Saturday, June 20, 2009
Friday, June 19, 2009
will the racers start your engines!
what happened 2day
for the 2 readers of this blog...we had a lot to do today. we had inspections and then it ended with introductions of the competition...it was neat to see it all. lots of impressive people with many years of raam under their belts.
we have a major task in front of us...with many years of experience and endless ambition to push us forward. we are ready
ac
once the race starts - we will have two primary writers when we can as Tim and I are not on the same team. should be fun. also - when needed we will have updates phoned in and sent forward. tomorrow at 2 pm is the zero hour....here we go...
Thursday, June 18, 2009
time zones... raam 09 personal
well, tim got this neat o fanito super mini pc that picks up some wifi signals - thus allowing us to blog in wifi areas etc...like the bathroom of the hotel for instance. its 515 am in cali and my body sez its 715. i am pretty amped up right now...sleep is good but i have had plenty while the other guys have driver over 30 hours in 2 days...they are beat.
today...we have to get raam materials, groceries, get a 20 mile light spin in, get ready to receive brett, brad, jim, terry and jeff, get the zipp wheels ready on the bikes, the list gets longer the more I think about it so I will stop thinking right now.
the chemistry is good, we are all firing on all cylinders, focus is strong and I miss my family - I love you! I got to call home last night to sing my secret tuck in song with maria...we are still on the "here comes US uncle Sam" song...sorry, I cant sing it for you...only the kids!
enjoy your day. it seems we have total web access as we get ready. we can upload and download pics from phones/cameras etc... i love technology
more to come today from sunny and expensive california
ac
today...we have to get raam materials, groceries, get a 20 mile light spin in, get ready to receive brett, brad, jim, terry and jeff, get the zipp wheels ready on the bikes, the list gets longer the more I think about it so I will stop thinking right now.
the chemistry is good, we are all firing on all cylinders, focus is strong and I miss my family - I love you! I got to call home last night to sing my secret tuck in song with maria...we are still on the "here comes US uncle Sam" song...sorry, I cant sing it for you...only the kids!
enjoy your day. it seems we have total web access as we get ready. we can upload and download pics from phones/cameras etc... i love technology
more to come today from sunny and expensive california
ac
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
day one of redefining adventure
in my down time here, i had read the raam rules many times, placed many calls checking on MN crew driving, had sushi for the first time (i like steak and burgers better) and talked about camp odayin, training, goals, the struggle and the impeding joy of our hard work...it will be there and it would not have come this far without all of you.
so...tomorrow is a crazy new day filled with more of the same bits - simple joy.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Friday, June 12, 2009
thursday night ride...
headed out for an easy ride which turned out to be an interval ride. broke off to get back to the shop early so that i could finalize the issues with the raam golden boy 928. minor issues with the d-rail hanger. 90% of the group did the monticello route and John, Dave and myself went through Albertville and did a good mix of easy/hard efforts...nothing to blow the legs up...super great weather for sure!
in the parade tonight - i think - see ya in CALI soon!
ac
in the parade tonight - i think - see ya in CALI soon!
ac
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Tuesday, June 09, 2009
the last....more than normal effort ride
Staying true to my "training plan", I opted to head out on this calm, overcast and cool-humid evening with the tuesday night crew. We had a full plate of regulars and everyone seemed itchy to put some efforts down on the road. Let's see...Melinda, Amy, Madonna, Holly, B-train, Willpower, Jorge of Mexico and myself (did I miss anyone?)...I am pretty sure it was eight.
We headed out without a real game plan and then in Fletcher we decided on Neilorator - its a great ride full of a mix of many things - signs, hills, well placed stops, clean roads (st. michael is a bit messy) and of course the rollers on 144. Lots of talk about RAAM, training, plans etc....and then of course the lead outs from Melinda, Amy, Bernie, Willpower - heck, everyone was itchin to pull some big efforts - A big kudo's to Holly for pulling double duty on a big ride last night and then tonight as well!
Great to see everyone tonight and my hats off to a well done, hard effort ride - it will be my last for a week or so....time to connect with the family prior to lift-off. Enjoy the week...the rest of my rides will be light, with the kids and on my single speed in the dirt.
My bike was boxed up today and awaits shipping orders to CA. Have a safe trip blue!
ac
We headed out without a real game plan and then in Fletcher we decided on Neilorator - its a great ride full of a mix of many things - signs, hills, well placed stops, clean roads (st. michael is a bit messy) and of course the rollers on 144. Lots of talk about RAAM, training, plans etc....and then of course the lead outs from Melinda, Amy, Bernie, Willpower - heck, everyone was itchin to pull some big efforts - A big kudo's to Holly for pulling double duty on a big ride last night and then tonight as well!
Great to see everyone tonight and my hats off to a well done, hard effort ride - it will be my last for a week or so....time to connect with the family prior to lift-off. Enjoy the week...the rest of my rides will be light, with the kids and on my single speed in the dirt.
My bike was boxed up today and awaits shipping orders to CA. Have a safe trip blue!
ac
Sunday, June 07, 2009
RAAM Group Ride from AMY's...
Great ride - Amy said it all on the email...Quang had all the pics with video...these are the ones I pulled..
Thursday, June 04, 2009
the ride
Had a cold for the past 4 days...no riding...work has been busy and lots to do prior to RAAM so the time was well spent. Headed out with 6 west of town (Dan, Jorge, Me, Pat, Steve and Jeff). I hope you all had a chance to ride on this perfect day. Dan, Jorge and Steve opted to ride the 144 and the rest of us headed to Albertville. Great weather and Pat did a great job laying the hammer on the hills. Mostly just chatted about Raam, mariage, kids, weddings, funny stories and the like - calm and steady.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
North to Branch
This Sat I will be biking to North Branch for a high school graduation party. Should be fun to track out some new routes etc...The party is actually in Wyoming MN but if I go to N.Branch I can get 100 miles for the day with a few laps in the parking lot to get the needed distance...
Busy week at work - busy week in getting ready for RAAM - busy week getting over allergies.
Andrew
Busy week at work - busy week in getting ready for RAAM - busy week getting over allergies.
Andrew
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Pincus Style...
Rode the century ride today from the shop...Fletcher, Medina, Watertown, Buffalo, Monticello, Otsego...then home...I am sure i missed a few towns in there. The wind was stiff from the north or NE or what what have you. We had 9 at one point? Ended with 5 and we had Dave Pincus with and this was his first century ride - ever. He did great - did some big lead outs, wanted to lead and push the pace and that he did....see there is a big difference between a 60 mile ride and a 100 mile ride - Dave found that out today. We found out that Dave has super powers and should NOT be scared to ride with ANYONE. Great job Dave and we all think you did superb!
lots of sign racing - Bernie got the Otsego prime, I got a handful but the super was mine in a sprint with Neil - it was a full and wonderful day of biking with neat people just having fun and it was competative.
I am sure Neil will have a much better update
andrew
lots of sign racing - Bernie got the Otsego prime, I got a handful but the super was mine in a sprint with Neil - it was a full and wonderful day of biking with neat people just having fun and it was competative.
I am sure Neil will have a much better update
andrew
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Physically there...
Thursday night ride. We did the Albertville ride in reverse and we wont do that again. Traffic was horrible and well...that is enough about that. My brain is almost gone...it was gone before but its really getting toasty these days. I felt like I was riding in the twilight zone - there but not there.
Did some extended burn intervals off the front by myself - chased a big county sign prime sprinting from the back to take it from Jorge at 43 mph....then I almost died when my front tire about came off - I know - its like the cardinal rule to check skewers...
headed back in the park - got home to mentally turn off and physically relax
Did some extended burn intervals off the front by myself - chased a big county sign prime sprinting from the back to take it from Jorge at 43 mph....then I almost died when my front tire about came off - I know - its like the cardinal rule to check skewers...
headed back in the park - got home to mentally turn off and physically relax
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Monday, May 25, 2009
Sunday, May 24, 2009
single speed sunday
in my efforts to balance family and bike - and it normally has not worked that well recently - I was able to sneak out for a ride in the park while the family went to the EC park...took the off road paths down to the playground and zig-zaged back on the trails to get home as well...figured about 15 miles of double track on the colnago ss.
the off-road stuff sure seems easier than last year - thank you RAAM. I kept the 36x17 gearing on the 29er and whistled through the woods at a high cadence. It was a good recovery ride after yesterdays all hills century adventure....no, its not like riding in Afton for a 100 but close. Ohio street sure gets your attention.
After the ride - church...after church was ice cream and a game of catch with tha boyz...and Pete caught a beaner from David in the left eye....it sure puffed up something fierce...poor kid. after the pain subsided - he was chasing Maria around the house trying to scare her with his Frankenstein eye...it worked. Peter is good for freaking Maria out.
great day and maybe even a ride tomorrow.
the off-road stuff sure seems easier than last year - thank you RAAM. I kept the 36x17 gearing on the 29er and whistled through the woods at a high cadence. It was a good recovery ride after yesterdays all hills century adventure....no, its not like riding in Afton for a 100 but close. Ohio street sure gets your attention.
After the ride - church...after church was ice cream and a game of catch with tha boyz...and Pete caught a beaner from David in the left eye....it sure puffed up something fierce...poor kid. after the pain subsided - he was chasing Maria around the house trying to scare her with his Frankenstein eye...it worked. Peter is good for freaking Maria out.
great day and maybe even a ride tomorrow.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Century Caturday
Headed to the stone arch ride from Dayton, intercepted Mel at 694, got a call from Hogland that a bunch of NW TH riders were heading to downtown from the 318 in Minnetonka area - I never got that email about that ride...hmmmmmm. Once at stone arch - we met Dave, Bergerbergermeister, Jorge and his Raul Alcala story, Larry and John R and we all headed to Shepherd road...once at the base their group headed home and Mel and I took to the tour of hills - High bridge, over to Lillydale hill (down), over to Ohio (up) and then repeated that loop again (lillydale/ohio circuit), down the bridge, up Ramsey hill and back down summit. Mel took off about mid way back to UM campus and I ate at Dunn Bros and got home - 98 miles at the shop with a 4 mile ride home - just over 100 for the day....perfect day and Mel climbs really fast.
good to see everyone...once home we went to Culver's with the family, cub foods and now the kids are destroying eachother with jedi type moves...I am going to nap for 30 mins I think.
ac
good to see everyone...once home we went to Culver's with the family, cub foods and now the kids are destroying eachother with jedi type moves...I am going to nap for 30 mins I think.
ac
Thursday, May 21, 2009
thursday night fight
good night..was not ready...bike was not ready.
posted a time for the benchmark for the TT deal. PERFECT weather for a TT.
I was at the shop prior to the roll-out and Larry was looking at the drive train on the cannondale and mentioned that you could actually hear the bearings in my rear hub grinding...oh...so that's not a good thing...the good thing is that they are FSA and the bearing assembly is replaceable...but no way to replace them prior to the ride...not sure how much that would affect my time but Im sure it has something to do with efficiency. Later i noticed that the bottom bracket is doing the same...man, how long have i been riding with mashed bearings on that bike?
The group was a great - we all did the TT then did a 30 mile ride into the dusk hours....fast at times...i was wiped and not ready to hammer so I should have sat in but its not easy to do that with Hogland chompin at the bit.
super prime was Dave's...a bit of cat/mouse and with the group making an effort to bridge - Dave and I jumped the sprint and i led him to victory....i did swear as he wheeled me at the line. my thoughts...i got the better workout...and i am sticking to that story... great riding with you Dave - you always make me think twice...and hey...great job on the victory the other weekend!
ac
posted a time for the benchmark for the TT deal. PERFECT weather for a TT.
I was at the shop prior to the roll-out and Larry was looking at the drive train on the cannondale and mentioned that you could actually hear the bearings in my rear hub grinding...oh...so that's not a good thing...the good thing is that they are FSA and the bearing assembly is replaceable...but no way to replace them prior to the ride...not sure how much that would affect my time but Im sure it has something to do with efficiency. Later i noticed that the bottom bracket is doing the same...man, how long have i been riding with mashed bearings on that bike?
The group was a great - we all did the TT then did a 30 mile ride into the dusk hours....fast at times...i was wiped and not ready to hammer so I should have sat in but its not easy to do that with Hogland chompin at the bit.
super prime was Dave's...a bit of cat/mouse and with the group making an effort to bridge - Dave and I jumped the sprint and i led him to victory....i did swear as he wheeled me at the line. my thoughts...i got the better workout...and i am sticking to that story... great riding with you Dave - you always make me think twice...and hey...great job on the victory the other weekend!
ac
more random thoughts and run on sentences and mis used punctuation
With so much on my mind pertaining to RAAM it is easy to forget what fuels me beyond my impending goals.
This bike race called RAAM has been on my mind for about the past 2 years and really on my mind since last July – and now we are 30 days or less away. I have been thinking a ton about what makes me want to pursue things beyond my comprehension…and really…RAAM is amazing but more so on the solo end so I don’t want to get ahead of myself here..but all the same…this is huge – for me.
I hesitated the other day when I was consumed with all things about bikes, this race etc…was this race a defining moment in my life? Was this going to be it? Did I have plans for anything else as spectacular? I was almost ashamed to even have to think about this one…of course not. Each day my eyes open in the morning – slower on some days – my family is the reminder that all I do is worthy of my best effort and that my family is a continual defining moment of joy.
I have been through some rather scary moments in life as a husband/father in the past few years – questioning my resolve to the core. We have had times of complete failure when we had nothing further to loose. My family has been steadfast to support me as a husband and father without question through these times – scared and hopeful. So I guess today I am reminded that RAAM is not a part of my life that finishes who I am but builds it further but as a father and husband – these…these things will last as a reminder of why we get up…get out…and then live.
So in a weird way – I want to give this race to my family as they have given up so much to have me prepare for this journey. I cant imagine my life without the ones I love and to have them with me in spirit on this ride is going to be a defining moment in life for me…the race…icing on the cake.
So in looking back on time and troubles, worries and fears, failures and victories…the only constant has been God and my family…with these two wonderful, amazing and solid pillars in my life I see that life is now opening up even more…and I am able to see that life has always been a wide open book in the past…its just my inability to see the past that casts a shroud on the present.
We have so much in the small places of life…RAAM has allowed me to see these places with clarity and I haven’t even started the race yet…
Time to roll out and get back to work.
Andrew
This bike race called RAAM has been on my mind for about the past 2 years and really on my mind since last July – and now we are 30 days or less away. I have been thinking a ton about what makes me want to pursue things beyond my comprehension…and really…RAAM is amazing but more so on the solo end so I don’t want to get ahead of myself here..but all the same…this is huge – for me.
I hesitated the other day when I was consumed with all things about bikes, this race etc…was this race a defining moment in my life? Was this going to be it? Did I have plans for anything else as spectacular? I was almost ashamed to even have to think about this one…of course not. Each day my eyes open in the morning – slower on some days – my family is the reminder that all I do is worthy of my best effort and that my family is a continual defining moment of joy.
I have been through some rather scary moments in life as a husband/father in the past few years – questioning my resolve to the core. We have had times of complete failure when we had nothing further to loose. My family has been steadfast to support me as a husband and father without question through these times – scared and hopeful. So I guess today I am reminded that RAAM is not a part of my life that finishes who I am but builds it further but as a father and husband – these…these things will last as a reminder of why we get up…get out…and then live.
So in a weird way – I want to give this race to my family as they have given up so much to have me prepare for this journey. I cant imagine my life without the ones I love and to have them with me in spirit on this ride is going to be a defining moment in life for me…the race…icing on the cake.
So in looking back on time and troubles, worries and fears, failures and victories…the only constant has been God and my family…with these two wonderful, amazing and solid pillars in my life I see that life is now opening up even more…and I am able to see that life has always been a wide open book in the past…its just my inability to see the past that casts a shroud on the present.
We have so much in the small places of life…RAAM has allowed me to see these places with clarity and I haven’t even started the race yet…
Time to roll out and get back to work.
Andrew
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Tuesday Night with Dave
Turn around point...into the wind this time.
WHAT A GREAT NIGHT to get out and pour some miles on the road. 8 started and Handyman Jeff peeled off at 144 and we continued to the Monticello Meander on this 80 deg day. Me, Dave, Melinda, Amy, Jorge, Dan and Larry finished a well paced ride through the Minnesota countryside...and I applaud all who rode. This heat was a bit more than we were used to so with that comes the reminder to load up on electrolyte stuff - I recommend E-Caps from Hammer. They do work and can save your arse on days like today.
We had two flats - me and Larry...I felt like an idiot as my CO2 stuff failed and the tire saint (Dave) picked up my slack...thanks. Dan broke a spoke today as well due to sheer power but made it in at top speed with a brake adjustment.
Sign racing was in full-effect...it seemed just about every dang sign was a challenge...and everyone got in on the hunt. I think some actually raced road barriers and mail boxes...makes for a good interval workout. The city signs were fought for....winners through the night...Amy, Me, Dave and I think Larry (Hassan?) and I think everyone got some sign here or there (if we are counting all signs...) The road north from Fletcher was the first big burn for me - I led out the group and kept the speed between 25-30 for two or three miles to the county sign...that sign was fought for between Larry, Dave and me - all watching eachother - who was going to go...first Dave, then Larry then I finished the sign...almost lost my lunch. Albertville sign was next and Amy jumped all over that one and got down in the tuck and burried that sign...then to Monti....Funny little ditty - the Monticello prime is interesting - it has a solid climb then drops to the sign. I love this hill - it seems to be the right grade to accelerate on. I jump 100 ft from the base of the 1/4 mile climb and gained a gap but didn't see Hogland on my left side - eased up at the top and jump the sprint and right at the sign Dave comes along side and we both lunged....winner....who really knows except God at this point so we paper/rock/scissored for the win....my shears cut Dave's paper in half...good laughs over that one. Always interesting to ride with Dave - he always has that smile as if he enjoys the pain...its encouraging.
We pace lined the ride from Monti to Otsego (I got the Otsego prime) in single file and taking 30 sec pulls into the wind. We kept the pace at 21 and all hung in just fine - even with the broken spoke. From Otsego to Dayton was my big lead out...i think its about 2 miles from 101 to Dayton with the climb before the prime - I led to the top as hard as I could to see 5 shadows on my wheel...i had nothing left to give as Dave got that sign - good tactics Dave.
We yellow signed Dayton River Road and I edged Dave on the Cloquet Park yellow sign at the top of the hill sprint and we made wrong turns to get to super prime...some went straight...some turned and took the back way which is longer. Larry, Dave and Jorge were 100 yds ahead on superprime when we turned the corner - I sprinted at the stop sign as they crested the wall - I made it up the wall fast and tried to bridge and I was 30 ft short of edging Larry/Dave....I think Dave got super prime coasting...ugh...spent and tired we made it to the shop for recovery...good ride and even better friends.
See ya next time!
almost forgot...I did witness Melinda kiss Jorge's butt...not sure what the reason was but it did happen...always a friendly bunch.
Andrew
We had two flats - me and Larry...I felt like an idiot as my CO2 stuff failed and the tire saint (Dave) picked up my slack...thanks. Dan broke a spoke today as well due to sheer power but made it in at top speed with a brake adjustment.
Sign racing was in full-effect...it seemed just about every dang sign was a challenge...and everyone got in on the hunt. I think some actually raced road barriers and mail boxes...makes for a good interval workout. The city signs were fought for....winners through the night...Amy, Me, Dave and I think Larry (Hassan?) and I think everyone got some sign here or there (if we are counting all signs...) The road north from Fletcher was the first big burn for me - I led out the group and kept the speed between 25-30 for two or three miles to the county sign...that sign was fought for between Larry, Dave and me - all watching eachother - who was going to go...first Dave, then Larry then I finished the sign...almost lost my lunch. Albertville sign was next and Amy jumped all over that one and got down in the tuck and burried that sign...then to Monti....Funny little ditty - the Monticello prime is interesting - it has a solid climb then drops to the sign. I love this hill - it seems to be the right grade to accelerate on. I jump 100 ft from the base of the 1/4 mile climb and gained a gap but didn't see Hogland on my left side - eased up at the top and jump the sprint and right at the sign Dave comes along side and we both lunged....winner....who really knows except God at this point so we paper/rock/scissored for the win....my shears cut Dave's paper in half...good laughs over that one. Always interesting to ride with Dave - he always has that smile as if he enjoys the pain...its encouraging.
We pace lined the ride from Monti to Otsego (I got the Otsego prime) in single file and taking 30 sec pulls into the wind. We kept the pace at 21 and all hung in just fine - even with the broken spoke. From Otsego to Dayton was my big lead out...i think its about 2 miles from 101 to Dayton with the climb before the prime - I led to the top as hard as I could to see 5 shadows on my wheel...i had nothing left to give as Dave got that sign - good tactics Dave.
We yellow signed Dayton River Road and I edged Dave on the Cloquet Park yellow sign at the top of the hill sprint and we made wrong turns to get to super prime...some went straight...some turned and took the back way which is longer. Larry, Dave and Jorge were 100 yds ahead on superprime when we turned the corner - I sprinted at the stop sign as they crested the wall - I made it up the wall fast and tried to bridge and I was 30 ft short of edging Larry/Dave....I think Dave got super prime coasting...ugh...spent and tired we made it to the shop for recovery...good ride and even better friends.
See ya next time!
almost forgot...I did witness Melinda kiss Jorge's butt...not sure what the reason was but it did happen...always a friendly bunch.
Andrew
Monday, May 18, 2009
Friday, May 15, 2009
scouting and camping
this weekend is all about cub scouts and containing .... or unleashing the fun factor. I wont be around or really reachable as i will be playing guitar, eating smores, sleeping on rocks, cooking food, general rough-housing, drinking coffee and smelling like crap.
No biking for me - this past week was just enough to keep the furnace going for a bit - needed more miles but the ones done were tough miles - I really liked the solo night rides in the park...superb - just dont get caught.
Enjoy the weekend and kick back and relax or kick it hard.
ac
No biking for me - this past week was just enough to keep the furnace going for a bit - needed more miles but the ones done were tough miles - I really liked the solo night rides in the park...superb - just dont get caught.
Enjoy the weekend and kick back and relax or kick it hard.
ac
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Thursday Night Rumble to Albertville
We had a great ride tonight...all the while Jorge was asking if this could be the 2nd best ride ever...LOL. Funny. Yes Jorge - it could be so dubbed the 2nd best ride ever. Melinda, Amy, Dan, Jorge, Steve and me (andy) headed out in moderate temps and low winds...Praise God. We opted for the 45 mile route to Albertville.
We kept it in check and kept the heat going pretty consistent - we all stayed in the fold and tucked in when needed and it was great to enjoy talking without yelling over the wind. My goal was to get intervals in for the evening so we paced it out on the long stretches and kept the speed up there for the entire ride - yes....we were all together so dont worry...we were all smiles.
Everyone did great tonight and so did mother nature. We ended up doing some yellow sign racing and Jorge was racing all the city signs that just pointed to which direction they were at...new one I guess. Big props to Amy for sprinting the Albertville sign - the new one that we forget about all the time...good eyes and great jump on the group that wasnt ready! Its all about tactics.
Got the super-prime and Dan suggested we get an old jersey with poka-dots on it that the past winner wears on the next ride...hmmm sounds interesting.
All in all - A+ ride
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
whoa...the wind...it made me a bit deaf
wed night ride with Neil, Jay and Dan.
we headed to (should preface this that if you are reading this...most likely you read Neils blog already so this is redundant) Monticello and back - dead into the wind. Man, that was not easy as the wind was brutal. 4 riders doing a 3 up pace line and pulling when we knew we could and making it work in adverse conditions. Dan - you did GREAT and very proud of you in how you managed your time on the road. Better to ease it up - gain experience - gain strength - and not explode. Wind seems to be one of those things that can mentally destroy you - much like Jays broken spoke...just know its broken decreases your "perceived" ability. Neil is right - there is no reason to pull off the front in 30+ mph winds if you are not sure...save the energy and gain strength. Dan - you did it right!
I shouted Praise the LORD when we literally turn to head to Otsego - the tail wind was nice and it wasnt so loud with wind noise. we really did a great job tonight as a group - drawing on eachother to make it work.
All in all - great night - hard effort - really hard effort and the payoff was success through the difficult ride. Neil was all smiles and I have to say I was in concert with those feelings. Good RAAM training - it was close to some 50 miles tonight
drew
we headed to (should preface this that if you are reading this...most likely you read Neils blog already so this is redundant) Monticello and back - dead into the wind. Man, that was not easy as the wind was brutal. 4 riders doing a 3 up pace line and pulling when we knew we could and making it work in adverse conditions. Dan - you did GREAT and very proud of you in how you managed your time on the road. Better to ease it up - gain experience - gain strength - and not explode. Wind seems to be one of those things that can mentally destroy you - much like Jays broken spoke...just know its broken decreases your "perceived" ability. Neil is right - there is no reason to pull off the front in 30+ mph winds if you are not sure...save the energy and gain strength. Dan - you did it right!
I shouted Praise the LORD when we literally turn to head to Otsego - the tail wind was nice and it wasnt so loud with wind noise. we really did a great job tonight as a group - drawing on eachother to make it work.
All in all - great night - hard effort - really hard effort and the payoff was success through the difficult ride. Neil was all smiles and I have to say I was in concert with those feelings. Good RAAM training - it was close to some 50 miles tonight
drew
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Wind from the south
Looking to head out for a group ride in 20 mph winds from the south...always a lesson in pain and teamwork....always a treat to ride north for the last 20 some miles. Will update later.
I had 45 miles logged for the night and in this wind it was nothing short of brutal. The last check I saw prior to ride showed sustained winds between 18 to 29 mphs...it sure felt like it. Much worse than the last time we rode in the wind.
My good friend Andy Prest came out for the ride and Amy and Melinda were with as well. We traded off and made our way south to Maple Grove via the many roads out west...I got a bit turned around.
By the time we were heading east to Maple Grove - the rain started...felt hail...rained sideways...pelting and painful yet we had to get back to the shop....Once we passed Melinda's home Prest and I had the wind more or less at our backs and we jammed hard to get home...once at the parking lot of the shop it stopped raining - go figure.
this was a lesson tonight in riding in adverse conditions for sure. Great Job Amy, Melinda and Prest - you guys earned the non-existent but should be created - A-Team award!
I had 45 miles logged for the night and in this wind it was nothing short of brutal. The last check I saw prior to ride showed sustained winds between 18 to 29 mphs...it sure felt like it. Much worse than the last time we rode in the wind.
My good friend Andy Prest came out for the ride and Amy and Melinda were with as well. We traded off and made our way south to Maple Grove via the many roads out west...I got a bit turned around.
By the time we were heading east to Maple Grove - the rain started...felt hail...rained sideways...pelting and painful yet we had to get back to the shop....Once we passed Melinda's home Prest and I had the wind more or less at our backs and we jammed hard to get home...once at the parking lot of the shop it stopped raining - go figure.
this was a lesson tonight in riding in adverse conditions for sure. Great Job Amy, Melinda and Prest - you guys earned the non-existent but should be created - A-Team award!
Monday, May 11, 2009
at night...
Headed out in the mid evening for some riding - single speed mt bike...elm creek and urban riding. It was perfect.
ac
ac
Saturday, May 09, 2009
Saturday a.m.
Heading out past super prime this morning
Back home - Peter was picking the dirt chunks off the bikeFor some reason - i actually went to bed at a "normal" time...like 930pm. I am a night owl to the core and lately I have been taking advantage of this and biking at night here and there...also allowing myself limited sleep and adding in riding to prep for RAAM - who am I kidding? I will learn on the race but I can simulate as much as possible.
So back to last night...I fell asleep - and got up at 430 wide awake. I thought I was going to go nuts then I remembered...I have a mt bike. so i loafed around a bit - had a spot of food - and got geared up and headed out at 630 for some mt biking in the park. Had to make a chain adjustment and away I went . Lots of people in the park - no kidding. Ran into a mt biker on the DIYTT track - we exchanged loud hellos as we both had headphones on...
2.5 hours of ss mt biking at medium to hard effort and then I did some hill repeats up and down the back side of super prime. Got home in time to witness the mass production of Star Wars costumes for a theme party the kids were going to - it was great!
Food, star wars, food and good times... some pics to follow here of the costumes and who they are representing.
My own little Ham Salad
Dave really goes all out with costumes - this kid has a gift for details!
Thursday, May 07, 2009
no match!
Heading home from work to the group ride I ran into a first...a broken spoke on a very bad spot of road...the park at the coon rapids dam (the cracks really get your attention and I am not sure why i didn't take the road...the sidewalk is bad). Snap went the spoke and then the routine of wrapping the spoke up - and opening up the brakes....limp my way to the shop 5 miles down the road.
Once there - the group was just about to leave...no dice - have a nice ride guys...Matt gave me a ride home - thank you- and I grabbed the single speed 29er for a reunion ride with my ol'friend. I headed up super prime and straight into the park and did 12 miles of on/off road and then headed back to 144 and ended up at Walgreens where the group ride was resting...good timing.
Now, I obviously was not geared right - 36x17 on a 29er with 2.5 inch tires and medium psi...I held my own for a mile or two and had over 120+ rpms the entire stretch of 144. talk about cardio - whoa...it hurt. once at the junk yard hill - the group had managed to pull into normal fashion and road away - expected...Jorge - thanks for keeping in shouting distance.
Super prime was a sprint for me...and a walk in the park for Perry. I sprinted, pulled and knew I was just a mule for the real deal....quick ride back to the shop via the trails and decelerated my heart at the shop before heading home. With a quick stop at the grocery store - yes king dork with cycling clothes but we needed some things - I got home for some recovery.
Just when I thought the day was shot with the spoke....i got a workout that I was not expecting on the single speed. It was good to ramp up the rpms again and I had visions of Cheq dancing in my head. I kept picturing myself spinning out in the woods - chasing down the next rider - remembering to hammer down, pull back, pull up jam it forward in smooth rotation...it was a good day after all.
We did encounter another loss on the RAAM front - our final crew member had to back out for family medical issues...we are in need of one more to start - anyone?
Have a great weekend all 4 readers...family has my attention this weekend and rightfully so - they have put up with a lot of me not being around...
Andy
Once there - the group was just about to leave...no dice - have a nice ride guys...Matt gave me a ride home - thank you- and I grabbed the single speed 29er for a reunion ride with my ol'friend. I headed up super prime and straight into the park and did 12 miles of on/off road and then headed back to 144 and ended up at Walgreens where the group ride was resting...good timing.
Now, I obviously was not geared right - 36x17 on a 29er with 2.5 inch tires and medium psi...I held my own for a mile or two and had over 120+ rpms the entire stretch of 144. talk about cardio - whoa...it hurt. once at the junk yard hill - the group had managed to pull into normal fashion and road away - expected...Jorge - thanks for keeping in shouting distance.
Super prime was a sprint for me...and a walk in the park for Perry. I sprinted, pulled and knew I was just a mule for the real deal....quick ride back to the shop via the trails and decelerated my heart at the shop before heading home. With a quick stop at the grocery store - yes king dork with cycling clothes but we needed some things - I got home for some recovery.
Just when I thought the day was shot with the spoke....i got a workout that I was not expecting on the single speed. It was good to ramp up the rpms again and I had visions of Cheq dancing in my head. I kept picturing myself spinning out in the woods - chasing down the next rider - remembering to hammer down, pull back, pull up jam it forward in smooth rotation...it was a good day after all.
We did encounter another loss on the RAAM front - our final crew member had to back out for family medical issues...we are in need of one more to start - anyone?
Have a great weekend all 4 readers...family has my attention this weekend and rightfully so - they have put up with a lot of me not being around...
Andy
Heaters
i tell ya...i rode into work today - PERFECT morning all around. Flawless sunrise, the cool air off the river, the local folk fishing by the bank, Van Morrison playing in my mini-juke box, the quick climb out of the river valley, the stop at the coffee shop, the soft pedal into the parking lot to end it at the front door of the building where I got off my bike in front of a lady walking out lighting a cig and blowing the first burn my direction as i was breathing in....what a way to start the work cycle...with the smell of crap on my clothes, the burn of menthol....a total contradiction to the first 35 min of my morning.
Wednesday, May 06, 2009
Sunday, May 03, 2009
Team Iraq
should be sporting the new team kit - jersey - for the Jr. National Iraq team... this week.
It is an interesting read to say the least - here is the link...
http://www.strawberryfields.org/iraq/iraqi_page1
good to see cycling is loved all over...
It is an interesting read to say the least - here is the link...
http://www.strawberryfields.org/iraq/iraqi_page1
good to see cycling is loved all over...
N Dakota Mt Training...
Headed into the wind - and headed back...no goal outside of just riding - enjoying the sun - taking time to enjoy the view, smells and rolling road ahead...today was about being alone.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
one of those days...
Today was a fog to say the least. little sleep over the past two days but all is well with Pete - tired but doing well. Lack of sleep and too much worry had me ineffective at work. The thought of sleep was dancing in my head all day and when I should have slept I went for a ride in the wind. Maybe it was what was needed to clear my head.
the ride went dead into the wind and it was flat against our backs on the way home - others will post the details but it was a mix of hard efforts and regroups. The aerobars came in handy here and there but not in the pack - of course. once again I became the lead-out man which is great - pull hard...then a little more till you about loose it and watch others sprint the prime...not intended but it sure turned out that way - it okay. It's tough to beat Neil and Perry when they rock it...heck its tough to beat them anyway -who am I kidding?
A big round for Pat Smith and his ability to really hammer it out - Pat...I saw you smiling the whole time and after spending so many hours in the shop spinning this winter...it really paid off!
I should apologize for some of the words spoken recently in regards to the ride on Tuesday - so I apologize and give explanation in that I was for some reason blamed by a few here and there for what happened. It was bad that things fell apart, it was bad that it didnt come back together but it wasnt for a lack of trying - hence why I got bent out of shape. Tonight played out well and we finished together and had a lot of fun - I hope it can be like that every time. enough said.
maybe see you on Sat
ac
the ride went dead into the wind and it was flat against our backs on the way home - others will post the details but it was a mix of hard efforts and regroups. The aerobars came in handy here and there but not in the pack - of course. once again I became the lead-out man which is great - pull hard...then a little more till you about loose it and watch others sprint the prime...not intended but it sure turned out that way - it okay. It's tough to beat Neil and Perry when they rock it...heck its tough to beat them anyway -who am I kidding?
A big round for Pat Smith and his ability to really hammer it out - Pat...I saw you smiling the whole time and after spending so many hours in the shop spinning this winter...it really paid off!
I should apologize for some of the words spoken recently in regards to the ride on Tuesday - so I apologize and give explanation in that I was for some reason blamed by a few here and there for what happened. It was bad that things fell apart, it was bad that it didnt come back together but it wasnt for a lack of trying - hence why I got bent out of shape. Tonight played out well and we finished together and had a lot of fun - I hope it can be like that every time. enough said.
maybe see you on Sat
ac
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
31 deg in the morning....60 deg by 4pm
Commute to work this morning - wonderful morning to say the least. Fast and smooth. While crossing the CR Dam, I saw this guy pull about a 15 lbs carp on shore - crazy. random thoughts on the morning are over.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
I purchased a new jersey today...
I am rather amazed to actually find it...more amazed that is ever existed. Did you know that Iraq had a Jr.National cycling team sponsored by a US group? Neither did I. They suffered a heavy loss due to terrorist acts against the Iraqi people yet they rode in various venues throughout the Middle East.
I say all this to this end - I purchased the last Jr. National Iraq jersey...There may be others out there in circulation but this cultural outreach company had one left. I know that it will start enough controversy to kill a lion - but there are some neat reasons to wear it...my friends that serve as linguists and advisers in Iraq right now tops the list.
Ok - that's it.
enjoy the start to the week all.
ac
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Sat solo heading west......
GREAT day of do-nothing!
I need days where not much is done for forward progress - naps and a movie. It was great. Once the day settled down and the kids went to piano lessons, the sun came out and I headed to the garage to grab a bike.
This young man headed west to Otsego, Albertville, St. Michael and all the other little townships out there and back home in the dark. It was nice and fluid - quick and responsive. Moderate tempo ride with 10 min power intervals here and there - focused on breathing tempo and quick HR recovery.
Great evening
I need days where not much is done for forward progress - naps and a movie. It was great. Once the day settled down and the kids went to piano lessons, the sun came out and I headed to the garage to grab a bike.
This young man headed west to Otsego, Albertville, St. Michael and all the other little townships out there and back home in the dark. It was nice and fluid - quick and responsive. Moderate tempo ride with 10 min power intervals here and there - focused on breathing tempo and quick HR recovery.
Great evening
Thursday, April 23, 2009
RAAM practice tonight
I love this pic! Got lucky with the camera I guess.Well, with 20 plus winds from the south - it made sense to burn the candle down on the way south to enjoy the ride back with some serious back draft action. Was it like 9 tonight? The normal wrecking crew was in force and a couple of new guys - Nick and David....great to have you guys on board.
We headed to Fletcher then headed straight south to Hamel - straight into the wind. We did a pace line to reduce fatigue and were able to hold a nice steady pace to not blow the group apart. The rolling hills were just perfect. With a new rider just getting going on the bike, we ran into the all-mighty bonk. I headed back to wheel him to the turn around point and that was a great workout into the wind all on its own - thus the solo head wind effort I might expect on RAAM from time to time.
With the dogs of war ready and itchin to let loose, the turn around with the wind was the cue to unleash said dogs. How often do you get to spin out in your largest gear on a flat? (unless your Merckx, Boonen or any other voodoo pro). Brian, Jorge, Mark, David and I blasted out at max speed. This then became just as hard but faster. Jorge had some crazy speed...leading out forcing us to bridge three times I think it was. The final stretch into Fletcher was tactics - Brian, Mark and I were toying with each other - pushing to the final sprint at Fletcher at 40 plus mph - again - we had a 20 mph tail wind.
The ride home from Fletcher was solid cross wind and easy going and my hats off to Nick for hangin' in there and after talking with him in the parking lot (handing him some E-caps) he was ready to do it again. I did explain that this wind can be one's worst enemy if not ready for it...he had all smiles and we will see him excel this summer...this is the joy of a group ride - new riders having fun in the face of pain.
Great ride guys!
andy
We headed to Fletcher then headed straight south to Hamel - straight into the wind. We did a pace line to reduce fatigue and were able to hold a nice steady pace to not blow the group apart. The rolling hills were just perfect. With a new rider just getting going on the bike, we ran into the all-mighty bonk. I headed back to wheel him to the turn around point and that was a great workout into the wind all on its own - thus the solo head wind effort I might expect on RAAM from time to time.
With the dogs of war ready and itchin to let loose, the turn around with the wind was the cue to unleash said dogs. How often do you get to spin out in your largest gear on a flat? (unless your Merckx, Boonen or any other voodoo pro). Brian, Jorge, Mark, David and I blasted out at max speed. This then became just as hard but faster. Jorge had some crazy speed...leading out forcing us to bridge three times I think it was. The final stretch into Fletcher was tactics - Brian, Mark and I were toying with each other - pushing to the final sprint at Fletcher at 40 plus mph - again - we had a 20 mph tail wind.
The ride home from Fletcher was solid cross wind and easy going and my hats off to Nick for hangin' in there and after talking with him in the parking lot (handing him some E-caps) he was ready to do it again. I did explain that this wind can be one's worst enemy if not ready for it...he had all smiles and we will see him excel this summer...this is the joy of a group ride - new riders having fun in the face of pain.
Great ride guys!
andy
Whoa - this is nice....
Thursday 79° F 56° F 19 mph winds from south - wunderground report
Seriously - close to 80 Degree's? Looks like a good time to go south then north on today's ride....we have a few routes heading south then back up...I'll be there!
Seriously - close to 80 Degree's? Looks like a good time to go south then north on today's ride....we have a few routes heading south then back up...I'll be there!
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
To Albertville and Back
i didnt check the miles but I think its close to 40....and so were the winds from the north. 6 or 7 of us headed to Albertville then to Otsego and back on 144 where Wonderboy and Jet were waiting on their Mt.Bikes to finish the ride with us.
Despite the wind - it was a great ride and I was glad to see Bernie out once again - always a treat and he likes to pull big speed....thanks for the lead out on the county sign and of course - the big lead heading to Otsego....drafting behind you is like no wind at all. I figured Bernie needed to blow some carbon out of the legs so I let him handle the first part into Otsego then traded off.
One flat - that's it....we are getting better or the roads are getting clear. Fast tempo and strong intervals were in play but the group came together often - it was fun.
Super prime was led out by Mr. Tequila and Wonderboy up the wall...I was in third position with Bernie in tow. At the top of the wall - I led out convinced Bernie was going to come around but I noticed I was alone with Dan about 30 ft back as i took the prime....i about puked...literally.... tonight was a near threshold ride the whole way...Bernie was in true form with his locomotive "long sprints" and of course - he had the smile going.
Despite the wind - it was a great ride and I was glad to see Bernie out once again - always a treat and he likes to pull big speed....thanks for the lead out on the county sign and of course - the big lead heading to Otsego....drafting behind you is like no wind at all. I figured Bernie needed to blow some carbon out of the legs so I let him handle the first part into Otsego then traded off.
One flat - that's it....we are getting better or the roads are getting clear. Fast tempo and strong intervals were in play but the group came together often - it was fun.
Super prime was led out by Mr. Tequila and Wonderboy up the wall...I was in third position with Bernie in tow. At the top of the wall - I led out convinced Bernie was going to come around but I noticed I was alone with Dan about 30 ft back as i took the prime....i about puked...literally.... tonight was a near threshold ride the whole way...Bernie was in true form with his locomotive "long sprints" and of course - he had the smile going.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Under the Stars
Cubscouts last night prevented me from riding with the group - I trust it was a great ride - but the scouts are a blast and it was a wonderful last pack meeting of the season! (cheers and celebration). Upon getting home - I put on the the most colorful array of clothes, added a few lights and grabbed the Cannondale (complete with new d-hanger and now it doesn't ghost shift) and went out for 20 miles in total darkness. Little freaky to do this but I have been steady with 2-3 night rides a week to mentally prep and also it seems the only time to actually get miles on the road.
I opted to keep it moderate with 90-110 cadence and sustained between 20-22 avg. On the warm up section - going up super prime - a car pulls along side me and some guy (Hogland / wife but couldn't tell in the dark) yells - "What are you doing?" Then I figured it out. Only Hogland would take his wife out on a date to thus drive up superprime :) Our wives deserve much credit for putting up with our eclectic habits and hobbies.
I did about half in the country and half in the city and it became wonderful to say the least. Smooth and fast and the temp was perfect. A few thumbs up here and there and an explanation to one family at a stop light in that " I was racing across America in June so I best get used to riding at interesting times." A quick hand off of a TSH brochure - always carry those - and the light turned green and I headed into the abyss again.
This has been a great year already in many aspects for which I am blessed and thankful. Hope to see you on the road soon!
Andrew
I opted to keep it moderate with 90-110 cadence and sustained between 20-22 avg. On the warm up section - going up super prime - a car pulls along side me and some guy (Hogland / wife but couldn't tell in the dark) yells - "What are you doing?" Then I figured it out. Only Hogland would take his wife out on a date to thus drive up superprime :) Our wives deserve much credit for putting up with our eclectic habits and hobbies.
I did about half in the country and half in the city and it became wonderful to say the least. Smooth and fast and the temp was perfect. A few thumbs up here and there and an explanation to one family at a stop light in that " I was racing across America in June so I best get used to riding at interesting times." A quick hand off of a TSH brochure - always carry those - and the light turned green and I headed into the abyss again.
This has been a great year already in many aspects for which I am blessed and thankful. Hope to see you on the road soon!
Andrew
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
to work and back
Why is it that Jorge is so dang pimp in every picture? Does Boonen know you stole his kit?Work was nothing short of busy and hectic - I had no time for play and I am thankful for that. Productivity was high and a job well done was done.
The end of the work day meant another work was about to begin - the ride to the shop for the group ride. I watched people bike by all day - teasing me in a way - in the perfect riding weather - low winds and mid 60's and I think it was actually close to 70? The ride was the 144 loop with an extra loop for good measure on the TT course. It was a quick group and we had new friends to ride with and a tandem - so cool. Quang - thank you for bringing a crazy ray of light as you always do! Love it!
Lots of break aways and hard efforts tonight - extended pulls and of course re-groups. We started and ended as a group and that is always the way it should be. Thank you group for a fun night of talk and just sharing the great weather with friends!
ac
the road in...
it was nice and easy to roll the bianchi into work today - the morning is still chilly yes...but 60 plus degrees today is a bonus. Group ride tonight after work - expecting the 144 loop based on daylight yet - great morning and good coffee on the road in.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Thursday, April 09, 2009
Thursday Night with the crew
grrrrrreat weather....grrrrreat ride.
the group assembled for the 144 route tonight and we were blessed with great weather and good friends. I think it was like 10 or 11 riders and we headed out for a quick paced ride. You could tell that people were just happy to be there in the sun...forgetting about the cares of the day. It was wonderful.
I think we had three flats with the same wheel of the same bike at Fletcher.
The group split from time to time but came together often. The group is strong already and there were some hard efforts put out to test the waters a bit and it was fun.
It was finished with the casual ride through the park and a gathering to celebrate the birthday boy John...Happy B-Day John and have a great weekend down south.
ac
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
Tuesday Night
Great day at work - productive. Great time with the cubscouts and then boyscouts - civic duty. watched my youngest unknowingly smack Danny in the face with the tree limb - predictable. Core/strength workout with weight bench and exercise ball - found new core muscles. Cleaned garage and filed away 12 bikes here and there and up there too - wife happy. Quiet house, all are safe, all are sleeping and the day ends...
All positive moments today - not a single bad one...now that is a good day and it didnt even involve a bike - well - i did ride my mtbike to the end of the street and back so...well...even better.
andy
All positive moments today - not a single bad one...now that is a good day and it didnt even involve a bike - well - i did ride my mtbike to the end of the street and back so...well...even better.
andy
Friends
I love free speech - so does Erik Speaks...LOL
with that being said - I guess I should say that drawing the line at some point has to happen. in this case, attacking or approaching a friends character is that line for me. I may cross lines, of course I do, but it is important to own up to internal mess-ups and just move on.
I am careful to not praise men (people in general term) as we all fail but I will defend my friends to the end and will also hurt my friends - we tend to hurt those that are closest to us. Neil is a good friend and an encouraging person till the end - I have crossed lines with him and owned up to my mistakes face to face.
If the mystery writer has issues with my friend - just take it up with him face to face cuz it wont happen on my humble comments section...geez, I speak as if my blog has a national platform but it doesnt.
Enjoy the blog for what it is - an outlet for me and if others like to read - great...you can read.
andy
with that being said - I guess I should say that drawing the line at some point has to happen. in this case, attacking or approaching a friends character is that line for me. I may cross lines, of course I do, but it is important to own up to internal mess-ups and just move on.
I am careful to not praise men (people in general term) as we all fail but I will defend my friends to the end and will also hurt my friends - we tend to hurt those that are closest to us. Neil is a good friend and an encouraging person till the end - I have crossed lines with him and owned up to my mistakes face to face.
If the mystery writer has issues with my friend - just take it up with him face to face cuz it wont happen on my humble comments section...geez, I speak as if my blog has a national platform but it doesnt.
Enjoy the blog for what it is - an outlet for me and if others like to read - great...you can read.
andy
Saturday, April 04, 2009
couple of things I noticed...
As I progress into the evening here after an interesting/fun/exciting/cold ride today, I realized or am realizing a few things of worthy interest.
I am not 20 years old anymore - not that its a bad thing but that was going through my mind on the 17% grade climb today. I think that would hurt even at twenty and certainly there are some older than I that would say that is an easy climb - I'm just saying I'm not twenty.
Recovery is key and I am enjoying proper recovery to a hard or easy ride thanks to Hammer stuff. There are other great products but I get a deal b/c of RAAM....
I weigh more than John and John takes anti gravity pills - I know he does because he sailed away from us like the wind travels in South Dakota - in fact I think he climb out of Afton no-handed. jerk.
I WILL be training in Stillwater (bikery) and Afton (hill repeats) much more often. What makes you cross-eyed makes you stronger.
I like flat rolling terrain with occasional hills.
I recover well after a brutal climb. I may not climb like a goat but I can pick it up after a climb.
I know this sounds like a list of excuses for falling apart on the last 20 miles of the ride but it is not at all. I am happy with how I have progressed this year. I am proud of our group of friends and I hope I can continue to excel into June to make Team Strong Heart proud.
Tomorrow is going to be at home with a sick daughter making sure that grilled cheese and chicken noodle soup are on the ready.
Oh, another thing I noticed and I am surprised I didnt notice this prior - thermal tights should not be worn under shorts - they dont have the adequate padding or "smooth" surface needed on the first line of defense against chaffing. Lessons learned, realities experienced.
ac
I am not 20 years old anymore - not that its a bad thing but that was going through my mind on the 17% grade climb today. I think that would hurt even at twenty and certainly there are some older than I that would say that is an easy climb - I'm just saying I'm not twenty.
Recovery is key and I am enjoying proper recovery to a hard or easy ride thanks to Hammer stuff. There are other great products but I get a deal b/c of RAAM....
I weigh more than John and John takes anti gravity pills - I know he does because he sailed away from us like the wind travels in South Dakota - in fact I think he climb out of Afton no-handed. jerk.
I WILL be training in Stillwater (bikery) and Afton (hill repeats) much more often. What makes you cross-eyed makes you stronger.
I like flat rolling terrain with occasional hills.
I recover well after a brutal climb. I may not climb like a goat but I can pick it up after a climb.
I know this sounds like a list of excuses for falling apart on the last 20 miles of the ride but it is not at all. I am happy with how I have progressed this year. I am proud of our group of friends and I hope I can continue to excel into June to make Team Strong Heart proud.
Tomorrow is going to be at home with a sick daughter making sure that grilled cheese and chicken noodle soup are on the ready.
Oh, another thing I noticed and I am surprised I didnt notice this prior - thermal tights should not be worn under shorts - they dont have the adequate padding or "smooth" surface needed on the first line of defense against chaffing. Lessons learned, realities experienced.
ac
Monday, March 30, 2009
Headed East
was thinking about a route in Afton - thanks Neil - but thought that driving to the area to then ride was too much and I had to get going quick. loaded up some hammer stuff and bolted from home to do the stone arch ride and back. the ride down to stone arch was great, the trails are clean but watch out by the park area - the lower trails are under water. Once at the bridge - it was on auto-pilot. I dont care for the urban nature of riding that much but this wasnt bad...too chilly to have teams of people walking about. the new bridge was neat - but still a bit spooky.
Heading into the Univ. the winds really picked up in the face - chapped face by the time i was at Shepard Road - shoot, there was even a head wind going UP the high bridge. The loop back was nice and Ohio sucked but did it twice and Ramsey was good - did it once. The ride home was getting cold - the wind seemed to go right through my jacket. Once back into Champlin, I was home free. didnt bonk, not wiped out and had to stretch the heck out of my back. cold weather better be over but I am listening to the news now - snow tomorrow? great.
total miles are just over 85 solo...i accidentally reset my computer into the ride - correct me if I am wrong on that number.
ac
Heading into the Univ. the winds really picked up in the face - chapped face by the time i was at Shepard Road - shoot, there was even a head wind going UP the high bridge. The loop back was nice and Ohio sucked but did it twice and Ramsey was good - did it once. The ride home was getting cold - the wind seemed to go right through my jacket. Once back into Champlin, I was home free. didnt bonk, not wiped out and had to stretch the heck out of my back. cold weather better be over but I am listening to the news now - snow tomorrow? great.
total miles are just over 85 solo...i accidentally reset my computer into the ride - correct me if I am wrong on that number.
ac
Sunday, March 29, 2009
headed west
Met Jay and headed to Albertville. Great and sunny day with some stiff winds at times. Always great to spend time like this with friends. Cool thing is I am NOT working tomorrow - Tina is...means I am biking once again.
c ya.
AC
c ya.
AC
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Are my kids that old?
Today was a great day for many reasons.
Tina had girl scout events to tend to with Maria so they were gone at 7 am. I knew I was not going to be able to do the group ride with the boys at home but Tina said " they are old enough to stay at home for an hour or two..." Hmmm. well, I wasnt all that comfortable with that - yet - so I opted to ride locally in the area for a few hours - always being about 10 mins away from home. With this in mind, I made sure all bases were covered..food ready for kids, phones charged, books, games etc...rules about fire, locked the doors and my cell ringer turned up to max with vibrate on.
I headed out for a few hill repeats on super prime and then thought that a lap in the park would be okay - called home - all is good. The park was nice and I opted to sprint all upward vertical parts - there are enough and then the phone rang many times and figured I should get home before the boys went fist to cuff...walked in the door and they were reading and asked why I was home so early - go figure.
Went to UPS store to ship the fit kit for Borah back - the new jerseys for TSH are going to look great. Dropped off Hammer stuff at Bernie's home and headed back for a lazy nap - I was able to catch the group at the parking lot and they mentioned many unfortunate events that took place - good day to ride though.
ac
Tina had girl scout events to tend to with Maria so they were gone at 7 am. I knew I was not going to be able to do the group ride with the boys at home but Tina said " they are old enough to stay at home for an hour or two..." Hmmm. well, I wasnt all that comfortable with that - yet - so I opted to ride locally in the area for a few hours - always being about 10 mins away from home. With this in mind, I made sure all bases were covered..food ready for kids, phones charged, books, games etc...rules about fire, locked the doors and my cell ringer turned up to max with vibrate on.
I headed out for a few hill repeats on super prime and then thought that a lap in the park would be okay - called home - all is good. The park was nice and I opted to sprint all upward vertical parts - there are enough and then the phone rang many times and figured I should get home before the boys went fist to cuff...walked in the door and they were reading and asked why I was home so early - go figure.
Went to UPS store to ship the fit kit for Borah back - the new jerseys for TSH are going to look great. Dropped off Hammer stuff at Bernie's home and headed back for a lazy nap - I was able to catch the group at the parking lot and they mentioned many unfortunate events that took place - good day to ride though.
ac
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Team Strong Heart and the Fat Tire Festival 09
Chequamegon 40
So it says, and I know one cant read the fine print from a camera phone, my check cleared last night at midnight for Cheq 40 2009. This will be round three for me at that race and I have to say, it is intoxicating to know that it will be happening...in some weird way I view the prep for and the race of RAAM is like a training program for this race. I know it is NOT but I cannot wait.
I will wear the TSH colors with pride at Cheq and will be able to try out my new carbon rigid fork on the mt bike this year - thank you Trailhead!
And so goes the training and another reason to maintain the riding I have been doing this year through Sept...Oct...and so on. I am also planning to take part in the Sunday events ... doing some orienteering and such. Should be fun and would be a blast if some others are planning to do the Sunday events. Wow - RAAM and Cheq mixed with road/mt bike races in between - this should be a good year.
Andy
Sunday, March 22, 2009
sunday...a day of rest and water parks
Church, Grand Rios, install of cassette and chain, church then a night ride at 9pm for about an hour - local riding. Was able to do two up and downs on super prime in big gears to the top...headed to champlin and then around champlin then home. massive wind heading into the city...massive tail winds on the way home. nice. getting some ride time after all went to bed was a good thing.
ac
ac
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Great day to get outside
Had a tremendous day...and bad day in some respects. It started with getting up when my body got up. No alarms...no hustle...stumble to the french press coffee and then settled in with the kids reading Calvin and Hobbs books and laughed at my kids who were laughing at things they didnt understand.
We loafed and played outside a bit, put some drywall compound on the bathroom wall, then some bad stuff, then a bike ride with the kids up superprime into the park. Funny thing here, my son was riding a bmx style junker that he loves. I love that he is possessive about a bike. Climbing the wall at super prime - he was stalling out big time. It was their first ride of the season. I was behind him going slow and he was up off the seat making slowwwwww rotations and then he just stopped. I end up track standing and so does he...just hovering for 5 secs and then he winces and lets out a ninja grunt and pulls the rotation out of his butt and makes the hill without getting off at all. I gave him a dollar for the effort - paid in full at the stop sign.
we hit the park - hit some ice - played some pooh sticks and I sat in the sun at the bridge while they ran into the woods and such. We head back home and all three kids made it up the back side of super prime with ease - they got off their bikes and jumped around for joy that they made it! I love these guys.
Got home in time to straddle the cannondale and headed to the shop for what was a 23 person group ride. How fun is that? we ended up doing the neilorator? is that the name of that route now? 45 some miles - did some interval pulls off the front for some hard effort training and then sucked down a bottle of gatorade and a starbucks double shot thing...and about threw up 10 miles later. That cramp sucked and I owe it to starbucks.
hitting the rollers I was lucky to flat out - not a pinch flat but a worn out hole in the tire. Small stem - deep dish wheels - not a great mix and then got home to then buy new tires/tubes. Had to use the dollar trick to get back.
grilled out some burgers - caught a movie with the kids and they were wiped out - all is good and thus - my day is closing fast.
We loafed and played outside a bit, put some drywall compound on the bathroom wall, then some bad stuff, then a bike ride with the kids up superprime into the park. Funny thing here, my son was riding a bmx style junker that he loves. I love that he is possessive about a bike. Climbing the wall at super prime - he was stalling out big time. It was their first ride of the season. I was behind him going slow and he was up off the seat making slowwwwww rotations and then he just stopped. I end up track standing and so does he...just hovering for 5 secs and then he winces and lets out a ninja grunt and pulls the rotation out of his butt and makes the hill without getting off at all. I gave him a dollar for the effort - paid in full at the stop sign.
we hit the park - hit some ice - played some pooh sticks and I sat in the sun at the bridge while they ran into the woods and such. We head back home and all three kids made it up the back side of super prime with ease - they got off their bikes and jumped around for joy that they made it! I love these guys.
Got home in time to straddle the cannondale and headed to the shop for what was a 23 person group ride. How fun is that? we ended up doing the neilorator? is that the name of that route now? 45 some miles - did some interval pulls off the front for some hard effort training and then sucked down a bottle of gatorade and a starbucks double shot thing...and about threw up 10 miles later. That cramp sucked and I owe it to starbucks.
hitting the rollers I was lucky to flat out - not a pinch flat but a worn out hole in the tire. Small stem - deep dish wheels - not a great mix and then got home to then buy new tires/tubes. Had to use the dollar trick to get back.
grilled out some burgers - caught a movie with the kids and they were wiped out - all is good and thus - my day is closing fast.
Friday, March 20, 2009
last night of spin
did the bending crank arms - loads of fun. 3 of us showed and then went to see Paul off to Iraq. We will miss him and will look forward to his return to the fold. Our prayers are with you and your family Paul. Your dedication to family and this nation are astounding to say the least and it is a privilege to be your friend. If there is anything we can do to help you or your family - let us know!
ac
ac
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
New tunes for commute
Had a great time with some new tunes for the commute - thank you to the lost woman in the great north woods!
Commute to work and back - 16 miles of a group ride to get back for spin class (lead) and then had to cover some cub scout stuff so a ride home (miles included in the work/back section).
Was kinda nice to ride the road bike more. After spending so much time riding in the snow on a single speed mtbike - 120 psi is a drrrream. Taking the day off tomorrow (wed) from riding to do only squats and isometric holds and calf workouts...that is not a day off I guess.
cya
ac
Commute to work and back - 16 miles of a group ride to get back for spin class (lead) and then had to cover some cub scout stuff so a ride home (miles included in the work/back section).
Was kinda nice to ride the road bike more. After spending so much time riding in the snow on a single speed mtbike - 120 psi is a drrrream. Taking the day off tomorrow (wed) from riding to do only squats and isometric holds and calf workouts...that is not a day off I guess.
cya
ac
feels better...
To ride a bike without a flat tire. The one thing that scares me about the Colnago/Redline is that the rear tire is bolt on and I never remember to bring a wrench...is there an option to put like wingnuts on those things? Ride to work, Ride to shop later for spin class, Ride home. 28 miles on the road by EOD and 2 hours on a spin bike. Yes, feels better!
ac
ac
Monday, March 16, 2009
Feels so Good
I was honored with the ability to ride into work today on a 50 deg morning. Perfect. The sun crested as I was crossing the CR Dam - ducks, people fishing the quiet still of the morning was intoxicating.
Last min call of arms had me sending the word out for a last min ride on my way home. Madonna answered the call with enthusiasm and she ditched work and showed up to ride. I was struggling all day on this bike. It seemed just a bit sluggish. Never mind it is a mid twenty pound bike with some major rolling resistance and disc brakes but it just felt - odd.
Get to the shop - and man was it busy...really busy. I waited for Madonna and we headed out towards the 144 loop. It was great - and I was feeling the burn. I was not sure what was going on...still, should have checked my tire and didnt. My rear tire had a sssssssslow leak and by the time we made it half way over the 144 rollers I could feel the tire sliding side to side and bottomed out the rim a few times...Dang. Once on Dayton river road - I put some air in and then once by Life Time - all the way flat and rode the rim into the shop. I felt like I had glue in my legs.
Madonna gave me a ride home and I treated to a little wendy's and that concluded my 59 mile day of riding. It was nice. This prompted me to check my road bike - yup...two flats which is why I took the colnago out. Showed my daughter how to change tires and then bed time. Good stuff.
See ya on the road.
ac
Last min call of arms had me sending the word out for a last min ride on my way home. Madonna answered the call with enthusiasm and she ditched work and showed up to ride. I was struggling all day on this bike. It seemed just a bit sluggish. Never mind it is a mid twenty pound bike with some major rolling resistance and disc brakes but it just felt - odd.
Get to the shop - and man was it busy...really busy. I waited for Madonna and we headed out towards the 144 loop. It was great - and I was feeling the burn. I was not sure what was going on...still, should have checked my tire and didnt. My rear tire had a sssssssslow leak and by the time we made it half way over the 144 rollers I could feel the tire sliding side to side and bottomed out the rim a few times...Dang. Once on Dayton river road - I put some air in and then once by Life Time - all the way flat and rode the rim into the shop. I felt like I had glue in my legs.
Madonna gave me a ride home and I treated to a little wendy's and that concluded my 59 mile day of riding. It was nice. This prompted me to check my road bike - yup...two flats which is why I took the colnago out. Showed my daughter how to change tires and then bed time. Good stuff.
See ya on the road.
ac
Sunday, March 15, 2009
much better...
went on today's light ride with some rest. electrolytes and it was a better day. Not sure what happened yesterday - it was not fun all around. Today i took Mr. COlnago out for hill repeats for an hour and then swung to the shop and back.
not much more time and we will be able to ride the park...
Andy
not much more time and we will be able to ride the park...
Andy
Saturday, March 14, 2009
ss mt bike - not the best choice today...or was it?
Did 40 plus miles today with Steve D. we headed to the diyy time trial and did two laps and headed home. I think that is forty miles, or you add in riding to the shop and its 40 miles. Steve was scheduled to ride 15 min level 4 efforts...I was not scheduled but did them anyway. 30 mph winds, hammering down and Steve riding very strong. I felt every second of it as I had a belly of brownies tearing me up from elm creeks after race thing...i was not there today to lay the hammer down but Steve was.
the wind was interesting - the gear was heavy - single speed into headwinds sucks.
Great day to be out - tonight is pizza night however and that has me really excited.
ac
the wind was interesting - the gear was heavy - single speed into headwinds sucks.
Great day to be out - tonight is pizza night however and that has me really excited.
ac
Dahlke Intervals
Dahlke Intervals: its what we do in prep for RAAM... Steve and I are heading out to the DIYY TT route in Fletcher to play cat and mouse. 15min long heavy intervals at a time. Me on my Colnago...Steve on his Mt Bike...the weather in the 30's maybe 40's...slop on the road for sure but that has not stoped us yet. This is like summer.
Will be at the shop at 10am and once Steve shows up - we are gone. All are welcome to join. Hoping to get 40 plus hard miles of intervals in today after warm up.
I look to ride after our stint as well - looking to get as much as I can provided my wife is not called into work so it may get cut short.
ac
Will be at the shop at 10am and once Steve shows up - we are gone. All are welcome to join. Hoping to get 40 plus hard miles of intervals in today after warm up.
I look to ride after our stint as well - looking to get as much as I can provided my wife is not called into work so it may get cut short.
ac
funny how you just shut down...
So today I was a bit tired...not so much the work week but the mental rings of fire that I have been going through the past month. Details are best spelled out over wings and lemonade...in fact...not worth going over anymore. The first ring of fire is done and I am sure I will be asked to jump through more before June.
So I get home from work and picking up Dave from a Boy Scout event and I sit for a second...then started to turn into a couch blob. The family is busy about getting ready for bed and I go upstairs to tuck in Maria while Tina was already asleep by this point. I go to the couch to read the paper and poof...i wake up 6.5 hours later on the couch and I am awake at 330 am. wide awake.
Gotta love it. So - catch up on the emails - read through some blogs - finish that movie from 2 days ago (doing that next) and will partake in the goodness of a quick nap prior to more boy scout stuff at 7am then will vanish on the bike for extended riding on Sat. 40 some degrees is a bonus. Get your fenders out and ride like the wind.
The point is - its kinda funny how when you have gone too far either mentally or physically - your body knows when it is time to power down whether you are ready or not. At least I was sitting down when it happened.
see ya on the road
ac
So I get home from work and picking up Dave from a Boy Scout event and I sit for a second...then started to turn into a couch blob. The family is busy about getting ready for bed and I go upstairs to tuck in Maria while Tina was already asleep by this point. I go to the couch to read the paper and poof...i wake up 6.5 hours later on the couch and I am awake at 330 am. wide awake.
Gotta love it. So - catch up on the emails - read through some blogs - finish that movie from 2 days ago (doing that next) and will partake in the goodness of a quick nap prior to more boy scout stuff at 7am then will vanish on the bike for extended riding on Sat. 40 some degrees is a bonus. Get your fenders out and ride like the wind.
The point is - its kinda funny how when you have gone too far either mentally or physically - your body knows when it is time to power down whether you are ready or not. At least I was sitting down when it happened.
see ya on the road
ac
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Ice Ice Baby
As you know - the weather was "going north" to the arctic circle in a hurry this evening. I LOVE riding in snow storms - it is almost like a time warp and its almost relaxing in a weird way. So, with spin class tonight and some of the business end of TSH to contend with, I figured the ride there would be good therapy and it sure was...wet, cold and nasty. At the top of super prime I about turned around as that wind was intense. My face was raw with pain by that time and then turning left at the top and down the hill, over the new bridge and past lifetime etc... I was waiting at the stop light by Cub foods turning left to the shop and a car pulled up next to me and the ladies in the car were funny - I could clearly understand what they said " Holy $&^#, look at that, that is crazy." she forgot stupid.I had a full sheet of ice all over my body except for my face. It was good to ride as always but I think I will prepare by checking the weather prior to leaving b/c by the time we were done with the spin class, the temp dropped to 9 deg with 30-40 mph winds. I got a ride home...I didnt need to earn the darwin award just yet. We did the "bending crank arms" work out with heavy gear for intervals and off the bike squats. It was liberating!
See ya on the road...in a day or two.
drew
Saturday, March 07, 2009
External Riding
finally not having to freeze to enjoy outdoor riding....well, it was a bit chilly I guess.
Friday:
Was able to get home and head out to put some miles on the bike with my headphones. was able to beat curvey martin (20mph avg) by about 30 secs. It was nice and cold...the sun went down and rode most of it in the dark.
Saturday:
Headed to the shop by noon and got to ride with a full crew. Some on mt.bikes, some on road bikes, all were glad to be there. Did some flyers with Steve and enjoyed the cold air. Did the 144 loop with an added on TT loop. Headed to BWW for treats and wings and met up with Ryan who is crewing this summer on RAAM.
Got home in time for Yahtzee and Pictionary with the family. Good times - and fun day.
ac
Friday:
Was able to get home and head out to put some miles on the bike with my headphones. was able to beat curvey martin (20mph avg) by about 30 secs. It was nice and cold...the sun went down and rode most of it in the dark.
Saturday:
Headed to the shop by noon and got to ride with a full crew. Some on mt.bikes, some on road bikes, all were glad to be there. Did some flyers with Steve and enjoyed the cold air. Did the 144 loop with an added on TT loop. Headed to BWW for treats and wings and met up with Ryan who is crewing this summer on RAAM.
Got home in time for Yahtzee and Pictionary with the family. Good times - and fun day.
ac
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