Traci gets a NEW BIKE
COPE FINISHES LAST.
Saturday March 22, 2008
An earlier start to allow for longer ride if desired.
Weather expected to be fantastic.
Those in attendance included:
Theresa Smit, Jae Brainard, Beth Gonzales, and Traci Clanton.
Traci came equipped with a brand new high end carbon fiber FELT road bike.
It was pretty.
These ladies were in high spirits and ready to ride a strong ride as the “Smell the Roses” participants.
Those representing the “Testosterone Riders” included:
Kevin Smit fresh off last weekends Birthday Ride, Steve (missing in action ) Cope, Steve Sparano, and Ron ( the hammer ) Clanton. The group was joined early in the ride by Todd Pechner.
Everyone but Ron, had assembled in time to sit and have a small coffee prior to the start.
Ron and Traci had already had their coffee before arrival. They also had already readied their bikes for the days ride. They did join the Kevin and Theresa as they ordered their coffee, and visited as the other riders slowly strolled in for the days ride. At 8:20 Ron jumped out of the chair and announced time to get ready. With out hesitation he headed out the door towards his already waiting bike. The group that had just assembled threw down their coffee as fast as they could swallow, gathered up their belongings and did their best to follow Ron out the door. TIME is something that is very exacting for Ron.
At 8:30 am the atomic clock Ron has built into his GPS system announced that it was time to head out onto the roads of West Cary.
Just as the riders mounted their bike Steve Cope announced that he maybe riding on a rear tire that was at the end of its life expectancy. He informed the group that one year on his tires is usually all he gets. With that the pack was off.
Today’s ride for the Testosterone riders had the expected charge from the start by Ron with Steve nipping at his heals. The pack of Testosterone riders easily regrouped as they swung into the Preston neighborhood. The Smell the Roses were already out of view as they took a more kindler gentler start to the days ride.
The Testosterone group wandered through the neighborhood as a tight group, easily climbing the small hills towards Davis drive. At the intersection of Davis drive the group encountered a solo rider heading towards the group. It was Todd. Todd had not gotten the email regarding today’s ride and was headed toward the start in the chance that the group would be riding. Luck had it that these riders recognized each other resulting in the pack growing by one additional strong rider.
Todd is training for a Sprint Series Tri-athalon on April 12th. His style of ridding is to attack often, pushing others and himself as he does so. This was going to be fun watching Ron, Steve ( the chuawa ) and Todd all taking turns attacking. The group remained calm up to the turn onto upchurch road. This is the long stretch of road that leads out of Cary past Green Hope High school. This is also known to the group as “Ron’s Pull”. Ron loves to hammer hard on the section. Today was no exception. Kevin was the first to make the turn onto “Ron’s Pull” road. Ron was directly behind Kevin through the turn. “OK Kev GO” Ron shouted. “I will not take away the honors, It is all yours Ron” was Kevin’s immediate response as he pulled out wide to let Ron explode on past. Ron took full control with an immediate surge. No one responded and the gap between Ron and the others grew quick. Kevin looked around and could see Steve Cope twitching with excitement, and Todd looking around as if to suggest we needed to attack. Just then the Chuawa jumped out of the saddle and in eleven quick revolutions of the peddles he was along side Ron, yapping and barking and nipping at his heals. Todd was a little slower to respond and took a look at the gap and made the decision to settle in to the pace being maintained by the rest of the group. A pace of 21 miles per hour is just fine. This trailing group then split again as Steve Sparano slowly fell off the pace with Todd torn between Jumping to the lead group, staying in the middle pack, or riding with his buddy Steve Sparano. Slowly Todd fell back to join Steve this left Kevin in no mans land, no one to draft off of and no way to close the gap ahead.
At the intersection of Fire Station Church Road the pack reassembled and held tight the full distance to Up Chuck hill. On the down hill section before the climb the pack scattered as each rider was able to gain speed at different degrees. Then it was Todd and Steve Cope who attacked the hill with Steve Cope the victor and Todd hot on his heals. This style of speed play continued through out the day’s ride with Ron, Cope, and Todd each challenging the others. Kevin and Steve Sparano worked to maintain a steady pace and draft when they could. The wind continued to develop as a factor as the day’s ride unfolded.
One item of note. The Yacht is no longer in its location at the corner of Holland Chapel and 751.. The product had been moved to the coast where they are finishing the final touches. Rumor has it that it sold for $2,200,000.00 . Yes it was a pretty boat.
As the group worked their way towards the start/finish the level of attacks lessened and the group settled into a tight single file formation.. Just as the group made the turn onto Green Hope School road Steve Cope sat up in the saddle and said he had broken a spoke.
The group slowed as all eyes were looking first at the front tire then rear in an effort to see the wobble that is expected from a broken spoke. No wobble. What was causing such a concern from Steve? A bubble was then detected on the side of his rear tire. The sow-up he was riding had just let loose and had the inner tube sticking out of the sidewall. Steve pulled up long enough to let some air out of the tire, and push the inner tube back into the confines of the sow-up as best he could.
This trick worked until the last long fast down hill of High House when the hissing sound signaled its last dying breath. Steve yelled at Ron to go on ahead and come back with his truck. The pack was about 1 mile to the end at that point. Ron rushed back and jumped in the truck to rescue Steve. We learned that Steve elected to continue his ride on the flat tire as he only had that last mile to finish.
The days ride had the Testosterone riders covering 36 miles at an averatge16.4 mph pace.
The Smell the Roses had increased their mileage today to include 27 miles at their respectable 13 mph pace. Job well done. The new bike worked great for Traci.
Easter Sunday
March 23rd.
A slightly later start due to colder morning.
The sun was out and the wind was already a factor.
Those in attendance included:
Theresa Smit and Jae Brainerd representing the Smell the Roses.
Those representing the Testosterone riders included:
Kevin Smit, Steve (slow poke - last place finisher) Cope, Tim Travitz.
The riders all layered on the cloths including leg warmers, arm warmers, and jackets.
The day was sunny but very cool with a stiff breeze.
The ride started out as all do by heading into the Preston Woods neighborhood and wound out to the turn at UpChurch road, also know as “Ron’s Pull” road. Normally the pack takes a right and heads towards Morrisville. Today however Kevin directed the Testosterone riders to make a left turn and head back towards the neighborhoods of Cary. Once at the intersection of Holt the pack was ready to turn right and head towards Lake Jordan, however Kevin again challenged the group to turn in the opposite direction. This new route had the riders pointed towards Apex and its busy streets. A right turn in the heart of Apex finally had the riders working their way out of traffic and onto the rolling (scenic) hills of Olive Chapel Road. This had the wind at the riders back as they worked their way from hill crest to hill crest with a brief stop for water at Olive Chapel and 751. Steve Cope was completely lost, but Tim knew exactly where they were. Kevin informed them that this new route was part of his Birthday ride route and he wanted them to see some of the scenery it provided. The group continued their trek westward towards the southern edge of Lake Jordan. A right turn at Olive Chapel and Todd Williams put the pack on track to intersect with Farrington south of Highway 64. A right turn on Farrington presented the riders with a near head on from the wind. It was clear at that point that they had been benefiting until that point from a substantial tail wind. Tim took the lead with Steve Cope tight behind. Kevin played with the gears working to find the one that would allow him to draft behind Tim’s strong pull into the wind. Within minutes Tim’s pull left Kevin pushing himself through the wind as he fell off the pace produced by the lead riders.
At the corner of Highway 64 and Farrington the group again consumed water as they waited for the traffic light to provide save passage across the busy highway. On the green light the group pressed into the wind and headed towards Holland Chapel. At Holland Chapel they would be turning directly into the wind and would have to face it head on all the way to the finish. They managed to maintain a respectable 15 to 16 mph pace into the head wind.
The group finished all together and had accomplished a 34 mile ride at an average pace of 15.6 mph.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Recovery Ride March 16th.
The day after.
Kevin arrived at Brugers to get his morning coffee to find Christy (Pinky) in line waiting on a latte. Kevin did not recognize her at first since she was NOT in Biking attire. Due to schedule conflict she elected to do her long run this morning rather than a bike ride. She stopped in for her Latte and to let Kevin know she would not be joining the Testosterone Team this day. As they sat and visited, they were joined by Tim who was dressed ready to ride. He however looked a little bedraggled.
“Hope you feel better than you look” snipped Kevin.
Tim informed the others that he had been sick for several days. This is unusual for Tim since he is not prone to illness (other than mental).
The group was slow to move and with coffee and Latte still to be consumed the clock moved past the starting time and on towards 9:30 am.
Tim was getting anxious as he suffers from over achiever syndrome, also known as “can’t sit down for fear I might get boreditus”.
So the group finished their beverages of choice, said goodbye to Christy, with Kevin and Tim headed for the parking lot to assemble the bikes for the days ride.
The day was starting off with a strong wind moving from Lake Jordan to the ride start location. The sun was out and the temperature suggested arm warmers and leg warmers were in order for the days ride.
Off the two Testosterone riders headed not knowing how far or fast the two were prepared to go. Kevin with weaker than normal legs, due to yesterdays longer ride, and Tim who was clearly under the weather.
Maybe wisdom would prevail and the riders would shorten the ride and slow the pace. They rode side by side with an occasional single file as cars approached from the rear. Not a lot of conversation, as each rider suffered through their own ordeal.
On the stretch along Fire Station Church road the group pushed against the wind at a respectable 20 to 21 mph. The climb at UpChuck proved to be a survival climb for both with speeds dropping as fast as heart rates rose. Decision time, do they go straight at the top of the climb or right towards Mount Pisgah Church road and its rolling hills?
“On right” was the suggestion from Tim, “then we turn left at Luter Shop and head for home” Tim continued with his directions.
“Not feeling good at all” he continued to explain.
“ I am Cool with that” was Kevin’s response.
Again the two Testosterone riders fell into a quiet state as they worked the peddles to propel them up the various climbs with brief down hills to bring the heart rate back in line.
The silence was broken by Tim who declared “You can do more if you want, I hate being THAT GUY who whips out” .
Kevin was quick with his response. “We all take turns being That Guy, In fact I am usually that guy on every ride”. “This distance is perfect for a recovery ride”. He continued.
Silence was now only disturbed by the wind in their ears, and the occasional whir of the rear cluster when coasting. They did not have the DEVIL TRI-BIKE on the days ride making all those possessed noises from yesterday’s ride. (read about that on the bday ride write-up).
The two riders elected to shorten the ride as much as possible by taking the route that had them cyclo crossing over the rail road tracks by Green Hope High School, and then taking the most direct route down High House and on into the finish.
A perfect ride for a recovering OLD man, and A SICK over-achiever.
The two will be able to log 21 miles at 16.2 mph average.
Kevin arrived at Brugers to get his morning coffee to find Christy (Pinky) in line waiting on a latte. Kevin did not recognize her at first since she was NOT in Biking attire. Due to schedule conflict she elected to do her long run this morning rather than a bike ride. She stopped in for her Latte and to let Kevin know she would not be joining the Testosterone Team this day. As they sat and visited, they were joined by Tim who was dressed ready to ride. He however looked a little bedraggled.
“Hope you feel better than you look” snipped Kevin.
Tim informed the others that he had been sick for several days. This is unusual for Tim since he is not prone to illness (other than mental).
The group was slow to move and with coffee and Latte still to be consumed the clock moved past the starting time and on towards 9:30 am.
Tim was getting anxious as he suffers from over achiever syndrome, also known as “can’t sit down for fear I might get boreditus”.
So the group finished their beverages of choice, said goodbye to Christy, with Kevin and Tim headed for the parking lot to assemble the bikes for the days ride.
The day was starting off with a strong wind moving from Lake Jordan to the ride start location. The sun was out and the temperature suggested arm warmers and leg warmers were in order for the days ride.
Off the two Testosterone riders headed not knowing how far or fast the two were prepared to go. Kevin with weaker than normal legs, due to yesterdays longer ride, and Tim who was clearly under the weather.
Maybe wisdom would prevail and the riders would shorten the ride and slow the pace. They rode side by side with an occasional single file as cars approached from the rear. Not a lot of conversation, as each rider suffered through their own ordeal.
On the stretch along Fire Station Church road the group pushed against the wind at a respectable 20 to 21 mph. The climb at UpChuck proved to be a survival climb for both with speeds dropping as fast as heart rates rose. Decision time, do they go straight at the top of the climb or right towards Mount Pisgah Church road and its rolling hills?
“On right” was the suggestion from Tim, “then we turn left at Luter Shop and head for home” Tim continued with his directions.
“Not feeling good at all” he continued to explain.
“ I am Cool with that” was Kevin’s response.
Again the two Testosterone riders fell into a quiet state as they worked the peddles to propel them up the various climbs with brief down hills to bring the heart rate back in line.
The silence was broken by Tim who declared “You can do more if you want, I hate being THAT GUY who whips out” .
Kevin was quick with his response. “We all take turns being That Guy, In fact I am usually that guy on every ride”. “This distance is perfect for a recovery ride”. He continued.
Silence was now only disturbed by the wind in their ears, and the occasional whir of the rear cluster when coasting. They did not have the DEVIL TRI-BIKE on the days ride making all those possessed noises from yesterday’s ride. (read about that on the bday ride write-up).
The two riders elected to shorten the ride as much as possible by taking the route that had them cyclo crossing over the rail road tracks by Green Hope High School, and then taking the most direct route down High House and on into the finish.
A perfect ride for a recovering OLD man, and A SICK over-achiever.
The two will be able to log 21 miles at 16.2 mph average.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Birthday Celebartion of LIFE
Bday ride March 15th.
The weather report was calling for heavy rains and thunderstorms starting potentially as early as 11 am. With that information a call (email) went out to all riders that the start for Saturdays ride would be very early. The ride was scheduled for 7am coffee and 7:15 start. The distance was planned for 56 to 58 miles. The objective was to ride no less than 56 miles with each mile representing one year of life for the Birthday boy. What a way to party.
A Brief History of Kevin’s Birthday Celebrations of the past.
(you may skip this section and go directly to the ride write-up below this History lesson).
Kevin Smit has been celebrating his birthdays each year with a selfish challenge to run or bike his age in miles on his birthday. This tradition started in 1987 on Kevin’s 35th birthday. On that day he ran 35 miles to celebrate 35 years of life. He told himself that he wanted to continue this tradition as long as he could. To make this challenge one that could last through the ages he designed the goal with a 24 hour time limit, and the ability to break the run into stages. This also supported the idea of always doing the run on his Birthday even when it would fall on a workday. In the early years he was able to start his run during the warmer daylight hours with brief rest stops for food, water, beer, and fresh sox and change of running shoes. As the years turned into decades Kevin found himself planning his run by staging/hiding water and changes of cloths along his routes. He also shifted his start closer and closer to the early mornings with some of them beginning at 12:01 am due to full workday schedules. This method of celebration became a driving force that kept Kevin focused on running and training with several individuals over the years joining him on the adventure.
On his 40th Birthday (still living in San Diego) Kevin had plotted his route to include the coast line of Southern California from Camp Pendleton at the start to a full lap of Mission Bay at the end. This route was to be a continuous run with brief stops to hydrate and change into fresh running cloths. He had also included in the middle of the run the objective of joining the San Diego Hash House Harriers for their scheduled afternoon run. Kevin and his family were all members of this “drinking club that had a running problem”. Kevin was at that time one of the older - seasoned runners with close to 400 runs with the group. Hash House Harriers can be found in most cities in the world and once a Hasher always a Hasher. As you travel the globe you will likely find a Hash that has a scheduled run and all Hashers are always invited as guests. To that point, Kevin and Theresa ran with the Paris Hash through the forests of Fountain Blue when visiting France many years ago. Being a member of the Hash makes you a Member of an extended family made up of some wonderful people.
On his 40th Bday run Kevin was pleasantly surprised when he was met at the start of his run by several Hashers who were there to run a leg of his route with him. As the day unfolded more Hashers joined in providing Kevin with at least 2 or 3 other runners who would run a section and drop out as others joined in. Kevin learned that Theresa had put the word out about his planned celebration and challenged the Hash to form a relay to provide fresh runners for his journey. At the end of this fabulous day Kevin was allowed to recover as other members of the Hash put him into a wheel chair and carted him to a restaurant where a large contingency of the Hash waited to roast him on this special day.
Kevin continued this tradition even having moved from the ideal training grounds of San Diego to the more seasonally challenge area of Cary NC. The last time Kevin ran his age on his Birthday was 9 years ago. On that day he turned 47 and ran 50 miles. Just like on his 40th the Hash (Sir Walter Raleigh Hash House Harriers) was there to run sections of the run with him concluding with a full on party as only Hashers can do. After many DOWN DOWNs Kevin was fully rehydrated with fluids that also replenished electrolytes and produced a buzz at the same time.
No clear understanding yet why the tradition suddenly stopped. Kevin rationalizes in his own head that work and life got in the way of staying focused on self and fun. After 4 years of getting older, fatter, slower, grumpier, and uglier Kevin decided to refocus his attention on being selfish, invest some time on himself and slowly get back in shape by biking. (Biking was something he and Theresa did starting in the late 70’s when living in Iowa. The two of them would ride across the state on a week long journey of camping and pedaling along with 10,000 other cyclists. They continued biking while living in San Diego. They would bike (mountain bike and road bike) just as much as they would run). Biking would also allow Kevin to lose some extra (many extra) pounds before he would consider pounding his knees on a run. Spurred on by this sudden change Theresa bought Kevin a new Mountain Bike for his 50th birthday. Kevin was back in the saddle but not yet on the roads of NC. Not fully committed yet to getting in shape Kevin struggled with taking the time to ride, but did enjoy the few evenings and weekends he took on the mountain bike. Two years of pretending to be serious about changing life style back towards fun and fitness Life took a sudden nose dive on April 12th of 2004. On that terrible day The Smits came home from work to learn that their youngest son had been killed in an automobile accident.
Together Theresa and Kevin have worked to recover from that earth shattering ordeal. They both recognize that they will never fully recover and every day is a call to them to do something that “Makes A Difference”. They also have come to realize that “Making a Difference” starts with oneself. Time to re-invest in self to get to a better place were then one can “Make a Difference” beyond self. Since 2004 they have had several false starts and each time they seem to sustain the investment and focus a little longer and with a little more intensity and FUN. They have come to thoroughly enjoy the weekend rides with those who share their Saturday and Sunday Mornings as either a member of the Testosterone Riders or the Smell the Roses Riders. By his 55th Birthday Kevin had worked himself back into condition mentally, emotionally, socially, and physically to CELEBRATE LIFE with his selfish Birthday ritual. The difference now is he is riding his age in miles on his road bike rather than running his age on that day. Secretively he maybe slowly working himself back into running shoes with an eye on his 60th birthday celebration. Stay tuned.
Back to the Days RIDE Write-up.
Joining Kevin on his Birthday Celebration ride where:
Christy (Pink Tri-athlete), and Jon (birthday boy March 16th) Majikes.
Also there in spirit were Theresa Smit, Kiehl Smit, and Kassel Smit.
Theresa was in California on a business trip and to watch their oldest son perform improv and play Base as a member of the “Mighty Regis” – Irish Punk band.
And Kassel their youngest son was making sure the weather cooperated for his Dad’s ride on that day as he looked down from Heaven.
The days ride was shaping up to be beautiful from the start. The day already was sunny, calm, and cool.
It was great to see Jon on his bike.
We had not seen nor heard from him all winter and were starting to worry about him. Jon is not just Celebrating 47 years of life he is also celebrating 2 yrs of his second LIFE. Jon has been a cancer survivor now for 2 years. He has a survivors spirit and has challenged himself to “Make a Difference” in several ways. One of those is to raise money for Diabetes research. In that effort he plans to organize a fund raiser with a ride across the US. His route will take him from the Gulf of Mexico to Canada rather than the traditional California to New York route. He is targeting to accomplish this in 2009. He plans on using 2008 as his training period. We will ask Jon to keep us all informed on how his training and fund raising efforts are going and to learn how we can help/participate.
Christy was ready to ride as always especially having been off the bike for a while as she recovered from emergency dental surgery. Don’t we sound like the old and failing aged folks we are.
Christy is also in her last 4 weeks of training for the Tempi Arizona Ironman event April 13th. You Go GIRL.
The days route had been carefully planned out in the tradition of Kevin’s Bday Celebrations of the past. The objective was to ride 56 miles with just a little extra to grow on. Kevin also wanted to provide some new roads for the group to ride on to help spice up the days ride. The route had the pack of three headed out of Brugers traveling on Cary Parkway with a cut through neighborhoods to arrive on Maynard. A turn on High House had the group traveling down the hill and again past the parking lot at Brugers. This short do loop was needed to ensure the extra miles to grow on as part of the traditional millage goal. The route can be reviewed by clicking on the link below.
http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=987746
The first 20 miles were on lightly traveled roads with contained rolling hills. Periods of silence were broken by longer periods to banter and chit chat with each rider taking turns dominating the conversations. Jon at one point early in the ride had been quite, silent (for him), and out of the blue he proudly announced “I have been pretty quite haven’t I !!”. “Yes Jon that is so unlike you, are you OK?” was Kevin’s reply. “No I just thought it would be fun to be quite for awhile” Jon sounded back. Christy had a look of confusion that required an explanation from Kevin. “Jon is very much like Steve Cope, only worse” Kevin explained. Christy immediately realized that someone else on the planet had the gift of gap besides Steve Cope. Again with great pride and joy Jon chimed in “Aren’t you glad I am not so talkative today?”. “No Jon your chit chat helps the miles melt by” Kevin retorted. The group continued with little concern for speed, the wind, the weather, or traffic. The objective was to enjoy the ride and Celebrate LIFE. This was especially easy today since the traffic was light, wind nonexistent, and temperatures ideal. The group also did not have to concern themselves with the speed because the heavy hammerers were not on the days ride.
A short stop at the filling station on Highway 64 and Farrington road allowed for bio breaks, a short nibble on a granola bar, and water bottles topped off. Back on the road with a strong run down Highway 64 over Lake Jordan Bridge to the right turn onto Big Woods.
Big Woods is a great section of light traffic and rolling hills. The road is broken up with patches of newly laid black top to repair construction traffic damage. During these sections of road Christy was cussing out her front fork, the bike, and bike shop, and the mechanics who worked on her bike. She was hearing popping noises and rattling noises coming from all sections of her high end expensive Tri- Bike.
“You get what you pay for” was the verbal jab poked at Christy by Kevin. Jon was busy trying to diagnose the origin of the noises emitted by the TRI-BIKE.
Maybe TRI-Bike is short for TRY AND RIDE IT. Or maybe TRI means Tough Riding It.
In any case it is a bike that costs lots of money and is uncomfortable and unstable to ride, and does not come with water bottles, those you have to mount in locations that are hard to reach (behind the seat).
Needless to say the group had great fun picking on Christy and her Rattling TRI-Bike. Within a short time the group found themselves on Farrington road and the familiar run towards home. A left turn found the riders transitioning from the smooth black top of Farrington to the vibrations supplied by the textured black top of Horton Pond.
Again the TRI-Bike began to sing “Ping, clang, Pop, rattle, rattle”. The tune reminded Kevin of the old 50’s song “UH EH UH AH AH Ting Tang Walla Walla Bing Bang” or something like that. Over the rolling hills of Horton Pond the riders traveled with little interruption from the outside world accept for the signing of the TRI-Bike and one young driver who raced past as if to say “This is my ROAD”.
A quick right turn onto 751 and a slow roll into the left turn onto Luther allowing a line of cars to pass as the riders timed the turn. The riders found themselves again comforted by the smooth black top and the fast downhill as they past the pond with fishing hut.
“WOW that is COOL” Christy was heard to saw as she zoomed past that last land mark. These are roads not yet traveled by Christy, who like all good Tri-athletes fall into a simple pattern of biking, running and swimming the same routines and routes every time (no time to explore JUST TRAiN).
A right turn onto Green Level and the short run towards the two hills and a left onto White Oak. Once on White Oak the group slowed the pace to relax from the two quick hills they had attacked, and to prepare for the next slow climb to the end of White Oak. The noise on the Tri-Bike was no longer an issue, maybe the problem resolved itself? Past the parking lot for the Tobacco Trail and at the start of the downhill there came a new louder deeper rubbing noise from the TRI-Bike.
Looking Back Kevin saw Christy looking between her legs towards the rear of the bike, Jon was already slowing to dismount his bike to rescue Christy from the EVIL POSESED TRI-Bike that now sounded like the voice of the DEVIL.
Christy deftly brought the monster bike to a stop. Kevin had already turned uphill and was along side with Jon off of his bike and reaching towards the rear of the TRI-BIKE.
“Here is your problem” announced Jon as he worked to dislodge the Water Bottle cage from between the spokes and the chain stays.
Christies Rapid response in stopping the bike prevented a catastrophe from unfolding. Just as she was poised to speed downhill she managed to halt the bike get her cleats out of the peddles, all at the first sound of the DEVILS Voice.
Imagine what the outcome could have been had she continued for and instant more as the water bottle cage caught the rear spokes locking up the rear end.
“You Get What YOU PAY FOR” Kevin was again poking Christy with a verbal stick.
Everyone took time to ponder what happened, what could have happened, and how glad they were to find themselves making fun of the situation. “What do we do with this”? asked Christy holding the nonfunctional water bottle cages in her hand.
Jon quickly snatched the cage and started to find room in his camel back water pouch. “Put the water bottle and repair kit in your empty water bottle cages Jon” Kevin suggested.
With that Jon took the items out of the broken cage and moved them to his bike. He then used the front strap of his camel Back water pouch to secure the broken remnants, for the ride to the finish.
Jon the Pack MULE. He has the water bottle cage strapped to his chest.
Christy Glad to be alive and thanking Jon for his willingness to haul her debris home.
The group now had even more fuel for the fodder. The rest of the ride was totally uneventful after hearing the Devils voice come thru the TRI-BIKE. The group finished the route by riding upchuck in the reverse direction. They also found themselves pulling off the side of the road to let a Fire Truck pass between them and a car that had turned into the Fire Truck and then stop in the middle of the road.
Have you ever heard a fireman cuss at a driver over the sound of the siren and his air horn?
These riders have.
On into the finish with ease and a great sense of accomplishment. Lots to share about the ride and the TRI-BIKE from HELL. The ride ended at 58 miles at an average of 14.5 mph with stops to exorcise the TRI-BIKE.
Thanks for all who participated in the Celebration of Life and to those of you who took the time to read about it. Until next year ride safe ride often.
Happy Birthday Jon and Kevin.
The weather report was calling for heavy rains and thunderstorms starting potentially as early as 11 am. With that information a call (email) went out to all riders that the start for Saturdays ride would be very early. The ride was scheduled for 7am coffee and 7:15 start. The distance was planned for 56 to 58 miles. The objective was to ride no less than 56 miles with each mile representing one year of life for the Birthday boy. What a way to party.
A Brief History of Kevin’s Birthday Celebrations of the past.
(you may skip this section and go directly to the ride write-up below this History lesson).
Kevin Smit has been celebrating his birthdays each year with a selfish challenge to run or bike his age in miles on his birthday. This tradition started in 1987 on Kevin’s 35th birthday. On that day he ran 35 miles to celebrate 35 years of life. He told himself that he wanted to continue this tradition as long as he could. To make this challenge one that could last through the ages he designed the goal with a 24 hour time limit, and the ability to break the run into stages. This also supported the idea of always doing the run on his Birthday even when it would fall on a workday. In the early years he was able to start his run during the warmer daylight hours with brief rest stops for food, water, beer, and fresh sox and change of running shoes. As the years turned into decades Kevin found himself planning his run by staging/hiding water and changes of cloths along his routes. He also shifted his start closer and closer to the early mornings with some of them beginning at 12:01 am due to full workday schedules. This method of celebration became a driving force that kept Kevin focused on running and training with several individuals over the years joining him on the adventure.
On his 40th Birthday (still living in San Diego) Kevin had plotted his route to include the coast line of Southern California from Camp Pendleton at the start to a full lap of Mission Bay at the end. This route was to be a continuous run with brief stops to hydrate and change into fresh running cloths. He had also included in the middle of the run the objective of joining the San Diego Hash House Harriers for their scheduled afternoon run. Kevin and his family were all members of this “drinking club that had a running problem”. Kevin was at that time one of the older - seasoned runners with close to 400 runs with the group. Hash House Harriers can be found in most cities in the world and once a Hasher always a Hasher. As you travel the globe you will likely find a Hash that has a scheduled run and all Hashers are always invited as guests. To that point, Kevin and Theresa ran with the Paris Hash through the forests of Fountain Blue when visiting France many years ago. Being a member of the Hash makes you a Member of an extended family made up of some wonderful people.
On his 40th Bday run Kevin was pleasantly surprised when he was met at the start of his run by several Hashers who were there to run a leg of his route with him. As the day unfolded more Hashers joined in providing Kevin with at least 2 or 3 other runners who would run a section and drop out as others joined in. Kevin learned that Theresa had put the word out about his planned celebration and challenged the Hash to form a relay to provide fresh runners for his journey. At the end of this fabulous day Kevin was allowed to recover as other members of the Hash put him into a wheel chair and carted him to a restaurant where a large contingency of the Hash waited to roast him on this special day.
Kevin continued this tradition even having moved from the ideal training grounds of San Diego to the more seasonally challenge area of Cary NC. The last time Kevin ran his age on his Birthday was 9 years ago. On that day he turned 47 and ran 50 miles. Just like on his 40th the Hash (Sir Walter Raleigh Hash House Harriers) was there to run sections of the run with him concluding with a full on party as only Hashers can do. After many DOWN DOWNs Kevin was fully rehydrated with fluids that also replenished electrolytes and produced a buzz at the same time.
No clear understanding yet why the tradition suddenly stopped. Kevin rationalizes in his own head that work and life got in the way of staying focused on self and fun. After 4 years of getting older, fatter, slower, grumpier, and uglier Kevin decided to refocus his attention on being selfish, invest some time on himself and slowly get back in shape by biking. (Biking was something he and Theresa did starting in the late 70’s when living in Iowa. The two of them would ride across the state on a week long journey of camping and pedaling along with 10,000 other cyclists. They continued biking while living in San Diego. They would bike (mountain bike and road bike) just as much as they would run). Biking would also allow Kevin to lose some extra (many extra) pounds before he would consider pounding his knees on a run. Spurred on by this sudden change Theresa bought Kevin a new Mountain Bike for his 50th birthday. Kevin was back in the saddle but not yet on the roads of NC. Not fully committed yet to getting in shape Kevin struggled with taking the time to ride, but did enjoy the few evenings and weekends he took on the mountain bike. Two years of pretending to be serious about changing life style back towards fun and fitness Life took a sudden nose dive on April 12th of 2004. On that terrible day The Smits came home from work to learn that their youngest son had been killed in an automobile accident.
Together Theresa and Kevin have worked to recover from that earth shattering ordeal. They both recognize that they will never fully recover and every day is a call to them to do something that “Makes A Difference”. They also have come to realize that “Making a Difference” starts with oneself. Time to re-invest in self to get to a better place were then one can “Make a Difference” beyond self. Since 2004 they have had several false starts and each time they seem to sustain the investment and focus a little longer and with a little more intensity and FUN. They have come to thoroughly enjoy the weekend rides with those who share their Saturday and Sunday Mornings as either a member of the Testosterone Riders or the Smell the Roses Riders. By his 55th Birthday Kevin had worked himself back into condition mentally, emotionally, socially, and physically to CELEBRATE LIFE with his selfish Birthday ritual. The difference now is he is riding his age in miles on his road bike rather than running his age on that day. Secretively he maybe slowly working himself back into running shoes with an eye on his 60th birthday celebration. Stay tuned.
Back to the Days RIDE Write-up.
Joining Kevin on his Birthday Celebration ride where:
Christy (Pink Tri-athlete), and Jon (birthday boy March 16th) Majikes.
Also there in spirit were Theresa Smit, Kiehl Smit, and Kassel Smit.
Theresa was in California on a business trip and to watch their oldest son perform improv and play Base as a member of the “Mighty Regis” – Irish Punk band.
And Kassel their youngest son was making sure the weather cooperated for his Dad’s ride on that day as he looked down from Heaven.
The days ride was shaping up to be beautiful from the start. The day already was sunny, calm, and cool.
It was great to see Jon on his bike.
We had not seen nor heard from him all winter and were starting to worry about him. Jon is not just Celebrating 47 years of life he is also celebrating 2 yrs of his second LIFE. Jon has been a cancer survivor now for 2 years. He has a survivors spirit and has challenged himself to “Make a Difference” in several ways. One of those is to raise money for Diabetes research. In that effort he plans to organize a fund raiser with a ride across the US. His route will take him from the Gulf of Mexico to Canada rather than the traditional California to New York route. He is targeting to accomplish this in 2009. He plans on using 2008 as his training period. We will ask Jon to keep us all informed on how his training and fund raising efforts are going and to learn how we can help/participate.
Christy was ready to ride as always especially having been off the bike for a while as she recovered from emergency dental surgery. Don’t we sound like the old and failing aged folks we are.
Christy is also in her last 4 weeks of training for the Tempi Arizona Ironman event April 13th. You Go GIRL.
The days route had been carefully planned out in the tradition of Kevin’s Bday Celebrations of the past. The objective was to ride 56 miles with just a little extra to grow on. Kevin also wanted to provide some new roads for the group to ride on to help spice up the days ride. The route had the pack of three headed out of Brugers traveling on Cary Parkway with a cut through neighborhoods to arrive on Maynard. A turn on High House had the group traveling down the hill and again past the parking lot at Brugers. This short do loop was needed to ensure the extra miles to grow on as part of the traditional millage goal. The route can be reviewed by clicking on the link below.
http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=987746
The first 20 miles were on lightly traveled roads with contained rolling hills. Periods of silence were broken by longer periods to banter and chit chat with each rider taking turns dominating the conversations. Jon at one point early in the ride had been quite, silent (for him), and out of the blue he proudly announced “I have been pretty quite haven’t I !!”. “Yes Jon that is so unlike you, are you OK?” was Kevin’s reply. “No I just thought it would be fun to be quite for awhile” Jon sounded back. Christy had a look of confusion that required an explanation from Kevin. “Jon is very much like Steve Cope, only worse” Kevin explained. Christy immediately realized that someone else on the planet had the gift of gap besides Steve Cope. Again with great pride and joy Jon chimed in “Aren’t you glad I am not so talkative today?”. “No Jon your chit chat helps the miles melt by” Kevin retorted. The group continued with little concern for speed, the wind, the weather, or traffic. The objective was to enjoy the ride and Celebrate LIFE. This was especially easy today since the traffic was light, wind nonexistent, and temperatures ideal. The group also did not have to concern themselves with the speed because the heavy hammerers were not on the days ride.
A short stop at the filling station on Highway 64 and Farrington road allowed for bio breaks, a short nibble on a granola bar, and water bottles topped off. Back on the road with a strong run down Highway 64 over Lake Jordan Bridge to the right turn onto Big Woods.
Big Woods is a great section of light traffic and rolling hills. The road is broken up with patches of newly laid black top to repair construction traffic damage. During these sections of road Christy was cussing out her front fork, the bike, and bike shop, and the mechanics who worked on her bike. She was hearing popping noises and rattling noises coming from all sections of her high end expensive Tri- Bike.
“You get what you pay for” was the verbal jab poked at Christy by Kevin. Jon was busy trying to diagnose the origin of the noises emitted by the TRI-BIKE.
Maybe TRI-Bike is short for TRY AND RIDE IT. Or maybe TRI means Tough Riding It.
In any case it is a bike that costs lots of money and is uncomfortable and unstable to ride, and does not come with water bottles, those you have to mount in locations that are hard to reach (behind the seat).
Needless to say the group had great fun picking on Christy and her Rattling TRI-Bike. Within a short time the group found themselves on Farrington road and the familiar run towards home. A left turn found the riders transitioning from the smooth black top of Farrington to the vibrations supplied by the textured black top of Horton Pond.
Again the TRI-Bike began to sing “Ping, clang, Pop, rattle, rattle”. The tune reminded Kevin of the old 50’s song “UH EH UH AH AH Ting Tang Walla Walla Bing Bang” or something like that. Over the rolling hills of Horton Pond the riders traveled with little interruption from the outside world accept for the signing of the TRI-Bike and one young driver who raced past as if to say “This is my ROAD”.
A quick right turn onto 751 and a slow roll into the left turn onto Luther allowing a line of cars to pass as the riders timed the turn. The riders found themselves again comforted by the smooth black top and the fast downhill as they past the pond with fishing hut.
“WOW that is COOL” Christy was heard to saw as she zoomed past that last land mark. These are roads not yet traveled by Christy, who like all good Tri-athletes fall into a simple pattern of biking, running and swimming the same routines and routes every time (no time to explore JUST TRAiN).
A right turn onto Green Level and the short run towards the two hills and a left onto White Oak. Once on White Oak the group slowed the pace to relax from the two quick hills they had attacked, and to prepare for the next slow climb to the end of White Oak. The noise on the Tri-Bike was no longer an issue, maybe the problem resolved itself? Past the parking lot for the Tobacco Trail and at the start of the downhill there came a new louder deeper rubbing noise from the TRI-Bike.
Looking Back Kevin saw Christy looking between her legs towards the rear of the bike, Jon was already slowing to dismount his bike to rescue Christy from the EVIL POSESED TRI-Bike that now sounded like the voice of the DEVIL.
Christy deftly brought the monster bike to a stop. Kevin had already turned uphill and was along side with Jon off of his bike and reaching towards the rear of the TRI-BIKE.
“Here is your problem” announced Jon as he worked to dislodge the Water Bottle cage from between the spokes and the chain stays.
Christies Rapid response in stopping the bike prevented a catastrophe from unfolding. Just as she was poised to speed downhill she managed to halt the bike get her cleats out of the peddles, all at the first sound of the DEVILS Voice.
Imagine what the outcome could have been had she continued for and instant more as the water bottle cage caught the rear spokes locking up the rear end.
“You Get What YOU PAY FOR” Kevin was again poking Christy with a verbal stick.
Everyone took time to ponder what happened, what could have happened, and how glad they were to find themselves making fun of the situation. “What do we do with this”? asked Christy holding the nonfunctional water bottle cages in her hand.
Jon quickly snatched the cage and started to find room in his camel back water pouch. “Put the water bottle and repair kit in your empty water bottle cages Jon” Kevin suggested.
With that Jon took the items out of the broken cage and moved them to his bike. He then used the front strap of his camel Back water pouch to secure the broken remnants, for the ride to the finish.
Jon the Pack MULE. He has the water bottle cage strapped to his chest.
Christy Glad to be alive and thanking Jon for his willingness to haul her debris home.
The group now had even more fuel for the fodder. The rest of the ride was totally uneventful after hearing the Devils voice come thru the TRI-BIKE. The group finished the route by riding upchuck in the reverse direction. They also found themselves pulling off the side of the road to let a Fire Truck pass between them and a car that had turned into the Fire Truck and then stop in the middle of the road.
Have you ever heard a fireman cuss at a driver over the sound of the siren and his air horn?
These riders have.
On into the finish with ease and a great sense of accomplishment. Lots to share about the ride and the TRI-BIKE from HELL. The ride ended at 58 miles at an average of 14.5 mph with stops to exorcise the TRI-BIKE.
Thanks for all who participated in the Celebration of Life and to those of you who took the time to read about it. Until next year ride safe ride often.
Happy Birthday Jon and Kevin.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
A Thursday afternoon ride - in the mountains
Mountain roads.
March 13th Boone NC.
Temps are in the mid 60s and wind is variable.
Sun is shining time to go for a bike ride.
Kevin Smit loaded his road bike into the back of the van and drove down the steep winding road, from the house he was staying in, to the bottom of the hill to begin his short ride on the roads around Boone NC.
The route he chose was one he and Theresa had accomplished twice before on their mountain bikes. Those bikes have the gears for long steep climbs. Today Kevin was attempting the ride on his road bike. The gear selection is great for long pulls on flat roads but not so dynamic for mountain roads. Kevin did not need leg warmers or arm warmers as the temperature at the start of the ride was well into the 60s.
Kevin headed out with a quick turn onto highway 105 towards ASU and Boone. This is a busy road but with the downhill slop Kevin was able to mix into the traffic flow easily. A right turn off of 105 put Kevin on service roads that wound around and behind the major shopping areas were all of Boone shops at the Lowes and Walmart. Kevin had little traffic to contend with on this service road that slowly climbed and then fell dumping him onto Highway 301 heading towards Blowing Rock. The first short climb of the day, as cars and dump trucks whizzed past. Lots of loose gravel, dirt, and the remains from salt trucks packed the side of the road were Kevin was forced to ride. After a short distance of about a mile Kevin left the busy highway by turning right onto a paved mountain road that will take him up and over the ski areas and connect onto the blue ridge parkway at the same spot were Highway 301 would have taken him if he continued on that busy highway.
This chosen route is far more scenic, challenging, and less traveled by cars and trucks. Kevin was already winded by the short climb on 301 and knew that the challenge ahead covered several miles of slow steady climbing. The road started off by swooping down into a small valley alongside a mountain stream. Crossing over a single lane bridge eliminated any momentum generated by the downhill run. On the other side of the bridge loomed the long climb with curves that hid the top of the climb from the riders view.
Nothing to do now but sit back on the seat, drop the heals, grab the bars, and slowly grind on up using upper body as well as legs to make headway. No point in standing since the crest of the hill was such a long way away. All the rider could hear was the wheezing generated by lungs straining to draw any extra oxygen through nose and mouth followed by a loud rush of carbon dioxide being exchanged for another attempt at oxygen consumption. 2/3rds of the way to the top of this climb the road made a sharp left turn.
Here the rider stopped at the only level spot of the climb. This stop was needed to bring the heart rate and breathing pattern out of a rhythm that could have been mistaken for spasms. A long draw of water from the water bottle followed by several more as the rider contemplated the idea of turning down hill and reversing his path to call it a day.
Once the heart rate had fallen below Maximum and into the target zone the rider returned the water bottle to its location in the cage. Then with a quick glance to ensure no traffic the rider pushed off and began the ritual of peddling with one leg while fumbling with the other to locate and then clip into the peddle. This was particularly challenging considering the extra wobbling generated by the slow speed as the rider headed on further up hill. This last 1/3 of the climb slowly decreased its angle of attack allowing the rider to shift into higher gears. Once at the top the rider again stopped for a short water break and to look down onto the Skiers as they dismounted from the ski lifts and began their downhill runs. Here was a great opportunity for a picture. Kevin pulled out his cell phone and placed it into camera mode and clicked off two pictures of the ski runs.
March 13th Boone NC.
Temps are in the mid 60s and wind is variable.
Sun is shining time to go for a bike ride.
Kevin Smit loaded his road bike into the back of the van and drove down the steep winding road, from the house he was staying in, to the bottom of the hill to begin his short ride on the roads around Boone NC.
The route he chose was one he and Theresa had accomplished twice before on their mountain bikes. Those bikes have the gears for long steep climbs. Today Kevin was attempting the ride on his road bike. The gear selection is great for long pulls on flat roads but not so dynamic for mountain roads. Kevin did not need leg warmers or arm warmers as the temperature at the start of the ride was well into the 60s.
Kevin headed out with a quick turn onto highway 105 towards ASU and Boone. This is a busy road but with the downhill slop Kevin was able to mix into the traffic flow easily. A right turn off of 105 put Kevin on service roads that wound around and behind the major shopping areas were all of Boone shops at the Lowes and Walmart. Kevin had little traffic to contend with on this service road that slowly climbed and then fell dumping him onto Highway 301 heading towards Blowing Rock. The first short climb of the day, as cars and dump trucks whizzed past. Lots of loose gravel, dirt, and the remains from salt trucks packed the side of the road were Kevin was forced to ride. After a short distance of about a mile Kevin left the busy highway by turning right onto a paved mountain road that will take him up and over the ski areas and connect onto the blue ridge parkway at the same spot were Highway 301 would have taken him if he continued on that busy highway.
This chosen route is far more scenic, challenging, and less traveled by cars and trucks. Kevin was already winded by the short climb on 301 and knew that the challenge ahead covered several miles of slow steady climbing. The road started off by swooping down into a small valley alongside a mountain stream. Crossing over a single lane bridge eliminated any momentum generated by the downhill run. On the other side of the bridge loomed the long climb with curves that hid the top of the climb from the riders view.
Nothing to do now but sit back on the seat, drop the heals, grab the bars, and slowly grind on up using upper body as well as legs to make headway. No point in standing since the crest of the hill was such a long way away. All the rider could hear was the wheezing generated by lungs straining to draw any extra oxygen through nose and mouth followed by a loud rush of carbon dioxide being exchanged for another attempt at oxygen consumption. 2/3rds of the way to the top of this climb the road made a sharp left turn.
Here the rider stopped at the only level spot of the climb. This stop was needed to bring the heart rate and breathing pattern out of a rhythm that could have been mistaken for spasms. A long draw of water from the water bottle followed by several more as the rider contemplated the idea of turning down hill and reversing his path to call it a day.
Once the heart rate had fallen below Maximum and into the target zone the rider returned the water bottle to its location in the cage. Then with a quick glance to ensure no traffic the rider pushed off and began the ritual of peddling with one leg while fumbling with the other to locate and then clip into the peddle. This was particularly challenging considering the extra wobbling generated by the slow speed as the rider headed on further up hill. This last 1/3 of the climb slowly decreased its angle of attack allowing the rider to shift into higher gears. Once at the top the rider again stopped for a short water break and to look down onto the Skiers as they dismounted from the ski lifts and began their downhill runs. Here was a great opportunity for a picture. Kevin pulled out his cell phone and placed it into camera mode and clicked off two pictures of the ski runs.
Back on the bike Kevin found himself within a couple of revolutions of the pedals headed down hill on a road called Flattop (Not very Flat- but it was near the top).This road traveled down the hilltop above the Tweetsie Rail Road theme park, ultimately connecting up finally with the Blue Ridge Parkway.
The rider hit speeds of 38 miles an hour while navigating gingerly through curves that had sand and old salt debris from previous snow removals. Left turn onto the Blue Ridge Parkway had the rider again facing a long steady climb towards the Moses Cone Park and homestead. The traffic was light with a maximum speed on the parkway of 45 miles per hour meant that most cars were happy to wait if needed before passing. Once at the Moses Cone homestead/museum the road again provided a swift ride down towards the intersection with highway 221 headed for Blowing Rock.
Kevin took this turn and then an immediate right turn onto another mountain road that would provide for less traffic and great scenery. Scenery translates always into HILLS. Left turn again with the onset of another climb. This one is not as long but is just as steep.
Over the top of the climb put the rider onto curving narrow level ground that wound along the edge of the mountain tops. Many of the curves were tight enough to warrant signs warning cars to slow to 15 mph. One curve had a convex mirror on a pole to allow drivers to see around the bend to oncoming traffic.
Several cabins lined the edge of the road with just enough shoulder for the cars to park on as their driveway, the rest of the house stuck out over the edge of the mountain supported by stilts that reached down for a sampling of slopped earth. This section of the ride was worth all the climbs to get there and the one last major climb that still lay ahead. Kevin saw only two vehicles on this stretch of the ride as he swung around the curves and tucked in tight on the downhill runs. Kevin relaxed as best he could in an effort to recover as much as possible before the last and most difficult climb of the ride. Down the last dip with enough momentum to get to the sharp right hand turn that signaled the last climb of the day. In preparation Kevin had already shifted to 3 rd gear hoping he would not have to shift to any lower gears.
The bike Kevin was riding has had over 2,800 miles of riding and has never been challenged to get into granny gear. Kevin’s goal was to keep that record clean. 2nd gear and no lower was the objective. Still in 3rd gear the bike and its rider made that sharp right hand turn just as all the momentum from the previous dip and rise had dissolved. A wall of blacktop met the bike and rider head on.
Up out of the saddle the rider leaned forward over the handle bars. Legs slowly turning the bike being thrown from side to side the handle bars being pulled on so hard the front wheel was losing traction with the pavement. Push down with the left leg, pull up on the cleats with the right leg. Momentum getting dangerously low.
Shift! 2nd gear did nothing to change the situation…….. SHIFT! First gear now allowed for a slightly higher cadence resulting in a slight surge forward. Rider slumps back into the saddle, heals down, arms pulling on the handle bars, a slow methodic rotation of the crank shaft as the chain rolled over the cogs of the largest chain ring on the rear cluster of the bike.
Each chain link could be counted as they slowly rounded their way up and over that first gear. The record has been broken. The bike now has had all gears utilized in its short life of just under 3,000 miles. Time for a new bike. ;-) Or maybe a stronger rider. On and on the climb continued.
About half way through the climb the grade reduced in degrees allowing the rider to find 2nd gear and then third, only to be challenged again to work back to first gear. On and on the climb continued with spurts were the rider would climb out of the saddle in an effort to coax the bike into a short lived surge. 4 mph was the maximum speed on this climb.
The rider spent 1/4th of the days time on the ride on this last climb. Just as suddenly as this climb impacted the skills of this rider and his bike the climb transitioned into a long sweeping downhill that lasted for miles at speeds of 38 to 40 mph. WAHOO. The wind generated by the downhill speeds produced tears in the rider’s eyes rider, and the wind generated a deafening nose in the rider’s ears. Cars following along behind had no need to pass as they and the rider were in perfect harmony through the mountain curves and long downhill run. Back to Highway 105 and after a left turn followed by a short run downhill the rider finds himself gliding to a stop alongside his parked vehicle. A great challenge, a record setting (granny gear) day, a warm sunny 17 miles at a blistering 11 mph average. This average had sections of the ride were the bike and rider hit speeds of 33 to 38 miles an hour over several mile + long downhill stretches
Sunday, March 09, 2008
Day Light Savings Time rides.
Lots of day light was saved on this weekend.
Saturdays ride was rained out.
Sunday the only rider to show up was Steve Cope.
Steve called Kevin and Theresa Smit to find that they elected to sleep in.
Steve then decided to join the BIG BOYS on the Bike Shop ride.
He was pleased to learn they planed to ride about 35 miles. This is a normal distance for early season rides for the Testosterone riders which Steve is a Charter Member of. Steve rode the route drafting near the rear of the pack. He did not attempt any of his usually tactics of attacking on the hills. We later learned that he and several others near the back of the pack were dropped by the intense pace generated by the stronger riders.
A humbleing expreiance for Steve to be sure.
This so devistated him that he has found many excuses to miss all other rides since.
Maybe we will see him soon on a ride, and maybe we will see a new gentler Steve Cope.
NA.
Saturdays ride was rained out.
Sunday the only rider to show up was Steve Cope.
Steve called Kevin and Theresa Smit to find that they elected to sleep in.
Steve then decided to join the BIG BOYS on the Bike Shop ride.
He was pleased to learn they planed to ride about 35 miles. This is a normal distance for early season rides for the Testosterone riders which Steve is a Charter Member of. Steve rode the route drafting near the rear of the pack. He did not attempt any of his usually tactics of attacking on the hills. We later learned that he and several others near the back of the pack were dropped by the intense pace generated by the stronger riders.
A humbleing expreiance for Steve to be sure.
This so devistated him that he has found many excuses to miss all other rides since.
Maybe we will see him soon on a ride, and maybe we will see a new gentler Steve Cope.
NA.
Sunday, March 02, 2008
Flying solo
Sunday March 2nd 2008.
Kevin and Theresa arrived at Brugers/Carabou around 8 am. Theresa drove herself there as she would head home after saying hello to today’s riders. She was headed out of town to Canada for a business trip at 11 am and could not afford to participate in the days ride.
As they sipped on coffee they saw Theresa and Rich stop in for their coffee. They were dressed ready to ride. However they and the Sparano’s were planning to ride Mountain Bikes in Umstead this morning. Look for a write up from Steve Sparano about that ride. A short time later while continuing to enjoy their early coffee in strolled Jim Palistrant and his wife for their morning coffee. Jim and Kevin spoke briefly of the Frost bite 50 ride and how fun it was. Jim then informed Kevin that he has been riding with an organized group leaving at 10 am on Sundays from the bike store off of Old Jenks and 55. The store is the Bike Chain.
As 8 am turned to 8:30 am and then to 9 am Kevin realized he was going to be by himself on today’s ride. With that realization he decided to follow Theresa home and be there to take her to the airport. This would also allow him to jump on the ride from the Bike Chain starting at 10 am.
Off to the airport they went. Theresa was pulling her bags from the car only to discover she had left her purse at home. Back to the house the two went only to quickly return to the airport now with Theresa fully prepared to check in to her flight. A quick good by was exchanged and Kevin was on his way to the mornings ride.
Too late to join the organized ride Kevin decided to launch his solo ride from the Bruger’s parking lot.
He promised himself to alter the route in order to make it more entertaining than doing the standard route solo. He also decided to bring out the Classic 1979 Jeffry Bock for the days ride.
Attached is a link that shows the route he designed as his ride unfolded.
http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=1678959
No real wind, great warm temperatures, sunny helped Kevin cover the days distance.
There was no need for leg warmers as the temp had climbed from 36 degrees to the low 50’s by the start of his ride. The wind was nonexistent expect for that generated by the rider.
Today’s ride culminated in 47 miles at an average of 16.5 mph and average Heart Rate of 132 bpm. He took one bio break at the corner of Farrington and Highway 64.
Jim’s ride with the Bike shop resulted in just over 50 miles at an average pace of 19 mph.
This would have destroyed Kevin.
See you all Saturday and Sunday March 8th and 9th.
Kevin and Theresa arrived at Brugers/Carabou around 8 am. Theresa drove herself there as she would head home after saying hello to today’s riders. She was headed out of town to Canada for a business trip at 11 am and could not afford to participate in the days ride.
As they sipped on coffee they saw Theresa and Rich stop in for their coffee. They were dressed ready to ride. However they and the Sparano’s were planning to ride Mountain Bikes in Umstead this morning. Look for a write up from Steve Sparano about that ride. A short time later while continuing to enjoy their early coffee in strolled Jim Palistrant and his wife for their morning coffee. Jim and Kevin spoke briefly of the Frost bite 50 ride and how fun it was. Jim then informed Kevin that he has been riding with an organized group leaving at 10 am on Sundays from the bike store off of Old Jenks and 55. The store is the Bike Chain.
As 8 am turned to 8:30 am and then to 9 am Kevin realized he was going to be by himself on today’s ride. With that realization he decided to follow Theresa home and be there to take her to the airport. This would also allow him to jump on the ride from the Bike Chain starting at 10 am.
Off to the airport they went. Theresa was pulling her bags from the car only to discover she had left her purse at home. Back to the house the two went only to quickly return to the airport now with Theresa fully prepared to check in to her flight. A quick good by was exchanged and Kevin was on his way to the mornings ride.
Too late to join the organized ride Kevin decided to launch his solo ride from the Bruger’s parking lot.
He promised himself to alter the route in order to make it more entertaining than doing the standard route solo. He also decided to bring out the Classic 1979 Jeffry Bock for the days ride.
Attached is a link that shows the route he designed as his ride unfolded.
http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=1678959
No real wind, great warm temperatures, sunny helped Kevin cover the days distance.
There was no need for leg warmers as the temp had climbed from 36 degrees to the low 50’s by the start of his ride. The wind was nonexistent expect for that generated by the rider.
Today’s ride culminated in 47 miles at an average of 16.5 mph and average Heart Rate of 132 bpm. He took one bio break at the corner of Farrington and Highway 64.
Jim’s ride with the Bike shop resulted in just over 50 miles at an average pace of 19 mph.
This would have destroyed Kevin.
See you all Saturday and Sunday March 8th and 9th.
Saturday, March 01, 2008
One Rose
Kevin had a Scuba class today so I was on my own to load up my bike, helmet and the other essentials needed for the ride. I arrived at Bruegger’s around 8:40. The lines were more than 3 deep for coffee and even longer than that on the bagel side. I knew it was going to be a good day for a ride not because it was sunny and 45 degrees, but because I finally knew the answer to the Trivia Question for 10 cents off my large half-caf. The question was: Toy and recent film whose motto was “More than meets the eye.” Surprisingly enough I was informed I was one of only 2 who had gotten it right! I doctored my coffee and headed for the bagel line. I gnawed half of the bagel, took 2 Aleve and washed them down with my half-caf. I’m ready. Where’s everyone else? Jae, Sarah, Beth, Pinky, the Chihauhua, Tim the tool man, the spitfire Sparano’s, … I knew the Claytons were heading to Prague so they were MIA. OK well 9:05. I did one last pit stop and said “I’m riding!”. No arguments! On colder days snuggled in a warm Caribou chair the argument would have easily resulted in leisurely breakfast and a warm drive back home.
I donned my bike apparel including a new jacket purchased just that Monday on a shopping spree at Performance. At 45 degrees and rising I would surely be shedding it at some point early in the ride. Off I went, the lone rose.
Man! everyone was out today, cars and tons of biker’s and runners! I figured I would go the usual path to Upchuck and then decide from there how far I wanted to go. I knew I would not have much of a chance to exercise tomorrow, so better make it a good distance today. Without the other Roses to spark conversation my head just wondered to other pressing matters. I needed to clean up the yard and it would be a good day for that. I had to do laundry and then pack for my business trip to Toronto. I needed to put away all the bedding from the Improv Invasion last week. Not to mention a number of work tasks that have piled up this week. Most matters were solved somewhere between Greenhope HS and the top of Upchuck, but I knew I would have trouble recalling what the solutions were with the same clarity once I got home.
The top of Upchuck I stopped to strip, blow nose and decide which way next. The new jacket folded into its own pocket exposing a waste strap. The tights covering my bike shorts and unshaven winter white legs had to go as well. I stuffed them in the pouch, fastened it around my waste and took a swig of water. It was quite breezy, so far I had been battling a slight head wind and turning towards Lake Jordan would be directly into the wind. Better to go with the headwind first and then I will be pushed on the return! Good strategy. I headed right, out past Mt. Pisgah church, left on Farrel and then right at the T all the way to 721. I past the refurbished boat, which looked very close to being ocean ready and the nursery which seemed ready for the Spring planting frenzy. With the exception of an occasional clearing, the trees on the side of the road sheltered me from the full force of the wind, The left turn on to Farrington was a partial relief. Then I tacked left onto Horton’s Pond, sat up in my seat and let the tail wind enhance my acceleration. Nice! Payback for all the work. I floated back to 721 with the bliss only interrupted by an A**hole in a white pickup, who came speeding by within inches of my elbow! There was no one else on the rode! I contemplated the rant I would inflict on him if I was ever given that opportunity. Soon I was back to Green Level and took the right all the way to Green Level Church Rd. I then took a left into the wind and up hill so I could come in on Green Hope School Rd. I lifted my bike over the NO Trespassing RR tracks, stretched a bit and knew the wind would be my friend the remainder of the ride. I made it back to Bruegger’s before noon with close to 35 miles at a 13.8 average (good for a rose by any name). It was a sweet ride for this one rose.
I donned my bike apparel including a new jacket purchased just that Monday on a shopping spree at Performance. At 45 degrees and rising I would surely be shedding it at some point early in the ride. Off I went, the lone rose.
Man! everyone was out today, cars and tons of biker’s and runners! I figured I would go the usual path to Upchuck and then decide from there how far I wanted to go. I knew I would not have much of a chance to exercise tomorrow, so better make it a good distance today. Without the other Roses to spark conversation my head just wondered to other pressing matters. I needed to clean up the yard and it would be a good day for that. I had to do laundry and then pack for my business trip to Toronto. I needed to put away all the bedding from the Improv Invasion last week. Not to mention a number of work tasks that have piled up this week. Most matters were solved somewhere between Greenhope HS and the top of Upchuck, but I knew I would have trouble recalling what the solutions were with the same clarity once I got home.
The top of Upchuck I stopped to strip, blow nose and decide which way next. The new jacket folded into its own pocket exposing a waste strap. The tights covering my bike shorts and unshaven winter white legs had to go as well. I stuffed them in the pouch, fastened it around my waste and took a swig of water. It was quite breezy, so far I had been battling a slight head wind and turning towards Lake Jordan would be directly into the wind. Better to go with the headwind first and then I will be pushed on the return! Good strategy. I headed right, out past Mt. Pisgah church, left on Farrel and then right at the T all the way to 721. I past the refurbished boat, which looked very close to being ocean ready and the nursery which seemed ready for the Spring planting frenzy. With the exception of an occasional clearing, the trees on the side of the road sheltered me from the full force of the wind, The left turn on to Farrington was a partial relief. Then I tacked left onto Horton’s Pond, sat up in my seat and let the tail wind enhance my acceleration. Nice! Payback for all the work. I floated back to 721 with the bliss only interrupted by an A**hole in a white pickup, who came speeding by within inches of my elbow! There was no one else on the rode! I contemplated the rant I would inflict on him if I was ever given that opportunity. Soon I was back to Green Level and took the right all the way to Green Level Church Rd. I then took a left into the wind and up hill so I could come in on Green Hope School Rd. I lifted my bike over the NO Trespassing RR tracks, stretched a bit and knew the wind would be my friend the remainder of the ride. I made it back to Bruegger’s before noon with close to 35 miles at a 13.8 average (good for a rose by any name). It was a sweet ride for this one rose.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Frost Bite 50 ride and Sunday recovery ride
The frost bite 50 ride Saturday Feb 23rd 2008.
A great turn out.
Steve Sparano and two of his friends Lou Soleo and Zingo ( he has no other name, kind of like Madonna) that have not yet ridden with our group, Ron and Traci Clanton, Theresa and Kevin Smit, Christine and her sister, Jim Palatran, Tim Travitz, Michael Huckabee, Norris Townsend, Bob Holtz all participated in the days ride.
Christine and her sister planed to complete the 100 mile loop. Everyone else was not committed to any specific distance and planed to make that decision at the 29 mile rest stop. The day started off colder than the weatherman predicted. It also was overcast, foggy, and a slight wind. Sun Glasses were changed out with lenses that were clear or yellow to allow for the low contrast generated by the overcast sky. Everyone in the group agreed to not get caught up in the adrenaline rush of the start and the pull of the draft lines. The Testosterone and Smell the Roses riders all assembled at the start among the 280 other riders. A brief welcome ceremony was conducted and the mob was launched onto the back roads of Johnston county. Immediately each rider was engulfed by others around them and the group that had assembled was in total disarray. Kevin as well as the others found themselves just trying to keep out of danger from other riders while trying to locate someone they knew. As the miles began to unfold each of the riders in the Testosterone group (accept Christine and her Sister, and Jim Palastran) found one another and formed a strong draft line. This draft line at times grew as others latched on. At one point the numbers likely reached 30 or more riders working to stay in the draft created by the Testosterone Team. Early on Kevin, Bob, Norris, and Ron all took turns at the front. The pace was a very respectable 20 miles per hour at the 29 mile mark. By then Ron had established himself once again as the locomotive with everyone else doing their best to hold onto his rear wheel. It was at this rest stop that the Testosterone group splintered. Ron, Bob, Norris and Kevin all electing to tackle the 62 mile route. Steve, his friends, and Tim electing to complete the 40 mile route at a continued blistering pace. Theresa and Traci representing the “Smell the Roses” were riding their own controlled ride with the early plan to complete the 40 mile ride. This would prove to be the longest of the season for those riders. Those doing the 62 mile route slowed to a more comfortable pace of 17 – 21 miles per hour with Ron leading the charge. The ride stayed cool and overcast. The winds continued to build with the hills coming in these last miles of the ride. Upon completion those doing the 62 miles averaged over 15 mph. All enjoyed the event, all had the longest ride of the season. Christine and her Sister and Jim may still be out on the route, as they were never seen. Maybe they just left the start and found a coffee shop and then went home. I doubt they will ever tell us if they did.
Congratulations to all.
Sunday Feb 24 2008.
Smell the Roses rode Umstead on Mountain Bikes.
They included; Carolyn and Steve Sparano their friends Richard and Theresa , Theresa Smit, and Jae Branard. The group rode the outer loop of Umstead. Lots of hills and a distance of 19 miles. Carolyn set the pace leaving all others in her dust. Theresa commented after the ride that this was far tougher than any of the road bike rides of the season.
The Testosterone riders met at in the parking lot of Brugers on a very windy Sunday morning. Tim Travitz and Kevin Smit replicated last Sundays ride. The major difference was that the did not see Deer and were not hassled by and elderly man in a pick up. They also rode the entire route together since Tim drove to the days start. Both Tim and Kevin were recovering from Saturdays hard charging Frost bite 50 organized ride. Even though they were recovering they both rode strong taking turns pulling from the front against a strong head wind. They completed the 34 miles at the same pace as Saturdays hard charging ride.
The riders of both groups are slowly building towards their summer legs.
A great turn out.
Steve Sparano and two of his friends Lou Soleo and Zingo ( he has no other name, kind of like Madonna) that have not yet ridden with our group, Ron and Traci Clanton, Theresa and Kevin Smit, Christine and her sister, Jim Palatran, Tim Travitz, Michael Huckabee, Norris Townsend, Bob Holtz all participated in the days ride.
Christine and her sister planed to complete the 100 mile loop. Everyone else was not committed to any specific distance and planed to make that decision at the 29 mile rest stop. The day started off colder than the weatherman predicted. It also was overcast, foggy, and a slight wind. Sun Glasses were changed out with lenses that were clear or yellow to allow for the low contrast generated by the overcast sky. Everyone in the group agreed to not get caught up in the adrenaline rush of the start and the pull of the draft lines. The Testosterone and Smell the Roses riders all assembled at the start among the 280 other riders. A brief welcome ceremony was conducted and the mob was launched onto the back roads of Johnston county. Immediately each rider was engulfed by others around them and the group that had assembled was in total disarray. Kevin as well as the others found themselves just trying to keep out of danger from other riders while trying to locate someone they knew. As the miles began to unfold each of the riders in the Testosterone group (accept Christine and her Sister, and Jim Palastran) found one another and formed a strong draft line. This draft line at times grew as others latched on. At one point the numbers likely reached 30 or more riders working to stay in the draft created by the Testosterone Team. Early on Kevin, Bob, Norris, and Ron all took turns at the front. The pace was a very respectable 20 miles per hour at the 29 mile mark. By then Ron had established himself once again as the locomotive with everyone else doing their best to hold onto his rear wheel. It was at this rest stop that the Testosterone group splintered. Ron, Bob, Norris and Kevin all electing to tackle the 62 mile route. Steve, his friends, and Tim electing to complete the 40 mile route at a continued blistering pace. Theresa and Traci representing the “Smell the Roses” were riding their own controlled ride with the early plan to complete the 40 mile ride. This would prove to be the longest of the season for those riders. Those doing the 62 mile route slowed to a more comfortable pace of 17 – 21 miles per hour with Ron leading the charge. The ride stayed cool and overcast. The winds continued to build with the hills coming in these last miles of the ride. Upon completion those doing the 62 miles averaged over 15 mph. All enjoyed the event, all had the longest ride of the season. Christine and her Sister and Jim may still be out on the route, as they were never seen. Maybe they just left the start and found a coffee shop and then went home. I doubt they will ever tell us if they did.
Congratulations to all.
Sunday Feb 24 2008.
Smell the Roses rode Umstead on Mountain Bikes.
They included; Carolyn and Steve Sparano their friends Richard and Theresa , Theresa Smit, and Jae Branard. The group rode the outer loop of Umstead. Lots of hills and a distance of 19 miles. Carolyn set the pace leaving all others in her dust. Theresa commented after the ride that this was far tougher than any of the road bike rides of the season.
The Testosterone riders met at in the parking lot of Brugers on a very windy Sunday morning. Tim Travitz and Kevin Smit replicated last Sundays ride. The major difference was that the did not see Deer and were not hassled by and elderly man in a pick up. They also rode the entire route together since Tim drove to the days start. Both Tim and Kevin were recovering from Saturdays hard charging Frost bite 50 organized ride. Even though they were recovering they both rode strong taking turns pulling from the front against a strong head wind. They completed the 34 miles at the same pace as Saturdays hard charging ride.
The riders of both groups are slowly building towards their summer legs.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Feb 16 and 17 2008 Weekend rides
Saturday Feb 16th ride.
The locamotive ride.
A great turnout.
In attendance representing the Testosterone group were:
Tim Travitz, Tod Pechner, Steve Sparano, Ron Clanton, David Bridenbaugh, Christine (triathlete), and Kevin Smit.
Christine wanted to know were the Chipmunk was. If you recall the last time she rode with us she wanted to know were the little dog was.
Oddly enough everyone knew who she was inquiring about.
Steve Cope (the Chihuahua ). Steve’s high energy and constant yapping can only be described as the human version of a Chihuahua.
Those representing the “Smell the Roses” included:
Traci Clanton, Jae Brainard, Theresa Smit.
A great group of riders
Today’s ride is best described as the Ron and David Locomotive Ride.
These two riders set the pace and the distance for the Testosterone group.
Ron started it with emails announcing that he was up for a 50 mile ride and David Bridenbaugh was fully on board with that idea. In reading this chain of emails Kevin was hoping that both Ron and David would not make it to the start of the ride. Kevin knew that it only takes one fool for the pack to follow.
Ron and David are planning to ride the full 100 miles of the Frost bite 50 next weekend.
It is called the Frost bite 50 not the Frost bite 100. Hmmm.
Many others who have signed up from the group are planning on the 40 miler.
So with Ron and David at the lead, the group of Testosterone rides rocketed out of the parking lot and onto High House. The start was much like a Locomotive lunging forward with all the other rail cars bumping and jerking into line.
The group stretched and contracted as each rider worked to find the correct spin and gear for this aggressive start. Ron is notorious for his hard charging style at the start of each ride. In the past this was not an issue as the group usually would reel Ron in as the ride unfolds. This was not the case this day. Ron and David worked as the locomotives pulling a heavy train up steep grades and along straight tracks.
Their efforts splintered the group on several occasions. The first being the long straight shot along Carpenter Upchurch road which takes the rides past Green Hope High School.
As this fist locomotive pull began Kevin and Christine quickly fell off the pack. “Don’t let me hold you back” Christine said to Kevin. In a broken response created by labored breathing Kevin replied “ You are not holding me back, I am slow to warm up”. “Besides they will burn themselves out and we will slowly reel them back in”. Little did Kevin know that Ron and David had other ideas for today’s ride.
The lead group did hold up at the next intersection to let the stragglers re-attach to the train. A more sane pace was provided as the group wound thru the turns and rough roads leading to the next long run after crossing highway 55.
On this section of road the pack was again stretching and contracting as the pace began to build. For at least a couple of miles on Carpenter Fire Station Road the pack was zooming along at 29 miles per hour. Again the group splintered as they reached the turn toward UpChuck Hill.
UpChuck presented its usual challenge to all. Ron and David with Todd and Tim all attacked the hill leaving Steve, Christine, and Kevin doing their very best to summit the hill without blowing a knee cap, or sending their heart rate monitors into the twilight zone.
Right at the top of the hill found the lead group circling as if vultures waiting for the wounded to show themselves. Back into a pack again for a short time as the locomotives showed no concern for the rolling hills that lay ahead, let alone the increase in today’s planed distance, and the groups current average speed.
One the group rode with the continued splintering and reassembling of the pack until the turn onto 751. Here again the lead group of David, Ron, Todd, and Tim swept thru the turn and then made the immediate left onto Holland Chapel Road. This road is a little rough with several small inclines. The trailing group made the turn onto 751 but elected to travel past the first turn and instead made the left onto Martha Chapel Road. This road is very smooth and is mostly down hill. Kevin, Christine, and Steve all road comfortably with no intention of trying to see if they could get to the intersection at Farrington road before the Locomotives would. Oddly enough this splintered group of three made it to that intersection before the hard charging lead group. “Lets all regroup with a short stop at the corner store at Lystra and Farrington” Kevin barked to the riders as they screamed past on their way down Farrington from Holland Chapel. With out hesitation this lead pack picked up their intense pace as they rushed past as to make sure the 3 stragglers had no hope of jumping onto the train.
By the time the 3 stragglers made it to the gas station/store at Lystra and Farrington road the lead group had already refueled, hydrated, and taken bio breaks. With this short stop quickly coming to an end Tim announced he was under a time constraint and needed to head for home. This was the first of several casualties generated by the intense pace of the locomotive team. At this same time the remaining riders were contemplating how much of Big Woods they would ride. Do they do an out and back and return the same route home, do they do Big Woods and then make the left turn at 64 and loop back onto Farrington. Christine still had 4 and ½ hours of riding to complete to accomplish her training ride. She planed to do the out and back and follow that up with the long steep climb up Lystra before she headed for home. This prompted Ron to suggest we ALL CLIMB Lystra first then do Big Woods. “You are F@#K#*& NUTS” Kevin shouted.
The pack all found this humorous as Ron was heard saying “What? was that a bad idea ?”
The vote was to do Big Woods with the turn onto High Way 64.
Once at the turn of Jack Bennett Rd and Big Woods the Locomotives again took control. They charged up the first long climb with Tim in toe. Kevin, Christine, Steve, and Todd were slow to respond at first. Then Todd climbed out of the saddle and spun to close the gap on the lead group. His actions were very similar to the type of response one sees from the Chihuahua. That lead group now with 4 strong riders did not let head wind or hills intimidate them. The gap grew greater as they charged ahead. The splintered group did their best to form their own pace line and maintained a respectable 20 – 23 mph charge along this stretch.
Once at the intersection of Big Woods and 64 the two groups were united. Christine was realizing that normally she is 2 hours into here routine ride at this point but today’s blistering pace had her there a full half hour early. This means she has to do more miles to accomplish her objective of 5 ½ hours in the saddle. She figured she would have to ride Big Woods back and then Out and Back again before climbing Lystra. Kevin suggested that a better plan would be to find a nice shady picnic table where she can rest. As long as she keeps one hand on the bike during her extended rest it would count towards time on the bike.
The group wished her a safe ride and with that the group was down one more rider.
Onto 64 with the pack now consisting of David, Ron, Todd, Kevin, and Steve. The head wind was on full force into the face. The climb from Lake Jordan to Farrington Road laid ahead. Kevin did all he could to suck on the rear tire of the pack. He was able to maintain this for about 30 seconds. Steve never even had a chance to regroup as the pack took off before he made it through the intersection of Big Woods and 64. So know the Testosterone riders were 3 strong and two splintered solo riders.
Once on Farrington and then on Horton Pond the group remained in tact. The Locomotives had accomplished their objective of ride hard, ride long, and now decided to protect the weaker riders by riding at a reasonable 16 mph pace and block the wind for those who had struggled all day.
As the riders headed back to the start Todd pealed off to head for his house as he had ridden to the start from home. Also David Bridenbaugh said good by with just 4 miles to go to the start because he like Todd and Tim had ridden to the start of today’s ride from home. The three remaining riders wound their way through Preston by making several turns that ultimately had them climbing the long gradual climb on CrabTree Crossing.
Ron in the lead easily making the grade followed by Steve and bringing up the rear Kevin. Kevin had been cramping for the last 10 miles. With each turn of the peddles either thigh or calf would warn him of a pending full on cramp. With this knowledge Kevin knew he could not climb out the saddle to respond to a hill. He also knew that he could not increase nor decrease his cadence. Any change in motion would surely produce a debilitating cramp. Kevin shifted and shifted again to meet the ever increasing grade of this last climb. Now his thighs and calves on both legs were simultaneously twitching with the warnings of a full on cramp. A cramp that would be so sever Kevin would have no choice other than to glide to a stop and fall over just like the character on Roan and Martin’s laugh-in did as he road to a stop on his tricycle only to tip over.
A challenging ride for some.
A rewarding ride for all.
The Testosterone group completed 52 miles at just over a 15 mph average.
The smell the Roses riders covered over 20 miles and had a great time visiting and sharing stories.
Sunday Feb 17th ride.
Two riders for the smell the roses included.
Theresa Smit and Jae Brainard.
Those representing the Testosterone riders included Kevin Smit and Tim Travitz.
Kevin and Tim left the parking lot at a reasonable pace and agreed to keep the ride smooth and steady. Tim had ridden to the start and already had well over 7 miles in the saddle. Kevin was working through his slow warm up period. As the two traveled along the normal route they elected to flatten out the days ride by going straight at the top of Up-Chuck hill and then right onto Lutter Shop road. This team enjoyed the long stretch along this part of the ride. One of the events that added to the experience was 4 deer standing in the middle of the road looking at what was headed their way. As Tim and Kevin were surprised to see 2 additional deer bolt from the woods at the edge of the road and dance across the street into the woods on the other side. This prompted the other 4 to follow suit. It was wonderful to see that all the development has not yet destroyed all wild life in the area. Tim and Kevin made the turn onto 751 and then the left onto Martha Chapel road. On this favorite smooth downhill stretch of road these two riders encountered another type of wild animal. This was not an uplifting experience as this wild animal lashed out at the two riders. Tim and Kevin were riding side by side on a quite portion of the road with no yellow lines and no oncoming traffic. Kevin was checking out the conditions in his mirror and noticed that a White Pick Up Truck had suddenly appeared in the short time between his last glance in the mirror and now. Seeing this Kevin sat up tall in the saddle and announced to Tim that an Asshole had just arrived to harass them. Just as Kevin made this comment the driver positioned the bumper of his pick up truck within inches of the rear tires of the bike riders as if he was needing to draft. Kevin slowly turned his head to make eye contact with this aggressive driver to notice it was an elderly man. Upon eye contact the driver made the decision to complete a valid (delayed ) lane change. As this elderly man accelerated to pass he extended his middle finger to share with the bike riders his opinion of our purpose in life.
Kevin thanked the individual for making a proper lane change and passing maneuver. Both bike riders were then able to relax and again and slipped back into the healthy zone of exercise. Just as they did the pick up truck began to slow as if to antagonize from in front since it didn’t work from the rear attack. The riders did not slow and continued on their path with the gap between them and the now stopped pickup truck closing rapidly.
As the riders reached the tail gate they could see the driver signaling them to come up to the driver side window. Kevin seeing that there was a double yellow line took the effort to help the driver recognize he was asking the bikers to pass on the double yellow line.
Frustrated with his lack of driving rules knowledge the driver speed on to what ever destination he had. From that point on the riders were able to enjoy the rest of their biking experience without further hazel. Upon the trip back towards the start/finish Tim checked to make sure Kevin had the strength to complete the last seven miles as Tim planed to turn towards home as their route passed by his home. The two separated with the last seven miles yet to unfold. On into the finish both riders continued Tim with only yards to complete and Kevin with seven miles to complete.
Another successful ride with plenty to remember and share.
34 miles at 15 mph average.
The locamotive ride.
A great turnout.
In attendance representing the Testosterone group were:
Tim Travitz, Tod Pechner, Steve Sparano, Ron Clanton, David Bridenbaugh, Christine (triathlete), and Kevin Smit.
Christine wanted to know were the Chipmunk was. If you recall the last time she rode with us she wanted to know were the little dog was.
Oddly enough everyone knew who she was inquiring about.
Steve Cope (the Chihuahua ). Steve’s high energy and constant yapping can only be described as the human version of a Chihuahua.
Those representing the “Smell the Roses” included:
Traci Clanton, Jae Brainard, Theresa Smit.
A great group of riders
Today’s ride is best described as the Ron and David Locomotive Ride.
These two riders set the pace and the distance for the Testosterone group.
Ron started it with emails announcing that he was up for a 50 mile ride and David Bridenbaugh was fully on board with that idea. In reading this chain of emails Kevin was hoping that both Ron and David would not make it to the start of the ride. Kevin knew that it only takes one fool for the pack to follow.
Ron and David are planning to ride the full 100 miles of the Frost bite 50 next weekend.
It is called the Frost bite 50 not the Frost bite 100. Hmmm.
Many others who have signed up from the group are planning on the 40 miler.
So with Ron and David at the lead, the group of Testosterone rides rocketed out of the parking lot and onto High House. The start was much like a Locomotive lunging forward with all the other rail cars bumping and jerking into line.
The group stretched and contracted as each rider worked to find the correct spin and gear for this aggressive start. Ron is notorious for his hard charging style at the start of each ride. In the past this was not an issue as the group usually would reel Ron in as the ride unfolds. This was not the case this day. Ron and David worked as the locomotives pulling a heavy train up steep grades and along straight tracks.
Their efforts splintered the group on several occasions. The first being the long straight shot along Carpenter Upchurch road which takes the rides past Green Hope High School.
As this fist locomotive pull began Kevin and Christine quickly fell off the pack. “Don’t let me hold you back” Christine said to Kevin. In a broken response created by labored breathing Kevin replied “ You are not holding me back, I am slow to warm up”. “Besides they will burn themselves out and we will slowly reel them back in”. Little did Kevin know that Ron and David had other ideas for today’s ride.
The lead group did hold up at the next intersection to let the stragglers re-attach to the train. A more sane pace was provided as the group wound thru the turns and rough roads leading to the next long run after crossing highway 55.
On this section of road the pack was again stretching and contracting as the pace began to build. For at least a couple of miles on Carpenter Fire Station Road the pack was zooming along at 29 miles per hour. Again the group splintered as they reached the turn toward UpChuck Hill.
UpChuck presented its usual challenge to all. Ron and David with Todd and Tim all attacked the hill leaving Steve, Christine, and Kevin doing their very best to summit the hill without blowing a knee cap, or sending their heart rate monitors into the twilight zone.
Right at the top of the hill found the lead group circling as if vultures waiting for the wounded to show themselves. Back into a pack again for a short time as the locomotives showed no concern for the rolling hills that lay ahead, let alone the increase in today’s planed distance, and the groups current average speed.
One the group rode with the continued splintering and reassembling of the pack until the turn onto 751. Here again the lead group of David, Ron, Todd, and Tim swept thru the turn and then made the immediate left onto Holland Chapel Road. This road is a little rough with several small inclines. The trailing group made the turn onto 751 but elected to travel past the first turn and instead made the left onto Martha Chapel Road. This road is very smooth and is mostly down hill. Kevin, Christine, and Steve all road comfortably with no intention of trying to see if they could get to the intersection at Farrington road before the Locomotives would. Oddly enough this splintered group of three made it to that intersection before the hard charging lead group. “Lets all regroup with a short stop at the corner store at Lystra and Farrington” Kevin barked to the riders as they screamed past on their way down Farrington from Holland Chapel. With out hesitation this lead pack picked up their intense pace as they rushed past as to make sure the 3 stragglers had no hope of jumping onto the train.
By the time the 3 stragglers made it to the gas station/store at Lystra and Farrington road the lead group had already refueled, hydrated, and taken bio breaks. With this short stop quickly coming to an end Tim announced he was under a time constraint and needed to head for home. This was the first of several casualties generated by the intense pace of the locomotive team. At this same time the remaining riders were contemplating how much of Big Woods they would ride. Do they do an out and back and return the same route home, do they do Big Woods and then make the left turn at 64 and loop back onto Farrington. Christine still had 4 and ½ hours of riding to complete to accomplish her training ride. She planed to do the out and back and follow that up with the long steep climb up Lystra before she headed for home. This prompted Ron to suggest we ALL CLIMB Lystra first then do Big Woods. “You are F@#K#*& NUTS” Kevin shouted.
The pack all found this humorous as Ron was heard saying “What? was that a bad idea ?”
The vote was to do Big Woods with the turn onto High Way 64.
Once at the turn of Jack Bennett Rd and Big Woods the Locomotives again took control. They charged up the first long climb with Tim in toe. Kevin, Christine, Steve, and Todd were slow to respond at first. Then Todd climbed out of the saddle and spun to close the gap on the lead group. His actions were very similar to the type of response one sees from the Chihuahua. That lead group now with 4 strong riders did not let head wind or hills intimidate them. The gap grew greater as they charged ahead. The splintered group did their best to form their own pace line and maintained a respectable 20 – 23 mph charge along this stretch.
Once at the intersection of Big Woods and 64 the two groups were united. Christine was realizing that normally she is 2 hours into here routine ride at this point but today’s blistering pace had her there a full half hour early. This means she has to do more miles to accomplish her objective of 5 ½ hours in the saddle. She figured she would have to ride Big Woods back and then Out and Back again before climbing Lystra. Kevin suggested that a better plan would be to find a nice shady picnic table where she can rest. As long as she keeps one hand on the bike during her extended rest it would count towards time on the bike.
The group wished her a safe ride and with that the group was down one more rider.
Onto 64 with the pack now consisting of David, Ron, Todd, Kevin, and Steve. The head wind was on full force into the face. The climb from Lake Jordan to Farrington Road laid ahead. Kevin did all he could to suck on the rear tire of the pack. He was able to maintain this for about 30 seconds. Steve never even had a chance to regroup as the pack took off before he made it through the intersection of Big Woods and 64. So know the Testosterone riders were 3 strong and two splintered solo riders.
Once on Farrington and then on Horton Pond the group remained in tact. The Locomotives had accomplished their objective of ride hard, ride long, and now decided to protect the weaker riders by riding at a reasonable 16 mph pace and block the wind for those who had struggled all day.
As the riders headed back to the start Todd pealed off to head for his house as he had ridden to the start from home. Also David Bridenbaugh said good by with just 4 miles to go to the start because he like Todd and Tim had ridden to the start of today’s ride from home. The three remaining riders wound their way through Preston by making several turns that ultimately had them climbing the long gradual climb on CrabTree Crossing.
Ron in the lead easily making the grade followed by Steve and bringing up the rear Kevin. Kevin had been cramping for the last 10 miles. With each turn of the peddles either thigh or calf would warn him of a pending full on cramp. With this knowledge Kevin knew he could not climb out the saddle to respond to a hill. He also knew that he could not increase nor decrease his cadence. Any change in motion would surely produce a debilitating cramp. Kevin shifted and shifted again to meet the ever increasing grade of this last climb. Now his thighs and calves on both legs were simultaneously twitching with the warnings of a full on cramp. A cramp that would be so sever Kevin would have no choice other than to glide to a stop and fall over just like the character on Roan and Martin’s laugh-in did as he road to a stop on his tricycle only to tip over.
A challenging ride for some.
A rewarding ride for all.
The Testosterone group completed 52 miles at just over a 15 mph average.
The smell the Roses riders covered over 20 miles and had a great time visiting and sharing stories.
Sunday Feb 17th ride.
Two riders for the smell the roses included.
Theresa Smit and Jae Brainard.
Those representing the Testosterone riders included Kevin Smit and Tim Travitz.
Kevin and Tim left the parking lot at a reasonable pace and agreed to keep the ride smooth and steady. Tim had ridden to the start and already had well over 7 miles in the saddle. Kevin was working through his slow warm up period. As the two traveled along the normal route they elected to flatten out the days ride by going straight at the top of Up-Chuck hill and then right onto Lutter Shop road. This team enjoyed the long stretch along this part of the ride. One of the events that added to the experience was 4 deer standing in the middle of the road looking at what was headed their way. As Tim and Kevin were surprised to see 2 additional deer bolt from the woods at the edge of the road and dance across the street into the woods on the other side. This prompted the other 4 to follow suit. It was wonderful to see that all the development has not yet destroyed all wild life in the area. Tim and Kevin made the turn onto 751 and then the left onto Martha Chapel road. On this favorite smooth downhill stretch of road these two riders encountered another type of wild animal. This was not an uplifting experience as this wild animal lashed out at the two riders. Tim and Kevin were riding side by side on a quite portion of the road with no yellow lines and no oncoming traffic. Kevin was checking out the conditions in his mirror and noticed that a White Pick Up Truck had suddenly appeared in the short time between his last glance in the mirror and now. Seeing this Kevin sat up tall in the saddle and announced to Tim that an Asshole had just arrived to harass them. Just as Kevin made this comment the driver positioned the bumper of his pick up truck within inches of the rear tires of the bike riders as if he was needing to draft. Kevin slowly turned his head to make eye contact with this aggressive driver to notice it was an elderly man. Upon eye contact the driver made the decision to complete a valid (delayed ) lane change. As this elderly man accelerated to pass he extended his middle finger to share with the bike riders his opinion of our purpose in life.
Kevin thanked the individual for making a proper lane change and passing maneuver. Both bike riders were then able to relax and again and slipped back into the healthy zone of exercise. Just as they did the pick up truck began to slow as if to antagonize from in front since it didn’t work from the rear attack. The riders did not slow and continued on their path with the gap between them and the now stopped pickup truck closing rapidly.
As the riders reached the tail gate they could see the driver signaling them to come up to the driver side window. Kevin seeing that there was a double yellow line took the effort to help the driver recognize he was asking the bikers to pass on the double yellow line.
Frustrated with his lack of driving rules knowledge the driver speed on to what ever destination he had. From that point on the riders were able to enjoy the rest of their biking experience without further hazel. Upon the trip back towards the start/finish Tim checked to make sure Kevin had the strength to complete the last seven miles as Tim planed to turn towards home as their route passed by his home. The two separated with the last seven miles yet to unfold. On into the finish both riders continued Tim with only yards to complete and Kevin with seven miles to complete.
Another successful ride with plenty to remember and share.
34 miles at 15 mph average.
Monday, February 04, 2008
Feb 2nd and 3rd "where were you"
Saturday Feb 2nd
The Mini me discovery ride.
Today’s ride had a total of 4 riders. Two formed the Testosterone ride and two formed the Smell the Roses Ride. In attendance for the Testosterone riders were; Christine (Tri-Pink-athlete) and Kevin Smit. This was Christine’s first start with the group. She has ridden part of the route once as she and her pack of Tri-athletes swarmed past several weeks ago. She elected to fall off the pace of her group and join the more social Testosterone riders. You can read more about the ride in the Blogg’s write up for the weekend of Jan 12th. Christine did ask where the little dog was. Kevin though about that with a puzzled look on his face prompting Christine to rephrase her question. “ you know the little guy that talks a lot.” “Oh, you mean the Chihuahua– Steve Cope”. “Yes the high energy guy”. Alas Steve did not make today’s ride. In attendance for the Smell the Roses riders were; Jae (always ready to ride) Brainard, and Theresa (when do I get my new bike) Smit. The temp was in the upper 30’s with the promise of reaching mid 50’s to low 60’s by rides end. The sun was out and the wind was light. This should prove to be a smooth days ride. Kevin and Theresa both were still in the last stages of being sick and were hoping for an easy days ride. The two groups started the ride with a gap forming early as the riders turned into the Preston neighborhood. Kevin and Christine road side by side – remember Tri-athletes are not allow to draft. Christine is in the final training phases for her Ironman competition in April. The two rode at a comfortable pace allowing for conversation and occasional jockeying to form a single file as cars passed, then regroup to ride again side by side. Conversation included politics, training plans, nutrition, and work. This team elected to skip the climb at Up-Chuck by skirting around it through the new development. This is longer and provides a gradual climb ending at the top of Up-Chuck with the heart rate well within the target Zone. Eventually these riders found themselves at the corner of 751 and the strawberry patch. To their amazement the Yacht that is being refurbished was joined by a 21 ft version of itself. Same hull design and color scheme sitting on a trailer. Speculation is that it is the yacht’s dinghy. On they rode to the corner at Martha Chapel were they turned towards Lake Jordan. Kevin learned that Christine was planning on a 6 hr day. To accomplish this she had to make the right turn at lake Jordan, do the out and back on Big Woods, and still needed to climb Lystra before considering turning back for home. Kevin was not prepared for that many hours in the saddle or that many miles, or Hills. They parted company at Lake Jordan with Kevin heading back solo and Christine headed for hours of solo riding, knowing that on Sunday she would follow today’s long ride with a long run. Kevin altered his ride home by incorporating the route the Smell the Roses take during the home stretch. This decision had Kevin heading back into the Preston neighborhood, with a left turn towards Morrisville parkway, and a turn onto crabtree crossing parkway. This road worked its way through another section of Preston and dumped into Cary Parkway just above the Bruger’s parking lot. In total Kevin rode 35 miles at a 15.3 Mph pace.
Sunday. Feb 3rd – Kiehls 27th Birthday and Super Bowl Sunday Day.
Another low turn out of riders as the Smell the Roses riders from Saturday also made up all those riders again today. The Testosterone riders were represented by David Bridenbaugh and Kevin Smit. Today’s ride was much like Yesterdays ride. The riders rode side by side in a comfortable pace with conversation that touched on politics, work, training rides, and nutrition. The route was the same how ever the riders did elect to climb Up-Chuck resulting in heart rate monitors beeping as each rider exceeded the target zone. These two riders followed the normal 32 mile route with little interact of other riders that were out on the roads. Traffic was respectful, temperatures were warmer than Saturday, and wind was light. Both Kevin and David did a good job of consuming plenty of water on the ride and monitored each others situation. At the start of the ride David was suggesting the group could go further than the standard distance. David also mentioned that he and his wife were planning on going our later that same day on mountain bikes to get a ride in together. As the ride continued to unfold both riders elected to keep the original miles as the day’s goal. David did come to the realization that he had not eaten anything prior to the ride and was starting to feel the beginnings of an energy drain (bonk). Now he was contemplating no afternoon mountain bike ride.The ride ended with David and Kevin splitting at Carpenter Upchurch and High House. David headed straight home and Kevin headed down High House to the start/finish at Brugers parking lot. This group rode 33 miles at a 15 mile per hour pace.
The Mini me discovery ride.
Today’s ride had a total of 4 riders. Two formed the Testosterone ride and two formed the Smell the Roses Ride. In attendance for the Testosterone riders were; Christine (Tri-Pink-athlete) and Kevin Smit. This was Christine’s first start with the group. She has ridden part of the route once as she and her pack of Tri-athletes swarmed past several weeks ago. She elected to fall off the pace of her group and join the more social Testosterone riders. You can read more about the ride in the Blogg’s write up for the weekend of Jan 12th. Christine did ask where the little dog was. Kevin though about that with a puzzled look on his face prompting Christine to rephrase her question. “ you know the little guy that talks a lot.” “Oh, you mean the Chihuahua– Steve Cope”. “Yes the high energy guy”. Alas Steve did not make today’s ride. In attendance for the Smell the Roses riders were; Jae (always ready to ride) Brainard, and Theresa (when do I get my new bike) Smit. The temp was in the upper 30’s with the promise of reaching mid 50’s to low 60’s by rides end. The sun was out and the wind was light. This should prove to be a smooth days ride. Kevin and Theresa both were still in the last stages of being sick and were hoping for an easy days ride. The two groups started the ride with a gap forming early as the riders turned into the Preston neighborhood. Kevin and Christine road side by side – remember Tri-athletes are not allow to draft. Christine is in the final training phases for her Ironman competition in April. The two rode at a comfortable pace allowing for conversation and occasional jockeying to form a single file as cars passed, then regroup to ride again side by side. Conversation included politics, training plans, nutrition, and work. This team elected to skip the climb at Up-Chuck by skirting around it through the new development. This is longer and provides a gradual climb ending at the top of Up-Chuck with the heart rate well within the target Zone. Eventually these riders found themselves at the corner of 751 and the strawberry patch. To their amazement the Yacht that is being refurbished was joined by a 21 ft version of itself. Same hull design and color scheme sitting on a trailer. Speculation is that it is the yacht’s dinghy. On they rode to the corner at Martha Chapel were they turned towards Lake Jordan. Kevin learned that Christine was planning on a 6 hr day. To accomplish this she had to make the right turn at lake Jordan, do the out and back on Big Woods, and still needed to climb Lystra before considering turning back for home. Kevin was not prepared for that many hours in the saddle or that many miles, or Hills. They parted company at Lake Jordan with Kevin heading back solo and Christine headed for hours of solo riding, knowing that on Sunday she would follow today’s long ride with a long run. Kevin altered his ride home by incorporating the route the Smell the Roses take during the home stretch. This decision had Kevin heading back into the Preston neighborhood, with a left turn towards Morrisville parkway, and a turn onto crabtree crossing parkway. This road worked its way through another section of Preston and dumped into Cary Parkway just above the Bruger’s parking lot. In total Kevin rode 35 miles at a 15.3 Mph pace.
Sunday. Feb 3rd – Kiehls 27th Birthday and Super Bowl Sunday Day.
Another low turn out of riders as the Smell the Roses riders from Saturday also made up all those riders again today. The Testosterone riders were represented by David Bridenbaugh and Kevin Smit. Today’s ride was much like Yesterdays ride. The riders rode side by side in a comfortable pace with conversation that touched on politics, work, training rides, and nutrition. The route was the same how ever the riders did elect to climb Up-Chuck resulting in heart rate monitors beeping as each rider exceeded the target zone. These two riders followed the normal 32 mile route with little interact of other riders that were out on the roads. Traffic was respectful, temperatures were warmer than Saturday, and wind was light. Both Kevin and David did a good job of consuming plenty of water on the ride and monitored each others situation. At the start of the ride David was suggesting the group could go further than the standard distance. David also mentioned that he and his wife were planning on going our later that same day on mountain bikes to get a ride in together. As the ride continued to unfold both riders elected to keep the original miles as the day’s goal. David did come to the realization that he had not eaten anything prior to the ride and was starting to feel the beginnings of an energy drain (bonk). Now he was contemplating no afternoon mountain bike ride.The ride ended with David and Kevin splitting at Carpenter Upchurch and High House. David headed straight home and Kevin headed down High House to the start/finish at Brugers parking lot. This group rode 33 miles at a 15 mile per hour pace.
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Jan 12 and 13th 2008 rides (a short novel by Kevin Smit)
A weekend of Tri-asshole-lete encounters.
Saturday Jan 12th
We will title today’s ride
Clanton’s set the pace for a hard driving ride.
In attendance:
Theresa and Kevin Smit, Ron and Traci Clanton (again on single bikes, no tandem), Steve Cope, Beth Gonzalez (who has rejoined the group after almost a year), and Beth’s friend Patti Lewis who is riding with the group for the first time.
Welcome Patti.
Today’s ride once again had Ron setting the pace early. We have also learned that Traci Clanton was also pushing the pace for the “Smell the Roses” riders. The Clanton’s must share their nutrition and workout plans with the rest of the group.
As the two groups rode through the early stages of the ride they all approached the first short climb of the day together. Kevin looking in his mirror saw a large group of riders swallowing up the Smell the Roses and bearing down on the Testosterone riders. The pack behind was kept at bay with the help of the light at Davis drive. The Testosterone group managed to slip through that light before it changed bringing the oncoming herd to a halt. On through the light and into the round about as Ron Clanton was showing an aggressive/competitive tendency with Steve Cope bantering. “I think there is a girl in that group”. “I won’t be passed by a girl”. Adrenaline could be felt starting to surge through each of the riders as they looked across the round about only to see the pack of riders who were in pursuit taking the shorter path through the round about. “Whimps” Steve Cope was heard to say. No comment from Ron just results as he pressed on harder than before. Within seven peddle strokes Ron and Steve had joined the ranks of this pursuing, now leading, pack of riders. Both Ron and Steve slowly worked their way from the back of that pack to the front. As they rode past each member of the group they sized them up.
This is accomplished in several steps.
1. Ride next to the person to see if they respond with a slight bump in cadence and speed. The old game of no ones wheel gets ahead of mine. – if no surge then they either know the game and are not yet willing to show what they are capable of, or they have nothing to show and are not a threat.
2. Strike up a short conversation. The opening statement is very important. It must be framed in a manner that requires a long reply. Something like “What route are your taking and what pace are you planning on?”. A friendly and inquisitive opening remark that will require a descriptive response. It is important to observe how the other rider responds. If they offer a long description with arm waving and directional pointing while maintaining or increasing the pace, and are not the least bit winded in its delivery then this rider is one to be concerned about. If they look at you and barely grunt a reply then they are either already suffering, or they are a Tri-asshole-lete.
Definition of a Tri-asshole-lete :
a bread of competitive animal that does not enjoy workouts and definitely do not enjoy sharing its misery with anyone. They are driven by a total lack of self esteem and limited self worth. They have chosen a sport that is completely solo in nature. The rules of the sport do not allow drafting or support from others during the event. Solo and solitary is the mind set. This suggests that the workouts are best accomplished solo, and on rare occasions with others only to learn how to survive as a member of a thundering herd. When practicing in a herd do not create any bond with others because they like you are there for themselves only.
Tri-asshole-letes need to learn RULE # 6.
Rule # 6 states – Never Take Yourself Too Seriously.
3. Once steps one and two are completed then apply pressure in ever increasing increments. Watch what unfolds and hold on for as long as you can. Be prepared to either lead and pull the group along for a great distance, or slip into the pack and draft to survive, or get dropped.
A Great Game that is likely to take place several times on any given ride.
Ron and Steve quickly learned that this pack of riders were made up of a mix of young and old male and female Tri-asshole-letes. They were planning on doing 40 miles in two hours as a herd. There was one female named Christine ( we learn her name later in the ride) who was not in tune with the herds sense of direction or purpose for the days ride. Christine was planning to ride for 4 hours at a more reasonable pace.
Once this information was established Ron then applied step 3 to the game plan. He rolled forward through the pack to establish himself near the lead. He waited for the pack to make the right turn onto a long straight stretch of road that has rolling hills as it passes in front of Green Hope School. Once on the straight away Ron began applying pressure in increments that were hard to detect resulting in an ever increasing exponential increase in cadence and speed. Steve Cope was vibrating with excitement as he knew what game was afoot. Steve positioned himself right behind Ron to get the best draft possible and to destroy any reasonable draft for others. Steve is so small in stature that his draft actually disrupted the air flow pattern established by Ron. The sensation for others riding behind Steve would be similar to the buffeting generated when following a truck just outside the draft it creates. Ron and Steve pressed on through the right turn at the end of the straight away and to the left turn that followed. At this point the herd of Tri-asshole-letes elected to continue straight and to fall off the pace generated by Ron and Steve.
In the mean time Kevin and a female Tri-athlete (all in Pink – A Tri-Pink-alete) had maintained the more reasonable pace of 17 – 19 mph with a long discussion of how challenging it is to hold down a full time job and train properly for an Iron Man competition. We later learned her name was Christine, that is yet to be told in this write-up. Christine has a great attitude towards achieving her goal of doing a full distance Triathalon on April 13th in Arizona. Lets all wish her the best. Only down hills with tail winds for both the run and ride. Calm warm water with no other swimmers working to swim over her (this is actually a tactic that some Tri-Asshole-letes do to intimidate the competition).
Eventually Kevin and Christine were able to rejoin Ron and Steve as those two circled waiting for the slower riders of the group to catch up. Christine announced that she was happy to see Ron and Steve attack the herd. She said that when the group first spotted us from behind they all commented that we looked like easy pray.
HA.
The reformed group of Testosterone riders, Christine included, began the journey along Fire Station Church Road and towards the base of UpChuck. Lots of banter was generated as usual with Steve letting our new group member know that there is a fee with ride with us. She was quick to guess that a six pack of beer is all Steve was after. With that short exchange Christine was fully anointed as one of the Testosterone riders. We still had not learned her name at this point. Down the hill headed for the climb on UpChuck. All complained about how they hated this hill. Ron attacked from the front. Steve shot a quick glance over at Kevin as if to say “is he serious? Are you ready to respond?”. A short delay from Kevin is all Steve needed to know. Steve is on his own. Kevin could see Steve estimate the distance between Ron and himself and the distance to the top of the hill.
Steve elected to delay his attack for just and instant. Then as if a pit bull unleashed from his chain Steve exploded out of the saddle and scampered up the hill. Just as Steve matched Ron’s front tire Ron collapsed from his valiant yet feeble attempt at taking the poke-a-dot jersey for being the best hill climber of the day.
The groups slowed and worked to reassemble on the road just past UpChuck hill.
Ron now drew his attention to this new rider in the group. “Hi my name is Ron Clanton what is your name”. “Christine” the new team member announced. Ron then rode up to Kevin and Steve to tell them that Christine is a very solid rider. Kevin looked puzzled for an instant only to realize that he had already spent close to 30 minutes visiting with her and did not think to introduce himself or to learn her name. This generated a great deal of rhetoric directed at Kevin’s lack of social skills.
Kevin had to confess that he was more interested in telling Christine all about himself and did not think to learn anything about her. “Its all about Me” he announced, adding to the banter. Ron and Steve were both quick to let Christine now that Kevin is Shallow and self centered and that they were not surprised that he had not tried to learn anything about her since it is all about him. This banter only endeared the group even more as they continued their journey through the rolling country side on their route to Martha Chapel and Lake Jordan. It was at this junction that Christine announced she was headed towards the longest and steepest climb in the adjacent 5 counties. This caught the groups attention as each tried to provide her an alternate route to get to where she was headed. Some how we believe she was now getting into her mental workout zone as a Tri-asshole-lete. The group did encourage Christine to join us on any Saturday or Sunday and provided information for her to email and get on the distribution list for the ride announcements. With that task being completed the group said their goodbyes with the Testosterone group headed back towards Cary and Christine on her solo trek to put 3 more hours in the saddle. I think each of the riders reflected on what and why they were out on the ride that day as the next several miles unfolded with little chit chat. As the group closed the gap on the finish line the banter again began to build. A turn onto Wimberly with its long slow grind from the Tobacco trail to Old Jenks road presented another opportunity for Ron Clanton to make a play for the poke-a-dot jersey. This was a slow motion reenactment of what transpired early on UpChuck. We applaud Ron for his continued killer instinct. The group was now back in formation again as they crossed over highway 54 and into the back side of Cary. Left turn into the neighborhoods and the last climb of the day. Ron again pressed ahead on the down hill to establish his attempt once again. Just as the group transitioned from down hill into the base of the climb Ron’s shifting technique resulted in a chain that elected to eject itself off of the rear cluster. Steve was already pulling ahead and did not look back to see what the racket was. Kevin slowly crawled past the now stationary Ron. Left turn at the top of the climb, strategically placed, was Steve Cope. His bike was in the grass leaning on a light post.
His helmet was on the ground. His head was on his helmet. His arms crossed over his chest. His feet propped up on the frame of his bike. His eyes closed as he enjoyed a short nap waiting on the rest of the pack.
Kevin only shook his head in disgust with no intent to recognize Steve’s subtle unspoken suggestion that the rest of us are too slow for him. On into the finish with a great sense of accomplishment having logged a reasonable pace and distance.
The Smell the Roses were already enjoying each other’s company over coffee and bagel sandwiches. Traci and Ron demonstrated today that they came to Play and Play hard.
Sunday Jan 13th.
In attendance
Theresa and Kevin Smit, Steve Cope, Tim Travitz, and Andy Hartsfield who has rejoined the group after 10 + months. Busy lives can get in the way of having THIS MUCH FUN.
Today’s ride saw the Testosterone and Smell the Roses riders as a single group well into the ride. Theresa was concentrating on responding to the pace and the slipstream created by others in the group. She appeared to prefer positioning herself behind Tim. Tim is clearly the better looking guy of the group and is likely the firmer physic. If you were a female which rider would you follow. Shallow – out of shape – old – flabby Kevin, or Steve – Social Chairman – Cope, or Andy – I am just getting back in the saddle – Hartsfield, or Tim. The group did a great job of protecting the pack and each individual rider in it.
There was no attacking the hills (Ron was not riding today). In fact with the approach of UpChuck Hill Kevin, Theresa and Andy all took to kinder gentler route around UpChuck with Tim and Steve approaching the hill straight on. After the climb the group reformed once Theresa had an opportunity to blow her nose. Tough to ride when you are challenged to balance the bike and wipe the nose at the same time.
On the group rode over rolling hill after rolling hill with a left hand turn at Mount Pisgah Church road. This section of road starts with a fast down hill and a section of 3 climbs each one steeper than the last. Theresa held her own up to the last climb of this part of the ride. A left turn at the last of the three hill climbs onto Ferrell road had the group recovering with the intent of letting Theresa close the gap. She responded very well and again the group rode as one towards the turn onto Lewter Shop rd. and towards Lake Jordan. Once at this turn Theresa announced she was planning on making a left turn with the intent to head for the sanctuary of Brugers and the start finish. Steve, Tim, Alan and Kevin all ensured she was OK and that she was to ride safely those last 8 to 12 miles.
Here the pack separated. The Testosterone group make the right turn and headed on their standard path toward Lake Jordan. This group of riders was now traveling in a uniform manner with each working to help the other maintain the steady pace. Right turn onto 751 and left turn onto Martha Chapel for the run toward Lake Jordan.
At the Martha Chapel turn the group was joined from behind by two additional riders who had swung into place just behind. The groups Social Chair – Steve Cope struck up a conversation with the female rider that was working to pass the group. Engaging step one of the three step assessment described in Saturdays ride write-up. Clearly these two riders new about the 3 step process because the male rider grunted and charged ahead with the female in tow. They were Tri-asshole-letes on their Tri Bikes and had no time to share their plan or workout with anyone. This only spurred the Testosterone group to slowly work towards closing the gap created the Tri-asshole-letes sudden bust to get away.
The Testosterone riders sustained speeds of 23 mph as they charged ahead towards Lake Jordan while ridding on the smooth service of Martha Chapel Road. Up ahead they could see that the male Tri-asshole-lete had pulled away from his female companion and was not showing any concern for the gap that existed between them. This upset Steve Cope who suggested the female made a poor choice leaving the sanctuary of the Testosterone riders.
On the pack rode to the left turn at Jordan Lake and the long gradual climb up Ferrington road. Each rider now working to recover from the packs hard drive down Martha Chapel. This later proved to slow the group as each struggled with the energy expenditure of this earlier charge. The group continued to ride making the turn at Holland chapel road leading past the Yacht we have been observing during its refurbishing. While in this section of road Andy asked that the group entertain the possibility of a Bio-Break. The riders slowed as Andy headed off the road to find a perfect spot to relieve himself. At that same time a local in an old beat up car barely missed Kevin as he was standing along side the road straddling his bike. This car did not attempt to slow as it barely missed Steve Cope with a quick swerve followed by a fast left hand turn into their neighborhood street.
RED NECK COUNTRY can be a challenge for bicyclists.
The group again headed on down the road with some discussion of how STUPID some drivers are. The group all agreed that the bike shops need to pull their resources and fund a educational program for local drivers regarding the rules of the road and the challenges bikers have in sharing the road.
Right turn back onto 751 and quick left back onto Lewter Shop Road and then onto Green Level Church had the group pointed back toward Cary and the end. From this point on the only focus was to eliminate hills by altering the route to miss them, and to shorten the distance from current location to the end. At the RR crossing in Front of Green Hope High the group stopped to hydrate and to share GUE with Andy who had started the day’s ride with no fuel in the tank. Bonking due to lack of fuel is easy to accomplish especially when pushing the pace at any point in a ride. The end of the ride had the group glad to have survived another encounter with Tri-asshole-letes and Red Neck Drivers.
Saturday Jan 12th
We will title today’s ride
Clanton’s set the pace for a hard driving ride.
In attendance:
Theresa and Kevin Smit, Ron and Traci Clanton (again on single bikes, no tandem), Steve Cope, Beth Gonzalez (who has rejoined the group after almost a year), and Beth’s friend Patti Lewis who is riding with the group for the first time.
Welcome Patti.
Today’s ride once again had Ron setting the pace early. We have also learned that Traci Clanton was also pushing the pace for the “Smell the Roses” riders. The Clanton’s must share their nutrition and workout plans with the rest of the group.
As the two groups rode through the early stages of the ride they all approached the first short climb of the day together. Kevin looking in his mirror saw a large group of riders swallowing up the Smell the Roses and bearing down on the Testosterone riders. The pack behind was kept at bay with the help of the light at Davis drive. The Testosterone group managed to slip through that light before it changed bringing the oncoming herd to a halt. On through the light and into the round about as Ron Clanton was showing an aggressive/competitive tendency with Steve Cope bantering. “I think there is a girl in that group”. “I won’t be passed by a girl”. Adrenaline could be felt starting to surge through each of the riders as they looked across the round about only to see the pack of riders who were in pursuit taking the shorter path through the round about. “Whimps” Steve Cope was heard to say. No comment from Ron just results as he pressed on harder than before. Within seven peddle strokes Ron and Steve had joined the ranks of this pursuing, now leading, pack of riders. Both Ron and Steve slowly worked their way from the back of that pack to the front. As they rode past each member of the group they sized them up.
This is accomplished in several steps.
1. Ride next to the person to see if they respond with a slight bump in cadence and speed. The old game of no ones wheel gets ahead of mine. – if no surge then they either know the game and are not yet willing to show what they are capable of, or they have nothing to show and are not a threat.
2. Strike up a short conversation. The opening statement is very important. It must be framed in a manner that requires a long reply. Something like “What route are your taking and what pace are you planning on?”. A friendly and inquisitive opening remark that will require a descriptive response. It is important to observe how the other rider responds. If they offer a long description with arm waving and directional pointing while maintaining or increasing the pace, and are not the least bit winded in its delivery then this rider is one to be concerned about. If they look at you and barely grunt a reply then they are either already suffering, or they are a Tri-asshole-lete.
Definition of a Tri-asshole-lete :
a bread of competitive animal that does not enjoy workouts and definitely do not enjoy sharing its misery with anyone. They are driven by a total lack of self esteem and limited self worth. They have chosen a sport that is completely solo in nature. The rules of the sport do not allow drafting or support from others during the event. Solo and solitary is the mind set. This suggests that the workouts are best accomplished solo, and on rare occasions with others only to learn how to survive as a member of a thundering herd. When practicing in a herd do not create any bond with others because they like you are there for themselves only.
Tri-asshole-letes need to learn RULE # 6.
Rule # 6 states – Never Take Yourself Too Seriously.
3. Once steps one and two are completed then apply pressure in ever increasing increments. Watch what unfolds and hold on for as long as you can. Be prepared to either lead and pull the group along for a great distance, or slip into the pack and draft to survive, or get dropped.
A Great Game that is likely to take place several times on any given ride.
Ron and Steve quickly learned that this pack of riders were made up of a mix of young and old male and female Tri-asshole-letes. They were planning on doing 40 miles in two hours as a herd. There was one female named Christine ( we learn her name later in the ride) who was not in tune with the herds sense of direction or purpose for the days ride. Christine was planning to ride for 4 hours at a more reasonable pace.
Once this information was established Ron then applied step 3 to the game plan. He rolled forward through the pack to establish himself near the lead. He waited for the pack to make the right turn onto a long straight stretch of road that has rolling hills as it passes in front of Green Hope School. Once on the straight away Ron began applying pressure in increments that were hard to detect resulting in an ever increasing exponential increase in cadence and speed. Steve Cope was vibrating with excitement as he knew what game was afoot. Steve positioned himself right behind Ron to get the best draft possible and to destroy any reasonable draft for others. Steve is so small in stature that his draft actually disrupted the air flow pattern established by Ron. The sensation for others riding behind Steve would be similar to the buffeting generated when following a truck just outside the draft it creates. Ron and Steve pressed on through the right turn at the end of the straight away and to the left turn that followed. At this point the herd of Tri-asshole-letes elected to continue straight and to fall off the pace generated by Ron and Steve.
In the mean time Kevin and a female Tri-athlete (all in Pink – A Tri-Pink-alete) had maintained the more reasonable pace of 17 – 19 mph with a long discussion of how challenging it is to hold down a full time job and train properly for an Iron Man competition. We later learned her name was Christine, that is yet to be told in this write-up. Christine has a great attitude towards achieving her goal of doing a full distance Triathalon on April 13th in Arizona. Lets all wish her the best. Only down hills with tail winds for both the run and ride. Calm warm water with no other swimmers working to swim over her (this is actually a tactic that some Tri-Asshole-letes do to intimidate the competition).
Eventually Kevin and Christine were able to rejoin Ron and Steve as those two circled waiting for the slower riders of the group to catch up. Christine announced that she was happy to see Ron and Steve attack the herd. She said that when the group first spotted us from behind they all commented that we looked like easy pray.
HA.
The reformed group of Testosterone riders, Christine included, began the journey along Fire Station Church Road and towards the base of UpChuck. Lots of banter was generated as usual with Steve letting our new group member know that there is a fee with ride with us. She was quick to guess that a six pack of beer is all Steve was after. With that short exchange Christine was fully anointed as one of the Testosterone riders. We still had not learned her name at this point. Down the hill headed for the climb on UpChuck. All complained about how they hated this hill. Ron attacked from the front. Steve shot a quick glance over at Kevin as if to say “is he serious? Are you ready to respond?”. A short delay from Kevin is all Steve needed to know. Steve is on his own. Kevin could see Steve estimate the distance between Ron and himself and the distance to the top of the hill.
Steve elected to delay his attack for just and instant. Then as if a pit bull unleashed from his chain Steve exploded out of the saddle and scampered up the hill. Just as Steve matched Ron’s front tire Ron collapsed from his valiant yet feeble attempt at taking the poke-a-dot jersey for being the best hill climber of the day.
The groups slowed and worked to reassemble on the road just past UpChuck hill.
Ron now drew his attention to this new rider in the group. “Hi my name is Ron Clanton what is your name”. “Christine” the new team member announced. Ron then rode up to Kevin and Steve to tell them that Christine is a very solid rider. Kevin looked puzzled for an instant only to realize that he had already spent close to 30 minutes visiting with her and did not think to introduce himself or to learn her name. This generated a great deal of rhetoric directed at Kevin’s lack of social skills.
Kevin had to confess that he was more interested in telling Christine all about himself and did not think to learn anything about her. “Its all about Me” he announced, adding to the banter. Ron and Steve were both quick to let Christine now that Kevin is Shallow and self centered and that they were not surprised that he had not tried to learn anything about her since it is all about him. This banter only endeared the group even more as they continued their journey through the rolling country side on their route to Martha Chapel and Lake Jordan. It was at this junction that Christine announced she was headed towards the longest and steepest climb in the adjacent 5 counties. This caught the groups attention as each tried to provide her an alternate route to get to where she was headed. Some how we believe she was now getting into her mental workout zone as a Tri-asshole-lete. The group did encourage Christine to join us on any Saturday or Sunday and provided information for her to email and get on the distribution list for the ride announcements. With that task being completed the group said their goodbyes with the Testosterone group headed back towards Cary and Christine on her solo trek to put 3 more hours in the saddle. I think each of the riders reflected on what and why they were out on the ride that day as the next several miles unfolded with little chit chat. As the group closed the gap on the finish line the banter again began to build. A turn onto Wimberly with its long slow grind from the Tobacco trail to Old Jenks road presented another opportunity for Ron Clanton to make a play for the poke-a-dot jersey. This was a slow motion reenactment of what transpired early on UpChuck. We applaud Ron for his continued killer instinct. The group was now back in formation again as they crossed over highway 54 and into the back side of Cary. Left turn into the neighborhoods and the last climb of the day. Ron again pressed ahead on the down hill to establish his attempt once again. Just as the group transitioned from down hill into the base of the climb Ron’s shifting technique resulted in a chain that elected to eject itself off of the rear cluster. Steve was already pulling ahead and did not look back to see what the racket was. Kevin slowly crawled past the now stationary Ron. Left turn at the top of the climb, strategically placed, was Steve Cope. His bike was in the grass leaning on a light post.
His helmet was on the ground. His head was on his helmet. His arms crossed over his chest. His feet propped up on the frame of his bike. His eyes closed as he enjoyed a short nap waiting on the rest of the pack.
Kevin only shook his head in disgust with no intent to recognize Steve’s subtle unspoken suggestion that the rest of us are too slow for him. On into the finish with a great sense of accomplishment having logged a reasonable pace and distance.
The Smell the Roses were already enjoying each other’s company over coffee and bagel sandwiches. Traci and Ron demonstrated today that they came to Play and Play hard.
Sunday Jan 13th.
In attendance
Theresa and Kevin Smit, Steve Cope, Tim Travitz, and Andy Hartsfield who has rejoined the group after 10 + months. Busy lives can get in the way of having THIS MUCH FUN.
Today’s ride saw the Testosterone and Smell the Roses riders as a single group well into the ride. Theresa was concentrating on responding to the pace and the slipstream created by others in the group. She appeared to prefer positioning herself behind Tim. Tim is clearly the better looking guy of the group and is likely the firmer physic. If you were a female which rider would you follow. Shallow – out of shape – old – flabby Kevin, or Steve – Social Chairman – Cope, or Andy – I am just getting back in the saddle – Hartsfield, or Tim. The group did a great job of protecting the pack and each individual rider in it.
There was no attacking the hills (Ron was not riding today). In fact with the approach of UpChuck Hill Kevin, Theresa and Andy all took to kinder gentler route around UpChuck with Tim and Steve approaching the hill straight on. After the climb the group reformed once Theresa had an opportunity to blow her nose. Tough to ride when you are challenged to balance the bike and wipe the nose at the same time.
On the group rode over rolling hill after rolling hill with a left hand turn at Mount Pisgah Church road. This section of road starts with a fast down hill and a section of 3 climbs each one steeper than the last. Theresa held her own up to the last climb of this part of the ride. A left turn at the last of the three hill climbs onto Ferrell road had the group recovering with the intent of letting Theresa close the gap. She responded very well and again the group rode as one towards the turn onto Lewter Shop rd. and towards Lake Jordan. Once at this turn Theresa announced she was planning on making a left turn with the intent to head for the sanctuary of Brugers and the start finish. Steve, Tim, Alan and Kevin all ensured she was OK and that she was to ride safely those last 8 to 12 miles.
Here the pack separated. The Testosterone group make the right turn and headed on their standard path toward Lake Jordan. This group of riders was now traveling in a uniform manner with each working to help the other maintain the steady pace. Right turn onto 751 and left turn onto Martha Chapel for the run toward Lake Jordan.
At the Martha Chapel turn the group was joined from behind by two additional riders who had swung into place just behind. The groups Social Chair – Steve Cope struck up a conversation with the female rider that was working to pass the group. Engaging step one of the three step assessment described in Saturdays ride write-up. Clearly these two riders new about the 3 step process because the male rider grunted and charged ahead with the female in tow. They were Tri-asshole-letes on their Tri Bikes and had no time to share their plan or workout with anyone. This only spurred the Testosterone group to slowly work towards closing the gap created the Tri-asshole-letes sudden bust to get away.
The Testosterone riders sustained speeds of 23 mph as they charged ahead towards Lake Jordan while ridding on the smooth service of Martha Chapel Road. Up ahead they could see that the male Tri-asshole-lete had pulled away from his female companion and was not showing any concern for the gap that existed between them. This upset Steve Cope who suggested the female made a poor choice leaving the sanctuary of the Testosterone riders.
On the pack rode to the left turn at Jordan Lake and the long gradual climb up Ferrington road. Each rider now working to recover from the packs hard drive down Martha Chapel. This later proved to slow the group as each struggled with the energy expenditure of this earlier charge. The group continued to ride making the turn at Holland chapel road leading past the Yacht we have been observing during its refurbishing. While in this section of road Andy asked that the group entertain the possibility of a Bio-Break. The riders slowed as Andy headed off the road to find a perfect spot to relieve himself. At that same time a local in an old beat up car barely missed Kevin as he was standing along side the road straddling his bike. This car did not attempt to slow as it barely missed Steve Cope with a quick swerve followed by a fast left hand turn into their neighborhood street.
RED NECK COUNTRY can be a challenge for bicyclists.
The group again headed on down the road with some discussion of how STUPID some drivers are. The group all agreed that the bike shops need to pull their resources and fund a educational program for local drivers regarding the rules of the road and the challenges bikers have in sharing the road.
Right turn back onto 751 and quick left back onto Lewter Shop Road and then onto Green Level Church had the group pointed back toward Cary and the end. From this point on the only focus was to eliminate hills by altering the route to miss them, and to shorten the distance from current location to the end. At the RR crossing in Front of Green Hope High the group stopped to hydrate and to share GUE with Andy who had started the day’s ride with no fuel in the tank. Bonking due to lack of fuel is easy to accomplish especially when pushing the pace at any point in a ride. The end of the ride had the group glad to have survived another encounter with Tri-asshole-letes and Red Neck Drivers.
Sunday, January 06, 2008
First Weekend rides of 2008
Satuday Jan 5th 2008 first ride of the year for the group.
A good turn out for this ride.
The group that had assembled consisted of:
Ron and Traci Clanton each on their own bikes (no tandem team).
This was not the first ride of the year for this team. Ron and Traci rode the News Years Day ride. They did 35 miles on Jan 1st with the Spin Cycle new years day ride.
Also in attendance this Jan 5th was Jay Brainard and Barb Hartsfield. They where excited to start the new year off with a fun ride. Theresa and Kevin Smit were also in attendance.
David Bridenbaugh had informed Ron that he would be there for the days ride. David did show up ready to ride by riding from his house to the start of the ride.
Prior to the start the group assembled in Brugers to share how the Holidays treated them and to discuss rides of interest for the up coming biking season. Ron reminded us that one of the early season’s organized rides is the Frostbite 50. Several of us had ridden this in the past and found it to be well organized and well attended. The cool thing about this ride is you can decide at several points along the route how far you want to ride. It also raises funds for a great cause to help fight a specific form or Cancer. We encourage everyone to consider this early season ride. We also met Mark Zarechi who was not planning on riding today but did promise to join us one of these next weekends. Mark was fully engulfed in a cup of coffee and some actuarial charts for his work ( I would rather ride uphill in 10th gear against a strong head wind with two flats and a broken chain – than to look at actuarial charts for work).
As the group left the warmth of the coffee shop to begin the ritual of suiting up for the ride the Temperature was 39 degrees (without wind chill).
Layers upon Layers of clothing forced a slow start to a smooth enjoyable ride.
So the pack was off with 3 riders forming the Testosterone laden group and 4 riders forming the socially correct “smell the roses group”.
From the start Ron Clanton set the pace. He blasted out of the parking lot showing no fear of the cars scrambling for the limited parking stalls that remained. Ron carried this aggressive manner as he charged up the hills of high house and into the neighborhood of Preston with David Bridenbaug working to stay on his rear wheel. Kevin was left far behind in the zone between the Testosterone riders and the “smell the roses group” which was gaining on him as he struggled to close the gap with Ron and David. Right turn into Preston found Ron and David slowing dramatically with the recognition that there were only two of them. Where was Kevin?
Ron was looking intently over his right shoulder as Kevin slowly closed the gap. Ron continued to slow in concern for the Third member of the Testosterone group. Ron Slowed even more as his head continued to peer over his right shoulder in even deeper concern for the missing team member. Kevin, who was now along Ron’s Left side realized that Ron was actually worried they had left Kevin behind, asked Ron “Who are you looking for?”. Ron’s head snapped to the left. “Where did you come from?” There was no response as Kevin continued to catch his breath. The group now glided along the neighborhood roads of Preston and across the busy light at Davis Drive, into the round about of the newer Preston area to the left turn behind Green Hope. The Testosterone Group had now established themselves at a pace of 15 to 19 mph. They could still see their breath in the cold air and were taking notice of the wind direction. Let it be known that the wind will always be in your face on a bike. No need to determine where it is coming from, it will always be there in your face. Ron Clanton was taking note of the fact that his hands had started to warm up. HOW does his hands warm up. He was wearing normal biking gloves. The ones with NO FINGERS. Kevin had gloves that had two layers of protection for all fingers with three fingers bundled together in a mitten much like a snow mobile glove is configured, leaving his trigger finger and thumb left to themselves to stay warm with just the two layers of protection. Kevin’s hands where headed towards being frostbit as Ron was announcing how warm his hands were. David looked at Kevin with an expression that suggested Ron was not Normal. You Vote.
As the group prepared to turn right onto the road that goes past Green Hope High Kevin announced he needed to stop to buckle his helmet. Apparently Kevin has so many layers of cloths to put on that he got distracted and forgot to secure his helmet before the ride.
UpChuck hill presented its usual challenge. Ron and David both attacked the Hill by climbing out of the saddle. Kevin prepared to emulate their efforts only to be stifled by the automatic gear shifts that took place. Kevin started the climb in 2nd gear in anticipation of spinning his way up the hill. Within the first few feet of the climb his gears shifted to 3rd, then 4th, then 5th, and finally as the degree of climb hit its pinnacle the bike shifted again on its own into 6th gear. Kevin had already been forced out of the saddle in response to the earlier cruel gear shifts. He now found himself throwing all 200 lbs of his, out of shape body, from side to side in an effort to convince the peddles to rotate just one more time. His heart rate monitor responded with a load beeping sound warning Kevin that he had exceeded the target and Maximum heart rate recommendation for an old man.
Again Ron and David slowed in an effort to allow the team to reassemble.
Once all three were together the group rode on at a pace that allowed for a slow recovery of heart and breathing rates.
The team pulled up to another unscheduled stop allowing Ron time to change batteries in his GPS. YES his GPS. The group has ridden this route at least 4,323 times but we needed fresh batteries so we would not get lost.
On the group rode for another 7 minutes only to stop again for Ron to find a tree (outhouse) to eliminate all the water he had consumed on the ride.
Not a great deal of conversation on this mornings ride. Kevin did little to add to the conversation for two reasons. His stomach was not quit right, feeling a little nauseous. When he did try to talk it was slurred due to frozen lips and jaw mussels that made it a challenge to form words. The group also learned that the cold air passing over their teeth made the teeth hurt. This forced the team to breath as best they could through their noses. Only during a climb did the mouths open to consume the cold air.
These riders finished the ride with an average pace of 14.8 mph for the 32 miles.
The smell the roses riders were already back from their ride of 20 miles. All had felt a and celebrated a strong sense of accomplishment in having taken the initiative to show up and then ride in the crisp cold air of an early January day.
Sunday Jan 5th 2008 ride report.
Earlier scheduled start than yesterday due to expected warming trend. Even with an hour earlier start the Temperature was warmer than yesterdays ride at its finish.
Another good turn out for these early season rides.
Kevin and Theresa Smit were joined today by Steve Cope, Jay Brainard, Steve Sparano, and Tim Travitz. As the group relaxed prior to the ride Kevin asked Jay about Saturday’s ride and if there were and special events or situations that were worth noting. Jay was quick to respond. “We ride to eliminate Trauma and Drama and therefore have nothing more to share than a sense of accomplishment and camaraderie”.
This is truly the Spirit of the “Smell the Roses” group and a reason that Theresa seeks out these rides every weekend. Imagine her life every day with Kevin the King of Trauma and Drama.
As everyone assembled their bikes and readied themselves for the days ride Steve Cope mounted his classic Vitus aluminum framed bike ( you know the one built with space age technology in 1977) and rode over to visit with a couple of individuals who had their bikes on the back of vehicles. Steve learned that these two individuals had already completed their ride on the horse trails in Umstead park. The bikes they used were cyclo-cross bikes. These are a form of dirt and street bike hybrid. By the time Steve had chatted with his new found friends the rest of the Pack was headed out of the parking lot.
Normally at least two groups form based on pace and distance. Today all riders were riding as a group with Steve Cope and Theresa Smit riding in the back. They were spending the largest amount of energy chit chatting rather than peddling. The riders all enjoyed a smooth transition into and thru the Preston Wood neighborhood. As usual the two groups formed as the riders emerged out of Preston Woods climbing the first hill of the day and across the road at Davis Drive. The guys quickly formed into a small peleton leaving the ladies to enjoy their ride and their own conversations “no Trauma no Drama”. Steve Cope and Steve Sparano set the pace with Kevin and Tim enjoying the draft presented by the lead riders. It was entertaining to watch both Kevin and Tim work to reposition themselves behind Steve Sparano rather than Steve Cope. The two Steves do not generate the same degree of draft. This group of riders continued their trek along the country style roads that are quickly being transformed into new neighborhoods by the continued efforts of local builders. Soon the group will be required to drive for an hour west to get to the edge of town and back into the countryside. Kevin and Theresa may need to consider selling their home in the heart of Cary to relocate to the NEW Heart of Cary several miles away.
On the group rode with Steve Cope sharing the story of how he slammed the car door on his thumb, and the creative bandage applied on it by one of his daughters. Think MaxiPad.
No one really attacked on UpChuck which is an indication that each rider knew they were out of shape and just wanted to get the climb over with. This group continued a crisp yet controlled pace through out the days ride. Once again returning to the start , in the Brugers parking lot, the group discovered they had ridden 33 miles at an average pace of 16.4 miles per hour. Very acceptable for an early season ride. Not sure which rider set the pace with each taking turns at the lead.
The ladies arrived within minutes of the guys return to the parking lot. They had ridden 25 miles at a relaxed pace of 13 mph with a long stop to visit with a local policeman. It appears he was asking them if they had seen a large group of Bike Riders taking over the road and not letting drivers pass. They had not noticed this group (of about 30+) however the guys had passed them going the opposite direction near the end of their ride.
No Trauma No Drama.
No FUN
So says Steve Cope.
A good turn out for this ride.
The group that had assembled consisted of:
Ron and Traci Clanton each on their own bikes (no tandem team).
This was not the first ride of the year for this team. Ron and Traci rode the News Years Day ride. They did 35 miles on Jan 1st with the Spin Cycle new years day ride.
Also in attendance this Jan 5th was Jay Brainard and Barb Hartsfield. They where excited to start the new year off with a fun ride. Theresa and Kevin Smit were also in attendance.
David Bridenbaugh had informed Ron that he would be there for the days ride. David did show up ready to ride by riding from his house to the start of the ride.
Prior to the start the group assembled in Brugers to share how the Holidays treated them and to discuss rides of interest for the up coming biking season. Ron reminded us that one of the early season’s organized rides is the Frostbite 50. Several of us had ridden this in the past and found it to be well organized and well attended. The cool thing about this ride is you can decide at several points along the route how far you want to ride. It also raises funds for a great cause to help fight a specific form or Cancer. We encourage everyone to consider this early season ride. We also met Mark Zarechi who was not planning on riding today but did promise to join us one of these next weekends. Mark was fully engulfed in a cup of coffee and some actuarial charts for his work ( I would rather ride uphill in 10th gear against a strong head wind with two flats and a broken chain – than to look at actuarial charts for work).
As the group left the warmth of the coffee shop to begin the ritual of suiting up for the ride the Temperature was 39 degrees (without wind chill).
Layers upon Layers of clothing forced a slow start to a smooth enjoyable ride.
So the pack was off with 3 riders forming the Testosterone laden group and 4 riders forming the socially correct “smell the roses group”.
From the start Ron Clanton set the pace. He blasted out of the parking lot showing no fear of the cars scrambling for the limited parking stalls that remained. Ron carried this aggressive manner as he charged up the hills of high house and into the neighborhood of Preston with David Bridenbaug working to stay on his rear wheel. Kevin was left far behind in the zone between the Testosterone riders and the “smell the roses group” which was gaining on him as he struggled to close the gap with Ron and David. Right turn into Preston found Ron and David slowing dramatically with the recognition that there were only two of them. Where was Kevin?
Ron was looking intently over his right shoulder as Kevin slowly closed the gap. Ron continued to slow in concern for the Third member of the Testosterone group. Ron Slowed even more as his head continued to peer over his right shoulder in even deeper concern for the missing team member. Kevin, who was now along Ron’s Left side realized that Ron was actually worried they had left Kevin behind, asked Ron “Who are you looking for?”. Ron’s head snapped to the left. “Where did you come from?” There was no response as Kevin continued to catch his breath. The group now glided along the neighborhood roads of Preston and across the busy light at Davis Drive, into the round about of the newer Preston area to the left turn behind Green Hope. The Testosterone Group had now established themselves at a pace of 15 to 19 mph. They could still see their breath in the cold air and were taking notice of the wind direction. Let it be known that the wind will always be in your face on a bike. No need to determine where it is coming from, it will always be there in your face. Ron Clanton was taking note of the fact that his hands had started to warm up. HOW does his hands warm up. He was wearing normal biking gloves. The ones with NO FINGERS. Kevin had gloves that had two layers of protection for all fingers with three fingers bundled together in a mitten much like a snow mobile glove is configured, leaving his trigger finger and thumb left to themselves to stay warm with just the two layers of protection. Kevin’s hands where headed towards being frostbit as Ron was announcing how warm his hands were. David looked at Kevin with an expression that suggested Ron was not Normal. You Vote.
As the group prepared to turn right onto the road that goes past Green Hope High Kevin announced he needed to stop to buckle his helmet. Apparently Kevin has so many layers of cloths to put on that he got distracted and forgot to secure his helmet before the ride.
UpChuck hill presented its usual challenge. Ron and David both attacked the Hill by climbing out of the saddle. Kevin prepared to emulate their efforts only to be stifled by the automatic gear shifts that took place. Kevin started the climb in 2nd gear in anticipation of spinning his way up the hill. Within the first few feet of the climb his gears shifted to 3rd, then 4th, then 5th, and finally as the degree of climb hit its pinnacle the bike shifted again on its own into 6th gear. Kevin had already been forced out of the saddle in response to the earlier cruel gear shifts. He now found himself throwing all 200 lbs of his, out of shape body, from side to side in an effort to convince the peddles to rotate just one more time. His heart rate monitor responded with a load beeping sound warning Kevin that he had exceeded the target and Maximum heart rate recommendation for an old man.
Again Ron and David slowed in an effort to allow the team to reassemble.
Once all three were together the group rode on at a pace that allowed for a slow recovery of heart and breathing rates.
The team pulled up to another unscheduled stop allowing Ron time to change batteries in his GPS. YES his GPS. The group has ridden this route at least 4,323 times but we needed fresh batteries so we would not get lost.
On the group rode for another 7 minutes only to stop again for Ron to find a tree (outhouse) to eliminate all the water he had consumed on the ride.
Not a great deal of conversation on this mornings ride. Kevin did little to add to the conversation for two reasons. His stomach was not quit right, feeling a little nauseous. When he did try to talk it was slurred due to frozen lips and jaw mussels that made it a challenge to form words. The group also learned that the cold air passing over their teeth made the teeth hurt. This forced the team to breath as best they could through their noses. Only during a climb did the mouths open to consume the cold air.
These riders finished the ride with an average pace of 14.8 mph for the 32 miles.
The smell the roses riders were already back from their ride of 20 miles. All had felt a and celebrated a strong sense of accomplishment in having taken the initiative to show up and then ride in the crisp cold air of an early January day.
Sunday Jan 5th 2008 ride report.
Earlier scheduled start than yesterday due to expected warming trend. Even with an hour earlier start the Temperature was warmer than yesterdays ride at its finish.
Another good turn out for these early season rides.
Kevin and Theresa Smit were joined today by Steve Cope, Jay Brainard, Steve Sparano, and Tim Travitz. As the group relaxed prior to the ride Kevin asked Jay about Saturday’s ride and if there were and special events or situations that were worth noting. Jay was quick to respond. “We ride to eliminate Trauma and Drama and therefore have nothing more to share than a sense of accomplishment and camaraderie”.
This is truly the Spirit of the “Smell the Roses” group and a reason that Theresa seeks out these rides every weekend. Imagine her life every day with Kevin the King of Trauma and Drama.
As everyone assembled their bikes and readied themselves for the days ride Steve Cope mounted his classic Vitus aluminum framed bike ( you know the one built with space age technology in 1977) and rode over to visit with a couple of individuals who had their bikes on the back of vehicles. Steve learned that these two individuals had already completed their ride on the horse trails in Umstead park. The bikes they used were cyclo-cross bikes. These are a form of dirt and street bike hybrid. By the time Steve had chatted with his new found friends the rest of the Pack was headed out of the parking lot.
Normally at least two groups form based on pace and distance. Today all riders were riding as a group with Steve Cope and Theresa Smit riding in the back. They were spending the largest amount of energy chit chatting rather than peddling. The riders all enjoyed a smooth transition into and thru the Preston Wood neighborhood. As usual the two groups formed as the riders emerged out of Preston Woods climbing the first hill of the day and across the road at Davis Drive. The guys quickly formed into a small peleton leaving the ladies to enjoy their ride and their own conversations “no Trauma no Drama”. Steve Cope and Steve Sparano set the pace with Kevin and Tim enjoying the draft presented by the lead riders. It was entertaining to watch both Kevin and Tim work to reposition themselves behind Steve Sparano rather than Steve Cope. The two Steves do not generate the same degree of draft. This group of riders continued their trek along the country style roads that are quickly being transformed into new neighborhoods by the continued efforts of local builders. Soon the group will be required to drive for an hour west to get to the edge of town and back into the countryside. Kevin and Theresa may need to consider selling their home in the heart of Cary to relocate to the NEW Heart of Cary several miles away.
On the group rode with Steve Cope sharing the story of how he slammed the car door on his thumb, and the creative bandage applied on it by one of his daughters. Think MaxiPad.
No one really attacked on UpChuck which is an indication that each rider knew they were out of shape and just wanted to get the climb over with. This group continued a crisp yet controlled pace through out the days ride. Once again returning to the start , in the Brugers parking lot, the group discovered they had ridden 33 miles at an average pace of 16.4 miles per hour. Very acceptable for an early season ride. Not sure which rider set the pace with each taking turns at the lead.
The ladies arrived within minutes of the guys return to the parking lot. They had ridden 25 miles at a relaxed pace of 13 mph with a long stop to visit with a local policeman. It appears he was asking them if they had seen a large group of Bike Riders taking over the road and not letting drivers pass. They had not noticed this group (of about 30+) however the guys had passed them going the opposite direction near the end of their ride.
No Trauma No Drama.
No FUN
So says Steve Cope.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Sept 15 and 16 rides
Saturday Sept 15th
Kevin and Theresa were joined by Kristine Harkness for this days ride.
The group reminisced about their experience and great weekend during the MS150.
Kevin and Theresa rode with the Hibernian team and Kristine rode for the Carolina Brewery team at the MS 150.
This days ride was relaxed, with cool temperatures, light winds, and a relaxed pace.
The group rode the 32 mile route taking them past the farm where the 60+ foot boat was being refurbished. Kevin asked when the boat would be sea worthy and was informed that they expect to have it ready by Christmas.
The group of three road strong all the way to Ferrington Road near Lake Jordan. They then elected to turn left and then left again on Horton pond. Theresa was beginning to suffer from lower back pain and Kristine needed to take a bio break. The group slowed and stopped in a shaded area. Theresa stretched her back and Kristine headed for the woods to relieve her bladder. The ride was at the half way point. Kevin and Kristine mounted their bikes with Theresa slowly falling in behind. Theresa struggled to finish the ride and stay at the earlier established pace. Kevin and Kristine rode on keeping Theresa in view. At each turn Kevin and Kristine waited with Kevin circling back to see Theresa’s progress. Once at the corner of Old Jenks and Wimberly Kevin and Kristine made stronger progress towards the finish of the days ride. They did not look back or wait for Theresa from this point on. Once back at the start Kevin and Kristine put away their bikes and prepared for a short visit to Brugers for coffee and nutrition. Theresa was not far behind and was ready at about the same time. Kristine was planning to visit BUG FEST later that morning, Kevin had properties to show, and Theresa had work to accomplish so we did not linger long at Brugers.
Sunday Sept 16th.
Kevin, Theresa and Carolyn Sparano all road together to the start of the days ride. They were then joined by
Steve Cope driving up with the top down on his Yellow Thing.
He complained about the cold. DUH. Steve elected to ride today on his classic Vitas.
We then were joined by Sara Powell. She had been missing for most of the season.
She claimed she had no excuses, just didn’t ride.
Then David Bridenbaugh arrived on his bike ready to go.
The group finished pumping tires, dawning helmets and sunglasses, put on shoes and gloves. Carolyn was pacing on her bike in the parking lot anxiously awaiting those of us who are less competitive.
The pack was off close to 8 am with Steve Cope in the lead. Typical chit chat filled the early miles on the ride. We learned that David was selling and supporting uninterruptible power supplies with his brothers company. Steve was traveling a lot for work. Kevin was planning another trip out of the country. He is being sent to Yap and Truck Lagoon for 2 weeks of diving. This trip is being subsidized by resorts in that area that want Kevin to experience their accommodations and dive operations with the hope that he then brings others to those sites in the future. ANY ONE READY to DIVE Exotic Places?
The smell the Roses Group fell off the pace at the usual crossing from Preston Woods and Davis Drive. Steve set the pace with Kevin and David drafting as best they could.
As you may recall Steve’s profile leaves a great deal to be desired for those trying to draft. On they rode slowly picking up the pace. They were moving slower than normal holding a 13 mph pace early in this ride. Steve’s bike was making lots of pinging sounds as his spokes were trying to tell him that they were old like him. This small pack then rolled across 55 and onto Fire Station Church Road they road single file past all the new construction. Left turn onto Yates store had each rider preparing for the attack on upchuck. Kevin being the heaviest was fastest down the hill followed by Steve Cope who loves to draft the fat man. David was off to the left and aligning himself for the line he wanted to take down the hill and then up the short steep climb. None of these riders attacked. All three rode to complete the task rather than to dominate the hill or to fend off anyone who might attack. Right turn at the top of the hill had all three riders recovered and ready to pick up the pace. Chit Chat continued as the group road along the recently patched roads of Mount Pisgah Church road. Up the rolling hills again with no one attacking. Left turn at the top of the last hill had the group riding easy towards Leweter Shop road. About ¼ mile shy of the right turn onto Leweter Shop road there was a loud snap and claing. Everyone looked around to see what they had run over. Kevin did not look. He felt the explosion as it happened through the carbon fiber frame of this light weight bike. Kevin recognizing the sound and sensation looked at his rear wheel to see how out of true it was do to a broken spoke. Kevin’s wheels are light weight with radial configured light weight bladed spokes. With limited spokes under high tension the result of one missing deforms the rim to such a degree it will not turn without rubbing on the chain stays. Kevin pulled up to a full stop. David rode back to retrieve the exploded component. Steve laughed and laughed and laughed. “If you were not so fat your bike might perform better”. “This is what you get for buying your bike at Kmart”. “It is only 12 miles back to the start so you better get walking now”. “I would take off my cleats if I was you so you don’t ruin them on your long walk home”. Kevin could only smile and nod his head. No point in trying to provide any counter points. Kevin asked if anyone had a spoke wrench that might help me true the wheel enough to limp home. “I only carry a sew up” Steve said with a smile. David emptied his tool kit bag to no avail. “walk to the corner where other bikers are going by and ask them” Steve said in between chuckling over Kevin’s situation. Kevin informed the group that he will work to solve the problem and that he has a cell phone to call Theresa if no one riding by can help.
Waving goodbye the two riders were heard laughing and carrying on about how glad they were to have purchased their bikes from a bike store. Kevin walked the ¼ mile in the grass to protect his cleats. Once at the corner he began asking each rider if they had a spoke wrench or pliers. No one carries tools. Kevin had several inform him that they only carry a cell phone. Kevin placed a call to Theresa suspecting she left her phone in the car. As he began to leave a detailed message he noticed a group of riders approaching from the same route he had just ridden. Upon further investigation he was convinced it was the Smell the Roses riders slowly approaching. Sure enough it was the Ladies. “What happened, are you OK” they all asked. Clearly the Smell the Roses Riders are a kindler gentler group. They elected to shorten their ride in order to rescue Kevin from his dilemma. Kevin continued to ask passing riders for the proper tools to solve his problem. He then saw a large group of riders headed his way. He was pleasantly surprised to recognize them as members of Scout troop 212. Some of the riders in this group had recently taken Scuba Lessons from Kevin. No tools to get the job done from this group either. Just about then Steve and David were doubling back after having made their way to Lake Jordan and back. Steve surmised that Kevin had no success in getting anyone to help him. “Looks like you can’t get anyone to help you. I bet you could not sell Lemonade from your Lemonade stand as a kid.” He gleefully announced. Before Kevin could respond they noticed a lone rider talking on a cell phone while trying to make speed down the road. As the rider approached all three recognized the rider to be Tim Travitz. Tim was a rider the group tried to help early in the season. He has since joined the group on many of their rides. Tim slowed and announced he was riding to try and find us. He had slept in that morning so he rode our regular rout backwards in hopes of hooking up. Tim was quickly pulled into the banter and agreed with Steve that Kevin should not have purchased his bike from Kmart. The group now with Tim in tow headed for the end. As they worked to clip in they waved and said good luck, maybe we will see you there next Saturday as we ride by.
Kevin continued to solicit assistance to no avail. Kevin estimated that it would take the Ladies about an hour to get to the cars and then 20 minutes to drive back. Within 20 minutes Tim was back with his car and some tools to see if they would to the trick. Tim lives very close to the ride route and pulled off early to see if he could come back to help.
Kevin used a pair of pliers to see if he could loosen some spokes to help true the wheel. He was skeptical since the spokes were under a great deal of tension, and the spokes were made of soft aluminum. The risk for marring the spokes was high. Kevin quickly gave up the idea as he quickly validated his concerns. Kevin thanked Tim for trying to help and they said their good-bys. About 1 hour later Theresa and Carolyn arrived with the van. Kevin loaded his bike and finished his ride driving the vehicle to Brugers were they joined Steve Cope to enjoy coffee and a bagel sandwich.
Kevin and Theresa were joined by Kristine Harkness for this days ride.
The group reminisced about their experience and great weekend during the MS150.
Kevin and Theresa rode with the Hibernian team and Kristine rode for the Carolina Brewery team at the MS 150.
This days ride was relaxed, with cool temperatures, light winds, and a relaxed pace.
The group rode the 32 mile route taking them past the farm where the 60+ foot boat was being refurbished. Kevin asked when the boat would be sea worthy and was informed that they expect to have it ready by Christmas.
The group of three road strong all the way to Ferrington Road near Lake Jordan. They then elected to turn left and then left again on Horton pond. Theresa was beginning to suffer from lower back pain and Kristine needed to take a bio break. The group slowed and stopped in a shaded area. Theresa stretched her back and Kristine headed for the woods to relieve her bladder. The ride was at the half way point. Kevin and Kristine mounted their bikes with Theresa slowly falling in behind. Theresa struggled to finish the ride and stay at the earlier established pace. Kevin and Kristine rode on keeping Theresa in view. At each turn Kevin and Kristine waited with Kevin circling back to see Theresa’s progress. Once at the corner of Old Jenks and Wimberly Kevin and Kristine made stronger progress towards the finish of the days ride. They did not look back or wait for Theresa from this point on. Once back at the start Kevin and Kristine put away their bikes and prepared for a short visit to Brugers for coffee and nutrition. Theresa was not far behind and was ready at about the same time. Kristine was planning to visit BUG FEST later that morning, Kevin had properties to show, and Theresa had work to accomplish so we did not linger long at Brugers.
Sunday Sept 16th.
Kevin, Theresa and Carolyn Sparano all road together to the start of the days ride. They were then joined by
Steve Cope driving up with the top down on his Yellow Thing.
He complained about the cold. DUH. Steve elected to ride today on his classic Vitas.
We then were joined by Sara Powell. She had been missing for most of the season.
She claimed she had no excuses, just didn’t ride.
Then David Bridenbaugh arrived on his bike ready to go.
The group finished pumping tires, dawning helmets and sunglasses, put on shoes and gloves. Carolyn was pacing on her bike in the parking lot anxiously awaiting those of us who are less competitive.
The pack was off close to 8 am with Steve Cope in the lead. Typical chit chat filled the early miles on the ride. We learned that David was selling and supporting uninterruptible power supplies with his brothers company. Steve was traveling a lot for work. Kevin was planning another trip out of the country. He is being sent to Yap and Truck Lagoon for 2 weeks of diving. This trip is being subsidized by resorts in that area that want Kevin to experience their accommodations and dive operations with the hope that he then brings others to those sites in the future. ANY ONE READY to DIVE Exotic Places?
The smell the Roses Group fell off the pace at the usual crossing from Preston Woods and Davis Drive. Steve set the pace with Kevin and David drafting as best they could.
As you may recall Steve’s profile leaves a great deal to be desired for those trying to draft. On they rode slowly picking up the pace. They were moving slower than normal holding a 13 mph pace early in this ride. Steve’s bike was making lots of pinging sounds as his spokes were trying to tell him that they were old like him. This small pack then rolled across 55 and onto Fire Station Church Road they road single file past all the new construction. Left turn onto Yates store had each rider preparing for the attack on upchuck. Kevin being the heaviest was fastest down the hill followed by Steve Cope who loves to draft the fat man. David was off to the left and aligning himself for the line he wanted to take down the hill and then up the short steep climb. None of these riders attacked. All three rode to complete the task rather than to dominate the hill or to fend off anyone who might attack. Right turn at the top of the hill had all three riders recovered and ready to pick up the pace. Chit Chat continued as the group road along the recently patched roads of Mount Pisgah Church road. Up the rolling hills again with no one attacking. Left turn at the top of the last hill had the group riding easy towards Leweter Shop road. About ¼ mile shy of the right turn onto Leweter Shop road there was a loud snap and claing. Everyone looked around to see what they had run over. Kevin did not look. He felt the explosion as it happened through the carbon fiber frame of this light weight bike. Kevin recognizing the sound and sensation looked at his rear wheel to see how out of true it was do to a broken spoke. Kevin’s wheels are light weight with radial configured light weight bladed spokes. With limited spokes under high tension the result of one missing deforms the rim to such a degree it will not turn without rubbing on the chain stays. Kevin pulled up to a full stop. David rode back to retrieve the exploded component. Steve laughed and laughed and laughed. “If you were not so fat your bike might perform better”. “This is what you get for buying your bike at Kmart”. “It is only 12 miles back to the start so you better get walking now”. “I would take off my cleats if I was you so you don’t ruin them on your long walk home”. Kevin could only smile and nod his head. No point in trying to provide any counter points. Kevin asked if anyone had a spoke wrench that might help me true the wheel enough to limp home. “I only carry a sew up” Steve said with a smile. David emptied his tool kit bag to no avail. “walk to the corner where other bikers are going by and ask them” Steve said in between chuckling over Kevin’s situation. Kevin informed the group that he will work to solve the problem and that he has a cell phone to call Theresa if no one riding by can help.
Waving goodbye the two riders were heard laughing and carrying on about how glad they were to have purchased their bikes from a bike store. Kevin walked the ¼ mile in the grass to protect his cleats. Once at the corner he began asking each rider if they had a spoke wrench or pliers. No one carries tools. Kevin had several inform him that they only carry a cell phone. Kevin placed a call to Theresa suspecting she left her phone in the car. As he began to leave a detailed message he noticed a group of riders approaching from the same route he had just ridden. Upon further investigation he was convinced it was the Smell the Roses riders slowly approaching. Sure enough it was the Ladies. “What happened, are you OK” they all asked. Clearly the Smell the Roses Riders are a kindler gentler group. They elected to shorten their ride in order to rescue Kevin from his dilemma. Kevin continued to ask passing riders for the proper tools to solve his problem. He then saw a large group of riders headed his way. He was pleasantly surprised to recognize them as members of Scout troop 212. Some of the riders in this group had recently taken Scuba Lessons from Kevin. No tools to get the job done from this group either. Just about then Steve and David were doubling back after having made their way to Lake Jordan and back. Steve surmised that Kevin had no success in getting anyone to help him. “Looks like you can’t get anyone to help you. I bet you could not sell Lemonade from your Lemonade stand as a kid.” He gleefully announced. Before Kevin could respond they noticed a lone rider talking on a cell phone while trying to make speed down the road. As the rider approached all three recognized the rider to be Tim Travitz. Tim was a rider the group tried to help early in the season. He has since joined the group on many of their rides. Tim slowed and announced he was riding to try and find us. He had slept in that morning so he rode our regular rout backwards in hopes of hooking up. Tim was quickly pulled into the banter and agreed with Steve that Kevin should not have purchased his bike from Kmart. The group now with Tim in tow headed for the end. As they worked to clip in they waved and said good luck, maybe we will see you there next Saturday as we ride by.
Kevin continued to solicit assistance to no avail. Kevin estimated that it would take the Ladies about an hour to get to the cars and then 20 minutes to drive back. Within 20 minutes Tim was back with his car and some tools to see if they would to the trick. Tim lives very close to the ride route and pulled off early to see if he could come back to help.
Kevin used a pair of pliers to see if he could loosen some spokes to help true the wheel. He was skeptical since the spokes were under a great deal of tension, and the spokes were made of soft aluminum. The risk for marring the spokes was high. Kevin quickly gave up the idea as he quickly validated his concerns. Kevin thanked Tim for trying to help and they said their good-bys. About 1 hour later Theresa and Carolyn arrived with the van. Kevin loaded his bike and finished his ride driving the vehicle to Brugers were they joined Steve Cope to enjoy coffee and a bagel sandwich.
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