The Smoke Jumpers - 3 hours in a toaster oven Saturdays ride June 5 2010

This write-up provided by Lee Duncan - Sonic Boom.

At 0800 the famous Thorns and Roses assembled in the Parking lot, ready to take on the day. In the spirit of a true smoke jumper, the group was prepared to parachute into the wildly burning morning sun, arriving fresh and ready for the strenuous work of fighting fires along the rugged terrain that lay ahead.


In attendance:

Again, a lot of people. Probably 10 - 20 people plus.

Rob Robertson, Blue Shirt from last week, AKA Top Rookie

Thorns: Pat, Shawn (Green Flash), Kee Kee, Sharol, Jen?!, Jim (Domestique), Lee (Sonic Boom), James (Triathlete) and many others whose names I did not get.

It was a hot morning, and everyone seemed ready for the day ahead. Rob Robertson (Top Rookie) took the Karaoke mic and did a phenomenal job of organizing and explaining the challenging route at the start of the ride. The maps and directions were distributed among the different riders, with Sonic Boom passing out a few he had made as well. Everyone stayed together at the start of the ride through the normal route out of Cary. As we turned AWAY from Ron's pull and toward High House, it was a bit like brushing your teeth with your left hand, awkward and messy, but you get through it. But the group worked to stay together and followed the route. We then rolled through Jenks Carpenter, Holt and crossed 55 onto Jenks. Even though we had just got started, the morning heat began to claim the energy of the group. With this the Thorns took shape with Shawn at the helm and the Roses and Stems under the leadership of Top Rookie. To this point, I was amazed with the listening comprehension skills of the front Thorns, as they seemed to know every turn as it was explained. It was later learned that a key requirement for riding with the Thorns and Roses is membership to Mensa.

As we took a right on Roberts and right on Green Level Church, the group started to experience Green Level vertigo. Very common among Cary residents. This is a condition brought about by 30% of all roads in Western Cary being named "Green Level something." Luckily, Domestique had his wits about him and one upped the tricky namsters to keep us on track. At the stop sign we took pause for the group to consolidate and then headed up the long slow route through Green Level West and then a Left on "Lucifer" or "Luther" as it is more commonly known.. for its tough hills that snare riders in both directions. Pat and Jen were driving the group's pace through this section and looking very very strong.


From 751 and Hortons pond the trees now gave way to more open spaces which allowed the sun's full wrath to fall down on the group. The Green Flash, as he had from the start of the day, launched from his saddle and provided due discipline to those that thought they could get through the ride with only 1 water bottle. James (Triathlete) was able to keep pace easily through his secret training regimen and considerable mitochondria biogenesis developed through running, swimming and biking 23 hours a day. Now the group was at a difficult crossroads. No, really the group was at Farrington and turned left.

At the 64 gas station we all refueled and drank copious fluids to reclaim the energy from the beginning of the ride. The Stems and Roses pulled up shortly after with Top Rookie bringing the riders safely in for a break. The Thorns decided that due to the sun's heat, that we would take a shorter route home. And with that decision, everyone saddled up and continued on 64 in route to Big Woods. Shawn went off the front with aggression and actually out-paced moving traffic for about a mile. This was very impressive. Eventually the group caught up to Shawn and we continued along 64, through Big Woods and Lystra ..until arriving at the second refueling station, the Farrington Sandles resort. After some rest, Sonic Boom suggested an alternative route to get back home, and was quickly rejected by the full council of Thorns, as it was way too hot. And they were right.

Now the sun was well overhead and the group decided to go back to Thorns and Roses Headquarters the old fashioned way, so they continued on to Martha's Chapel, 751, Strawberry Patch etc. At the final stage of the ride Sonic Boom tried to cajole other riders into the Max Hr zone on Cap'ns graveyard. Kee Kee and Sharol accepted the challenge and drove the front to an aggressive pace. A truly impressive performance. Sonic Boom then approached Triathlete by howling at him, and was quickly rebuked ....w Traithlete calmly informing him that he was an embarrassment to the Thorns. Everyone agreed.


The Thorns arrived back at Thorns and Roses headquarters doing 46 miles at a 19 MPH average, a great start to the weekend. Despite the seemingly dangerous nature of our mission that day as smoke jumpers, no one succumbed to the raging heat of summer, and all enjoyed themselves.

Following description for the same days ride is proveded by
Rob Robertson - Top Rookie

Saturday - or three hours in a toaster oven....


The following bikers were present:

Court
Jeff
June
Phillip
Jim
Mo
Anna
Cheryl
Hadas
Angie
Christy
Kiki
Shawn
Lee
Pat
Rob

I provided copies of the route to the Thorns/Stems and three Roses. I uickly explained what was going on and asked everyone to watch out for each ther and stay together. Lee agreed to manage the Thorns and I said I would sweep the Stems. Everyone headed out together and stayed together up to about High House. I then noted that one of the Roses had decided to ride with the Thorns and Stems. I never saw the other two Roses again, so I hope they enjoyed their route. On the way towards Holt, Phillip, the Rose, and another lady told me they were going to stick together (they had a cue sheet) and would probably drop off. I lost sight of them on Green Level West, went back 2 miles looking for them but never saw them, so I assume (hope) they made it back okay. I caught up with some of the Stems who had kindly waited for me, and we rode into the US-64 gas station just as the Thorns were heading out. Lee said the Thorns weren't going to do the planned loop south of US-64; they were going up Big Woods instead. The Stems were also all for this change in plans so we went that way too. By this time the heat was really starting to work on the group. We stopped at Lystra station and the consensus was that it was to damned hot to be outside, much less on a bike. Everyone decided we would head back. We went back to Martha's Chapel, then the Strawberry Patch. I asked if anyone wanted to turn onto Ferrell West (as per the cue sheet) - I got some pretty weird looks. So we went back per the normal Sisters/Graveyard/High House route. When we got back everyone else was gone so I assumed the Thorns must have cut things short; this was confirmed on Sunday morning. IIRC, the Stems did 48 miles at about a 17.5mph pace.

Sunday:

Three of us showed for some more heat:

Shawn (on a new fixie)
Jim
Rob

We decided to do the standard route to the lake and back. It was hot, real
hot, hotter than Saturday. Jim and Shawn were strong as usual - I was bushed before we even started and my performance suffered accordingly. They basically shredded me anytime we hit a hill. We ended up doing 34 miles at
about a 17.4 pace (mainly because they kept waiting on my slow butt to catch
up).


Rob

400 Meter Freestyle, and then some

THERE ARE TWO RIDE WRITE-UPS FOR THE DAYS RIDE.

Here is Saturdays ride as reported by Rob Robertson - Top Rookie
Here is a recap of Saturday's ride, as best I can remember. You'll have to


supply nicknames.

Around 30 riders assembled, all looking for the leader. None was to be
found (No Carbon, No GOG, no Theresa, No Immortal Man - nada). After a
phone call to you, there was real concern that the ship was indeed rudderless until Lee stepped up and said he had the route. He briefly explained it to everyone. At the start it appeared there were no Roses; only Thorns, Wanna-bees, and Stems. I suggested to Lee that we all regroup at the end of Ron's Pull; he agreed and we were off.

Here are the people I know about:

Rob Robertson
Lee
Sean
Tom
Jim
Christy
Jenn
Pat
Laura

And a whole slew of people I didn't know - including a large number of first timers (or so I think). I might have forgotten someone else I know or met - my apologies.

Thorns and Stems rode together all the way to, and past, Ron's Pull at a fast pace. We all crossed NC-55 together, but here the "Fast, Flat" idea fell apart. Somehow we all ended up at the intersection for Yates Store Road. Sean was leading and I personally think this was a thinly veiled attempt to cull the herd. Lee asked me if I could get back - like a fool I said, "Yes" and voila - I was designated Stem leader. This is proof that the blind can in fact lead the blind. Anyhow, Sean turns left (of course) and here comes Upchuck. All the stems were looking at each other like, "What the H*** have we gotten into?" I said, "Don't sweat it..." and we continued on. Tom threw a chain, otherwise, no issues I am aware of. At the turn after Upchuck, the Thorns took off and the Stems were on their own. We went down to Mt.Pisgah (where I threw a chain myself), then Ferrell Road, then Lewter Shop Road to the Strawberry Patch. We took Holland's Chapel to

Fearrington Road, then headed up to US-64 and the Wilsonville gas station (rest stop). At Fearrington Road, Christy (Pinky) and a lady friend I never met (note to self, get names BEFORE ride, not after...) took off to the right towards, I assume, Big Woods because they were looking for big miles. They had joined us on Mt. Pisgah when Christy dropped a water bottle. Never saw them again today. I think the Thorns went down to to Martha's Chapel Road before turning towards US-64, because they pulled in a few minutes after we got to the rest stop. Everyone re-hydrated and I consulted with Lee about next steps. I confirmed the "southern leg" of the ride, then passed it on to the rest of the Stems. There were, I think, ten or eleven Stems at this point (see earlier note to self). It was now that I heard that there had in fact been a first-timer Rose that had wanted to ride. She had evidently started out, found out she was going way too fast, and turned back around. I never saw her, nor did I ever learn her name. I feel bad about this, but I never knew or heard about her at all until we were 20 miles into the ride.

Anyhow, after all had rested, the Thorns took off - and we never saw them again. The Stems left a couple of minutes later, but not before one of the new Stems pulled a classic Arte Johnson in the gas station parking lot - I really wish I'd gotten her name!!! :-)

We headed south and did the Beaver Creek, Old US1, Old Elam, Pea Ridge Road, Beaver Creek loop. This was uneventful except, A) we were clicking along at 18-20 all the way, and B) An A$$**** passed us dangerously close on Pea Ridge road. I did my best GOG impersonation by yelling and giving him the single-finger salute - it was actually pretty spooky. We got back to the gas station/rest stop without further incident. At this point, not knowing the rest of the planned route, noticing it was quickly clouding over, and recognizing that we had 43 miles completed already, I suggested that we go to Holland's Chapel and take the normal way back in. All agreed and off we went back down Fearrington Road.

Now the fun starts.... By the time we got turned onto Holland's Chapel Road, Jim and I noticed that we had lost Laura. I told Jim that I'd go back to get her and asked Jim to have the group wait at the Strawberry Patch. He said okay, took off, and I turned around. Laura was walking right at the turn from Fearrington onto Holland's Chapel when I got back there - she had a flat rear tire. I stopped to help. She got the wheel off, then started fiddling with her pump. This is when she learned that one of her two CO2 cartridges didn't fit her pump and the other one was dead. I told her she could use mine. At this point she said she was just going to pump up her tire; since it hadn't gone completely flat she thought she might be able to limp in.

This was a bad idea.

She pumped up her tire - using my cartridge. She made it about ten yards then noted her tire was again flat. Now we have no air, except that my pump is dual action and can be used manually also. She changed out the tube, slapped on the pump, and promptly got nowhere. It turns out the valve stem has been broken. I gave her my tube, but since we were by now concerned about time, we decided that I would head on alone. There was an open (antique/craft?) store at this intersection so there were people around; else I would not have left her there. She tried to call her significant other and left a voice mail asking him to come for her. We agreed that she would call me if he got to her before I finished up and I would call her if I got back to Bruegger's before her significant other arrived (whereupon I'd head back to get her myself).

I made it about a half mile up Holland's Chapel when I saw Jim and a new rider named Amy heading to me. They had come back to look for us; the rest of the Stem group had headed in because a couple of people had time constraints. I assume Tom got them back in. Anyway, we rode back and, with my tube and Amy's CO2, we got Laura back on the road.

Based on this "experience", I respectfully submit to the Nickname Gods that Laura's nickname, henceforth, should be - "MECHANIC".

The rest of the ride was uneventful. Instead of taking the "Sisters" etc. route, we went down to Green Hope School Road and crossed the RR Tracks onto the end of Ron's Pull. From there we headed back in the normal way.

No idea what the Thorns did, but I figure the Stems that headed in on their own did at least 55 miles and (if they rode the same way as when I was with them) averaged at least 18mph. The four of us Laura, Jim, Amy, and myself) ended up with 56 miles at 18.2mph. Zoom-Zoom.

Despite the mechanical issues, it was a good, very fast ride.
Rob

Following is an account of the days ride from Lee Duncan - Sonic Boom.
Here is the Thorns write-up from Last Saturday, May 29th.


Entitled: 400 Meter Freestyle, and then some

On Saturday morning, the clouds started to clear and the storms from the night before seemed like a distant memory. There was a very good turnout; a clear indication that members of the Thorns and Roses are not only cycling fanatics, but also fanatical about checking The Weather Channel. GOG had provided excellent detail for the route Saturday morning, but most of the riders with the directions were not in attendance. As a last ditch effort, Lee Duncan "the replacement" pulled some handwritten instructions from his back pocket, scribed from GOGs e-mail. What ensued from this moment was a 400 Meter Freestyle, and then some. No swim cap required.

In attendance:

• A lot of people. Probably 10 - 20 people plus.

• Thorns: Frank, Shawn, Jeff, Pat, Lee, Karen and many others whose names I did not get.

The large group assembled at the start of the ride and had decided to stay together for as long as possible during the route. Shawn (Green Flash) took the reins and led the group through the warm-up corridor of Preston. Everyone seemed to stay together well and there were no major mechanicals which typically plague members during this warm-up stage. Out on Ron's Pull, a very stable pace line emerged, with the Green Flash establishing a challenging and stable speed for the group. This continued throughout the majority of this section until some rowdy Thorns advanced on Shawn toward the end, demonstrating unsportsmanship like conduct and taking advantage of the Green Flash's kindness at the start of the ride.

As the group passed the Carpenter Fire Station Road, it was discovered that a few members of the group had specific goals for the day and had commitments to be back at the Thorns and Roses headquarters earlier than normal. So over the next few miles, the riders sought out a leader for the newly chartered group, which I will call the STOSES (Stems + Roses). It took some work interviewing candidates at 18+ mph, but we eventually found the right person for the job. Because I don't know his name (please accept my apologies), "Blue Shirt" accepted the position of leading the newly formed group when the pace and conditions warranted.

Through this "re-org" process, "map man" -- aka Lee had lost guidance control of the Green Flash Rocket and he had accelerated off course towards upchuck. The unwary passengers had not expected this detour; hopefully they had their air sickness bags. However, everyone in the group stayed together through the climb and did a fantastic job scaling the mountain. We were all happy to have stayed together this long, showing the maturity and solid conditioning of the group. As the ride continued on, the riders exchanged positions at the front to be most efficient through Mt Pisgah Church, Farrell Rd, Lewter and Marthas Chapal. Towards the bonus points section of Marthas Chapel, the group witnessed an unbelievable show of physical prowess when "Pat" lit it up with her amazing sprint performance alongside Frank. Frank had mentioned later on that her performance captured the essence of the Thorns and Roses, putting it all out there for the glory, despite the oxygen debt that may ensue for the remaining ride.

The riders then took a left on its old Nemesis from the previous week, Fearrington Road, aka Jordan Lake. As we pedaled on, I thought I heard a faint and familiar melody in the background, that sounded like this: "The legend lives on from Cary on down, of the big lake they call lake Jordan, the lake it is said, never gives up her dead, when the skies of May turn hot and stuff"...or something like that. And with this, the riders started to feel the miles in their legs and decided to take a break at a grocery store that flanked Route 64. Everyone got refreshments, took a rest and joined the respective Thorn or STOSES group based on time and adventure needs.

Parting was sweet sorrow.

The Thorns were pulled by Frank and Jeff much of the remaining route to old US 1, New Elam Church and Pea Ridge to home... with Karen driving the pace line on many occasions.

Altogether it was great ride for the group, even though we had to freestyle a bit on the directions, with the Thorns doing over 50 miles at a very solid pace.

Gears and Cheers and Riding on the Storm

Saturday May 22


Write up presented by Joe Pittman – aka Immortal Man.

Here are some notes from Saturday's ride.

 folks were in the parking lot at 8:30 Saturday,
numbers down probably due to the weather forecast
and imposing clouds.
4 decided to ride a shorter route, about 25 miles.
There were three Thorns who agreed to go for a
50-miler:

- Joe  "Immortal Man" Pittman

- Lee   "Cervelo/Sonic Boom" Duncan

- Shawn "Green Flash" Richardson
After about a mile on High House, another guy joined us awhile. He was apparently looking for the CSH ride, because after about 20 miles, we passed the CSH guys and he told me that was his group, and turned around and joined them.
Anyway, the four of us went up High House and then down at the high school ("Ron's Pull?"/reverse Captain's Graveyard). Then left on Carpenter Fletcher, left on Green Level Church road, then out past the strawberry patch and down Martha's Chapel to the lake at Fearrington. We turned left, crossed US64 at Wilsonville store, then kept going to old US1. We survived a 10-minute spell of rain, but the weather improved and didn't turn out to be a factor at all. During this time, the other three riders did most of the pulling, we spent a lot of time between 22 and 24mph; my pulls were short and slower, and grew less useful as the miles passed.

Once CSH guy turned around, I warned Lee and Shawn that I was gassed and might drop off the back, they encouraged me to wheel-suck for the rest of the ride, which I did.

They dragged me back up New Hill-Holleman, then back across US64 and down NC751 all the way to near Southpoint. Then to Yates Store Rd, Morrisville Carpenter and across NC55. I was really suffering on the hills late in the ride, and turned the two guys loose down Captain's Graveyard to the finish.

Lee and Shawn were very strong throughout, and finished the ride 52 miles at 21.1 mph.

Joe rolled in about 5 minutes later, for an average of about 20.5.

It was the fastest long ride I've ever done, thanks very much to Lee and Shawn for pulling me along, and taking it easy at a couple of rough spots for me.
--
Joe P

This next write up is offered from Lee Duncan aka Sonic Boom

Here is the Thorns write-up from Last Saturday, May 22nd.

Entitled: Riding on the storm

The route Saturday was planned to be a flat, fast, out and back route, with 2 planned rest stops. However, with the ominous weather prediction, just a handful of Thorns were willing to submerge their bikes, so there were 3 Thorns in attendance, with a celebrity Thorn appearance by Dileep (still negotiating appearance fees). Dileep used good judgement to adjust his route and miles for the rain, and was off with another group.

In attendance:

Joe Pittman – Immortal Man – Rides up front with the Thorns, and can be called upon to inject logic and reason when necessary.

Shawn Richardson – The Green Flash. High performance Thorn with great ability to manage the pace and organization of the group.

Lee Duncan – Sonic Boom – Riding a helium filled Cervelo bike.

The mini group assembled in the parking lot when The Green Flash made a suggestion .. "today we should try something different...let's work together as opposed to attacking and beating the crap out of each other.." The observing Thorns thought this was a breakthrough concept...

As if there was an architectural desire to put the 3 most navigationally challenged people together as a social experiment, the 3 Thorns had no idea where to go, but wanted to see through GOGs suggestion for flat and fast. So the 3 Thorns saddled up on their bikes and headed off to see what adventure awaited them.

The 3 riders headed out of the parking lot and onto High House road, and opted for a couple route changes to get into the main route as fast as possible. It was at this moment that a mystery rider whom I will call "Racer X" pulled up from behind. Racer X was wearing an "Inside Out Sports" Jersey, and sporting a Cervelo frame with big deep dish Zipp wheels. The mystery rider seemed interested to join our group, so we greeted him with great hospitality by allowing him to pull us in laborious fashion through the back route to Carpenter Fire Station Road. This was necessary, as we wanted him to pay dearly for those deep dish Zipps. He was happy to oblige.

The riders stayed in tight formation passing by the Fire Station, until taking a sharp left just after Wachovia bank (Green Level to Durham). The speed intensified as Racer X accelerated his pace, pulling the group at speeds in excess of 24 mph. The intensity stayed unabated as they continued on route up the long hill past the traditional Cary Glen turn off and then turning right on Green Level Church.

As the group continued its route along Green Level Church (highway to the Berry Patch) the ominous clouds started to appear. However Immortal Man was still feeling fresh at this point and doing great pulls, along with the Green Flash. Nothing was going to stop the riders as they were feeling strong working together.

All that changed after the rain started.

The Green Flash and Immortal man took turns shooting rouster tails into the air and spraying Sonic Boom incessantly. The tight slipstream enjoyed earlier was now a laterally staggered group, as no one wanted to be put through the sprayer. This continued off and on through Martha's Chapel and the left onto Fearrington Road. Racer X, as if the rain increased his supernatural strength, started turning the screws on the Thorns, and all held on as we cruised across the great flats of Jordan Lake. It was apparent at this point that the Green Flash and Racer X were going to be the work horses of the ride, as Immortal Man and Sonic Boom were reaching for the smelling salts. The pace continued this way until Racer X spotted the fast group from CSH and pulled a U turn, leaving the remaining Thorns to their own devices.

---But the group held together through the rest of the trip: Beaver Creek, Old US 1, New Hill Olive Chapel, 751, Okelly Chapel, Stonewater Glen and back through Carpenter Fire Station road to Home. It was a great ride as the Thorns all worked together to get through the difficult weather conditions.

The band of Thorns rolled into the parking lot at 11:05AM, completing 52 Miles at a 21.1 MPH computer average. A ride that lived up to the expectation of flat and fast. Because the ride went so well, the small band of Thorns took an oath that day to Never Ever cooperate in that fashion again.


Gears and Cheers

This next write up is a brief description of the Gears and Cheers ride.

The threat of rain did not dampen several folks to make the trip to the start of the Gears and Cheers ride.

Those in attendance included:

Kevin Smit – GOG

Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa

Rob Robertson – Top Rookie

Jim Coughlin – Domestique

Laura Spell – No name yet – GOG is watching closely to assign a fitting nick name to Laura.

Jason – Friend of Laura’s – he rides normally wit the CSH A riders, and showed great restraint by staying with the group on the days ride. On several occasions he would ride on ahead and then loop back to rejoin the group. Other times he would deliberately fall way back and then push to chase the group down..

Phillip Burton – planed to do the shorter ride distance. There just might be a name in the works for this rider after the days ride.



GOG and Mother Theresa brought a 10 x 10 pop up canopy and lawn chairs. Their plan was to sit in the shade at the end of the ride and sip wine.

Most of the Thorns and Roses that were in attendance planed to ride the metric Century, Phillip had announced the most he had ridden on any day so far was 34 miles and he was not prepared to double that by doing the metric Century. He was riding a shorter route. This was all the group needed to start applying peer pressure on Phillip to join them on the 62 mile route and not do the shorter wimpy route. The route had many rolling hills and a few steep short climbs. The threat of rain grew with each minute of the clock. There were rest stops at 10, 20, 35, and 50 miles that the entire group took advantage of. There was one BIG BAD DOG on the route that almost devoured several of the riders. GOG barked at the DOG and pointed to it as if to suggest it should stay put, and it obeyed him as he went by.


Phillip started the ride with the group but made it known he was planning to do the 40 mile route vs the 63 miles everyone else was planning to ride. At the 9 mile mark The pack rolled over the markings that told those on the route wanting to do the shorter route should make a left turn others looking to do 62 should stay straight. GOG was at the front of the draft line and did not give a shout out to Phillip to make the marked turn. Phillip was sucked along onto the 62 mile route. After about a half mile GOG was heard saying “Hey Phillip I see you decided to join us after all”. It then dawned on Phillip that he had been duped into the 62 miler. “Don’t worry we will all work together to get you thru to the finish, Trust Us” GOG said with a great big smile on his face. The group did a great job of holding a pace line that only splintered on the various climbs. They then worked to regroup once there was any lull in the hill action. No one was dropped or allowed to fall back out of sight. Laura rode a very smooth, solid, and powerfully as she rode pushing her pace to match the pressure of each hill. Jim - Domestique rode for periods in the draft line and then would surge on up the road to then drift back into the safety of the pace line. GOG attempted to keep himself near the front of the pace line in an effort to control the pace. On several occasions the sky appeared ready to unload on the cyclists but managed to restrain itself until long after the ride was completed. Those doing the shorter route reported that they had been rained on.

Rob – Top Rookie rode will within his abilities and seemed to enjoy the more relaxed pace and each of the rest stops. Mother Theresa rode very strong and did her best to attack the hills until she ran out of gas near the end as everyone was then beating into a strong head wind.

Philip did Awesome. He rode smartly in the slip stream of the draft line and near the end he and GOG had a two man break away working as they pushed hard into the head winds. Well Done Philip. He was Clearly ready for the longer miles. On this ride he doubled his longest ride of the season.
Double your miles Double your Pleasure. Hmmm maybe there is a name there.

Upon completion of the ride the group all met in the lawn chairs under the shade of the 10 x 10 pop up tent provided by Mother Theresa and GOG. The group enjoyed the food and wine tasting provided by the ride organizers. They continued to enjoy extra wine that GOG brought and when that was gone several purchased bottles of wine from the winery to share with the group. Lots of stories were shared between the riders as the clock slowly ticked towards supper time and beyond. The Thorns and Roses were the last group to leave the venue as the winery was preparing to close and lock their doors. A great time on the bike and a great time after in the shade drinking wine, listening to the live music, and the many stories provided by the members of the group.  will do this ride again.

To see the route click here

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/34501998

Filling, Spicy, Hot Saturday, relaxed recovery Sunday

Saturday May 15

GOG planed the day’s route to be very Filling, Spicy and HOT. He peppered the route with as many hills as he could in the 50 – 60 miles, including one large Tia Pepper labeled Lystra. He used special UV Rays Hot sauce that required layers of sun Block. This UV Ray sauce resulted in a burning sensation that no amount of water could remove from the experience. GOG stirred this all up utilizing the forces of Mother Nature’s Head Winds. The route was so filling that each rider monitored, for themselves, when they had been fully satisfied. Some consumed 40 miles worth others 52 miles worth and yet some were looking for the full experience and consumed all 60 miles worth.

At the end of the ride some complained of the UV hot sauce, some of the Spicy hills, some of the portion they were expected to consume. Others ranted and raved about the experience and made it known they would love to do it again.

The largest attendance, The Longest, hottest, Hilliest ride for the Thorns and Roses this season.

Attendance included:
Rob Robertson – Rob wins the White Jersey for the Best Rookie rider. Rob has only been biking since November of 09. He has consistently met the challenge of the Thorns and is riding stronger each day. Rob is totally hooked on biking and wishes he had started years ago. ROB’s nick name will be TOP ROOKIE.
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa – pushing herself each ride to hang longer and longer with the pack.
Kevin Smit – GOG – continuing to have BONKING issues – not one of his best seasons so far.
Harlan Allan – Harlan does a great deal of mountain biking and is smooth and solid on his road bike.
Jim Coughlin – been riding with the Thorns and Roses only a couple of weekends and already worthy of a nick name. Jim is a very strong rider, and loves to participate in the banter that takes place on each ride. He clearly belongs with the group. Jim has not ridden in very many pace lines and is just now picking up tips on how to ride in a pack. Currently his riding style has a tendency to surge and then fall back then surge and fall back. This is a tactic that Domestiques use as they fall back to the team car to gather water bottles and race up to the ream leader to distribute fresh water to him and the rest of the team. Jim is a lot of fun to ride with as he passes you and then falls back behind you. The other riding style Jim currently has is to drift left and right rather than hold a steady line. This is another technique used by the Domestiques to block other riders from gaining position on the teams ride leader. I think a great nick name for Jim is Domestique.
Ron Clanton – Ron has been with the Thorns and Roses for about as long as the group has been formed. He has never done anything that GOG could use against him in the creation of a nick name. Ron is just Ron. When GOG was visiting with Ron and others on the challenge GOG is having in coming up with a nick name he suggested that Ron is Just Ron. Everyone loved it and so after 4 or 5 years of riding with the group, and from a casually conversation about the challenge of naming him Ron’s nickname has been born. Ron Clanton is now – JUST RON.
Tracy Clanton – Rides with Ron on their tandem a great deal. She like Ron has been a regular with the Thorns and Roses for the many years the group has been in existence. Tracy enjoys the Roses and peddles the tandem with soft smooth peddling strokes that makes it challenging to keep up behind the tandem as they blast down the road. Tracy has no aspirations in becoming a Thorn; she takes great pride in being one of the founding ROSES. She, along with other Roses, continues to promote the spirit of a social ride. Her nickname is now – ROSE PEDDLER.
Carrie Zelna – Mother Goose. Carrie is one of the strongest female Thorns in the bunch. She was with the Pack of Thorns all 60 miles and at the top of every climb. WOW she can really give the Boys a thrill.
Megan Heggarty – this was Megan’s first ride with the group. She attempted to ride with the Roses but somehow was gapped and then followed another rider who took a wrong turn. Megan continued to ride in the area and eventually found herself re-connecting with the Roses. She then finished the ride with them. After sitting around socializing with the Roses she decided to head out to find Nicole who had started with the Thorns and was finishing with the Stems. Megan somehow found that group as she was headed out on Green Level towards Luther. Not clear if Nicole saw Megan first or if Megan saw Nicole first but they were both excited to see one another. So once again Megan sniffed out the riders she was looking for. Then when completing the ride with Nicole and others she realized she had lost her car keys somewhere on the ride. She thought long and hard on where that might have happened and determined it might be found at the Tobacco trail parking lot on White Oak Church road. Nicole then drove out there to see if it was where Megan had predicted. Sure enough Megan was able to sniff out the location of her lost keys even from that far away. No other rider in the history of this group has been able to sniff out not one, but two of the ride groups on a single day, and then sniff out a set of lost keys. From this day forward with the Thorns and Roses Megan will be known as BLOOD HOUND.
James Lavin – NC state Triassholete – Pushed the pace upfront with the Thorns.
Brian Martin – another hammer head that also pushed the pace for the Thorns. GOG fails constantly to remember Brain’s real name and repeatedly calls him Dwight. Sorry to both Brain and Dwight.
Vicki Welch – second time riding with the group and rode on the days ride with the Roses.
Christy Miller – Pink Triassholete – rode with the Thorns up to the Lystra Gas Station then led a group back from there to the finish. Those with her had had their fill of the days ride with many of them planning to run long on Sunday and did not want to impact that planed run. Pinky was actually doing the ½ marathon that next day in Umstead.
Rita Beard – Rita is a strong rider and has ridden with the group a couple of times. She started the ride with the Thorns and then elected to join Nicole and others as the Stems group was formed.
David Bridenbaugh - Mr. Bridenbaugh – was asked to lead the Thorns. Mr. Bridanbaugh has ridden with the group for many years and knows all the roads and their nicknames. This made it easy for GOG to convey to him the planned route. GOG also knew that Mr. Bridenbaugh would do everything in his power to ensure the group remained intact and that no one would have to ride alone. As always THANK YOU MR. BRIDENBAUGH for your leadership.
Nicole Lewis – Nicole has been a huge supporter of this ride group. She continues to tell others about the group and encourages them to join in on the fun. She has been so successful at that that some of the new riders asked if this was Nicole’s ride. Nicole even has a section of road named after her. She christened the road by her excited explanation of how the hills there allowed one to ride it much like a roller coaster. Nicole has an intoxicating personality that puts a smile on everyone around her. She is a social butterfly that has no fear of meeting and greeting others. On rides she flits in and out of the pack fluttering between the cyclists to interact with each of them. The entire time she is riding she continues her smooth riding technique and appears to be powerful and yet delicate on the peddles, applying just enough power with each stroke to meet the needs of the moment. Everyone notices her when she is around. On the days ride she was stopped by more than one cyclists and motorist who knew who she was. At one point on the ride GOG dubbed her the Social Chairman for the Greater Raleigh area. She is truly a Social Butterfly that puts a smile on all around her. So Nicole with be known as SOCIAL BUTTERFLY, or BUTTERFLY for short.
Debbie Springer – GOG has not yet ridden with her long enough to share any pertinent information.
Matt Fowler – No solid information on this rider yet. Stay tuned as both Matt and GOG must find away to ride together a couple of times. Or, any one in the group is welcomed to turn Matt in for any biking fopaux.
Joe Pittman – Immortal Man – Rides up front with the Thorns, and can be called upon from time to time to act as ride leader. Joe loves to tear it up, but also understands the spirit of the ride and helps keep an eye on the group.
Jeff Giordano – Claim Jumper – another rider that is always capable of riding with the Thorns but finds just as much pleaser to ride with the Stems. Claim Jumper is another rider who helps keep an eye on all those in the pack. You can count on him to stop and help if needed.
Lee Duncan – Sonic Boom – from the first time Lee rode with the group all the Thorns took notice. Lee has always been there to challenge and to accept all challenges thrown out during a days ride. Lee is even a greater threat to the Thorns since he moved from his heavy Steel is Reel bike to his new All Carbon Cervelo. Lee needs to make sure he keeps a close eye on his bike. Several Thorns have been overheard plotting to have someone steal his new bike so he is less of a threat to them.
Jae Brainard – One of the founding Mothers of the Roses. Jae consistently takes the reigns and leads the Roses on Saturday rides. She has several routes she uses and makes her choice on that day depending on the collective size and ability of those riding with her. Jae does not yet have a nickname, and may never have one. How do you give a nickname to a Matriarch?
Barbra Hartsfield – another rider who has ridden on and off over the last several seasons. She is a strong rider in the Roses ranks.
Andy Hartsfiled – Andy rides on occasions with the group and elected to ride the days ride with the Roses.
Angie Magdalena – Angie is relatively new to the ride group. She rode very strong with the Stems for the entire days ride.
Tom Plant – Power Stroker – has ridden with the group over several seasons. Lately he has been showing up for every Saturday ride. On this days ride he rode solidly with the Stems once they were formed at the Lystra Gas Station. Prior to that all but a handful of riders rode with the Thorns to the Lystra Gas station where the formal split took place.
Amy Holt – first time with the group. She rode with Angie and the stems for the entire days route. She maintained a smile the entire route even though it was the hottest , Hilliest, and longest ride of the season. At one point GOG commented on seeing nothing but her smiling face in his mirror for the entire length of Horton Pond (Hemorrhoid Hell). Not sure if she was smiling due to enjoying riding with the group, or riding for that far, or riding on the road nicknamed Hemorrhoid Hell. Hmmmmmm.
Shawn Richardson – The Green Flash. Another top performing Thorn. The Green Flash will incent or participate in every attack. Yet if needed the Green Flash will protect the pack and work to keep all together if the situation calls for that. The Green Flash does not yet know all the roads as well as Mr. Bridenbaugh, but he clearly knows more of the roads than Capn Carbon does.
David Oyler – first time with the group. Part of a strong father son team. Rode with the Thorns. Welcome to the group and we hope you ride again.
Geoffrey Oyler – first time with the group, the other half of the Father Son race team. We expect to see him again.
Ping Mok – Back to ride with the group for the first time this season. Welcome back Ping.
Janice Sitzes - Recently joined the group and was returning to ride again. Welcome back.
Mariann Ramsayer – first time riding with the group. Hope to see her again on future rides.
Steve Mark - Started the days ride with the Thorns and then jumped in with the Stems after the Thorns caught them having done an extra 7 – miles including the Climb up Lystra. Yes the Thorns caught the Stems even having done an extra loop that included Lystra. The Thorns are fast and hills mean nothing to them.
Jim Palistrant – Jim is best classified as a solo rider that periodically picks a group ride to jump in with based on his needs. Jim is always pushing the pace regardless of riding solo or antagonizing a group to ride faster. Every time Jim rides with the group he is quick to antagonize the Thorns into more miles, faster pace, more climbs. From this day forward Jim Palistrant will be known as THE ANTAGONIST.


The report on the days ride is best summed up in the information provided in the information related to who was in attendance. Notice the Lack of Steve Cope – Capn Carbon. He was missed, and that resulted in a faster more aggressive ride for the Thorns.

Below are short desciptions of incidents that transpired on the route that GOG was able to observer and remember, that is then followed with a brief report from Mr. Bridenbaugh who had accepted the challenge to lead the Thorns on the planned route.

GOG left the parking lot late along with Angie, Amy, and Mother Theresa. He is no fool riding with 3 lovely ladies.

The pack exploded out of the parking lot and never looked back as they feed off of each rider in the large Peloton.

GOG was nauseous as he reached the rolling hills of Mount Pisgah. He began to plan his abandoning of the route by mile 12.

Mother Theresa blew past those riding with her on the first major climb on Mount Pisgah. She is working to increase her response to the pace and to the challenge presented by hills.

Angie and Amy chit chatted the entire route while GOG had no ability to visit since he was in an early death march at mile 12.

GOG attempted to pull the team he was riding with towards closing the gap on the Thorns. It took him little time to realize it was a futile attempt. At one point he announced to Angie, Ami and Mother Theresa that catching the pack was not possible due to the packs large size and its ability to feed off of each other. What GOG did not share with them is that it would have been no problem for Capn Carbon to close the gap.

Amy and Angie were happy and rode very comfortably trusting GOG would lead them on the correct path. They had no fear, and assumed GOG knew and had the ability to take good care of them. Little did they know.

At Lystra Gas Station GOG and his small band were reunited with the Stems. The Thorns had demonstrated no patience as they had already headed out to climb Col De Lystra. At the Gas Station GOG was already in the early stages of a BONK and was thinking of heading back to the start. Nicole took no pity on the GOG as she was laughing at his dew rage that he wears under his helmet to assist with his sweat management. GOG had no energy to banter with her as he struggled to figure out how to get more water into his water bottle. Then GOG spotted Rob ( TOP ROOKIE) who had been wanting to do the climb on Lystra. “Rob you elected NOT to do Lystra” he asked. Rob had a very confused look on his face. “The Thorns already headed out to do the climb, I am not headed there, Don’t have it in me Today” GOG went on to explain. “Who else wants to do Lystra” GOG shouted. Other than Rob only Jim (Domestique) wanted to climb Lystra. Christy Miller ( PinK Triassholette) had already rallied a group to join her in heading straight back to the start finish. Many of them including her were planning long Sunday runs and did not want any extra miles, heat, or hills to ruin that. GOG then recognized there was yet another group stuck in the middle. They did not want to climb Lystra and its extra 7 – 10 miles, and they did not want to yet head back. GOG now needed to step up to the plate and offer them an alternative and a ride leader. GOG first made sure Pinky had full control of the group headed back to the Finish. Pinky is very capable of leading the group and with little fan faire all said their goodbyes to the group. Now GOG’s attention was on Top Rookie and Domestique to help them plan their assault on Cul De Lystra and their route back to the start finish. GOG plotted a route that should provide them the climb and an ability to latter catch up to the Stems if all rode at the pace expected. GOG then rounded up the remaining cyclists to assure them he would be there to lead them on a great run down Big Woods and on into the finish with as many hills as possible. IT was then that Angie took GOG to the side and said “do you really want to do this? Your health is more important than the groups needs”. WOW she sounded like GOG’s Mother, and yet she was very observant. GOG was struggling and she was concerned, Thank You Angie. She has the Spirit of the Ride already figured out.

All said goodbye as the group was now formally splintered into The Thorns (who left before all were assembled) the Thorn chasers ( Top Rookie and Domestique), one group of Stems headed back to the finish, and one group of Stems headed towards the Big Woods time trial run.

Those headed towards Big Woods did a solid job of remaining together its entire length. Several riders took turns in the pull position as the rolling hills challenged the group and the group responded by forcing themselves to retain close to 20 mph average on its 5 mile length. At one point on that section of road the pack was climbing one of the longest grades while Rita was attempting to have a conversation with GOG. “ So, how have you been” she asked. GOG knew Rita was showing no disrespect, she just did not recognize an old man having a small heart attack. GOG’s response was delayed and calculated to be as brief as possible and yet responsive to her inquiry. “GREAT” responded GOG. Then the Pack was headed down the back side of the climb and GOG was able to provide more information. “yea I took early retirement, but am back doing some consulting while also doing Real Estate, Also spent some time with my Mom who just had a Heart attack and helped her shop for foods low in sodium, not an easy task to find floods low in sodium, have to do all fresh” he was heard choking out in small short sentences. This appeared to be too much information as Rita elected to fall back towards the end of the pace line. GOG really has a way with the Ladies.

The Stems finished their time trial run on Big Woods and had just stopped at the intersection at Highway 64 to rest and regroup. Before they could collect themselves the Thorns rushed in and surrounded them, having just completed an extra 7 – 10 miles including the climb up Col De Lystra. Before the Stems could collect themselves for the turn onto Highway 64 several of the Thorns had jumped across the intersection and were already powering towards the gas station at Wilsonville.

After the push across Lake Jordan the Stems and Thorns had all arrived at the next rest stop. All used the stop to fill water bottles, and to use the portable bathroom. GOG used the time to sit in the shade and to consume a couple of cubes of ShockBlocks. Nicole busied herself by visiting with all the other cycling groups that had stopped at the gas station. She was telling several all about the Thorns and Roses when suddenly she noticed her hair dresser had just pulled up in their car. Clearly Nicole knows, or will soon know, all residence in Wake County.

The Thorns were first to mount up and head on out towards Cary. Jim Palistrant (The Antagonist) asked GOG “are we doing Pee Ridge”. The expression on Jim’s faces was one of great expectations and hope that the Thorns would be adding lots of extra miles and even more hills. “NO, just headed back towards the end with as many hills as I could plan for” replied GOG. “So how many more miles” Jim asked. “ Probably 20 miles and Lots of smaller hills peppered in for good measure” responded GOG. “So maybe another hour of riding then” announced Jim. Jim seemed pleased with the answer and elected to continue to ride with the Thorns rather than engineer a longer hiller solo ride for himself.

A couple of the Thorns elected to remain at the rest stop with the knowledge that the Stems would soon be headed back as well. This was the intent of the planed route, to allow several spots were riders can jump between the various packs that form on the days ride.

The Stems soon headed out by crossing over 64 and rolling on down Farrington to Horton Pond and its undulating hills and rough surface. The surface of this section of road saps the strength of a rider as arms, legs and butt all work together as a suspension on a car does to soften the ride experience. This section of road is known to the group as Hemorrhoid HELL.

The group next made the turn onto Luther after s short jig and jog onto and off of 751. Here again the pack was met with more hills. A very short rest at the next Tee intersection to hydrate before turning onto the next set of hills on Green Level.

It was after the first short climb on Green Level that Nicole and Megan were reunited. Megan was heading back out from Cary to find Nicole and let her know she was OK. They stopped to hug as the rest of the Stems planned their approach to the next climb.

As the pack crested the hill were Wimberly intersects Green level a truck puling a trailer of sailboats navigated a passing effort around the riders and then a sharp right turn onto Wimberly. GOG had just passed the intersection when he heard CRUNCH, SLIDE, SCREECH, THUMP, BUMP, RATTLE. He quickly glanced in his mirror to see if any riders were down. All riders were up and accounted for. At the next brief rest stop on White oak Church those who had been passed by the truck explained to the group that the truck pulling the trailer made the turn onto Wimberly and the trailer tipped over spilling the sailboats all over the road. The driver had made the turn much too aggressively and paid dearly for that.

Next the Stems headed down Lewter shop and then into Cary Glenn and the section of road/hills known to the group as Nicole’s Roller Coaster. GOG asked Steve to take anyone who wanted to attack that section with him but to regroup on the other side prior to turning onto Carpenter Fire Station. Steve knew exactly what GOG was asking for and he assured GOG that he would take the lead. GOG continues to look for and challenge others to lead as the situations arise. Over time GOG will be able to rely on a large number or riders to take over the leadership of various rides. This will become more and more important as GOG continues to get Slower and Slower on the bike.

Steve did a solid job of leading the group and then bringing all riders back together after Nicole’s Roller Coaster. GOG then asked the group to make sure everyone re-grouped one more time near the beginning of Capn’s Grave Yard (corner of Morrisville Carpenter and Carpenter Upchurch). This would allow Mother Theresa to then direct the group into the end by traveling thru the back side of Preston keeping everyone off of the high traffic area of High house Road.

As the cyclists were riding single file and somewhat splintered on Carpenter Fire Station Road GOG heard from behind “Get out of the way, HEE HEE HEE”. IT was TOP ROOKIE, and Domestique. They had completed their Run Up COL DE Lystra and were now running down the Stems. A job Well Done by these two strong riders. Rob (Top Rookie) was particularly pleased with his performance and was taking great joy in having run down the pack of Stems.

Mother Theresa took control at the last regroup point, slowed the pace to allow for each rider to warm down as she guided all through the remaining turns and final hills for the days ride.

NEXT IS THE REPORT FROM MR. BRIDENBAUGH.
Kevin,

What a diabolical route you picked for today!!! Not sure if you got a
report from anyone else with the Thorns. This was definitely the
strongest group of Thorns I have been out with in a while. I don't
remember the names of everyone that was with us (about 7-8 riders total
I think). After we left the first store stop on Farrington, I resorted
to "leading from the rear" so I wouldn't get dropped. SONIC BOOM could
not be slowed today. He attacked relentlessly, he attacked the climbs,
he even attacked downhill on Jack Bennett! I kept thinking he would
eventually run out of energy, but did not happen. Can somebody hide his
new bike? Immortal Man had a really strong ride today and about
splintered the pack on Big Woods. Killer Bee did a great job helping
keep everyone together. I think he may have been first over Lystra, but
I was too far back to tell for sure. Once we left the second store stop
at Wilsonville things settled down and I think heat and fatigue were
becoming a factor for many of us. We slowed to a more reasonable pace
(20ish??) and rolled back into town. I turned off at my usual spot near
Davis Drive, knowing that Immortal Man and Killer Bee would shepherd the
group back to Brueggers. Thorns averaged a little over 19 mph, total
distance for me was 58.9 miles, probably 56-57 for the pack. Super
strong group today, ouch.

Mr. Bridenbaugh


Thank You Mr. Bridenbaugh for sharing what happens within the ranks of the THORNS.

A solid performance by all riders.
The Thorns completed 57 – 60 miles at an 19+ mph pace.
Top Rookie and Domestic completed 55 miles at 18 + mph pace.
The Stems completed 53 miles at 16.4 mph pace
The Roses did their consistent 35 miles at a smooth 14 mph pace.

Later that day several of the riders posted on their Facebook pages how well they enjoyed the challenging ride that was presented them that day.

Sunday May 16th.

A small turn out. Many others were focused on their long runs, or swims, or were participating in the Umstead half Marathon. Still others were at home recovering from Saturdays Filling, Hot, Spicy ride.

Those in attendance included;
Rob Robertson – Top Rookie – back for more, completely addicted to biking.
Jim Coughlin – Domestique – with the same excitement he had the first time he rode with the group.
Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa – She earned this name from others who view her as a Saint for putting up with GOG all these many years.
Kevin Smit – GOG (Glistening Older Gentleman) – named by one of the Barista’s at Caribou when she was asked if Kevin had finished one of the days rides. Her response was “You mean that Older Glistening Gentleman?” The truth was that Kevin was Sweating so badly they had to mop the floor after he left the counter top area.
Fernanda Barrera - first time with the group. She was sporting a Time Trial Bike that was used on the Tour De France. One of only twenty built. Fernanda and her husband are from Mexico and had moved to the area about 2 years ago. She is working her way back into Triathlon shape after having been away from it being a new Mother.

The group rode very relaxed the entire day. GOG elected to treat the group to one of the ROSES routes. The Route included rolling down sections of Green Hope High School Road, and Lewter Shop. Top Rookie took the win at the county line on Lewter shop. The route then swung onto Farrell and then onto the hills of Mount Pisgah. GOG then directed the pack onto New Hope Church towards the Top of Upchuck, to then lead the group onto the paved section of the Tobacco Trail. This was a fun, easy, scenic change of pace for the group. The route left The Tobacco trail as it intersected with Okelly were the group had a couple of hills to climb prior to turning onto Yates Store and the additional hills it presented to the group. GOG then directed the pack to make the left turn onto Carpenter Fire Station road and the final run on into the finish at Brueggers. On the ride the group learned more about Fernanda and her special bike. The bike is so unique that she is unable to locate bolts to fit the water bottle cage. Apparently Pinarello who made the bike only machined enough bolts for the twenty bikes and maybe an extra bolt or two and no long have any to replace the one she is missing. In addition her Campy Carbon Aero front wheel was making nocking noises as if the bearings were needing attention. She planed to take the bike in to one of the best bike mechanics in the area, The Cycle Surgeon – Matt Loder. We hope to ride soon again with Fernanda and her Tricked out Tour de France Pinarello Time Trial bike. Maybe she can convince her husband to come out and join the fun as well.

The group rode a comfortable 27 miles at 15 mp

Happy Mothers Day ride

Sunday May 9th.

A cooler day but still a great deal of Head Winds awaited the riders.

Those in attendance included:

Kevin Smit – GOG

Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa

Vicki Welch – first time riding with the group

John Garitty – resting with a bike ride after his Saturday 8 mile run.

Heather Yandow – first time riding with the group, and a team member with Kevin and Theresa on the MS 150 Hibernian team.

Shawn Richardson – Killer Bee on his fixie

Kiki Rodriquez – fist time riding with the group – friend of the Pink Triassholette

David Bridenbaugh – Mr. Bridenbaugh – still complaining about be jettisoned on Saturdays ride.

Scott Pate – first time riding with the group – neighbor to Mr. Bridenbuagh

Jennifer Erdman – riding with the group for the first time.

The pack rolled out of the parking lot today without Capn Carbon. GOG was expecting either Mr. Bridenbaugh, John Garitty, or Killer Bee to push the pace on the days ride. GOG did not have any knowledge of the riding ability of those riding with the group for the first time.

At one point in the ride while still in the Preston Neighborhood GOG was looking in his mirror and spied Scott riding very comfortably. His riding style and apparel reminded GOG of George Hincapie. “Hey Scott you look like you could punish any of us on a bike, you look a lot like Hincapie” teased GOG. “Give him one or two weeks on the bike and he will give the Thorns a run for their money. And you are right he does look like Hincapie, must be the sunglasses” added Mr. Bridenbaugh.

GOG then found himself riding behind KIKI who was riding a bike that looked new or recently detailed. “WOW your rear Cluster is so clean it is blinding me, how much do you have to pay to get your bike detailed” GOG announced to Kiki. “I like to keep my rear end clean” she bantered back. Clearly Kiki was prepared for the verbal abuse and was poised to give it right back. Well done Kiki.

The pack did a solid job of staying together through Preston and onto Ron’s Pull. Killer Bee managed the pack and its pace from the pull position. He and Mr. Bridenbaugh showed great control and restraint as they worked to keep all riders in tow down Ron’s Pull. Just as the pack was passing Green hope High School GOG noticed glass in the road along the curb. Before he could yell out to others there came the tell tale sound of a flat in progress.

PSST…..SSSSSSSSsssssssss.

“WE got a Flat” GOG yelled out to the pack. Those in front slowed and then came to a stop. Those behind navigated around GOG and John Garitty who realized he had the flat.

GOG pulled up next to john, laid his bike in the grass and began to assist John with the task of fixing the rear wheel flat. The two worked in tandem. It was not a tire change that could assist a racer to get back into the race, it was not technically adept as a bike mechanic, but it was accomplished with high fives to celebrate the repair.

Back on Ron’s Pull the pace line formed and completed a smooth run to the next intersection. The pack lucked out with a green light to cross Highway 55 and onto the long fast stretch of Carpenter Fire Station. Here again Killer Bee did a phenomenal job controlling the pace allowing all cyclists to remain in the draft line.

Is it possible that the Killer Bee has a kinder gentler side to him?

GOG was so impressed with the control Killer Bee was demonstrating that he commented on the fine job he was doing supporting all in the draft line with his solid smooth pace.

GOG directed the group to make the left turn onto Green Level Church toward the Cary Glenn Neighborhoods. “Lets stay straight on this and not do the 3 Ugly Sisters” was the next set of instructions from GOG. The pack then made the right turn onto the road that heads towards the strawberry patch. This road has at least 3 names so it is easier to call it the road to the strawberry patch. It was on this road that the cyclists were slapped in the face with the full force of the day’s head wind. Killer Bee once again took full command of the front of the pace line. He held the group up until the last rider had made the turn into the wind and was tucked tightly into the pace line. He then slowly and delicately pulled the group, stepping them into an ever increasing speed.

GOG was actually starting to feel sorry for the Killer Bee because Capn Carbon was not there for him to play with. Those two enjoy attacking each other over and over and over again. It is much like watching two people debating each other with neither one wanting the other to get in the last word.

GOG decided he would give Killer Bee at least one chance to play. So as the pace line approached the county line, a favorite spot to attack, GOG slowly picked up his speed and glided up along Killer Bee.

The response was immediate.

Killer Bee locked onto GOG’s pace.

GOG then inched forward only to have his front tire position matched by the BEE.

GOG then applied even more effort only to instantly be match again by the BEE.

This went on several time until GOG was in a position of either having to shift to keep from over spinning, or to stand and announce the sprint was on.

Just as GOG was struggling with his next move a gust of wind hit him so hard he was convinced he had stepping into the ring with Mohamed Ali. His response was to gasp for air and let out a slight whimper. That was the gun shot sound Killer Bee was waiting for, he did not hesitate anymore. Killer BEE jumped out of the saddle and stung GOG as he blasted by leaving GOG still reeling from the Blow he had been delivered by the Gust of Wind as if delivered by the fist of Ali.

It took the pack a while to gather back together having just been splintered by GOG and Killer Bee. They then completed that section of road finding themselves at the Strawberry Patch. From there GOG directed the group onto Holland Chapel with the next expected turn from there to be towards Martha’s Chapel. It was on Holland Chapel (Waffle Run) that KIKI demonstrated her riding skills. She lit up the pace as she took the pull position. She demonstrated power as she pushed the pace into the 20 - 23 mph range still into the head wind. This splintered the group with Mother Theresa, Vicki, and Heather working to hold on and doing so until just before the end of “Waffle Run” (Holland Chapel).

At the next intersection GOG told the group to go ahead and ride as hard as they want to the top of Martha’s Chapel were everyone will regroup. GOG remained at the intersection resting and hydrating and visiting briefly with Vicki and Heather who were also joined by Mother Theresa. Those four rode together at a more relaxed pace having just done all they could to hold onto KIKI’s earlier pull.

At the top of Martha’s Chapel all gathered and GOG asked who was planning to jump in with CSH. KIKI was the only one planning to do so. GOG then asked Killer Bee and Mr. Bridenbaugh if they would help guide the group back in on the path that would allow KIKI to jump in with CSH. They agreed, and all but GOG, Mother Theresa, Vicki, and Heather went with them.

The ride continued as everyone made their way back to the start finish point. As the riders were exiting the Cary Glenn Neighborhood they spotted KIKI tucked in with CSH has it was headed back out towards Lake Jordan. KIKI has the endurance and skill to easily ride with, and challenge the Thorns on any Saturday ride.

The route back for Mother Theresa, Vicki, Heather, and GOG put them on the back side of Preston with several hills to survive on that last mile or two.

The group was held together in the beginning by the solid job at the front thanks to Killer Bee.

The route produced 35 miles and the longest ride of the season for Vicki. Wahoo, well done Vicki.

Heat, Hills, Humidity, Head Winds

Saturday May 8th.

Assembled for the days ride included the following cyclists;

Kevin Smit – GOG (Glistening Older Gentleman) – Rode with the Stems

Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa

Steve Cope – Capn Carbon – riding his old school aluminum framed bike – rode with the Thorns

Phillip Burton – Rode with the Roses

Rob Robertson – sporting a brand new jersey. A Falstaff beer jersey to compete with the other beer jerseys and to show respect for the King of Generic Beers. – Rob rode with the Thorns until Jettisoned late in the ride by the group.

Jim Coughlin – new rider to the group – rode strong with the Stems

Ron Clanton – on the tandem with his wife – they rode with the Roses

Tracy Clanton – providing all the power for the tandem team

Sandy Parrish – first time with the group - riding with the Stems

Shea Beacham – rode with the Roses

Harlan Alan – back with the group after 2 or 3 years – rode strong with the Stems

Shawn Richardson – The Green Flash – on his road bike – pushed the pace all day with the Thorns.

Barb Hartsfield – first ride of the season with the group - rode with the Roses

Jay Brainard – Led the Roses on a great ride.

Tom Gaither – First time with the group – rode with the Roses.

Gina Hicks – Rode with the Roses

Michelle Duff – Rode with the Roses

June Bennett – first time with the group – rode with the Stems

David Bridenbaugh – Mr. Bridenbaugh – rode with the Thorns until he was jettisoned late in the ride.

Tom Plant – back with the group and looking forward to more of the weekend rides – rode strong with the Stems – did a great deal of the work at the front of the pace line. His pedaling style is slow and powerful just like the power stroke of a Cummings diesel engine. From this day on Tom will be known as POWER STROKER.

Laura Spell – rode very strong with the stems – led some of the draft line efforts.

Joe Pittman – Immortal Man – rode with the Thorns

Jessica Holland – first time with the group – rode hard with the Stems.

Lee Duncan – ON A BRAND NEW CARBON Cervelo. Lee had been riding old school steel with fat tires and was able to abuse the Thorns regularly. He is now more deadly than ever. As he passes and explodes out past the front of a pace line the pressure generated when he cracks the sound barrier almost nocks other cyclists off their bikes. From this day forward Lee will be known as SONIC BOOM.

Angie Magdelena – rode with the Stems

Doug Augustine – Rumble Strip – had one of his longest rides of the season with the stems

Shiela Augustine – first ride with the group this season - rode with the Roses

Beth Gonzalez – first ride with the group this season – rose with the Roses.

A great turn out for the days ride. The best behaved ride group of the season as all riders fell into one of the three groups and worked together to stay together in those groups.

GOG provided a brief introduction to the first time riders. He also provided guidance to the Thorns and the stems as to where the days ride would take them. Jay informed the Roses that she had a relatively flat 30 mile route with an expected average speed of around 14 mph.

The pack was let out of the parking lot by the Green Flash. GOG paused in the parking lot to ensure all riders were good to go. Just as he was prepping to push forward Gina Hicks informed him that her chain had come off the front chain rings. GOG quickly assisted her in getting the chain back on and the two headed out of the parking lot to catch the others before they reached the Preston neighborhood.

The line of cyclists was impressive to view as they stretched out on the quite neighborhood roads. The Thorns and Stems held together as they swept thru the round-about and then turned towards High House and the roads that would take them into and then beyond Apex. GOG expected the first separation of the Thorns and Stems to take place at the top of the first major climb. The Thorns cannot resist attacking each other on a hill. In anticipation GOG slid slowly backwards in the draft line to warn the newer riders that that first attack of the day was about to take place. “You can participate, or do as I do and just wave goodbye to the Thorns” he was heard advising the others. Sure enough just before the bottom of the hill, on Jenks Carpenter Road, the Thorns were seen all jumping out of their saddles in an attempt to add rpms and associated speed to enhance the momentum already gained by them from the previous down hill run. The Gap between the THORNS and Stems was instantaneous as the Thorns Attacked and the Stems each planned their own response to the pressure being applied by gravity as the hill rose in front of them.

The Thorns paused long enough at the top to seek confirmation from GOG that the next turn would be left onto Holt and then to Old Salem, and then onto the race track of Tingen. We will call that stretch of road on Tingen as TINGEN SALT FLATs. Just like the Bonneville Salt Flats were speed enthusiasts go to see how fast they can go on a long straight away, and then have hills in the distance to help slow down a run away engine. http://www.saltflats.com

The Thorns did not hesitate to jump onto Holt and readied themselves for the run down Tingen. The Stems trickled on in to the top of the previous climb and allowed all others to gather there prior to making the left turn onto Holt. The Stems stayed in a nice tight pack as Tom Plant (Power Stroker) pulled from the front and did so with such smooth strokes that he did not shatter the gaps between each of those in tow. The pack was all together as they prepared to roll into apex. At the light just out side Apex Kevin (GOG) used the opportunity to remind all the cyclists that Apex has no problem writing tickets to bicyclists who do not stop at all stop signs, or who ride more than two abreast. The bunch of Stems did not have a specific leader as they each delicately maneuvered thru the town of Apex. At the turn onto Tingen SALT FLATS the Stems formed a very well organized draft line in anticipation of the speeds about to be attempted on that section of road. IT was POWER STROKER who once again set up the draft line as he slowly accelerated with all others tightly aligned behind him. He pulled everyone along slowly building from a near dead stop to speeds of 23 mph. Then pulling out wide Power Stroker handed the pull position off to Harlan Alan who did a marvelous job of gradually taking the pace up to and just beyond 25 mph. He held that pull position into the curve and the start of the rolling hills that signal the end of TINGEN SALT FLATS and the beginning of Woods Creek Road. It was there that Laura Spell took the pull position and maintained it beautifully until she was over taken by Kevin (GOG) who was gaining speed on the down hills as a result of his larger MASS. The hills on Woods Creek splintered the Stems who finished that section of road only to find two groups waiting at the intersection of Woods Creek and Friendship. The Thorns were there waiting as was the cycling group The Slow Spokes. The Slow Spokes were regrouping and resting. The Thorns were there just to make sure they knew the next set of turns that GOG had planned for the days ride.

“OK, what direction do we turn to get to Tody Goodwin” asked Capn Carbon. “Go right – the opposite that you did last Saturday when you rode by yourself” GOG informed Capn. “How far do we go before the turn onto Tody” Capn then asked. “I think about a mile and a half” replied GOG. “Its more like 5 miles to the turn onto Tody Godwin “ Immortal man chimed in to clarify. “Yea that sounds more like it” agreed GOG. “ Then the discussion turned to describe land marks to help Capn Carbon find the turn onto Tody Goodwin.

After that brief exchange both groups agreed to meet back up at the gas station on highway 64. The Thorns leapt into action as the Stems continued to rest and hydrate. They then gathered themselves up and coasted thru the left hand turn onto Friendship were they slowly fell into another draft line with POWER STROKER again at the front of the line. Just as the pace line got into rhythm they were briefly absorbed by the Slow Spokes who had left the last intersection only moments later. The pace line was now Slow Spokes and Stems. This remained until the next intersection. “OK, All Thorns and Roses we turn right here, Follow me” GOG instructed in his attempt to make sure each rider knew what group they were following. GOG was now at the front of the pace line and worked hard to maintain that spot, and making sure all made it to the next designated turn onto Tody Gooodwin. Just before the turn onto Tody Goodwin the pace line nearly clipped a large snake that was attempting to cross the road. “SNAKE” GOG shouted as he was past it before he could react. The Snake was Black and Gold/Yellow. Not sure what kind it was but GOG swears he heard it HISSSS “I will KISSSS the Sixth rider”. GOG quickly glanced in his mirror and counted helmets. The Sixth one in line was Laura Spell. GOG then watched her peddling strokes to see if the Snake indeed attempted to KISSS the Sixth in the pace line. To Laura’s quick thinking, or just plain luck her right foot was at the top of the peddling stroke as she rushed past the awaiting Snake.

GOG then directed the pack into the left turn and to a shady spot to regroup for the stems, once they were all on Tody Goodwin. A short rest in the shade of an old oak tree allowed the group to discuss the LARGE SNAKE that almost took out everyone, and to hydrate. What laid ahead of the pack included, more rolling hills, head wind, heat, humidity, rough pavement, and searing sunshine. All continued to straddle their bikes as they contemplated those next 5 to 7 miles till the rest stop at 64.

Then GOG slowly rolled away from the group signaling the rest was over, let’s get this done. Jim Coughlin was the first to roll past GOG and continued to hold the Pull position the entire length of Tody Goodwin. That stretch of road was uneventful as each rider focused on responding to the hills, head winds, and rough road that added a degree of difficulty at that point in the day’s ride.

The road ended as it meets Beaver Dam Road in a T intersection. Doug Augustine (Rumble Strip) then led the pace line from the T Intersection to the gas station rest stop at Highway 64, were they meet up with the THORNS and several other biking groups.

The Thorns were well rested and itching to head on out. Capn Carbon and GOG discussed several route options for the Thorns. They wanted at least 10 extra miles from the days planed route. Capn made a command decision that the Thorns would continue on Farrington all the way past the Lystra Gas Station and turn onto Stage coach, then 751, and then Okelly, and then loop back into Cary on Carpenter Fires Station. LOTS OF HILLS to challenge the Thorns. At that point Rob Robertson, Immortal Man, and Mr. Bridenbaugh made it known that they would turn at Holland Chapel and stay with the day’s planned route, however they would continue to ride with the Thorns until that point. GOG was at that point starting to spiral down into one of his famous BONKS. He was getting light headed and had to sit down in the shade to keep from passing out. He had already procured extra cold water from the gas station and was now trying to consume as much as he could in between dizzy spells. The rest of the Stems were either visiting the porta Potty, or inline in the store buying water and items to assist in any form of energy boost.

GOG slowly recovered and was able to say goodbye to the Thorns as they scrambled to jump into the pace line of CSH as it had just arrived at the stop light. When riding with the Thorns it is always advisable to be prepared to respond without warning to an attack, the turning of a green light, the sudden arrival of pace line to jump in with, and always expect the pace to quicken if there is a lone rider spotted in the distance.

The Stems were now gathering for their last 15 – 20 miles back to the start finish. “I am going to flatten out the last several miles, I do not have more hills in me” announced GOG. “We vote for that as well” was the response from the Stems. GOG then added , “Ok, we will turn at Holland Chapel, go by the strawberry patch, turn onto Green Hope High road, and then walk over the rail road tracks at the high school” Laura asked “Have you ever gotten in trouble crossing the tracks?”. GOG replied “Nope, not yet”.

Across Highway 64 and down the road on Farrington the Stems rode in single file. GOG was in the Pull position in an attempt to announce his full recovery for the earlier BONK. In reality the Pull Position affords GOG the ability to control the speed so that he is not dropped by the pack. It was Jim again who charged past GOG on the hill just before the turn onto Holland Chapel. GOG had to gather up strength to shout up ahead to Jim to make the next right turn. All the Stems swung safely onto Holland Chapel slowing long enough to regroup. It is almost without fail that this section of road Known as “Waffle Run” generates either a fast pace, or a more relaxed pace with lots of chatter between the rider. On this ride “Waffle Run” produced a more relaxed pace with lots of Chatter.

How did Holland Chapel get the knick name “Waffle Run”? Several years ago, on that road, the pack was pulled along at neck breaking speeds by Doug Augustine (Rumble Strip). There was no CHIT CHAT as everyone was using all oxygen to survive the blistering pace demanded by Doug. Upon completion of that section of road GOG asked Doug “What possessed you to ride that so hard”? Doug replied “Sheila made me giant Waffles for breakfast and I eat two”. Doug’s breakfast of Giant waffles provide the energy to push the pace the entire length of that road, and from that day on it is known as “WAFFLE RUN”.

The group navigated a slow right hand turn, a lane change, and slow left hand turn as they were now gliding past the strawberry patch. Lots of folks were there picking their own strawberry’s.

The Stems fell in line to allow for the extra traffic in that area and to draft off of each other. Mother Theresa was beginning to fall off the back of the pace line as the group made their way to the end of Lewter Shop road. At that point GOG was asking Laura to share more information regarding her concern about the Rail Road Tracks at Green Hope High School. “Well I have heard of folks getting tickets, and the Inside Out group no longer cross them because of that. Now they go thru the Sears Farm Neighborhood.” she informed GOG. “COOL, YOU are now the ride leader, Take the pack in that way, I am going to fall back and make sure Mother Theresa does not ride alone” GOG said as he fell back towards the end of the draft line. The Stems were now in the capable hands of Laura Spell as she and the rest of the pack easily gapped GOG.

The hills in the Sears Farm Neighborhood came as a disappointment to all the riders after GOG had promised a flat finish to the days ride. On the fast run down High House GOG hit 31 mph. He knew of a large pot hole that would force him up against the curb, or into the middle of the lane. He was looking to position himself into the middle of the lane and was signaling to the trailing car that he wanted over. The car was not responding to his request. GOG looked closely in his mirror to see if the driver even noticed him. In close inspection GOG could see a lady on her cell phone engaged in a very animated conversation. Clearly she was not paying attention to her driving or anything beyond the point she was attempting to make on the cell phone. GOG had to make a quick last minute adjustment to dodge the pot hole. As the car skirted by GOG yelled out “GET OFF THE PHONE”. High House is a challenging road with lots of traffic in both directions that require constant situational awareness by the cyclists. This is most needed when making the left hand turn across all lanes into the parking lot below Brueggers.

Upon completion of the ride those that could afford some time all meet at Brueggers/caribou for food and beverage and chit chat. It was there that Rob Robertson shared the story of how he and David Bridenbaugh (Mr. Bridenbaugh) were Jettisoned by the Thorns only to limp home together with Mr. Bridenbaugh complaining about being wore out as he pulled Rob, and Immortal Man along at over 20 mph into the finish.

The Stems completed 43miles at 16.4 mph

The Roses completed 32 miles at 14.5

The Thorns completed 52 miles at 18.9 mph.

Here is the recap by Capn Carbon regarding the Thorns ride

OK… Here are the key points to remember about last Saturday’s Thorn’s ride from my perspective:

• Lee has purchased and is now riding an illegal bike as it weighs well below anything that a scale can measure

• Rob rode like a man possessed and rode with the breakaway Thorns all the way until Toddy Goodsomething road

• The Green Flash proved once again that he has Zero patience as he did not wait for ANYBODY including me after the lights coming through Apex

• Mr. Bridenbaugh had a very bad water management day and basically bonked by the time he hit the Wilsonville gas station. However, according to Rob, he still motored at close to 19 mph all the way in after complaining about being toasted!

• Immortal Man was rock solid and hammered like a mad man. He must be riding extra miles during the week!

• Lee rode like he was possessed. Must be the “new bike syndrome/high” that he is riding on. Just like the rest of us, he will certainly slow down once he gets the credit card bill for his new purchase!

• Green Flash, Lee, and Capn rode 52 miles at just a hair under 19 mph average. Would have been much faster except they were slowed early on by the GOG

Heat, Hills, Head winds, Humidity

Saturday May 8th.

Assembled for the days ride included the following cyclists; - Rode with the Stems

Kevin Smit – GOG (Glistening Older Gentleman) – Rode with the Stems

Theresa Smit – Mother Theresa

Steve Cope – Capn Carbon – riding his old school aluminum framed bike – rode with the Thorns

Phillip Burton – Rode with the Roses

Rob Robertson – sporting a brand new jersey. A Falstaff beer jersey to compete with the other beer jerseys and to show respect for the King of Generic Beers. – Rob rode with the Thorns until Jettisoned late in the ride by the group.

Jim Coughlin – new rider to the group – rode strong with the Stems

Ron Clanton – on the tandem with his wife – they rode with the Roses

Tracy Clanton – providing all the power for the tandem team

Sandy Parrish – first time with the group - riding with the Stems

Shea Beacham – rode with the Roses

Harlan Alan – back with the group after 2 or 3 years – rode strong with the Stems

Shawn Richardson – The Green Flash – on his road bike – pushed to pace all day with the Thorns.

Barb Hartsfield – first ride of the season with the group - rode with the Roses

Jay Brainard – Led the Roses on a great ride.

Tom Gaither – First time with the group – rode with the Roses.

Gina Hicks – Rode with the Roses

Michelle Duff – Rode with the Roses

June Bennett – first time with the group – rode with the Stems

David Bridenbaugh – Mr. Bridenbaugh – rode with the Thorns until he was jettisoned late in the ride.

Tom Plant – back with the group and looking forward to more of the weekend rides – rode strong with the Stems – did a great deal of the work at the front of the pace line. His pedaling style is slow and powerful just like the power stroke of a Cummings diesel engine. From this day on Tom will be known as POWER STROKER.

Laura Spell – rode very strong with the stems – led some of the draft line efforts.

Joe Pittman – Immortal Man – rode with the Thorns

Jessica Holland – first time with the group – rode hard with the Stems.

Lee Duncan – ON A BRAND NEW CARBON Cervelo. Lee had been riding old school steel with fat tires and was able to abuse the Thorns regularly. He is now more deadly than ever. As he passes and explodes out past the front of a pace line the pressure generated when he cracks the sound barrier almost nocks other cyclists off their bikes. From this day forward Lee will be known as SONIC BOOM.

Angie Magdelena – rode with the Stems

Doug Augustine – Rumble Strip – had one of his longest rides of the season with the stems

Shiela Augustine – first ride with the group this season - rode with the Roses

Beth Gonzalez – first ride with the group this season – rose with the Roses.

A great turn out for the days ride. The best behaved ride group of the season as all riders fell into one of the three groups and worked together to stay together in those groups.

GOG provided a brief introduction to the first time riders. He also provided guidance to the Thorns and the stems as to where the days ride would take them. Jay informed the Roses that she had a relatively flat 30 mile route with an expected average speed of around 14 mph.

The pack was let out of the parking lot by the Green Flash. GOG paused in the parking lot to ensure all riders were good to go. Just as he was prepping to push forward Gina Hicks informed him that her chain had come off the front chain rings. GOG quickly assisted her in getting the chain back on and the two headed out of the parking lot to catch the others before they reached the Preston neighborhood.

The line of cyclists was impressive to view as they stretched out on the quite neighborhood roads. The Thorns and Stems held together as they swept thru the round-about and then turned towards High House and the roads that would take them into and then beyond Apex. GOG expected the first separation of the Thorns and Stems to take place at the top of the first major climb. The Thorns cannot resist attacking each other on a hill. In anticipation GOG slide slowly backwards in the draft line to warn the newer riders that that first attack of the day was about to take place. “You can participate, or do as I do and just wave goodbye to the Thorns” he was heard advising the others. Sure enough just before the bottom of the hill, on Jenks Carpenter Road, the Thorns were seen all jumping out of their saddles in an attempt to add rpms and associated speed to enhance the momentum already gained by them from the previous down hill run. The Gap was instantaneous as the Stems each planned their own response to the pressure being applied by gravity as the hill rose in front of them.

The Thorns paused long enough at the top to seek confirmation from GOG that the next turn would be left onto Holt and then to Old Salem, and then onto the race track of Tingen. We will call that stretch of road on Tingen as TINGEN SALT FLATs. Just like the Bonneville Salt Flats were speed enthusiasts go to see how fast they can go on a long straight away, and then have hills in the distance to help slow down a run away engine. http://www.saltflats.com/

The Thorns did not hesitate to jump onto Holt and ready themselves for the run down Tingen. The Stems trickled in to the top of the previous climb and allowed all others to gather there prior to making the left turn onto Holt. The Stems stayed in a nice tight pack as Tom Plant (Power Stroker) pulled from the front and did so with such smooth strokes that he did not shatter the gaps between each of those in tow. The pack was all together as they prepared to roll into apex. At the light Kevin (GOG) used the opportunity to remind all the cyclists that Apex has no problem writing tickets to bicyclists who do not stop at all stop signs, or who ride more than two abreast. The bunch of Stems did not have a specific leader as they each delicately maneuvered thru the town of Apex. At the turn onto Tingen SALT FLATS the Stems formed a very well organized draft line in anticipation of the speeds about to be attempted on that section of road. IT was POWER STROKER who once again set up the draft line as he slowly accelerated with all others tightly aligned behind him. He pulled everyone along slowly building from a near dead stop to speeds of 23 mph. Then pulling out wide Power Stroker handed the pull position off to Harlan Alan who did a marvelous job of gradually taking the pace up to and just beyond 25 mph. He held that pull position into the curve and start of the rolling hills that signal the end of TINGEN SALT FLATS and the beginning of Woods Creek Road. It was there that Laura Spell to the pull position and maintained it beautifully until she was over taken by Kevin (GOG) who was gaining speed on the down hills as a result of his larger MASS. The hills on Woods Creek splintered the Stems who finished that section of road only to find two groups waiting at the intersection of Woods Creek and Friendship. The Thorns were there waiting as was the cycling group The Slow Spokes. The Slow Spokes were regrouping and resting. The Thorns were there just to make sure they knew the next set of turns that GOG had planned for the days ride.

“OK, what direction do we turn to get to Tody Goodwin” asked Capn Carbon. “Go right – the opposite that you did last Saturday when you rode by yourself” GOG informed Capn. “How far do we go before the turn onto Tody” Capn then asked. “I think about a mile and a half” replied GOG. “Its more like 5 miles to the turn onto Tody Godwin “ Immortal man chimed in to clarify. “Yea that sound more like it” agreed GOG. “ Then the discussion turned to describe land marks to help Capn Carbon find the turn onto Tody Goodwin.

After that brief exchange both groups agreed to meet back up at the gas station on highway 64. The Thorns leapt into action as the Stems continued to rest and hydrate. They then gathered themselves up and coasted thru the left hand turn onto Friendship were they slowly fell into another draft line with POWER STROKER again at the front of the line. Just as the pace line got into rhythm they were briefly absorbed by the Slow Spokes who had left the last intersection only moments later. The pace line was now Slow Spokes and Stems. This remained until the next intersection. “OK, All Thorns and Roses we turn right here, Follow me” GOG instructed in his attempt to make sure each rider knew what group they were following. GOG was now at the front of the pace line and worked hard to maintain that spot as he worked to make sure all made it to the next designated turn onto Tody Gooodwin. Just before the turn the pace line nearly clipped a large snake that was attempting to cross the road. “SNAKE” GOG shouted as he was past it before he could react. The Snake was Black and Gold/Yellow. Not sure what kind it was but GOG swears he heard it HISSSS “I will KISSSS the Sixth rider”. GOG quickly glanced in his mirror and counted helmets. The Sixth one in line was Laura Spell. GOG then watched her peddling strokes to see if the Snake indeed attempted to KISSS the Sixth in the pace line. To Laura’s quick thinking, or just plain luck her right foot was at the top of the peddling stroke as she rushed past the awaiting Snake.

GOG then directed the pack into the left turn and a shady spot to regroup for the stems, once they were on Tody Goodwin. A short rest in the shade of an old oak tree allowed the group to discuss the LARGE SNAKE that almost took out everyone, and to hydrate. What laid ahead of the pack included, more rolling hills, head wind, heat, humidity, rough pavement, and searing sunshine. All continued to straddle their bikes as they contemplated those next 5 to 7 miles till the rest stop at 64.

Then GOG slowly rolled away from the group signaling the rest was over, let’s get this done. Jim Coughlin was the first to roll past GOG and continued to hold the Pull position the entire length of Tody Goodwin. That stretch of road was uneventful as each rider focused on responding to the hills, head winds, and rough road that added a degree of difficulty at that point in the day’s ride.

The road ended as it meets Beaver Dam Road in a T intersection. Doug Augustine (Rumble Strip) then led the pace line from the T Intersection to the gas station rest stop at Highway 64, were they meet up with the THORNS and several other biking groups.

The Thorns were well rested and itching to head on out. Capn Carbon and GOG discussed several route options for the Thorns. They wanted at least 10 extra miles from the days planed route. Capn made a command decision that the Thorns would continue on Farrington all the way past the Lystra Gas Station and turn onto Stage coach, then 751, and then Okelly, and then loop back into Cary on Carpenter Fires Station. LOTS OF HILLS to challenge the Thorns. At that point Rob Robertson Immortal Man, and Mr. Bridenbaugh made it known that they would turn at Holland Chapel and stay with the day’s planned route, however they would continue to ride with the Thorns until that point. GOG was at that point starting to spiral down into one of his famous BONKS. He was getting light headed and had to sit down in the shade to keep from passing out. He had already procured extra cold water from the gas station and was now trying to consume as much as he could in between dizzy spells. The rest of the Stems were either visiting the porta Potty, or inline in the store buying water and items to assist in any form of energy boost.

GOG slowly recovered and was able to say goodbye to the Thorns as they scrambled to jump into the pace line of CSH as it had just arrived at the stop light. When riding with the Thorns it is always advisable to be prepared to respond without warning to an attack, the turning of a green light, the sudden arrival of pace line to jump in with, and always expect the pace to quicken if there is a lone rider spotted in the distance.

The Stems were now gathering for their last 15 – 20 miles back to the start finish. “I am going to flatten out the last several miles, I do not have more hills in me” announced GOG. “We vote for that as well” was the response from the Stems. GOG then added , “Ok, we will turn at Holland Chapel, go by the strawberry patch, turn onto Green Hope High road, and then walk over the rail road tracks at the high school” Laura asked “Have you ever gotten in trouble crossing the tracks?”. GOG replied “Nope, not yet”.

Across Highway 64 and down the road on Farrington the Stems rode in single file. GOG was in the Pull position in an attempt to announce his full recovery for the earlier BONK. In reality the Pull Position affords GOG the ability to control the speed so that he is not dropped by the pack. It was Jim again who charged past GOG on the hill just before the turn onto Holland Chapel. GOG had to gather up strength to shout up ahead to Jim to make the next right turn. All the Stems swung safely onto Holland Chapel slowing long enough to regroup. It is almost without fail that this section of road Known as “Waffle Run” generates either a fast pace, or a more relaxed pace with lots of chatter between the rider. On this ride “Waffle Run” produced a more relaxed pace with lots of Chatter.

How did Holland Chapel get the knick name “Waffle Run”? Several years ago, on that road, the pack was pulled along at neck breaking speeds by Doug Augustine (Rumble Strip). There was no CHIT CHAT as everyone was using all oxygen to survive the blistering pace demanded by Doug. Upon completion of that section of road GOG asked Doug “What possessed you to ride that so hard”? Doug replied “Sheila made me giant Waffles for breakfast and I eat two”. Doug’s breakfast of Giant waffles provide the energy to push the pace the entire length of that road, and from that day on it is known as “WAFFLE RUN”.

The group navigated a slow right hand turn a lane change and slow left hand turn as they were now gliding past the strawberry patch. Lots of folks were there picking their own strawberry’s.

The Stems fell in line to allow for the extra traffic in that area and to draft off of each other. Mother Theresa was beginning to fall off the back of the pace line as the group made their way to the end of Lewter Shop road. At that point GOG was asking Laura to share more information regarding her concern about the Rail Road Tracks at Green Hope High School. “Well I have heard of folks getting tickets, and the Inside Out group no longer cross them because of that. Now they go thru the Sears Farm Neighborhood.” she informed GOG. “COOL, YOU are now the ride leader, Take the pack in that way, I am going to fall back and make sure Mother Theresa does not ride alone” GOG said as he fell back towards the end of the draft line. The Stems were now in the capable hands of Laura Spell as she and the rest of the pack easily gapped GOG.

The hills in the Sears Farm Neighborhood came as a disappointment to all the riders after GOG had promised a flat finish to the days ride. On the fast run down High House GOG hit 31 mph. He knew of a large pot hole that would force him up against the curb, or into the middle of the lane. He was looking to position himself into the middle of the lane and was signaling to the trailing car that he wanted over. The car was not responding to his request. GOG looked closely in his mirror to see if the driver even noticed him. In close inspection GOG could see a lady on her cell phone engaged in a very animated conversation. Clearly she was not paying attention to her driving or anything beyond the point she was attempting to make on the cell phone. GOG had to make a quick last minute adjustment to dodge the pot hole. As the car skirted by GOG yelled out “GET OFF THE PHONE”. High House is a challenging road with lots of traffic in both directions that require constant situational awareness by the cyclists. This is most needed to make the left hand turn across all lanes into the parking lot below Brueggers.

Up completion of the ride those that could afford some time all meet at Brueggers/caribou for food and beverage and chit chat. It was there that Rob Robertson shared the story of how he and David Bridenbaugh (Mr. Bridenbaugh) were Jettisoned by the Thorns only to limp home together with Mr. Bridenbaugh complaining about being wore out as he pulled Rob along at over 20 mph into the finish.

The Stems completed 43miles at 16.4 mph

The Roses completed 32 miles at 14.5

The Thorns completed 52 miles at 18.9 mph.

Here is the recap by Capn Carbon regarding the Thorns ride

OK… Here are the key points to remember about last Saturday’s Thorn’s ride from my perspective:

· Lee has purchased and is now riding an illegal bike as it weighs well below anything that a scale can measure

· Rob rode like a man possessed and rode with the breakaway Thorns all the way until Toddy Goodsomething road

· The Green Flash proved once again that he has Zero patience as he did not wait for ANYBODY including me after the lights coming through Apex

· Mr. Bridenbaugh had a very bad water management day and basically bonked by the time he hit the Wilsonville gas station. However, according to Rob, he still motored at close to 19 mph all the way in after complaining about being toasted!

· Immortal Man was rock solid and hammered like a mad man. He must be riding extra miles during the week!

· Lee rode like he was possessed. Must be the “new bike syndrome/high” that he is riding on. Just like the rest of us, he will certainly slow down once he gets the credit card bill for his new purchase!

· Green Flash, Lee, and Capn rode 52 miles at just a hair under 19 mph average. Would have been much faster except they were slowed early on by the GOG