cobb – Popsicle
Ann Munn – Bump and Rub
Marrian Mahn - #1 in the Bush
Mary Ann Feegan
Andy Hartsfield – possible name in the works (under the radar). When asked how he has been able to ride with the group for several years without a nickname. He responded I stay Under the Radar.
David Bridenbaugh – Mr. Bridenbaugh
Jeff Giordano – Claim Jumper
Jae Brainard – Matriarch
Jessica Holland – Twin Peaks
Heather Patt – earned her nickname (Two Timer) - earned her name on this days ride.

Late arrivals included
Tim Divinney – the Love Train
Shawn Richardson – Not sure what bike he rode so don’t know what nickname to use, other than PISSED that he missed the start, and we went out of the parking lot differently than normally.

Prior to the start GOG hinted that he had at least two distances in mind for the days route. Those that wanted extra would likely see around 40 miles and others would be targeting for the mid to low 30 mile range. Mother Theresa had already informed GOG that she was planning to ride with The Matriarch, and Mary Ann Faggen.

The pack rolled out of the parking lot with GOG at the lead. He had wanted to start the days route by actually heading towards Crabtree Crossing rather than the normal route out onto High House.

Just as he realized his mistake Top Rookie shouted out “Glad he didn’t decide to go the other way”.

As if on cue GOG turned the pack right at the end of the driveway and pointed all towards the sidewalk on Cary parkway as it leads to Crabtree Crossing Parkway. In unison the cyclist each slowed and corrected their path to follow GOG. One by one they all traversed the sidewalk and then dumped out onto the divided road that wanders through the upscale sections of Preston.

As the pack rolled down the long slow declines of Crabtree Crossing they were passed by a car that had a Bicycle dangling off the back end of the vehicle. The car slowed as it reached the front of the pack. With its window down a voice from within shouted “Where do I park?”. GOG immediately recognized the voice and confirmed his recognition by turning his head to confirm that it was indeed The Love Train. He had arrived just as the pack was pulling out and decided to chase them down in the car to figure out were on the route he could intersect the ride on his bike. “Turn right at the Chicken, and park at the Library’ GOG shouted out to him. GOG knew this was enough information for the Love Train since he had used that location on other days to intersect the Thorns N Roses as they head out of town.

With that the car sped on ahead.

The pack made the turn safely from Crabtree Crossing onto Morrisville Parkway and then again onto Sarazen Meadow Way. At that corner were two cyclists circling waiting for the pack to catch up. GOG shouted out to them “Sorry we are Not CSH”. He recognized one of the riders as Dain McBee. Dain is a strong rider that would have been very disappointed in riding with the Thorns N Roses. The two groups ride totally different types of rides. CSH takes no prisoners, runs a tight pace line, does not stop to regroup, goes hard all the way, and does not socialize at the level the Thorns N Roses do. Those two riders immediately pulled out of the pack and went back to their vigil of looking for CSH.

By this point Mother Theresa, The Matriarch, and Mary Ann were already setting the tone and pace for their days ride. The Thorns and Stems were still together and elected to pause momentarily to see that the Roses had exited Cary and were headed towards the turn at The Big Chicken.

The pack then headed towards RTP on Lewis Stevens where they were joined by The Love Train who had successfully transitioned from car to bike.

The pace was comfortable floating along between 15 and 19 mp with all but the three Roses in tow. Jim Cobb – The Rabbit was showing great restraint as he demonstrated his respect for the spirit of the days ride. He somehow knew that the first half of the ride was intended to have all ride together, socialize, and provide safety in numbers. He also sensed that the Thorns would be turned loose later to punish each other in their form of Play.

On this days ride GOG learned that Bump and Rub will not be able to ride on the weekends once her Club Soccer Season begins. The two then talked about other groups that ride during the week. GOG described his experiences riding on Wednesday evenings with OMV out of Macgregor Village and from that same location on Thursdays with Slow Spokes. Two very different groups each with a different philosophy of what the rides are and how to conduct them. All groups have their merits and it is great that there seems to be something for all types of riders and for all types of riding purposes.

At one point in the ride GOG rolled up to Claim Jumper and asked “That was you that yelled at me yesterday from your car wasn’t it?”. “Yep” he chuckled. “My wife and I were coming back from running errands when I recognized you, had to yell at you to “Get the Lead Out” Claim Jumper said with great pride in his voice. He was clearly proud to have participated in adding to Saturday’s Banter without having even been on the ride.

The group did get strung out as they each worked to cross the busy Highway 55 followed by the climb up Kits Creek to Green Level Church. Those that scampered on ahead missed the next turn at Stonewater Glenn and found themselves waiting for the others at Okelley. GOG held up at Stonewater to direct the others onto the road rather than compete with the traffic on Okelley. He informed those he was redirecting to follow it thru the roundabout and then to Okelley. This would eliminate some of the time spent in that traffic. GOG then dashed on up to where the others were waiting on Okelley to let them know he had sent the others on a parallel path that would converge up ahead.

As if magic happened both groups got to the same intersection simultaneously.

It was here that GOG provided more detail of how the route would unfold and were the Thorns can make their get away. Just as the pack mounted their bikes and pushed off to make way a shout from the back of the Pack was heard ‘FLAT, we got a FLAT”. All riders slowed checked the traffic flow and delicately redirected their bikes into a U turn.

It was Heathers bike that had a flat front tire. Heather’s sprit was not damped at all. She was immediately swarmed by several others who jumped into the task of removing the wheel from the bike and were already ripping the tire off the rim. The Rabbit was at the center of this repair effort. Heather looked on in amazement at the willingness of others to take command of the situation. The Rabbit handed the Tire to one of the other riders (claim jumper or Mr. Bridenbaugh) There was such a frenzy GOG could not take time to asses who all was involved. GOG then added his two cents into the repair work and offered to blow up the tube. He first blew into the tube as if he was blowing up a ballon. That jump starts the process and is supposed to make it easier to tuck the tube back into the space between the rim and the tire without creating a pinch point. Once the Tire was back on the rim GOG then asked if anyone had a hand pump. “Save the CO2 cartridge if we have a pump” , he offered again as if to suggest he is all knowing of these types of repairs. GOG was thrilled to learn that Best Biking Buddy had a classic Silca Frame Pump. Still the best transportable pump on the market. GOG grabbed the pump as if he was grabbing an old friend, and when to work inflating the tire to as close to spec as possible. A quick all knowing squeeze of the tire to judge PSI another few pumps and follow on squeeze to confirm the proper PSI had been reached. During this GOG was harassed by the crowed who praised his Blow Hard skills, and his aggressive pumping action. Several even took pictures with their phones to document the event.

Mr Bridenbaugh locked Two Timers front wheel back into its location and recommended she confirm for herself that it was ready to ride.

So how does Heather’s nickname apply. This was her second time ever on a road bike. This was her second time ever riding with the Thorns N Roses. She enjoyed having several of the guys jump to her aid and allowed each on to take their turn. A Two Timer.

Back on the road the pack was directed down Okelley towards the point where the Tobacco trail crosses its path. GOG led the way as he and the others snaked their way thru the narrow gate onto the paved section of the Tobacco trail. The pace was immediately slowed in response to the multipurpose usage of the trail. Out of respect for the runners, walkers, small children, and dogs on leashes the Thorns N Roses did their part to share the path for all to enjoy.

Within a mile or two the paved section came to a halt where the Tobacco trail crosses New Hope Church road. GOG held up the group there and began to describe what was planned next for the riders. “Those looking to complete 40 miles follow Mr. Bridenbaugh as he leads you to Mount Pisgah, then Martha’s Chapel, to Lake Jordan, and loop on back thru Cary Glenn and Nicole’s Roller coaster.”, “The rest of us do we want to do between 25 =- 28 miles, or more like 30 to 33 miles?” GOG went on to ask. “Who is riding with MR. Bridenbaugh please raise your hands”. With this Mr. Bridenbaugh rolled thru the gate and assembled his Thorns for their next push down New Hope Church road and on beyond to Lake Jordan. “Have a safe ride” GOG yelled out to them.

“OK, raise your hands if you want more like 30 miles vs a shorter 25”. Just as GOG was completing his plea for a vote all hands went up indicating more than 25 miles were being requested.

“Excellent, we will also head for Mount Pisgua, how ever we will turn off of that road earlier than the Thorns and loop on back along a flatter course, by using the bike trail in the Sears Farm neighborhood.”

The Stems all navigated thru the gate and followed the lead of GOG and Best Biking Buddy as they rolled up and over the undulating country side that would later give way to the flat ribbon of road known as Lueter Shop. At the point were the Wake County line sprint is GOG and The Love Train were riding comfortably in the lead with Best Biking Buddy and Two Timer close behind. The Love Train commented on that fact that they were about to win the sprint without having to change the pace. Then there came the sound of grinding gears. “Hay are you going to make a run for the line?” the Love Train asked Best Biking Buddy. “Na, it is all yours” was the reply from behind. Both GOG and the Love Train relaxed in their saddle knowing that no challenge would be mounted.

Then without warning B3 pulled wide to the left and bolted out of the seat as he shot past the two in the lead. “You BASTARD” was the cry from both the Love Train and GOG. Two Timer was heard giggling as she watched the children play.

B3 took the county line sprint as the others continued to roll on at a steady 18 mph.

The riders were all looking forward to the final miles on the bike path in Sears Farm, the pace would be slowed as they would once again work to share the multiuse path. And Yes GOG and others in the group did a Primordial Scream as the group traveled thru the tunnel under Highway 55.

The groups all returned to the start finish having had a great day of bikeing.

The Thorns did 41 miles

The Stems completed 32 miles at just under a 16 mph pace

The Roses completed 25 miles.

Only the most Hardy

2011-01-23T18:10:00.002-05:00

Saturday 1/22/2011 Bike Ride.

C-O-L-D
Those attending virtually

(They made a reservation at Briggs in anticipation of others joining them for Brunch.)
Ron Clanton - Just Ron
Tracy Clanton - Rose Peddler
Jae Brainard – Roses Matriarch who can ride with the Thorns
Mary Ann Faggan

Others showing up at Bruggers with little or no desire to ride in the cold.
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie went to Brunch
Todd McBride – Bonk Buddy, Best Biking Buddy – went to HOT Yoga
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa – went to Brunch
Kevin Smit – GOG went to Brunch
Josh Carter – Moving Violation – went to Brunch
Chris Stark – Almost rode but made the last call to head back to bed.

The FOOLS who braved the C-O-L-D and wind
Kiki – Twinkle Toes

Lee Duncan - Sonic Boom - Sputum-Maker

It was a cold morning. Not just cold, but breezy with a gray winter sky. It felt cold, it was cold and riding a bike felt wrong on a day like this. Some Thorns and Roses were pooled at the red carpet area of Bruegger's Bagels to watch oncoming traffic. I knew there would be limited participation when Top Rookie gave the international sign for Crazy upon my approach. A few contemplative riders stood in the parking lot evaluating meteorological data. Even with Sonic Boom's jumping and yelling antics to draw participation, the "parking lot 5" turned out to be a well balanced group of individuals and declined participation. One by one they fell away, relenting to the call of a pancake breakfast that awaited them.

So Sonic Boom started to suit up for a solo mission to carry the Thorns and Roses banner and show everyone that poor judgement is something to be celebrated. That was until one brave sole ventured out into the arena. This warrior of winter showed an unrelenting spirit to bike that day-- she went by the name Kiki or Twinkle Toes. With this new formed pack, the Donner Party climbed onto their steel horses (realistically aluminum/carbon/manganese/titanium) and set off to migrate West for aerobic opportunity. As earlier stated, it was really really cold, just wanted to reinforce that.

The two peddled through Cary, through the adjoining neighborhoods and out towards Cary Park and Upchuck. One universally known trait of Kiki is that she is always optimistic and has a very positive attitude-- and if there was something that Sonic Boom wanted to achieve that day..it was to break her spirit. Sputum Maker shouted to Twinkles "hey I have a fun hill route we can try, it will be just 25 miles or so in total, so not that far." It was important to psychologically mislead Twinkles if she was going to play along. She easily agreed with the plan and the 2 continued on their journey. First was Upchuck in all her mountain majesty; next was a long 7% grade in the back country, followed by a strategic turn to position the riders for an unrelenting series of hills. Sputum Maker knew he was doing well, because he could hear Kiki 100 yards away from the excessive lung aspiration that whistled up the mountain. Sputum knew he was getting close to observing one of the first glimpses of this perpetually positive person in an un-merry state..but it didn't happen.

Because of the continued resilience of Twinkles, Sputum had to think fast and dial in the remaining route to increase ammonia/lactate toxicity. And just like that, the two made a few quick turns and were headed for the grand finale... a 2 mile pull up a 5% grade hill. This had to do it!?! The 2 struggled up the contoured terrain and cursed the geological plates that moved the land masses in cruel formation..and just at the moment when there was almost a trace of downtrodden demeanor??-- instead a faint noise was heard that sounded like a giggle ..which developed into a laugh...ultimately culminating into a smile. Twinkles was not put down by the cold, the gray or the hills of Cary, but was actually UPLIFTED, amused, entertained--dare I say beguiled. At this moment, Sputum Maker drew the flag of defeat and the two limped back to the Thorns and Roses clubhouse feeling alive, exhilarated and ready for a pancake breakfast.

Total distance: 28 miles

Total Elevation: 2,100

Average Speed: Approx. 16 mph (the bike computers did not register Accurately do to the cold temps)

Sunday
1/23/2011
Temps at 10 am = 27 degrees.
no more needs to be said.

What is with all the Nick Names?

2011-01-17T10:55:00.002-05:00

Two Saddles rides a TWIXY.

Saturday Jan 15, 2011

A later start to allow the temps to rise into the mid 40’s.

Those in attendance include:

Kevin Smit – GOG (Glistening Older Gentleman) named by one of the barista’s in Caribou Coffee as she tried to explain to Steve Cope who was asking her if Kevin had been in there. “Oh you mean the Older looking Gentleman that was Glistening. (Sweating all over the counter top as he ordered a diet coke after the ride.) She was trying to be very nice and polite, however Steve knew exactly what to do with that information.
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa (for putting up with GOG for over 35 years)
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie (for his unbelievable improvement in his first year of biking)
Jim Cobb – more than ready for a nickname. Watch him closely and share with GOG any comments he makes, or dumb moves he makes. There is always a great nickname waiting to be discovered if you are paying attention.
Elise Cobb – Popsicle ( she has no body fat, and the winter cold has her vibrating on the bike as she shivers to try and warm up).
Todd McBride - Definitely ready for a nickname. Todd is another rider who in a very short time riding with the Thorns N Roses has not only lost a great deal of weight, he has also improved his riding skills and strength. Todd is also one of those riders in the group who will look after others making sure no one rides alone. The first ride he did with the group he performed a perfect GOG style BONK. A nickname like BONK BUDDY has been bantered about, however his willingness to ride with others suggests he is actually a BEST BIKING BUDDY. So he may have already earned two nicknames. B2 or B3. Or if you realy want to go there he could be Best Biking and Bonking Buddy B4.
Deb Hollis – Two Saddles ( rides horses and bikes both of which have saddles)
Joe Pittman – Immortal Man (named by Steve Cope who noticed a sicker on Joe’s Bike with the word IMMORTAL)
Kaleo Bullard - He has just started riding with the group keep a close eye on him and learn more about him, then share that information with GOG along with your suggested nicknames.
Chris Stark – Chris is one of the Thorns and rides also a great deal with OMV and other groups. Chris has not yet been caught by GOG doing or saying anything worthy of a nickname. Mostly because GOG can not keep up with Chris or the rest of the Thorns.
Paul Estes – another Thorn who rides periodically with the group and is always way too far out ahead of GOG to be caught doing or saying something note worthy enough for a nickname. Thorns pay attention and share your observations about the antics of those you ride with.
Steve Cope – one of the founding members of the Thorns N Roses. Steve has many nicknames all worthy of him and his antics. His nicknames in order of when they were awarded are as follows:

Chiwawa – Steve talks non stop and is always there by your side nipping at your heals. He is known for his attacks time and time again just to see if you will play his game. Oh and did we mention that he is small in stature much like a small dog.

Angry Chipmunk – name given to him by Christy Miller (Pink Triassholete – Pinky for short) who could not remember his nickname but described him to others as that little guy who is always attacking – you know like an Angry Chipmunk.

The Gnat – named for the fact that no one can get a reasonable draft off of him. He is so small that a gnat can’t even get a good draft off him.

Captain Carbon – Until recently Steve rode nothing but vintage steel frame bikes. He said that all those riding carbon fiber were destroying the environment with the large carbon foot print. Steve Now Owns a Carbon Fiber bike and was instantly named Captain Carbon on the day he showed up with the new bike.

Kiki – Twinkle Toes – Named for her distinct riding style. Her feet remain in the toes down position thru the entire peddle stroke. She dances and prances on the peddles like a ballerina.

Those are the riders who were in attendance this day and the story behind their nicknames. There are more riders out there who ride with the group and also have nicknames. Feel free to ask them if they have one and how they earned that name.

Some of them include:

PinkTriassholete
Love Train
Track Stand
Mother Goose
Sonic Boom
Green Flash – aka Killer Bee – aka – Desert Flower – aka – Abominal Snowman
Rumble strip
Patti Melt
Rose Peddler
Just RON
Rose Bud
Moving Violation
Down Hill Racer – now living in the DC area.
Claim Jumper
Slow Todd
Tri Todd
Blood Hound
Twin Peaks
Just Wendy
Mr. Bridenbaugh
Domestique
Social Butterfly aka Butterfly – now living in Germany
#1 in the Bush
The Antagonist
Power Stroker
Slow Jen Fizz
Sporadic Steve
DOC
Double your Miles Double Your Pleasure

So join in the fun of helping name those who do not yet have a nickname. Not all suggestions stick. The best ones contain a degree of innuendo.

As the group assembled for the days ride GOG welcomed back Capn Carbon who has not been on his bike riding with the group for a couple of months. GOG then shared his plans for the day’s route with all the riders. He did this knowing the Thorns would be anxious to attack early, leaving him and others unable to communicate the next set of turns and roads. As it turned out the two groups, Thorns and Stems, did come back together briefly twice during the ride.

The group rolled out of the parking lot as they always do by dumping out onto High House and then dodging into the Preston neighborhood to avoid traffic as they exit the Cary city limits. In Preston the group was joined by Kiki (Twinkle Toes) who rides towards the start, timing her appearance as the group glides through that neighborhood. All riders timed the light correctly as they sprang across Davis and into the round-a-bout that would spit them out at the BIG CHICKEN/Yellow Barn land mark. This is usually the first decision point on what direction to turn, however today all were equipped with the knowledge of the roads to be traveled and little time was spent figuring out left or right at that spot.

The split had already happened, however the light at High House and the slow transition onto Jenks Carpenter allowed the pack to reassemble. It was at the right turn from Jenks Carpenter onto Jenks Carpenter that Kaleo showed his bike handling skills. The entire group ahead of him had slowed with some riders coming to a stop. Kaleo clipped the rear tire of Immortal Man but was able to Muscle his bike back into control and did not crash. The amount of force he applied to the handlebars of his bike equaled that of a Cowboy Wrestling a steer to the ground by its Horns in a Rodeo event. Hmmmm Steer Wrestler – a nickname in the making? After the near crash the group swung thru the right turn and headed down the long hill with GOG warning everyone of the potential pot holes at the bottom of the hill. The Thorns all positioned themselves for the expected attack that would begin just after the bottom of the hill and peak at or near the top of the climb near the intersection of Jenks Carpenter and Holt. This day there was no clear attack as each rider rode their own pace towards the top of the hill. The pack did not have to wait anytime at all for all to make it to the stop sign. “My kids said that there were still patches of ice on Tingen were the hills begin, especially in the shaded valleys of the 4 hills” Top Rookie informed the group. Armed with this new information the Thorns made the left turn onto Holt and headed towards Apex. The Thorns were slowly pressing the pace as the cyclists reached to Northern edge of Apex. GOG was looking in his mirror to see if he could spot Mother Theresa and Kaleo (Steer Wrestler). No cyclists in site. GOG pulled off to the edge of the road just past the Highway 64 overpass. Todd McBride (Bonk Buddy, B2 or Best Biking Buddy, B3) held up as well to make sure all were OK. After several minuets Mother Theresa was spotted riding solo towards the riders. As she approached she waved to two rider on as if to suggest – Do Not Make Me Stop and explain.

GOG pulled up next to here and asked/confirmed that Kaleo had turned back. “Yes, he was having a Migraine and was not feeling well so he elected to turn back and head for home”. “Yea he probably had to clean his shorts after almost crashing” GOG said in jest.

Mother Theresa saw no humor is GOGs sick reply.

Mother Theresa, Todd McBride B2 B3 and GOG were now all alone as they slid through Apex and onto the section of road known to the group as The Tingen Salt Flats. There would be no fast pace line for those 3 as they fought the strong head winds and could not form a pace line. Tingen Salt Flats then gave way to the Hills of Woods Creek. These hills slap the cyclist once, twice, three, and then one final sucker punch as they work to keep momentum thru that section of road known to the group as The Four Horsemen of The Apocalypse Top Rookie refers to those hills as the 4 Whores. Either way they are there to Hurt not to help.

The group now found themselves at the intersection of Friendship. A good place to find oneself along with their cycling partners after surviving the 4 Horsemen of the Apocalypse. The three then turned right towards old highway one. The wind was now at their back and provided for an easy run to the next turn that put them briefly on old US 1. They then turned right at the second road. Now on Humie Olive and again with the wind mostly at their back the pace quickened. Just as the 3 were getting into a rhythm they spotted the Thorns all gathered ahead. “How nice of them to wait on us” thought GOG. Just as the 3 riders closed in on the Thorns the Thorns scattered, jumped on their bikes and blasted off down the road. In doing so they left one of their riders behind at the edge of the road. The 3 Stems rolled past the abandoned rider only to hear “I broke my cable”. It was Two Saddles that GOG recognized as the abandoned Thorn. ‘YOU OK” he shouted as his momentum carried him past her. He checked his mirror to see she was still not on her bike. Checking again to make sure no cars were coming GOG made a U-Turn and rolled back to her location. “My shift cable broke, and they made it so I could finish the ride” Two Saddles was telling GOG. “Front or Rear cable” he asked. “Rear” she replied. “What gear did they fix you in?” he asked. “Middle cog” she responded as she was now on the bike and slowly coming up to optimal rpms. Capn Carbon said I had more gears than he did since I can shift the front chain ring and he only has one gear on his FIXY. “I am riding a TWIXY” she announced with a big grin.

Thorns peform roadside repair turning Two Saddles road bike into a TWIXY.

The Stems now had a new member Two Saddles on a TWIXY. This group rode easy and all took note of the Fountain in the front yard of a home on that road. The fountain was draped in its own handy work of frozen water falls. Very pretty and a testimonial to how cold the days have been this winter. The 3rd coldest December on record. January is not warming up and not living up to its Normal Temperatures that would allow cyclists to ride in low 50’s on a regular basis.

The Thorns were already long out of site and the Stems made their way onto New Hill and then onto Toddy Goodwin and its rolling hills and head winds. Toddy Goodwin was also spotted with several small patches of ice in the shaded areas of the road. The Stems did not form a draft line as each rider struggled solo against the wind, hills, and wind Chill.

The Stems regrouped at the end of Toddy Goodwin and then made the right turn towards Wilsonville and Highway 64. The Thorns were spotted one last time as they were leaving the gas station at Wilsonville and the Stems were rolling in for a Bio Break. The Stems took little time to rest, blow noses, and empty bladders before heading across Highway 64 and onto Farrington. They formed a short tight pace line with the wind at their backs and the down hill leading to Lake Jordan. Here again the cyclists were presented with another of Natures more eye pleasing scenes as they crossed the bridge over the water. To their right they could see the thin smooth surface of ice that had formed on sections of the lake. It looked as if someone had tried to put a large piece of Plastic Wrap over the lake but ran out. It appeared as if Plastic Wrap was stretched from lands edge out towards mid water on all sides. Picture perfectly smooth sections formed by this protective layer reaching out further and further as if to some how try and calm the waters that were still exposed. Hundreds of white birds were perched on the ice at the barrier were smooth turns to rough water. They were enjoying the bright sun light, calmness of the ice, and close to the open water that supplied the next feeding opportunity.

The Stems continued on their quest towards Holland Chapel and the roads well traveled by many cyclists in the area. GOG Turned to B3 and asked if he wanted to go further to Martha’s Chapel to get in a couple extra miles. “You bet, more time in the saddle, is always good”. GOG then turned to Mother Theresa “You up for going to Martha’s Chapel?”. “NO”. GOG turned back to Best Biking Buddy and said “Holland Chapel it is”. The group swung right onto Holland Chapel pointed their front tires towards the Strawberry Patch, the County Line Sprint, Cary Glenn, Nicole’s Roller Coasters, and back thru the back side of Preston.

The Stems finished 44 miles at 15 mph pace.

The Thorns finished 42 miles at a much faster clip.

Two Saddles learned to ride a TWIXY.

Kaleo – Steer Wrestler – went home early to clean his shorts after avoiding a crash.

GOG and Theresa asked if anyone wanted to go out for lunch.

The group suggested that we plan on it for next weekend’s ride.

Sunday January 16th.

Another later start to help let the day warm. The start was clearly 10 degrees warmer and with little to no wind keeping the wind chill a non issue. A warmer start but with half the turn out from Saturday’s colder ride.

Those in attendance included.

Kevin Smit – GOG
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa
Todd McBride – Best Biking Buddy, Bonk Buddy – there to help if you Bonk since he knows how to Bonk as well as GOG does.
Ann Munn – GOG is remembering that she has a nickname but he has been failing to use it. Sorry BUMP AND RUB for failing to use your nickname. She received this on one of her first rides with the group. She did a fantastic Bump and Rub maneuver on Rose Bud putting her into the fence as they both fought for position thru the narrow entrance to the Tobacco Trail bike path. You can read about that in the Sunday July 18th 2010 write up Posted on July 21st 2010.
Josh Carter – Moving Violation – Speeding ticket on his way home from Florida.
Lee Duncan – Sonic Boom, Snotty Boom – Named for his fast explosive acceleration that has been described as a Sonic Boom as he passes you. Snotty Boom due to the volume of bodily fluids that flow from his nose on those colder riding days.

All riders were lined up ready to head out of the parking lot. They were only waiting for GOG to mount his bike signaling time was at hand to ride. His bike was leaning on the back of his van pointing in a direction opposite the normal path out of the parking lot. GOG was still putting away money collected for jerseys, recording who had paid for them, along with any of the signed release forms for the Thorns N Roses Riders. Then he was seen closing and locking the van doors. The Riders then all moved collectively forward towards Brueggers and the road that snakes out to High House. GOG grabbed his bike and swung his leg over the top tube, an effort for some one as old, over weight and out of shape as he currently is. As he completed this delicate maneuver the pack was off. GOG was still readying himself, making sure all systems were go. Then he slowly pressed on the left peddle as he used the small amount of momentum to then clip into his right peddle. He was still pointed away from Brueggers. He continued his direction away from the normal exit point. He was in fact headed out the direction that he normally finishes a ride from. He was headed towards Crabtree Crossing Parkway. He did not turn, he did not yell out to the others, instead he slowly continued in the reciprocal direction as he glanced in his mirror to see the outcome of his antics. As GOG left the edge of the parking Lot and turned onto the SIDEWALK he saw first one then another and then the entire group turn to take chase.

Mother Theresa was not amused and let GOG know He Needed to inform her of where they were going for the days ride. ‘Normal RTP but in reverse” he said as if that would be enough to satisfy her desire to know all the details of what hills there would be, how many miles, what the traffic pattern and volume would be. His short explanation was met with a silent stare. Sonic Boom raced up to GOG and informed him ‘I will probably jump out a head several times and I may have to turn early due to prior commitment”.

‘Yea you do not have any Thorns to play with today, Feel free to push ahead once and a while” GOG responded knowing how challenging it would be for Sonic Boom to ride at the slower pace expected for the days group.

The group was now gliding down Crabtree Crossing and closing in on were it intersects with Morrisville Carpenter when all of a sudden from a side street there came a double draft line of cyclists from the CSH Sunday Ride. The late start along with the reverse start direction for the Thorns N Roses put the two groups onto a collision course. The CSH riders slid in front of the Thorns N Roses and immediately jumped thru the intersection and onto Morrisville Parkway. The Thorns N Roses were caught by traffic and waited for a clearing before following CSH onto the road. Once onto Morrisville Parkway Sonic Boom darted forward to catch and then push to the front of CSH. A tactic he learned from Capn Carbon who can not allow any cyclists ahead without running them down and announce his arrival.

CSH next made the turn onto Creek Park Dr as it heads towards Hogans Valley Way. This was the route GOG had also charted out for the Thorns N Roses. Up ahead, Sonic Boom was seen slowing and unclipping as he looked all around for GOG to receive his next move commands. “Left Turn” GOG shouted in his effort to allow Sonic Boom to keep his momentum and to clip back in without having to put a fool down. The two cyclists were now together at the back of the CSH pack. GOG looked at Sonic Boom and said “These guys do a 30 mile fast run out to Lake Jordan and back, You might want to jump in with them, they will be done before we are, and we are not going to go as far, and definitely not as fast”. GOG could see in an instant that Lee’s look went from one of “Rats I was looking for a good fast ride today with the rest of my Thorn Buddies, and now I am stuck with these Stems/Rose that never ride hard, CRAP” – to a look of “Really CAN I REALLY – THANKS DAD”. “Yea you will have a lot more fun and get back in time for your early commitment” GOG said as he released the Thorn.

That was the last Sonic Boom was seen. Within a block Sonic Boom was at the front of the CSH pack.

The Stems and Roses rolled on thru Preston onto Ron’s Pull, Carpenter Fire Station, Yates Store towards Okelley. The group then rolled across Okelley thru the round about onto Stonewater Glenn, Green Level Church, Kit Creek Road, Louis Stevens, Hopson road. It was there that we learned that one of the many talents Biking Best Buddy has is that he was the Safety Officer for the Gun Club that is located at the corner of Lewis Stevens and Hopson. Not only is Best Biking Buddy an Engineer for Verizon, he is also a Scuba Instructor, and was an EMT at one point. We are sure there is a lot more he has to share about his many talents, so next time you ride with him see if you can get him to share more. Moving Violation was riding comfortably with GOG and B3. He was comfortable doing a relaxed pace. Moving Violation is planning to get back into Racing and was sharing his most resent training effort. He had hired a personal trainer and within 20 minutes the trainer had Moving Violation PUKING in the waste basket during the workout. The last time GOG every Puked during a work out was in 1968 during swim team practice.

The pack wormed their way slowly back to brueggers by traveling a short way on Davis turning into a small industrial complex and exiting out onto Keystone Park, then Church St, turning then onto Mc Crimmon Parkway, crossing Davis, to Koopers Rd that then melts into Lewis Stevens eventually putting the group back at the BIG Chicken land mark and the roads thru Preston to the finish.

They completed 27 miles. The MPH were un recorded because the did not want to push themselves to the point of Puking.

Mother Theresa and Bump and Rub both rolled into the end having ridden side by side the entire route.

Let it Snow Let it Snow Let it Snow

2011-01-08T14:58:00.001-05:00

Two write-ups, one from Theresa Smit - Mother Theresa who writes from the perspective of the Stems/Roses. The second write up is from Lee Duncan - Sonic Boom and is from the perspective of the Thorns.

Enjoy.....................

Those in attendance

Jen Serino - Slow Jen fizz
Don Zelna – Track Stand (birthday boy on the days ride)
Alise Cobb - popsicle
Deb Hollis - 2 saddles
Jeff Hoffert
Erica Mantcuso
Lee Duncan (Snotty Boomister) Theresa’s new name for you. I view you as still and always Sonic Boom
Paul Franklin
Kim Barker
Marianne Mahn - #1 in the bush
Shawn Rischardson - green flash... All Though he did ride his white FIXY which is associated with the nickname Desert Flower. He was sporting some brand new white tires as well. Theresa thought he looked more like the Abdominal Snowman with the white bike and his beard showing through all the layers of clothing.
Kiki Rodue – Twinkle Toes
Theresa Smit - Mother Theresa

write-up as presented by Mother Theresa

With a later start Brueggers was wall to wall and the group had to fight for chairs and table-space. There was a short gathering with the early birds who wondered “Where was the GOG?” Mother Theresa (MT) informed everyone that he was resting his back as it has been bugging him for well over a year and not getting any better! He will not see a doc in fear they will cut him open and fuse his neck rendering him unable to turn his head while biking. MT, ready to wring his neck anyway for not seeing a doc, assigned the group to each send an email to GOG this week with their recommendation on a doc, chiropractor, medicine man, physiatrist or other healing plan in hopes to convince him by numbers to get some medical advise!

MT told Sonic Boom (aka Snotty Boomister) and Slow Jen Fizz the 41 mile route that GOG had formulated in celebration of Don Zelna’s(Track Stand) B-day. With MT leading from the rear all 13 riders were off for a nice but chilling ride. Temp was around 35ish and the wind was starting to pick a bit, but the skies looked clear and the sunshine would quickly warm us up…. At least that was the plan.

As we turned onto Ron’s Pull our smiles were frozen to our faces but the rest of the body was just warming up. The Thorns were careful to stop at each corner to validate with MT the next directions to turn as she worked not to stray too far behind. However, Shawn (aka Green Flash, Killer Bee, Tarantula, Desert Flower) showed up with new rims/tires for his white fixie and anyone on a fixie goes fast but him on his new wheels, there was just no holding back. MT and a few others were soon lagging behind as we approached the right turn onto Yates Store (Del Webb development) to where the ‘old folks live’ as Snotty put it. There was a very brief regrouping before a left on to Old Kelly where the traffic picked up but seemed to be friendly today. At 751 the group paused for all to catch up and let MT review the remainder of the route. As the group turned right on 751, MT noticed the road crews had already been out to brine the roads in prep for the upcoming snow threat for Monday. At this point we were the furthest out on our route then … OMG what is that coming down, is that snow, it was not suppose to snow, not today. A few flakes, then it got more intense, we continued for just a bit… the Thorns were out of site. The snow was starting to stick and the sky looked like this was not going to pass very soon. Kim was close to home and the warmth of her house was calling her, so Paul lead the group back to get her home and then the rest of us planned to head back the shortest route back to the start. As we headed north the snow got lighter, but then we had to go back to 751 where conditions became blizzard like. MT had to wipe her sunglasses to get the sludge off so she could see. She was worried that Shawn with is new white rims would not be seen by drivers in whiteout conditions and hence came up with yet a new name for him… the Abominable Snowman.

Hands and feet were soaked and lacking feeling as we turned into a gas station at New Hope Church Rd. for a short warm up stop. All the sudden the snow stopped, clouds parted, and the sun began to emanate much needed warmth. Now this was more like it! The rag tag group with new energy turned towards the last few miles back to the start with a much more relaxed pace and attitude. The snow that had accumulated on our jackets and helmets started to drip like the Campbell’s soup commercial or a withering snowman. It felt nice for a few miles as the sun gave us some much earned warmth. MT could not recall in over 35 years of organized rides ever riding in snow let alone blizzard like conditions, this would defiantly be a ride to remember.

As we entered Preston the clouds returned and the temps dropped once again, “hope we get back before the snow starts flying again” commented MT. Just as we hit the parking lot GOG greeted the group to get the recap of the adventures. Within minutes the Thorns arrived recounting their version of the epic all seasons ride. Stems/Roses did about 36 and Thorns achieved the targeted 41 miles (happy b-day Track Stand). No averages as who cares we rode in freekin’ snow!

The days ride write-up from Lee Duncan - Sonic Boom. The perspective from a Thorn.

Thorns account of Saturday's ride on 1/8/2011:

The Thorns were bundled up, but very excited and ready to go for Saturday's ride. The weather had been extremely erratic, wet and cold over the prior weeks. Most importantly, people were ready to get out and escape the presence of family / relatives from Holiday break. It didn't matter that there was a predicted snow storm within the last 24 hours or that the wind would be howling at sustained speeds of 20 mph+.

MT (Mother Theresa) started the day with providing instructions to a few people that were good with directions-- as well as Lee/Snotty Boomister (consistent nasal discharge). Shortly thereafter we were off.

The riders headed out on the traditional route through Cary and up, down and all around through Carpenter Firestation. It was amazing how composed the Thorns were during this portion of the ride with Desert Flower leading us through. All were behaving well until the route by Del Webb that sported a slight but consistent incline. The added discomfort made way for a chorus of complaining and unwell wishing over the holiday food assortment previously enjoyed. The group then stopped to coalesce and catch their breath.

After the pause, everyone went on towards 751, where the speed quickened and the hills grew more challenging -- Slow Jen Fizz declared that perhaps the road had been lengthened and the hills steepened since our last venture out this way. Which seemed possible because the road kept going and going and going, until after an eternity everyone arrived at 751.

At this point we all were spent and fantasizing about the figgy pudding and eggnog enjoyed the previous week...but now it was payback time. So the Thorns lounged about on the corner of 751 discussing Kinesiology and the origin of life until eventually it was suggested we should continue. Green Flash / Desert Flower made an observation that a storm cloud might be approaching in the distance, but-- because the extraordinarily accurate, bulk computer generated weather forecast from Weather.com was always right --and that it had predicted only a 12.4% chance of precipitation from 9:30 to 10:45 AM....what could possibly go wrong.

The group ventured on and soon it began snowing; I mean really snowing..in the eyes, covering our hands, head and full frontal parts. At first it was a novelty, but after turning left on Stage Coach, the group was in a complete emergency evacuation minus the blow-up slide. The Roses/Stems and Thorns became separated from their cycling friends...similar, but not at all comparable to the Christmas Classic "Home Alone". The hills around Stage Coach did not make things any better, as it exasperated the snow breathing effect.

At the top of one of the hills, the remaining Thorns collected and discussed turning around or venturing on. One important fact was that we just came down 751 which would then need to be re-climbed and we had just climbed up a hill which would be wasted effort. So we decided to tap into that illogical spirit that had gotten us into the mess in the first place, and finish out the ride. So the group rode on, keeping just the track / snowy image of the person in front of them in view UNTIL finally the clouds parted (could swear a harp played in the background) and we approached the old route by Jordan Lake and Martha's Chapel. We did not have to survive on the disgusting power gels that the group had amongst them, We-Were-Saved!

The Thorns finished out the ride at 41 miles at a 17 mph pace (with snow chains) and were thankful for an epic ride and the opportunity to return home among the comfort of family, friends..even relatives.

Ride in the New Year

2011-01-03T10:50:00.001-05:00

Jan 1st 2011.

A great way to start the New Year.

Almost 2 dozen Thorns N Roses start the New Year together

A later start allowed for everyone to get some extra sleep after ringing in the New Year, and also allowed for the Temps to warm.

It had been a couple of weeks since the Thorns N Roses had met for a weekend ride. The weather and the Holidays took precedence over the gathering of the bicyclists.

Those participating in the Jan 1st ride included:
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie
Kevin Smit – GOG
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa
Josh Carter – Moving Violation – back with the group after missing for too long.. Welcome back young pup.
Todd McBride – he is a rider you can always count on to help take care of the pack and anyone who falls off the back.
Elise Cobb – Popsicle - she and Jim are the first to pay in full for the Thorns N Roses Jersey.
Jim Cobb
Deb Hollis – Two Saddles
Marrianne Mann - #1 in the Bush
Ann Munn
Kaleo Bullard
David Bridenbaugh – Mr. Bridenbaugh
Doug Augustine – Rumble Strip
Sheila Augustine
Patti Lewis – Patti Melt
Jeff Hofferet
Lee Duncan – Sonic Boom
Shawn Richardson – Killer Bee
Lori Brogden
Andy Brogden
Kiki Rodu – Twinkle Toes - arrived late and joined the group of Thorns as they blasted thru Preston
Robert Renkey – also arrived late and joined the Thorns as they slid out of the parking lot.

Prior to the start GOG reminded everyone that there are still small patches of snow and ice to keep an eye out for as well as all the sand on the edges and intersections of the roads.

GOG gave the Thorns a hint of the days route. He had emailed all letting them know the days ride would be about 35 miles. While GOG was describing the route, Killer Bee suggested the bike path GOG talked about would not be a good choice due to how wet and shaded it has been. GOG immediately realized Killer Bee was correct. Others also chimed in suggesting that the wood bridges would be very slippery. GOG made a quick adjustment to the route out of town and suggested the route include key nicknamed roads such as;

Ron’s Pull, The 3 ugly sisters, Martha’s Chapel, Kevin’s Crawl, Waffle Run, with a return on Nicole’s Roller Coaster, and on in to the finish. Those who have been riding with the group long enough to understand these nicknamed roads were good to go. Others would just have to follow those in the know. GOG recognized the body language of several who were anxious to push the pace from the very start, he released them to punish each other. He and others slowly rolled out of the parking lot and onto the roads leading out of Cary.

Those riding a more relaxed pace included:

Mr. Bridenbaugh who had actuall stopped and waited on GOG as he fixed his bike computer that had stopped registering speed and distance.
Rumble Strip who had also waited on GOG
Sheila Augustine
Patti Melt
Lori and Andy Brogden
Ann Munn
Mother Theresa

Everyone else was already caught up in the adrenaline rush created by the Thorns as they pushed their way out of Cary.

The ride unfolded with the two groups riding their own pace. The Thorns elected to skip the 3 ugly sisters and instead did the entire length of Lueter Shop to the strawberry patch, with it’s obligatory County Line Sprint at about it’s half way mark.

The Stem/Roses rode with all members in sight and took occasional stops to allow for all to regroup, blow noses, drink water, and visit.
At the county line sprint non of the Stem/Roses made a play for the victory. This confused Mr. Bridenbaugh as he observed that Mother Theresa was the first to that cherished victory line. “Does Mother Theresa always take the sprint with this group” he asked GOG. Mr. Bridenbaugh normally rides with the Thorns and had not seen such lack of aggressiveness from others. “NO, She doesn’t even recognize there was a county line there or that anyone would try to get there first” GOG went on to explain. The look on Mr. Bridenbaugh was one of total shock and disbelief. How is it that no one in the group would push themselfs to the Victory Line?

Mother Theresa was having a good ride. She was pushing the pace and found herself time and time again near the front of the group that had formed the Stems/Roses.
It was then that GOG began to realize that several of those who normally ride with the Stems/Roses were not with the group, and had in fact left the parking lot with the Thorns. Now he began to wonder if the Thorns would respond to having those in their midst and work to make sure none were dropped, or if the Thorns would attack and never look back. GOG could only hope that any who were shredded off the back of the Thorns were joined by others so no one would have to ride alone. As GOG continued the ride he kept a keen eye out for any solo riders in the distance.

As the Stems/Roses reached the Strawberry patch GOG contemplated turning early onto Holland Chapel (Waffle Run) in an effort to ride that section in reverse to find the Thorns who would be coming from the opposite direction. He elected to stay the course and directed the group onto Martha’s Chapel were they would all enjoy to long steady down hill run to the lake. As they approached the lake GOG recognized first Todd McBride and then Kaleo who were headed back up Martha’s Chapel. These two riders had been dropped earlier by the Thorns and had in fact turned earlier on Waffle run to find the Pack of Thorns headed towards them. This is what GOG had considered doing as well earlier to find the Thorns and assess who was still with them.

GOG now watched in his mirror to see if Todd and Kaleo would turn and regroup with the Stems/Roses, or continue on up Martha’s Chapel in an effort to head for home. To his joy they turned to regroup.
Upon regrouping Todd informed GOG of their previous course change and that they had seen the Thorns and that #1 in the Bush and Moving Violation were riding just off the back of the Thorns. They were all up the road about 10 minutes ahead of the Stems/Roses. This was great news to GOG. All cyclists were accounted for and no one was riding alone. That is the spirit of the group. Nice that there is always someone to pull out of the pack to make sure any solo rider is protected by some one from the pack who wants to make sure all return safe and sound.

The Stem/Roses paused at Lake Jordan to allow for more Nose Blowing, Bio Breaks in the woods, and chit chat before they headed up Kevin’s Crawl toward Waffle Run.
At the end of Waffle Run (Holland Chapel) Lori and Andy both told GOG that they planed to take an alternate route home and that they would be OK and to go on without them.

The Stems/Roses continued the run from the Strawberry Patch into Cary Glenn where they would encounter Nicole’s Roller Coaster. It was there that Sheila told GOG that Rumble Strip had peeled off by himself and took a more direct route to their home. The group continued onto Carpenter Fire Station road, across highway 55 and onto Capn’s Grave Yard. GOG turned the group towards Lewis Stevens thinking all would take the back way through Preston to the finish. It was then that Kaleo fell way off the back of the pack. GOG held up to make sure all was OK. “I am Cramping real bad” he moaned. “Is it your calfs?” GOG asked. “NO the big ones my Thighs” groaned Kaleo.

GOG then raced to the front of the pack to let them know he and Kaleo would be taking a less hilly way into the finish. That was all anyone wanted to hear and they all elected to also avoid those last few hills. All the Stems/Roses finished the ride by traveling down High house and into the parking lot.

The Stems/Roses completed 34 miles at a 15.1 mph average.

The Thorns did 33 miles at 18 mph average.

A great start to the New Year.

Frost Bite 5 mile RTP Time Trial

2010-12-04T18:43:00.000-05:00

The decision had been made a couple weeks earlier to conduct an unofficial self timed time trial for the Thorns N Roses group.

This would be the second one conducted in a series of Time Trial events.

The 29 degrees at 9 am kept only the foolish interested in the planned Time Trial.

Those braving the cold included:
Kevin Smit - GOG
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa – she opted to go shopping instead of on the bike ride.
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie – was struggling with stomach issues and wisely elected to go home and take care of himself vs riding in cold weather.
Todd McBride
Elise Cobb – stopping in Brueggers to visit the rest room. GOG asked her if she could be talked out of the ride and her reply was – “I am dressed and ready to ride”. Later on she learned that there are not enough layers to keep her warm. In fact she turned in to a “Popsicle” on the ride. Sounds like a good nick name for this rider.
David Bridenbaugh – Mr. Bridenbaugh
Jim Cobb
Ginny Davis
Chris Stark
Cary Millichip – back from a successful Beach to Battleship Ironman event – well done SIR.
Shawn Richardson – the Green Flash
Lee Duncan – Sonic Boom.

GOG had scoped out the route for the time trial and was excited to show all those in attendance what he had planned for them. GOG knew the route would be more challenging than what would meet the eye. The rolling hills would surprise the most fit and able bodied. Five miles does not seem far, but with a slight head wind, cold dry air filling the lungs, and the non-flat course, those five miles would feel more like ten.

Prior to the ride GOG produced a Thorns N Roses Liability Release for all to sign. All riders are going to be asked to sign the Thons N Roses Liability Release form. This form is designed to make it clear that all who participate in the weekend rides understand the inhearnt risk of riding a bike in traffic.

The group was guided out of the parking lot with all heading towards the standard Preston exit out of Cary. The Green Flash and Sonic Boom were already challenging each other to measure the others competitive spirit for the day’s ride. The average pace thru the Preston neighborhood was over 18 mph vs the normal 13 mph. GOG was already working harder than what he experiences near the end of a long ride, and the group was just warming up in their first 3 miles.

The group reassembled long enough for GOG to swing up from the rear and telegraph the next turn putting the pack on to Ron’s pull. No pace line formed as each cyclist was working to continue their warm up without over exerting themselves in anticipation of the Time Trial. Sonic Boom exploded out away from the rest in an effort to raise his body Temp. Later he was seen slowing down and falling back into the pack as he announced that his fingers had finally warmed up.

GOGs next commands put the cyclists onto Lewis Stevens and across Morrisville Carpenter and onto Koppers Road that then becomes McCrimmon Parkway. The route cross over Davis and then parallels Highway 54 as the pack turned left onto Church St.

Again the pace was strong with Sonic Boom and The Green Flash once again testing each other in an effort to see who was more ready for the days Time Trial event. The group then were directed thru and new neighborhood that wound its way back towards and eventually onto Davis for a short distance. A left off of Davis had the group riding on Hopson Road and among the 540 construction equipment. From here the group was directed left back onto Louis Stephens Dr. in the RTP area. It will be on this road that the time trial will be conducted.

GOG held the pack up just as they crossed Kit Creek Road.

GOG asked all to pay attention as he described the “Time Trial route, and how it would be conducted.

“Here is the start of your Time Trial”, “We will take this all the way to were it intersects Davis Drive”, “At that point you will make a U – turn around the median and return on Louis Stephens back to this location but on the other side of the median”. “The course is not closed so you will need to be aware of all traffic”. “Lets ride the route together and make note for yourselves on any obstacles, sharp turns, the intersection at Davis and how to safely navigate the U-Turn” , “I will reset my odometer and measure out five miles from this starting point”. “Think about what order you want to go in with each rider starting 30 seconds behind the previous one”.

The group road slower than the pace set to get to that location. GOG was still averaging 18 mph as he rode the course, thinking he felt pretty strong, and anticipating a 20+ mph average during the actual Time Trial. Upon completion of the trial run GOG was able to easily mark the five mile ending point.

“OK, Who goes first?” he asked.

“I will” chimed in Gary Milichip. “I am still working through recovery from the Ironman event” he added.

The order and times for each rider are as follows, with on 3 seconds separating the two fastest times over the five mile Individual Time Trial.

Gary Millichip              16:05
Chris Stark                   15:40
Ginny Davis                 17:26
Kevin Smit                  16:44
Elise Cobb                   16:58
Todd McBride            17:40
Jim Cobb                     15:18
David Bridenbaugh   14:15
Shawn Richardson    13:51 – Fastest time
Lee Duncan                13:54

Everyone enjoyed themselves and are looking for the next time this Time Trial will be conducted. The expectation is to do this at least two if not three times a year to help monitor progress. The 2 mile Time Trial Route will also be conducted two to three times a year. GOG is still working on a 10 to 12 mile route, however the logistics and traffic on that route make pose to great an issue to conduct the Time Trial.

Lee Duncan – Sonic Boom – completed the course having gone last. As he finished bodily fluids were streaming from his nose and mouth. He did not have the energy to wipe that away and the slime wiggled and jiggled as Lee attempted to communicate to the group that he rode as hard as he could have. He also expanded on how hard it is to do an individual Time Trial, and how he did not expect the course to be so challenging.

Elise was quietly shivering as she allowed each rider to complete the event, log their times, and then GOG explain the return route back to the finish expecting to have completed 36 miles for the days ride.
GOG looked over at Elise and urged the pack to head out since Elise was turning into a Popsicle. Poor Elise has none of the winter body fat stores that can protect her from the cold.

Stay tuned for more announced Unofficial Time Trials.
Also make sure you sign the Thorns N Roses Liability Release Form.

Nov 13th ride

2010-11-26T09:45:00.000-05:00

This write up is brought to you by Lee Duncan - SONIC BOOM.
Thanks Lee for the write up.

Here’s a recap of Saturday’s ride on 11/13/10.

42 Miles

17.2 Ave Speed

2,500 Calories

2,200 ft Ascent

Riders included:

Robert Renke (I think - apologies if name’s wrong)

Chris (I think - apologies if name’s wrong)

Rob Robertson – Top Rookie

David Bridenbaugh – Mr. Bridenbaugh

Jim Cobb – Been riding with us for a month

Elise Cobb – Been riding with us for a month

Lee Duncan – Sonic Boom

Shawn Richardson – Dessert Flower

Sorry if I missed anyone else.

A fantastic day for riding. A million thanks to Rob Robertson – Top Rookie for organizing the queue sheet and taking the initiative to ensure we had a great ride.

It was a cold morning with the temperature starting out in the mid to high 30s. But this wasn't the first frost ride for the fearless crew. In fact it was a marked improvement from the last Saturday with 40 degree temps and rain. Everyone was dressed appropriately and ready to go. The sun was out as we clicked in, which helped trick us into believing that our behavior was normal.

Top Rookie had us going on an entirely new way out of Cary and we all were excited to see what type of adventure was ahead. The group stayed huddled together, tapping our peddles around as we negotiated the city streets. It was fun looking at the people in the cars looking at us, as they wondered what would make a grown adult go biking early on a Saturday at these temps. The obvious answer is, if we need to explain it to you wouldn't understand. After stopping at a few lights, the group headed into Apex and the fun began. It was now time to exercise rule number 6: Never Take Yourself or those within Shouting Distance too seriously...the banter was on.

If there was a top honor for the most unruly, yet athletic rider of the day it had to be the distinguished gentleman David Bridenbaugh. He was attacking at every opportunity, pushing the pace and exhibiting the very essence of Thorndom. An unbelievably feisty performance through and through. Top Rookie was riding aggressively as well. One notable moment was when he attacked and passed the peloton while stating "I'm really impressed". This was a commanding and precisely executed use of banter. Jim Cobb and Elise Cobb rode very well, demonstrating that the couple that bikes together---bikes together.. Elise Cobb was the only Lady rider of the day and we appreciated having her with us. Dessert Flower had his fixie on and was pulling the group along and helping to organize the flock. He had several Olympic efforts, including a soloist run up by Tingen road/Apex Deliverance area where the group struggled to keep him in sight. Robert (man in black) was having an easy time with the tempo of the day, with the only exception of a slippery water bottle incident that sent him fetching. And Chris, Jim Shawn and David traded efforts in some secret game to beat Sonic Boom to a pulp (biker in the middle?)--knowing that he (SB) will chase anything even when he is spent. See graphical detail at the bottom.

Overall a fantastic ride with everyone enjoying themselves and arriving home safely.

Holloween weekend

2010-11-04T15:28:00.000-05:00

This write up is brought to you by Rob Roberston - Top Rookie
Thanks Rob for providing this for the group.
here’s a recap of Saturday’s ride on 10/30/10.

Riders included:
Gary Millichep
Todd McBride
Robert Renke
Marianne Mahn - #1 in the Bush
Lee Duncan – Sonic Boom
Shawn Richardson – In his Green Flash incarnation
Jim Coughlin – Domestique
Chris (I think - apologies if name’s wrong)
James Lavin – Nickname suggested, see below.
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie

Sorry if I missed anyone else.

Everyone milled about until around 8:40. We talked about the route and decided to do the Big Woods loop, but without Lystra this time around. This, we figured, would give us ~45 miles. Weather was quite brisk, and everyone was taking extra care to bundle up.

We started off and ran the basic route to highway 55. At this point Domestique, still on his heavy hybrid, decided that he didn’t want to try to keep up with the stems/thorns and peeled off to ride a shorter, more relaxed distance. We offered to have someone ride with, but he insisted he was okay, so we continued on course. Things picked up very quickly after crossing 55, and we raced toward the lake. Todd and Marianne did a great job of keeping up with the group; Todd in particular was riding like a madman, and he burned several matches sprinting toward the Chatham County line. Your humble correspondent flatly refused to joined in this sprint, as he was encountering severe flashbacks from his tire popping experience the week before. We waited at appropriate points for everyone to catch up and rolled into Lystra gas station as planned.

During the break at the gas station, James announced that he was freezing and heading back. Attempts to encourage, then beg, then reason, then insult him into continuing on had no affect; his mind was made up. Further, more intense encouragement, pleading, reasoning, and insulting ensued, but was again ineffectual. At some point during the proceedings, Green Flash suggested that we get James a “widdle blankie”, or, better yet, a SNUGGIE! From there, things went downhill quickly… we immediately began thinking up the appropriate designs for James’ snuggie. An NCSU snuggie was suggested, then a Carolina snuggie, then (appropriately) someone shouted, “I’ve got it! He needs a TREK SNUGGIE!!!” This got us on a whole different tack, suggesting Shimano Snuggie, Gyro snuggie, carbon-fiber snuggie, and other, cycling-related snuggie designs. People who were pumping gas into their vehicles thought we were nuts, but I think everyone was laughing too hard to care. And, in the end, James still went back on his own – to a chorus of, “You Wuss!!!” Reports that Lee Duncan is looking at investing into a niche market of biking related snuggie designs could not be substantiated. As a result of this incident – your reporter suggests that James Lavin can only be known henceforth as – SNUGGIE-Boy!

From there, we headed to Big Woods, and on to Wilsonville without further incident. Todd continued to impress, but looked a little tired at the next rest stop and Marianne was starting to flag a bit also (even though she had ridden strong up to this point). These two really did a great job, hanging with the thorns. The thorns left Wilsonville, with Todd and Marriane running a little slower behind them. Sonic Boom led the charge, and pushed a 20+ pace most of the way back. In fact, he was getting pretty annoying about the whole thing by sprinting ahead, then waiting, then sprinting ahead, then waiting, etc. Unfortunately for him, we finally found out his stamina/riding secret. After catching up to him at the Strawberry Patch, we noticed him pouring a suspicious white powder from a well worn baggie into his water bottle. We suspected that he had been doing this each time he had sprinted ahead. We crowded around to get a better look; but he wouldn’t let us see and definitely refused to share. Accordingly, we can only conclude that he has gone over to the dark side along with Contador, Landis, et al and that he is using a Columbian imported, performance enhancing product. Shocked by this revelation, we proceeded on and came in the standard route through the Sisters, etc. The thorns ended up running 46 miles at almost 18mph. Todd and Marianne came in a couple minutes behind. Good ride on a chilly day.

Rob

Oct 16 and 17 weekend rides.

2010-10-21T10:29:00.000-05:00

Saturday Oct 16.

Those in attendance included
Kevin Smit – GOG
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa
Ron Clanton – Just Ron
Tracy Clanton – Rose Pedal
Deb Hollis – Two Saddles (Just back from her Triathlon )
Gary Millichip
Steve Cope – Capn Carbon – on his fixie
Todd McBride
Shawn Richardson – The Green Flash
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie
Jae Brainard
Mary Ann Feagan
Robert Renke
Marianne Mahn - #1 in the Bush
Paul Franklin – First time riding with the group
Kim Barker – First time riding with the group.
Max Ivanovich
Kiki – Now with a nickname – read to find out her new name.

The Smits arrived with just enough time to pull the bikes out of the van and for GOG to run around collecting names of the participants. He briefly welcomed the new first timers, said a few quick hello’s before the Roses took off ahead of the Thorns and Stems. The Roses are far more anal about the start time than the Thorns. The Thorns were all still chit chatting as the Roses rolled away.

GOG had planed to try and keep the Thorns and stems together as much as possible during the days ride. He was not going to divulge any of the planned route. The Thorns have been riding the various routes long enough that even with a slight hint of were the group might be going they can mostly deduce the rest of the way, especially if told how many miles the day’s route is expected to cover.

The Thorns pulled out of the parking lot with GOG in the lead. The group remained well under control as he directed to riders through the standard exit route from Cary. During this time GOG did share a little more information about how the group rides with the First Timers. They were ready for what ever the group might do and showed little concern for the fact that the route can be altered based upon situations that may occur during the ride.

GOG continued to remain in control as he commanded the pack towards Jenks Carpenter and its long hill up to Holt. The attack on the hill unfolded with GOG finding himself able to capitalize on the momentum from the previous down hill run. This put him in an unusual spot near the front of the attacking group. This surprised even Capn Carbon who shared these kind words with GOG as Capn scampered past him “nice job old man”.

What GOG did not know is that the majority of the pack was held up due to a near accident. Apparently one of the cyclists clipped the lip of the road where it transitions between blacktop and the cement curb area. Their front tire was violently sent into a wobble that was miraculously controlled by the rider with assistance from Top Rookie who was there for the rider to bump into, which actually kept the rider from falling over. A great job of bike handling by those two.

While all riders were finishing their climb Capn Carbon demanded to know were the ride goes from that point. “I have a time constraint and need to be back by 11:30”, “I need to know where the route goes so I can turn back early if needed” he demanded.

GOG knew at that moment he was no longer in control of the Thorns. The information he was about to share would launch the Thorns into speeds that would shatter his hopes of keeping the Thorns and Stems together, and the plans that GOG had for the group were just about to be thrown out the window.

“We head into Apex, DO NOT Do Tingen.”, “Instead turn right at Hunter, stay on it all the way to the Church”. This was all GOG wanted to share in the hopes that the Thorns would reassemble with the Stems at that point in the ride.

“OK but then were do we go” demanded Capn Carbon.

“To Toddy Goodwin, and then Wilsonville” GOG said in a low defeated tone.

He did not want to share any more information about the ride from that point. His intent of only sharing that much was to force the Thorns to then wait there at Wilsonville to allow the Stems to regroup with them. From there GOG was planning to take the group down 64 to the Parker Creek Camp group where he and Mother Theresa had set up camp. They would then invite anyone who wanted to comeback after the ride to go boating and sit around the camp fire. GOG also expected to then direct the pack onto Big Woods and then the route home.

Well none of that happened.

Before the Thorns entered Apex the split occurred. Mother Theresa was having a bad biking day and GOG was not going to leave her to ride by herself. He was joined by Todd McBride and #1 in the Bush to form the stems and keep an eye on Mother Theresa.

The stems did not even ride together much. Each rider found their own pace as they responded to the various hills and stop lights, with Mother Theresa finding all the red lights along the way. At no point did the stems loose site of each other and did regroup at the church at the end of Olive Chapel road. The Thorns were no where in sight. After a short rest they then set out towards Tody Goodwin and as they did so they again each fell into their own pace, riding solo but within site of each other. The Stems paused at the end of Tody Goodwin before making the turn towards Wilsonville. The run towards Wilsonville did see a temporary draft line by the Stems with Mother Theresa slowly falling off the pace.

NO ONE, not a single biker was at Wilsonville when the Stems arrived.

No point in dragging this ride on any further, GOG thought to himself. He adjusted the route to head back towards Cary. He continued to ponder his options. Should he direct them down Horton Pond? No, it is two rough and hilly, and then there is the challenge of Green level and its traffic and ugly hill. Should he do Martha’s Chapel? No, there is no point in adding any extra miles.

OK then we will do the boring relatively flat Holland Chapel, then Luter Shop and on in.

But how best to finish the ride from the edge of Cary. Do we do Nicole’s Roller Coasters, or Sears Farm? How about something we have not done in a long time? Lets do UPCHCUK but from the opposite direction. That is actually a fun fast down hill and not a very tough climb back up to Carpenter Fire Station. That is it. We will do UPCHUCK in reverse. GOG now had a plan that made him feel like he was offering something special for the riders.

The group of Stems completed their ride in the same fashion. Each rider riding solo but well in sight of each other.

The Stems completed 41 miles at a 16.4 avearge

The Thorns ended up also with around 40 miles at a 18+ average.

Items to note regarding the Thorns ride. Prior to arriving at Wilsonville the Green Flash blew a spoke on his rear wheel. They took just enough time to find the suspect spoke. It had disintegrated and was no longer physically attached to the hub or rim. Only a gap in the spoke pattern remained. They tweaked the spokes that surrounded the gap in an effort to true the wheel enough for the Green Flash to continue his ride.

At Wilsonville Kim Barker asked the Green Flash “What spoke is missing?”

“The one that is no longer there” was his snide remark.

“I can see you are a Smart Ass” she snipped back.

An excellent exchange of BANTER. Well done you two.

It is all about the Banter not the Bike.

While sitting around after the ride Top Rookie told GOG he had a great nickname for Kiki. She was sitting there and insisted he tell everyone. “No, No, No”. “I will let GOG know of my suggestion later and he has the final VOTE on the name”. Rob said with great joy. “Kiki will just have to wait for the next ride write-up to learn what her nickname is”. GOG said with a big teasing grin on his face.

Top Rookie giggled with delight.

Later that weekend.

“So here is my suggestion for Kiki’s Nickname” Rob said softly and with great excitement.

A short pause as Rob looked in all directions to make sure he was not overheard.

“TWIKLE TOES” he shouted.

Another short pause.

“Perfect”. GOG announced. “It is because of her peddling technique”. GOG said to confirm how Top Rookie came up with the nickname.

“Yea, she peddles with her toes down and her heals up”. “You ride behind her and you can see the entire bottom of her shoes”. “TWINKLE TOES”. Rob Shouted again.

A high five was exchange between the two in honor of Kiki’s New Nickname.

TWINKLE TOES.

Sunday Oct 17th.

A small gathering of Thorns and Roses.

Today maybe the pack will hang together.

Those in attendance included:
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie
Karen Robertson – Rose Bud, Billy Goat Gruff, Unstable, ……
Todd McBride
Kevin Smit – GOG – on his fixie
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa
Sondra Devincenzo
Ann Munn
James Lavin
Marianne Mahn - #1 in the Bush
Shawn Richardson – Killer Bee on his black and gold Fixie.

“OK James and Shawn not sure what you are looking for but you are the only Thorns here today. I was planning a casual 25 - 30 mile ride with everyone hanging together. If you are interested in jumping in with CSH let me know and I can plan the route to accommodate that. Otherwise I am planning a different route.” GOG was heard as he tried to warn and accommodate the Thorns at the same time.

“Not looking to go hard, not needing to jump in with CSH” James explained to GOG, as Shawn just nodded in agreement.

GOG knew his route would be followed as he had planned for, and that all riders would stay together providing for a nice relaxed ride of about 30 miles.

The riders were slow to warm up and slow to start the Chit Chat. Before the pack had left the round-about in Preston the pace was gaining speed as was the chit chat.

GOG directed the pack towards Highway 55 on High House and into the Summerset neighborhood. This path put the bikers onto the green way system that goes thru a tunnel under Highway 55. In that tunnel plan to hear Primordial Screams from several of the Bikers, GOG being one of those who loves to send out a high pitched scream that echoes off the walls of the tunnel.

Out of the tunnel and onto a couple of miles of the scenic greenway system. The Thorns and Roses demonstrated great respect for all those sharing the path. The rode well under control, announcing all runners, walkers, bikers, and providing plenty of room for safe passage.

At the end of the Green Way the riders found themselves on Edgemore avenue that would then lead them to Sears Farm Road followed by Green Hope High School Road, and the way out of Cary towards all points west. It was hear that GOG expected the Two Thorns to attack each other (Top Rookie is also a Thorn, but is expected to show constraint since his wife is riding with him). They did not but did slowly pull others at ever increasing speeds. The pack made it to the next turn at Green Level only to turn just in front of a pack of bicyclist who had left from the Bicycle Chain location in Cary. GOG was in the lead position and watched in his mirror as the double pace line of the Bicycle Chain group swallowed up and then spit out all the Thorns and Roses who had just made the turn onto Green Level.

As the last rider of the Bicycle Chain cleared the front of the Thorns and Roses GOG was surprised to see that none of the Thorns jumped to take advantage of this double pace line.

It did not take long for Top Rookie, Killer Bee, and James to slide past GOG. They said nothing. They then slowed and looked around as if to ask. “Can we GO can we Please”

“Lets regroup just after the county line Sprint” GOG shouted out to them, giving them permission to mix it up a bit. Instantly all three Thorns were working together to close the gap on the Bicycle Chain riders.

“I hesitated too long, can’t catch them now” Todd told GOG.

“You can catch the Thorns, They will then pull you into the pace line” explained GOG as they both watched the Thorns in pursuit of the pace line. In no time at all the three Thorns were safely tucked into the end of the double pace line.

GOG and the others found the Three Thorns gliding along beyond the county line. “Thanks for waiting up guys we will regroup just at the next road”.

A short break and the pack was directed to make a right off of Luter Shop towards Mount Pisgah. Jae was the first to attack the hills of Mount Pisgah. She was followed closely by #1 in the Bush. GOG and Killer Bee both had to let loose on the down hills as their Fixie’s demanded high rpms at the peddles, only to then demand the two stand up and pump hard on the up hills.

At the end of Mount Pisgah both Killer Bee and James were looking for more miles than what was planned. They elected to head towards Lake Jordan as the other turned towards RTP and Cary. Everyone said their goodbyes and wished them a safe fun ride.

“Next turn at the Tobacco Trail”, “Karen’s Crash Alley” GOG announced. “I have crashed on that path too” Jae informed the group.

All slowed and navigated thru the narrow gates that keep cars off but allow for bikes and walkers onto the Tobacco Trail (Crash Alley). Again all riders were respectful of the multi use path. Today’s ride on Crash Alley had all riders completing that section without any bumping or crashing.

At old Kelley they were directed to turn right and head towards Cary, however GOG was planning on turning all towards RTP once they had made it to the first left turn off of Old Kelley.

The riders enjoyed doing this section of a regular route in reverse. The scenery and Hills are so different when riding in opposite directions.

After the run across highway 55 the pack reassembled at Lewis Stevens. “This would be another great spot for a time trial” Jae was heard explaining. “Yep, I had already mapped it out on Google Earth, Just not sure were to start.” “If we start here and do an out and back we do not have to worry about stop lights” GOG went on to clarify his idea.

“Jae can you set your computer and measure the distance one way to the end of this section for us, then we will know how long an out and back time trial would be”. GOG went on to ask.

“Jae you want more time trials?”, “I did not know you were a competitive person” GOG said in amazement. “Just with myself” she said with a smile and with total conviction.

Everyone rode that section of Lewis Stevens. It is wide, smooth, had several long gradual inclines. Perfect for an out and back time trial location. Look for it in the future. Another Sunday Time Trial opportunity.

At the end of Lewis Stevens everyone agreed the road would make a great time trial spot. Jae then took the lead as she suggested everyone stay on Davis to the second stop light and then turn right back towards Cary. Most everyone already knew were they were and how to get back home from there.

On the way back the group encountered another cyclist on the road. It was Peng Mok who has ridden with the group a couple of time before. He was just starting his day’s ride. He rode with the pack for about a mile or two before turning towards points west as the pack was turning east towards the Preston neighborhood and the last 2 or 3 miles of their ride.

The Sunday ride covered a relaxed and entertaining 25 ish miles.

James and Shawn planed for a total of 50 miles when they left the pack on Mount Pisgah.

Oct 9 and 10 A surprise visit and a Sunday Time Trial

2010-10-14T17:29:00.001-05:00

Saturday 10-9-1010

Surprise visit by Down Hill Racer.
in attendance:
Kevin Smit – GOG
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa
Jeff Roussel – Down Hill Racer – stopped in to say hello – he was visiting family in the area having just moved to Virginia this last summer. It was great to spend what little time we had to catch up.
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie
Andy Hartsfield – Just back from his bike ride in the Czech Republic
Barb Hartsfield – also just back form the bike ride in the Czech Republic
Gary Millichep (spelling is questionable)– 2nd time riding with the group – Gary is training for the Beach to Battleship Triathlon.
Todd McBride.
Robert Renke
Jim Cobb – 2nd time riding with the group
Elise Cobb – 1st time riding with the group.
Max Ivanovich – 1st time riding with the group – he is tapering for a Triathlon in a couple of weeks.
Marianne Mahn - #1 in the Bush
Joe Pittman – Immortal Man
Lee Duncan – Sonic Boom
Shawn Richardson – Dessert Flower
Todd Pechner – Slow Todd - Joining the group as they headed out of Preston.

The day was shaping up to be a great day to ride. The group was eager to see were GOG was planning to take them. He started off suggesting the ride would be between 40 – 45 miles. He also went on to give hints as to what roads they would likely be traveling.

The group all rolled out of the parking lot and worked to remain in a tight pack early. However they were missing Mother Theresa and the Harfields who were there to watch out for Theresa who was realizing she still had the covers on her cleats.

The trailing troupe was quick to catch up as GOG was effective in slowing the pack down in an effort to keep all riders together for as long as possible on this days ride.

All made the light at Davis drive. GOG and Top Rookie were pleased that Mother Theresa was also able to successfully time the green light. Mother Theresa is working on obtaining a second nick name. Several that are appropriate include: “Last Off the Line”, or “Slow to Start”, or “I Was Not Ready”.

As the pack rolled thru the round-a-bout in Preston they were met by Slow Todd who was able to hang out there waiting to the Thorns&Roses to swing thru his neighborhood. Slow Todd had limited time to ride due to family commitments. He was using the ride to help him recover from his recent Triathlon event were he placed high in his age division. Only GOG would be in a higher age division but that has no impact on the fact that Slow Todd was proud of the job he did and rightfully so.

The group was directed to make a left onto Lewis Stevens followed by another left onto Carpenter Upchurch. The group all make the swing towards High House and the next quick turn out of Cary. All anticipated the hill and the expected attacks as the riders made their way to the stop sign at Holt. The group did not have to wait long at all the group to assemble at the top of the hill. From the advantage of those still climbing the hill it appeared that Dessert Flower and Sonic Boom battled it out for the King of the Hill with Dessert Flower taking the win.

The pack was then directed to turn left onto Holt towards Apex. A pace line was formed as this section of road is narrow and heavily trafficked. At the next stop sign GOG was checking out his gear shifting that had been demonstrating issues, as a car pulled out around the pack and made a left turn. “What You Can’t Wait” GOG shouted at the driver. At the same time GOG noticed the driver was pointing to the front of the pace line as if to say “I am sorry they told me to”.. At the same time Desert Flower was trying to inform GOG. “ I told her to go, it was clear” he said in a feeble attempt to calm down GOG who is known for his quick response to inconsiderate drivers.

“Rats I did not notice you had asked them to swing on by, Sorry.” GOG said realizing he is always ready to confront an inconsiderate driver.

The pack rolled thru a left turn onto Old Jenks once all traffic was clear.

“You need to command your rights” Sonic Boom said in support of GOG’s earlier tirade.

The Thorns N Roses were now all making the right turn onto Old Salem as they headed into the bowels of APEX and the sections of road used as staging for the “TINGEN SALT FLATS”. That is a section of road heading out of Apex that allows all riders and drivers to set land speed records. Today was no exception for both Bicycle Riders and the Porsche Club. Just as the Thorns N Roses assembled into a perfect single file draft line they were startled by the Porsche club who launched themselves and there mighty sports cars into high gear as they zoomed past the riders on the left. There was no “ON YOUR LEFT’ as each cars gear box silently tapped the next gear.

This ignited the Thorns to take pursuit. The pace line was relegated to the fate of a slinky as the Thorns pulled at the lead and the Stems responded as best they could to contract and catch up from the rear.

“Make the first Left Turn, Do NOT go all the way to the end of Tingen” Shouted GOG from somewhere in the middle of the pace line.

Those in the front demonstrated a keen sense of hearing as they swept sharply into a left hand turn. “Hold Up and we will re-group” GOG Gasped again from somewhere in the pace line.

Tic Toc Tic Toc.

There is Elise and Marianne

Tic Toc Tic Toc Tic Toc Tic Tic tic tic tic tic tic

There comes theresa.

All are back together again.

GOG rolled toward the lead riders to once again provide the vital information on the next set of turns. “GOG, YOU better come back here and see your Wife” a voice from within the back of the pack warned. Immediately GOG turned and slowly glided towards the back of the stopped pelaton.

“What are the next set of turns, Where are we Going, I need to know” Demanded Mother Theresa.

“Stay straight on this road until it ends, then take a right and stay on it till it ends, That will put you at Friendship. Then make the left and stay on it till it ends. That will put you onto New Hill Holliman. Then make the right at Sharon Harris, and follow it all the way to the end at Old US 1, then take a left on Old US 1 to Bonsil, where we will turn right onto Beaver Creek Road. Take that all the way to Wilsonville and the stop at the gas station” GOG responded.

“How do we Get to Friendship?” Mother Theresa barked in frustration.

“Stay on this to the end, then make a right. Stay on that until it ends, that is were you will find Friendship” GOG went on to reiterate.

All eyes and ears were focused on that exchange.

“Divorce in two weeks” was an announcement from within the pack.

“I get the boat, I get 4 of the 12 bikes, We will sell the rest and split the proceeds” came from within the Thorns N Roses.

“We need to let GOG keep the RV, That will be his new address, once Mother Theresa is done with him in court” were the only kind words shared from within the Thorns and Roses.

GOG rolled passed the taunting crowd to suggest it was time to move on.

At the end of Old Holly Springs Apex Road the group paused to allow all who were still struggling with the hills to catch up. “I have to turn around here, Got family obligations” Slow Todd said as he made a U turn back towards Cary.

Dessert Flower was observed practicing his Track Stand while waiting for others to regroup. ‘You need to teach me that ” begged GOG. “Just Turn your front Wheel” Dessert Flower spouted.

Somehow that is not enough information for GOG to work with.

The group hesitated only long enough to see if GOG and Mother Theresa would have an additional exchange. None took place so the pack quickly launched themselves onto Holly Springs New Hill Road. Little did the group know that waiting for them were Pot Holes the size of Manhattan and cars passing on the left blocking the only safe passage around those pot holes.

On top of all that the pace was now well beyond that seen on the “Tingen Salt Flats”. There was no time to shout or point out the obstacles. Each rider had to be fully focused on the speed, traffic, and multiple road hazards to ensure their own survival. Amazingly all made it to the next regrouping spot at the turn onto Friendship. It was here that GOG made the decision to cut the Thorns loose. He provided ample description of the planed route. Acknowledgement was given back to him that the Thorns would have no issues following the expected route. “I will sweep and bring along the others” GOG announced. ‘Taking one for the team” Jim Cobb responded in appreciation for the sacrifice GOG was making for all.

Those electing to ride with the stems included:
GOG
Mother Theresa
#1 in the Bush
Todd McBride
Andy Hartsfield
Barb Hartsfield.

All others were already drooling with the thought of being turned loose to attack each other without having to stop and wait on anyone else.

The rest of the ride for the Stems was smooth with no real road hazards or drivers to content with. Andy and Barb were questioned non stop by GOG regarding their fantastic bike tour of the Czech Republic. They did a fair amount of off road/dirt trails which explained the use of mountain bikes by the tour company that organized the ride.

Marianne “#1 in the Bush” pulled the Stems along a large portion of Beaver Creek with GOG taking over the rains for the last couple of miles.

Both Andy and Barb rode very strong demonstrating the value of a week long bike tour.

Todd McBride was always in GOG’s mirror as if to let him know “You can not drop me”

A very strong performance by all riders that day completing 50 miles at averages of 17 and 18.6 for the two groups.

SUNDAY Oct 10th

Casual ride with surprise TIME TRIAL.

Yes a TIME TRIAL. The first ever unofficial self timed non-sponsored TIME TRIAL with the Thorns N Roses. GOG has been struggling with the idea of having a series of Time Trials through out the year for the group to enjoy. He has explored several routes to hold the Time Trials on. Each route would present different distances and terrain. The major issue holding GOG back from launching this concept is LIABILITY. He can not afford the cost of insurance, police, medical staff, and course marshals to help ensure everyone’s safety. To bad great ideas come with risk to the individual who wants to present them. It would not be fair to GOG’s family if they were sued because of thier Great Idea.

Any Lawyers out there want to chime in on how to protect the person or persons who would suggest this to the group.

GOG is even concerned about the fact that others may view him as the ride organizer/leader. The truth is that GOG and Capn Carbon got together several years ago to re-ignite their biking passion. Others caught wind of their rides and asked to join in. those people then told others. Then Steve Sparano “Sporadic Steve” created a Blogg and gave GOG author privileges and suggested they write about the weekend rides. Then the group decided it needed a name. First name was “Testosterone and Roses” This was fitting at the time since none of the ladies wanted to ride hard and attack each other. They were more interested in a social ride that also challenged them physically, more a Smell the Roses type attitude. Then several strong Triathlete training women came out and challenged the “Testosterone” group. This forced a name change to a more fitting :Thorns N Roses” that exists today. This ride group is not formally managed by any one person. There is no fee to ride. It is a gathering of like minded bicyclists. When GOG and Capn Carbon are not in attendance the ride group continues to ride and natural leaders within the pack guide the day’s activities.

SO in a court of LAW can there be an individual found to be responsible for what happens on any given day. What is the line that can not be crossed to keep this group fun and interesting and challenging and safe, without fear of someone being sued?

Well GOG took that risk on this Sunday’s Ride.

Those in attendance included:
Kevin Smit - GOG
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa
Todd McBride
Tim Divinney – The Love Train – Riding his wifes bike – his is broken and being worked on by the Cycle Surgeon.
Marianne Mahn - #1 in the Bush
Jeff Giordano – Claim Jumper
Jae Brainard – arrived on bike
Shawn Richardson – Killer Bee – arrived on his black and gold fixie. The ladies said he needed a new name for the all Black clothing he was wearing. They want to call him “Tarantula” He does have long legs and arms and did look very menacing.
Kaleo Bullard
Kiki
Chris Beland

“OK everyone this will be a slow relaxed ride under 30 miles, There will be at least a 2 mile stretch where you will have the opportunity to go as fast as you want”, GOG announced to the group. No more was shared until Tarantula pushed the issue. He always wants to know as much as possible of what the route, distance, and terrain might have in store. GOG did confide in him that he has planed an unofficial Time Trial effort for anyone wanting to give it a try.

The pack rolled out of the parking lot and onto High House.

The pace was well maintained. GOG can only attribute that to Tarantula waiting to see when and where the Time Trial Section would take place. Tarantula was happy to ride in the middle of the pack riding smoothly and quietly in anticipation of when he could be unleashed. The other riders spent their time chit chatting and trusting that GOG would hold true to his word that the day would be casual and short, and if they wanted to they could go fast for a short stretch. “Must be some fun down hill” they were thinking to themselves, and only if I want to do it”, they went on to tell themselves.

The route to the start of the Time Trial was as direct and flat as GOG could engineer. It included the bike path through the Sears Farm Neighborhood, out onto Green Hope High School Road, and eventually onto Luter Shop. There was only a short 30 yard sprint to the county line forced by Tarantula who was riding next to GOG at the time. Tarantula could not help himself even knowing GOG would never be a match for him

The Love Train glided up to GOG and said “I was not even paying attention, when I realized he was sprinting for the line it was too late” GOG only smiled knowing that the Love Train like all the other Thorns just can not help themselves. Like the movie “UP” when the dog sees a Squirrel it completely distracts him and he must respond “SQUIRREL!”. The Thorns are like that dog. When an attack occurs or a county line approaches, they must “ATTACK”.

The group rolled on in the cool dry October day, gliding up and over the small undulations in the road. “Hold Up Here Everyone” GOG shouted from the middle of the pack. “Here?, Why Here, Who are we waiting on” Growled the Tarantula.

“OK, Sweep the rocks out of the intersection, Notice this turn, Make sure you look left long before arriving at this sport, You will be making a right turn here, Please be careful and look for cars and other bikers, This is not a closed course, You will be coming from that direction as you do your 2 + mile TIME TRIAL effort”. There it was. GOG had just exited some, confused others, and challenged all to an individually timed 2 mile effort on their bike.

“Follow me to the next turn, make note of any obstacles in the road” GOG went on in his effort to ensure all understood the risks they may be electing to encounter for themselves.

The pack rode on with a total focus of everything GOG had suggested they focus on.

At the next stop sign GOG announced the start and stop location for the 2.2 mile loop they would be doing if they chose to time themselves in the first ever Thorns N Roses, non-sponsored unofficial, non-sanctioned, open course Time Trial.

Follow this link to see the course.

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/52996577

“OK, no one needs to do this, You are on your own, You are responsible for your own safety, you will time yourself” GOG again said in an effort to cover his ass.

“ will go in reverse order with the least experienced to the most capable” GOG was trying to be politically correct.

“I will take the challenge to call off the order, It may not be politically correct but here goes”.
“Kaleo you have only ridden a few times, you will go first”
“Jae is next”
“Followed by Theresa”
“#1 in the bush next”
“KIKI is next”
“Then Todd”
“ I will follow Todd”
“Love Train you are after me”
“Then Claim Jumper”
“Chris and Shawn you two can battle for who goes last”.

“Anyone who wants to share your time I will log it, or you can send me an email so I can share, if you do not want to share your time or you do not want to do the Time Trial that is perfectly fine” GOG again made sure no one was being forced into something they did not want to do.

“Sure don’t do this, There will be no mention of it in the BLOG, and you will not be the subject of any Banter” Claim Jumper and The Love Train were both taunting the pack.

One at a time each rider jumped off the line. Each waiting there turn by allowing the rider ahead to make it around the curve and out of sight before they then jumped on the peddles.

Those with the greatest skill off the line included:

Mother Theresa – who was clipped in – held in place by GOG – and upon the first rotation of the crank set realized she was in a very big gear and almost lost her balance. This was followed by her famous high pitched scream.

#1 in the Bush had a similar start but with out the scream.

KIKI observed the previous starts and elected to NOT have anyone hold her in place. She started with one foot off the peddles. The excitement of trying to accelerate quickly created a situation that had her free foot slip past the peddle. She then had to slow, look, and clip in before truly leaving the start line. She giggled at the effort.

Here are the riders in order of start and their times.
Kaleo - 7 +
Jae – 7 min
Mother Theresa – 8 min
#1 in the bush – 7:24
KIKI – 6:30
Todd – 7:15
GOG – 6:14
Love Train – 6:25
Claim Jumper – 6:1399999999999
Chris – 6:15
Tarantula – 5:50

All riders commented on how bad they felt for the first ½ to ¾ of a mile. How the legs ballooned up and it took that first mile to get into the proper cadence.

“We need to do this at least once a Month” KIKI squealed in delight.

Note #1 in the Bush had to visit the bushes again on this ride.

Once the time trial was complete the pack all rode together towards the start finish completing 28 total miles.

Please follow this link to the draft of the Thorns N Roses Jersey.
Thorns N Roses Draft Jersey layout

Be aware it is a 15mb pdf file. There will be some minor tweeks and we are still working on the proper color scheme. Cost is still unknown at this time.
Plan on letting us know if you want one and what size.

September 18 and 19 weekend rides

2010-09-23T21:36:00.000-05:00

Saturday Sept 18.

Those in attendance included:
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa
Kevin Smit – GOG
Jen Serino – Slow Jen Fizz
Jeff Giaordano – Claim Jumper
David Bridenbaugh – Mr. Bridenbaugh
Patty Hunt
Todd McBride
Erica Mantcuso
Wendy Just
James Lavin
Angie Chiatello
Sondra Devincenzo
Ann Munn
Jennifer Omlor – first time riding with the group - member of the NC State Triathlon Club
Kaleo Bullard
Marianne Mahn
Cyndi Hartman – first time riding with the group
Wendy Duscurry
Jim Tierney
Steve Cope – Capn Carbon
Shawn Richardson – Dessert Flower - on his white and red and blue Fixy
Robert Renke
Heidi Van Brocklin
Sandy Parrish
Andy Brogden
Lori Brogden - led the Roses on the days ride
Steve Marks
Leee Dunken – Sonic Boom

The planed route for the Thorns and Stems was to be 50 – 55 miles with an out and back on Big Woods.

The Roses were missing their normal leaders so GOG asked Lori Brogden to provide that leadership. She was more than happy to play the role. GOG and Lori then discussed the possible route for the Roses and agreed that they could take the same path out to Lake Jordan as the Thorns and Stems were taking. That would give the Roses a solid 35 – 40 miles with a light peppering of hills.

GOG then welcomed all the cyclists and explained to those riding with the group for the first time how the group works together to help ensure no one rides alone. He then announced that Lori would be leading the Roses and made sure those looking to ride that style of ride would know who to follow out of the parking lot.

With that short pre ride brief the pack was off.
The Thorns set a blistering pace right from the exit of the bruggers parking lot.

The split of Thorns and Stems was immediate. GOG was working with the stems to ensure all made the correct turns thru the Preston Neighborhood, as the Thorns never looked back and were quickly out of sight. The stems were powering thru the Preston Neighborhood at speeds well over 18 mph. This is usually were everyone warms up at about 13 – 14 mph. For some reason on this day all were caught up in a need for speed.

GOG had communicated to the group prior to leaving the start what his intentions were for the day’s route. He shared with all that he was expecting the pack to head out of town on High House, across 55 and onto Green level with the first major turn being White Oak Church. This was more than enough information for the Thorns who felt empowered to do their own thing right from the start.

GOG was now working with the stems to minimize and if possible close the gap on the Thorns. This was accomplished as the Stems raced their way down High House and reconnected with the Thorns as they sat at the light at highway 55. The stems were already feeling the pain of a faster than normal warm-up and made that known. “you were like a dog chasing a car” Mother Theresa scolded GOG for pressing the pace with the Stems. This had little effect on GOG as he continued to challenge the Stems to remain in close contact with the Thorns as the light turned Green signaling the beginning of a very fast run down Green Level to White Oak Church road.

At one point at the start of the run GOG taunted James Lavin “So you are at the back of the pack, but I know you are the one responsible for pushing the Thorns pace early on”. James only smiled and then asked GOG where the county line sprint would be so he could be properly prepared for the attack. GOG explained to James how the ride would unfold and where the county line sprint would take place. James nodded and slide slowly up the pace line.

The Thorns and Stems formed a single file pace line and blew down the road at 23 + mph. It was not until the climb leading to the turn onto White Oak that the group would again splinter. GOG was in the middle of the pace line as they made the right onto White Oak. As he looked up he saw Capn Carbon pulling off the front of the pack and sliding back looking for GOG. “OK were do we go again” Capn asked in a manner that suggested the Thorns were now ready to get down to the business of riding fast.

GOG, knowing Capn would not be able to recall all the details of the route, provided key phrases that would make sense to Capn and provide just the right amount of detail so he would not make a wrong turn at the front of the Thorns pace line.

Remember GOG had already provided the entire route information to all the riders as they waited at the start in the brueggers parking lot. GOG knew that several of the Thorns already had a solid understanding of where they were headed, and any one of them was capable of leading the way. “Turn left at the end of this road, at the strawberry patch head to Martha’s chapel, then we will regroup at the Lystra Gas Station”, “ I will sweep” explained GOG.

In a puff of dust Capn Carbon was back to the front of the Thorns pace line. The ride had finally begun for the Thorns. The Stems were in recovery mode having ridden out of town at speeds rarely dared by a Stem for any length of time.

White Oak is not an easy stretch of road. The downhill required a great deal of concentration with traffic in and out of the Tobacco Trail path and parking lot, along with vehicles on the road. The downhill comes to its end around a sweeping curve that pulls momentum out of the equation. The rider is then left to tackle the long pull up the other side, finishing with a stop sign at the end of White Oak. This hill has several challenges as it forces those wanting to not be gapped to push hard only to then have to face the sprint to the county line, around the next corner.

GOG and the Stems regrouped at the end of White Oak, rested, and then elected to NOT participate in the sprint to the County Line. The Thorns however pressed the pace from the start of White Oak, down and up the hill, thru the left turn onto Luter Shop, followed by an immediate sprint to the county line. The Thorns did not slow down there and were clocked with Sonic Boom in the lead pulling the pace line at 32 mph up to the Strawberry patch.

The Stems were happy to press on at 19 – 21 mph along these same sections of road. GOG used that time to work with Kaleo on Drafting techniques. Kaleo has never ridden in a pace line before and GOG was explaining the virtues and challenges of a pace line. Kaleo then experimented in drafting using GOG to draft off of. Kaleo was amazed how much wind GOG could block for him. GOG and Kaleo continued to work together practicing the art of Drafting. This continued all the way to the end of Martha’s Chapel. “So what do you think about drafting” asked Todd to Kaleo. “It was great, however there was a stench of OLD MAN” Kaleo replied with a smile. “NICE” replied GOG. All enjoyed Kaleo’s humor, and all agreed that there was a stench of OLD MAN in the air.

After all the laughing subsided GOG suggested due to the heavy traffic on Farrington the group should form a single line for the push up to the Lystra Gas Station and the frist planned rest stop.

Todd took the lead and pulled the group all the way to the rest stop.
At the Lystra Gas Station the Thorns were already itching to head on out. “We have been here for well over 20 minutes” Capn barked at GOG. “I have to get back and I am taking a couple others with me”, “We are only doing Big Woods once and then taking 64 to Wilsonville and back in from there” Capn went on to explain. GOG took this information in and looked at the Thorns to assess their willingness to stay with the plan or willingness to adjust as suggested by Capn Carbon. “Who feels the need to do Big Woods twice, raise your hands” GOG asked the Thorns and Stems. No hands went up. “COOL, lets all follow Capn’s lead and do Big Woods to the end then turn towards Lake Jordan on Highway 64 and regroup at Wilsonville”.

“I am going to go with you” said Heidi. “Me too” announced Jennifer. By then the Thorns were already headed out onto the road missing two of its members.

As the Stems continued their planned rest stop Todd McBride purchased two large cold waters for the Stems to use in topping off their water bottles.

Kaleo was starting to show signs of a BONK. GOG can recognize this due to his own many BONKING episodes over the years of biking. GOG is probably the most experienced BONKER in the group. GOG made note to keep an eye on Kaleo.

Kaleo had elected to do the longer Saturday ride for the first time. He had been riding with the Roses and was ready to challenge himself to extra miles. Unfortunately for Kaleo not only would he be challenged to extra miles, he was also being subjected to a stronger than normal pace by this group. All the stems were feeling the effects of a much faster start and continued strong pace to that point in the ride.

Kaleo did not complain and jumped into the middle of the pack as they headed out for Big Woods. Once on Big Woods each rider chose their own speed to survive the undulating landscape. Those pushing ahead included Todd McBride, Jennifer Omlor, Marianne, and Heidi. Not far behind them were GOG, Kaleo, and Mother Theresa.

All made it safely to the end of Big WOODS. After a short break to allow traffic to pass on Highway 64 the group headed out across 64 and over Lake Jordan towards Willsonville. GOG took the pull position with all others single file on the shoulder of highway 64. The wind was making every effort to hold the riders back adding additional challenges to the climb out of Lake Jordan and up to the gas station in Willsonville. GOG pushed hard against the resistance of the wind and hill combination, he was followed closely by Heidi, and Marianne until Marianne announced they had dropped the pack. GOG did not slow “We will wait for them at Willsonville” he shouted as he pressed on. Both Heidi and Marianne sat up in an attempt to regroup with the pack.

Once at Willsonville the group found Sandy Parrish there waiting to join the stems. “I was not ready for that” she exclaimed. “I kept asking who was leading the group, and no one would claim that role” she said. “I was not looking to ride at an average of 20+, and could not figure out who were stems vs Thorns” she continued. “I would have been happy to join you guys back at Lystra, but did not know who to follow”, she concluded. “I am sorry, I did not hear anyone other than these two asking to ride with the stems”, “We normally sweep the trail picking up anyone ejected off the back of the Thorns” GOG went on to explain. “Good, cause I am not looking to continue to do 23 mph to the finish” Sandy said in relief.

Kaleo was looking to be in full BONK mode now. He was quite and would bend over putting his head lower than his chest. “I feel for you, having been there many times” GOG said softly to Kaleo. “We will get you home”, he went on in an effort to comfort someone setting out on a death march. Todd Mc Bride was also recognizing the signs and assured Kaleo that everyone was there to assist him in getting safely home. This is one of the great things about this ride group. All have had rides were they fall apart physically for no real good reason. In most cases they have had someone in the group who takes it upon themselves to act as escort to the finish at whatever pace was required. When GOG BONKs he has to lie down and hydrate for a while. Sometimes this can take up to a half an hour, and yet there is always at least one other rider willing to hang with him. Today it was Kaleo needing that type of support. Todd McBride, Mother Theresa, and GOG all took turns riding with Kaleo as he heroically completed his death march. Like all death marches the pace would vary dramatically and is typified by speeds of 18 mph, that then become 16, then 14, then 11, then back up to 16, down to 13, then back up to 18. All BONKS result in the same sporadic surge and sputter pace. The Stems all rode with Kaleo in their sights not gapping the wounded rider too far. GOG adjusted to route to eliminate as many hills as possible. This adjustment put the riders into the Sears Farm subdivision and its slow shaded bike path.

Everyone, even Kaleo enjoyed the ride. Kaleo has a lot to be proud of having elected to almost double his normal Saturday ride mileage, and doing so at several miles per hour faster than his normal Saturday ride. Well done.

Special Thanks to Lori Brogden for leading the Roses on a smooth ride to Jordan Lake and back. Several of the Roses commented on how much fun they had.

Several folks went to Rally Point for Beer and food. Plan to join them in the near future for continued banter.

Sunday Sept 19th.

Those in attendance included:

Karen Robertson – Rose Budd – other nicknames are pending (Yard Sale, Slow Mo, Take a Bow, unbalanced…..) read on and vote on what your favorite would be.
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa
Kevin Smit – GOG (Glistening Older Gentleman)
Todd McBride
John Garrity – fresh off of his ½ marathon – looking for a recovery ride to work the lactic acid out of his legs.
Andy Brogden
Tonya Eney
Marianne Mahn - Earned a Nickname on this ride. Read on to learn what her name is and how she earned it.
Jae Brainard
Jim Coughlin – Domestique
Shawn Richardson – on his black and gold fixy – Killer Bee
Kiki – was found later on the route as she was riding towards the start.
Tim Deivinney – The Love Train – met as the pack left town.

The group was ready to ride together Roses and Thorns all as one group.

GOG asked if any of the Thorns expected to ride extra miles that day with the CSH ride group. This would influence the route he elected to use for the day. Those in attendance were comfortable with a 30 – 35 mile ride and had no expectation of riding extra miles.

The route planed by GOG would take the pack towards RTP and then the Tobacco trail. He would then add or eliminate miles based on how folks were doing and if there were any time constraints from that point on.

The group rolled out of the parking lot and slid onto High House followed by a slow sweeping turn into the Preston neighborhood. It was in the Preston neighborhood that Kiki joined in on the fun of the days ride. “KIKI” GOG shouted as he recognized her coming toward the group. She made an immediate U turn and found a nice comfortable spot in the pack to ride. GOG then slide into place to ask her if she was hoping to join CSH for some extra miles. “ I need 3 ½ hours of biking today” she responded. “Oh, so you will ride with us, then CSH, then go back out and ride some more” GOG said with a smile. Kiki nodded.
GOG know had addition information to help shape the route.

At the exit of the round-about the pack was directed to turn right onto Lewis Stevens. GOG was near the back of the pack when he recognized yet another rider. Actually it was a red pickup truck – signaling the arrival of “The Love Train” with his bike in the bed of the truck. GOG slowed and pulled over as “The Love Train” rolled down the passenger window. “I must have just missed you guys” Tim shouted thru the open window. “Find a place to park and join us” GOG shouted back. As this exchange took place Mother Theresa and Jae were taking notice and also recognized the arrival of “The Love Train”. Both riders slid back towards GOG to better understand the exchange that took place. “I will meet him and guide him on the route, You two try and slow the back for us” commanded GOG. With that both Mother Theresa and Jae pushed back towards the pack. The Love Train was seen pulling into the Library parking lot, with GOG diving in right behind him. The Love Train’s transition from driver seat to bicycle seat was one worthy of a full IronMan transition stage from bike to run.

It took no time at all for GOG and The Love Train to join the pack as they had been stopped by the long light at Lewis Stevens and Morrisville Carpenter.

It was from that light that Jae Braindard took full control of the group and the next several turns. “ I have a new way into RTP” she informed GOG. “COOL, Lead the way” he replied. “Ron and I found this a couple of weeks ago” she went on to explain.
The group was happy to follow and the new route kept them all off of the busy Miami Blvd. The group was riding very comfortably yet surprisingly fast. Lots of banter was detected as each rider kept their cadence as high as their sprits.

There was some confusion at the front of the pack near the turn towards Highway 55. GOG redirected those who needed it and all were now sitting at the light waiting to cross 55.

A Learning opportunity – Trust but VALIDATE.

GOG noticed the stop light to his right turn yellow, with this information he started to roll into the intersection. HE then glanced left to confirm cars had stopped. Yes they were slowing. He then glanced up at the stop light to the left and noticed it was still green. By now he was into the first lane of a 4 lane divided road. Without stopping to reason out why the cars coming from the left were asked to stop but those coming from the right were clear to go, GOG pulled a rapid U turn. All in the pack were still waiting for the Red Light facing them to turn green. Thank Goodness each rider took the responsibility to confirm their own safety prior to pushing off and clipping in.

It is way too easy to trust (Assume) another rider has all the information they need to proceed safely. It is always the individual riders responsibility to proceed only after they have confirmed it is safe for them. DO NOT be a Leming, be a safe rider. There are too many distractions to trust others for your own safety. Confirm it is safe for you.

The group did make it safely across 55 and up the next hill. Here again GOG made a poor move into the next intersection. He once again found himself forced to make a last second adjustment resulting in a U-Turn due to a car that was not making a turn GOG expected them to make. Again the pack was wise enough to wait to confirm the cars full intention.

The group now moved thru the left turn and towards Okelley. “you going to turn prior to Okelley and use the bike lane?”, “If you turn early we will avoid the busy road” Jae advised. “Great idea” GOG responded. Top Rookie was already on down the road riding solo towards Okelley and past the next turn just discussed. GOG smiled to himself knowing that Top Rookie had already been told were the group was headed, and could figure out how to find them even though they turned earlier than he had anticipated.

The pack rode though the neighborhood on its bike lane and enjoyed the limited traffic vs that they would have had to deal with on Okelley. The pack exited the neighborhood as the road met Okelle. To the left a lone rider was observed headed towards them on Okelley. It was Top Rookie who had easily figured out what the pack had done.

“I got to PEE” cried Marianne. “There are bushes right there” Killer Bee pointed out.

With out delay Marianne bolted to the bushes, squatted down, and completed #1 in the Bush. All riders diverted their eyes to provide Marianne that extra degree of privacy. Then from somewhere in the bushes a squeaky voice was heard “I hope there are no SNAKES” . Like magic she was back on her bike having been quick to take care of her biological need. This event is worthy of a nick name. From this ride on Marianne will be known as “#1 in the Bush”.

“I have a better way to get to the Tobacco Trail, Only need to be on Okelley a short way” Jae was happy to announce. “Lead on” GOG commanded.

The pack followed Jae as she introduced the group to a smooth quite country road. This section of road had a deep down hill followed by a short steep up hill prior to the left turn onto the Tobacco trail. The down hill was quick and very fast with GOG hitting 34 mph on his fixed gear bike. Legs really spun on that down hill.

The tobacco trail was slow and ridden with great control as the riders all shared that real estate with runners, walkers, bikers, and dogs. At the end of the paved section the pack slowed and bunched up as each rider used their balancing skills to inch through the limited space provided at the gate.
CRUNCH, GRIND, TINKLE, THUD.

GOG looked back to see what the noise was all about.

He recognized Karen (Rose Budd) lying under the bar of the gate. Images of a biker Limbo came into view. Karen has performed a perfect slow motion solo fall on 75% of the rides she has been on with the group. Each of her falls has occurred when the group is slowing or virtually stopped. She is getting so good at this technique we are all are now expecting a bow at the end of her slow motion fall performances. Karen already has one nickname, but there is no reason she can not have another. She would not be the first in the group to earn multiple nicknames. Other Nicknames that might come to mind for her include “YARD SALE” that is what it is called when a snow skier tumbles down the slope leaving skis, poles, hats, gloves, sunglasses along the trail. Then there is the possibility of “Slow Mo” for her epic Slow Motion solo falls. Or, maybe “Take a Bow” for her continued Emmy crash performances. There is always the obvious nickname of “UNBALANCED” which is a fitting nickname for those who struggle on the bike when the wheels are not acting as gyros due to their slow rotation at slow speeds, and there is also the unbalanced Mental condition that may or may not apply.

Next time you ride with the group Let GOG know your vote. OR leave a post to this Blog Entry with your vote. GOG thinks all are viable and interchangeable.

GOG was now already planning the second half of the days route. He was assessing the mileage and average speed to that point in the ride, who was in attendance, how could he challenge the Roses and Stems, how could he keep the pack together, how can he get Kiki to a point in the ride were she could jump onto CSH has it was coming out of town.

GOG had already considered all this, and even at the start considered a longer route then what was suggested.

“Mount Pisgah, then Martha’s Chapel and on home from there” GOG shouted with delight. “You Bastard”, “My wife already hates YOU” giggled Top Rookie (Karen’s Husband).

GOG launched towards Mount Pisgah with several others on his heals. Several others were still crowded around “Slow Mo”, “Unbalanced”, “Yard Sale”, “Take a Bow”. They were all concerned about her condition, and were applying bandages to her skinned knee and elbow. She had also strained her back and was not prepared to do extra miles let alone extra hills. Mother Theresa and Jae both instantly designed a new route that would eliminate the hills of Mount Pisgah and reduce the mileage by 7 – 10 miles keeping it within the advertised distance for the day.

GOG continued on his planed course knowing he would need to circle at the turn onto Mount Pisgah to determine the willingness of others to follow his lead.

It did not take long for him to recognize his leadership skills were lacking in comparison to Jae and Mother Theresa who had demonstrated far greater concern for the downed rider than he had.

“We are going to the gas station at the end of New Hope, and then back to the finish” Mother Theresa and Jae said in a taunting tone as they and others swept past GOG.

The split took place at Mount Pisgah and New Hope. Those electing for hills and extra miles and higher speeds included: Top Rookie, Kiki, Killer Bee, Todd McBride, The Love Train, Domestique, and GOG. Others voted loudly as to whom were the true leaders of the pack, Mother Theresa and Jae won that vote 8 to 6

Those electing to do extra did not look back. The pace increased the banter remained high as did the spirit of the ride. “Some recovery ride’ Barked Todd. Todd was realizing he was on target to complete close to 90 miles in two days at speeds well above his comfort zone. Well done Mr. McBride.

The group remained close with Killer Bee setting the pace all the way to Lake Jordan. It was there that the group turned left onto Farrington and the section of road nicknamed “Kevin’s Crawl” . Killer Bee was the first thru the turn, however he checked up and circled out of respect for Domestique, and GOG. Domestique was working to close the gap on the pack, and GOG was expected to take the pull position on “Kevin’s Crawl”. Shawn (Killer Bee) was willing to support both those events. Once the pack was back in tact GOG began his slow acceleration up “Kevin’s Crawl” cresting the climb at well over 21 mph. “Nice Pull” Kiki said with respect to the old man in the lead position.

The group rode strong the length of Holland Chapel with Kiki saying her goodbyes to the Thorns and Roses as the CSH pack past in the opposite direction. The rest continued the push towards home as they past the Strawberry Patch, the county line, and onto the left turn towards Nicole’s Roller Coasters. Shawn (Killer Bee) led the group thru the last few miles to the finish back at the Brueggers parking lot.

This splinter group pushed the distance past the planed 35 miles finishing with 41 miles.
Another great Recovery Ride.

End of August Bike Rides

2010-09-02T22:20:00.000-05:00

August 28 Saturday - Lynch GOG

72-78 miles for the Thorns

54 miles for the Stems

28 miles for the Roses.

Another large turnout even with the threat of a long hilly ride for the Thorns, and Stems.

Those in attendance included:
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie
Kevin Smit – GOG
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa
Todd McBride – Bonk Buddy. (Got his name during last Saturdays ride – performed a perfect GOG style Bonk).
Ron Clanton – Just Ron
Tracy Clanton – Rose Pedal
Jen Serino – Slow Jen Fizz
Kathy Blum
Dennis Heffernan
Kaleo Ballard – first time riding with the group.
Suzy Nezbit
Keith Boswell
Jae Brainard
Ann Munn
Cindy Avrette – first time riding with the group
Sondra Velachnso
Joe Pittman – Immortal Man
Shawn Richardson – Dessert Flower on his white fixy with new white wheels and spokes.
Paul Miller
Jim Coughlin - Domestque
Lori Brogden
Andy Brogden
Jessica Holland – Has a new nickname – read on to find out what it is and how she got it.
Jim ????? - sorry DUDE I fail to remember your last name.

The Roses were the first to leave the parking lot with Jae and the Clanton’s anxious to lead the Roses on an enjoyable ride that would include areas of RTP, the Tobacco trail, Mount Pisgah, and back to the finish thru the Sears Farm neighborhood. Ten riders joined the Roses ride.

GOG was still working to hand out cue sheets to all those interested in either the 72 or 54 mile planned route. Normally cue sheets are not provided, however due to the extra long route for the Thorns, and the fact that the route was headed onto roads rarely traveled by the group, GOG had produced cue sheets. This was his attempt to allow the Thorns to blast on ahead as expected and also allowed for everyone else to find their way home if the pack was to splinter severely due to all the Hills peppered along the route. Oh did he mention lots of hills and 72 miles?

On the cue sheets GOG provided for opportunities to short cut the miles if desired. So the 72 miler could be short cut producing the 54 mile route and the 54 mile route could be short cut producing a 40 - 45 mile route.

The Thorns (and Stems) left the parking lot late due to GOG’s attempt to make sure everyone who wanted a cue sheet had one. The route created confusion right from the start as it was designed NOT to leave the parking lot as usual. GOG had to turn the pack 180 degrees even before the first revolution of the pedals. As the Thorns jumped out onto HighHouse several folks were still working to clip in, or address a chain that had already jumped off of the chain ring. All Ready the pack was split. Top Rookie, and Immortal Man worked together to slow the Thorns allowing those still stuck in the parking lot to get out on the road and back into the pack. Great situational awareness from those two ride leaders. Just as the pack was all together again Immortal Man raced to the front of the pack to inform all that there was yet another chain issue. Top Rookie held the pack up at the next turn while GOG swing back to see if those trailing were ok. Not to worry the issue had resolved quickly and the 3 trailing riders were already headed towards the turn onto Maynard.

The Thorns were already wondering what they had gotten themselves into with the first mile taking far too long to accomplish. The Day’s delays did not end there.

The pack was now on Maynard headed for a turn that would put them onto Lake Pine and the first set of hills. GOG was trailing the pack as he was monitoring others who were slow to accelerate at each of the lights encountered along the way. The Thorns are all wired to smell a yellow light and jump onto the pedals at the first sign of green. Others are still drinking water, or visiting, or not interested in blasting thru green lights or around tight turns, or just not as situationaly aware as the Thorns. This difference in attitude/purpose of ride, always generates a gap in the pack as they work their way out of town.

The Thorns missed the turn that would put them onto Lake Pine as the route and associated cue sheet recommended. GOG and the others made the planed turn and were now waiting at Lake Pine for the Thorns to catch up. Yes GOG and the others had taken a slightly shorter route to Lake Pine and its expected hills. Those riding with GOG elected to push on towards the Hills on Lake Pine. He elected to turn the opposite direction to ensure the Thorns were not waiting for him and those that had been trailing.

The Thorns were not waiting and had figured out what had happened. They had missed the turn, GOG and the others had taken the turn, and all would meet up again on Lake Pine. They were correct.

Lake Pine proved to be an early challenge in keeping the pack together. GOG had expected the splintering of the pack at this point in the ride due to the many challenging hills and stop lights.

Two riders were already working overtime to match the pace and respond to the pressure of the hills. ne of those was Domestique. He is still riding a heavy Hybrid style bike. He has been forced to ride this tank ever since his roads bike was destroyed when a car hit him head on as he sat stopped at a stop sign. Thank Goodness he survived and not only is out riding with the pack, but had been able to complete his bike ride in Africa only weeks after being hospitalized by that accident. Look for Domestique to ride like the wind once he has a new light weight bike.

As the pack continued towards Apex on Lake Pine across 64 and onto Old Raleigh Road the split continued to widen. GOG was working to figure out who was planning to do the 72 mile route vs the 54 mile route. Several folks identified the need to get back do to time constraints and others had no desire to do more than 54 miles. Those looking for the full impact of hills and miles included: Immortal man, Top Rookie, Desert Flower (no water and on a Fixy), Keith, and Suzy. The remainder all planed for 54 or less miles. GOG was struggling with the 72 or 54 choice. The pace set by the Thorns suggested he had no business trying to ride with them, also those choosing to do the 54 mile route all acted unsure of the directions as provided by the cue sheet. GOG knew that Top Rookie and Immortal man both indicated they understood the 72 mile route as provided on the cue sheet. So he was leaning for the 54 mile route for several reasons/excuses. In the mean time Mother Theresa had been acting as sweep and found herself needing to adjust the 54 mile route to fewer miles due to time constraints from those riding with her.

Once on Tingen (Tingen Salt Flats) the Thorns demonstrated their need for speed. GOG was now fully encircled by those looking to do 54 miles at a more reasonable pace – not 21 mph average.

Top Rookie and Immortal man both dropped back to join the group riding with GOG. They both were measuring the distance and hills that lay ahead and made the wise choice to pace themselves for that challenge. The Thorns were now without a rudder or navigator. It was along Tingen Salt Flats that GOG recognized a solo rider heading towards them. “SUZANN” GOG shouted with glee. “Come Join us” he added. Suzann had planned to ride with the Thorns. She had received the email detailing the 72 mile route and it fit perfectly into her training needs. Susan is planning to do the full length Battleship to Beach Triathlon later this season. She is usually forced to ride solo do to her long distance requirements and was happy to learn she might have company on the days planed ride. She had already ridden ten miles in hopes of catching the group as it headed out of APEX on “Tingen Salt Flats”. Her timing was excellent. Suzann made the quick U turn and fell right into the middle of the pack.

The Thorns were racing full speed ahead with no concern as to what their next moves would be. The stems road along the “tingen Salt Flats” at a fast clip but very much in control of what the next turns were to navigate. Eventually the Stems rolled up to the turn onto Holly Springs New Hill road where they discovered the Thorns all waiting to confirm the next turn. GOG briefly provided the next set of turns and possible short cut options. The Thorns needed no more information and blasted on down the road. The stems found themselves motoring along at a strong clip as if to suggest they too were Thorns. Eventually the Stems settled down into a more realistic pace only to once again find the Thorns circling at the corner of Friendship and Holly Springs new Hill. “OK, anyone who wants to short cut the 72 and the 54 mile route can turn left here, otherwise both the 54 and 72 mile route continue together for another 10 -12 miles by turning right here” GOG went on to explain.

Now with the knowledge that the mile split is still to come all riders headed down the planed route by turning right onto Friendship followed by a turn onto Humie Olive and then a left onto New Hill Olive Chapel. The Thorns were seen one last time as they circled at Sharon Harris road in an attempt to make sure all who were planning on the 72 would be able to start out together. By this time GOG had made up his mind that he was not up for the 72 miles at 19 – 21 mph pace and elected instead to accompany those doing the 54 mile route. “72 straight ahead, 54 turn right here” GOG was shouting as he leaned into the right hand turn towards the 54 mile route. “You DOG” yelled Top Rookie who was sure GOG was planning to accompany him and the rest of the Thorns on the 72 mile route. That was the official split of the Thorns and Stems.

GOG slowed his pace in an effort to assess who had elected to do the 54 miller. He was shocked to see Slow Jen Fizz and Paul both electing to take the shorter route for the day. Both of those cyclists are strong THORNS and would have no problem pushing the pace for the Thorns. Clearly a time constraint was forcing their hand towards the shorter distance. They along with GOG, Jim, Jessica, and Domestique formed the Stems as they headed towards old US 1. As expected Slow Jen, Paul, and Jim set a stiff pace with GOG, Jessica, and Domestique falling quickly behind. At old US 1 Domestique elected to head straight back. He was tired of pushing his tank up and down the hills, and needed to get back before the rest of the group could finish the planned route. All said goodbye to Domestique as he set out towards home on old US 1. The rest of the stems turned West towards Bonsal and the Hills that would unfold on Old US 1.

All made it to the next turn onto Beaver Creek Road as a pack. The run down Beaver Creek is always fast due to its slow drop into Lake Jordan. GOG and Jessica were unable to sustain the pace as Jen pushed the pack towards 25 mph as they headed towards the rest stop in Wilsonville at highway 64.

GOG and Jessica were the last to arrive at the rest stop. GOG immediately purchased a large bottle of Gator Aid. He was already getting sick of drinking water and needed something flavored to quench his thirst and quite his stomach. Jessica purchased an energy bar and was seen devouring it in large noisy bites. Crunch, gulp, crack, munch munch munch was heard as power bar shrapnel was flying in all directions during her feeding frenzy.

GOG was assessing the need to finish the route as designed or to alter it to remove the remaining hills.

“Anybody care if I alter the route back and eliminate the hills” he asked the group.

“I will follow you” each was heard responding one at a time. It was unanimous all were voting to flatten the route.

After a brief rest to absorb the fluids and energy bars the Stems were challenged to mount up.

GOG led the pack across highway 64 and onto the turn at Holland Chapel. It was here that Paul and Jen split off from the pack to ride at a higher rate of speed which was more in their comfort zone. That is the curse of being a Thorn, Slow is impossible to do.

Jessica moved to the font of the remaining cyclists and started to press the pace. She was peaking for the second time on the days ride. “I am so glad we stopped to rest, I needed to eat something, I am feeling much better” she was saying with great excitement in feeling this renewed energy level.

GOG and Jim were both doing their best to hang on to Jessica’s wheel as she was closing the gap on Jen and Paul. The group continued to ride past the strawberry patch with Jan and Paul pulling away, only to be pulled back into the pack. The truth is they would slow down when they discovered they were leaving the rest far behind. At one point just before the county line Paul and Jen pulled up on the reigns and slid back into the pack. “Ah, I know what you are doing” declared GOG. “You are slowing down just so you can sprint to the county line and declare VICTORY over the rest of us” He continued.

“You called me OUT” Jen replied. And with that Paul and Jen had no problem taking the county line Victory.

As the pack formed again near the end of the run from the strawberry patch Jen was heard explaining “a Hot Tube would feel good right about now”. “A Hot Tube in the Summer is not as enjoyable as in the winter” added GOG. “Especially if you make Snow Angels before getting into the Hot Tube” he went on to explain. “Yea but you have to be Naked” added Jim. “The problem with that is when I do that everyone thinks I have just Stuck a flag pole into the snow” GOG said Tung in cheek. “Yea everyone sees two mountain tops when I make naked snow Angels’ giggled Jessica. “Twin Peaks” shouted GOG in a realization that a new nickname had been born for Jessica. Not only had she peaked twice on the days ride, but she claims to be identified with twin peaks when she makes naked snow angles in the snow.

Clearly the group was getting light headed and giddy as Glycogen levels were low , dehydration had set in, and lactic acid had built up into the cyclists systems.

The group was guided onto Green Hope High School road, into Sears Farm, and onto the bike trail that eventually deposit the riders under highway 55. As they slid into the tunnel GOG produced a loud Primordial Scream that almost knocked Twin Peaks off her bike.

The riders wound though the next neighborhood finally being deposited onto HighHouse. From here they rolled onto to the finish having completed 54 miles at a respectable 17.1 mph average.

It was learned several hours later that the Thorns were unable to complete the route as designed and elected to back track by turning around at the 40 mile mark. They ended up with a 78 mile ride along with many stops for the Stems, and some confusion around Highway 42 and its construction. There was no lack of hills to add to the days challenge. There was some discussion about lynching GOG for designing the 72 mile route and then bailing on it to do the 54 miler.

Stand-up Sunday August 29th.

Those in attendance included;
Kevin Smit – GOG
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa
Todd McBride – Bonk Buddy
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie
Karen Robertson – Rose Bud
Jim Coghlin – Domestique
Andy Hartsfield
Joe Pitman – Immortal Man
Lee Duncan – Sonic Boom (riding a hybrid bike – and stood off the saddle the entire ride – what a way to get a solid workout while riding with the Roses)
Jae Brainard
Mary Ann Feggan
Sophie White
Jessica Holland – Twin Peaks
Marianne Mahn – first time with the group.

The days ride was announced as 30 – 35 miles at a 15 mph pace.

All would work to ride together and were anticipating a recovery ride in comparison to Saturday’s long hilly ride.

GOG was riding his Fixy and that always means limited hills for the route. Not only that he had brought the wrong biking shoes. He had his road biking shoes that interface to LOOL pedals. The Fixy has pedals that work on one side without clips and on the other side work with SPD clip system. So he was forced to ride the fixy with the NON Clip side of the pedals and had to use the only other shoes he had which were his sandals.

The pack rolled out of the parking lot and onto HighHouse with Todd (Bonnk Buddy) pulling ahead of the pack. He must have recovered from last Satruday’s ride when he performed a perfect GOG like BONK. The other cyclists formed a single file as they worked their way to the right turn into the Preston neighborhood. Once in the neighborhood the group clumped together with lots of chit chat taking place. Sunday Rides tend to be far more social than Saturday rides. Mother Theresa was riding her old school 1979 custom built steel frame bike. GOG had just put new tires on it in preparation for her using that bike on the MS150 ride. Mother Theresa was unaware that GOG had pinched 3 new tubes in the effort to put on the new rear tire. The tube that was currently on that wheel was new and had held air all night long. SUCCESS finally after 3 pinched tubes. The pack rolled thru all the turns and stop signs announcing to each other the area was CLEAR for all to follow. Just as the pack began the first short climb of the ride, GOG looked down at Mother Theresa’s rear Wheel to inspect his previous work. “Your rear tire is low” he announced in disgust. Top Rookie was quick to chime in as well and confirmed that the tire did indeed look low. “You are done for the day” barked GOG at Mother Theresa. He made that snap decision knowing how difficult the new rear tire was to remove and put back on the rim, and he had NO confidence that he would not pinch Yet another tube. Without hesitation Mother Theresa pulled out of the pack and headed back to the Brueggers Parking lot. Her total mileage for the day was 3.5 miles.

Within 20 seconds of Mother Theresa pulling out Marianne threw the chain off her front chain ring. Immortal Man was quick to respond and was already completing the task of replacing it as GOG rolled back towards them to see what was needed. Immortal man had finished the chain replacement maneuver was was already hammering up the hill. This left both Marianne and GOG starting from a dead stop and facing the climb up towards Davis both in a heavy gear selection, and with no momentum to assist them on the climb. GOG had no choice but to stand and throw all his weight into several slow revolutions of the pedals. Marianne was quick to shift gears to a more appropriate ratio, and had no problem climbing the hill.

All made the light at Davis and onto the Round About signaling the end of the neighborhood streets and the beginnings of the less traveled back roads out of Cary. The pace at this point was brisk for a Sunday Recovery ride and had Mary Ann and Jae both were found riding some small distance behind the pack. No one waited as GOG pointed the way and all yelled Clear as they swung into the right hand turn onto Lewis Stevens. Mary Ann an Jae had no chance to close the gap, and the pace from those in the lead was now more aggressive than earlier.

Prior to the start of the days ride GOG and Jae had discussed a potential route that included many of the roads normally traveled by the ROSES with an additional run down to lake Jordan typically done by the Stems. A Hybrid route that would provide hills, bike trails, fast run down Martha’s Chapel, and a nice cool down back into town putting the mileage at the top end of 35 - 40. GOG was comfortable that Jae had a solid understanding of the route but he still kept a close eye on the two in his mirror.

The light at Lewis Stevens and Morrisville Carpenter is a long red light that is impossible to change to green without a car sitting on one of the sensors. The pack waited and waited. GOG suggested they would all have to run the red light when it was safe to do so. This delay allowed Jae and Mary Ann to regroup as the pack rolled safely thru the red light. Jae then raced to the front of the pace line to have a word with GOG. “You guys go on, Mary Ann and I will ride together, we are OK” she said with a calm informative voice. “Cool, you guys doing the same route?” GOG asked. “Not sure, might short cut if needed” she went on to say calmly and confidently. GOG thanked Jae for the information and wished them a fun safe ride. Jae immediately coasted back to the end of the line and she and Mary Ann drifted off the back. Jae was supporting the spirit of the rides making sure no one is dropped and no one rides alone. Jae is one of the many leaders the group can count on to keep that spirit alive.

Bonk Buddy was in full control of the pace and the directions as he led all riders across Davis drive and the turn onto Church street. Todd (Bonk Buddy) was able to remember those turns having done this section of the route a couple of Sunday’s ago. Bonk Buddy might find himself soon becoming a ride leader as he is demonstrating his ability to remember the many roads and routes the group utilizes. In 3 short weekend rides he already knows more about what turns to use on the ride than Capn Carbon does after his 5 seasons riding with the group.

The entire pack was still in conversations as they rode relaxed behind the confident leadership being demonstrated by Bonk Buddy. Sonic Boom and Immortal Man, both solid Thorns on any given day, were participating in the light chatter as they made sure to fit in with the days pace and attitude. YES Sonic Boom had not yet sat down on the bike seat, looking very comfortable as he stood on the pedals.

Just as Killer Bee has set a trend to ride A FIxy, Sonic Boom might be setting a trend to ride the entire ride standing up. Maybe there will be a STAND UP SUNDAY Ride announced soon. To make things more interesting the group could try a NO SHIFTING STAND UP SUNDAY ride. This would emulate a Fixy, although the riders would be allowed to coast – not a true fixed gear, but do the entire ride out of the saddle. Hmmmmm.

Better Yet only the THORNS would be asked to perform those tricks. This might allow the Thorns and ROSES to ride together more often as a group…….

The group next found themselves out onto Miami Blvd headed towards Durham and RTP. GOG was now back in the lead position and working to find a break in the traffic to guide the pack across the traffic lanes and onto a left hand turn at Hopson road. The line of traffic was heavier than anticipated, and the line of cyclists were strung along the right hand lane. GOG elected to direct the pack into a right hand turn, only to make a U turn around a median and rolling to a stop light that would assist in getting all safely across Miami Blvd. A green light parted the auto traffic allowing the cyclists to cross over Miami and onto quieter, auto abandoned roads. The smooth run down Hobson had the pack once again riding clumped and in conversation. Todd was once again in control of the pack with Domestique close by his side. GOG only had to directed those two to lead the group nto a left hand turn onto Lewis Stevens, and the right onto Kit Creek.

Kit Creek presents 3 challenges, a Rail Road crossing, a long red light at highway 55, and a short steep climb once across the highway. This challenge is then added to as the pack swings left onto Alston and its two climbs up to Okelly. Everyone did a solid job of meeting those challenges and having done so they all rolled right onto Okelly. Once on Okelly Top Rookie slowed the pace down to ensure all were accounted for as he set up the pack for the short run to the turn onto the Tobacco trail. As the group closed in on the Tobacco Trail GOG was heard shouting “Tight left turn, narrow entrance, Slow Down”. All heeded the warning and the group slid thru the gate and onto the shaded paved multi use tobacco trail. The group slowed to a pace that would accommodate for walkers, runners, small kids on bikes, and dogs on leashes. Each rider also worked to form a single file without being directed to. This allowed all to share the limited width of the Tobacco trail. The short ride on the Tobacco trail was enjoyed by all and may become a staple on Sunday rides. At the end of the paved section the pack was guided onto New Hope Church and pointed west towards highway 751. “Stay Straight all the way to the gas station at 751” GOG shouted to those already setting the pace.

At the gas station the group took a needed rest. Water was purchased and passed around to top off water bottles, bathroom facilities were utilized, and power bars were consumed. Joe (Immortal Man) did not stop to rest. He had a time constraint and elected to head back down New Hope Church Road and on into the start finish. No one else was ready to head back so Joe went SOLO. Joe rides a great deal on his own, knows all the roads in the area, and let it be known he would be just fine. Still does not feel right to have folks ride alone. All waved goodbye as Immortal Man blasted back to Cary.

Now rested and watered and fed the pack was directed out onto Highway 751. “There will be lots of traffic, they will be going way fast, just be prepared” GOG informed the group. All riders stayed as far right as was safe while coasting fast down the back side of each hill, followed by an attack to maintain speed up the front side of the next hill. Martha’s Chapel was the next turn and each rider checked into the turn one at a time. It did not take long for all to be accounted for. Marianne, Sophie, Jessica (Twin Peaks), Lee (Sonic Boom), and Todd (Bonk Buddy) all set out to make the fast run down Martha’s Chapel to Jordan Lake. They were followed quickly by Jim (Domestique), Andy, Rob (Top Rookie). GOG, and Karen (Rose Bud) elected to ride at a pace worthy of a Sunday Recovery Ride they held back to only 23 miles per hour down to the lake.

GOG eventually met the group at the end of Martha’s Chapel. All were giggling with delight having just produced a new land speed record for themselves while on a bicycle. GOG took back the reigns from the group and directed the riders to make the climb up “Kevin’s Crawl”. This is a long slow climb away from Jordan Lake and Martha’s Chapel towards Highway 64. GOG enjoys slowly increasing his speed as the hill unfolds on this section of pavement. On this days ride he crested the climb at 20.5 mph.

He was later found circling at the left turn onto Holland Chapel. This turn marks the return route back to Cary. It is from here that the riders later find themselves at the strawberry patch, Luter Shop, and then the edge of Cary. The ride was already proving to be longer than originally communicated at the start of the ride. GOG was recalculating the distance and shared with the group that they will all likely end up with a 40 mile ride at the end of the days effort. Some riders had already figured this out for themselves and were not surprised. Some became excited with the idea of a longer ride. Some quietly contemplated the realization that this would be the longest ride they had ever completed on a bike. Still others were calculating the total mileage they would have completed for the weekend and the week. And still others were assessing how much energy that had left to complete the task.

The ride towards Cary was quiet in comparison to the ride out of Cary. The pack was beginning to splinter as some riders were pumped up while others were beginning to suffer. GOG managed to get the group to hold up and rest in some shade Just past the point were Luter Shop changes its name to Morrisville Parkway. While resting and waiting to regroup, the pack was approached by a lady runner. “Is everything OK, I lived just over hear and can get help if needed” she was kind enough to ask. “Na, we are fine” GOG replied. Then after a short pause “Do you have Beer in your fridge?” he asked with a smile. “Not yet” she replied as she danced across the road on her way home. Top Rookie gave GOG a High Five for asking for Beer from a perfect stranger on a Sunday Morning ride. Just as that exchange ended GOG recognized Jim Palistrant riding solo as he was headed back towards Cary on his Sunday Morning bike ride. This was then followed by GOG recognizing and shouting out to Doug (Rumble Strip) Augustine, and his wife Sheila who were just beginning there Sunday Morning Bike ride.

Thorns and Roses are all over the place.

After the pack was back together and the short rest was completed they headed out to finish the last 9 miles. These last miles took them onto Green Hope High School Road. It was here just before the turn into The Sears Farm subdivision that Domestique had major leg cramps. Top Rookie, and Karen (Rose Bud) remained with him as he slowed to work out the cramps. GOG was also in the begging stages of having two thigh cramps and was gingerly applying presser to the pedals in an effort to keep the cramps from building worse. The others rolled into Sears Farm and waited in the shade at the next turn. GOG elected to slide back to see if all was OK. He did not get far when all three riders were found no more than a block away.

Now all back together GOG warned everyone about the sharp right turn onto the bike path located at the bottom of the next hill. Having shared that information he lead the pack cautiously down the next hill and signaled well in advance of the turn. “OH NO” cried Mariann as she raced past the entire pack as it was already half way onto the bike path. “HE WARNED YOU” someone from the group shouted.

GOG slowed the pace even more to make sure Mariann was not left behind, and to ensure that the group would not startle any others utilizing the path. This worked out to be a great cool down finish for the riders. All enjoyed the tunnel under highway 55 and celebrated that by shouting and screaming at the top of their lungs just to see how loud of an echo could be generated.

Back at the start finish the group found Theresa who had gone home, went grocery shopping, and was ready to let GOG know she DID NOT HAVE A FLAT. Oops.

The Roses completed 40 miles at a 16+ mph pace. Well done.

Hot, Humid, Hilly, and Head winds

2010-07-21T20:48:00.000-05:00

A triple BONK Day.

Saturday July 17th

Well it is the middle of July what else would one expect at the start of a long bike ride. The crowd grew slowly and finished with a flurry of cyclists readying themselves at the last minute.

Those in attendance included:

Riding with the Roses.
Ron Clanton – Just Ron – leading the group with his wife on the tandem.
Tracy Clanton – Rose Peddler.
Andy Hartsfield – welcome back to the group
Patti Lewis – Patti Melt (GOG and Mother Theresa have adopted your daughter Nicole).
Matt Fowler
Doug Augustine – Rumble Strip
Sheila Augustine – looking for a nickname.

Those riding with the Thorns.
Steve Cope – Capn Carbon
David Bridenbaugh – Mr. Bridenbaugh (he deserves the respect of his nickname)
Lee Duncan – Sonic Boom – back in from after recovering from a solid performance on BS&G
Jim Palistrant – the Instigator / antagonizer
Shawn Richards – The Green Flash

Starting with the Thorns and finishing as Stems.
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie
Ginni Davis
Ken Shuster
Seab Howard

Those starting out as stems.
Kevin Smit – GOG – BONKED 3 times on the ride- a bad day on the bike for this old man.
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa – she nursed GOG for the last half of the ride
Nicole Lewis – newly adopted daughter of the Smits. – She was kind enough to keep her new parents company on the ride.

GOG and Mother Theresa were immediately ejected to the back of the pack as the Thorns raced out of the parking lot and into the Preston Neighborhood. GOG was able to slowly pull himself up thru the line of cyclists in an effort to make sure he had communicated fully the planed route. The first stop was alongside the Clanton’s on their tandem. GOG and Just RON discussed the various options the ROSES had for their route. It was agreed that the ROSES would follow the Thorns planed route up to Okelly putting them on that same route for the first 13 miles. The Roses would then turn onto the paved section of the Tobacco Trail and head for Home giving them between 25 and 30 miles. JUST RON had full control of the ROSES and led them smoothly onto the impromptu route.

GOG then had a small window of opportunity to chase down the Thorns before they made a wrong turn in Preston. Normally all would turn left onto Hogans Vally way and then onto the roundabout. Today however GOG had planned a new exit from Cary for the days ride. GOG did not fully close the gap however MR. BRIDENBAUGH had done a stellar job of studying the route that GOG had provided in the ride announcement email. GOG could see Mr. Bridenbaugh marshal the Thorns and directed them to stay straight all the way to Morrisville parkway. Well done Mr. Bridenbaugh.

The only other point of confusion with the new route out of town was trying to determine were Little Drive was. GOG could not recall the name of the road as he made his attempt to describe the route.

“you know where we get onto Lewis Stevens in RTP” he said with frustration as he knew he was doing a poor job of explaining the next vital turn.

His frustration with himself was well founded as both Just Ron and Mr. Bridenbaugh made a move to turn the pack onto Morrisville Carpenter road, only to be stopped by GOG as he yelled “STRAIGHT”. This scene was reenacted again at MC Crimmon Parkway, however this time the Thorns where close to being out of ear shot. The Roses were just behind GOG so they had no issue with that intersection. GOG was soon dropped so dramatically that he had no hope of communicating other than by Cell Phone with Mr. Bridenbuagh. The next true turn was fast approaching. IT was MR. BRidenbaugh who again demonstrated great leadership skills as he elected to look back towards GOG to confirm the next turn. This allowed GOG to drift left and point to the next intersection. Mr. Bridenbaugh acknowledged by also signaling and letting the Thorns know they were in fact headed towards Lewis Stevens in RTP. That was the last time the Thorns, and Roses, and GOG were to ride together.

GOG slowed his pace now that he was no longer allowed to assist the Thorns with the planed route.

The Roses slide on up to meet GOG and all road very comfortably thru the Zero traffic of Lewis Stevens and Kit Creak roads. At the short steep climb up Kit Creak to Alston “GOGs” phone rang. He pushed hard to make head way up the hill, balance his bike, reach into his back pocket, and then deftly try to activate his Iphone thru a plastic Zip Lock baggy. It was Centralized Showing wanting to know if it was OK to let a Realtor Show a Listing that GOG has. “Yes, please do so, make sure you contact the owner and get their approval as well”. GOG had stopped at the intersection to complete the call and to replace his phone. The Roses rolled on thru the stop sign with Nicole being the only person showing concern for GOG being left behind. Thank You Nicole.

GOG found the Roses at the intersection of Okelley and Alston. Here he and Just Ron discussed the options the ROSES had regarding their return trip. It was agreed they would continue on the Thorns planned route up to the Tobacco Trail where Just RON would take full control of the way back home.

GOG, Mother Theresa, and their daughter Nicole would continue to sweep the planned route in hopes to meet with Thorns at the scheduled rest stop at the Lystra Gas Station.

A short goodby and save riding was exchanges as the ROSES made their left turn onto the scenic paved portion of the Tobacco trail.

Now Mother Theresa, GOG, and their adopted daughter were all alone to enjoy the hills and countryside of Okelly, 751, and stage coach. Mother Theresa was riding very strong on the hills and did not loose much as both Nicole and GOG pushed the pace on the up hill sections. Nicole was her normal bubbly self as she smiled brightly with the pure joy of someone happy with life and themselves. She would ride along and comment on the simplest things she observed on the ride. Taking notice and having such a large appreciation of all things around her is another of her truly marvelous character traits. Nicole had clearly planned for a ride of appreciation of all things living. She had brought a camera and was busy chronicling those things she witnessed along the route. She took pictures of the start of the ride, other packs of riders who were also enjoying the experience, horses, and butterflies. Nicole was a joy to ride with, her energy and attitude was contagious.

GOG did most of the pulling as the pack of three made their way down stagecoach and Farrington to the Lystra Gas Station.

At Lystra the Thorns were already headed out towards Cul de Lystra minus 4 from the group who had agreed to ride together as the stems. Those 4 were Top Rookie, Ginny, Ken Shuster, and Seab Howard.

GOG was beginning to feel the early stages of a BONK as he rolled up to the gas station and the shade it provided. GOG had anticipated a long hot hard day and had Hydrated for several days prior. He had also brought with him his Shot Blocks, Gu, and electrolyte drink. He had begun the consumption of the electrolytes and shot blocks early in an effort to ward off his notorious bonks. He had already consumed much of the two water bottles, so he purchased additional water for all to share. The Lystra gas Station is one that many cyclists utilize as a strategic rest stop on rides. Today was no expectation as cyclist came and went in packs and as individuals. Several of them knew GOG and the others and shared training stories and plans for upcoming cycling or triathlon events.

After a nice long rest in the shade GOG poured the remaining purchased water over his head as he readied himself for the climb up Lystra. Nicole was looking forward to the climb, Mother Theresa was quietly anticipating the challenge, GOG was just waiting to see how he would respond. Nicole and GOG completed the climb together, with Nicole happy to ride at a much slower pace than she was capable of as she kept a close eye on GOG as he pulled and tugged his way to 15/501. “We did that in 10 minutes” announced Nicole as if to suggest that it was a solid effort. GOG knew in his heart she would have been able to accomplish the same task in half the time, and appreciated her support, and encouragement.

Mother Theresa was not that far behind and seamed no worse for the ware upon joining the other two at the end of Lystra.

The group headed south on 15/501 straight into a ever increasing head wind. GOG was still working the front of the small pace line until the turn onto Mount Gilead Church Road. With little warning GOG was now into a BONK. No ability to push the bigger gears, and no hear rate left to spin the gears. GOG was beginning to hate the smell of water from the water bottle as his stomach would turn at the thought of consuming any more of that clear liquid. The electrolyte solution would instantly cramp his stomach so the water bottle containing that mix was not pulled from the cage that held it. Still head winds even after a change in direction, more hills – not steep – but relentless – unfolding one after the other. The sun was now so intense each uv ray was felt as it penetrated its way thru the sunscreen and into the very core of the body. With each penetrating ray the core temperature would rise generating a sensation of a pressure cooker on the stove as it cooks a head of cabbage. Nicole was now riding in the front unable to sustain the slower speeds GOG was generating. She instinctively recognized GOGs need to get in some shade and rest as she elected to turn into the gas station on the corner of Highway 64 and Mount Gilead Church Road. An unplanned stop at mile 32. GOG followed her lead and immediately searched for any cool breeze and shade he could find. It was Mother Theresa that directed him in his daze to the only available shade on the side of the building. GOG removed his helmet, du rag, and gloves and laid on the concrete in the shade. Nicole directed him to put his feet up to help him get the blood back to his head and heart. Mother Theresa purchased diet – caffeine free diet coke just to have something more palatable to drink. The group waited patiently there for GOG to recover enough to march on having only accomplished half the days planed route. He was determined to get thru the hills and miles in an effort to demonstrate to himself and to help Mother Theresa also demonstrate to herself that they would be ready for the Hills, Humidity, Heat, and Head Winds that will great them every day on RAGBRAI. As they rested there was a great deal shared amongst Nicole and her new parents. They learned that Nicole is headed to Germany in January to continue her PHD studies. Nicole is very excited and her parents will be sad to see her go so far away. The expectation is that Facebook and email will be utilized heavily in an effort to keep all informed on her efforts, and life in Germany. It was also realized that Nicole was the same age as Kassel. Then it also became clear that she possess the same character traits and sprit that defined Kassel in his short 16 years. She and he are kindred spirits.

Finally after 30 to 40 minutes GOG was able to stand without the risk of passing out. He steadied himself and slowly slid one leg over the top tube of his bike to ready himself for next 10 miles to the second Planned rest stop. The death march had begun. The ride down N. Pea Ridge, Seaforth, and Highway 64 was a reenactment of the previous 10 miles. GOG on the verge of a BONK, Nicole bouncing along joyful to be alive, Mother Theresa quietly confidently meeting the challenge of the route and the weather.

Upon arrival at Wilsonville the group encountered Susan McBee as she was 40 miles into a solo training ride. They discussed various options on best way for her to head home and get another 40 or so miles in. She was looking strong and did not show any signs of heat affecting her. Clearly she is training well for her upcoming events, one of which is the Beach to Battleship Triathlon. You GO GIRL. The group wished Susan a safe ride as she headed out for another 40 miles. Nicole made it known at that time that she had a time constraint and we had now put her unfortunately in a situation where she would have to leave her adopted parents. Rather than have her ride alone we encouraged her to call home so that someone could come and get her. She obeyed those wishes and made the call. GOG found shade, a breeze and again lay down to help reduce the sensation of passing out. They all waited for GOG to make a degree of recovery and for Nicole’s ride to arrive. Another 20 – 30 minutes were consumed as GOG worked his way back to consciousness. Nicole’s ride came as GOG was working to steady himself in a semi standing position. All said their goodbyes as Mother Theresa and GOG continued to meet the challenge of the planned route. The two rode together down Beaver Creek to the left turn onto Tody Goodwin, followed by the turn and hills of Olive Chapel. GOG had succeeded in planting some of the more challenging hills in the last 6 miles of the ride. Mother Theresa was there keeping a watchful eye on GOG as they slipped into Apex. The turn onto N. Salem signaled the last couple of miles till home. GOG was unaware of his surroundings as he rode past the planed turn onto Holt. He was slowly awakened from his stupor by a faint sound. “Hy ws tat r Trn” . What was that he heard.

“Hey wasn’t That OUR TURN”. As if slapped out of a coma GOG suddenly realized they had blown past the turn that would lead them home. Crap. Turn back. No. Keep going and make the next turn onto the other end of HOLT. GOG knew then he had been riding semi conscious for a while. “I completely missed the turn, I had no idea where we were” He mumbled back to Mother Theresa.

The turn onto Holt was met by Mother Theresa as a signal to take it strong back to the finish. She easily walked way from GOG who was struggling to stay coherent and could only keep thinking to himself. “She has left me, I am out of water, Please come back, I need some water”. How pathetic.

Mother Theresa sensed the disappearance of her husband and was waiting around the corner on Jenks Carpenter. “YOU OK” she asked. “Water” was the reply. GOG then spied shade on the side walk and without saying a word Climbed off his bike, carefully laid it in the grass, and then stretch himself out on the cool sidewalk.

The two quietly waited there for him to recover. As they did so several motorists would slow or stop and ask if everything was OK. GOG would provide a thumbs up and a week thank you to let them all know he was fine. One motorist pulled across the road into the oncoming traffic lane to check on GOGs situation.

Suddnely out of no where GOG heard the voice of an Angel. “Hey are you all right” . It was Susan McBee as she was on the last mile of her extra miles for the day’s workout. Susan has witnessed GOG in FULL BONK before and was alarmed to see him in that state yet again. “I can go and get the car, I am almost home and can get right back here” she went on to offer. “NO, Thanks anyway, we are so close to completing the ride, I just need a couple more minutes and we will be good to go” responded GOG in an effort to set Susan’s mind at ease. Susan continued to hesitate as she was struggling to help and at the same time trust that GOG was OK. GOG pulled himself and his bike up off the ground and readied himself for the last climb and associated last miles to the end. Only then did Susan leave the two to finish their ride. Just as the two rolled down the hill GOG’s Cell phone began to ring. GOG repeated the steps required to pull the phone and operate its functions thru a plastic bag. “Hello” he gasped.

“DUDE we are worried, YOU OK”. It was the voice of Top Rookie who had been waiting and WAITING and WAITING for Mother Theresa, Nicole, and GOG to arrive back at the start/finish.

“YEA, just about 2 or three miles out, Sorry I should have called and told you not to wait” GOG said realizing he had not thought about the others concerns. “GOT to go just headed onto the last ugly Hill” and with that GOG hung up on those who were concerned about him.

Mother Theresa set the pace up Carpenter Church road to High House. Once on High House GOG was feeling able to ride comfortably. He was pacing himself in with the traffic as a car pulled up along side. GOG detected the vehicle as it paced along side him. Upon further inspection he noticed the passenger window was down. “Why would someone with a new car be driving on a hot humid day with the window down, this is an air conditioning day, not a fresh air – window open day” he thought to himself.

GOG then looked deeper into the car to she DANE MCBEE at the wheel. DANE had a big smile on his face as he asked “YOU OK”. “YEA, BONKED HARD” replied GOG as the two rode side by side as if the team car was there to check on the status of their ride leader in the Tour.

What a great community of Cyclists we are blessed with.

Thank You McBee’s.

Mother Theresa and GOG rolled into the parking lot. All others had since left. The time was 12:40.

Total time on the road for these two was 4 hours and 40 minutes. Total biking time, moving not resting was just under 4 hours. They averaged 15.4 mph without stops.

Sunday July 18th.

Recovery ride for some. Another day to Hammer for the Thorns.

In attendance:

Riding with the Thorns –
Shawn Richardson – The Green Flash
Emil Velasquez – on his tri bike – training for several Triathlons
Kiki – ready to punish the Thorns – however she was not at the top of her form – was out the night before until 3 am. Ah Youth.
Rich Hunt – do not know if he intended to ride with the Thorns – no one knows what happened to him on the days ride.

Those in attendance –
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie
Karen Robertson – Rose Bud – possibly with a new/additional name of Billy Goat Gruff – read to find out why.
Laura Brogden
Andy Brogden
Ann Munn – named on her second ride with the group – learn her name by reading about her tactics of putting other riders into the railing – just like stock car drivers do.
Tanya Eney
Wendy Just – not the Gals in Gears Wendy – but the Wendy who does ride with the Gals in Gear. You will have to ask her about that since she is mistakenly identified to be the other Wendy.
Kevin Smit – GOG

GOG had arrived to the starting location having just dropped Mother Theresa off at the air port. Work was getting in the way of her Sunday Roses ride.

GOG was concerned for Emil prior to the start. Emil clearly had come to ride hard and ride far. He made it known he wanted a 3 hr ride. GOG looked at the group that had assembled to that point and Emil was the only Thorns in attendance. “DUDE, you may have to run up to CSH and ride with them to get the work out you are looking for today, The rest of us are planning a recovery style ride of 30 – 35 miles at a 15 mph average” GOG was explaining. Just then The Green Flash rolled into the parking lot, followed closely behind by Kiki. “OK we have our Thorns” announced GOG. He and the Green Flash then discussed the various route options to get in a solid 3 hour ride for Emil. The Green Flash once again steps up to lead the group. Thanks Shawn for graciously taking on that role.

GOG explained to the ROSES that they would be riding at a more reasonable pace, distance, and that he would work to limit the number of hills.

The pack was off with all riders headed toward the Yellow Barn just on the outskirts of the Preston neighborhood. The Thorns wasted no time getting to that location and beyond. GOG was looking for Rich Hunt to be waiting at the Yellow Barn to fold himself into the ROSES. No Rich. GOG was concerned that Rich had been swept up into the feeding frenzy generated by the Thorns and would be shredded later with no one to ride with. There was little GOG could do at that point as the Thorns were no were in sight. GOG then directed the ROSES to make the right turn onto Lewis Stevens and on towards RTP. Each of the riders in the pack rode smoothly at a pace that allowed for conversation. GOG was riding his FIXY and was worried that his tired legs, from the previous day’s brutal ride with multiple BONKS, would rebel. He too rode as comfortable as he could on a fixed gear bike. The route emulated the previous Sunday’s ride all the way into the edge RTP via Miami Blvd, Hopson drive, and Lewis Stevens. It diverted from last Sunday’s route as the pack was directed to make the right turn off of Lewis Stevens and onto Kit Creek. It was there that Laura and Andy elected to leave the group to meet a time constraint. They would chose to ride the same route from last Sunday on into the finish. All said their goodbyes and wishes for a safe ride. The ROSES had lost two of its pedals.

Those riding on under the leadership of GOG were now headed into some of the hilliest aspects of the days ride. It was on the hills of Kit Creek, Alston, and Okelly that Wendy elected to attack. She did not do her attack in the spirit of a THORN. A thorn would attack in an effort to punish others and shred anyone who would dare respond to the attack. Wendy attacked in the Spirit of a ROSE. The attack was meant only as a challenge to herself to improve her climbing ability. With each rise in the road Wendy would rush past all the riders in an effort to see how far she could push herself up the hill.

The pack enjoyed and encouraged Wendy as she perform attack after attack. “It is the only way one improves their climbing ability” Wendy was heard saying as if trying to convince herself of the benefit of the punishment she was placing on herself.

The group was directed to make the right turn onto Okelly and to look for where the Tobacco trail intersects that road. It was at the entrance to the Tobacco trail when we learn the true nature of Ann Munn and Karen Robertson (Rose Bud). The entrance to the tobacco trail is a sharp left hand turn with a narrow entrance flanked by posts that allow one cyclist at a time entrance to the path.

GOG had slid thru the post opening and was informing others of its narrow passage. As he was finishing his warning ANN and Karen were both lining up for the approach. Ann was slightly ahead of Rose Bud. Rose Bud checked up just enough to give Ann a clear shot at the opening. Ann took the advantage and slipped past the posts while Rose Bud was just overlapping Ann’s rear wheel in an attempt to lose as little ground as possible having to already perform a breaking maneuver.

Ann then drifted left taking Rose Buds lane away from her. Rose Bud accelerated in an attempt to use the slip stream effort to get the jump on Ann. Ann continued to shut down the lane for Rose Bud who was now being forced up against the fence. This maneuver is played out again and again in stock car racing. They call it a bump and Rub. Ann was demonstrating a well designed Bump and Rub maneuver. Rose Bud then utilized the same Head Butt maneuver performed by Mark Renshaw on this year’s Tour de France. It was a complete enactment of the race to the finish line on stage 11 of this year’s tour. The only differences were that Rose Bud (Billy Goat Gruff – for the head butting) was put all the way into the fence and Ann – (Bump and Rub) found herself on the ground.

The two apologized to each other, Ann picked herself and her bike up. She then removed her left shoe from its position still in the cleat and placed it back on her foot before mounting the bike. The rest of the pack had rode on ahead unaware of the tactics performed by these two ROSES.

The two rejoined the pack and all continued an uneventful ride down the length of the paved portion of the Tobacco trail. All were then directed to make the left onto New Hope Church road and into the area known as Cary Glenn. They then found themselves making a left turn onto the newly named Morrisville parkway (previously known as either Lueter Shop, or Green Level). They then make a quick right and left putting them onto Green Level Church followed later by the left onto Green Hope High School Road.

GOG asked Top Rookie to guide the group into the Sears Farm neighborhood as he was planning to ride near the back of the pack as sweep. Top Rookie did a great job getting all into Sears Farm, however he needs more practice making the correct turns to get folks thru the neighborhood and out the other side onto High House. On at least two occasions GOG was able to turn those riding with him onto the correct path while Top Rookie would take those riding with him past the proper turn. This brought great joy to GOG as he does like to play with those who ride on ahead as if they know what route GOG has in store for them, only to realize their mistake and ten having to race from behind to catch up with those on the true path.

All made it thru the days ride of 34 miles at a respectable 15.2 mph average.

Two names have been awarded to two riders (one of which now has two nicknames – keep an eye on her to see which rider she chooses to be Rose Bud or Billy Goat Gruff). Make sure you respect the position Ann has chosen to ride in the pack. If she senses that you may be trying to slip past her she may perform a Bump and Rub maneuver. These two riders have only been riding with the group for a very short time and have already established themselves with proper nicknames. It was a good ride.

While GOG and several Roses rested at the finish the Thorns arrived having complete the 3 hour ride for Emil. Both the Green Flash and KIKI stoped to spend time with the ROSES to visit. We learned that KIKI was taking classes to be a SCUBA Instructor. She learned that both GOG and TODD McBride are also SCUBA Instructors. Emil did not stop to visit he elected to continue his BRICK work out and headed out for a run. Got to LOVE the TRIASSHOLETES.