April 4th and 5th rides

April 4th.
Spring Fling
Organized ride to support MS 150.

Those in attendance:
Jen Serino – “Slow Jen”, “Slow Jen Fizz”, “Fizzy”
Jill Fitzgibbons
Jeffery Roussel – “Down Hill Racer”
Josh Carter – “Moving Violation”
John Majickes
Theresa Smit
Kevin Smit – “GOG”

It was a warm sunny and Windy Day.
The ride organizers did a great job providing breakfast items, family activities, music, Ham Operators to monitor the course, Police directing traffic at busy intersections, 3 rest stops, course marshals on bikes, lunch, two well marked courses, and T-shirts all for $35 entry fee.

The “Thorns and Roses” started off together working their way thru the busy hilly streets of Durham. They were able to navigate the streets easily due to the great support of the local police who directed the cyclists thru all the intersections with priority status to the cyclists.
The group elected to ride the 50 mile route and expected to average close to 15 mph for the days ride.

Within the first 7 miles “Down Hill Racer”, and “Moving Violation” broke from the pack to play a more aggressive roll with the faster riders up front. “Slow Jen Fizz” was with a friend and elected to ride at their own pace. The remaining “Thorns and Roses” stayed true to the objective and worked to help share the pace setting. The wind was in their face during the first half of the ride and continued to gain strength as they worked to close in on the second rest stop.

The group worked well together as a team as the route had them traveling some familiar roads. All along High House and onto Green Level the pack stayed tight. They also showed signs of restraint when other riders would zoom past only to later be swallowed up by the pace line formed by the “Thorns and Roses”. On one occasion 4 cyclists raced past on Green Level just prior to the climb up to White Oak.
“OK Jill, Keep your rpms up, drop your heels, and pull slightly on your handle bars as we start to climb” was the guidance provided by “GOG”. Within the first few feet of the climb Jill had not just past the racers she accelerated well beyond them never to be caught on the climb from behind. WELL DONE.

Once at the second rest stop on White Oak the group took a short bio break, filled water bottles, and prepared to head back out when Jill noticed her rear tire was flat. Clearly the Power of her last climb was more than the tube could take. A short pause to replace the tube and the pack was back on the road towards Luter Shop and the loop back towards the finish.

In that short time the wind had decided to switch and was now coming from the opposite direction. That put the wind between the riders and the finish line. In addition the wind had gained strength.
John, Jill, Theresa, and Kevin were all still together as they rolled into the last rest stop of the day. This stop also signaled the last 10 miles of the route. John had a time constraint and elected to press on solo. The stop was brief as the others only needed to refill water bottles.

As the remaining three headed towards the finish line the wind and hills increased in intensity and duration. With about 5 miles to go they saw John alongside the road replacing his rear tube. He directed everyone to keep on going as he had everything under control.

Kevin, Jill, and Theresa did their very best trying to survive the last 3 hills into the finish. This did splinter the group slightly with each rolling into the finish one after the other.
Kevin was the first of them to reach the car only to find “Down Hill Racer”, and “Moving Violation” full rested, feed, and anxiously awaiting the others.



Those two also had written a note on a napkin and were planning on leaving it on Kevin’s Car. The note is attached as an image in this write-up.






Kevin also learned that the two had attacked the lead early on and on several occasions had established a long line of cyclists drafting them as they pushed at an average of 17 mph against the strong head winds. A great ride for those two.

Jill was the next into the parking lot and received High Fives from all those gathered around Kevin’s car.
She had ridden a solid ride attacked many hills, and ended the day with her longest ride of the season so far. WAHOO.
Theresa was the last of the group to glide into the finish. She had accomplished her objective of 50 miles at an average speed of 15 mph. This “Rose” is getting “Thorny”.

Sunday April 5th.
NO Cope, more riders.

Not in attendance
Steve Cope – “Chiwawa”, “The Gnat”, “Angry Chipmunk”, “Capn Carbon”

Those in attendance
Riding with the “Thorns”
Jeffery Roussel – “Down Hill Racer”
Tim Travitz – “Slow Tim” – did such an enormous pull now has a section of road named for him.
Todd Spain – “TriTodd” – used the ride as a warm-up for his real ride of the day that took him to Sanford.
Jerry Dotson – “Coach”
Dashon – friend of “Coach”, first time with the group, another Triassholete.
Carolyn – Joined in just outside Apex to ride with “TriTodd”
Mike Prentice – second time with the group and one of “TriTodds” Triassholetes
Kevin Smit – “GOG”

Those riding with the “Roses”
Jae Brainard
Carrie Zelna – second time with the group, first time on her new bike, and could be a “thorn” in the making.
Don Zelna – second time with the group (riding with the “Roses” but more like a “Thorn”)
Julie – one of “TriTodds” Triassholetes – a potential “Thorn”
Sara – first time with the group, and one of “TriTodds” triassholetes – another potential “Thorn”
Theresa Smit – a “Rose” turning “Thorny”.


Kevin and Theresa were sitting in Bruggers enjoying their coffee and bagel when their attention was diverted to a lone figure, the size and shape of a very skinny rag tag Scare Crow, as it was tapping on the window from the outside. There in the window looking in with a SHIT EATING GRIN was “Coach” Dotson. “Coach” was one of the veteran riders with the group who had been missing in action for almost an entire season. He has provided many interesting stories during the rides of yester year.
Too bad Steve Cope was not here to enjoy “Coaches” hard charging riding style.
“Coach” had no problem joining Kevin and Theresa at the table to pick up where they left off last time he had ridden with the group. The Banter began immediately and never stopped. Slowly others began to arrive, as the parking lot was now the staging ground for several riders and their bikes.

From the group that was assembled there could have been 3 groups rather than just the “Thorns and Roses”. The third group could ride harder and longer than the “Roses” but be stretched potentially too much to hang completely with the “Thorns”. This group could be formed on some of the next rides and be known as the “Stems”. They could potentially go out with the “Thorns” and then let the “Thorns” push on ahead at a greater speed. Just need to make sure there would be a ride leader in the group who would work to ensure all were safe and not left stranded, and would be able to guide the group through the remaining miles to the end. Most likely that person would be “GOG” since he is stretched most of the time to hang with the real “Thorns”.

Introductions were made due to the large number of new or recently new riders to the group. Theresa took a group picture and emailed it from her phone to Steve Cope. This was to drive home the point that more folks show up when the know Cope won’t be on the ride.

Picture of the group.

The “Thons” left before the “Roses” had finished getting ready. This fact sets the stage for the type of ride that was too unfold that day. Kevin had considered a moderately paced 35 mile ride due to the 50 miler he and others did the day before. Somehow Kevin knew that plan had to be scrapped for a more aggressive route, pace, and distance.

The pace was already 17 mph as the “Thorns” wound thru the Preston neighborhood, turning left onto Carpenter Upchurch, and then diving back into the Cary neighborhood of White Oak Park and the corner of Holt and Jenks Carpenter. The first attack took place as usual on the climb up to Holt. The attack started with “Down Hill Racer” and ended with “Coach” and Dashon walking away from everyone else.
The pack was then direct left onto Holt and towards Apex central. The pack danced their way down old US 1 working to avoid its many potholes.
During that time frame “TriTodd” was seen making calls and visiting with his many TriAssholetes, one of which he was directing to meet us as we headed out of Apex on Hunter.

Once thru the potholes the pack was directed to make the right onto Hunter with “TriTodd” and Kevin leading the way. Kevin was already feeling the drained sensation in his legs as he had not yet recovered from Saturdays ride, let alone the hard ride he did on that previous Wednesday’s Mello Vello ride. This was looking like one of those rides that Kevin is famous for as he Bonks at or near the half way point. Too much wine Saturday night and not enough water to replenish from Saturday’s ride were also working against “GOG”.

The pace down Holt was brisk with “TriTodd” and “GOG” leading until the fast downhill prior to Highway 55. It was there that “Down Hill Racer” worked to live up to his name. He shot past the entire draft line to establish his dominance of any and all downhill sections. Thru the light at 55 and on into the hills of Holt where it changes names to Olive Chapel Road the pack continued to apply the power. It was at the top of a hill just prior to Kelly road that the group was joined by Carolyn. She had no problem jumping into the pace line and establish herself as a solid strong rider. She and “TriTodd” remained at or near the front of the pack from that point on.

As the hills increased in level of effort it was Dashon, “Coach” and “Slow Tim” who attacked the pack with “TirTodd”, Carolyn close behind. “GOG” and Mike, and “Down Hill Racer” were left to figure out how they could find any more resources to respond the increased speeds and multiple attacks.

A pause to find out directions allowed “GOG” to make contact with the lead group. “ What way What Way” was the anxious request from “Coach” and his friend. “right and immediate left, a Jig Jog onto Olive Chapel Extension” was the cry from “GOG” as he worked to get the information out between gasps of air. “Coach” laughed as he suggested to the group that a jig jog was Mid West speak for what they were instructed to do.
The group splintered immediately as “Coach”, his friend (his only friend) Dashon, and “Slow Todd” took off again. “TriTodd” and Carolyn were both responding to the attack and holding back just enough to ensure they could complete this ride and then do their ride on into Sanford. Remember “TriTodd” is only riding with the group as a warm-up and for the entertainment value. No one slowed at the next turn onto Tody Goodwin Road, they all assumed that was the direction to head and no one looked back to be directed any differently.

“GOG” was working hard not to lose any additional ground on the groups ahead of him as he stood with each climb, only to collapse back onto the seat near the crest of each hill.

The leading groups slowed and circled only long enough for Kevin to make it to the next possible turn onto Beaver Dam Road. Without any commands being delivered Kevin rolled thru the right turn onto Beaver Dam Road and pointed the group towards highway 64. Now in the Pull position Kevin worked to maintain a reasonable pace while also attempting to recover slightly from the previous hills and pace.
Kevin instructed the group to take a short break at the gas station in Wilsonville (corner of Highway 64 and Beaver Dam). Most remained on their bikes ready to launch into the next section. There was just enough time for one person to make a bio break while another purchased Gator Aid.

Kevin again took the pull position as he led the group left onto Highway 64 towards Lake Jordan and the rolling 5 mile stretch on the other side known as Big Woods. Kevin struggled to pull at 19 mph. He relinquished the rains to “TriTodd” who elected to be gentle on the group by maintaining the pace Kevin had established earlier. The pace allowed the pack to draft single file with all riders in tow.

Right turn onto Big Woods setup the always fast time trial like run down its length. Again “GOG” was in the Pull position even though he had not recovered from previous efforts. In his mirror he could see that all riders were riding comfortably behind him as he pushed the pace to 19 and then 21 mph. The hills on Big Woods roll beneath the riders wheels as regular as a set of waves roll under a surfer as they wait for the big one. Traveling down Big Woods in the direction chosen for the day put the larger set of hills at the end of the run. At one point “TriTodd” slid up next to Kevin and whispered in his ear “How about we ride up Jack Bennet”. Then just as quietly he slid back into place in the draft line. With about half of Big Woods now behind the pack Kevin was beginning to falter from the pace he had established. Coach’s friend pulled out of the pace line and rolled past Kevin. As he slid past he said “How about I give you a break”. Just as he pulled in front of Kevin “Coach’s” friend laid down the hammer. A gap was immediately generated forcing Kevin to jump on the peddles in an effort to pull the pace line across the gap. The pace was now 24 mph and climbing as the pack was also now climbing one of the larger/longer hills. Kevin was only able to hang on for 6 or 7 revolutions of the pedals before a gap began to appear. Kevin had to make a decision quickly to either jump the gap again or pull out of line in hopes that the next rider had a better chance to jump the gap to pull the pack back in contact with the lead rider. Kevin’s actions were too slow generating even a greater gap. In total defeat Kevin continued his drift back to the end of the pace line. There he saw “Coach” sitting comfortably riding as if to suggest he has yet been challenged on the ride. “Your friend said he wanted to give me a break, but what he really meant to say was that I was going too slow for him” Kevin shouted to “Coach”. “Coach” chuckled and then added insult to injury by informing Kevin and the rest of the draft line that his friend had just had leg surgery about 4 days ago. “Your Friend is a complete TRIASSHOLETE, unable to ride with others in a draft line” Kevin informed “Coach”. “TriTodd” announced that he clearly was not that type of TRIASSHOLETE since he is comfortable riding with the group. “NO, you are just a complete ASSHOLE” Kevin was quick to note. Everyone got a short chuckle from that observation. “Coach” then jumped out of line to chase down his friend. It was as if “Capn Carbon” was there. “Coach” exploded past the entire draft line and within several hundred yards was tucked in tight behind Dashon. His actions were the catalyst needed for others to also jump resulting in a splintering of the draft line into groups of 2 or 3 riders all attacking one another relentlessly till the end of Big Woods. Kevin could only watch in amazement as he was now facing the last two longest and steepest climbs of Big Woods.

As Kevin rolled over the last crest of Big Woods he could see the pack all standing at the intersection of Big Woods and Jack Bennet. Once Kevin was in sight “Coaches” friend turned right towards Lystra and Farrington as if to say let’s go, can’t wait on you any longer.

Kevin slowed to check the intersection and rolled on thru making the left turn to tackle the climb of Jack Bennet. “TriTodd” was truly an Asshole for suggesting it. Kevin checked in his mirror to see what was to unfold behind him. The pack was stalled for a moment expecting to see Kevin make a U turn and head back as if to say “Just Kidding”. He also noticed that “Coach” took off towards Farrington in an effort to catch his friend. The others slowly made their way towards Kevin as he was preparing for the long steady grind up Jack Bennet to 15/501. Just as the grade began “TriTodd” with both “Slow Tim” and Carloyn in tow easily rolled on past “GOG” who was now working to keep the rpms at or above 60 rpms.
At this point all he could do was drop his head to keep from seeing the challenge that lay ahead. With his head down Kevin’s attention was now focused on a lone spider that was building a web between the handlebars on Kevin’s bike. The speed at which Kevin was pushing his bike was so slow the spider had no problem navigating the span between the break hoods. Kevin also noticed from the corner of his eye the shadow of a butterfly that was racing past on its way towards the top of Jack Bennet.

Once at the top Kevin was able to navigate the U-Turn and join the others who were there long ahead of him and watching “TriTodd” fix a flat on his front tire. The spider had completed its web and the butterfly was seen resting on a tree branch as it also was observing the bike repair efforts.

Mike and “Down Hill Racer” were both throwing insults at Kevin for making them take that short 4 mile detour up Jack Bennet. Kevin just pointed at “TriTodd”.
The group had already ridden 32 miles at an average of 18 mph to this point in the ride. Kevin had originally planned on a nice 35 mile recovery ride. Mike commented that he was also hoping for that type of ride for the day.

After a very quick tire change “TriTodd” was back on the bike as if to suggest the rest for everyone was over. All responded by pushing off headed back down Jack Bennet. The coast downhill started off under control. Kevin in the lead momentarily as “TriTodd” again slid up next to him, put his arm over Kevin’s shoulder, and whispered in his ear “I won’t tell anyone else this but, Not only did I have a flat front tire on the entire climb, I kept the chain on the Big Ring for the whole climb”. More punishment from ASSHOLE Todd.

Just as the hill began to fall at a greater pace so did “Down Hill Racer”. Jeffery was in his biggest gear and spinning hard to max out the effect that gravity was happily supplying. This spurred a response from all but “GOG” who was still thinking about the spider, butterfly, and the last mental abuse just supplied by “TriTodd”. The group remained splintered until the flat section of road just before the turn onto Farrington. “Let’s take another quick stop at the gas station” was the directive from Kevin.
“TriTodd” bought a gallon of ice-cold water that everyone used to refill water bottles and then the pack was back onto Farrington headed towards Lake Jordan and roads leading home.

Kevin took the reins at the start only to relinquish quickly to “TriTodd” as he pushed past in the effort to push the pace back into the lower 20’s. “Lets make our next turn at Holland Chapel” was the request from “GOG”. “TriTodd” now in full control of the pace pulled the pack the entire distance to Martha Chaple. “Is this our turn”, “NO next one at Holland Chaple”, “OH, I know why you want to turn there”, “This is your section of road, let me pull out and give you the lead”, “No not yet, in fact if you want to stay in the pull position we can rename it TirTodd’s Crawl instead of Kevin’s Crawl” was the exchange that took place between “TriTodd” and “GOG” as they pushed on past Martha Chapel. No more words were spoken. Kevin stayed in the slipstream of “TriTodd” to measure and gauge when the best time to take his honored place at the pull position on the section of road nicknamed Kevin’s Crawl. “TriTodd” was still pulling the pack along at 19 mph, which is about the best Kevin can do on his own on the flats and was now mentally prepping for the climb up from Lake Jordan to Holland Chapel. The game he plays on this section is to slowly increase the pace from 16 or 17 upwards to 19 or 20 at the crest of the hill. Knowing he needed a long gradual run Kevin jumped on the pedals to help him pull past “TriTodd” and take the lead. Kevin concentrated on the job of pushing gradually harder responding to the pressure of the climb, and then turning up the volume gradually in that effort to increase speed. Today he dug deep knowing he was already wasted from the 50 miles on Saturday and the 40 miles completed so far this day. Kevin was pleased with the finished results of his run up the road. He maxed the pull out near the crest of the climb at 22 mph (briefly). “Nice Job for an OLD MAN” was the respond provided by “TriTodd” who not only sat easily on Kevin’s rear wheel, he also allowed Kevin to continue to THINK he dominates that section of road.

Kevin and “TriTodd” only needed to coast into the turn onto Holland Chapel to allow all to regroup.

Then as if possessed “SLOW TODD” took the pull position and did not falter the entire length of Holland Chapel. He pulled the pack along at a solid steady 21 mph. Holland Chapel is forever known now as “Travitz Tug-a-War”. Tim was having a stellar day on the bike riding as strong as ever.

The pack made the right turn onto 751 and the quick left onto Luter Shop at the Strawberry patch.
This is where “TriTodd” and Carolyn split company with the group and headed for their ride to Sanford. “Thanks for the warm-up ride”, Todd announced, as he and Carolyn stayed straight on 751.

The rest of the pack held up for a brief moment to let “Down Hill Racer” navigate the turns from Holland Chapel to Luter Shop. Just at that same moment a rider coming from Martha Chapel also made the turn onto Luter Shop. “COACH” cried Kevin in total surprise as the lone rider tried to zip past the group.
“You didn’t come down Lystra after your climb up jack Bennet, DID YOU!” “Coach” said with an all knowing and scolding tone. “I could not find my friend so I elected to climb up Lystra expecting you to be coming down it”, “I can assure you Lystra is still an ugly climb” he went on to confirm. “I even waited at the top, and told myself I would count to 100 before heading back down just to give you time to get there.” “When I reached 98 I decided to count to 200 before leaving”, he went on to add.
Everyone got a good laugh out of “Coaches” story and were happy that he did find us on the way home.
The group now fully assembled fell in line again behind “Slow Todd” who was still providing gargantuan Pulls for the pack to draft from. Kevin found himself in the middle of the pack as the group of cyclists continued down Luter Shop towards White Oak. In the distance they could see another group of cyclists headed towards them on a route that would likely take them to Lake Jordan. Looking to see if he could recognize anyone Kevin pulled out wide towards the middle of the road. “Dayn, Susann” Kevin shouted as he recognized at least two of the group that was headed out.

Kevin slid back into place in the draft line happy that “Slow Todd” was in control of the pack. Looking up the road Kevin recognized the county line. Without looking around he tried to sense where “Coach” was as well as what those in the lead were planning to do regarding the sprint for the county line. Hearing no gear shifting, seeing no change in pace or position of the riders Kevin made a break for the County Line. “I knew you were going to go for it” cried “Slow Tim” as Kevin powered past standing on the pedals making an effort to look like he was a real racer. Kevin was seen raising one hand in victory as he and he alone was the only rider attacking the county line.

The group continued their strong run down Luter Shop/Green Level. As they reached Yates Store Kevin asked that everyone slow, and circle while he dropped back to check on Jeffery who had since slid off the back of the pack. Kevin made contact and told Jeffery the expected route they would take towards home. “I am OK and I know my way home from hear” Jeffery was giving permission to the others to continue their charge towards home, and to let him fall off the pace.

With that the pack once again picked up the pace with “Slow Todd” still driving the pack at 19 and 20 mph all the way back to the finish. One of “Slow Todds” most powerful rides of the season, and maybe the best ride anyone can recall.

The “Thorns” rode 52 miles at 17.8 mph average.
Once the bikes were stowed away the riders headed to bruggers for continued chitchat and nourishment.
Kevin was seen glassy eyed as he was working to recover from the two days of solid biking.
“Coach” was not even winded, or tired. If we did a DNA test on him and “Capn Carbon” it may be discovered that they are Brothers, or came here to earth from the same distant planet.

The “Roses” had a solid ride coving 36 miles at a 15 mph pace. Theresa and Jae suggested that the newer riders were not challenged and that maybe there needs to be a middle group that rides somewhere in between the “Thorns and Roses”, this new group could be the “Stems”.
I suspect the “Thorns could shed a couple of folks (like Kevin) who struggle at the faster longer rides, but could do very well with the “Stems”. Kevin may not even qualify as a “Stem” he may have to form his own special group called the “Stubs”.

End of March rides

Saturday March 28

In attendance:
Riding with the “Thorns”
Todd Spain – “TriTodd”
Todd Pechner – “Slow Todd”
Steve Cope – “Chiwawa”, “The Gnat”, “Angry Chipmunk”, “Capn Carbon”
Kevin Smit – “GOG”
Jeffery Roussel – back on the bike after 2 weeks off and being sick for one week (considering giving him the nickname of “Down Hill Racer” – he only attacks on the down hills).
Jen Serino– “Slow Jen Fizz”, or “Slow Jen”, or “Fizzy”

Riding with the “Roses”
Jae Brainard
Theresa Smit

Nice enough at the start to ride without arm or leg warmers, in fact it was humid and threatening rain.
The streets were still wet from the evening, early morning showers.

Todd Spain “TriTodd” asked if he could ride with the group today. Normally he stops in for a cup of coffee and a short visit before he heads out on his own solo ride, or swim, or run. Today however he was looking for an easy ride that he could do as a warm-up for his 7 ½ mile run in the afternoon. He was also looking for some comic relief which is always provided by this group of cyclists.

Jen “slow Jen Fizz” had returned to try riding with the group again even after a lousy ride last Saturday. As you may recall the ride last Saturday was plagued with many mechanical failures resulting in a slow, low mileage ride. Jen “Fizzy” is a strong rider and was looking for a greater challenge than last week’s ride provided. When asked by Kevin what brought her back a second time she responded “I had to give you guys another chance, I would hope that you could do better than last weekend”. The group was glad to hear they were worth a second try.

Todd Pechner “Slow Todd”, and Jeffery “Down Hill Racer” both arrived at the start on their bikes having ridden from home.

Steve Cope “Capn Carbon” had arrived in the Yellow Thing with his full carbon machine complete with Carbon sow up rims.

Kevin was planning on trying to take the “Thorns” on the route attempted but aborted last Saturday. The route would provide 40 miles with a variety of rolling hills in the middle of the ride and a flat finish.

“Down Hill Racer” asked “Are we going to do Tingen, I like Tingen”. “Well I hadn’t considered that, but if its Tingen you want then Tingen it is” was Kevin’s reply.
“How far is it” asked “Fizzy”. “Probably about 40 – 45” was Kevin’s “GOG’s” reply.

With that information the pack headed out of the parking lot and into the Preston neighborhood.

“Down Hill Racer” set the stage early fining himself in the pull position. “TriTodd” sat comfortably in the slip stream of Jeffery with “GOG” riding by his side as they discussed the concept of setting up a series of Time Trials for riders in the area to attempt. “Slow Todd” was already lunging forward and then falling back as he worked to get his legs and lungs ready for his patented attack and recover style riding. “Capn Carbon” was not yet ready to respond to “Slow Todd’s” antics knowing he would have many opportunities to destroy each and every attack that would be mounted throughout the day’s ride.
Instead “Capn Carbon” and “Fizzy” were busy chatting near the back of the pack.

The “Roses” were already out of site before the “Thorns” had made the light at Davis drive.

This was going to be a fast paced ride as “Down Hill Racer” continued to push the pace early.
“Left Turn” was the command from “GOG” as he directed the group away from “Ron’s Pull” and back into the Cary neighborhood south of High House road. “Slow Todd” was the first to make the turn off of High House with the rest of the pack holding up for oncoming traffic.

The first attack of the day was being setup. The climb on Jenk’s Carpenter Road as it climbs up to Holt is always the first attack of the day whenever the group heads in that direction. Today’s attack began early. “GOG” was in the lead position as the pack began the downhill run. His lead was quickly exchanged for by Jeffery as he swung out and powered downhill. Now you know why he is to forever more be known in the group as “Down Hill Racer”. Close behind him was “Slow Todd”, then “Capn Carbon” then “TriTodd”. By the time that group hit the bottom of the hill the attack was now in full force. “Capn Carbon” had shifted into even higher gears as he prepared to push the pedals at high rpms in as tough a gear as possible. “Slow Todd” was in a Triassholete position on his arrow bars, and “TriTodd” was watching and measuring his response. “TriTodd” would be challenged all day long as each and every attack forced him to consider responding or letting them go to save himself for the long run planned right after the ride. “Down Hill Racer” had already been swallowed up and spit out by the three now rolling out of the downhill and applying pressure on the uphill climb.

“BANG”

Suddenly the three left in the attack looked all around to see what happened. “TriTodd” slowed, “Capn Carbon” looked down and back towards the rear of his bike. “Slow Todd” continued his attack. “Capn Carbon” paused only long enough to ensure he did not have a flat and then leapt out of the saddle to insure his momentum would not be lost and to respond to the big gear selection he had made for the attack. As usual “Capn Carbon” soon had established himself as the dominant rider by pulling away from all others. “GOG” was third to the intersection with “TriTodd” demonstrating great restraint and commitment to making sure he was to ride easy today and not push hard on the bike. “Fizzy” and he finished the climb with ease followed closely by “Down Hill Racer”.

At the intersection of Jenks Carpenter and Holt “Capn Carbon” was asking if anyone had a spoke wrench. He had blown a spoke on his rear wheel explaining the load explosion heard at the start of the attack. He was now looking to try and true the wheel as it did not spin past his brake pads. SO. Not only did “Capn Carbon” dominate the uphill attack he did so with a broken spoke that would not allow his wheel to spin past the brake pads. “Are you going to ride on back to the start?” Kevin asked in an effort to give “Capn Carbon” and easy out. “No, if I can just loosen the spokes around the broken one and open up my rear brake pads a little I think I can finish the ride” was Steve’s response.
Kevin then looked at Jen to see if she was ready to make the determination that this ride group has nothing but problems. “You know this is two times you have ridden with this group and both times someone has had mechanical failures” Kevin directed towards Jen. “I was already thinking that myself” she replied with a smile.

It only took a minute for Steve to true his rear wheel enough to head on down the road.
“OK do we turn right or left now” asked “Capn Carbon” as he put away the spoke wrench. “Jeffery wanted to do Tingen so we will do Tingen, after all its all about Jeffery” Kevin replied with a smile.

The pack fell in place behind “GOG” as they rode into Apex and its poorly maintained roads.
The group spent limited time passing thru Apex to find themselves at the start of the long fast smooth Tingen Road.

In an instant “Jeffery” took off as if there was a downhill to attack, however Tingin cannot be classified as a downhill. This attack was quickly addressed by “Slow Todd” and “Capn Carbon”. “Capn Carbon” was happy to fall into place behind “Slow Todd” waiting his turn to attack when he felt the need. Jeffery, “Down Hill Racer” was no match for the two who jumped right behind him. “TriTodd”, “GOG”, and “Fizzy” were all very slow to respond. It was “TriTodd” who then took chase with “GOG” slow again to respond creating a large gap between the two. “Fizzy” fizzled immediately as she was the slowest to recognize what was unfolding.

“GOG” jumped to a bigger gear, jumped out of the saddle to drive the pedals at an even higher rpm and was still losing ground to “TriTodd”. “Keep driving, just a little longer, close the gap and then rest” was the message bouncing around in “GOG’s” head. 32 mph then 33 mph and finally “GOG” was in the slipstream behind “TriTodd” who was still accelerating to catch the two earl attackers. “Down Hill Racer” had already been passed and was working to grab onto “GOG’s” rear wheel. “Fizzy” was no longer in “GOG’s” mirror as she never had a chance to jump into the fray.

Before Tingen turned into rolling hills the Chase team had caught the two breakaway riders who then one at a time pulled out from the lead position to fall into the draft. This rotation continued with each taking turns in the pull position. “TriTodd” then “Down Hill Racer” who had slipped past “GOG”, then “GOG” who was followed closely by “Slow Todd” and “Capn Carbon”. The rotation from the pull position to drafting continued. Just as Tingen turned from smooth and flat to Hilly and Hillier “GOG” found himself back in the pull position with “Capn Carbon” laughing at the fact that this seems to always happen every time the group rides this road. “You have got to plan it better than this”, “Every time we do this ride you end up in the pull position just as it gets ugly” Steve Cope taunted Kevin.
Just at that moment Kevin pull out of position to allow Steve the pull position. The pack now began to splinter as each rider prepared for the next couple of miles of Hills each presenting its own challenge to the riders.

“Slow Todd” and “Capn Carbon” continued their head to head battle as “GOG” and the others sat up in the saddle, slowed, and used the excuse they wanted to wait for “Fizzy” which would allow for a brief recovery just as the hills arrived.
“Capn Carbon” never slowed and was quickly out of site. He and “Slow Todd” were found circling at the intersection of Friendship as they politely allowed the rest of the pack to reassemble.

“TriTodd” was still showing a great deal of restraint by not being pulled into the attacks. “TriTodd” can easily crush all and would give “Capn Carbon” a run for his money, with a split decision from the judges as to who won each attack. “TriTodd” is clearly more disciplined than “Slow Todd” and “Capn Carbon”, again demonstrating his strength not just physically but mentally and emotionally. That is something none of the other riders possess.

The group made the left turn onto Friendship and headed towards New Hill Holleman Road and the run towards Sharen Harris Nuclear Plant. In the distance the group could see a long rider prompting the next attack “Slow Todd” and “Capn Carbon” responded. The others sat back and watched while maintaining 19 mph as if hoping that speed would keep them insight and allow for a recovery from the previous hills.

Just as the riders regrouped at the New Hill Holleman intersection “Fizzy” was heard saying “Can we stop long enough for a GELL!” Notice this was not a question.

“SURE” replied the ride leader. With that the group finally caught “Slow Todd” and “Capn Carbon” who were talking to the lone rider they had chased down and were demanding $10 for the drafting fee they charge each rider they blow buy on the road. This lone rider decided it would be best to turn right and leave the group behind rather than stay and take any more verbal or physical abuse from the two riders who had just crushed him. “I think you offended him” Capn Carbon was heard speaking to Slow Todd.
Jen – “Slow Jen Fizz” was just finishing squeezing the stuffing out of her Gue packet when TriTodd said “what, are we going to visit all day long?”.

With that the pack was off again left onto New Hill Holleman and the turn towards Sharen Harris Nuclear Plant. “Sow Todd” attacked again with “Capn Carbon” hot on his heels. It was “Capn Carbon” first into the turn as each rider made the sweeping turn in unison right behind.
The road was now headed down hill. Everyone expected “Down Hill Racer” to start the attack. He and “Capn Carbon” were ridding side by side as “Capn Carbon” was there to both egg him on and to keep him close by for a rapid response to any attack. “GOG” saw what was taking place and decided to sneak up on the two. “Capn Carbon” had all his radar up as he was expecting “Slow Todd” to attack from the outside while he was watching “Down Hill Racer” who was on the inside. “GOG” timed is move carefully. He knew he needed just the right amount of momentum to capitalize on as the hill began to rise up ahead, and not to attack too early, and to slowly roll into position, and to time it when “Capn Carbon” was checking his outside shoulder. “GOG’s” plan was to slip between the two riders who were riding too close to fit another biker between them. If done properly both lead riders would naturally slide apart from the surprise of someone in the middle, and in doing so would be distracted from peddling and also mentally distracted for just an instant.
“GOG” was now sitting with his front tire in between the two riders, his handlebars almost touching the lead riders seats, poised to pounce. Just as “Capn Carbon” looked back towards the inside “GOG” made his move forcing himself between the two riders. “HEY” he heard “Capn Carbon” cry. That was just enough to allow the finishing touches of his short-lived attack. In his mirror “GOG” saw that “Down Hill Racer” and been startled enough to fall off the pace but stay in control of his bike as “GOG” pushed thru. He did not see “Capn Carbon” which only meant his attack had been quickly met by the fast twitch muscles from “Capn Carbon” and that he was sitting in “GOG’s” blind spot. With in an instant “GOG” turned to look to the outside only to see the smiling face of “Capn Carbon” who was now just riding comfortably as “GOG’s” short attack was quickly fading.

All this took place in the first few hundred feet of the ½ mile gradual climb up to the curve at the top of the hill. The whole pack did a great job of powering up the hill and did not fall below 19 mph as they all pushed against the pressure that gravity is always ready to provide.

Now headed towards old US highway 1 on Sharen Harris road the draft line reformed with “Capn Carbon” and “TriTodd” continuously battling for the pull position. Everyone else focused on holding on as the pace was now in the low 20 mph range. “Slow Jen Fiz” was tucked in tight and riding a solid ride.
“How far have we gone” she asked. “20 miles at 17.4 average” was the reply.

“TriTodd” was the first to leave the intersection of Sharen Harris and Old Highway 1 as he started to turn right the cry from the pack called him back “Left turn”. “But home is this direction” he responded.

The pack was now headed away from home on Old Highway 1 headed towards Bonsil and the fun fast run down Beaver Dam Road towards Lake Jordan.
The pack remained together all the way to Bonsil with all slowing to cross the railroad tracks in Bonsil and onto Beaver Dam Road.
The entire length of this road the pace did not fall below 21 mph. “TriTodd” was feeling good and was just now starting to warm up which accounted for the increased speeds as everyone worked to respond to his new intensity level. “Capn Carbon” and “TriTodd” would exchange pull positions as each worked to pull the pack along. On one exchange “Capn Carbon” decided to drift further back to check on each rider and to visit. Just as he dropped to the last spot “Slow Todd” jumped out of line and attacked. He did this knowing “Capn Carbon” had just done a long pull, and would be in the wrong gear and cadence having drifted to the back of the pack. For an entire 10 seconds “Slow Todd” had the lead. “Capn Carbon’s” response was so explosive that his slip stream pushed those he passed slightly towards the edge of the road. “Slow Todd” was still just winding up towards the top end of his attack as “Capn Carbon” shot past him and continued to accelerate as if a F18 just buzzed a WWI biplane.
Several more attacks transpired as the pack continued on Beaver Dam towards Highway 64 and WilsonVille. “I am HUNGRY” “Fizzy” whimpered. “We can stop for a short while at the gas station just down the road” was “GOG’s” sympathetic reply. “It is no good to be around someone who is Bitchy Hungry” he went on to acknowledge. “Thank You, you are right, no one wants to be around me when I am HUNGRY” Jen responded.

There was no more banter until the gas station.

“30 miles at 18 mph average, we actually sped up that last 10 miles”, Kevin informed the group.
“SOMEONE GIVE ME A GEL” Jen was now foaming at the mouth. It looked like she had just eaten a bunch of FIZZY candies and they were all foaming up at once.
“I got a Chocolate Chip Mint GEL” cried “Capn Carbon” in horror at the site of Jen “FIZZING” from her mouth. “GIVE IT TO ME” Jen demanded. Within the blink of an eye the Gel was snatch from the hands of “Capn Carbon”. “MMMMM”, “That was really GOOD” Jen spoke as she licked the gel frosting from the edges of her mouth.
“TriTodd” was busy telling the group about his sore wrist and how it is the result of his many crashes on the bike. This suggest that he might be someone like Daine McBee, to avoid riding close to since last year Dayne crashed multiple times resulting in multiple bone breaks. None of their crashes were a result of riding with the “Thorns”.

With ‘Slow Jen Fizz” now partially satisfied the group mounted their bikes and headed across Highway 64 and onto Farrington road. It did not take long for that pace to again reach a sustained 21 mph. From there “Slow Todd” again mounted another attack with both “Capn Carbon” and “TriTodd” responding.
“Right turn onto Hoton Pond” Kevin shouted, as he knew they would soon be out of earshot for any instructions from the ride leader. The three were well ahead of the trailing group of three and were circling at Horton Pond to confirm they were on the correct path. Once all had made the commitment to Horton Pond “TriTodd” mounted an attack. This caught everyone by surprise as he was saving himself for the days long run once he got home. Clearly the ride had not challenged him and he was itching to get some degree of a workout on the bike. “Capn Carbon” scampered after him with “Slow Todd” slow to react but working to make a play in response anyway. “TriTodd” and “Capn Carbon” were not seen from that point on. “Slow Todd” had jumped enough to make a solid break away from the pack but was too far back to close the gap on the breakaway riders, placing him in no man’s land all alone.
“How much further” Jen asked.
“Well we can do any number of miles and hills depending on what you feel like” was Kevin’s response.
“We can flatten it almost completely and shorten it several miles” he went on to explain.
“FLAT and SHORT sound great, I am getting real hungry and will likely eat Bruggers out of business when we get back” was “Fizzy’s” reply.
“Consider it done” Kevin said with confidence that he could meet that request.

As the three trailing riders got to the intersection of Horton Pond and 751 they saw “Slow Todd” doing a wheel stand as he waited for those behind to catch him. He was just starting to coast into a right hand turn when Kevin shouted for a Left turn. This is an unusual command at this point since the standard route home form here would normally be a right turn followed by a short run on 751 and the first left onto Luther and the many hills towards Cary. Both “TirTodd” and “Capn Carbon” had anticipated this normal route and were already committed to Luther before they saw the pack turn away from them headed left rather than right onto 751.

Kevin figured the two lead riders were ready to duke it out the last 10 -12 miles of hills into town. “They know their way back, and will likely use it to attack each other all the way home” Kevin told the group of now 4 riders as each was showing concern for turning away from the lead group.

Kevin continued to lead the remaining band of cyclist down 751 to the Strawberry patch at Luter Shop. A right turn onto Luther shop put the group on the flattest most direct route home. The pace was now in the 14 – 17 mph range with Kevin working to keep the group in a protected Pack. “Slow Todd” would still charge on ahead as he has never figured out how to ride a steady pace. Jeffery was in no position to attack since there were no more Down Hills on the way in. Kevin “GOG” was not in a position to attack since he is old and out of shape and was already starting to have sweat management issues (Glistening Older Gentleman). “Slow Jen Fizz” was just excited to be doing a longer rider for her this season. Her objective for the day was to ride at least 40 miles.

The route continued to the end of Luter shop were the riders then did the short jog onto Green Level and the immediate left onto Green Hope High School Road, followed by the short cyclo-cross over the rail road tracks and onto Carpenter Up Church. Just prior to the groups turn into Preston Jeffery said his goodbyes as his house was on straight and he had ridden to the start of the ride. The others made the left turn back into Preston. “Slow Todd” was the next to say his goodbyes to the group as his house was just a block away and having ridden to the start he needed to go no further.

After a short diversion onto Morrisville Parkway, and the right onto Crabtree Crossing “GOG” and “Fizz” were now winding down the last 2 or 3 miles of the day. This section of road presents some long slow climbs that always hurt at the end of the ride. A right turn onto Cary parkway and within two blocks the riders were gliding back into the parking lot a Bruggers.

“Capn Carbon” and “TriTodd” were already back having raced each other the last 12 miles into the finish. They had attacked and attacked again several times on the way in to the finish. During their short recoveries the two shared stories of days of OLD when both were younger and part of the racing scene of those days. Steve Cope worked in a bike shop and raced as a Cat 2 in the mountains of Virginia. Todd Spain raced/trained with folks such as Andy Hamsted and Bob Roll, during the years of the Coors Classic bike race.

The “Thorns” rode 49.2 miles at 17.8 mph pace. A solid performance from everyone. The furthest and fastest of the season.

The “Roses” were already in and were found visiting with Ron and Tracy Clanton who did not make the start of the ride but wanted to drink coffee and visit with the group.
It was learned that the “Roses” had done some exploring of their own and randomly picked different roads to see where they went. One of their choices put them unaware onto a section of interstate 540.
“Slow Jen Fizz” bought a dozen bagels.


Sunday March 29th.

Those in attendance
Riding with the “ Thorns”
Todd Spain – “TriTodd” – back for a second day of riding. Clearly this was an easy weekend of riding for him.
Steve Cope – “Chiwawa”, “Angry Chipmunk”, “The Gnat”, “Capn Carbon” too many stories to tell to explain why so many nicknames.
Jeffery Roussel – “Down Hill Racer”
Tim Divine – “Fast Tim”, “The Love Train”
Kristie Miller – “Pink Triassholete”
Josh Carter – “Moving Violation” – he made the mistake of sharing how he was pulled over in Florida for making a wrong turn in front of a patrolman with an attitude. So He now has a nickname.
Mike Prentice – first time riding with the group (one of TriTodds Triassholetes)
Kevin Smit “GOG” (Glistening Older Gentleman)

Those riding with the “Roses”
Theresa Smit
Jae Brainard

Prior to the start of the ride the group leaned that “Capn Carbon” not only blew a spoke on Saturday’s ride but he now has a small crack in the rim of his Carbon Fiber rear wheel. It was a loud BANG when that spoke blew and the pressure on the rim must have stressed it to the breaking point.
YES he is riding on that rim today with a new spoke and a crack in the carbon fiber. The next BANG will be followed with shards of Carbon Fiber when the entire rim disintegrates. Do not be the one riding near him when that happens. If you do not die from the shrapnel the sound alone my give you a heart attack when the whole thing disintegrates as if the “BIG BANG” was happening all over again.

The group also showed excitement and a level of commitment to a “Thorns and Roses” group jersey. Look for an email soon with more details. The cost might be around $50.

After short introductions of all the riders to the new guy, and a welcome back for “Pink Triassholete” the pack was off into the Preston neighborhood.

The pack was busy catching up with Kristy since this was the first ride for her in about a YEAR. She had just completed a marathon and the training for that took all her time, (or so she says). The pack was also working to make Mike feel welcomed. Mike has been biking for about one season but rides with the skill of a seasoned veteran. Mike was hoping to keep up with group having joined “TriTodd” Saturday for a 7 ½ mile run, and was feeling that in his legs this morning.

Just like Saturday Jeffery “Down Hill Racer” set the pace early. The group did not fall into a draft line as everyone jockeyed around in the pack allowing them to chit chat with the various riders prior to any speed play that was sure to unfold later.

Kevin “GOG” was looking to provide a 35 mile ride with some level of hills, fast sections, and surprise turns. He had a general idea of the areas he wanted to subject the riders to but was willing to adjust based on who he could catch making an assumed turn or missed turn resulting in a breakaway. This game allows those who want to attack and ride hard to do so at the expense of being called back to the pack when the pack elects to make a turn at an intersection that the breakaway riders had already passed.

The route today started down the same roads traveled on Saturday’s ride. This time however “Capn Carbon” was able to respond to the first attack on the hill towards Holt without blowing a spoke. He and Josh “Moving Violation” sparred back and forth the entire length of the day’s first climb.

The pack then made a right turn onto Holt rather than the left taken a day earlier. This put the pack square into a 20 -30 mph head wind. This was done intentionally by Kevin to force the group to work together early in the ride to combat the wind and then allow for more of a tail wind on the second half of the ride. The pack worked well protecting each other from the wind as they traveled the length of Holt to highway 54. At that intersection “Down Hill Racer” asked “are we doing Roberts, or going on straight?”. Kevin thought about his response since he does not want to reveal any surprises too early.
His first thought was to take Roberts, however he was willing to see if anyone got there first and would assume that turn. If anyone headed that way ahead of the pack Kevin would direct the pack straight on past. “We will just have to wait and see” was Kevin’s response.

Across the intersection and the pack began to reform. Kevin deliberately slowed to see who would take the rains and form a breakaway. Josh, Steve Cope, Mike, and Todd Spain all jumped into the lead. Sure enough the breakaway group made the right turn onto Roberts. “OK we go Straight” Kevin informed those still in the pack. Know in the lead group Jeffery “Down Hill Racer” took control of the pace pulling the remaining pack member on straight towards the next possible turn at Wimberly. It did not take long for the now abandoned breakaway group to slow, do a u-turn, and scramble back to the pack.

The group was fully formed as “Down Hill Racer” led everyone to the stop sign/intersection of Holt and Old Jenks road. As the pack slowed Jeffery “Down Hill Racer” shot on through the intersection. Next in line was “The Love Train” under full power, with the pack scattered around him. “CAR LEFT” was the cry from the pack. In an amazing display of bike handling skills “The Love Train” clamped on all brakes resulting in his rear tire to rise up off the pavement, his front tire to skid, and “The Love Train” to control the bike as a Cowboy would be riding a Bronco Bull. To everyone’s amazement he maintained full control, brought he bike to a complete stop, still with rear end in the air, and finally settling back down as if this was how he performs a normal stop. In addition all other riders reacted as if this all happened in slow motion allowing them to make any adjustments in line of travel to avoid the potential disaster for them and those around them. If only someone had a camera and were recording it then this would have been one of those disaster-averted videos that make it to TrueTv or YouTube.

“The Love Train” paused long enough to take stock in what had just happened and to realize he was indeed still alive to talk about it.

The message for all to take away from this is “You are responsible for your own assessment of potential risk at any intersection”. “The Love Train” made that snap decision for himself even though another rider shot on thru. The intersection is a blind intersection, which unfortunately forced a dramatic response from him. Normally all would be slowing together and no one would typically clamp on the brakes to that extreme. The group was very lucky no one plowed into each other or into the intersection.

The pack gathered their composure back and rode safely thru the intersection. “Down Hill Racer” had slowed in anticipation of letting the pack regroup. “WOW”, “Sorry I thought it was safe to go on thru” he offered to the group. Nothing more needed to be said. It took no time at all for a new breakaway group to attack and pull away from the others. This break away was formed by Mike (the new guy), “Moving Violation”, and “Capn Carbon”. Kevin was still in the trailing group and looked to see if the lead riders would continue their attack or slow for the next planned (but not announced) turn onto Wimberly. There was now a huge gap between the two groups as the lead riders shot on past Wimberly. “Right Turn” Kevin directed. The pack was now back in the lead and remained there until just before the end of Wimberly before the breakaway group was able to turn and chase the pack down.
Mike pulled up to Kevin and said “Do you always pick on the new guy?”. “Nope, just hang with the pack and you will see that we pick on everyone”, was Kevin’s reply.

The group made the left turn onto Green Level at the top of the hill. “Moving Violation” was the first to jump followed by “Down Hill Racer” followed by “GOG”. Scampering alongside everyone was the “Chiwawa” nipping at the bikers heals as he taunted all who dared to try and be the first to the top of the next hill. And it was the “Chiwawa” taking first place with “Moving Violation” in second as everyone worked the gears and the cadence to survive the attack on the uphill.

A right turn onto Luther and the pack stop long enough to consume some water and to assess how everyone was holding up. “TriTodd” had not yet warmed up. “Pink Triassholete” was feeling real good about being back on the bike. Mike was proud to know that he was not singled out as the only person that was getting picked on. “Moving Violation” was keeping a watchful eye on “Capn Carbon”. “GOG” was working to catch his breath. “Down Hill Racer” was coasting on ahead. “The Love Train” was singing a tune. “Capn Carbon” was grinning from ear to ear. Kevin’s assessment of the group was that he was the only one suffering.

The run down Luther kept the pack together until the last long climb. This is always met with an attack and response from those in the pack. Today was no exception. “OK prepare for another attack” Kevin whispered to Mike. Kevin will do his best to attack as best he can on this hill. He likes to position himself in the middle to first third of the pack, allowing for downhill momentum and then any slingshot he can get from drafting those ahead. Today he timed it as well as he could to maximize on momentum gained from the downhill, keeping in the big chain ring he was able to spin at 111 rpms as the climb began to bog the riders down. Kevin knew he would have to make the climb out of the saddle if he was to sustain any speed at all. He has been deliberately working on standing on the peddles in ever increasing lengths of time. Slowly he is building up his endurance on this type of attack.
As usual “Capn Carbon” was heard giggling as he glided alone beside “GOG” as if edging on the attack even further while fully confident that in a snap of the fingers he could explode on past the now struggling ride leader. And then with the crest of the climb only feet away “Capn Carbon” snapped his fingers leaving “GOG” as if standing still. Just over the crest “Capn Carbon” offered “GOG” a celebratory fist bump, as if to say good job OLD MAN.

A quick right turn onto 751 was followed by the fist left onto Horton Pond. Again Kevin held the group up for an instant. “Isn’t this were Josh lost his breakfast once/” “Pink Triassholete” asked in a taunting voice. “Moving Violation” only dropped his head in despair realizing he will never live down that moment from several seasons ago. “Yes and this is also were the group first met Slow Tim a few seasons ago” was the additional information provided by “Capn Carbon”. It was “Down Hill Racer” who was the first to head on down Horton Pond. The pack never really assembled the entire section of this route. The pack splintered into three groups with “TriTodd”, “Moving Violation”, and “Capn Carbon” all attacking each other the entire length of Horton Pond. “Down Hill Racer” and “The Love Train” worked together to reenact the pull they did a few weekends ago when they ran down the breakaway on that day. “Pink Triassholete”, “GOG” and Mike all rode a comfortable steady pace up and over all the rolling hills of Horton Pond.

At the right turn onto Farrington all were back together with “Capn Carbon” asking “are we doing Lystra?”. “IF anyone mentions that name we have to do it” was the reply from Kevin. “NO” was the chorus from the pack.

“GOG” was in the pull position and stayed there thru the climbs past Holland Chapel and towards Lake Jordon. At the crest of the last climb he was passed easily by “Moving Violation” who was now winding up the power meter on his rear wheel to see how many watts he could generate. That move opened the door for others to follow. “TriTodd” was next to pass, with “Capn Carbon” on his heels. Then “Pink Triatholete” made her move only to be followed by “The Love Train”. The rest of the pack was comfortable with riding in the slipstream of “GOG” as they were doing 25 mph at that point in time.
As the riders neared the intersection of Martha Chapel it was clear that the breakaway riders were all thinking Lystra. “GOG” however was thinking home. “Right Turn” was the command. Kevin along with Mike, and “Down Hill Racer” swept thru the turn onto Martha Chapel. Kevin could see the breakaway riders all still powering on down Farrington headed towards Lystra. “I do learn my lesson eventually” Mike was proud to announce as he was one of those making the Correct turn and not having to now chase down the ride leader. The riders rode a comfortable pace up Martha Chapel heading away from Lake Jordan and towards the finish. Those first to catch the lead pack were “TriTodd”, “Moving Viloation”, and “Capn Carbon”. It took over a mile before they were able to recover from the missed turn and to rejoin “GOG”. “The Love Train” and “Pink Triassholete” had been delayed in making the u-turn due to heavy traffic. This slowed their ability to regroup until the end of Martha’s Chapel were the other riders were now circling to allow for all to regroup.

Several of the riders had started to lean into the right turn onto 751 as if to head towards the Strawberry patch. Without and command “GOG” leaned left away from the others and headed down 751 away from the Strawberry patch. This again put “GOG” in the pull position with all quickly falling in line behind him and his slip stream. “Capn Carbon” was gliding along being pulled by the draft generated by “GOG’s” girth. The pack reached 31 mph as 751 fell and then began to rise towards the turn onto Mount Pisgah. Just as the ride leader was spun out “Capn Carbon” rushed past to announce to all that he would again be the king of the climb. No one challenged. A right turn onto Mount Pisgah and the pace slowed with all staying in a clump. “I don’t want to do UpChuck” was heard from “Pinky” (Kristie). “OK” “I will take you on an alternate route towards “Nicole’s Roller Coasters” Kevin was heard saying in a consoling tone.

The group continued in a clump thru the next right turn and then the following left onto Luter Shop.
During that slower stretch “Capn Carbon” asked “The Love Train” were his wife, Dani, was and why she was not out on the ride with the group. “We have guests coming over later and she is getting ready for them” was the reply. “Oh so you get to go out and play while she stays home and does all the work”, “Capn” said in an inquiring tone. “Yep”, “ I am an Alpha Male and she is my Bitch” Tim (The Love Train) said with great pride.
“But don’t anyone tell her I just said that” he bagged.
“Na, Not to worry something like that would never make it into the BLOG” was “GOG’s” response.

Once onto Luter Shop everyone knew where they were and how to get to “Nicole’s Roller Coasters”. This information provided for the next series of attacks and responses from “TriTodd”, “Capn Carbon”, and “Moving Violation”. The others were just happy to watch the game. As the group closed in on White Oak they saw the breakaway riders circling with “TriTodd” off his bike looking at his rear wheel. He thought he had a flat but all was fine. A great trick to pull on the attack group, forcing them to pull up from the attack thinking you have problems, and allowing for a short recovery for yourself without looking like you were in physical trouble. Kevin could recognize this trick since he is a pro at utilizing it for himself. The pack now back together glided into the Cary Glenn neighborhood were “Nicole’s Rollercoaster’s” were about to be experienced.

At the turn onto Cary Glenn the riders encountered the large contingency of riders headed out for their ride from Cycling Spoken Here. Many of those in that group knew “TriTodd’ and “Capn Carbon” and shouted out to them. Both riders paused to visit as the rest of the “Thorns” coasted on towards the 3 hills that lay ahead. That was the last time on the rest of the ride the “Thorns” saw “TriTodd” and “Capn Carbon”. Those two riders decided they needed more miles and a stronger pace to get a reasonable workout for the day. The two had started to head for home when “TriTodd” said “ya know I could use a few more miles, maybe we should turn and ride with the Cycling Spoken Here group”. “Capn Carbon” is always up for a challenge and turned immedatly back towards the larger group to accept “TriTodds” challenge. The two riders then worked together to chase down the Cycling Spoken Here group. This put them in straight into a 20 -30 mph head wind. Eventually they caught the group after about 4 or 5 miles of sustained effort.

The “Thorns” now down by two riders continued as a group through the last 8 to 10 miles on into the finish. To stay out of the head winds on the last section of road the group was directed to protected neighborhood roads that wound around behind Green Hope High School, and into the Preston Neighborhood.

The “Thorns” completed 36 miles at 16.8 mph average.
The “Thorns” then joined the “Roses” for coffee and bagels and more banter.
Then the group had the idea of either Picking up Steve Copes car, a VW Thing, and moving it to a new parking location, or pushing it to some other spot in the parking lot.
Just as the group got up the courage to do the dead Todd Spain “TriTodd” came zooming into the finish.
He and “Capn Carbon” did another 20 miles out and back to Lake Jordan with the other bike group, and in doing so mounted attack after attack until they were the only ones left standing. “Capn Carbon” had decided to ride on past Bruggers to the finish of the other groups ride.
The “Thorns” then informed “TriTodd” of their pending trick to be pulled on Steve. Todd then joined in as Kristie got in the car to drive with all the “Thorns and Roses” pushing the car out of its current spot.
“I can’t turn the wheel it is Locked” cried Kristie.
With the realization that the plan was flawed the group guided the “THING” back into its original parking location.
Steve will never know that he might have been looking for his “Thing” once back from his extended bike ride.

Spring has Sprung

Saturday March 21

Not a great day of biking.

Those in attendance
Jay Brainard
Jen Serino
Jill (still never got her last name)
Paul Miller
Steve Cope (Capn Carbon – now with carbon fiber wheels)
Nate Poerschke
Kevin Smit
Theresa Smit
Nicole Lewis
Sheila Augustine

The Roses and Thorns planned to travel a newer route that took the cyclists towards RTP and then back South to familiar roads and on in towards the finish.

The temperature was in the low 30’s at start time so most cyclists were dawning layers of clothing, expect Nate who was in biking shorts with no leg warmers or tights. Looking at him made everyone else feel cold.

The pack headed out from the start with Theresa in the lead. The Thorns and Roses intended to ride the first 10 or 12 miles together as they traveled the newer section of the route.

Those plans were shattered several times on the days ride.
First situation that splintered the pack happened before fully leaving the confines of the Preston neighborhood. Kevin was riding in the middle of the pack keeping an eye on the leaders as well as monitoring the back of the pack in his mirror. The pace was pretty strong for the Roses and Theresa was the Rose setting the pace in the Pull Position. As the group was about to enter Ron’s Pull, Kevin noticed Jae falling off the back of the pack. As he continued to monitor her she fell even farther off the back. This prompted Kevin to fall back in an effort to help Jae close the gap, however she continued to falter.
Kevin turned and rode back to see what he could do to help. Jae was not feeling good at all and had already made the decision to call the ride off for her. Kevin and Jae then made phone calls. Jae called Beth another member of the Roses who had not decided to ride today and was at home. Beth lived very close to where Jae and Kevin had stopped alongside the road. Beth agreed to come and pick up Jae and her bike and take her back to the start. Kevin called Theresa to let her know where he and Jae where.
Kevin told Theresa to continue with the ride and he would make an effort to catch them once Jae was safely off the side of the road and in Beth’s van.

It did not take Beth long to arrive. Kevin said goodbye to Jae and Beth and headed out to see how soon he could rejoin the group.
Kevin was not having a great day on the bike either. In his effort to close the gap between himself and the group there were periods he could only sustain 13 mph. He had no energy at all, no ability to produce power or RPMs.

Kevin finally caught the pack as they were making the turn onto Alston off of Highway 55. Just as he was closing the gap he saw Jill pull away from the pack and turn for home. Jill had a time constraint and the pack started later than she had planned and was going much slower than expected due to the Roses and Thorns riding together, as well as holding back so Kevin could close the gap. Hopefully Jill will return and the next ride with be more challenging for her than this day’s ride.

Kevin was now back in the fold of the pack as they continued on Alston to Okelly. He learned that both Nate and Theresa had thrown a chain during the early part of the ride.

At the corner of Okelly and Alston Nicole had a rear Flat tire. Kevin worked with Nicole to change the tire as the group waited. Well some of the group waited. The remaining “Roses” (Theresa and Sheila) decided to push on knowing the “Thorns” were planning on dropping the hammer from that point on anyway. Then Steve Cope (Capn Carbon) and Jen informed the group that they each had 12 o’clock commitments and needed to be back at the start in less than an hour. Kevin provided a route that put them back onto familiar roads and the way back to the start. With that new information and Nicole’s tire now fixed and inflated the group headed out onto the now shortened ride route.

Within a mile Nicole commented that her rear tire now had a bump in it that she could feel with each revolution of the tire. Kevin had her pull off the road and looked to see if there was an issue with the tire that could explain the bump. The rest of the pack was now out of sight as they headed for UpChuck hill and the path home. Upon investigation it was noted that Nicole’s rim was Ok, it had no up and down motion in it, the spokes were all equally tight, but the tire did appear to have a flat spot in it. This meant that the tire was on the rim OK but the tube maybe twisted or have a narrow spot on it. The decision was to go ahead and ride it on into the finish. It was also suggested that Nicole let the air out her tire and re-inflate it once the ride was done.

Back on the road Nicole and Kevin were now all alone until they met Nate who had left the leading group and was circling waiting to see if Nicole and Kevin were OK. The three remaining riders now readied themselves for the climb on UpChuck. Kevin took the lead position and swooped down the front side of UpChuck in an effort to us momentum gained to offset the drag about to take place on the climb. All three riders made it to the top however in the process Nate threw his chain again killing any momentum he had planned to use to climb the hill.

The group of 3 riders made the right turn at the top of Upchuck and headed into the rolling hills of Mount Pisgah. Each did a good job of powering thru the undulating hills and out onto Luter Shop. Normally this intersection would have the riders turning right and headed for the Strawberry patch and Lake Jordan areas. Today the riders were already two or more hours into the ride and needing to head for home so they turned left.

Kevin elected to have the three riders head into the finish by traveling thru Cary Glen and “Nicole’s Roller Coasters”. Once thru Cary Glenn the Three riders made the right turn onto Carpenter Fire Station Road. Nicole was falling off the pace slightly as the three made their way towards Highway 54 and “Ron’s Pull”.
Just as they were about to reach the light at 54 a shout from the side of the road caught Kevin’s attention.
It was the “ROSES”. Theresa was in the middle of fixing a flat tire on her bike. Kevin and his group stopped to assist. Once the tube was replaced and tire inflated the group now of 5 riders all headed for the start/finish which now was about 8 miles away.

In the end Steve Cope and his group of Jen and Paul all did about 34 miles.
Theresa and Sheila did 34 miles although on a totally different route than the “Thorns”
Kevin and his band of Nate and Nicole also completed 34 miles. The average was just under 15 mph. The total time from start to finish was close to 3 ½ hours with all the stops, flats, thrown chains.
Just goes to show that one cannot always count on an effortless trouble free ride.


Sunday March 22 nd.

A great Training ride for new riders

Slightly warmer start still needed layers to stay warm at the beginning.
Those in attendance
Steve Cope (Capn Carbon) ready for a Hammer Head type ride.
Kevin Smit (GOG) not ready for a Hammer Head type ride
Theresa Smit - a lonesome “Rose” among the “Thorns”
David Bridenbaugh – ( Mr. Bridenbaugh) ready for a challenge
Don and Carrie Zelna – First time with the group (long time friends of Theresa’s) they tolerate Kevin for short visits. Don and Carrie have never ridden in a group, and are trying road biking to see if they like it.

Kevin recommended that “Capn Carbon” and “Mr. Bridenbaugh” should do their own ride or join the CSH group for today’s ride. Kevin and Theresa were looking forward to helping the Zelna’s having a wonderful first experience on road bikes. Kevin knew that Steve and David would be left out of the days focus and that their skills and abilities would naturally intimidate a newer rider. So both Steve and David were banished to ride with others for the day. They both graciously accepted the rejection and agreed it would be best if they did their own thing, and elected to ride with the CSH group that leaves at 10 am.

The bikes Don and Carrie were riding were set up more as a hybrid vs road bike. Carrie was riding without toe straps, and both were in tennis shoes. The tires on their bikes were better suited for off road, and Carrie’s seat was adjusted way too low. They both had helmets and were dressed for the weather.
Kevin lifted Carrie’s front tire and Steve Cope’s entire bike to find that Carrie’s front tire alone weighed more than Steve’s entire bike – with two full water bottles.

Don and Carrie are both in great shape. Both are runners, and have accomplished several long races. Don is also training for his first Triathlon (sprint series distance). Yes he is a budding TRIASSHOLETTE.

So now you have the picture.

The newly formed pack said goodbye to the two Hammer Heads and headed out onto the streets of Cary. Kevin was designing the route in his head as they traveled into the Preston neighborhood. His intent was to start off on flat roads with the ability to add or remove hills and add or remove miles as the ride unfolded. Kevin is always ready to challenge others while also watching intently for signs of over doing it and adjusting on the fly as needed.

It was evident from the start that both new riders had solid riding skills. Each held their line very well allowing Kevin to draft each of them with comfort. This information was shared with them to help them understand the importance of holding a steady line in a pack. They both also did a great job of Spinning. Kevin was also spinning and would compare their cadence with his. They were well into the mid to upper 90 rpms. Kevin also noticed that each shifted effortlessly and just at the right moment on the hills in order to maintain cadence and speed.

WOW they are naturals. It has taken Kevin years to master these skills and still he falters regularly.

Kevin did stop everyone just before entering Ron’s pull to adjust Carrie’s seat position. The idea was to raise it slightly to see if she was comfortable with the change. The seat was so low that it would take several small adjustments over the course of the ride to bring it closer to proper position. Kevin also provided feedback on the foot position during the pedal stroke. Both Carrie and to a lesser extent Don pedaled with heals too high, sort of in a tippy toe fashion.

Once onto Ron’s pull the pack picked up the pace reaching speeds of 19 to 20 miles per hour. Ron would have been proud of the new riders efforts.
OK the first challenge had been met, how would they do with sustained speeds, and they did great.
Next the group headed onto Fire Station Church Road to see how they did in heavier traffic and in a single draft line. Don did a great job of keeping the gap between him and the rider ahead within a good Wheel Sucking distance. Carrie was much more tentative in closing the gap between her front tire and the rear wheel of the rider ahead. With more practice and understanding of the techniques involved in drafting she will do very well.

As the pack closed in on the Cary Glenn area Kevin had to make another assessment of the new riders and what challenge he felt comfortable in presenting them. Kevin probed the new rider with “OK we are at about 7 miles”, “we can start to head back a couple of ways”, “we can turn around and stay on relatively flat roads, or chose any of 3 other ways with varying degrees of Hills”.

“We feel great”, “Lets not turn around yet”, “We have done 20 miles before and are hoping for a little further”, was the reply from both of the new riders.

“OK you asked for it” “UPChuck here we come” Kevin replied with a huge smile on his face.
Kevin then provided limited information on what was about to unfold for the cyclists. With that the pack started their fast coast downhill towards the climb known affectionately as “UpChuck”.
Kevin used the opportunity to stay in a larger chain ring and stood the entire length of the climb. A great workout that had his heart rate well into the max zone. Once at the top it was time to circle and assess everyone’s attitude to see if they were ready for more miles and hills or ready to head back.
“That was great”, Carrie said with total joy in her voice. Don was already at the top of the hill and circling with Kevin as they anxiously awaited the ladies. Kevin’s next plan was to take them to the intersection of Yates Store and Luter Shop to again assess how everyone was doing.

Once there Kevin again probed the group “OK we are at about 10 or 11 miles”, “We can head back now and end up with around 20 to 24 miles”, “or we can turn right and add any number of miles we chose, the options allow us to adjust the miles and hills as needed”.
“WE want more miles” was the cry from the group.

A right turn onto Luter Shop had the pack now headed for any number of variations of routes and challenges. This was also a good place to adjust Carrie’s seat yet again a little bit higher.

The group rode at a steady 17 mph the entire length to the Strawberry Patch at 751. Without asking Kevin could tell the group was ready for even more miles so he instructed them to take the right and headed for Martha Chapel.
The run down Martha Chapel splintered the pack with Kevin and Don pushing 21+ mph and the ladies falling slightly off the pace.
“OK folks we are at the 17 mile mark I say we head back and look to have done 35 miles by the end of the ride” Kevin suggested.
The pack turned left onto Farrington Road and the part of road known as “Kevin’s Crawl”. Again the group splintered with Kevin and Don pulling up the hill at 17 mph and the ladies falling off the pace with Theresa falling the furthest behind.
A short time circling at Holland Chapel allowed all to gather in a group again. Kevin did one more seat adjustment for Carrie and the pack was headed for home.
Kevin felt the new riders had more than accomplished the challenges he placed on them so far. His objective was to bring the pack home as short and flat as possible. They did a good job of staying relatively close with Theresa bringing up the rear position. The route home took the group the full length of Luter Shop and onto Green Hope High School road.
Half way back on Luter Shop Kevin could see a large pack of riders headed towards them. He suspected it was the CHS group. Sure enough he spied “Capn Carbon” bouncing along chit chatting at 22 mph along side some of the HAMMER HEADS of the group. Steve was not even winded, or sweating as he glided along.
He and Kevin swung out into the middle of the road to pass each other in a high five fashion. At the tail end of the Hammer Heads was Mr. Bridenbuagh working his way up the draft line.

Don and Kevin talked at great length about how to ride in a pack, along with other riding techniques. Carrie was close enough to also absorb the information.
A short cyclocross had everyone carrying their bikes across the RR tracks by Green Hope High School. Once back on the bikes Don took off as if he was Steve Cope on the last sprint home. Kevin was challenged to stay close enough to let Don know when the next turn was to take place.
The pack was guided back into the Preston Neighborhood for some last minute hills and scenery.

A great ride for first time road bike participants. They ended up riding one of the group’s standard 35 mile routes, including UPCHUCK. Very impressive, with an average speed of just below 15 mph.

We hope to see more of Don and Carrie on rides with the “Roses” and “Thorns”.

It turned out Steve pushed the pace for the CSH Hammer Heads on the way back from Lake Jordon. His attacks splintered the Hammer Heads and he was one of two left standing after the battle.
What an animal.

In the future Steve will need to ride his touring bike fully loaded if he is to ride with the “Thorns”.

March 7 and 8 2009 weekend rides

March 7, 2009

An organized ride to support the Brain Injury Association of North Carolina
Ride for the ROCK.
Kevin deals with 4 Assholes in Vehicles (yes he is a magnet for jerks in cars).
In attendance
Ron Clanton
Steve Cope
Jeffery Roussel
Kevin Smit
John Majikes
Theresa Smit
Jae Brainard

It was a beautiful day for a bike ride. Each rider in the group had specific agenda’s for the days ride. Ron and Kevin wanted to ride the 100k distance comfortably. Ron had also decided to ride to the start from his home. John Majikes showed up at the start and used the ride as his first long ride of the season. So he elected to join Ron and Kevin in attempting the ride at a comfortable pace. Jeffery Roussel had made the intelligent decision to do the 50k route as he had not been on his bike except for time spent indoors on a turbo trainer. Steve Cope was anxious to compare himself against the team riders that were using the 100k as a fast training ride. The racers all planned to work as a unit to drop any and all who dared to ride with them. Steve was up for the challenge. Jae Brainard had set the goal to complete a 60 mile ride sometime before her 60th birthday. The distance of 60 miles would also be the furthest she has ever ridden a bicycle. Theresa was planning on being Jae’s partner in her goal of accomplishing 60 miles.

Points of interest during the route.
Within the first several yards the group had splintered. Steve was off like a rocket. Ron and John both bolted from the parking lot. Jeffery was hot on their heals. Kevin was slow to leave the start line. Jae and Theresa deliberately let the madness of the mass start unfold before they put themselves on the streets of Cary and Apex.

Kevin found himself immediately ridding alone.
Within 2 miles Kevin saw Jeffery standing along the road side and yelled out to him. Kevin assumed Jeffery was looking for others to ride with. Kevin slowed in order for Jeffery to jump in and close the gap so they could ride together.

Kevin eventually caught up with Ron and John who had slowed to allow him to finally catch up, still no Jeffery.

The three rode the hills and busy roads of HollySprings and out towards Sharron Harris park and Nuclear plant. They made the first water stop at mile marker 17. Water bottles filled, ½ banana consumed, brief rest when Jeffery Roussel came swooping into the rest stop. The group learned that Jeffery had wrapped his chain around his rear derailleur at the point when Kevin saw him alongside the road. This explains why he did not close the gap on Kevin and the others until the first water stop. This stop was also the point of decision for 100k or 50k routes. All were still committed to their original plans. This resulted in Kevin, John, and Ron all head out on the 100k route and Jeffery all alone again as he chose the 50k route. It was learned later that Theresa and Jae made it to this first water stop just minutes after the group headed back onto the routes.

Ron, John, and Kevin all enjoyed the route from the first water stop to the turn onto Beaver Creek and the long fast run down it to highway 64. Beaver Creek has limited traffic, smooth road, limited hills, and is always a great place to push bigger gears at higher speeds.

The 3 stopped briefly at the gas station on Beaver Creek and Highway 64. Back on the bikes they continued across 64 and onto Farrington Road with another smooth fast run to Martha Chapel. Kevin had pulled away from Ron and John at that point and did not slow to allow the 3 to ride together. Instead Kevin continued to push the big chain ring up Martha Chapel, thru the left turn onto 751, continuing to press the gears and pace all the way to the last water stop at 751 and O’Kelley.

The rest stop provided an opportunity to get off the busy 751 and refill water bottles. Kevin, John, and Ron were again reunited at that water stop. John did not want to rest too long so he announced the departure of the group to Ron and Kevin who both responded by climbing onto their bikes.

O’Kelley is a hilly country road that normally has little automobile traffic. On this day however there was plenty of Traffic. Kevin was riding at the tail end of a small group of bikers with Ron and John slightly behind, as they all started to climb a steep hill. Kevin could see traffic coming from over the hill at the same time noticing a car coming from behind the group in his mirror. The car from behind was demonstrating an unwillingness to slow to allow for a safe sharing of the road by all. Kevin stuck out his left hand palm facing back in an effort to signal to the car to slow. The driver in the blue BMW was on his cell phone and paid no attention to the signal, the bikers, or the oncoming traffic. At that point Kevin yelled “Slow DOWN” as the driver slipped between the bikers and the oncoming traffic without slowing or indicating any recognition of the potential risk he had created for himself and others.

The route continued into Amberly and Cary Glen subdivisions then out onto Luter Shop and White Oak Church roads. A left at Green Level had the riders Zooming downhill to the right turn onto Green level Church and the dreaded climb up and onto Roberts Road. John and Ron and Kevin were all hanging together until the next turn onto Jenks. It was here that Kevin announced that he wanted to turn back and meet Theresa and Jae and finish the ride with them. John did not want to stop and had no plans to turn back. Ron and Kevin rested in the shade of an old oak tree while Kevin called Theresa to see where they were on the route and if they were planning to follow the route on into the finish. The ladies were doing great and were only a few miles behind. Kevin said goodbye to Ron as Kevin head towards the ladies and Ron headed for home.

Kevin met up with Jae and Theresa within 5 miles. All rode on together from that point. Kevin again had an altercation with yet another driver. Kevin was out in front of the ladies on Roberts road when a large green Ford panel truck passed the line of bikers almost forcing Jae off the road. There was no oncoming traffic at the time and no reason to crowd the cyclists. As the van passed by Kevin he slapped the side of the vehicle with the palm of his left hand. The driver and his female passenger drove on for just a few yards when suddenly the van stopped the driver door opened and the male driver leapt from the van. Kevin elected to swing to the left to great the driver as he was stepping out of the vehicle. “What was that for” yelled the driver as Kevin rode smoothly by. “Share the ROAD” was Kevin’s reply as he finished passing the vehicle and taking his spot again along the right hand side of the road.

Kevin was now again in front of the driver and was anticipating another angry maneuver by the driver. To his surprise the vehicle passed with plenty of room between bike and vehicle and with no additional attitude from driver or cyclist. Message delivered and understood.

The last 10 miles were the worst of the route. The bikers found themselves continually in the mix of heavy traffic on bad roads as they entered Cary, Apex, and back into Cary. The last 2 miles had the riders on Kildaire Road in construction zone that had 4 lanes jammed into 2. Kevin again found himself isolated from the other bikers just as the lanes narrowed. A long line of cars had already been working to maneuver around the trailing riders and now found themselves stacked up behind Kevin as he was heading down hill at speeds in excess of 30 mph. The speed limit on this section of road was not much more than the speed Kevin was traveling at. The road had no shoulder or white line and in fact had a raised curb that posed a hazard to the cyclists. This and the oncoming traffic made it impossible to provide for a safe passing zone for the next ½ mile. The car directly behind Kevin began to honk their horn as if to suggest Kevin should jump the curb and get out of their way. Kevin continued to hold his line and speed as he worked to get thru that section as rapidly as possible. The car behind continued to honk their horn Kevin continued to make progress to the end of the construction zone where all 4 lanes would allow for coexistence between bikes and cars. This entire episode lasted no more than 1 minute, forcing the vehicles to slow from 35 to 30 miles an hour for the time frame. As the lanes opened back up the White Chevy Suburban with female driver and female passenger raced passed Kevin and told him to “GET OFF THE ROAD”. Kevin blew them both a KISS. Now on 4 lanes there was plenty of room for cars and bikers, however a man in a black Chrysler 300m (gangster style body shape) on his cell phone decided to crowd Kevin and every other cyclist he could as he zoomed on passed each.

Ron Clanton was waiting at the end to congratulate Jae on her 60+ mile long ride. The group then enjoyed fine food prepared as part of the Whole Foods Deli and salad bar.

In all a nice day of biking, on a route that had far too much traffic, and more than normal number of ASSHOLE drivers.



Sunday March 8th.
Another great day of biking weather.
Those in attendance:
Jeffery Roussel
Steve Cope – Capn Carbon
Tim Devine – Fast Tim
Tim Travitz – Slow Tim
David Bridenbaugh – Mr. Bridenbaugh
Kevin Smit – GOG
Nicole Lewis
Patti Lewis
Jae Brainard
Theresa Smit

Day light savings time had just pushed clocks ahead one hour.
Today’s ride was going to be a mix of old routes cobbled together resulting in some degree of back tracking and unexpected turns. No one but Kevin knew the plan and he did not fully have a route in mind just the concept.

Out of the parking lot the group rode with limited layers of clothing. No longer did the riders look like the little boy from a Christmas Story all bundled up in layer upon layer and then encased in a full body suit resulting in an in ability to get up off the ground once fallen. Freedom was the theme. Freedom from layers of cloths, freedom from the work week, a sensation of freedom generated by the dry air breezes of the day and the warm glow of the sun. Freedom generated by not having a map of the route that laid ahead. Each rider knew the route would unfold as they progressed. No one challenged to know anymore than how far the group might be expected to ride. “I am thinking 35 to 40 miles today” Kevin willingly provided to the group. That was more than enough information for the riders. Trust has been built into the event as each rider now expects to be told just in time when the next turn will be. The riders respect the concept of being told at the last minute, having learned it is part of the technique used to keep the group together. It is also part of the game that is played on those who may leap on ahead only to see the pack turn at some intersection the lead pack may have blown past. This allows those that want to ride hard the ability to do so while keeping an eye on the pack. If needed the leading group may find they have to sprint back to make the turn the pack did behind them. This allows for extra miles and extra effort from those more capable. It also challenges those in the back of the back to keep up so they can watch the leaders scramble to get back to the group having gone astray earlier. All part of providing something for everyone, attacks, speed play, surprises, periods of recovery, pace lines, banter, fun and, the No Drop Policy of the group.

The riders had a solid pace line right from the start. This carried into the Preston neighborhood and out onto Carpenter Church road. It was at the turn onto Ron’s Pull when the first command was provided. Mr Bridenbaugh was already headed down Ron’s Pull when Kevin used hand signals to let those paying attention know that the route would go the opposite direction than Mr. Bridenbaugh was traveling. The pack could not contain themselves and laughed loudly as they all jumped thru the intersection and raced on away from Mr. Bridenbaugh. Before the pack made it 2 blocks David charged back into the pack showing his approval of being tricked.

Kevin then presented the second surprise of the day after having made the right turn onto high house. Normally at that point the group would make an immediate left turn and head towards Apex or Holt. Today Kevin held a straight line on past the turn as he continued on High House towards Highway 55. This entire length of High house no one pushed past Kevin to take the lead having just been surprised twice early in the ride. Once past Highway 55 the pack continued on straight on HighHouse. Kevin was deliberately drifting back into the pack as he planned another surprise turn. Mr. Bridnbaugh was again out in front as he assumed the route continued straight where High House becomes Green Level. Wrong again Mr. Bridenbaugh. Kevin swept right onto Glenmore drive and into the neighborhood between High House and Green Hope High school road. Again Mr. Bridenbaugh jumped the gap to get back into the pack with everyone again enjoying the game that had just been played. The route wound around in the neighborhood until finally exiting from Sears road onto Green Hope High School road. A left had the pack headed in the opposite direction normally ridden on this section since may times the road would typically be at the end of a ride headed home rather than the beginning headed out. No one challenged Kevin’s lead spot even though there were no viable turns until the end of the road at the T intersection. Even then everyone was waiting to see what Kevin was up to. Many expected to turn right and follow familiar roads towards Lake Jordan, however Kevin again felt the Freedom of making up as they went and elected to direct everyone to make a left onto Green Level Church Road.

This section of Green Level has had a great deal of construction vehicles on it resulting in a very rough ride for the cyclists. This section of road also travels past the spot where 3 seasons ago Steve Cope smacked GOG in the mouth breaking his front tooth. For more information on that see BLOG POSTING
http://trailsandtrib.blogspot.com/2006/08/dont-mess-with-cope.html


At Green Level Church and Green Level West the pack was instructed to turn right onto Green Level West. Several riders were well warmed up at this point and itching to attack. Fast Tim, Mr. Bridenbaugh, and Steve Cope all jumped into the lead. The group splintered as the 3 lead riders all pushed the pace uphill towards the potential turn at White Oak Church. The lead riders all slowed at the crest of the hill waiting for Kevin to announce the next direction. As the pack glided over the crest Fast Tim began to commit himself to the turn onto White Oak. Kevin seeing this said nothing but coasted on past continuing his route on Green level and the hills that lay ahead. Mr. Bridenbaugh, Capn Carbon, and Fast Tim all attacked again pushing on past Kevin and to the two big hills that lay ahead. Kevin maintained a steady speed in an effort to allow the remaining 4 to regroup. He was followed closely by Nicole, Slow Tim, and Jeffery. On ahead Mr. Bridenbaug and Capn Carbon were doing their best to punish anyone who was trying to stay with them. Slow Tim was the first to drop off later followed by Mr. Bridenbaugh. Kevin and his small band of cyclists eventually overtook Slow Tim just as they crested the last hill in that series of climbs on Green Level.
Capn Carbon and Mr. Bridenbaugh were circling at the intersection of Green level and Luther not clear if they would be directed down Luther or continue on Green Level. Kevin made the left turn onto Luther with Nicole, and Slow Tim in tow. The group waited briefly and consumed water as Jeffery was only seconds behind.

Jeffery did not stop but glided on past the group as he headed down Luther. Realizing that he may have just set himself up to have to reverse course and chase the pack down he was seen making a u turn to await the commands from Kevin. As Jeffery glided back to the pack Kevin mounted his bike and pointed himself in the direction that Jeffery had earlier committed to forcing Jeffery to again make another u-turn and return to his previous direction selection.

The pack was together again as Kevin checking his rear view mirror announced “Riders Back”. Two
Tri-assholettes in their telltale crouched over posture were closing in on the group.
The pack picked up the pace immediately in anticipation of being overtaken and in consideration of grabbing on to the rear wheels of the Tri-assholettes. The two riders were not drafting each other in classic Tri-assholette independent fashion as they swung wide to prevent anyone from the pack or THORNS to latch on. All watched as these two moved on by with no one jumping into their draft.

Without a word the THORNS formed a draft line. Pace was intensified, no words were spoken as everyone’s radar was now focused forwards. The pack caught to two Tri-assholettes just as the road drops into a valley followed by the steepest climb on Luther. Several riders jockeyed for position in anticipation of the attack that was about to unfold during the climb up ahead. At this same time a line of traffic was traveling towards the frey from the opposite direction. Kevin was trapped behind the female Tri-assholette and was working to get out around her as the traffic closed in. Just then she drifted right to create a cushion between her and the oncoming traffic. Kevin had spotted a gap to her right just as her maneuver closed it. Without hesitation Kevin adjusted his plan and swung left to shoot the gap she created between her and the oncoming traffic. Kevin then had to dart back right to avoid the biggest truck on the road at the time. He timed it beautifully but in doing so forced the female riders to slow. Kevin was a jerk by cutting her off but the attack for the hill was just beginning to unfold. The male Tri-assholette had made the first move with a gap between him and Capn Carbon already established. Mr. Bridenbaugh was not far behind Capn Carbon, with Slow Tim, Nicole, and Fast Tim all lined up to take a shot at the hill. Jeffery was smartly watching the chaos unfold in front of him. Kevin was working to keep the downhill momentum alive as he was now timing his surprise attack (does he stay in the big chain ring and stand, or shift and spin). Kevin continued to watch and measure his effort. He was already sliding into position just behind and to the left of Capn Carbon as the momentum from the downhill was now gone and the decision to stand or shift and spin was at critical mass.
Steve was measuring his own effort and had full concentration of the lead Tri-assholette. There was still 2/3 of the climb ahead and Steve was calculating when he would put the hammer down on the lead rider.
Just then Kevin swept past Steve and the lead rider. Kevin was still in the saddle as he heard Capn Carbon chuckle with great delight. A new target had been established and Capn Carbon no longer had to calculate when to attack. Instinct prevailed and like a leopard pouncing on its pray Steve was out of the saddle and about to pounce on GOG. Kevin’s rpms began to slow as he chose not to shift and spin. This forced him out of the saddle in an effort to match the pressure demand of the hill and the big chain ring. “HE HE HE” was all Kevin heard as he fell pray to Capn Carbon. Sit Shift and Spin was all that was left for GOG as he rolled over the crest of the hill to see Capn Carbon already down the back side and half way up the next hill.

A quick right onto 751 and the first left onto Horton Pond had the group split. Capn Carbon was now riding with the TriAssholettes working to see if they had any social skills, while he rode comfortably next to them and provided propping questions that broke their single focus. GOG, Nicole, the two Tims and Jeffery were all scattered in the distance as each rolled onto Horton Pond. Again without a word the trailing group formed a pace line with Fast Tim (The Love Train) in the pull position. Fast Tim took full command as he ratcheted up the pace. Everyone in tow understood their roll and worked to keep the gap between them and the rider ahead to a minimum. 15 mph turned quickly into 17 which then jumped to 19 mph UP HILL. The LOVE TRAIN was now a full power, and the Triassholettes and Capn Carbon were now much closer on the horizon. Spurred by the site of the riders silhouettes growing larger the LOVE TRAIN poured more coal into the boiler, Steam was bellowing out, the wind rushing buy sounded much like a trains whistle. Now climbing the longest and steepest climb of Horton Pond the LOVE TRAIN and his entourage swept past the lead group swallowing them up as a tidal wave swallows up the shore line.

The pack of riders were now all together with at least half of Horton Pond yet to be traveled. A monumental Pull by the LOVE TRAIN was recognized by all in the group. Kevin took the time to also apologize to the female TriAssholette for having cut her off earlier on the hill attack on Luther.

At the end of Horton Pond the pack, still intact, made the sweeping right hand turn onto Farrington Road with Kevin taking the reins. Kevin was trying to calculate the next turn. Would it be Holland Chapel and then the short run back into Cary, or continue down to Martha Chapel and some extra miles.
Looking in his mirror he assessed each of the riders to make a judgment call on can they (he) do more miles or does he take them back home now. The pack rushed past Holland Chapel at speeds over 21 mph. Looks like Kevin plans to push the pace and add extra miles.

The pace line was still in effect as they entered the section of road known as “Kevin’s Crawl” however they were traveling down the road in the opposite direction than normal. Kevin was still in the pull position so we would have to name this section of Farrington+ from Holland Chapel to Martha Chapel as
“lwarC s’neviK”. Once at Martha Chapel the pack slowed momentarily as they made the turn up the road towards 751. Capn Carbon and GOG were riding side by side with all others in tow. Capn Carbon was visiting with GOG however GOG was still trying to recover from the earlier pull and could only nod his head or grunt in between gulps of air. The pace on Martha Chapel was just under 20 mph as the pack climbed up from Lake Jordan to Highway 751.

At 751 everyone was looking again for Kevin to provide the direction notification. Without uttering a sound Kevin swung left onto 751 headed away from the strawberry patch. This is a twist from what was expected to be the run towards home. Kevin again took the pull position and ramped up the speeds to over the 20 mph mark. He continued to lead the pack up to the crest of the hill were Mount Pisgah connects to 751. Here Kevin directed the riders to make the right turn onto the rolling hills of Mount Pisgah. Kevin was spent and immediately fell off the pace. Slow Tim, Capn Carbon, Nicole, and Mr. Bridenbaugh all sped past without looking back to see who if anyone else was in tow. Kevin was joined by Fast Tim (The LOVE TRAIN) and Jeffery. The three rode on at a more comfortable 15 mph climbing each hill as it presented itself to them. The others were now over 100 yards ahead with the gap widening with each revolution of the pedals. Kevin wanted to direct the pack to make the next right turn and ultimately bring everyone pack into Cary through the Hills of Cary Glenn known to the group as “Nicole’s Roller Coaster”.

Just as the lead group was about to pass the turn Slow Tim looked back to check on the 3 trailing riders. Kevin signaled to Slow Tim to make the right turn. Slow Tim turned his head and continued on straight with the rest of his lead group. Kevin and his two team mates made the right turn as the lead group disappeared in the distance now on a separate path.

This split in direction remained in effect as neither group was about to turn around and chase after the other. All riders knew where they were and the routes that would bring them back home.

Kevin and the crew with him did “Nicole’s Roller Coaster” and expected to see the other group somewhere on Carpenter Church Fire Station Road. This did not happen as the lead group never hesitated to see what might have happened to the trailing pack. Instead the lead group consisting of Slow Tim, Capn Carbon, Nicole, and Mr. Bridenbaugh put the hammer down and raced towards the finish line putting them well ahead of the others.

A great day of riding with lots of Freedom on the road.
Thorns did 35 miles at 16+ mph average.