All signed up for 2014 LOTOJA. Should be interesting, no friends this year, its like back in the day when my only friends were the ones I made during the race.
Without complaining too much, it will be difficult this year, no doubt about it. Multiple physical deficits and reduced training time will really make a challenge out of it. Ah well, my own private battles...
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
Sunday, July 1, 2012
Just Thinking
Just thinking.
I consider this blog as a type of journal, race reports, training thoughts and general musings. I've had people suggest I write articles on cycling and such. Flattered, but I'm not compelled to do that. There are probably thousands of blogs and websites with far more information than I could provide. I just want to convey to anyone who would have interest (or no one) a few of the experiences I go through. And maybe in reading some of my previous posts, I can learn something...
That reminds me, I've got a few race reports from last year to jot down. Maybe later though, I've got a sexy looking salad calling my name...
I consider this blog as a type of journal, race reports, training thoughts and general musings. I've had people suggest I write articles on cycling and such. Flattered, but I'm not compelled to do that. There are probably thousands of blogs and websites with far more information than I could provide. I just want to convey to anyone who would have interest (or no one) a few of the experiences I go through. And maybe in reading some of my previous posts, I can learn something...
That reminds me, I've got a few race reports from last year to jot down. Maybe later though, I've got a sexy looking salad calling my name...
Monday, July 4, 2011
Life lately...
Can't seem to post to this blog from my ipad. Thought i'd get on my Mac just to keep this thing alive.
I've been riding the recumbent exclusively for the past 3 months (when I can) and i'm just starting to get the hang of it. Still a tough climber but fun on the downhills and flats. I get stares and fingers pointed at me frequently, are these bikes THAT rare?
I'm struggling with the decision I have to make of whether or not to do the HooDoo 500. I'm entered, but my training has been spotty with family and work responsibilities. Very, very difficult to decide.
On the one hand, I don't know anyone with so little training, who would be dumb enough to attempt this, it's an insanely tough race already and by doing the Voyager division... I should be committed.
On the other hand...
If I were to live by Teddy Roosevelt's quote, "Far better it is..." I should race regardless. Plus, (still on the other hand) it's not in me to back down from a challenge. It used to be, but that's another post...
Ok, back to the first hand. Have you ever ridden a recumbent? No? you're in for a treat. Sure, the weight is off your arms. Yes, you're body is more aerodynamic. Of course, it's fast in the flats and downhills. But climbing? I had an old woman in a wheelchair go around me up Kong. Regardless, there is 30,000 feet of climbing in HooDoo, it's no ride in the park.
I know...blah, blah, blah, so make up your mind. I will, this week or next. I guess it will just come to me as usual.
Other news, had a great time with the fam in southern California last week. Cool weather, beaches, Mormon Battalion visitor's center, and topped off with a crowded but fun Disneyland.
I miss my son Jared who is serving a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, in Portland Oregon. Just gotta get over the initial separation then emotions should normalize.
I'm getting older. I see and feel the changes and though not easy, I think i'm coping well. (probably ought to add that to the first hand ; )
Bye...
I've been riding the recumbent exclusively for the past 3 months (when I can) and i'm just starting to get the hang of it. Still a tough climber but fun on the downhills and flats. I get stares and fingers pointed at me frequently, are these bikes THAT rare?
I'm struggling with the decision I have to make of whether or not to do the HooDoo 500. I'm entered, but my training has been spotty with family and work responsibilities. Very, very difficult to decide.
On the one hand, I don't know anyone with so little training, who would be dumb enough to attempt this, it's an insanely tough race already and by doing the Voyager division... I should be committed.
On the other hand...
If I were to live by Teddy Roosevelt's quote, "Far better it is..." I should race regardless. Plus, (still on the other hand) it's not in me to back down from a challenge. It used to be, but that's another post...
Ok, back to the first hand. Have you ever ridden a recumbent? No? you're in for a treat. Sure, the weight is off your arms. Yes, you're body is more aerodynamic. Of course, it's fast in the flats and downhills. But climbing? I had an old woman in a wheelchair go around me up Kong. Regardless, there is 30,000 feet of climbing in HooDoo, it's no ride in the park.
I know...blah, blah, blah, so make up your mind. I will, this week or next. I guess it will just come to me as usual.
Other news, had a great time with the fam in southern California last week. Cool weather, beaches, Mormon Battalion visitor's center, and topped off with a crowded but fun Disneyland.
I miss my son Jared who is serving a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, in Portland Oregon. Just gotta get over the initial separation then emotions should normalize.
I'm getting older. I see and feel the changes and though not easy, I think i'm coping well. (probably ought to add that to the first hand ; )
Bye...
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Some people
Beautiful weather during this morning's ride. Haven't been out with a group in a while but thought it would be nice to see some familiar faces. The Thomas's were out of course, along with the usual "groupies".
Saw Lorie and Todd head out west on McDowell and Kim told me they were headed to 9-mile and pancakes.
I went to Saguaro and pulled over near the dam to watch some perching vultures for a while. A recumbent goes by so I took off with him for a chat. He's been riding his bent for about a year and loves it. His name is David Brake and it so happens he rode Mulholland last week (the race I couldn't do because of my neck status). He said it was the hardest thing he's ever done, or race, I can't remember. Anyways should be nice having another recumbent rider to ride with occasionally, maybe.
Randy Nunley came by and he said it was a tough race as well. Dang it !! We both talked about how we work too much and how we're gonna slow down a bit. He said one of his patients finally retired and died 8 months later, now his wife is dating and spending. Uh huh, I think a vacation is in order...
Came back via the Usery climb and half way up two men and a female passed me. I just happened to feel good at that time and picked up my pace a bit. I passed them back slowly, (I never want others to feel like I'm challenging them) and one of the men (a short stocky fellow with an Empire jersey) goes by me and stays just ahead of me. If I speed up he speeds up, if I slow down, he would slow down. I really didn't think a fellow cyclist would mess with another but I guess he felt like I challenged his manliness or something. We got to the top and I turned around to a repeat. He turned around as well and as he passed me says (cue condescending tone...) "I was hoping you were gonna push me to the top"
I shrugged it off but it started to bother me that this punk is trying some power play on a Saturday morning fun ride. I imagine he bragged to his friends how he put me in my place. I get so tired of some people sometimes. I'm just riding, I go very slowly around your friends and you think you're Lance? C'mon...
I thought of turning around and offering a little fatherly advice on life and etiquette but I felt this was the type of person who didn't want to hear it. So...I let it go.
Rode back up with Bridgette Verhaaren and Ruth Collins, great people and good conversation. Bridgette and Rob are going to Greece this summer and I am full of envy, sorry...I love Archaeology, I'm envious.
So I ended up riding 3 hours and will head back out in support of Kyle in 30 minutes. Shouldn't be too crazy, he hasn't ridden in a while and the pace should be easy. Maybe i'll practice what I learned this morning and ride just ahead of him, mark his every move and show him what a powerful rider I am...
Some people...
Saw Lorie and Todd head out west on McDowell and Kim told me they were headed to 9-mile and pancakes.
I went to Saguaro and pulled over near the dam to watch some perching vultures for a while. A recumbent goes by so I took off with him for a chat. He's been riding his bent for about a year and loves it. His name is David Brake and it so happens he rode Mulholland last week (the race I couldn't do because of my neck status). He said it was the hardest thing he's ever done, or race, I can't remember. Anyways should be nice having another recumbent rider to ride with occasionally, maybe.
Randy Nunley came by and he said it was a tough race as well. Dang it !! We both talked about how we work too much and how we're gonna slow down a bit. He said one of his patients finally retired and died 8 months later, now his wife is dating and spending. Uh huh, I think a vacation is in order...
Came back via the Usery climb and half way up two men and a female passed me. I just happened to feel good at that time and picked up my pace a bit. I passed them back slowly, (I never want others to feel like I'm challenging them) and one of the men (a short stocky fellow with an Empire jersey) goes by me and stays just ahead of me. If I speed up he speeds up, if I slow down, he would slow down. I really didn't think a fellow cyclist would mess with another but I guess he felt like I challenged his manliness or something. We got to the top and I turned around to a repeat. He turned around as well and as he passed me says (cue condescending tone...) "I was hoping you were gonna push me to the top"
I shrugged it off but it started to bother me that this punk is trying some power play on a Saturday morning fun ride. I imagine he bragged to his friends how he put me in my place. I get so tired of some people sometimes. I'm just riding, I go very slowly around your friends and you think you're Lance? C'mon...
I thought of turning around and offering a little fatherly advice on life and etiquette but I felt this was the type of person who didn't want to hear it. So...I let it go.
Rode back up with Bridgette Verhaaren and Ruth Collins, great people and good conversation. Bridgette and Rob are going to Greece this summer and I am full of envy, sorry...I love Archaeology, I'm envious.
So I ended up riding 3 hours and will head back out in support of Kyle in 30 minutes. Shouldn't be too crazy, he hasn't ridden in a while and the pace should be easy. Maybe i'll practice what I learned this morning and ride just ahead of him, mark his every move and show him what a powerful rider I am...
Some people...
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Vision Quest...
I'm entered in the HooDoo 500 i'm nervous to say. It would be nice to actually train for a race, maybe do a "Vision Quest" kinda thing.
I think i'm more stable now, with the thyroid replacement stuff and the recumbent ordered. The neck has greater mobility after the MUA and it looks like migraines may be a thing of the past because of it. I'm having some left arm radiculopathy (numbness) but I've been medicating for that and am hopeful. Blah, blah.. I just wanted to disclose my physical considerations.
So, I figure 4 months to the event should be adequate to prepare. Lots to consider besides training...lights, clothing, equipment, nutrition and mental status. Nutrition may be the most critical, it's everything to be hydrated and fed properly. I've been given the ok to race on my new Carbent Raven by the HooDoo organizers and i'm looking forward to the new challange.
Got a week to prepare for my training. I'll scour the internet for options and methods and hopefully work it out.
Wish me luck....
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
MUA DONE!
Procedure done. Had to wait a couple of months, but after much frustration and discomfort, I finally (and joyfully) got to have my prescribed surgery.
This morning, I had a procedure performed on me called a MUA or manipulation under anesthesia. This procedure is used to break-up scar tissue and help a patient regain full range of motion, in my case, my neck. Were not sure this will help me enough to overcome my neck pain during cycling but there is optimism. If it doesn't work, i'm not sure what the next step will be, but I assume it will either be more invasive or a drastic lifestyle change (no cycling)
I was prepped (changed into a gown, ekg, temp, h&p, etc.) then wheeled into a surgical room where I was transferred to a table. Got the O2 mask on and after 4 deep breaths I was gone. In my particular case, I was given a facet block injections under x-ray guidance to free up those joints so the manipulation would be more successful. Then my neck was adjusted and stretched beyond what a person could tolerate without anesthesia. Wake up was difficult as usual but I was finally able to come out of it and Meri brought me home.
Not sure about how it'll turn out but I hear results are statistically good. It's now 12 hours later and my neck is pretty stiff. I'm trying to stay positive and will do whatever is asked of me as far as rehabilitation goes.
I plan on riding Saturday and should know more then...
This morning, I had a procedure performed on me called a MUA or manipulation under anesthesia. This procedure is used to break-up scar tissue and help a patient regain full range of motion, in my case, my neck. Were not sure this will help me enough to overcome my neck pain during cycling but there is optimism. If it doesn't work, i'm not sure what the next step will be, but I assume it will either be more invasive or a drastic lifestyle change (no cycling)
I was prepped (changed into a gown, ekg, temp, h&p, etc.) then wheeled into a surgical room where I was transferred to a table. Got the O2 mask on and after 4 deep breaths I was gone. In my particular case, I was given a facet block injections under x-ray guidance to free up those joints so the manipulation would be more successful. Then my neck was adjusted and stretched beyond what a person could tolerate without anesthesia. Wake up was difficult as usual but I was finally able to come out of it and Meri brought me home.
Not sure about how it'll turn out but I hear results are statistically good. It's now 12 hours later and my neck is pretty stiff. I'm trying to stay positive and will do whatever is asked of me as far as rehabilitation goes.
I plan on riding Saturday and should know more then...
Sunday, February 27, 2011
My "Been Awhile" post
Just a quick update on things.
I was on a bike ride the other day and I was overcome with the thought "this just isn't fun anymore". I'm talking about my beloved sport of cycling. Or, to be more specific, how I feel WHEN I'm cycling. I've never, ever told myself that before, not even in my worst suffering.
The nagging, dull ache in my neck is finally getting the best of me. Still hits me at around 20 miles in and is unrelenting. I've tried different positions and stretching and good internal talk and prayer and I just think I'm done. My last option if my MUA (manipulation under anesthesia) doesn't help, is riding a recumbent. Yesterday I was riding around Las Sendas sitting completely upright with no hands and I felt some relief, that position takes all the head weight off my neck. That's why I believe a recumbent might be the ticket "positional correctness" I call it.
We'll see how it plays out, in the big picture of life it's not a huge deal but cycling is something that's important to me and I'd like to get back on track with endurance racing, even on a recumbent if I have to.
Better go.
I was on a bike ride the other day and I was overcome with the thought "this just isn't fun anymore". I'm talking about my beloved sport of cycling. Or, to be more specific, how I feel WHEN I'm cycling. I've never, ever told myself that before, not even in my worst suffering.
The nagging, dull ache in my neck is finally getting the best of me. Still hits me at around 20 miles in and is unrelenting. I've tried different positions and stretching and good internal talk and prayer and I just think I'm done. My last option if my MUA (manipulation under anesthesia) doesn't help, is riding a recumbent. Yesterday I was riding around Las Sendas sitting completely upright with no hands and I felt some relief, that position takes all the head weight off my neck. That's why I believe a recumbent might be the ticket "positional correctness" I call it.
We'll see how it plays out, in the big picture of life it's not a huge deal but cycling is something that's important to me and I'd like to get back on track with endurance racing, even on a recumbent if I have to.
Better go.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Coulda been squished today...
This just in...
As I was heading into Las Sendas this afternoon my life was spared by an attempted random act of kindness.
While riding my Nag east on Thomas Rd and just as I was entering the intersection at Power (with a green light) I slowed and asked two young girls who were on their bikes if they needed any help. They were stopped and fiddling with one of the girls bike chains on the right side of the intersection. Just as they said they were okay I looked up and saw a flash of blue just in front of my bike. Someone had ran a red light in a Minivan and I was a split second from death.
Not "I might have been hit and been hurt" I'm talking undoubtedly--death. The van was doing at least 50 plus and a second faster would have put me in front of the grill. That second or two it took to ask how they were saved my life.
It's funny how I didn't feel shaken by it, i've been close to IT quite a few times in my life and because it happens occasionally, I guess i'm used to it, I just shook it off and just kept riding.
My point of all this isn't how lucky I am or that I feel i've been preserved once more, my point is that helping others, or even just TRYING to help others may actually save your life ;-)
As I was heading into Las Sendas this afternoon my life was spared by an attempted random act of kindness.
While riding my Nag east on Thomas Rd and just as I was entering the intersection at Power (with a green light) I slowed and asked two young girls who were on their bikes if they needed any help. They were stopped and fiddling with one of the girls bike chains on the right side of the intersection. Just as they said they were okay I looked up and saw a flash of blue just in front of my bike. Someone had ran a red light in a Minivan and I was a split second from death.
Not "I might have been hit and been hurt" I'm talking undoubtedly--death. The van was doing at least 50 plus and a second faster would have put me in front of the grill. That second or two it took to ask how they were saved my life.
It's funny how I didn't feel shaken by it, i've been close to IT quite a few times in my life and because it happens occasionally, I guess i'm used to it, I just shook it off and just kept riding.
My point of all this isn't how lucky I am or that I feel i've been preserved once more, my point is that helping others, or even just TRYING to help others may actually save your life ;-)
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Bucket List
No, this is not my list, only an announcement that I am starting one. The family is gone for a few days and I want to try and open my mind.
I was about to Google some existing lists from other people and maybe borrow from them but had the impression that I want to come up with my own. My own list from my own twisted mind.
I hate to put a damper or limits on this thing, but I'm a bit older so some concessions I'm sure will have to be made. Regardless, I need to have something written down that I can strive towards. I never write things down, I guess I feel I'm bright enough to have goals in my head and at hand, but you know what they say about a goal not written down.
So, more to come. Maybe even disclose a few to the public...
I was about to Google some existing lists from other people and maybe borrow from them but had the impression that I want to come up with my own. My own list from my own twisted mind.
I hate to put a damper or limits on this thing, but I'm a bit older so some concessions I'm sure will have to be made. Regardless, I need to have something written down that I can strive towards. I never write things down, I guess I feel I'm bright enough to have goals in my head and at hand, but you know what they say about a goal not written down.
So, more to come. Maybe even disclose a few to the public...
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Tour de Safford
What to expect? Pain and discomfort for sure, maybe pull out a platinum, I don't know.
Tour de Safford was last weekend and though i'm glad I went, I probably should've done the 33 with my son.
Curtis Clifford, Taylor Auwen and I headed over on Friday and stayed in Thatcher with Meri's parents. We stopped in to the diner where Sterling had chosen as a carbo load dinner site but it was a no-go for us, we decided to go back to Thatcher and eat at the Hawaiian cafe there on Main St. I'm glad we did, it was good food and Curtis got to meet a famous volleyball coach and they chatted for about an hour. Then off to the in-laws and sleep.
The next morning we got up late, and got to the start line just about 1 minutes before the gun went off. Nice controlled start, one rider went down on a cattle guard and was out cold, people were helping so I rode on.
I was doing well enough to be in the lead pack until about 1/2 mile from the top of the longest climb. I had to decide whether to redline and stay with them or hang back with Curtis. I felt with my compact gearing I wouldn't be able to stay the LP on the downhill so I decided to fall back with a slower pack. Different pack, same anticipated result, they got away from me on the steep downhill. I was riding at the back and looked up to see a gap, couldn't cross because I was spun out and that was it, 60 miles miles to the finish and nearly all of it solo.
Every now and then i'd ride along with someone but they'd either fall off or stop at the aid stations. When I was on the highway near Safford, Meri texted me to let me know I still had 6 minutes to get Platinum, I immediately let-up and soft pedeled because I knew that wasn't going to happen, 5 miles and a steep uphill to go and I was alone. So, I just rode in easy and finished in 5:14.
The neck was highly bothersome, I would try and ride as upright as I could, stretch and down the Advil but still a nuisance. Chiropractic is next on the list of remedies.
Curtis did well, he finished around 4:58 and in Platinum time. I was proud of my son Taylor, he hadn't trained so he did the 33. He finished 3rd out of about 50 people and did so with no water and on low tires, he forgot his water and didn't check is pressure, live and learn...
I like this race, I like the openess and the friendly people. I'll be back next year and hopefully in better all-around condition.
Tour de Safford was last weekend and though i'm glad I went, I probably should've done the 33 with my son.
Curtis Clifford, Taylor Auwen and I headed over on Friday and stayed in Thatcher with Meri's parents. We stopped in to the diner where Sterling had chosen as a carbo load dinner site but it was a no-go for us, we decided to go back to Thatcher and eat at the Hawaiian cafe there on Main St. I'm glad we did, it was good food and Curtis got to meet a famous volleyball coach and they chatted for about an hour. Then off to the in-laws and sleep.
The next morning we got up late, and got to the start line just about 1 minutes before the gun went off. Nice controlled start, one rider went down on a cattle guard and was out cold, people were helping so I rode on.
I was doing well enough to be in the lead pack until about 1/2 mile from the top of the longest climb. I had to decide whether to redline and stay with them or hang back with Curtis. I felt with my compact gearing I wouldn't be able to stay the LP on the downhill so I decided to fall back with a slower pack. Different pack, same anticipated result, they got away from me on the steep downhill. I was riding at the back and looked up to see a gap, couldn't cross because I was spun out and that was it, 60 miles miles to the finish and nearly all of it solo.
Every now and then i'd ride along with someone but they'd either fall off or stop at the aid stations. When I was on the highway near Safford, Meri texted me to let me know I still had 6 minutes to get Platinum, I immediately let-up and soft pedeled because I knew that wasn't going to happen, 5 miles and a steep uphill to go and I was alone. So, I just rode in easy and finished in 5:14.
The neck was highly bothersome, I would try and ride as upright as I could, stretch and down the Advil but still a nuisance. Chiropractic is next on the list of remedies.
Curtis did well, he finished around 4:58 and in Platinum time. I was proud of my son Taylor, he hadn't trained so he did the 33. He finished 3rd out of about 50 people and did so with no water and on low tires, he forgot his water and didn't check is pressure, live and learn...
I like this race, I like the openess and the friendly people. I'll be back next year and hopefully in better all-around condition.
Friday, October 29, 2010
Just relax...
Okay, I'm going to Safford for a road race tomorrow and i've never felt so pessimistic. It's just feels like it's not gonna work, I just don't feel up to the challange.
I don't know how my neck will tolerate it, for sure medication and I guess my wife will be around to pick me up if need be. Besides that, I'm absolutely out-of-shape and out of "determination" that follows race fitness.
This may be my last "race" depending on what the next 6 months brings. I will be doing a fitness program starting next week that may help and I've been considering chiropractic though I have skepicism about it.
Just re-read what i've written and it sounds so gloomy, I don't mean to be, just being a realist. Gotta be patient I guess and relax. I'm going over with Curtis Clifford and my son Taylor so that'll be fun. It's the first Tour de Safford and first races are great, I love the chaos.
So my word for this weekend is...RELAX
I don't know how my neck will tolerate it, for sure medication and I guess my wife will be around to pick me up if need be. Besides that, I'm absolutely out-of-shape and out of "determination" that follows race fitness.
This may be my last "race" depending on what the next 6 months brings. I will be doing a fitness program starting next week that may help and I've been considering chiropractic though I have skepicism about it.
Just re-read what i've written and it sounds so gloomy, I don't mean to be, just being a realist. Gotta be patient I guess and relax. I'm going over with Curtis Clifford and my son Taylor so that'll be fun. It's the first Tour de Safford and first races are great, I love the chaos.
So my word for this weekend is...RELAX
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
I am a cyclist
For the past 5 weeks I have been undergoing physical therapy treatments on my neck. Cycling and just about any physical activity has been highly limited. I feel like E-Mac must've felt with his neck but hopefully I can work it out and not have a surgeon fillet me up like Eric did. The stiffness is nearly gone thanks to PT. After my little "see how it feels" ride of about 25 miles, my neck locks up, it's momentary when it happens but scary regardless. Not sure what to make of it, kind of a localized spontaneous radiculopathy. Hopefully the MRI i'm having this week will shed a little light. If not, i'll have to assume arthritis unless my doc gives me some kind of alternate diagnosis.
I've always considered myself an endurance cyclist but that may change depending on my progression or lack there-of. Sobering thoughts are swimming around inside my head; "maybe I can ride with some kind of neck brace, maybe it's something that be fixed, maybe I can take up rowing, maybe I should sell my beloved bikes and never ride again..." Regardless, i'll give it a bit more time and ride occasionally to experience the after effects and my fate.
I hesitate writing these thoughts, I guess if the the only people who read this blog are close friends, then maybe they'll learn why they don't see me out on my bike anymore.
Tour de Safford is over for me, funny thing is, out of excitement, I was probably the first person to sign-up, and now I can't even do the 33 miler, let alone the 102. Same disappointment not being able to do the 234 Cochise, new course and bike, good fitness, just the little problem of my neck not being able to tolerate riding it.
I know life isn't automatic, you just don't expect to possibly lose one of the most passionate parts of your life due to a negligent driver who was probably texting.
I think Carla was trying to console me by telling me: "Cycling isn't who you are, it's just something you do. It doesn't define you" or something to that effect. At first I agreed, it made sense but a few days later I didn't feel that way at all. Cycling does define me, it has taught me and has changed me into the man I am today. I was undefined before I took up the sport 20 years ago. I didn't know who I was. I never thought I could ride 8 miles back then but when I did, I realized it was within me to be able to ride that far. And so that's how i've progessed and allowed cycling to define me. At one time I didn't think I could ride 100 miles, but did it. 252? impossible but did it practically solo. 520 miler? yes, I discovered that it's within me. I have been tempered and refined, so yes, I can do it, it's who I am and what i'm known for. I have the ability to suffer, and I learned alot about suffering from cycling. So no Carla, I respectfully disagree, cycling is not just something I do, it IS who I am.
Whatever, i'm whining too much...
I've always considered myself an endurance cyclist but that may change depending on my progression or lack there-of. Sobering thoughts are swimming around inside my head; "maybe I can ride with some kind of neck brace, maybe it's something that be fixed, maybe I can take up rowing, maybe I should sell my beloved bikes and never ride again..." Regardless, i'll give it a bit more time and ride occasionally to experience the after effects and my fate.
I hesitate writing these thoughts, I guess if the the only people who read this blog are close friends, then maybe they'll learn why they don't see me out on my bike anymore.
Tour de Safford is over for me, funny thing is, out of excitement, I was probably the first person to sign-up, and now I can't even do the 33 miler, let alone the 102. Same disappointment not being able to do the 234 Cochise, new course and bike, good fitness, just the little problem of my neck not being able to tolerate riding it.
I know life isn't automatic, you just don't expect to possibly lose one of the most passionate parts of your life due to a negligent driver who was probably texting.
I think Carla was trying to console me by telling me: "Cycling isn't who you are, it's just something you do. It doesn't define you" or something to that effect. At first I agreed, it made sense but a few days later I didn't feel that way at all. Cycling does define me, it has taught me and has changed me into the man I am today. I was undefined before I took up the sport 20 years ago. I didn't know who I was. I never thought I could ride 8 miles back then but when I did, I realized it was within me to be able to ride that far. And so that's how i've progessed and allowed cycling to define me. At one time I didn't think I could ride 100 miles, but did it. 252? impossible but did it practically solo. 520 miler? yes, I discovered that it's within me. I have been tempered and refined, so yes, I can do it, it's who I am and what i'm known for. I have the ability to suffer, and I learned alot about suffering from cycling. So no Carla, I respectfully disagree, cycling is not just something I do, it IS who I am.
Whatever, i'm whining too much...
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Burnin' Love
Hello,
Nice ride yesterday, started out fine then ended in a bit of misery. Wanted to ride solo as usual so I timed my departure to start after the group ride start. I should have known someone in the group would've had a flat. I rode by and heard muffled jeering from some of my friends, nevertheless I was able to ride another 15 miles before they would catch me. I decided to ride along with the group but as we arrived at Rio Verde the group slowed and I took off. I didn't know I had a follower until I turned left to climb 9-mile hill, he was a new Brumby rider and told me he was from Oklahoma. I suspected he was a new AZ transplant when he thought we were heading south as we climbed up the 9. I had a specific pace I wanted to do so after talking awhile I suggested he jump on a small pack that was overtaking us, he did and I watched them pull away. Another small group went by towards the top of the climb. I noticed Julie Huish and Nicole Susco in that group and I thought about how much they've improved their cycling fitness, very impressive (very nice people as well).
When I got to the top we fed and watered and chatted. I was then persuaded by David Hatfield to keep riding on to Seven Springs. I hesitated as did Grant Taylor because it was already heating up and the small amount of cloud cover was becoming ever-thinner. But, we caved and off we went. After about 10 miles Grant and I decided to turn around and scurry home while we we were still able. We went home the Pima road way, it was flatter and we thought maybe faster but the constant waiting at traffic lights made it worse in terms of speed and heat discomfort. Grant and I stopped one last time at the Shell station on Pima then pushed the final 10 or so miles for home.
I've ridden in a lot of hot weather and I'm no stranger to discomfort but that final push was VERY warm, especially with the high humidity. Desperation is the one word that comes to mind those last few miles. I know Grant would agree, we were spent and done with the heat.
I spoke with David that night and he told me he, Wayne Smith and Mike Skousen decided to get picked up in Fountain Hills by Mike's wife, same problem, the heat that day was just overwhelming and for sure dangerous.
We all lived to tell the tale but if i'm riding a century in the Arizona, in July, i'm heading out at 2 0r 3 a.m. I knew better, I'm usually riding that early but needed to sleep in that morning.
In summary, I believe 115 degrees is great if...I can read about it from Alaska.
Nice ride yesterday, started out fine then ended in a bit of misery. Wanted to ride solo as usual so I timed my departure to start after the group ride start. I should have known someone in the group would've had a flat. I rode by and heard muffled jeering from some of my friends, nevertheless I was able to ride another 15 miles before they would catch me. I decided to ride along with the group but as we arrived at Rio Verde the group slowed and I took off. I didn't know I had a follower until I turned left to climb 9-mile hill, he was a new Brumby rider and told me he was from Oklahoma. I suspected he was a new AZ transplant when he thought we were heading south as we climbed up the 9. I had a specific pace I wanted to do so after talking awhile I suggested he jump on a small pack that was overtaking us, he did and I watched them pull away. Another small group went by towards the top of the climb. I noticed Julie Huish and Nicole Susco in that group and I thought about how much they've improved their cycling fitness, very impressive (very nice people as well).
When I got to the top we fed and watered and chatted. I was then persuaded by David Hatfield to keep riding on to Seven Springs. I hesitated as did Grant Taylor because it was already heating up and the small amount of cloud cover was becoming ever-thinner. But, we caved and off we went. After about 10 miles Grant and I decided to turn around and scurry home while we we were still able. We went home the Pima road way, it was flatter and we thought maybe faster but the constant waiting at traffic lights made it worse in terms of speed and heat discomfort. Grant and I stopped one last time at the Shell station on Pima then pushed the final 10 or so miles for home.
I've ridden in a lot of hot weather and I'm no stranger to discomfort but that final push was VERY warm, especially with the high humidity. Desperation is the one word that comes to mind those last few miles. I know Grant would agree, we were spent and done with the heat.
I spoke with David that night and he told me he, Wayne Smith and Mike Skousen decided to get picked up in Fountain Hills by Mike's wife, same problem, the heat that day was just overwhelming and for sure dangerous.
We all lived to tell the tale but if i'm riding a century in the Arizona, in July, i'm heading out at 2 0r 3 a.m. I knew better, I'm usually riding that early but needed to sleep in that morning.
In summary, I believe 115 degrees is great if...I can read about it from Alaska.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
One is the loneliest number
Been riding alot on my own lately. I just enjoy my own pace and not the ebb and flo's of the pack. Plus, I've had this odd feeling that one of these packs are due for a crash. I don't hope for this of course, but when I assume my spot in the rear of the packs I see inexperience and carelessness, it's just a matter of time.
Some of my fast friends don't understand my solo riding, they tell me I'm "not very social". Here are a few reasons for my loner behavior.
-As mentioned earlier, I like pushing the speed I want, for as long as I want.
-Self-preservation (also mentioned above).
-I LOVE MUSIC. (hard to carry a conversation when I'm trying to groove)
-Music also drowns-out the crunchy sound of Crepitus in my right knee. Am I kidding? Ask me to demonstate sometime.
-I'm slower. Yes, it's true, my blinding speed has diminished with age.
So there's my reasons, or excuses for this behavior and i'm okay with all of them...
Some of my fast friends don't understand my solo riding, they tell me I'm "not very social". Here are a few reasons for my loner behavior.
-As mentioned earlier, I like pushing the speed I want, for as long as I want.
-Self-preservation (also mentioned above).
-I LOVE MUSIC. (hard to carry a conversation when I'm trying to groove)
-Music also drowns-out the crunchy sound of Crepitus in my right knee. Am I kidding? Ask me to demonstate sometime.
-I'm slower. Yes, it's true, my blinding speed has diminished with age.
So there's my reasons, or excuses for this behavior and i'm okay with all of them...
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Good morning...
Had a good morning, couldn't go on the 100 miler with the LOTOJA guys because I had a scheduled ultrasound at 0730. Rode to work then headed out on the bike.
Nice pace, great weather, flowing along. Rode past a young inexperienced rider heading the other way. I felt uneasy because he looked like he was struggling so I turned around to check on him. He had no water so I asked him if he wanted some, he said "I'll take all I can get". I had been out quite a while so I didn't have much but I gave him most of what I did. After a quick chat on preparedness I rode on.
I've lost a little weight and I've been feeling better on the bike. Also, I've been eating Chia seeds, they are a great little supplement but I'll have to post on them later, turns out I lost 6.5 pounds on my ride and need to rehydrate stat.
So, good deed, good ride and hopefully a productive day ahead.
Nice pace, great weather, flowing along. Rode past a young inexperienced rider heading the other way. I felt uneasy because he looked like he was struggling so I turned around to check on him. He had no water so I asked him if he wanted some, he said "I'll take all I can get". I had been out quite a while so I didn't have much but I gave him most of what I did. After a quick chat on preparedness I rode on.
I've lost a little weight and I've been feeling better on the bike. Also, I've been eating Chia seeds, they are a great little supplement but I'll have to post on them later, turns out I lost 6.5 pounds on my ride and need to rehydrate stat.
So, good deed, good ride and hopefully a productive day ahead.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Quick update
Funny, but it's been awhile since i've been on and I had to struggle to remember my password.
All is well I guess. Currently working on "leaning-up" and getting base miles in on the bike. Thinking about applying for Cardiac U/S school so that will slow me up for 9 months but it wouldn't start till October so my Lotoja race is safe.
Alright, enough written, gotta take baby steps back to bloghood...
All is well I guess. Currently working on "leaning-up" and getting base miles in on the bike. Thinking about applying for Cardiac U/S school so that will slow me up for 9 months but it wouldn't start till October so my Lotoja race is safe.
Alright, enough written, gotta take baby steps back to bloghood...
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
I need a vacation...
Been awhile, I know. My heart just isn't in it lately, and i'm not quite sure why. I'm shutting down a bit and want to focus on other things in my life. I guess they call it "prioritizing"
Too many feelings and too many wonderings to make public. I'll be back someday after I get some kind of grasp on things.
Wish I could take my struggle to another locale but here is where my responsibilities are.
Bye for now...
Too many feelings and too many wonderings to make public. I'll be back someday after I get some kind of grasp on things.
Wish I could take my struggle to another locale but here is where my responsibilities are.
Bye for now...
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Good words
I probably should read more (a rare event for me), i've come across a quote and a poem that I really enjoy.
The quote is from a speech by my favorite president Teddy Roosevelt. A portion is as follows...It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.
The poem is titled: "Invictus" by William Ernest Henley
How charged with punishments the scroll,
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.
The quote is from a speech by my favorite president Teddy Roosevelt. A portion is as follows...It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.
The poem is titled: "Invictus" by William Ernest Henley
Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.
In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.
Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the Horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
Finds and shall find me unafraid.
How charged with punishments the scroll,
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Christmas babbling
Lonely tonight in my apathy towards Christmas. Do I recognize the value in celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ? Of course I do, I could just do without the materialism. I'm just not into the stress of gift hunting. I consider myself a respectable giver by nature and I try to do so throughout the year, spontaneously though.
Not sure where this attitude comes from, upbringing maybe? Maybe learned through observation? I don't know. It feels like my birthday...just another day and I can't help it.
Can't write tonight, and i've been in a writing slump lately. I have hope in the future of a well-adjusted Jim though, a well-balanced Jim of old, full of motivation and self-discipline.
That's is my quest, my journey, my resolve. So, Merry Christmas, may we all find peace in our hearts and bliss in our lives is my yearning.
Not sure where this attitude comes from, upbringing maybe? Maybe learned through observation? I don't know. It feels like my birthday...just another day and I can't help it.
Can't write tonight, and i've been in a writing slump lately. I have hope in the future of a well-adjusted Jim though, a well-balanced Jim of old, full of motivation and self-discipline.
That's is my quest, my journey, my resolve. So, Merry Christmas, may we all find peace in our hearts and bliss in our lives is my yearning.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Just a good ride
No self-glorification here, I just wanted to share.
I went out for a very brief road bike ride yesterday and I think I learned something about karma, along with an affirmation about the joys of service. As I was heading out I found myself "minding somebody else's business". I saw a car with it's flashers on, sitting on the opposite side of the road just past Higley. I couldn't help it, even though I was making all the lights, pushing it like Cancellara, and in a flow, I felt I should try and assist.
As I rolled up to the car, the window was opening and an elderly woman greets me. She tells me "bless you, i've been here half an hour and you're the only person who's stopped and tried to help me". I was a bit stunned but not surprised, busy people, busy lives. "Me" attitudes seem to be everywhere.
Anyways, she said she had help coming and sent me away with a "thank you for being so kind". After the crappy day i'd had, I felt really, really good about my decision to pull over.
Lesson learned; when fighting the blues, counting blessings is nice but a random act of kindness is HUGE.
Also, later down the road I hit a rock that according to my vast cycling experience should have sliced my tire... it didn't. I don't know much about karma, but that incident seemed like the "good" kind.
I went out for a very brief road bike ride yesterday and I think I learned something about karma, along with an affirmation about the joys of service. As I was heading out I found myself "minding somebody else's business". I saw a car with it's flashers on, sitting on the opposite side of the road just past Higley. I couldn't help it, even though I was making all the lights, pushing it like Cancellara, and in a flow, I felt I should try and assist.
As I rolled up to the car, the window was opening and an elderly woman greets me. She tells me "bless you, i've been here half an hour and you're the only person who's stopped and tried to help me". I was a bit stunned but not surprised, busy people, busy lives. "Me" attitudes seem to be everywhere.
Anyways, she said she had help coming and sent me away with a "thank you for being so kind". After the crappy day i'd had, I felt really, really good about my decision to pull over.
Lesson learned; when fighting the blues, counting blessings is nice but a random act of kindness is HUGE.
Also, later down the road I hit a rock that according to my vast cycling experience should have sliced my tire... it didn't. I don't know much about karma, but that incident seemed like the "good" kind.
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