This write up has been provided by Steve Cope - "Capn Carbon" who has always been there even when Kevin and Theresa have not.
Thank You Steve for this detailed write up.
and I quote.
Big turnout (15 or so) Saturday because everyone heard you would not be there to slow the group down. We rode 52 miles at 18.6 mph which I believe is a new record. The ride went out to Lystra gas station and then across Big Woods. We hooked up with several other ride groups at Wilsonville and everyone was chit chatting. Then we went down to Martha's Chapel and back home. I must report that Josh beat me to the county line by an inch to make it 3 in a row. The big news was there were several appearances from yester-year including Robert Plant, John Majikus, and Earnest! Earnest is only there to USE us once again for his Blood Sweat and Gears training and then I will bet he disappears into the woods with his mountain bike for another year. Nicole brought out more horsepower from NC State. This time we were joined by State's cycling team coach - Shawn who is a former road racer and PRO duathelete. I figure this makes him a 2/3rds triassholete. There was also another young buck who gave me a run on Capn's Graveyard. Also attending from Sanford was Bob (friend's of Suzanne) who leads the CBC brewery rides. He rode once before last year. The regulars included Slow Todd, Slow Todd's triassholeete friend (name?), Slow Tim, Josh, Suzanne, Pat, and others that I have surely forgot. The Roses were led by Jae and I forgot who else joined her??? I do know they were nipping at our heels all the way through Ron's Pull.
On Sunday, Slow Tim, Josh, and I met for coffee and decided to head up to street and join Cycles Broken Here. As 8:30 approached, Sarah and 2 other of Tri Todd's Lady Triassholetes arrived and had plotted out their own "Stem" ride. Their intent was to talk more than ride.
Major announcements include Sarah winning her age division in the Wood Lake Triathlon on Saturday and Josh took 6th place at the State Criterium Championships on Sunday in Fayetteville.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Weekend rides of May 16 and 17
Satuday May 16th.
“Thorns”, “Stems”, and “Roses” the group grows in numbers and ability.
The day started of overcast and cool with the sun poking out during the last hour of the ride.
The start of the ride had 20 riders poised to enjoy the day.
Those in attendance riding with the “Roses”
Sheila Augustine
Lori Brogdert (hoping I spelled the last name correctly) – rode to the start on her bike
Andy Brogdert – rode to the start on his bike
Beth Gonzalez
Theresa Smit
Those in attendance riding with the “Thorns and Stems”
Kirsten Hawkins – rode to the start on her bike
Steve Cope – “Capn Carbon”
Todd Spain – “TriTodd”
Todd Pechner – “Slow Todd” – rode to the start on his bike
Dayn McBee – rode to the start on his bike
Suzanne MCBee
Doug Augustine
Kevin Smit – “GOG”
Christy Miller – “Pink Triassolete” – rode to the start on her bike
Jeffery Roussel – “Down Hill Racer” – rode to the start on his bike
James Lawn – First time riding with the group (young whipper snapper from NC State)
Shawn Richardson – another first timer with the group and also a young whipper snapper from NC State.
Nicole Lewis – A New Graduate of NC state. (WAHOO NICOLE) also a young whipper snapper – she introduced both James and Shawn to the group
Dan Bakley – First time with the group – “Slow Todd” introduced him to the group. – rode to the start on his bike.
Davin Perkins - back riding with the group after being off the bike for a full season.
Prior to the start Kirsten had made mention of a time constraint she had needing to be back by 10:30 am. Kevin then solicited the group to find anyone else who may have a similar time constraint. Davin needed to return early as did Suzanne, and TriTodd. With that information Kevin suggested that they all start and ride together and those that needed to return early would be pointed in a straight route home allowing them to return in time.
The ride had a smooth comfortable start as everyone worked to introduce themselves to the first timers and to welcome back those who have been off their bikes for a while. The “Thorns”, “Stems”, and “Roses” all remained together through the Preston Neighborhood and to the intersection of Carpenter Upchurch and Lewis Stevens. At that intersection the “Roses” turned right and headed down “RON’S PULL” while the “Thorns” and “Stems” headed left into the hills of Jenks Carpenter and the climb up to Holt. The pack was poorly formed with the usual characters pushing for position in anticipation of the first attack expected at the climb up to Holt. This action splintered the group initially with “Down Hill Racer”, “Capn Carbon”, Davin, Doug Augusting, “Pink Triassolete”, all three young whipper snappers all forming the lead group as they charged down the hill towards the pending climb. Those more relaxed and confident of their skills held back to enjoy the spectacle and to time their response to the hill. Then suddenly in response to his jittery nature “Slow Todd” exploded out of the trailing group to jump the gap to the leading group. The hill scattered the group with each rider doing their best to match the challenge presented by gravity and the gradient of the hill. At about the half way point into the climb Dayn was seen passing “GOG” and as he did so he reached out and gave “GOG” a shove to the side, then with a smile he danced on up the hill as if to say “Catch me if you Can”. “GOG” was already close to maxing out his abilities and could only smile back.
Once at the top of Holt the group was directed to make the right towards Highway 55. The short run on Holt had the pack falling into a single file pace line which quickly gapped into two single file pace lines.
The group made is safely across highway 55 and again formed into single file gapped pace lines. The lead group was configured with the young whipper snappers, “Capn Carbon”, “Down Hill Racer”, “Dayn”, “TriTodd”, “Slow Todd”. This configuration remained for most of the day forming the “Thorns” in the lead and the trailing group now dubbed the “Stems”. The “Stems” enjoyed the ride as they carried on conversation and a comfortable yet challenging pace. At this point in the ride those riding as “Stems” included; “Pink Triassolete”, Davin, Dan, Doug, Suzanne, Kirsten, and “GOG”. The two groups rode on past the turn at Roberts and thru the stop at Jenks to the right turn onto Wimberly. Once on Wimberly the two groups formed again however “GOG’s” mass was great enough that the acceleration downhill, due to gravity’s pull on his mass, allowed him to coast thru the gap and join the “Thorns” for a brief moment. As he passed the “Stems” and some of the “Thorns” he was heard singing the praises of gravity and the joy for that moment of possessing great mass.
“GOG” was then passed by everyone as he was lamenting about having great Mass and the drag that Gravity imposes. At the very front of the “Thorns” “Capn Carbon” and Shawn were seen sparing each other to see who was the dominant “Thorn” on the climb.
All found themselves next at the left turn onto Green Level and its two hills. As these next two hills unfolded the pack was found emulating the motion of a Slinky as it makes its way down a set of stairs.
The left turn onto Luther from Green Level had the pack pause very briefly to grab some water and assess everyone’s condition. The pack was off again headed towards Lake Jordan or where ever it was Kevin had planned for the day’s route. “Capn Carbon”, Shawn, Dayn, “Slow Todd”, and “Down Hill Racer” all continued to challenge one another with each and every hill. Luther eventually ended at highway 751 forcing the pack into the right turn onto 751. It was here that those needing to head home early said their goodbyes. The early birds continued on 751 to the berry patch and the turn onto Luter Shop that lead straight back home. They were led by “TriTodd” and Suzanne, as Kirsten, Davin, and Dan all headed back. The remaining “Thorns” and “Stems” made the left turn onto Horton Pond and its rolling hills.
The group splintered into the two right from the start. The “Thorns” light it up with Dayn, “Slow Todd”, “Down Hill Racer”, Shawn, James, and “Capn Carbon” charging forward. “GOG”, “Pink Triassolete”, Doug, and Nicole worked together to push their own pace line. At the end of Horton Pond the “Thorns” were found circling waiting for the “Stems” to arrive and for “GOG” to indicate the next turn. Many were anticipating a right hand turn that would lead to Lake Jordan and Lystra. “GOG” however rolled thru the intersection and drifted left onto Farrington pointed towards Highway 64 and the many possible variations available for the remainder of the route.
It did not take the pack long to run down “GOG” and then roll on past him. The pack was found circling in the gas station parking lot at the corner of Highway 64 and Farrington. “Where do plan on the route going” Dayn asked. “GOG” pondered the best reply. If he informs Dayn of the intended route then that would be the last time anyone would see Dayn and others who would enjoy hammering the rest of the route. If “GOG” does not inform Dayn then Dayn and the other Hammer Heads would get very frustrated having to slow and circle at all intersection as they waited for “GOG” and the slower riders.
“OK, I was planning on a totally new section of roads for the group”, “take 64 towards Big Woods, however do NOT turn right, instead make a left away from BIG WOODS”. “At the next intersection make a right onto N Pea Ridge and following it back to 64”. “Then cross 64 and continue until you hit 15/501”. “Once there turn right onto 15/501 and take it to Jack Bennet and then onto Farrington and then on into the finish”.
“GOG” had just given out the entire last 2/3rds of the day’s route to the Hammer Heads.
They all lit it up and powered down Highway 64 to the left turn at Big Woods. Those remaining to form the trailing group of riders were “GOG”, Nicole, “Pink Triassolete”, Doug, and James. The Hammerheads were quickly out of site even as the trailing group road at 21 mph down highway 64.
At the turn the “Thorns” elected to circle again allowing all riders to regroup as they now found themselves on roads not yet traveled in prior rides by the group. The pace was slowed with all staying together until the last downhill and the stop sign signaling the next turn. The “Thorns” now confident they were on the correct path jumped into the right turn and again challenged anyone to hang with them if they could. This group of Hammer Heads was beginning to splinter with “Slow Todd”, and “Down Hill Racer” falling off the pace and riding in the no-mans land between the “Thorns” and “Stems”.
Again the “Thorns” were found circling at the location where N. Pea Ridge and Highway 64 meet. “GOG” was beginning to feel the effects of not having been on the bike for more than once in the last two weeks and asked the group to make a brief stop after crossing the highway. As “GOG” bent over in an effort to get blood back to his head and reduce the dizziness “Capn Carbon” was suggesting that the group all ride Lystra. He wanted to introduce the new riders to the joys of riding up Lystra. “The only way to accomplish that is to first get to the bottom of Lystra before attempting the climb” informed “GOG”. “Yea, we can do that” cried “Capn Carbon” as his excitement of climbing Lystra mounted.
The group was now ready to head back onto the road. This section of road is a continuation of N. Pea Ridge, however it changes it name on this side of Highway 64 to Mt Gilead Church Road. The group again splintered into two with the “Stems” now growing in size by the addition of “Slow Todd” and “Down Hill Racer”. The run down Mt Gilead was not flat and the sun was now coming out in full force.
Again the “Thorns” were found waiting at the corner of 15/501 to confirm the directions as “GOG” had explained way back on Farrington and Highway 64. “GOG” found it interesting that the “Thorns” still elected to race and then wait for the others in an effort to keep the group somewhat intact.
“OK who wants to ride up Lystra” “Capn Carbon” was asking. “Only Dumb Asses” was “GOGs” reply.
That is all that was need for Dayn, “Capn Carbon” and Shawn to elect to do Lystra. “We will all wait at the gas station on Lystra and Farrington for you Dumb Asses to do your extra climb” was the command from “GOG”.
The riders all set off onto 15/501 to locate the right turn onto Jack Bennet and the long downhill it would provide. “Down Hill Racer” lived up to his name as he made an initial attempt to better his fasted downhill speed. The days head wind soon put a damper on his attempt to reach 50 mph. The rest of the pack was stung all along the length of the downhill as each attacked or coasted at their own comfort level. “GOG” was firmly in the rear even with gravity and his mass working together to catapult him down hill. At about the half way point an ASSHOLE in a while Chevy pickup truck with Dulles
And wide mirrors decided to see how close he could get to each of the riders. He did not slow his speed or move over to allow for safe passage even when other cars were coming up the hill in the opposite direction. On at least one occasion he forced the oncoming car to swing onto the shoulder as they met.
Once safely at the bottom of the hill the pack reformed, although without “Capn Carbon”, Dayn, and Shawn who all headed for the climb up Lystra (DUMB ASSES). The others rode comfortably on to the Gas Station at Lystra and Farrington to rest, get a bio break, wait for the DUMB ASSES, and fill empty water bottles. “GOG” purchased a gallon of Ice Cold Water to share with the group, allowing everyone to top off their water bottles. “Down Hill Racer” needed to get back so he took off solo with the expectation that he may be caught by part of the pack towards the finish. Within a few minutes the DUMB ASSES arrived having just attacked the Lystra hill. Nicole asked “Capn Carbon” if he needed to use the LITTLE GIRLS ROOM just as two guys were walking past. They looked at each other and then at “Capn Carbon” and started to chuckle.
As soon as the DUMB ASSES had filled their water bottles “Capn Carbon” was heard saying “Are we riding or What”.
Everyone scrambled to get there gloves, and helmets back on so they would not be holding up the DUMB ASSES any longer than needed.
Back onto Farrington headed towards Lake Jordan and the turn at Martha Chapel the hammer heads were already lighting it up once again. They had generated such a gap that the trailing riders were just reaching the edge of Lake Jordan as the DUMB ASSES were already onto Martha Chapel. It was at that point that Dayn turned to “Capn Carbon” and was heard saying “I should hold up and ride part of the ride with Kevin since it is his ride”. Upon looking back and seeing the huge gap Dayn then commented “Aw what the heck lets go” and with that the Hammer Heads lit it up again never to be seen by the rest of the group until the finish.
The surviving riders finished the ride following the most direct and flattest route possible. With 4 mile to the finish “GOG” fell off the pace and found it a struggle to manage 12 mph.
Once at the end the group learned that Shawn made a great showing for himself by hanging with the big boys only to crack slightly at the end. Dayn and “Capn Carbon” never took the pressure off the entire ride. The “Thorns” and “Stems” finished 54 miles at a 17 mph pace. The “Roses” completed 35 miles at a 15+ mph pace.
Josh Carter – “Moving Violation” showed up while everyone was loading up their bikes to head for home. He could not ride earlier and was now planning to head out for a ride on his own. “Capn Carbon” elected to go back out and ride with Josh. This gave “Capn Carbon” and additional 30 miles for a total of 80+ for the day. GET A LIFE !
Sunday May 17
Wet What the Heck.
Those in attendance representing the “Roses”
Andy Brogdert
Lori Brogdert
Theresa Smit
Those in attendance representing the “Thorns”
Steve Cope – “Capn Carbon”
Josh Carter – “Moving Violation”
Tim Divinney – “The Love Train”, “Fast Tim”
Kevin Smit – “GOG”
The threat of rain was all around. Doppler Radar suggested it was about to get worse.
The group elected to head out thinking to do a shorter ride to be done prior to the rain.
In looking at the Doppler radar it appeared that the storms were further away if the group headed towards Apex rather than the normal Lake Jordan area. So “GOG” was quickly putting a route together in his head that would take the “Thorns” into Apex and then any number of routes back towards home.
The group swung onto High House and into the Preston Neighborhood. Nice slow start with the pack riding in a slight mist as they exited the roundabout in Preston and into the intersection at Carpenter Upchurch road. It was at this spot that the “Roses” elected to turn right towards familiar roads and the “Thorns” turned left towards Apex and any number of routes possible in that direction.
The mist was not increasing and in fact was letting up as the “Thorns” worked their way thru Cary and into down town Apex. “Wahoo looks like we will have dry roads and cool temps” was the joyful comment from “GOG”. Within the length of Old Salem road the Mist had returned and included brief drops of rain. Just as the group slowed for the stop light on North Salem and Highway 55 the riders could see that the road up ahead was WET, and in fact the air up ahead appeared to have a fuzzy haze about its appearance. No one mentioned it but they all saw the clear demarcation of dry and NOT DRY.
No hesitation from the group as all riders cleared thru the intersection and headed towards the pending dampness.
SPLASH.
Just as the group of cyclists reached the left hand turn onto Tingen the Humidity reached the total saturation point. No one wanted to turn back with the fun filled fast Tingen lying just ahead.
“Capn Carbon” jumped on the pedals and cracked the pace up immediately pulling the entire length of Tingen at speeds of 28 mph. “GOG” was working desperately to hold on. The rain in the face plus the spray from the rear tires, not to mention “GOGS” sweat in his eyes made it very challenging to see. The spray forced each trailing rider to slide off the rear wheel slightly putting the spray just at the side of the riders face and reducing the effect of a draft from the bike ahead. The group formed more of a tight echelon than a peloton. As the rolling hills of Tingen loomed the pack splintered with each rider working their best to meet the challenge of each of the climbs. And again it was “GOG” bringing up the rear.
At the corner of Tingen and Friendship the group stopped long enough to express the fun each had in the rain and on Tingen. The group also discussed the fact that “The Love Train” was missing from the ride Saturday due to his Choir practice. The group then learned he sings in Latin in Church’s. The group then asked if he had to sign a waiver promising not to defile or deface any religious objects or deities, and that he would not sing cuss words in Latin. A brief chuckle was had by all.
The rain had again stopped and the pack was directed to make the left turn towards Sharen Harris. As the group rolled on down the road the Rain returned with an even greater force. No sense in turning back now since all were as wet as they could get. “GOG” did decide to alter the route slightly with the intention of reducing the miles normally expected on this particular route. As Kevin was redrawing the route in his head the pack of cyclists continued their 19+ mph pace towards the intersection of Friendship and New Hill Holleman Road.
It was at that intersection that Kevin altered the route. Normally the group would turn left however today in the rain they were directed to make a right turn onto New Hill Holleman. This road is usually busy with traffic but today the traffic was almost nonexistent. This was a good thing since the road is also filled with pot holes that on today’s ride were now small lakes to be avoided at all costs. The group did a good job of working together announcing and then avoiding the potential pit falls that could be lying just beneath the surface. The direction on New Hill Holleman is also pocked with several hills much like the one in the last few miles of Tingen Road. As the group headed back towards Cary and Apex “The Love Train” asked “ you are not planning on taking us back into Apex on Olive Chapel Road are you?”. “NOPE, I have a much better route planned” was “GOG’s” reply. “BLESS YOU, I hate the hills on that road” was the immediate response from “The Love Train”. “ I do not have a clue where I am” was heard coming from “Capn Carbon”. “We were on this road Wednesday night” was the information supplied by “Moving Violation”, in his effort to help the always navigationally challenged “Capn Carbon”. This bit of information only made “Capn Carbon” more confused. The rain was now a steady downpour.
Half way up the longest climb of that section of the route on a curve “GOG” checked his mirror and craned his neck to look ahead into the curve before signaling the left turn onto Tody Goodwin.
The pack made a smooth turn onto this section of road with “Capn Carbon” and “Moving Violation” increasing the pace on the slight incline. The pack was spurred along at 21 mph up and over each of the rolling hills. The rain had subsided for now and remained that way the entire length of their run to the next T intersection at Beaver Dam Road. Once at the intersection the group again took a very brief pause allowing “GOG” to waddle up to the group. There were also two riders seen approaching the intersection from Beaver Dam Road and headed towards Highway 64. This was the direction the group was about to take as well.
“GOG” rolled on thru the intersection and onto Beaver Dam knowing that if he stopped at all “Capn Carbon” would be heard asking “What are we riding or what?”. The pace again reached 21 mph as the group closed in on Highway 64 and the roads leading towards home. At that intersection “Capn Carbon” pulled off into the parking lot at the gas station only to notice that “GOG” had again rolled into the intersection keeping his momentum from reaching a complete stop. Without hesitation “Capn Carbon” did a quick u-turn and bolted to the front of the pace line in an effort to encourage “GOG” into adding to momentum rather than coasting and losing any momentum. Now thru the intersection with “Capn Carbon” in the pull position the pace was again ratcheting up to and over 21 mph. “GOG” was focused on keeping as tight to “Capn’s” rear wheel as possible. This lasted only a short while as the pace remained in the low 20 mph range even as the road began to rise slightly in elevation. “I can’t Hold on, Sorry” was the cry from “GOG” as he slid to the outside allowing “The Love Train” and “Moving Violation” to fill into the prime drafting spots. “GOG” was now a solo rider once again only to be brought back into the pack after they coasted uphill towards the turn onto Holland Chapel Road. The rain was still holding off as the group made the turn towards Cary.
“I thought for sure you were going to chase down those two riders ahead of us” Josh was heard calling out to Steve. “What riders ahead of us” was Steve’s confused reply. “The ones we talked to back on Beaver Dam Road” was the frustrated comeback from “The Love Train”.
Clearly “Capn Carbon” does not know where he is, does not remember things even after a brief moment, and only has one speed – FAST ALL THE TIME.
After that brief bit of banter the group took off again remaining together the entire length of Holland Chapel thru the short right and left turn onto Luter Shop the pack road just fast enough to keep “GOG” within the pace line.
“GOG” knew that soon he would be riding solo again as the sprint for the County Line lay only a mile or two away. Sure enough the pace multiplied as each rider (not “GOG”) made a play to try and tire the others out just prior to the sprint. From a distance “GOG” saw the sprint unfold with JOSH CARTER – “MOVING VIOLATION” taking the county line sprint victory from STEV COPE _ “Capn Carbon”. That is two days in a row that “Moving Violation” has beaten “Capn Carbon” on the sprint to the county line.
With the sprint behind them all riders settled into a more reasonable pace again allowing “GOG” to remain in the pack.
Now contemplating the finishing route path “GOG” suggested they ride into Cary Glenn and “Nicole’s Roller Coasters”. In a surprised tone “Capn Carbon” was heard asking “Are you sure you want to do the extra miles and hills?”. “GOG” was not dead yet.
Just as the pack was directed into the neighborhood the skies darkened. “YEA I figured we could do a few more miles and hills and do them in pouring rain” was the smart ass remark from “GOG”.
Into the 3 climbs, the riders accelerated. Just prior to the last long climb out of the neighborhood the storm front hit dropping the temperature all at once. “GOG” was expecting snow any minute as the pack exited Cary Glenn and turned onto Carpenter Fire Station road. The group again altered their pace allowing for “GOG” to hang on as part of the pack. They all hit the green light at highway 55 and rolled onto the turn onto Carpenter Upchurch. This is the section of road that “Capn Carbon” makes sure he dominates and lays claim to demolishing any and all riders that are still in the pack with him. In the direction back towards the finish this section of road is known to the group as “Capn’s Grave Yard” as he buries all who try to hang with him. This section of road headed in the opposite direction is known to the group as “Ron’s Pull” for his monumental acceleration and pull during the early phases of a ride.
The pack was now falling in line behind “Capn” in an effort to see how long they would hang before being buried. “GOG” was in the tail position still working to recover from his earlier efforts to survive the days ride. Just as “Capn” started applying physical abuse upon the pack “GOG” was working to replace his water bottle into the cage when it slipped from his tired hands and rolled across the road.
Too add insult to injury the Rain was back and adding to the physical abuse. The ride leaders were then found circling back to see if Kevin was ok as he also was circling to go back and recover his water bottle that had now rolled into the ditch on the other side of the road.
Once the water bottle was back in its cage the pack was off to finish the last 2 – 4 miles in the rain.
“Capn Carbon” took little time to leave the group in his wake. All made the green lights thru High House and into the fast downhill towards Cary Parkway.
“GOG” again well behind the pack was working to time his move into the left lane for the pending turn into the Brueggers parking lot. The pack was several yards up ahead, a line of cars were passing on the left, a gap in the cars was forming just at the right time for “GOG” to signal and move left while a car was barring down directly behind him in the right lane. Just as “GOG” made his signal and was already well committed to the left lane the car behind decided to also move into the left lane. “GOG” and car were now intimately close with the car’s horn blowing and “GOG” waving thank you. The pack up ahead saw that “GOG” had set the stage for all to now enter the left lane and set up for the turn into the finish.
“Man I thought you were a hood ornament” was the quick comment from “Capn”. “I have no clue why that guy changed lanes into my lane after I had signaled and made my move” was the only reply from “GOG” as he too was convinced he was close being a hood ornament.
With the rain still coming down the riders rolled up to their vehicles and began to tear down the bikes for transport via car.
Theresa was found sitting in their car as she waited and waited and waited on Kevin.
“You said you guys would do a short ride maybe 30 miles at the most, I have been waiting for hours, what were you thinking riding in the rain, it is not safe”.
“The Roses were smart enough to turn back once the rain began”
“we only did 11 miles”
“ Why didn’t you call me”.
Kevin just stood there and took the verbal attack knowing there was no justification for having as much fun as they all had just had.
In an effort to help soften the attack from Theresa each of the other riders had comments like.
“Best ride ever”
“Great route let’s do that again soon”
“Riding in the rain was a Hoot”
“Thanks Kevin for a fantastic ride”
Kevin only stood there in the rain waiting for his punishment and to delay having to get in the car where he and Theresa could continue her scolding of him.
The “Thorns” rode 44 miles IN THE RAIN at an average of 17 mph.
And had a lot of fun doing it.
Join them next time in the rain.
“Thorns”, “Stems”, and “Roses” the group grows in numbers and ability.
The day started of overcast and cool with the sun poking out during the last hour of the ride.
The start of the ride had 20 riders poised to enjoy the day.
Those in attendance riding with the “Roses”
Sheila Augustine
Lori Brogdert (hoping I spelled the last name correctly) – rode to the start on her bike
Andy Brogdert – rode to the start on his bike
Beth Gonzalez
Theresa Smit
Those in attendance riding with the “Thorns and Stems”
Kirsten Hawkins – rode to the start on her bike
Steve Cope – “Capn Carbon”
Todd Spain – “TriTodd”
Todd Pechner – “Slow Todd” – rode to the start on his bike
Dayn McBee – rode to the start on his bike
Suzanne MCBee
Doug Augustine
Kevin Smit – “GOG”
Christy Miller – “Pink Triassolete” – rode to the start on her bike
Jeffery Roussel – “Down Hill Racer” – rode to the start on his bike
James Lawn – First time riding with the group (young whipper snapper from NC State)
Shawn Richardson – another first timer with the group and also a young whipper snapper from NC State.
Nicole Lewis – A New Graduate of NC state. (WAHOO NICOLE) also a young whipper snapper – she introduced both James and Shawn to the group
Dan Bakley – First time with the group – “Slow Todd” introduced him to the group. – rode to the start on his bike.
Davin Perkins - back riding with the group after being off the bike for a full season.
Prior to the start Kirsten had made mention of a time constraint she had needing to be back by 10:30 am. Kevin then solicited the group to find anyone else who may have a similar time constraint. Davin needed to return early as did Suzanne, and TriTodd. With that information Kevin suggested that they all start and ride together and those that needed to return early would be pointed in a straight route home allowing them to return in time.
The ride had a smooth comfortable start as everyone worked to introduce themselves to the first timers and to welcome back those who have been off their bikes for a while. The “Thorns”, “Stems”, and “Roses” all remained together through the Preston Neighborhood and to the intersection of Carpenter Upchurch and Lewis Stevens. At that intersection the “Roses” turned right and headed down “RON’S PULL” while the “Thorns” and “Stems” headed left into the hills of Jenks Carpenter and the climb up to Holt. The pack was poorly formed with the usual characters pushing for position in anticipation of the first attack expected at the climb up to Holt. This action splintered the group initially with “Down Hill Racer”, “Capn Carbon”, Davin, Doug Augusting, “Pink Triassolete”, all three young whipper snappers all forming the lead group as they charged down the hill towards the pending climb. Those more relaxed and confident of their skills held back to enjoy the spectacle and to time their response to the hill. Then suddenly in response to his jittery nature “Slow Todd” exploded out of the trailing group to jump the gap to the leading group. The hill scattered the group with each rider doing their best to match the challenge presented by gravity and the gradient of the hill. At about the half way point into the climb Dayn was seen passing “GOG” and as he did so he reached out and gave “GOG” a shove to the side, then with a smile he danced on up the hill as if to say “Catch me if you Can”. “GOG” was already close to maxing out his abilities and could only smile back.
Once at the top of Holt the group was directed to make the right towards Highway 55. The short run on Holt had the pack falling into a single file pace line which quickly gapped into two single file pace lines.
The group made is safely across highway 55 and again formed into single file gapped pace lines. The lead group was configured with the young whipper snappers, “Capn Carbon”, “Down Hill Racer”, “Dayn”, “TriTodd”, “Slow Todd”. This configuration remained for most of the day forming the “Thorns” in the lead and the trailing group now dubbed the “Stems”. The “Stems” enjoyed the ride as they carried on conversation and a comfortable yet challenging pace. At this point in the ride those riding as “Stems” included; “Pink Triassolete”, Davin, Dan, Doug, Suzanne, Kirsten, and “GOG”. The two groups rode on past the turn at Roberts and thru the stop at Jenks to the right turn onto Wimberly. Once on Wimberly the two groups formed again however “GOG’s” mass was great enough that the acceleration downhill, due to gravity’s pull on his mass, allowed him to coast thru the gap and join the “Thorns” for a brief moment. As he passed the “Stems” and some of the “Thorns” he was heard singing the praises of gravity and the joy for that moment of possessing great mass.
“GOG” was then passed by everyone as he was lamenting about having great Mass and the drag that Gravity imposes. At the very front of the “Thorns” “Capn Carbon” and Shawn were seen sparing each other to see who was the dominant “Thorn” on the climb.
All found themselves next at the left turn onto Green Level and its two hills. As these next two hills unfolded the pack was found emulating the motion of a Slinky as it makes its way down a set of stairs.
The left turn onto Luther from Green Level had the pack pause very briefly to grab some water and assess everyone’s condition. The pack was off again headed towards Lake Jordan or where ever it was Kevin had planned for the day’s route. “Capn Carbon”, Shawn, Dayn, “Slow Todd”, and “Down Hill Racer” all continued to challenge one another with each and every hill. Luther eventually ended at highway 751 forcing the pack into the right turn onto 751. It was here that those needing to head home early said their goodbyes. The early birds continued on 751 to the berry patch and the turn onto Luter Shop that lead straight back home. They were led by “TriTodd” and Suzanne, as Kirsten, Davin, and Dan all headed back. The remaining “Thorns” and “Stems” made the left turn onto Horton Pond and its rolling hills.
The group splintered into the two right from the start. The “Thorns” light it up with Dayn, “Slow Todd”, “Down Hill Racer”, Shawn, James, and “Capn Carbon” charging forward. “GOG”, “Pink Triassolete”, Doug, and Nicole worked together to push their own pace line. At the end of Horton Pond the “Thorns” were found circling waiting for the “Stems” to arrive and for “GOG” to indicate the next turn. Many were anticipating a right hand turn that would lead to Lake Jordan and Lystra. “GOG” however rolled thru the intersection and drifted left onto Farrington pointed towards Highway 64 and the many possible variations available for the remainder of the route.
It did not take the pack long to run down “GOG” and then roll on past him. The pack was found circling in the gas station parking lot at the corner of Highway 64 and Farrington. “Where do plan on the route going” Dayn asked. “GOG” pondered the best reply. If he informs Dayn of the intended route then that would be the last time anyone would see Dayn and others who would enjoy hammering the rest of the route. If “GOG” does not inform Dayn then Dayn and the other Hammer Heads would get very frustrated having to slow and circle at all intersection as they waited for “GOG” and the slower riders.
“OK, I was planning on a totally new section of roads for the group”, “take 64 towards Big Woods, however do NOT turn right, instead make a left away from BIG WOODS”. “At the next intersection make a right onto N Pea Ridge and following it back to 64”. “Then cross 64 and continue until you hit 15/501”. “Once there turn right onto 15/501 and take it to Jack Bennet and then onto Farrington and then on into the finish”.
“GOG” had just given out the entire last 2/3rds of the day’s route to the Hammer Heads.
They all lit it up and powered down Highway 64 to the left turn at Big Woods. Those remaining to form the trailing group of riders were “GOG”, Nicole, “Pink Triassolete”, Doug, and James. The Hammerheads were quickly out of site even as the trailing group road at 21 mph down highway 64.
At the turn the “Thorns” elected to circle again allowing all riders to regroup as they now found themselves on roads not yet traveled in prior rides by the group. The pace was slowed with all staying together until the last downhill and the stop sign signaling the next turn. The “Thorns” now confident they were on the correct path jumped into the right turn and again challenged anyone to hang with them if they could. This group of Hammer Heads was beginning to splinter with “Slow Todd”, and “Down Hill Racer” falling off the pace and riding in the no-mans land between the “Thorns” and “Stems”.
Again the “Thorns” were found circling at the location where N. Pea Ridge and Highway 64 meet. “GOG” was beginning to feel the effects of not having been on the bike for more than once in the last two weeks and asked the group to make a brief stop after crossing the highway. As “GOG” bent over in an effort to get blood back to his head and reduce the dizziness “Capn Carbon” was suggesting that the group all ride Lystra. He wanted to introduce the new riders to the joys of riding up Lystra. “The only way to accomplish that is to first get to the bottom of Lystra before attempting the climb” informed “GOG”. “Yea, we can do that” cried “Capn Carbon” as his excitement of climbing Lystra mounted.
The group was now ready to head back onto the road. This section of road is a continuation of N. Pea Ridge, however it changes it name on this side of Highway 64 to Mt Gilead Church Road. The group again splintered into two with the “Stems” now growing in size by the addition of “Slow Todd” and “Down Hill Racer”. The run down Mt Gilead was not flat and the sun was now coming out in full force.
Again the “Thorns” were found waiting at the corner of 15/501 to confirm the directions as “GOG” had explained way back on Farrington and Highway 64. “GOG” found it interesting that the “Thorns” still elected to race and then wait for the others in an effort to keep the group somewhat intact.
“OK who wants to ride up Lystra” “Capn Carbon” was asking. “Only Dumb Asses” was “GOGs” reply.
That is all that was need for Dayn, “Capn Carbon” and Shawn to elect to do Lystra. “We will all wait at the gas station on Lystra and Farrington for you Dumb Asses to do your extra climb” was the command from “GOG”.
The riders all set off onto 15/501 to locate the right turn onto Jack Bennet and the long downhill it would provide. “Down Hill Racer” lived up to his name as he made an initial attempt to better his fasted downhill speed. The days head wind soon put a damper on his attempt to reach 50 mph. The rest of the pack was stung all along the length of the downhill as each attacked or coasted at their own comfort level. “GOG” was firmly in the rear even with gravity and his mass working together to catapult him down hill. At about the half way point an ASSHOLE in a while Chevy pickup truck with Dulles
And wide mirrors decided to see how close he could get to each of the riders. He did not slow his speed or move over to allow for safe passage even when other cars were coming up the hill in the opposite direction. On at least one occasion he forced the oncoming car to swing onto the shoulder as they met.
Once safely at the bottom of the hill the pack reformed, although without “Capn Carbon”, Dayn, and Shawn who all headed for the climb up Lystra (DUMB ASSES). The others rode comfortably on to the Gas Station at Lystra and Farrington to rest, get a bio break, wait for the DUMB ASSES, and fill empty water bottles. “GOG” purchased a gallon of Ice Cold Water to share with the group, allowing everyone to top off their water bottles. “Down Hill Racer” needed to get back so he took off solo with the expectation that he may be caught by part of the pack towards the finish. Within a few minutes the DUMB ASSES arrived having just attacked the Lystra hill. Nicole asked “Capn Carbon” if he needed to use the LITTLE GIRLS ROOM just as two guys were walking past. They looked at each other and then at “Capn Carbon” and started to chuckle.
As soon as the DUMB ASSES had filled their water bottles “Capn Carbon” was heard saying “Are we riding or What”.
Everyone scrambled to get there gloves, and helmets back on so they would not be holding up the DUMB ASSES any longer than needed.
Back onto Farrington headed towards Lake Jordan and the turn at Martha Chapel the hammer heads were already lighting it up once again. They had generated such a gap that the trailing riders were just reaching the edge of Lake Jordan as the DUMB ASSES were already onto Martha Chapel. It was at that point that Dayn turned to “Capn Carbon” and was heard saying “I should hold up and ride part of the ride with Kevin since it is his ride”. Upon looking back and seeing the huge gap Dayn then commented “Aw what the heck lets go” and with that the Hammer Heads lit it up again never to be seen by the rest of the group until the finish.
The surviving riders finished the ride following the most direct and flattest route possible. With 4 mile to the finish “GOG” fell off the pace and found it a struggle to manage 12 mph.
Once at the end the group learned that Shawn made a great showing for himself by hanging with the big boys only to crack slightly at the end. Dayn and “Capn Carbon” never took the pressure off the entire ride. The “Thorns” and “Stems” finished 54 miles at a 17 mph pace. The “Roses” completed 35 miles at a 15+ mph pace.
Josh Carter – “Moving Violation” showed up while everyone was loading up their bikes to head for home. He could not ride earlier and was now planning to head out for a ride on his own. “Capn Carbon” elected to go back out and ride with Josh. This gave “Capn Carbon” and additional 30 miles for a total of 80+ for the day. GET A LIFE !
Sunday May 17
Wet What the Heck.
Those in attendance representing the “Roses”
Andy Brogdert
Lori Brogdert
Theresa Smit
Those in attendance representing the “Thorns”
Steve Cope – “Capn Carbon”
Josh Carter – “Moving Violation”
Tim Divinney – “The Love Train”, “Fast Tim”
Kevin Smit – “GOG”
The threat of rain was all around. Doppler Radar suggested it was about to get worse.
The group elected to head out thinking to do a shorter ride to be done prior to the rain.
In looking at the Doppler radar it appeared that the storms were further away if the group headed towards Apex rather than the normal Lake Jordan area. So “GOG” was quickly putting a route together in his head that would take the “Thorns” into Apex and then any number of routes back towards home.
The group swung onto High House and into the Preston Neighborhood. Nice slow start with the pack riding in a slight mist as they exited the roundabout in Preston and into the intersection at Carpenter Upchurch road. It was at this spot that the “Roses” elected to turn right towards familiar roads and the “Thorns” turned left towards Apex and any number of routes possible in that direction.
The mist was not increasing and in fact was letting up as the “Thorns” worked their way thru Cary and into down town Apex. “Wahoo looks like we will have dry roads and cool temps” was the joyful comment from “GOG”. Within the length of Old Salem road the Mist had returned and included brief drops of rain. Just as the group slowed for the stop light on North Salem and Highway 55 the riders could see that the road up ahead was WET, and in fact the air up ahead appeared to have a fuzzy haze about its appearance. No one mentioned it but they all saw the clear demarcation of dry and NOT DRY.
No hesitation from the group as all riders cleared thru the intersection and headed towards the pending dampness.
SPLASH.
Just as the group of cyclists reached the left hand turn onto Tingen the Humidity reached the total saturation point. No one wanted to turn back with the fun filled fast Tingen lying just ahead.
“Capn Carbon” jumped on the pedals and cracked the pace up immediately pulling the entire length of Tingen at speeds of 28 mph. “GOG” was working desperately to hold on. The rain in the face plus the spray from the rear tires, not to mention “GOGS” sweat in his eyes made it very challenging to see. The spray forced each trailing rider to slide off the rear wheel slightly putting the spray just at the side of the riders face and reducing the effect of a draft from the bike ahead. The group formed more of a tight echelon than a peloton. As the rolling hills of Tingen loomed the pack splintered with each rider working their best to meet the challenge of each of the climbs. And again it was “GOG” bringing up the rear.
At the corner of Tingen and Friendship the group stopped long enough to express the fun each had in the rain and on Tingen. The group also discussed the fact that “The Love Train” was missing from the ride Saturday due to his Choir practice. The group then learned he sings in Latin in Church’s. The group then asked if he had to sign a waiver promising not to defile or deface any religious objects or deities, and that he would not sing cuss words in Latin. A brief chuckle was had by all.
The rain had again stopped and the pack was directed to make the left turn towards Sharen Harris. As the group rolled on down the road the Rain returned with an even greater force. No sense in turning back now since all were as wet as they could get. “GOG” did decide to alter the route slightly with the intention of reducing the miles normally expected on this particular route. As Kevin was redrawing the route in his head the pack of cyclists continued their 19+ mph pace towards the intersection of Friendship and New Hill Holleman Road.
It was at that intersection that Kevin altered the route. Normally the group would turn left however today in the rain they were directed to make a right turn onto New Hill Holleman. This road is usually busy with traffic but today the traffic was almost nonexistent. This was a good thing since the road is also filled with pot holes that on today’s ride were now small lakes to be avoided at all costs. The group did a good job of working together announcing and then avoiding the potential pit falls that could be lying just beneath the surface. The direction on New Hill Holleman is also pocked with several hills much like the one in the last few miles of Tingen Road. As the group headed back towards Cary and Apex “The Love Train” asked “ you are not planning on taking us back into Apex on Olive Chapel Road are you?”. “NOPE, I have a much better route planned” was “GOG’s” reply. “BLESS YOU, I hate the hills on that road” was the immediate response from “The Love Train”. “ I do not have a clue where I am” was heard coming from “Capn Carbon”. “We were on this road Wednesday night” was the information supplied by “Moving Violation”, in his effort to help the always navigationally challenged “Capn Carbon”. This bit of information only made “Capn Carbon” more confused. The rain was now a steady downpour.
Half way up the longest climb of that section of the route on a curve “GOG” checked his mirror and craned his neck to look ahead into the curve before signaling the left turn onto Tody Goodwin.
The pack made a smooth turn onto this section of road with “Capn Carbon” and “Moving Violation” increasing the pace on the slight incline. The pack was spurred along at 21 mph up and over each of the rolling hills. The rain had subsided for now and remained that way the entire length of their run to the next T intersection at Beaver Dam Road. Once at the intersection the group again took a very brief pause allowing “GOG” to waddle up to the group. There were also two riders seen approaching the intersection from Beaver Dam Road and headed towards Highway 64. This was the direction the group was about to take as well.
“GOG” rolled on thru the intersection and onto Beaver Dam knowing that if he stopped at all “Capn Carbon” would be heard asking “What are we riding or what?”. The pace again reached 21 mph as the group closed in on Highway 64 and the roads leading towards home. At that intersection “Capn Carbon” pulled off into the parking lot at the gas station only to notice that “GOG” had again rolled into the intersection keeping his momentum from reaching a complete stop. Without hesitation “Capn Carbon” did a quick u-turn and bolted to the front of the pace line in an effort to encourage “GOG” into adding to momentum rather than coasting and losing any momentum. Now thru the intersection with “Capn Carbon” in the pull position the pace was again ratcheting up to and over 21 mph. “GOG” was focused on keeping as tight to “Capn’s” rear wheel as possible. This lasted only a short while as the pace remained in the low 20 mph range even as the road began to rise slightly in elevation. “I can’t Hold on, Sorry” was the cry from “GOG” as he slid to the outside allowing “The Love Train” and “Moving Violation” to fill into the prime drafting spots. “GOG” was now a solo rider once again only to be brought back into the pack after they coasted uphill towards the turn onto Holland Chapel Road. The rain was still holding off as the group made the turn towards Cary.
“I thought for sure you were going to chase down those two riders ahead of us” Josh was heard calling out to Steve. “What riders ahead of us” was Steve’s confused reply. “The ones we talked to back on Beaver Dam Road” was the frustrated comeback from “The Love Train”.
Clearly “Capn Carbon” does not know where he is, does not remember things even after a brief moment, and only has one speed – FAST ALL THE TIME.
After that brief bit of banter the group took off again remaining together the entire length of Holland Chapel thru the short right and left turn onto Luter Shop the pack road just fast enough to keep “GOG” within the pace line.
“GOG” knew that soon he would be riding solo again as the sprint for the County Line lay only a mile or two away. Sure enough the pace multiplied as each rider (not “GOG”) made a play to try and tire the others out just prior to the sprint. From a distance “GOG” saw the sprint unfold with JOSH CARTER – “MOVING VIOLATION” taking the county line sprint victory from STEV COPE _ “Capn Carbon”. That is two days in a row that “Moving Violation” has beaten “Capn Carbon” on the sprint to the county line.
With the sprint behind them all riders settled into a more reasonable pace again allowing “GOG” to remain in the pack.
Now contemplating the finishing route path “GOG” suggested they ride into Cary Glenn and “Nicole’s Roller Coasters”. In a surprised tone “Capn Carbon” was heard asking “Are you sure you want to do the extra miles and hills?”. “GOG” was not dead yet.
Just as the pack was directed into the neighborhood the skies darkened. “YEA I figured we could do a few more miles and hills and do them in pouring rain” was the smart ass remark from “GOG”.
Into the 3 climbs, the riders accelerated. Just prior to the last long climb out of the neighborhood the storm front hit dropping the temperature all at once. “GOG” was expecting snow any minute as the pack exited Cary Glenn and turned onto Carpenter Fire Station road. The group again altered their pace allowing for “GOG” to hang on as part of the pack. They all hit the green light at highway 55 and rolled onto the turn onto Carpenter Upchurch. This is the section of road that “Capn Carbon” makes sure he dominates and lays claim to demolishing any and all riders that are still in the pack with him. In the direction back towards the finish this section of road is known to the group as “Capn’s Grave Yard” as he buries all who try to hang with him. This section of road headed in the opposite direction is known to the group as “Ron’s Pull” for his monumental acceleration and pull during the early phases of a ride.
The pack was now falling in line behind “Capn” in an effort to see how long they would hang before being buried. “GOG” was in the tail position still working to recover from his earlier efforts to survive the days ride. Just as “Capn” started applying physical abuse upon the pack “GOG” was working to replace his water bottle into the cage when it slipped from his tired hands and rolled across the road.
Too add insult to injury the Rain was back and adding to the physical abuse. The ride leaders were then found circling back to see if Kevin was ok as he also was circling to go back and recover his water bottle that had now rolled into the ditch on the other side of the road.
Once the water bottle was back in its cage the pack was off to finish the last 2 – 4 miles in the rain.
“Capn Carbon” took little time to leave the group in his wake. All made the green lights thru High House and into the fast downhill towards Cary Parkway.
“GOG” again well behind the pack was working to time his move into the left lane for the pending turn into the Brueggers parking lot. The pack was several yards up ahead, a line of cars were passing on the left, a gap in the cars was forming just at the right time for “GOG” to signal and move left while a car was barring down directly behind him in the right lane. Just as “GOG” made his signal and was already well committed to the left lane the car behind decided to also move into the left lane. “GOG” and car were now intimately close with the car’s horn blowing and “GOG” waving thank you. The pack up ahead saw that “GOG” had set the stage for all to now enter the left lane and set up for the turn into the finish.
“Man I thought you were a hood ornament” was the quick comment from “Capn”. “I have no clue why that guy changed lanes into my lane after I had signaled and made my move” was the only reply from “GOG” as he too was convinced he was close being a hood ornament.
With the rain still coming down the riders rolled up to their vehicles and began to tear down the bikes for transport via car.
Theresa was found sitting in their car as she waited and waited and waited on Kevin.
“You said you guys would do a short ride maybe 30 miles at the most, I have been waiting for hours, what were you thinking riding in the rain, it is not safe”.
“The Roses were smart enough to turn back once the rain began”
“we only did 11 miles”
“ Why didn’t you call me”.
Kevin just stood there and took the verbal attack knowing there was no justification for having as much fun as they all had just had.
In an effort to help soften the attack from Theresa each of the other riders had comments like.
“Best ride ever”
“Great route let’s do that again soon”
“Riding in the rain was a Hoot”
“Thanks Kevin for a fantastic ride”
Kevin only stood there in the rain waiting for his punishment and to delay having to get in the car where he and Theresa could continue her scolding of him.
The “Thorns” rode 44 miles IN THE RAIN at an average of 17 mph.
And had a lot of fun doing it.
Join them next time in the rain.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
A GOG BONK
Saturday April 25th.
A beautiful Summer like day in Spring. The temps were already in the high 70’s and headed for the low 90’s. The breezes were light and humidity on the rise as the bikers assembled.
Those in attendance
For the “Roses”
Theresa Smit
Christine Pechner – rode to the start from home without “Slow Todd”.
For the “Thorns”
Todd Spain – TriTodd
Steve Cope – “Capn Carbon”
Jeffery Roussel – “Down Hill Racer” rode to the start on his Steel is Real Surley Bike.
Todd Pechner – “Slow Todd” – who also rode to the start but came in long after his wife arrived. This created a great deal of banter from the group as they all assumed he had slept in, or his wife actually out-rode him to get to the start first.
Kevin-Smit - “GOG” – the KING of BONK.
Suzanne McBee – rode to the start arriving late.
As the riders each trickled into Brueggers it was learned that TriTodd had started the morning by finding two flats on his bike. He changed the rear tire flat and was running out of time to fix the front so he stole the front wheel off of his son’s bike and used that for the days ride. The group also learned that “TrTodd’” wrist is still creating problems for him during swims and bike rides and he has it wrapped in what looked like elastic duct tape.
It was also learned that Jeffery had begun his day with a flat tire as well and had to change it before setting out to meet the group at Brueggers. This put him at risk of missing the start so he raced to get to Brueggers arriving in plenty of time to recover from that effort.
Just as the pack was ready to leave the parking lot they were visited by the husband of the woman who owes the beauty salon next to the ABC store. Last week the lady had asked the riders to park their cars somewhere else because they were taking spots away from her business. At that time there were only 3 cars parked as part of the group of riders. On this day there were only two cars parked as part of the group due to everyone else riding to the start.
It was TriTodd and Jeffery who explained to the gentleman that we only had two cars parked in the lot and we also visit Bruegger and Caribou at the beginning and end of the ride.
The gentleman then said sorry he thought there were many more cars involved. To help keep all parties happy it will be best to park from now on in the area just behind the retaining wall between the Brueggers lot and the restaurant that is now out of business. This will also help move the bikers out of the heavy traffic pattern of cars entering the lot.
The pack then headed out onto High House with the “Thorns and Roses” all staying tightly formed into a well organized pack. Just as the pack reached the turn into Preston Suzanne McBee was spotted heading towards them from the opposite direction. Everyone immediately recognized her as she also noticed the group. A quick exchange of banter and some hand signals that indicated she was there to join the group forced the pack to slow in anticipation of Suzanne’s sprint to catch-up.
The pace thru the Preston neighborhood was a quick as usual however on this day the “Roses” were in the middle of the pack and showed no signs of being dropped that early in the ride. Not even the first hill of the day posed a challenge for the “Roses” as they both were at the light at Davis with all the “Thorns”. Chirs had not been on her bike for several weeks if not months and showed no signs of being pushed. Theresa was focused on riding within the slip stream of anyone one she could even on the uphill climbs. The “Roses” are showing signs of strength and endurance as this season unfolds.
As the pack rolled thru the roundabout in Preston they learned all about “Slow Todds” previous weekends triathlon performance. He did very well in his age group and placed in the top 1/3 overall. His Boil did not even bother him, but he did get beat by at least 3 skirts. “Capn Carbon” has vowed NEVER to be Beaten by a SKIRT. That is why he does not enter any contests that allow women.
The group also learned about the ride “Capn Carbon” and Suzanne did last weekend. A large group of Mello Vello riders organized a one day trip to Pilot Mountain to ride 60 miles and three major climbs.
Unfortunately they were only able to accomplish 1 2/3s of the ride. The ride organizer had an unfortunate crash on the way down Pilot Mountain. He ended up OK – minor Concussion when he locked up his rear wheel and slid into the side of a pick-up truck that was headed up the hill on a hair pin curve. He was back on his bike at the Wednesday Mello Vello ride, and was also out Saturday leading another 60 plus mile ride that covered all the major hills in the local area. Suzanne’s husband Dayn was also on that ride while she elected to join the “Thorns” instead.
The group also learned about Theresa’s solid 3 days of biking the weekend before. She and Kevin along with Jae Brainard, the Clanton’s, Wayne, and other Mello Vello riders joined over 900 cyclists in Washington NC for the NC Spring ride. A 3 day event riding the flat roads of eastern NC. Theresa rode 75 miles on Friday at an average speed of 16.5 mph. She was accompanied by Kevin and Wayne who did all they could to hold on to her especially against some strong head winds. Theresa followed that up on Saturday by doing 111 miles at an average of 15.4 mph. She then elected to do a recovery ride on Sunday by riding 26 miles again against strong head winds. What an animal.
The group also learned that Jeffery led the “Thorns” last weekend and had 4 of TriTodd’s Triassholetes with him as he directed their efforts and routes. Thanks “Down Hill Racer” for being there and taking the lead. The group also learned that “Capn Carbon” led the “Thorns” last Sunday by designing a route that allowed them to then catch the Cycling Spoken here riders at the end of the “Thorns” ride and the Beginning of the “Cycling Spoken here” ride. This allowed any “Thorns” who wanted more miles to join in with the “CSH” ride. Thanks “Capn Carbon”. This may very well become a Sunday Tradition.
Back to the day’s ride.
The pack remained intact as they made the right turn onto Ron’s Pull. Kevin was in the lead position. He controlled the pack for about half the distance on Ron’s pull, working to keep the pace at or just under 20 mph. The “Roses” were solidly within the pace line. Then “Slow Todd” made a jump followed as expected by “Capn Carbon”. The rest of the pace line was content with the speed and enjoyed the game being played by the two riders who jumped. No need to wait on anyone at the end of Ron’s Pull.
The pack glided through the intersection and onto Carpenter Fire Station were Jeffery and TriTodd set the pace followed by the pack all now in single file. The run down Carpenter Fire Station remained a steady 20 mph with others like Kevin, and “Slow Todd” also taking short turns in the pull position. The “Thorns and Roses” still together as all made the left turn onto Yates Store and the next challenge known to all as “UpChuck” hill.
“Down Hill Racer” popped out of the pack to set himself up for his downhill plunge. “Capn Carbon” weaved his way through the pack to ensure he could gain full effect from the slip stream that would be created by “Down Hill” racer. The other cyclists each took a more tentative run down the hill making sure each allowed for room to maneuver around other cyclists and pot holes that continue to grow as fast as weeds in a yard.
“Capn Carbon” jumped first at the base of “UpChuck” followed by “Slow Todd” and then reluctantly by Kevin, and “Down Hill Racer” as he was already in the throws of loosing momentum. Those taking a more disciplined approach to the hill included TriTodd, Susanne, Theresa, and Chris.
“Capn Carbon” was the first to the top and he did so taunting the others by zooming past and then riding just hard enough to stay ahead while also traversing the hill from side to side (lengthening the hill for him and allowing him to scoff at those just below him on the climb).
A short group circle at the top of the hill pulled the group back together with the “Roses” still riding strong within the pack. A fast run of 19 – 21 mph through the rolling hills of New Hope Church Road towards the normal left turn onto Mt Pisgah and the “Roses” remained on the wheels of the “Thorns”. As the pack closed in on what is normally a left turn Kevin decided to change it up and instructed the pack to stay straight. This communications did not filter its way to the two lead riders who were still attacking each other with short sprints. Oddly enough “Capn Carbon” was planning to play a trick on “Slow Todd” and yelled to him that that route would go straight. “Slow Todd: was out front and “Capn Carbon” wanted “Slow Todd” to miss the left turn by going straight under his command to do so. As “Slow Todd” went on straight “Capn Carbon made the sharp left turn and started another attack onto Mt Pisgah. The plan backfired on “Capn Carbon” as the entire pack already planned to go straight per Kevin’s earlier instructions. “Slow Todd” caught “capn Carbon” making the left turn and he slowed to set himself up for a u turn. Just as he started to swing left the pack went zipping past him on all sides creating even more confusion. “Slow Todd” recovered and chased down the pack laughing as he did, now knowing “Capn Carbon” had duped no one but himself. It was not long before “Capn Carbon” was seen again nipping at the heels of the riders in the pack.
The next turn was a left onto 751 forcing the pack again into a single file draft line. The hills on 751 are longer than those on Mt Pisgah but do allow for a steady pull and resultant draft for those who can hold on. The pack was pulled along by “Down Hill” racer and Kevin as each took turns on 751 all the way to the next turn at Martha Chapel. The “Thorns” circled briefly as the “Roses” closed in on the turn onto Martha Chapel. The two long hills on 751 splintered them off the back of the pack. “Slow Todd” was nervously awaiting the arrival of his “Rose” when all of a sudden his momentum stalled, his bike wobbled, and then in perfect slow motion he and his bike hit the pavement just as Chris arrived at the intersection. Without a word “Slow Todd” removed himself from the bike and stood over it glaring at it as if to suggest the BIKE FAILED HIM. After a quick “You OK?” he picked up the bike and again with no other exchange of words mounted it and began to move towards Martha Chapel road.
In the mean time Theresa had already swung thru the turn and was continuing to press solo down Martha’s Chapel. The pack gathered slowly making sure that “Slow Todd” was indeed OK. Theresa was now well down the road as the pack pulled itself into formation. For the longest time no one was concerned about the lone rider who had made her move on the pack earlier. Finally “Slow Todd” made the charge only to again be followed by “Capn Carbon”. These two riders were the only ones concerned that Theresa may have just put a move on the entire pack. The pack again displayed a great deal of discipline as it kept all together while ratcheting up the speed.
The pack could see Theresa in the distance as the two worked to chase her down. It took half the length of Martha Chapel before they caught her. Theresa sensed them coming and prepared to jump on their rear wheels as they went by. She did a good job of timing it and held on only dropping off near the end of Martha Chapel. Theresa may soon be joining “Slow Todd” and “Capn Carbon” in there periodic attacks on one another.
As the riders reached the end of Martha’s Chapel they could see a fast moving pace line of riders rushing down Farrington headed towards Lystra. “Go Get Em” Theresa cried out to “Capn Carbon” and “Slow Todd”. “Capn Carbon” needed no encouragement as he was already in full pursuit. The “Thorns” had not yet finished their run down Martha Chapel as “Capn Carbon” was folding himself into this new pack of cyclists headed towards Lystra. That was the last time the “Thorns” and “Roses” saw “Capn Carbon”.
“Left onto Farrington” was the command from Kevin (GOG). His plan was to guide the cyclists up “Kevin’s Crawl” to Holland Chapel were they would say goodbye to the “Roses” who would head for home while the “Thorns” would do Big Woods and Lystra. “GOG” was in the pull position and held the pace line down to 14 mph up “Kevin’s Crawl” in an effort to allow the “Roses” to remain in the draft.
“YOU realy want to do Lystra?” TriTodd asked. “I considered it” was the reply from “GOG”. “How about we do Pea Ridge instead” was the rebuttal from TriTodd. No more discussion on that topic as the “Thorns” pulled off the side of the road to allow Suzanne to take a phone call and to say goodbye to the “Roses” who really pushed the pace for themselves and were now pointed towards the finish with about 15 miles to go.
Once Suzanne was off the phone the “Thorns” turned towards Highway 64 on Farrington. “GOG” was again at the head of the pace line pulling the pack at 19 to 21 mph. Across 64 at the lights indicating that the “Thorns” were indeed headed towards Pee Ridge and not Big Woods. “GOG” remained in the pull position for a short while on Beaver Dam road still working to hold the 19 – 21 mph pace. “TriTodd” then pulled up alongside and suggested that “GOG” take a break as “TriTodd” took the lead position. Now traveling at 24 mph the pack made their way to the right turn onto Pea Ridge Road just past Lake Jordan. The pack bunched up on the climb with “Slow Todd” and “TriTodd” pushing at 19 mph during the entire climb covering several miles to the left turn onto New Elam Church Road. At this point the road was marked with several areas that had just been patched. The patches still had small loose pea sized gravel/sand, there were also areas were gravel driveways puked large gravel stones into the path of the cyclists. As the cyclists started down one of the many hills “GOG” was coasting and drinking water from his water bottle just as he hit the edge of one of the Driveways and its mine field of stones.
BAM.
A rear flat.
“I got a Flat” was the cry from “GOG” forcing the pack to turn back to see what damage had been done.
“GOG” pulled his bike into the shade and began the slow process of changing his rear tube. “GOG” was already into full sweet management issues and bending over to fix the tire only put salty sweet into his eyes. Everyone watched and waited as “GOG” worked ever so slowly to complete a task that normally should be accomplished in 1 to 2 minutes. “Down Hill Racer” had a micro floor pump that came in very handy allowing “GOG” to get a full 120 lbs of pressure into his rear tire. “TriTodd” took a picture of the pathetic tire changing effort and sent it from his phone to his Twitter site for all to enjoy. During this entire process Susanne was having a great time chit chatting in a bubbly tone about many subjects none of which this rider can remember. “I believe you must be on Prozac to be so DAMN HAPPY all the time” was the mean remark from “GOG”. “NOPE”, “ Just Beer and WINE” was Susanne’s quick response.
“GOG” only shook his head as he wished he could bottle some of Susanne’s “SPIRT of LIFE” and use it for himself.
Back into the saddle each rider now made their way to old US highway 1 and the path back towards home. The temperature was well into the low 90’s as they made the turn.
“Can We STOP”, “I need to use the restroom” was the plea from Susanne. “Yes, for you we will stop” was the reply. “Who needs Water” was the question from “Down Hill Racer”. Jeffery ended up buying the biggest jug of water available and shared with everyone. Thanks “Down Hill Racer”.
The group now started the long 15 + mile drive towards home. Old US 1 is full of rolling hills and NO SHADE. “TriTodd” took the lead position and lit it up to 22 – 24 mph up hills. His steady pace and position on the road allowed “GOG” to ride within 2 inches of his rear wheel. He road with a confidence level that had the pack roll past biker after biker, some of whom grabbed on to the end of the pace line. At one point “Slow Todd” had slid past “GOG” to take second position. Then after a couple more miles “TriTodd” rolled off the front putting “Slow Todd” in the pull position with “GOG” in second and “Down Hill Racer” in third followed by Suzanne. At this point those that had grabbed on earlier had since dropped off the back. “Slow Todd” pulled for a short distance than rolled off. “OH NO” “GOG” felt the sudden impact of trying to hold 24 mph uphill while tired. He suddenly knew there was trouble. “I can’t Hold this pace the best I might be able to do is 17” he shouted to those behind. As soon as he was done delivering that message he realized he was DONE. “SHIT” he mumbled as he was now pulling out of the pace line. “I am in trouble” he was heard telling “Slow Todd” as “GOG” continued to fall towards the rear of the pace line. “Down Hill Racer” was now in the pull position and decided he needed to ratchet the pace back up to 24 mph. “GOG” was now falling further off the pace and had no hope of jumping onto the rear wheel of Suzanne as the pace line bolted on head.
YES he BONKED. Just that quick with no warning “GOG” was spent. He worked his best to stay upright as his pace was now a struggle at 11 mph. The pack was no longer in sight and all the cyclists that had been passed earlier were now easily zooming past the wounded “GOG”. The town of Apex was still 5 miles away. “GOG” knew that he needed to find shade and cold water to help with his recovery from the BONK. Food would also help but would have to come much later due to the nauseous sensation swelling within him. His eyes were trying to roll to the back of his head forcing him to shake his head periodically as if that would keep his eyes looking forward.
Now with 1 mile to go he spotted two riders in the distance riding slowly as if to suggest he was gaining on them when in fact they were slowing more and more to close the gap. It was “Slow Todd” and Suzanne who were now gliding along waiting to envelop the lone rider. “You OK” “Slow Todd” asked.
“NO Man I am Spent”. The three limped into APEX were “TriTodd” and “Down Hill Racer” were waiting under a shade tree for the others to arrive. “GOG” guided his bike up a driveway and onto the sidewalk were the shade was waiting for him. He dismounted, laid down his bike, removed his helmet and cloves and sat himself down on the cool grass. “I will be OK, just need to recover for a few minutes, I know my way home from here, I have a phone, I will be OK, You guys go on, I do not want to hold you up” he spoke in a slurred manner. No one spoke they all just stared at this lump on the ground. Finally it was “Down Hill Racer” who said “You don’t look very good”. Everyone else continued to stare.
“I Bonk all the time, I just need to rest a few and then I will limp on to the finish”. “Please go on, do not wait on me to recover, If you don’t go you will force me to leave before I am ready too” again in a partial slurred form of speech.
“You would not leave Me” Suzanne said in a defiant tone.
“OK, I am ready” Kevin said as he stood.
“Woo”.
As soon as he stood Kevin was forced to bend over putting his head between his knees to keep from passing out.
Sitting back down Kevin was now found pulling his helmet to him as he then placed it under his head as a pillow now finding himself laying rather than sitting in the grass.
“OK” , “ I will call Theresa to come and get me” Kevin said in defeat.
That was what was needed for “TriTodd” and “Down Hill Racer” to have permission to finish the ride.
Suzanne and “Slow Todd” continued to monitor “GOG” for signs of shock until Theresa was seen approaching in the car.
The “Roses” completed 35 miles at a 16 mph pace. GREAT RIDE.
The “Thorns” were entertained by the antics of “Capn Carbon”, and “GOG” with “Capn Carbon” remaining with the pack he chased down and completed 80 miles at 19 mph average. While “GOG” provided entertainment value in his tire changing abilities and his trick in BONKING.
The “Thorns” who actually made it to the finish completed 46 miles.
No SUNDAY report.
"GOG" stayed in bed still working to recover from his BONK.
In checking his blood pressure that Sunday morning it was 100/55. That is a very low ready for "GOG" who takes medication for high blood pressure.
Rumor has it that Sunday's ride had many riders.
Some in attendance included.
Coach Dotson
Steve Cope
Todd Spain
Tim Travitz
Tim Deviney
Christy Miller
Jae Brainard
Theresa Smit
Jeffery Roussel
Josh Carter
Jill Fitzgibons
and at least 2 other of TRITODDS Triassholetes.
Several of the "Thorns" did the ride including Big Woods, and then jumped into the pack of Riders headed out from Cycling Spoken Here.
A beautiful Summer like day in Spring. The temps were already in the high 70’s and headed for the low 90’s. The breezes were light and humidity on the rise as the bikers assembled.
Those in attendance
For the “Roses”
Theresa Smit
Christine Pechner – rode to the start from home without “Slow Todd”.
For the “Thorns”
Todd Spain – TriTodd
Steve Cope – “Capn Carbon”
Jeffery Roussel – “Down Hill Racer” rode to the start on his Steel is Real Surley Bike.
Todd Pechner – “Slow Todd” – who also rode to the start but came in long after his wife arrived. This created a great deal of banter from the group as they all assumed he had slept in, or his wife actually out-rode him to get to the start first.
Kevin-Smit - “GOG” – the KING of BONK.
Suzanne McBee – rode to the start arriving late.
As the riders each trickled into Brueggers it was learned that TriTodd had started the morning by finding two flats on his bike. He changed the rear tire flat and was running out of time to fix the front so he stole the front wheel off of his son’s bike and used that for the days ride. The group also learned that “TrTodd’” wrist is still creating problems for him during swims and bike rides and he has it wrapped in what looked like elastic duct tape.
It was also learned that Jeffery had begun his day with a flat tire as well and had to change it before setting out to meet the group at Brueggers. This put him at risk of missing the start so he raced to get to Brueggers arriving in plenty of time to recover from that effort.
Just as the pack was ready to leave the parking lot they were visited by the husband of the woman who owes the beauty salon next to the ABC store. Last week the lady had asked the riders to park their cars somewhere else because they were taking spots away from her business. At that time there were only 3 cars parked as part of the group of riders. On this day there were only two cars parked as part of the group due to everyone else riding to the start.
It was TriTodd and Jeffery who explained to the gentleman that we only had two cars parked in the lot and we also visit Bruegger and Caribou at the beginning and end of the ride.
The gentleman then said sorry he thought there were many more cars involved. To help keep all parties happy it will be best to park from now on in the area just behind the retaining wall between the Brueggers lot and the restaurant that is now out of business. This will also help move the bikers out of the heavy traffic pattern of cars entering the lot.
The pack then headed out onto High House with the “Thorns and Roses” all staying tightly formed into a well organized pack. Just as the pack reached the turn into Preston Suzanne McBee was spotted heading towards them from the opposite direction. Everyone immediately recognized her as she also noticed the group. A quick exchange of banter and some hand signals that indicated she was there to join the group forced the pack to slow in anticipation of Suzanne’s sprint to catch-up.
The pace thru the Preston neighborhood was a quick as usual however on this day the “Roses” were in the middle of the pack and showed no signs of being dropped that early in the ride. Not even the first hill of the day posed a challenge for the “Roses” as they both were at the light at Davis with all the “Thorns”. Chirs had not been on her bike for several weeks if not months and showed no signs of being pushed. Theresa was focused on riding within the slip stream of anyone one she could even on the uphill climbs. The “Roses” are showing signs of strength and endurance as this season unfolds.
As the pack rolled thru the roundabout in Preston they learned all about “Slow Todds” previous weekends triathlon performance. He did very well in his age group and placed in the top 1/3 overall. His Boil did not even bother him, but he did get beat by at least 3 skirts. “Capn Carbon” has vowed NEVER to be Beaten by a SKIRT. That is why he does not enter any contests that allow women.
The group also learned about the ride “Capn Carbon” and Suzanne did last weekend. A large group of Mello Vello riders organized a one day trip to Pilot Mountain to ride 60 miles and three major climbs.
Unfortunately they were only able to accomplish 1 2/3s of the ride. The ride organizer had an unfortunate crash on the way down Pilot Mountain. He ended up OK – minor Concussion when he locked up his rear wheel and slid into the side of a pick-up truck that was headed up the hill on a hair pin curve. He was back on his bike at the Wednesday Mello Vello ride, and was also out Saturday leading another 60 plus mile ride that covered all the major hills in the local area. Suzanne’s husband Dayn was also on that ride while she elected to join the “Thorns” instead.
The group also learned about Theresa’s solid 3 days of biking the weekend before. She and Kevin along with Jae Brainard, the Clanton’s, Wayne, and other Mello Vello riders joined over 900 cyclists in Washington NC for the NC Spring ride. A 3 day event riding the flat roads of eastern NC. Theresa rode 75 miles on Friday at an average speed of 16.5 mph. She was accompanied by Kevin and Wayne who did all they could to hold on to her especially against some strong head winds. Theresa followed that up on Saturday by doing 111 miles at an average of 15.4 mph. She then elected to do a recovery ride on Sunday by riding 26 miles again against strong head winds. What an animal.
The group also learned that Jeffery led the “Thorns” last weekend and had 4 of TriTodd’s Triassholetes with him as he directed their efforts and routes. Thanks “Down Hill Racer” for being there and taking the lead. The group also learned that “Capn Carbon” led the “Thorns” last Sunday by designing a route that allowed them to then catch the Cycling Spoken here riders at the end of the “Thorns” ride and the Beginning of the “Cycling Spoken here” ride. This allowed any “Thorns” who wanted more miles to join in with the “CSH” ride. Thanks “Capn Carbon”. This may very well become a Sunday Tradition.
Back to the day’s ride.
The pack remained intact as they made the right turn onto Ron’s Pull. Kevin was in the lead position. He controlled the pack for about half the distance on Ron’s pull, working to keep the pace at or just under 20 mph. The “Roses” were solidly within the pace line. Then “Slow Todd” made a jump followed as expected by “Capn Carbon”. The rest of the pace line was content with the speed and enjoyed the game being played by the two riders who jumped. No need to wait on anyone at the end of Ron’s Pull.
The pack glided through the intersection and onto Carpenter Fire Station were Jeffery and TriTodd set the pace followed by the pack all now in single file. The run down Carpenter Fire Station remained a steady 20 mph with others like Kevin, and “Slow Todd” also taking short turns in the pull position. The “Thorns and Roses” still together as all made the left turn onto Yates Store and the next challenge known to all as “UpChuck” hill.
“Down Hill Racer” popped out of the pack to set himself up for his downhill plunge. “Capn Carbon” weaved his way through the pack to ensure he could gain full effect from the slip stream that would be created by “Down Hill” racer. The other cyclists each took a more tentative run down the hill making sure each allowed for room to maneuver around other cyclists and pot holes that continue to grow as fast as weeds in a yard.
“Capn Carbon” jumped first at the base of “UpChuck” followed by “Slow Todd” and then reluctantly by Kevin, and “Down Hill Racer” as he was already in the throws of loosing momentum. Those taking a more disciplined approach to the hill included TriTodd, Susanne, Theresa, and Chris.
“Capn Carbon” was the first to the top and he did so taunting the others by zooming past and then riding just hard enough to stay ahead while also traversing the hill from side to side (lengthening the hill for him and allowing him to scoff at those just below him on the climb).
A short group circle at the top of the hill pulled the group back together with the “Roses” still riding strong within the pack. A fast run of 19 – 21 mph through the rolling hills of New Hope Church Road towards the normal left turn onto Mt Pisgah and the “Roses” remained on the wheels of the “Thorns”. As the pack closed in on what is normally a left turn Kevin decided to change it up and instructed the pack to stay straight. This communications did not filter its way to the two lead riders who were still attacking each other with short sprints. Oddly enough “Capn Carbon” was planning to play a trick on “Slow Todd” and yelled to him that that route would go straight. “Slow Todd: was out front and “Capn Carbon” wanted “Slow Todd” to miss the left turn by going straight under his command to do so. As “Slow Todd” went on straight “Capn Carbon made the sharp left turn and started another attack onto Mt Pisgah. The plan backfired on “Capn Carbon” as the entire pack already planned to go straight per Kevin’s earlier instructions. “Slow Todd” caught “capn Carbon” making the left turn and he slowed to set himself up for a u turn. Just as he started to swing left the pack went zipping past him on all sides creating even more confusion. “Slow Todd” recovered and chased down the pack laughing as he did, now knowing “Capn Carbon” had duped no one but himself. It was not long before “Capn Carbon” was seen again nipping at the heels of the riders in the pack.
The next turn was a left onto 751 forcing the pack again into a single file draft line. The hills on 751 are longer than those on Mt Pisgah but do allow for a steady pull and resultant draft for those who can hold on. The pack was pulled along by “Down Hill” racer and Kevin as each took turns on 751 all the way to the next turn at Martha Chapel. The “Thorns” circled briefly as the “Roses” closed in on the turn onto Martha Chapel. The two long hills on 751 splintered them off the back of the pack. “Slow Todd” was nervously awaiting the arrival of his “Rose” when all of a sudden his momentum stalled, his bike wobbled, and then in perfect slow motion he and his bike hit the pavement just as Chris arrived at the intersection. Without a word “Slow Todd” removed himself from the bike and stood over it glaring at it as if to suggest the BIKE FAILED HIM. After a quick “You OK?” he picked up the bike and again with no other exchange of words mounted it and began to move towards Martha Chapel road.
In the mean time Theresa had already swung thru the turn and was continuing to press solo down Martha’s Chapel. The pack gathered slowly making sure that “Slow Todd” was indeed OK. Theresa was now well down the road as the pack pulled itself into formation. For the longest time no one was concerned about the lone rider who had made her move on the pack earlier. Finally “Slow Todd” made the charge only to again be followed by “Capn Carbon”. These two riders were the only ones concerned that Theresa may have just put a move on the entire pack. The pack again displayed a great deal of discipline as it kept all together while ratcheting up the speed.
The pack could see Theresa in the distance as the two worked to chase her down. It took half the length of Martha Chapel before they caught her. Theresa sensed them coming and prepared to jump on their rear wheels as they went by. She did a good job of timing it and held on only dropping off near the end of Martha Chapel. Theresa may soon be joining “Slow Todd” and “Capn Carbon” in there periodic attacks on one another.
As the riders reached the end of Martha’s Chapel they could see a fast moving pace line of riders rushing down Farrington headed towards Lystra. “Go Get Em” Theresa cried out to “Capn Carbon” and “Slow Todd”. “Capn Carbon” needed no encouragement as he was already in full pursuit. The “Thorns” had not yet finished their run down Martha Chapel as “Capn Carbon” was folding himself into this new pack of cyclists headed towards Lystra. That was the last time the “Thorns” and “Roses” saw “Capn Carbon”.
“Left onto Farrington” was the command from Kevin (GOG). His plan was to guide the cyclists up “Kevin’s Crawl” to Holland Chapel were they would say goodbye to the “Roses” who would head for home while the “Thorns” would do Big Woods and Lystra. “GOG” was in the pull position and held the pace line down to 14 mph up “Kevin’s Crawl” in an effort to allow the “Roses” to remain in the draft.
“YOU realy want to do Lystra?” TriTodd asked. “I considered it” was the reply from “GOG”. “How about we do Pea Ridge instead” was the rebuttal from TriTodd. No more discussion on that topic as the “Thorns” pulled off the side of the road to allow Suzanne to take a phone call and to say goodbye to the “Roses” who really pushed the pace for themselves and were now pointed towards the finish with about 15 miles to go.
Once Suzanne was off the phone the “Thorns” turned towards Highway 64 on Farrington. “GOG” was again at the head of the pace line pulling the pack at 19 to 21 mph. Across 64 at the lights indicating that the “Thorns” were indeed headed towards Pee Ridge and not Big Woods. “GOG” remained in the pull position for a short while on Beaver Dam road still working to hold the 19 – 21 mph pace. “TriTodd” then pulled up alongside and suggested that “GOG” take a break as “TriTodd” took the lead position. Now traveling at 24 mph the pack made their way to the right turn onto Pea Ridge Road just past Lake Jordan. The pack bunched up on the climb with “Slow Todd” and “TriTodd” pushing at 19 mph during the entire climb covering several miles to the left turn onto New Elam Church Road. At this point the road was marked with several areas that had just been patched. The patches still had small loose pea sized gravel/sand, there were also areas were gravel driveways puked large gravel stones into the path of the cyclists. As the cyclists started down one of the many hills “GOG” was coasting and drinking water from his water bottle just as he hit the edge of one of the Driveways and its mine field of stones.
BAM.
A rear flat.
“I got a Flat” was the cry from “GOG” forcing the pack to turn back to see what damage had been done.
“GOG” pulled his bike into the shade and began the slow process of changing his rear tube. “GOG” was already into full sweet management issues and bending over to fix the tire only put salty sweet into his eyes. Everyone watched and waited as “GOG” worked ever so slowly to complete a task that normally should be accomplished in 1 to 2 minutes. “Down Hill Racer” had a micro floor pump that came in very handy allowing “GOG” to get a full 120 lbs of pressure into his rear tire. “TriTodd” took a picture of the pathetic tire changing effort and sent it from his phone to his Twitter site for all to enjoy. During this entire process Susanne was having a great time chit chatting in a bubbly tone about many subjects none of which this rider can remember. “I believe you must be on Prozac to be so DAMN HAPPY all the time” was the mean remark from “GOG”. “NOPE”, “ Just Beer and WINE” was Susanne’s quick response.
“GOG” only shook his head as he wished he could bottle some of Susanne’s “SPIRT of LIFE” and use it for himself.
Back into the saddle each rider now made their way to old US highway 1 and the path back towards home. The temperature was well into the low 90’s as they made the turn.
“Can We STOP”, “I need to use the restroom” was the plea from Susanne. “Yes, for you we will stop” was the reply. “Who needs Water” was the question from “Down Hill Racer”. Jeffery ended up buying the biggest jug of water available and shared with everyone. Thanks “Down Hill Racer”.
The group now started the long 15 + mile drive towards home. Old US 1 is full of rolling hills and NO SHADE. “TriTodd” took the lead position and lit it up to 22 – 24 mph up hills. His steady pace and position on the road allowed “GOG” to ride within 2 inches of his rear wheel. He road with a confidence level that had the pack roll past biker after biker, some of whom grabbed on to the end of the pace line. At one point “Slow Todd” had slid past “GOG” to take second position. Then after a couple more miles “TriTodd” rolled off the front putting “Slow Todd” in the pull position with “GOG” in second and “Down Hill Racer” in third followed by Suzanne. At this point those that had grabbed on earlier had since dropped off the back. “Slow Todd” pulled for a short distance than rolled off. “OH NO” “GOG” felt the sudden impact of trying to hold 24 mph uphill while tired. He suddenly knew there was trouble. “I can’t Hold this pace the best I might be able to do is 17” he shouted to those behind. As soon as he was done delivering that message he realized he was DONE. “SHIT” he mumbled as he was now pulling out of the pace line. “I am in trouble” he was heard telling “Slow Todd” as “GOG” continued to fall towards the rear of the pace line. “Down Hill Racer” was now in the pull position and decided he needed to ratchet the pace back up to 24 mph. “GOG” was now falling further off the pace and had no hope of jumping onto the rear wheel of Suzanne as the pace line bolted on head.
YES he BONKED. Just that quick with no warning “GOG” was spent. He worked his best to stay upright as his pace was now a struggle at 11 mph. The pack was no longer in sight and all the cyclists that had been passed earlier were now easily zooming past the wounded “GOG”. The town of Apex was still 5 miles away. “GOG” knew that he needed to find shade and cold water to help with his recovery from the BONK. Food would also help but would have to come much later due to the nauseous sensation swelling within him. His eyes were trying to roll to the back of his head forcing him to shake his head periodically as if that would keep his eyes looking forward.
Now with 1 mile to go he spotted two riders in the distance riding slowly as if to suggest he was gaining on them when in fact they were slowing more and more to close the gap. It was “Slow Todd” and Suzanne who were now gliding along waiting to envelop the lone rider. “You OK” “Slow Todd” asked.
“NO Man I am Spent”. The three limped into APEX were “TriTodd” and “Down Hill Racer” were waiting under a shade tree for the others to arrive. “GOG” guided his bike up a driveway and onto the sidewalk were the shade was waiting for him. He dismounted, laid down his bike, removed his helmet and cloves and sat himself down on the cool grass. “I will be OK, just need to recover for a few minutes, I know my way home from here, I have a phone, I will be OK, You guys go on, I do not want to hold you up” he spoke in a slurred manner. No one spoke they all just stared at this lump on the ground. Finally it was “Down Hill Racer” who said “You don’t look very good”. Everyone else continued to stare.
“I Bonk all the time, I just need to rest a few and then I will limp on to the finish”. “Please go on, do not wait on me to recover, If you don’t go you will force me to leave before I am ready too” again in a partial slurred form of speech.
“You would not leave Me” Suzanne said in a defiant tone.
“OK, I am ready” Kevin said as he stood.
“Woo”.
As soon as he stood Kevin was forced to bend over putting his head between his knees to keep from passing out.
Sitting back down Kevin was now found pulling his helmet to him as he then placed it under his head as a pillow now finding himself laying rather than sitting in the grass.
“OK” , “ I will call Theresa to come and get me” Kevin said in defeat.
That was what was needed for “TriTodd” and “Down Hill Racer” to have permission to finish the ride.
Suzanne and “Slow Todd” continued to monitor “GOG” for signs of shock until Theresa was seen approaching in the car.
The “Roses” completed 35 miles at a 16 mph pace. GREAT RIDE.
The “Thorns” were entertained by the antics of “Capn Carbon”, and “GOG” with “Capn Carbon” remaining with the pack he chased down and completed 80 miles at 19 mph average. While “GOG” provided entertainment value in his tire changing abilities and his trick in BONKING.
The “Thorns” who actually made it to the finish completed 46 miles.
No SUNDAY report.
"GOG" stayed in bed still working to recover from his BONK.
In checking his blood pressure that Sunday morning it was 100/55. That is a very low ready for "GOG" who takes medication for high blood pressure.
Rumor has it that Sunday's ride had many riders.
Some in attendance included.
Coach Dotson
Steve Cope
Todd Spain
Tim Travitz
Tim Deviney
Christy Miller
Jae Brainard
Theresa Smit
Jeffery Roussel
Josh Carter
Jill Fitzgibons
and at least 2 other of TRITODDS Triassholetes.
Several of the "Thorns" did the ride including Big Woods, and then jumped into the pack of Riders headed out from Cycling Spoken Here.
Sunday, April 05, 2009
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”.
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”.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
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.
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.
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