Red Tail Cyclist

First Win

2011-07-21T17:29:00.000-07:00

So I got my first win in a crit a few weeks back. Pretty exciting to finally cross the line first. Definitely had been dreaming of winning for years and have to it have finally happen was awesome. Furthermore it happened at a cool venue!! Here is a video with a few seconds of me crossing the line. I'm at the 1:54 mark in the video. Gave a little fist pump as I cross the line!

2011

2011-01-27T10:33:00.000-08:00

Its here, hopefully the winter gym sessions have paid off. Feel good, body feels good, weight is good. Saddle up and lets go!! New travel kit for this year. Pretty exciting to actually have that idea come together. One of my projects is on the jersey, it won't be ready until 4th QTR this year but the jersey was here now, so wth. My wingman never lets me down!! Call us Shake N Bake, Salt n Pepper, Maverick N Goose, or whatever have you we will be racing in a city near you!! First up is Tour of the Gila.

I'm spinning to those Sufferfest videos. Pretty cool stuff. Order one if you haven't already.

See you on the road.

peace

Greetings From Japan!!!

2010-09-23T03:00:00.001-07:00

Went to a baseball game this afternoon. The local team is the Nagoya Dragons. The game was pretty crazy. VERY LOUD to be exact. Check out the video. Later

2010 Road Season Wrap Up

2010-09-08T17:00:00.000-07:00

Greetings race fans. It has been a very long time since I posted on here. I have enjoyed reading others blogs and race recaps. I can't believe the 2010 Road/Crit season is over. For most of the readers here if any, you probably already know of any success or failures that I may have had this season. The single most thing I will take away from this year is I LOVE THE TRACK!! Big thanks to Robert for really putting the word out there about the track. If it weren't for his enthusiasm I may not have ever even tried it out. For those that don't know I did pretty well on the track, so much that I bought a premo bike. Another thanks goes out to Devin for letting me borrow his brand new bike to ride on the track for pretty much 5 weeks straight. I'm also greatful for the new faces I met out on the track to name a few Joe, PJ, Ruben, Devlin, and so many more that I look forward to seeing next year. What did I learn out on the track? Well I can sprint and sprint I did!! I really enjoy how quickly we get to the sprint unlike in criterium racing. I can see now I really like crits with lots of turns to keep my mind busy versus just the 4 corner crits that I am now bored with. My focus next year will be on the track and criteriums. Initially I was thinking I would try to vastly improve my road racing palmeres but that won't be an A priorty now. So back to this season though, I'm pretty pleased with the way this season has gone for me. In pretty much all the crits I lined up for I was competitive in. My goals coming into the season were Tulsa Tough, Webster Crit, and Gateway Cup. Webster is the only crit I wasn't pleased with at all because I flatted in the last few laps. Other than that I went to Tulsa and placed top 15 two of three days there and Gateway Cup I placed in the money 3 of 4 days. I do feel for Gateway I could have been top 10 every race but that is racing for you. The biggest issue to me at the Cat 3 level is you have a larger percentage of guys that can go out and win so tactics and luck on your side are a bigger part of the equation. I didn't have good luck the first 3 days of GWC but at the Benton Park Crit things worked out well for me. What else from this year...........well Mid Town Alley Crit I was able to give Devin a leadout which is alot easier said than done. He finished 2nd in that race, it is a great feeling to help a teammate to a good finish. Racing with Devin is such an honor, not sure I have ever met I more humble champion than himself. This blogging is pretty hard to stay focused at! I have just taken several phone calls and seemed to have forgotten my thoughts for this posting. In the coming months I plan to pick up the blog more often. For now its about a month lay off from any cycling due to my travels for work. I'm going to Korea for a week and then to Japan for 3 weeks. I leave this Saturday and return October 7. Next up is also the rebirth of my cyclocross career. This year I feel hungrier, in past seasons I have been burnt out heading into the off season for the road bike. I still won't enjoy riding in the cold but I'm really hoping to turn a good result on the cyclocross bike. I picked up a TCX frame/fork off the message board for a pretty good deal. I would like to make a short film next year as well using a macbook I plan on purchasing when I get from my trip. The film will be about the local cycling scene. I figure it will give me something to do with the new laptop and iphone i have!

VOS team car HHR and team bikes Scott

2010-02-17T17:25:00.000-08:00

Personal training Camp

2010-01-18T18:25:00.001-08:00

Start of my personal cycling training camp. 7 days of activity. Started with 1.5 hour on the trainer yesterday and today got in 3 hours outside. It was a beautiful day in Seattle, 55 degrees.

cross training 1/15/2010

2010-01-17T06:45:00.000-08:00

Night Skiing 1/15/2010 4 hours of craziness

2010 is here so........

2010-01-07T19:12:00.001-08:00

Well 2010 is here and another road season just around the corner. After a two week hiatus for the holidays I can now begin training. I'm just getting over the flu so I will start very slowy so I will not zap all my energy. I have been doing some riding and crossing training by hitting the slopes and skiing. I'm really enjoying skiing this year in Washington but looking forward to warm weather miles on the bike. Should be back in St. Louis very soon, although with all the snow you all are getting I don't want to comeback just yet! Thats all for now!!

Photo from Mt Baker Dec 19, my last time on the slopes before I had a 2 week break from work and training.

X-training

2009-12-05T18:16:00.001-08:00

Crystal Mountain 5 Hours on the slopes today.

Rocked Out folks

2009-11-08T19:21:00.001-08:00

Rock Racing apparel sale

2009-10-24T07:45:00.001-07:00

They are currently having a 70% of sale in Culver City....that is in L.A folks!! Although I couldn't make it myself luckily someone could for me. Sneaky Peaky of what was purchased! Also there is buy one item get one item half off now on there website. In other Rock Racing news or not news they haven't released any new info for the 2010 team. There will be a team I'm told but it could just be all the Spaniards.

Hibernatoin

2009-09-21T17:23:00.000-07:00

Gateway has come and gone. How was it? My family and friends came out in full force this year so I had some added motivation. Besides holding strong mid pack I was not able to do anything spectacular or break the top 40 with any of my finishes. I can honestly say after the last race Monday morning I was happy to be done for the year. The year got started early with the Valley of Sun Stage Race taking place in February. I traveled a lot this year for work which derailed any true training plan. As a result maintaining a competitive fitness for the Cat 3 ranks was definitely a challenge. Some of the highlights were being able to race in Phoenix,Tulsa,Chicago, and Washington DC. This year was the rise of Devin Clark. He started in February with me in Phoenix and has been on the podium or near it in just about every race through Gateway. Always nice to have a teammate doing well. As for the team this was the first year we had big numbers in the 3's. With Devin and Heine moving onto the Cat 2 ranks next year they leave big shoes to fill but with the guys we have in the 3's someone stepping up shouldn't be a problem. I'm already looking forward to next year and training with a purpose to achieve certain goals.

I'm currently taking time off the bike before slowly turning the cranks towards the first race of the 2010 season.

It's cross season, part of me wants to race but then again I'm enjoying not suffering. Who knows though, I may show up for one or two races. For now though I'm relaxing.

final Gateway Prep

2009-08-31T18:52:00.000-07:00

the ride.......GIANT TCR ADVANCED, the music.......KINGS OF LEON, the scenery.......SUPER HORNETS, all make for one solid bike ride.

Arriving back in St. Louis Thursday morning. Have to go pick up my bike and then I'll probably head out for a 60 minute ride. Message me if anyone is up for riding.

GATEWAY CUP 2009

2009-08-24T18:33:00.010-07:00

BE THERE

Bike Shop rip off or reality?

2009-07-22T19:04:00.000-07:00

I needed a few smaller items that I couldn't just run into The Hub to get because I'm about 700 miles away from Webster Groves! Anyhow I forgot to ship an air pump out here so I purchased a $20 one from this local shop. I also purchased several GU's and power bars. Today, I was looking for a small part and this shop did have what I needed and the shop worker asked if I wanted them to install it. I was still in my work clothes and had my bike in the trunk of rental and thought well sure this will save me sometime so I don't have to do it when I get to hotel. Only one problem, they wanted $10 to do it. I intentionally didn't say what the part was, so I could reveal that now. I bought a Cateye computer. So after spending $60 on this, you want $10 more to install it, I don't think so. It's already marked up for profit and you still want more!??!!? Do shops really charge that type of fee to install a wireless computer? Needless to say I was pretty turned off by that.

Soulard

2009-07-20T20:24:00.000-07:00

Not much to say about the race except I didn't finish and got it handed to me. No excuses, just didn't have what it took to compete on that day.

Race was fast and strung out from the go. I really thought it would slow up but not soon enough for me as I was at my limit from the go. Devin placed 5th I believe.

The Hub guys in the 4/5 race looked awesome and strong all day. I saw Bill, Lendal, Robert, and Joe representing the jersey well. They pretty much controlled the race and had the announcer giving the Hub a lot of airtime. The results from that race put 3 Hub guys in 2/3/4 place. Good job guys!

Also, this was my buddy Ahmeds first race. He was also in the 4/5 race. I sold him my Scott CR1 Team. So it was fun seeing him get through his first race. The crowd and announcer willed him to the finish. He should start to be out more and more and hopefully improving week by week.

Back in Maryland. Will be back for the State Crit in August.

Dawg Days of Summer Circuit Race in Bowie, MD

2009-07-12T17:40:00.000-07:00

After tens days off the bike I returned to racing today. The course was very smooth and the back side a slight riser but with the tailwind that was the fastest part of the course. For the 3's race I was of course islated without any teammates so I should have just been sitting in letting all the other teams pull back breaks. The race was paying 8 deep and 2 guys had got away. The field remained intact until we had 12 laps to go, a group of 6 guys were off the front and holding steady but no one was chasing because all teams were represented. Again the race was only paying 8 deep so I didn't want to miss out so I deviated from the plan of just sitting in and chased hard and I made contact with that chase group but when I got to them I was so tired I couldnt hang on and tried to fall back into the field. Only when I did that they had ramped things up I got spit off the back there. End of day for me in the 3's race. Tactically I screwed myself. I should have stayed glued in the field.

Next up was the 1/2/3 race. I knew in the race I would definitely just ride with the field. This race was 27 laps (55 miles). I stayed glued on the back of the pack the entire race up until 2 laps to go. I group of 6 were off the front and we were racing for 2 places initially but on the last lap the field did catch 4 of those guys. Through out the race there were attacks and counters but I didn't do any extra work and it was very easy just sitting on. The race was fast but I would say no faster than the A race on Tuesday nights. I tried sprinting in but my legs locked up and I sat up to roll in at 29th place. We had 60 starters so I was pleased. This was my first race on the Rabobank and it rides very smooth and responsive. I would say Giant has the edge over Scott now for me personally.

Soulard is next on the agenda and the return of my Addict. Flying back to StL Friday morning. See ya there!

The Giant is in Maryland

2009-07-11T17:23:00.000-07:00

So my Rabobank Giant arrived in Maryland today. I had been waiting anxiously on it. Assembly was very quick thanks to whoever packed it at The Hub. I must say it rides so much smoother than my Addict. I almost wish I had two of these.

I also picked up a pair of Oakley Jawbones on Friday. Probably the best pair of glasses I have ridden to date. They really fit like a glove and are ultra light.

I'm racing tomorrow up in Bowie, Maryland. There is a 2.1 mile circuit race. Butterflies are going crazy in my stomach as I get ready to face some completely new competition and have the all eyes on me feeling. Check out the course video, the pavement looks really smooth. Should be a fun one.

Maryland Recon......

2009-07-08T19:07:00.000-07:00

Arrived in Maryland last Thursday with no bike. I still have no bike at the moment but hoping it gets shipped out tomorrow. I went by southern Marylands version of Tues Worlds to check out the riders that were showing up. I remembered a few faces from my stay here a few years ago. I stopped by and chatted with one guy who is super strong. He rides a single speed at all times and keeps up with anyone. Side note his team got new kits and they pretty sweet, they remind of the new Cervelo team kit. There Tues Night training series consist of 3 races, an A,B, and C. The A being the strongest, but they arent associated with CAtegories. The A group does 4 laps around the ten mile Navy base. They have sprint point on the course. It gets pretty on the backside when the course is running along side the bay. I'm looking forward to getting in the mix on this ride. They also do a Thursday night ride that is 30 miles and has a few rollers in it. I really liked that ride when I was here because it was fast and very scenic.

Ready to ride, just need a bike!!!!!!!!

Webster Crit and Good Bye StL

2009-06-30T18:59:00.000-07:00

So the Webster Crit is one of my favorite races and with The Hub sponsoring there is alittle more incentive to show up in a big way. Fast forward to one lap to go in the 3/4 race, my legs felt great and because our guy for the race got crashed out I was ready to go for the glory. Unfortunately my day ended with a crash just after the first corner of the course. By the time I got off the grass and looked around bodies and bikes were laying all around. Some guys got hurt pretty bad and one required an ambulance. Fortunately I only have scrapes on my arms and knees. Until the today they were not bothering my but now they itch like crazy. At the time of the crash I had just called to Devin I was right behind him and then seconds later I was face planted in the grass. My frame was cracked as a result of the crash so that was pretty frustrating and my carbon wheels damaged. Scott has a really good frame replacement program so I will have a replacement at a good price. I have not said much about race but thats really it. I felt great but got crashed out period. Since my frame was cracked on the seat tube I got the nod to race on it once more. Pretty frustrated I wanted to finish the P/1/2/3 race. Only a field of about 45 lined up for it. I felt fine the entire the race only that one of my bottle cages was broken in the crash thus leaving me with only one bottle. This was factor at the end of the race because I was all out of water and hurting for fluids. Devin was riding pretty far up in the field so it took quite some time to muster up the energy to get to him to ask for some fluids. He hook me up but on the last lap my legs locked up going up the slight riser and I couldnt contest the field sprint. I rolled in for 20th place. Happy that I finished that race but still very disappointed at my tactics in the 3/4 race. I should have been more aggressive on last lap because the field bunched up at time of crash. Mental note to not hold back just for sprint and take a chance getting there.

So now that my Addict is cracked I needed a bike to take with me to Maryland. I recently sold an older CR1 I had and I'm using that money to purchase a Giant Rabobank Team Advanced frame/fork. All my SRAM Force is going on it and I'll have that shipped to me in Maryland. As for the Scott once my replacement frame is here I will have that built back up with a Force/Rival mix. Both bikes should look pretty wicked!

Leaving for Maryland Thursday. I found a race there next weekend I will do, so I'm pretty excited about that and its back to Stl for the weekend to do the Soulard crit.

Later

Whats been up?

2009-06-23T19:22:00.000-07:00

Several poor performances in my last few weeks of racing and some travel for work so I have been less than enthused about this season. A good thing is the team has done really well. Devin won the Cat 3 State Road Race.

Raced well tonight in the Tues Worlds, they had ankle chips so I should know my official placing I would guess 9th or 10th. I really need to transfer my Tues World performances to other races I would be alot happier.

My season here will come to an end pretty soon. I'm heading back to Maryland for work next Thursday. I will only race Webster, Soulard, and Gateway the rest of this year. I'll have to fly back for the last two on that list. I should get some good riding in while in Maryland.

Monday night beat down

2009-06-01T20:10:00.000-07:00

In an effort to get back in shape relatively quickly I decided tonight to really push the envelope. Taking some pretty hard pulls at the front until the legs really just didn't have it anymore. I rode to my limit tonight and at one point I was dropped then willed myself back to the chase group sprinting on to catch the back not giving up while letting out loud screams of anger! Felt good to go to that limit. I would have usually called it a day when first dropped, not tonight. I recovered and put in a few more pulls before hitting the wall again. I felt bad briefly because I rode this guys tire the last 2 miles or so, all the way in. Kind of odd though, when it was his turn to pull through he would say sitting on or something and not do work in the paceline. So I didn't feel bad about letting him tow me in. He tried sprinting or dropping me on the final stretch but since he towed I figured I wouldnt even sprint past him, could have done it easily but for what eh?

Tues worlds tomorrow.

How Tough?

2009-05-31T19:49:00.000-07:00

Well I wasn't Tulsa Tough this weekend. I got back from Italy Wednesday evening. Italy was great and it was truly an all work and vacation trip. I did no excercise or cyber cycling while there. I did eat REALLY good. Carbo loaded for the rest of the summer. Unfortunately that time off bike really hurt me down in Tulsa this weekend. I had no plans on going but fellow Hubber Dave Smith was looking for someone to ride down with him so I jumped in the truck with him. Tulsa Tough ranks as probably the best race weekend I have been to yet. I will be back there next year with good legs.

Photo is of my new frame. My black addict had a defect and it got warranted and they sent me this 09 R3. I wasn't a fan of white but I'm really digging it now. More training and getting the legs back in shape is what I will focus on the next week. Looking forward to a few races in June.

Same Ole Same Ole

2009-05-12T18:58:00.000-07:00

Well I haven't done a weekend races since the Tour of Stl. I have been making it over to the Tuesday Worlds and I'm happy with my finishes to date. Last week was my best finish coming in 6th. Other weeks including tonight I usually finish 10-20. Tonight I tried getting in a break and I was out there for a 2 laps with a Gateway rider, he then proceeded to drop me and then go on to win the race! The legs of a Cat 1 guy and my Cat 3 legs didn't mix well tonight. I tried hanging but ended up dropping back in the pack for the field sprint. I'll probably won't race any weekend races this month. I'm headed out of town this Friday for about a week and half. Going to Italy to ride with the Italians. I may post something cool from a bike shop or stage of the Giro if I make it to either of those while there.

Check the Champ out, some serious kick

2009-04-29T21:23:00.000-07:00

Dana Point Grand Prix Pro Men's NRC Bicycle Race from SoCalCycling.com on Vimeo.

Tour of St. Louis Run Down

2009-04-26T13:29:00.000-07:00

Great weather was upon us for another weekend of racing. Saturday was a new course held downtown that was pretty straight forward. A guy from KC got off the front and was able to stick for the win. In the field sprint I was bit further back than I would have liked and didn't have legs to close on anyone. I finshed in 14th place. I'm happy with that but I know I can do better. DEVIN finished 3rd and I've said this before but dude is a ROCK STAR. He is killing it in the 3s to bad he will moving on up as I have enjoyed racing with him.

Today, we were at Carondelet racing on a familiar course (Tues Crit) that was extended out to make it a circuit race. A couple breaks tried getting away early but nothing would stick. In the last 5 laps Devin landed in the winning break. Alittle earlier when he was out there I made my way to the front to slow things down. I was up there with a Mesa rider (Matt F.) who also had a guy in the break and we both had the same intentions up there. Out of the field sprint I was again a bit boxed in but I finished 12th in the race.

For the weekend I was just out of the money and only a few places away from reaching my goal of a top ten finish. I have a couple tweaks I will make to my tactics and see if that will land me up there. I am happy with where I am at now though.

I'll be adding a picture tab soon.

BAM

rough weekend at Hermann

2009-04-19T20:09:00.000-07:00

Title sums it up. Lots of hills and I didn't have what it takes to compete. Great weekend for The Hub though. Heine placed 3rd in the ominium powered by 2nd and 5th place finishes. Grman also had a great weekend placing 7th in the omnium. Devin flatted on the 2nd lap but was marking the Mesa ominium leaders every move. Mark is animal and did a great job keeping the field in check. Pretty awesome that any of those guys could have went with the break but the goal today was to get Heine in a break and the team was successful in doing that.

More training and longer rides are instore for me for future RR's. I knew this year would be every bit of tough me in the 3s. Have to keep fighting.

The 4's also had a really good races. Rock finished 2nd in the 4/5 ominium. Joe finished 5th in the 4's road race. Bill and Eddy both terrorized the field. GOOD RIDE BILL!!

Bikes are clean and ready for Tour of StL.

Must be the weather

2009-04-14T19:02:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday it was a bit chilly and just a gloomy day for the Tues Worlds. I didn't really feel like riding today but I had not been on the bike since last Wednesday. I figured if I'm racing this weekend I should get out to wake the legs up. Devin tried getting into a few breaks early on. Once he was out there Alex and I went to the front to ride tempo to give the break some room. We were up there for almost a full lap before others came around. A few laps later Devin lost contact with the group and rejoined the field. Fast forward to last lap, I'm on Devins wheel with Grman behind me, we take the outside line coming up the hill. Devin comes out the saddle and I lose his wheel, he puts like 2 bike lengths on me and I couldn't catch back on to try and shoot out from behind him. All I could hear from behind was Grman yelling "SPRINT CHRIS!!!!!!" I felt like I was moving in slow motion, no one came around me but I like said I couldn't catch Devin. So the last two weeks out the field sprint I'm right there. Still need more time on the bike and I'll be ready to hopefully make some noise. Didn't eat again today, so I did not feel the greatest after the race. Have to really work on that for my week day rides.

Red LINED

2009-04-07T19:32:00.000-07:00

I had a good ride tonight at the Tues Night Crit. Devin got in a break at the 46 minute mark but the next time we came around the sign had 3 to go up. A shock to everyone I believe is that the break stayed away and Devin finished third! Dude is officially a Rock Star, I mean anytime he shows up he is definitely good for a top 5. On the last lap coming up the hill I punched it and I had Alex or Dave on my wheel gave a pretty good lead out for them. I was only a few bike lengths behind them at the finish. If I had to put a number on it I would say I was 11th or so. Great race but my last effort red lined me and I ended purging all after the race. Definitely didn't eat properly to race today.

Hillsboro and Tilles results

2009-04-05T15:53:00.000-07:00

Not to much to say about my race at Hillsboro Saturday. This was my first race in the Cat 3 ranks here. We were scheduled for 66. On the first lap one of our guys (Mark) got into a break that actually stuck the entire race. Once he was gone in the break Hub guys just soft pedaled on the front of the pelaton allowing the break to gain valuable seconds on the field. I held on for about half way through the second lap and then hit the fan. I rode in with fellow Hubbers Dan and Dave. We called it day after 44 miles. Mark crossed the line in 5th place, Devin I believe 16 and Ryan around 25. Good day for the Hub.

Today, I was just hoping to actually finish after the Hillsboro blow up. I lined it up for the 3/4 race. We were on tap for 50 minutes plus 4 laps. El groupo remained el compacto most of the race. A few guys tried breaking away but nothing stuck. Through the entire 50 minutes I felt very good and even worked in the top 5 positions for a few laps. In the final four laps I started to move towards the front with 2 go and with one to go I was sitting like fourth wheel. This would prove to be to far up because by the time we made 3/4 arounds the course I was FIRST wheel heading up to the final left before the finish. Right now I don't have the kick to be able to hold that position and lay it down from that far out. So as we entered the turn guys swarmed around me and I came out the saddle to salvage a 12th place finish. Devin cruised in for 3rd, again he has been killing it and will continue put it down. I leave that race feeling pretty good knowing that my legs are coming around.

WeD Hub Ride

2009-04-01T20:22:00.000-07:00

FAST FAST FAST FAST, need I say more. I was right in the mix tonight always upfront and took a few pulls through out the ride. The ride shattered a few gents luckily I was already upfront just sitting in when the alot of the damage was being done. I felt good tonight still unsure what to expect for the weekend. A race this size anything can happen as far as the pace goes. Next few days I'll hit the trainer or short ride outside before lining it up Saturday.

Tues Crit 3/31/09

2009-03-31T19:54:00.000-07:00

There was definitely a full field tonight in the A race. Several breaks tried getting away and but nothing got to far out there. Devin actually bridged up to the break but then a couple guys attacked out the break and that put a hurt on him. As for me, I was very pleased with my ride tonight. The wind was blowing and it was key to ride a good wheel. I held good position most of race and only got caught on bad wheels a few times and had to close some gaps to the pack. I bailed after 41 minute effort in the 50 minute race. By that time we were strung out single file and there was no more hiding in the pack. After my dismal performance yesterday it felt good to put in a hard effort today. Plan on doing the Hub ride tomorrow and then taking it easy before Hillsboro Saturday. Still no ambitions for that race since I haven't had any real training time on the bike the last 2 weeks.

Back on the Road

2009-03-30T22:35:00.001-07:00

I went and picked up my bike today and had the roof rack put on. I picked up a 53/39 crank set also because I wasn't sold on riding a compact crank. Now I'm pretty much all set with the road bike. Only item I'm waiting on is a new pair of shoes. I also put the TT bike back together. I would like to get a dedicated set of carbon wheels for it. It had been a box since it arrived back from Arizona. With my travels this year I haven't had the time to do any type of riding. I'm hoping now I will get into shape. Speaking of getting into shape I went out to the St. Charles hammer fest today. It was very windy and all the usual fast guys were there. My best friend got the best of me today. I love training with him because he really inflicts a lot of pain on the legs. This friend only shows up sometimes but when he does I know I will be in for it. I got dropped off the back because this friend was pushing me back on the saddle and swaying me from side to side. Many of you probably know this friend. Let just call him "windy," and when he gust, well no one will have a good day. The ride was fast and it split into multiple groups. I was hurting real bad, but actually finished pretty strong. It's funny how a small amount of "at a boys" or encouragement will really give that extra boost. I fell off the main group, the chase group, and the stranglers graciously yelled, "don't give up HUB!!!!!!!!" I didn't, I really didn't I kept the legs moving and finished honorably. The road to fitness will be long and tough, but I'm up for the challenge.

HELLO U.S.A

2009-03-28T09:44:00.000-07:00

Almost back home to St. Louis. Just arrived in Detroit off the 12 hour flight from Japan. Unfortunately we couldn't make the 12 connection to St. Louis and the next flight is at 7:30pm. Probably one of the longest layovers I've had to date.

Hopefully the weather in StL will be favorable so I can get some riding in now before Hillsboro and Tilles.

See ya on the road.

Back in Japan

2009-03-15T11:23:00.000-07:00

I left Friday for Japan. I should be here for around 2 weeks. This is my third trip here this year. With that said riding the bike has been put on hold. I will use the hotel cyber cycle 3 days a week while here. I'm registered for Hillsboro but being out of country will definitely leave me without the form I've been trying to regain.

I went to the first Tues Worlds of this year and rode in the A race for the first time. Kind of surreal doing that race now when I can remember showing up there 3 years ago thinking if only one day I'll have the legs to do that race. The race was fast and it was windy.

As we say here in Japan

Sayonara

Back in the USA

2009-03-08T17:22:00.000-07:00

Got back from Japan Saturday afternoon and the first place I went was to pick up my bike from the shop. I made it out for 1.5 hour of tooling around Forest Park in the nice weather. Hit the road again today with Devin and Greg for some hills out in Valley Park. I hadn't ridden outside since the race in Arizona but I was pleased with the legs today. If it doesn't rain I will be at the start of the Tuesday Night Worlds. I'm also hoping to make it to the Forest Park crit Sunday. Unfortunately another trip over seas might in the works so I would miss it. Looking forward to Hillsboro though.

Peace

2 weeks off the road

2009-02-24T21:18:00.000-08:00

I'm in Japan now. Four days after getting back from Valley of the Sun I boarded a 747 non-stop to Nagoya, Japan. I should be back in the states next Friday. I have ridden the Cybex (bike in the hotel work out facility) to keep my legs going. Nothing really defined I just ride it for 1 hour. I hope that will keep me somewhat motivated to be ready for the Forest Park Crit. I've been meaning to find a bike shop here just for kicks but its been raining so I have not ventured to far from the hotel.

later

Valley of the Sun recap

2009-02-17T07:52:00.000-08:00

We raced and raced hard for it only to be February.

I'll post more about the races later.

More about the races.......Friday we had the 14 mile time trial. By the time I went the conditions had changed and the out route was faster than the route back to finish. I pushed pretty hard but came up short of mid pack time. My tt bike performed well I just need to get used to riding in that position.

The road race was 71 miles. I was very happy with my ride on the road race considering this race was only my 5th ride outside this year. I got dropped on the 4th time up the hill that was on the 16 mile loop and finished solo. Devin finshed 12th, which is freaking awesome. Dave T. finished just off the main pack too.

The crit was super fast. I got dropped from that after about 13 minutes of the 40 minute race. I'm definitely not in crit shape. The road race was allowed me to hide out in the comfort of the pack but the crit was strung out from the time they dropped the flagged.

By far this is the biggest race I have been involved in other than Gateway Cup. I'm looking forward to going back next year. I know now I will train alot more and be better prepared to improve on my results from this year.

For now though a couple photos. First shot is the entire Hub crew that came out to race. Second shot is one of me with Rashaan Bahati. I was hoping I got an opportunity to meet him and I did.

Velonews on Valley of the Sun

2009-02-11T09:02:00.000-08:00

Valley of the Sun stage race kicks off Friday
By Ophir Sefiha
Posted Feb. 11, 2009
Winter-weary racers will get a taste of springtime this weekend during the 17th annual John Earley Memorial Valley of the Sun stage race.
The  three-day event in and around Phoenix has traditionally been the first stage race  for many domestic professional and elite regional teams, and the weather should be welcoming, with sunshine and temperatures in the upper 60s.
The Amgen Tour of California, which gets under way Saturday, has  already drawn many of the domestic peloton's top riders to Northern  California, which means that most domestic professional teams will not have full  squads in Phoenix.
Nevertheless, this year's start list is loaded with talent, including  riders from Lance Armstrong's Trek-Livestrong U23 squad, Bissell, OUCH-Maxxis, Kenda-Spinergy and Rock  Racing.
On the women's side, a host of top regional amateur squads will be  racing, including last year's road-race winner, SC Velo's Beatriz Rodriguez.
Racing begins Friday with a nearly flat, 13-mile out-and-back time trial held  near the West Valley town of Buckeye.   Saturday brings the Landis Cyclery Road Race. The 16-mile  circuit features 470 feet of climbing per lap in the form of a fast, big-ring ascent that also serves as the finish to the 89-mile race. Last  year, Tristan Uhl (Tx Tough-Hotel San Jose) took the sprint win in just over three and  a half hours.
Racing concludes Sunday with the 0.8-mile, eight-corner Verrado  Criterium. The finale is normally in downtown Phoenix, but with the NBA All-Star game sharing the same date as this  year's event, the criterium has been  moved to the West Valley town of Buckeye.
Advertisement

Last year's criterium saw Rock  Racing score a one-two with Justin Williams taking the victory followed by  teammate Sterling Magnell. Cari Higgins (America's Dairyland) took the  sprint in the women's race.
Time bonuses in both the criterium and road race keeps the racing fast and  tactical, and the GC winner is often decided by a matter of seconds. Last  year's men's race saw the top nine GC riders each within a minute of overall  winner Karl Bodine (5 Star WVO).
Check VeloNews.com for daily coverage from Phoenix.

http://www.velonews.com/article/87584/valley-of-the-sun-stage-race-kicks-off-friday

Last year at the Tour Of Mo I met 2008 U23 National Criterium Champion Justin Williams and he will be at this race too along with 2008 Professional National Criterium Champion Rahsaan Bahati both of Rock Racing. Looking forward to meeting these guys if I have the chance. As far as training goes, I got in 4 rides outside and a number of trainer rides. Looking forward to just having some on the bike in Arizona!!!!!!!!! I'll be at the airport this time tomorrow.

RB (above), Justin Williams (below)

Traveling to Arizona one week from tomorrow to RACE!!!!!!!

2009-02-04T18:07:00.000-08:00

Valley of the Sun to draw thousands
The 17th Annual Valley of the Sun John Earley Memorial Stage Race, presented by Landis Cyclery and Trek, will be held from February 13 to 15 in the greater Phoenix area. More than 5,000 participants and spectators are expected.

In 2008, almost 900 cyclists competed in front of thousands of enthusiastic spectators. The 2009 race, hosted by the White Mountain Road Club, will award over US$10,000 in cash and prizes and will attract some of the top professional cycling teams like Bissell Pro Cycling, to be led by Frank Pipp.

The three-day event offers men and women, both amateur and professional road racing cyclists of all levels, the opportunity to compete for cash and prizes. Pro/am events include an individual time trial, a road race and a criterium while others may enjoy a bike rodeo, fitting clinic and kids' race.

Valley of the Sun 2009
February 13: Stage 1 - Town of Buckeye Individual Time Trial, 14 miles
February 14: Stage 2 - Landis Cyclery Road Race, 50 to 100 miles
February 15: Stage 3 - Verrado Criterium, 30 to 70 minutes

above article courtesy of www.cyclingnews.com

We've got three Cat 3 racers going out and two CAt 4 guys traveling to AZ next thursday to line it up. I got in a good ride on Sunday in which I bonked in the last 4 miles with a sizeable group of 16 guys that came out to ride (around 53 miles). Beyond that I've been on the trainer so I'm not heading into the race with lofty goals which is good because it is only February and the season is just beginning. I'll put in another long ride this Saturday and then just to do a few easy trainer spins before flying to AZ next Thursday afternoon. It is also NBA All Star weekend in Phoenix so the possibility is there to catch a few special events going on.

GET OUT AND RIDE!!!!!!!!!

Swap Meet Success

2009-01-25T15:39:00.001-08:00

I set out today looking for a few items. One of which I was successful in finding. That item would be a time trial bike and brand new at that. I had played with the notion of building up a frame but ultimately I would spend more money doing that for something entry level than I could if I just got some already put together. Today I picked up an 08 Fuji Aloha. The only items that will get swapped out in the near term are the wheels. In the photo I've already got my Rolf Prima Vigors on it. When racing it I will use my carbon wheels. I just need to get a set of pedals for it and I'm rolling. Having never been to the swap meet I was pretty impressed with the number of things for sale and the large number of people in attendence. While waiting in line to go in we chatted with a guy that drove down from Hannibol, MO just to be there at open to have first pick.

This picture is for you Bryan!! 09 Honda Civic Si black on black is what I'm rolling for 2009. I have a Yakima roof rack from another vehicle that I will put on this once my new clips come in.

I got 2 rides in lastweek. One of which I just tooled around Forest Park and the other was a pretty hard hill laiden ride. The legs felt like they had some life but no real kick and endurance in them. I would like to get in at least 10 more rides outdoors before heading to the stage race in Phoenix, AZ next month. Until then I will get a lot more diligent at getting some trainer time in. After hearing what some guys having already been doing I need to get things rolling although last year I didn't really starting training consistently until February.

I've got the Jet Lag blues

2009-01-21T19:10:00.000-08:00

I haven't been able to adjust back to this time zone. I'm dog tired everday between 3-5pm. Today, I slept from 5 -645 pm. I probably shouldn't take naps but I have been having head aches and my body has been sore. Then when it is bed time at say between 10 -12 I can't go to sleep easily. More like I'm just laying there looking at the ceiling. Hopefully this doesn't last much longer. This is only my third day back in the States.

returning early

2009-01-17T12:27:00.000-08:00

Be back in St. Louis tomorrow.....looks like it has been rEaLLY cold there.

How many ponies you got in those legs?

2009-01-11T17:24:00.000-08:00

Toyoda (textile company)/Toyota (cars) Commerative museum.
Shabu Shabu for dinner Sunday.

Cycling related....I've ridden the cyber bike in the hotel gym the past 2 days. First day was for an hour and today 1.5 hour. Goal is to simulate building base miles riding long for the next couple of weeks and then I will add some intensity during my last week in Japan.

Its Monday morning here and we only have one meeting today then we are off to do some more exploring and sushi for dinner.

I've arrived in Japan!!!!!!!!!!

2009-01-10T14:14:00.000-08:00

I bring you all greetings from Nagoya, Japan. I arrived here late lastnight after all almost 20 hours of travel time. We encountered several delays which is why it took so long. We flew over on a 747-400. I was in Business Class so we had several nice amenaties to keep you comfortable so the 14 hour flight wasn't bad at all. I watched 4 movies and then took a nap. We met an American woman that was traveling back from North Carolina that had moved to Nagoya 23 years ago and hasn't left! She taught Japanese at an International University and has now retired from that. It was good meeting her because she was able to help us communicate with the gate agents. I ate Mcdonalds lastnight and had to point at what I wanted to order food. Still very surreal being here. I traveled all over the U.S but this is my first trip across the Pacific! Its Sunday morning. I will probably drop a few lines on here as often as I can about whats the haps in Nagoya. A few photos from the flight over below over.

Blast from the past perhaps?

2009-01-06T19:04:00.001-08:00

Found this photo today of me on one of my first......gasp.....group rides! This was in the summer of 2005. I hadn't ridden a bike since I was kid.

Here we have my very first race the 05 Soulard Criterium. My goal was to finish and I did.

Holiday Break/2009

2009-01-04T19:31:00.000-08:00

Well I spent my entire 2 week break in Cleveland, OH. It was very cold and snowed just about every day I was there, not that I had my bike with me anyway. I haven't eaten to crazy but I've still had several days of enjoying the foods I love most. I hope I'm not to far off from where I need to be. Lots of new things happening for 2009. I bought another car and it's something that should suit me better for cycling, I'll put a roof rack on it in the near future. I'm planning on moving from the loft I've been renting month to month since I moved back. I changed jobs at work so I won't be moving back to California as I had planned on so I will probably sign a lease somewhere soon. As for cycling I haven't done anything cycling related for about 3 weeks now. I have thought about riding but with the cold temps I've only done a number of trainer rides. I despise riding in the cold weather. Today, I looked out the window and by the looks it seemed like a nice day to get out. I walked outside and the wind was blowing with the 30 degree temps. I'm definitely a fair weather rider for the most part. This time last year I was living in California and I had no problems riding in 50 degree weather. All you needed was a long sleeve jersey and you were set to ride. With that said I think I will be alittle slower getting back into the swing of things for 09. The season should start for me and few other Hub Racers at the Valley of the Sun Stage Race in Phoenix, AZ next month (Feb 13-15). Teammate Dave Thackrey has done this in years past and I thought it would be cool to travel to a city I have never been to and race my bike while on a quick vacation. I won't be in any shape for the race as I have a TWENTY-ONE day business trip for work that starts this Friday. I won't return until January 30. I'll be out of country so taking my bike isn't an option. I will resort to doing whatever else I can in the hotel to try and be in good physical shape upon my return for a rush of base miles leading up to the event.

While saying good bye to 2008 I went through all the photos I had of me racing and wanted to post my favorite from the 08 season. Below is what I've chosen. This was during the Gateway Cup at Lafeyette Square. I gave a few hard turns on the pedals to go for an early prem and Chris from Big Shark followed me. He ended up winning the prem and I got a 7th place finish that night. I hope the 09 season is as good as the 08 campaign.

HWY 40 TT

2008-12-14T16:49:00.000-08:00

Today, I was pretty happy the weather gods were nice and gave us a not so bad day to ride the road bike in the time trial. Having not ridden to much since September I was just happy to be out on my bike. I don't even have 10 rides on this bike yet. Today, was also my first ride on my new wheels. The Addict in itself is already a wicked light bike but with addition of the carbon wheels that are crazy light too made me feel like I was riding a feather. The time trial was billed as 9 miles but I only clocked 8 miles. The HuB was out in full force too. It was nice seeing all the guys out. As for the ride I didn't expect much just to go out and put it down to see how an out of shape racer could do. I felt like I did at the beginning of any season, which is not that great. My clock had my time in the 24 minute neighborhood which is a minute slower than the first time trial I did at the Tour of St. Louis which was also at the beginning of the season. I'm excited to race next season to say the least. I know you get out what you put in so I'll definitely hope to put my fair share of time in to be competitive at the next level.

Wheel BLING

2008-11-27T09:41:00.000-08:00

I now have a pair of Rolf Carbon TDF 58's on the road bike now. I still need to get a cassette for them but here's an early look of the bling action on the bike. These are the wheels I spoke about in the previous ebay posting. They weigh in at 1310 grams.

Bubba Night Cross

2008-11-23T08:55:00.001-08:00

The night cross race had all the bells, whistles, cheering, and jeering one could ask for. Sadly enough that race did pretty much seal the deal for me, at least for this season as to if I really want to race cross. I have tried to find the "fun" or "the race within a within the race" but it just doesn't click with me. In any hobby I'm involved in, it has to be fun for me. Cyclocross not so much for me. Even without having a competitive mindset at ALL it still isn't fun. When I wasn't competitive on the road, I welcomed the challenge of getting stronger and faster. That challenge was fun. I chatted up lastnight about selling my cross frame but I will not make any rash decisions. I will return to spectator status for the remaining races.

I did get the carbon wheels I ordered off ebay. Once I have my camara I'll post some pics of the wheel bling! My time trial helmet should be in Wednesday too.

Bubba #5 Cyclocross

2008-11-17T14:26:00.000-08:00

I FINISHED!!!!! Goal this week was to do just that, finish. I started the first lap running the same pace as the leaders but as the first lapped neared completion, my heart rate was threw the roof so I backed off and eventually settled into a pace I could maintain and actually in the closing laps the legs felt really good. I'm actually looking forward to racing this weekend and having fun just being out there.

EBAY

2008-11-14T15:47:00.000-08:00

I've been very fortunate to have very pleasurable experiences on Ebay both buying and selling items. Last Friday I won an auction for a set carbon wheels I had been eyeing and used paypal to pay for them within hours of the auction ending. Naturally when I'm the seller I put things in the mail immediately once I have the money. Lets just say this seller didn't do the same for me. It is now one week later and I have no wheels. The seller has only responded to one email I've sent him. Tonight I had it in mind I would go through the motions of trying to recover my money. I used the Ebay chat session to have my questions answered on what route to go. They recommended I get the sellers phone number. My first thought was why even bother talking to the person that has been the cause of the problem anyway. I did go ahead and request the sellers phone number and did speak with him. Long story short he says he has been really busy but not so busy that he still found time to transfer my money to his account. He says he emailed me the tracking info yesterday and the wheels should get here no later than Wednesday nextweek. I have recieved no such email with tracking info. He is currently not at his residence so he says he will send the tracking number again later this weekend. I will say he has bought himself some time and I don't feel as worried as before but the jury is still out until I have the wheels in hand.

BUYERS BEWARE

Cycling ROCKS Birthday and Bubba Week 3

2008-11-02T14:40:00.000-08:00

Friday was my 26th birthday. The girlfriend threw me a surprise dinner with friends at PF Chengs that evening. She also hook me up with several great gifts. The first being 2 Rock Racing shirts. I like to consider myself a fashionable guy lol and Rock Racing owner Michael Ball designs some pretty cool cycling apparel. The kits they offer are all pretty cool but a bit pricey. We are talking about $300-$400 for complete jersey and bib kit. I had on one of the t-shirts Saturday.

She aslo got me a Giro Advantage II 09 edition time trial helmet. Only she got me the wrong the size. It will be shipped back this week and exchanged. I only need a bike now!
As for the race today, well I didn't get involved in any crashes. The course was pretty brutal on the legs. Cx racing is definitely not coming easy for me. I got out into about 10th place and felt the gaps opening behind me in the field. Big problem was I was running pretty much full tilt to keep my position and I couldn't maintain that pace. So I started to ease off the pace and watched people pass me by all up until the point where I threw in the towel. I really just need to sit in and suffer and enjoy just being out there. I will start this philosphy in the next race, but the competitive edge in me always wants to simply compete and heck maybe even win. I went through the same thing racing on the road and it took a couple years to get the legs to be competitive in that discipline. Until then though I will enjoy the atmosphere, music,and food!

After the race I headed over to my league basketball game. I was alittle late and the game had already started when I got there. We were down by 10 points just three minutes into the game. I hit the floor and we were right back in the game taking the lead by 2 points heading into half time. The second half I couldn't sink any three balls but had a few hard drives to the bucket and got fouled then knocked down my free throws. Needless to say we lost by 2 but we had every opportunity to win the game in the last 2 minutes. We are now 0-2.

This week I'm heading back to my alma mater of Tuskegee University to take part in Homecoming activities. I'll be flying out to Atlanta Thursday morning and driving down to Tuskegee, Alabama. Its only about 1.5 hour ride. So that means no cx race or basketball for me next Sunday.

new CX bike and my first CX race

2008-10-26T17:43:00.000-07:00

Busy day busy day...........Picked up my cx bike Friday after work. Its a Specialized S-Works fitted with a 105 grouppo. I like the fit of it and it definitely fits the entry level of bike I was wanting to piece together. I rode it for like 20 mins Saturday after I got in 30 miles on the road bike. Fast forward to one day later (today) I was doing my first cx race. The course was pretty flat and really suited me well being it was my first ever cx race. I like the vibe and relaxed feel the cx races have. I can't say a whole alot about the race as I was only in for 3 laps. I was sitting in 4th place and then I goofed on a dismount and had to stop and really just walk over the barriers. After that I dropped back to like 8th and here is when my day ended. We were going through a winding section of the course when the guy in front of me washed out his front tire and went down. I'm right behind him and with no where to go, I hit the deck. Falling on to the grass was not that bad but my right hammy just wasn't right after that and it took a few minutes to check the bike out and get back going. Needless to say I did enjoy the cx race and I'm looking forward to racing next weekend. I was in the C race forgot to mention that. Erik took 2nd place for The Hub in this so that was pretty awesome.

My day wasn't over after the bike race. I got recruited to play in basketball league on Sundays too. After the race I headed straight to Priory HS to hit the hardwood. I put in 20 points in a losing effort by our squad. I hadn't played basketball in about 3 months now since my time in California. Overall though the body is pretty beat. I'm pretty much dead tired. Nextweek I've got my Tuesday training ride, Sat morning shop ride, and rolling right into another busy Sunday with cx race and basketball game.

My birthday is this Friday too. Another year in the books.

The New Ride

2008-10-18T18:23:00.000-07:00

Scott Addict R3

So I'm rolling a new Scott these days. The bike is all that and more of what it is hyped up to be. The bike is light and responsive. I wasn't really sure how I would like another Scott because I wasn't to impressed with my CR1 Team. I say that with some reservations because I didn't take the time to dial in my CR1. I knew it had somethings that didn't make the fit just right for me that I never took the time to get adjusted because it was just a back up bike. A couple things I had adjusted on my Addict were the handle bars and a stem. The new handle bars have a shorter width and the stem is also a 100mm inplace of the 110mm. The bike came with Mavic Ksyrium ES' but I had those replaced with Rolf Prima Vigors. The grouppo is SRAM FORCE. I had never used SRAM before but I really like the set.

In other new ride news, I'm piecing together a Cross bike. It should be ready to roll by middle of nextweek and I will race in the Bubba series next Sunday. I'll post a pic of that also and give a little more details on it then. One last bike I will probably get sometime soon is a Time trial bike. The cross bike is being put together with used parts and the TT bike would also be something that I piece together. I went and rode the TT bike I'm talking about and it really fit pretty well.

Back at it Again

2008-10-12T16:53:00.000-07:00

Returned to the bike yesterday and today. The return was a filled with much anticipation as they had my new bike ready to roll for me for its maiden voyage. Prior to this weekend we were tweaking a couple things on the bike to get the fit pretty close to perfect. I had new handle bars (ones that came with it were to wide) put on and a shorter stem. So looking good on the new bike I got 30 miles in Saturday on the shop ride. Although I didn't feel good at all and just rode at the bike most of ride it was great to be on the new bike. After that ride I knew the handle bars needed to be raised up so we added some spacers. Wanting to check the fit with the spacers and I went today for a pretty long ride. I got in 65 miles. I rode out to my parents and watched about 30 minutes of the Rams game while there and replenished my bottles. Then I set out towards the loop to grab a quick treat from Smoothie King then out to Forest Park and finally back downtown to my place. The first 30 miles went really well but the last 30 or so were pretty hard because my legs were shot. Big thing is, I think we have the fit of my new bike to my liking. As for what kind of new bike I have, I will post about it later. Lets just say it is very light.

not to much and Cat 3 racing

2008-10-08T19:13:00.000-07:00

Haven't ridden any since the St. Gen road race besides tooling around downtown. I've enjoyed the time off the bike but I'm to point I am ready to jump bike on the saddle. This will happen once I have my new bike, which should be ready to go Saturday. More on that in a coming post.

Someone posted a link to the cat3phenoms blog on stlbiking.com and I find this particular entry pretty revelant since I'm made the jump up to the cat 3. Read below his entry entitled Cat 3 racing is the tougest. This isn't serious his blog is pure humor.

"That's right, racing as a Cat 3 - or in my case, dominating as a Cat 3 - is the hardest thing to do in all of bicycle racing.A quick lesson for the non-cyclist on Racing Categories. When you begin racing, you start out as a weak little Category 5, or Cat 5. I prefer calling it the Crash 5's. You wouldn't believe the amount of 'squirrily birds' they have in those groups. Once you do ten races, you can move up to a Category 4. Unless you are a Nancy-ass sandbagger, then you stay as a Cat 5. Why would you do this??? I guess some people like gay medals to hang on their walls.So Cat 4's is a step up from the Cat 5's, but this does not mean a thing. All it means is the person likes to race, not that they are any good at it. Anybody can be a Cat 4, or Cat 5.To become a Cat 3 - hereafter referred to as 'the Ultimate Cat' - you must earn points from the races you compete in. You must have 20 points in a 12 month span in order to accomplish this. The only point value I know is for first place, because that was where you could always find me.So you get you 20 points and have shown you have some talent, so now you're in 'the Ulitmate Cat'.Now that the briefing for the uneducated is finished, I can discuss why Cat 3 racing is the toughest...First off, the bike handling of most Cat 3's has not improved since the time they were a Cat 5. At the same time, leg strength and power has generally increased among these same people which means everyone goes faster. That, combined no bike handling skills, results in carnage waiting to happenOr picture it like this: You go out on St. Patty's day, consume massive amounts of Irish Car Bombs so you've lost all control over your body and it's functions. You then have a choice of hopping into a souped up Corvette capable of 0-60 in 3.5 seconds, or throwing your leg over a 1946 Vespa that lacks the horsepower the get you over that big neighborhood speed bump.In the Corvette, you're lucky to make it out of there alive. You wake up the next morning and are just counting your blessing that you made it home in one piece. You know you escaped a wreck that could have cost you your life. This is like Cat 3 racing.On the mighty Vespa, you're just lucky if you make it home before daylight due to the slow speeds that you putter along at. You know full well that the only damage that's going to be caused in a wreck might be a little skin off the body. This is Cat 5 racing.It is for this reason that during Cat 3 races I just stay off the front, constantly attacking my opponents to wear down their legs. I slowly turn those 09 Corvette legs into the wet noodle that is the 46 Vespa. By the time the bell lap rings I have turned what was once the Ulitmate Cat into nothing more than a bunch of spandex-wearing sissy-boys.As far as Cat 1's and 2's are concerned, their bike handling does not allow for the difficulty that is involved in Cat 3 racing, thus making Cat 3's - the Ulitmate Cat.Well that is all for now, I'm off to get my bike fit perfectly to my body. I feel as though my seat is 1 nanometer too low, thus impeding my ability to maximze my already superiour power on a bike. Have a good one!"

2008 Season Review and looking ahead to 2009

2008-09-29T16:38:00.000-07:00

OK so the season is officially over for me now. I can definitely say the hard work in the early months of this year paid off for me in the end. After only doing 2 races in 2007, I was pretty anxious to get back out on the road in full swing. I started riding back in February, probably right around the time I started blogging. The blog king of held me accountable since I was riding by myself out in the desert nearly 3 times a week. If you put in the work, the results will come. I felt very strong in nearly all the races I competed in this year. I'm still chasing my first win, but this year I came very close on several occasions to getting it. Some races that stick out in my mind are the California State Road Race and Cliff Drive Classic in Kansas City. Those races were both really challenging and just a lot fun. With that said, I'm very pleased with the year I had.

What does 2009 have in store for me? One big thing is I will start the year racing as a Cat 3. Wow, is all I can say about that. I remember like it was yesterday doing my first race as a 5 and getting dropped like a bad habit. Also, next year the goal is to do a couple Stage Races and the state time trial race. Hopefully the job will allow for me to train enough to be in a position to have some results next season. The first race of the year for me will be in February at the Valley of The Sun Stage Race in Arizona if all goes as planned. Several Hub riders should be at this event in the Cat 3's. So I'm really looking forward to training for that. I will be on a new bike for 09 and I hope to purchase a time trial bike too. I'll post at later time on the new rigs. I'm really looking forward to riding with the other Hub guys currently in the 3's. It has been a few years since I have raced with them. Get those trainers out racers because 2009 will be here before you know it!

2008-09-25T19:19:00.001-07:00

St. Gen road Race Saturday Sept 20

2008-09-18T10:07:00.000-07:00

Plan on lining it up one last time for the 08 season. Course is a 33 mile loop with 3 nice climbs from what I hear. Looking forward to it as I havent done a road race since the State Road Race in California.

Tour of Missouri

2008-09-14T19:39:00.000-07:00

The Tour of Missouri took to the roads of ole Missoura, not Missouri but Missoura. Really who says that?!!?!? ITS MISSOURI!!!!!!!!! Say it like it reads. Ok the race waspretty cool to follow online and see BIG time racers right here in our state. I saw 3 of the stage finishes over the course of the weekend. Rode down to Jeff City Friday to catch the finish, then in St. Charles, and finally a few blocks over the from house on Market St today. It was pretty amazing how close you can get to the teams and all there equipment. The lessor known riders hung out more outside there team cars and the big name guys came out for autographs and then jumped right on the bike. I hung out with a Rock Racing rider Justin Williams for a few minutes picking his brain about what it was like riding in the Tour. This guy is only 19 years and is the current reigning U23 National Crit Champion. He also recently beat the Cuban Missle in a sprint finish about a month ago out in Cali. This was his first stage race and he is very excited to return to the Tour of MO next year. I also got a jersey autographed for a friend Dan, of a rider that won the 2005 National Road Race that was in Philly. Dan had a jersey that he has been holding onto for the last ten years to get it signed by Chris Wherry (only j/k about Dan holding out for ten years, that gives the story alittle more kick though!!)

The Hub was out in full force too, had a good time hanging with the guys.

NEW KITs NEW KITS NEW KITS

2008-09-11T19:23:00.000-07:00

Yes, we've got them in. The new kits, the Hub has a new look essentially for the 09 road/crit season! Pictures to come soon...if I race tomorrow, those will pics of the kit will be posted.

EDIT to add photo of our new jersey. Ok so that's the new jersey. Heine wasn't in full kit, only the jersey, so full kit photos will come after the St. Gen road race next Saturday. It's pretty coool how our wings favor Rock Racings signature design.

2008 Gateway Cup Wrap up

2008-09-01T15:22:00.000-07:00

Overall a really good weekend for The Hub at he Gateway Cup. I felt really good all weekend, only wish I would have made a couple moves late in some races. My goal was to finish top ten in all four race and I was able to do that. Here they are:

Friday Lafeyette Square - 7th place
Saturday Downtown - 2nd place
Sunday The Hill - 4th place
Monday Delmar - 6th place

Pictures will come later and maybe I'll talk more about each race. Peace

KC photos added

2008-08-13T11:08:00.000-07:00

Tour of KC results from this weekend

2008-08-10T16:50:00.000-07:00

Weekend race report from the Tour of KC. The Friday night crit course had two nice ascents on it. One ascent was leading up to the finish. For this race most of field just stayed together and it was an all out sprint up the hill to the line. I came out the corner and up the hill in third but then found myself quickly getting passed by most of field well before the finish. Not exactly sure where Dave Smith finished but I know he passed me and I finished 28th in that race.

Saturday a circuit race was on the agenda. We were set for 7 laps around the course. It was raining and a pretty cool day. I could have actually used a jacket for this race. This course too had a switch back climb up to the finish. It was definitely worthy of the small chain ring. Race had several crashes early on but then after that the field got split up and we were able to settle into a good pace. Heading up the switch back on the last lap I really just didn’t have enough to really be in contention for sprint up to the line, but I rode in for an 8th place at this venue.

Today the coursehad 2 slight ascents and was my favorite of all the courses. The course had I think about 7 turns on it. It was definitely important to be up front as to not get strung off the back. There was a 2 man break early on that got away but one of those guys eventually got dropped somewhere along the line. The group pretty much conceded the victory and we were set for a field sprint at the finish. Just like the first 2 races this one had an ascent right before the finish. Heading up this on the last lap I was able to pass a number of people and had a good sprint up to the line for a 4th place finish today.

All in all KC provided 3 challenging courses and a fun weekend of racing.

Tuesday Night Worlds

2008-08-05T19:08:00.002-07:00

Most Tuesdays since I have been back I have tried to make it over to the Tuesday Night Worlds Criterium series. I use this race to work on different tactics and just pulling and recovering. Tonight I got a 5th place finish and we also had Devin not to far off my wheel on the finish.

Photos up from Jeff CIty Crit

2008-08-05T19:08:00.001-07:00

Click photos tab

3rd Place at the State Criterium and the BRONZE MEDAL

2008-08-03T17:55:00.000-07:00

Finished third place in the Missouri State Criterium. It was a very hot and humid day on the course. Around 40 to 45 guys started the race. From the start I didn't feel good at all. I had the feeling that if I did any pulling or rode near the front my day would be over. With that said, I rode in pretty much last place the entire race. I didn't start moving up until the last 3 laps. By that time though I did feel pretty decent and knew that I could make a run for it because I hadn't been up front all day. On the last lap I pushed up to about 14th or so and then as we were heading up a couple quick turns that were on a hill I punched it through a gap and found myself in the sprint for top a top 3 finish. I couldn't reel in the first place finisher and the guy who got second past me maybe like 10 feet from the line. I'm very happy with the race today. Not knowing if I was going to be able to finish the race and then being able to pull off a third place. I caught alot guys by surprise because I was in the back the entire race, some were saying they didnt even know I was in the race! Pictures will come soon

Photos from QUEEN CITY ARE UP

2008-07-28T20:30:00.001-07:00

Queen City Results

2008-07-27T20:10:00.000-07:00

Overall weekend was pretty good...right up until I went down today in the crit. First though, I had a strong ride and finish on the crit Saturday. The course had 8 turns and a nice long stretch up to the finish. The field was 50 deep with 4's and 5's. Pretty much after the first lap alot guys were getting spit off the back. Not really knowing any of the riders there, I sat around 10th place the majority of the race until we got down into the last 3 laps. With 3 to go the lead group was only about 10 bikes with a chance to win it. With that said I didn't have enough in me to overtake anyone on the sprint to the finish and finished in 5th place. Now to today, the course was perfect. Only 4 turns and smooth pavement. The pace of this race was really slower than any training ride I go on. In the middle of the race on a STRAIGHT AWAY of all places there was crash and I didn't have anywhere to go except down into the crash. Bike was ok and I knew my right side took all the impact. More on that later. I got back in the race and settled back in with no problem but still felt like the pace should be faster. After several guys sprinted for a Prem I shot off the front with the hopes of several joining. One Mesa junior joined me but he couldnt hang for more than a 1/2 a lap off the front. With that said I sat out front maybe 50 yards in front of the group right up until the 2nd to last turn and then dropped into the front but I didnt have anything left for the sprint finish. I just rolled in with the group. I could have easily sat in with the group and finished alot better but I just a move needed to be made and who knows if I went a 1/2 a lap later I would have won the race. Have to keep pushing the limits and taking chances cause one day the move will stick. Back to the crash, my body is extremely sore. Thinking about getting some xrays tomorrow just to be sure nothings broken. Next race will be State Crit, a week from today. Pictures from today will be posted soon.

Pre Race info Queen City Criterium

2008-07-25T06:14:00.000-07:00

heading down to Springfield today for the Queen City Criteriums. I will race the 4/5 and the 3/4 Saturday and only the 4/5 on Sunday. Weather is supposed to be nice. Not looking like there will be other Hub racers in the 4's field with me this weekend. Results and pictures to come on Sunday.

CHecking IN folks

2008-07-15T20:00:00.001-07:00

I have been back in St. Louis now for almost a month. I have made it to all but one of the weekly rides I used to do when I was here fulltime back in 2006. The legs have felt pretty good the past few weeks. I have been alot more aggressive on the rides I have been doing. I feel like sitting in won't get me to the next level of fitness. I haven't been shy about taking an aggressive pull or punching it up any hills we are on. Actually took my body to a level it hasn't been at EVER on our Hub ride this past Saturday. I did alot work in random places all through out the ride and we had broken the group up to a lead group of 5 guys. We were approaching the final sprint on the ride and a teammate says grap my wheel so he could lead me out. I grabbed his wheel and he ramped the speed and I shot off from behind him giving it ALL I had only to still get beat by our resident pain deliverer Ryan Heine. After the sprint I didn't feel so good. The heart rate was going to many beats per minute and I was just really hot. The end result was me pulling over and hopping off the bike and purging all I had in my stomach. After the stomach was empty I felt better and the teammates brought me several bottles of water to dump over my head to cool me down. I can definitely say I found my redline point. The goal now is to know how to ride hard right up to that point but not cross when I'm sprinting at the end of rides or races. With that said I did the Tuesday night Criterium series today. I felt pretty good all race but on the last few laps several Big Shark guys really ramped up the pace and I was sitting in 8th place and thought it would be easier to swing around after the last uphill but I couldn't close the gap up to the sprint thus finishing in 8th place. My riding schedule is pretty much set to, I ride Mon,Tues,Wed, and Saturdays. There a few races next weekend I'll be making it out to. With all that said, I'm glad to be back home.

Webster Criterium results

2008-06-22T19:21:00.000-07:00

The Webster crit was today and I my legs did show up for one of two races. The first race was the category 3/4. I knew from the get go, this race would be very fast and I might have some issues hanging in there. Twenty minutes in I dropped off the back and retired to save any energy for the 4/5 race that was an hour later. The 4/5 race is definitely a huge change of pace from the 3/4. Here you didn't have guy after guy driving the pace. I felt really strong and comfortable from the start. With the added confidence I went for a Prem lap which would have netted me $50 for crossing the line first, only I caught at the line. After that I just sat in and recovered for the next few laps. Fast forwarding to the last lap I moved up to about 5th wheel and with 3 turns to go. We have a guy on our team that is a really good sprinter so I told home to just hold my wheel until the straight away for the finish. He was there until someone ran him into the curb and he went flying, I then sprinted to a 6th place finish, my best of this season thus far. I can't really remember the sprint, I wish someone had a video of it so I could see why I didnt sprint past the guys that were in front of me. Needless to say I'm very happy with the finish today not to mention one of our guys won the race too. Pictures will be posted soon .

Sudden death playoff

2008-06-16T19:59:00.000-07:00

TIGER WOODS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! this guy is clutch. Tiger wins again.

another DNF (San Fernando Crit) and todays ride

2008-06-15T20:31:00.001-07:00

Made the 2 hour ride up to San Fernando yesterday for a criterium. Race had about 35 guys in it. The course was a fairly flat P shaped .8 of mile loop. I rode fairly decent for the first 20-25 minutes but once again I just didn't feel like I had any legs so I just dropped out. Of the two criteriums I did in California both I did not finish. Maybe yesterday I wasn't prepared as I had only ridden twice in the last two weeks but still, I thought I could at least finish with the group. No dice. Posted a few photos from the race. I'm in red/white/gold as I rode in my Pax-Velo kit.

Rode today and felt really good.....so definitely a plus after a not so good performance the day prior. I will get one more ride in here before I pack the bike up and have it shipped to St. Louis. Goal is to have it there and ready to roll for the Webster Crit a week from today.

Rolling

2008-06-13T09:05:00.000-07:00

Back in Cali = back to my regular riding. Got in 26 miles this morning. There is a crit tomorrow about 2 hrs from here, I'm thinking about heading up for it. It should prove to be a good race before the Webster Crit next weekend.

hola

2008-06-09T09:58:00.000-07:00

I have been working in Vegas the past week and 1/2, I did bring my bike. I've only got two rides since I've been here. I rode Red Rock Canyon, which was a nice ride but it was really really windy. My next ride I did was on base. 11 MORE Days and counting!!!!!!!!!!!!

Memorial Day Weekend and A big fat DNF

2008-05-27T19:51:00.000-07:00

Quick and dirty, only took the bike out once lastweek before heading up to Orange County for the weekend. I did a race in Long Beach, it was a crit that was scheduled for 45 mins plus 5. Lets just I say only hung around for 26 minutes of that. Pace was very quick on a flat .7 of mile course. From what I heard from the locals this course was one that was raced often kind of like the Carondelet course of the Tuesday Night Worlds in back in St. Louis. Not sure what was all wrong with me, but I felt like I was pushing the limit and that doesn't mix well with asthma. I usually ride with my inhaler in my back pocket but that day I forgot it in the car. So I shut it down at the 26th minute. Prior to though, I did put in big effort to change and start and break with 3 others, we had maybe 5 secs on the field. Then 5 others joined and us while I was putting in a pull at the front. I look back and see the field charging so I pull off the front and let the others work up. After this lap and half up front I was pretty tired and just sat in after that to recover but could never really settled back down. I've got 2 weeks of work in Vegas before moving back to St. Louis and hopefully being ready for the Webster Groves Crit.

Finally got out

2008-05-22T21:30:00.000-07:00

Got back on bike for first time since the 70 miles on Sunday. Weather has kept me off all this week except for today. I got out for 30 mins today, just wanted to get the legs going again, it was still kind of windy so I didnt want to suffer through a ride with the wind. Goal is to get out tomorrow weather depending and get bike ready to head up to L.A Saturday afternoon. We're heading to a CARDS game Sunday, they are playing the Dodgers. Monday is when I line it up in Long Beach for a criterium that morning.

Hell Bender race recap

2008-05-19T18:43:00.000-07:00

Overall fun race, nice weather, flat and rolling course with one big wall to go up. Field of about 40 lined up for the race. Everyone was together until we hit the wall, and those that could make it up and keep it moving were all apart of a group of about 20. Not sure how close if at all the group that was chasing came to catching to the lead group of which I was in. After the wall the fellows at the front really dropped the hammer. I looked down and at times we were cruising at 30mph. This group again stayed together until the 2nd time up the wall. Here the group of 20 was shattered into bits. I hung on to the first group very briefly only to have my legs seize up, muscles just got really tight like a 'charlie horse' in both my legs. That was it for me, I could only watch the group ride away from me and others pass me by. I rode solo for the last 13 miles to a finishing place of 13th. I thought i would get caught from behind because I wasn't setting a blistering pace just cruising along. I wish had my SPecialized for this race, I just haven't felt at home on the Scott bike I keep in St. Louis. Next race is a criterium a week from today in Long Beach, CA.

HELL BENDER

2008-05-16T06:08:00.000-07:00

Heading back to St. Louis today and then onto Springfield and Rolla. Looking forward to racing at the Hell BEnder Road Race.

See ya

Wagon Wheel Lunch time ride

2008-05-14T20:23:00.001-07:00

I made it out today for my first one of these rides this year. This ride goes out weekly. Today there was a group of 6 or 7. The ride has slight two gradual ascents. On the second ascent I found myself out front and being chased by the group. One guy did catch me before I made it to the turn around point. Two things happened leading up to him catching me, the first my chain fell off. I had to hop off bike and get it back on and when I got back on bike he was one bike length in front me. I caught him and then attacked leaving him at least 7/8 bike lengths behind me and I thought this would be enough to hold him off but he caught and passed me beating me up to the turn around point. The ride is an out back and on the return the group stayed together hammering all the way back in. Pretty fun ride.

new PHOTOS tab see above

2008-05-12T21:27:00.000-07:00

next to the HOME tab on the top of the page, I added a PHOTOS tab. This tab links to all my cycling photos from 2008.

peace

Sunday Post Race Report

2008-05-11T16:36:00.000-07:00

WOW is all I can really say about this race today. 87 guys started I know that many did not finish........I read the race flyer and it said one good climb and then some rollers. This one "good climb" was the back breaker of this race. The race started at a pretty group ridish pace (first sign of trouble), I was wondering why no one was really picking it up. So about 7 miles in the initial climb starts and then it just really NEVER ENDED. Somehow at the start of the climb I found myself way in the back so I started working my up to about 30 and thought this would a good place to sit, then I look back and everyone is falling off. I gave out just before the top and could only watch the wheels in front of me pulling away. Because so many people had fallen off we put together a chase group of about 6 guys and we came within about 200 yards of catching the top 30 but never could close the door and after that I never saw the lead group again. I worked together with this group for much of the 2nd lap until several of them decided to break away from this group (made no sense really at this stage of the race) but ok. I rode solo down the descent for much of it and then a couple guys came from behind and I finished the race with these guys and a few others we caught (same dudes that decided to leave the small group we initially had). No doubt this is the hardest race I have ever done, 62 miles of hurt. After the race I initially I thought I wouldn't ride my bike for a very long time :) Now that I'm settled I will get back to it on Wednesday or so. I will try and find some photos from the race, it was very scenic but between catching my breath and the sun beating me down I could barely take it all in. I saw a guy almost go off one of the cliffs too, now that would have been very bad, we were on the descent and he was to hot into a turn, he had to slam the brakes and go 2 steps over edge. Another side note, I met a guy in the field that was a Shimona rep and he said he had a couple HUB t-shirts from his trips there a few years back.

Race stats:
avg: 20.4 mph
ascent: 3,617 feet of climbing

Pre-RACE ride

2008-05-10T16:31:00.000-07:00

I set out today wanting to spin about 30 miles or so putting out very little effort. Keeping my effort low was no problem but instead of 30 miles I ended up with 48. I got new shoes and a different set of wheels that I will ride in a race for the first time tomorrow so I definitely wanted to feel them out today. Feeling very relaxed and ready to race to tomorrow. WIsh Me luck!! Stay tuned for the race report tomorrow evening.

Tuning UP

2008-05-08T22:21:00.000-07:00

Again in an effort to make it out before the winds came, I was able to take a longer lunch so I could get my ride in today. Today's goal was to ride the 26 miles as if I had to do the loop twice. Most days I just go as hard as I can for the loop but since I will be doing at 62 mile road race on Sunday I thought it would be better to simulate a nice paced looped hopefully similar to what the race will be like. Then again you never know how I race will play out.

Racing in CALi

2008-05-07T19:30:00.000-07:00

First things first I haven't been on my bike since Sunday. I have been feeling pretty fatigued the past few days. I wanted to get some miles in today but the wind was gusting at 33 mph. I can hopefully get back out manana to freshen the legs up.

As for the race, I signed up for a race in Bakersfield, CA this Sunday. Definitely last minute as far as me being mentally ready. I think I have gotten in enough miles to be able to put up a fight. The race is 62 miles with 1,669 ft of elevation gain. I'm very nervous to say the least about lining the bike up this Sunday. A lot going on in my head.......what wheel to follow, what break to be in, what break to let go, should I make a move, etc etc. Goal I guess will just be to let my race come to me and see what happens.

This is a video preview of the course of Sundays race

I'm also thinking about doing a Crit in Long Beach on Memorial Day, more on that to come once I'm registered.

Also, I picked up some wheel bling from a former Big Shark racer that has moved out East to PHilly. I'm hoping to have them for the race on Sunday.

Long Rides

2008-05-04T21:07:00.000-07:00

Put in 57 miles today on the bike. Felt pretty tired most of ride though, definitely feel the need for a day or two off to let the legs recover. Over the past two days I've done longer rides in prepartion for a road race that is 70 miles. I feel pretty good with where I'm at now. On the last ascent today Larry (guy I was riding with)surged alittle to get up to the top, I was really laboring leading up to this, but I was able to hold his wheel no problem.

Peace

IRONMAN

2008-05-03T23:12:00.000-07:00

Rode 63 miles today, with 4,228 feet of elevation gain. Felt pretty good on the climbs, just worked on pushing alittle and then recovering. Focusing on possibly being ready for a road race here in the coming weeks, with what I hear there are a few short hills on the course.

Unrelated but tonight we went and saw Ironman. I usually don't dig scientific/comic book movies but this was actually not to bad. One thing I dont like is how all movies feel the need for a sequel.....if this movie does well at the box I'm sure the sequel will soon follow.

Thursday RIDE

2008-05-01T22:21:00.001-07:00

Winds stayed down and I was able to get in the 26 mile loop. Time was 1:16:17. My new best time for the loop is 1:15:22 which I did last Thursday prior to the Tour of St.Louis. I'm thinking I can keep knocking more time off, the biggest area I can gain or make time up on is on the back stretch but it usually happens that the wind is blowing on that side of the course just enough to throw things off. Tonight what I did notice was the difference between riding a carbon wheel and the a regular wheel without a dish on it. I deeper dish wheel is definitely an advantage for time trials and really just carrying speed. I would bet if I had these wheels for the time trial in St. Louis I would have shaved a few seconds off my time along with carrying a faster average for the 9 miles.

Tour of St. Louis wrap up and todays ride

2008-04-28T20:15:00.000-07:00

It was great being home and seeing all the The Hub riders out in full force over the weekend. Not to mention the new faces of Hub riders I met over the weekend. I do not feel like going into detail about the races but the quick and dirty is I'm in shape and rode strong on both days. Big thing I need to work on is last lap positioning and staying patient. Sunday I tried leading out Bryan but I exploded a little bit to soon. Bryan still managed to get 7th place though. I'm very excited now to get back to StL so I can race more frequently because this weekend really definitely reignited the flame in me. Not sure what race I'll be back for in May but I can tell you I'm counting down the days and training that much harder to come back and be that much stronger.

For the ride today I thought I would just cruise around town but with the weather being a pleasant 87 degrees I put a nice ride in with a moderate climb. I did notice some differences when I returned to my bike here. My SCOTT in StL has a longer stem thus stretching me out more. I'm going to shorten the stem on the Scott because I like being a bit more compact on the bike.

Ready...... set..... Go

2008-04-24T11:58:00.000-07:00

Getting ready to head back St. Louis and fortunately the winds were in my favor this morning as I was able to get 26 miles in before I head up to LAX. I beat my previous time by a minute, plus. I don't have time to look at any data but I definitely felt good today. We'll see that I can do this weekend. I'm really excited for the Time Trial. I've never done one but with my current training it would seem I should put a good number. Meet Me in St. LOUIE!!!

Lunch time Rolling

2008-04-21T19:18:00.000-07:00

In an effort to beat the wind if you will I decided to ride at lunch instead of when I got off work because the winds tend to pick up as the day goes on here. My theory almost proved true but I still head a pretty nice head wind much of the ride. It wasn't terribly bad but boy what would I give for a ride with ZERO wind. Overall though it was a very good ride, I beat the Virtual me on the Garmin by a few seconds. So that was a good accomplishment for the day, I was starting to think I couldn't beat that time. I would like to get one more ride in before I fly back to St.Louis. I may try the lunch time "Wagon Wheel" ride here on Wednesday. It's a 21 mile let it all hang out ride that people do here weekly. I have yet to do it this year, but last year when I did do this ride I was spit off back after the first ascent. We'll see though, have to make sure I can leave work for a few hours first.

Weather man was right

2008-04-20T18:48:00.001-07:00

Weather man called for wind gusting 25-35 mph and that is exactly what it has been doing the past 2 days. He's calling for winds 10-20mph for the next few days. I should be able to get out in that. Plan on getting at least one more ride here before I return to StL for the Tour of St.Louis.

The Ride

2008-04-18T19:59:00.001-07:00

Rode the usual 26 mile loop. Nice but really just to windy. I mean I guess I'd rather have 75 degrees and windy versus rainy weather but I really am tired of riding in the wind. Only for a few miles was the wind not a factor today. This was also the second ride on the new wheels. On the ascent out I again felt like the wheels were a definite disadvantage, but on the flats where the wind was not pounding me I could feel the advantage of them. Forecast is calling for 25-35 mph winds the rest of the weekend so I will probably hit the trainer.

The maiden Voyage

2008-04-16T19:17:00.000-07:00

It has been windy here the past 2 days, so much that I wouldn't think of riding a bike. Today the winds died down enough that I took my new wheels on there maiden voyage. I got them yesterday and took them to the shop so they could put my cassette and the new hub on. Once that was done I struggled at putting my tires and tubes on. Really caught me off guard at how much I struggled to get them both on. So by the time I was ready to ride I wasn't in the best of moods. One other thing is putting air in them is not elementary either. Finally set out on the ride and could immediately notice how stiff the wheels are. Going up the ascent I felt like I was riding with bricks on each wheel, so no climbing benefit for me. The wheels performed well though on the flats and once spun up it was easy keeping the speed up. I use speed loosely speaking because on the entire ride I had a headwind which didn't make for a pleasant ride. I was around 3 minutes off my best time on the loop, so the pursuit to beat that time is still on.

Wheels:
2007 Spinergy Stealth SS
1699g per set
black/white spokes

Fifty Plus, on Sunday

2008-04-13T18:33:00.000-07:00

Today met up at the Sho N Go ride. Road 58.64 miles and a total of 2,105 feet of climbing. I did get dropped briefly on one of the final climbs, I wasn't exactly at bonking point but I knew we still had 20 miles left and wanted have something left for rest of the ride.

My new wheels should be here sometime this week!!! They had a campy hub in them so I ordered a Shimano compatible hub from Spinergy that arrived last Thursday. So once the wheels arrive I'll have that swapped out and then I'm rolling. stay tuned

Saturday on the Slopes

2008-04-12T21:41:00.001-07:00

Spent today skiing at Mammoth Mountain. Riding the bike manana.

Thursday rolling

2008-04-10T20:54:00.001-07:00

Set out on the usual 26 mile ride. Not to much wind today. I used the virtual partner again to race against the virtual me. I didn't feel like a had much for the ascent out so the virtual me left me in the dust. For the most of the ride I couldn't see the virtual me (VM). Finally I brought the VM back into site and managed to come pretty close to beating the VM. Although I felt weak on the climb I was able to make up time on the flats by just staying at a steady pace. All in all not a bad ride and only 55 secs off my other time.

GO OUT and VOTE!!!!!!

2008-04-09T21:47:00.000-07:00

Ok so I'm not talking about the upcoming Presidential race folks. I'm talking about the Miss USA pageant coming up this weekend April 11 in Las Vegas. Now why would I care about some silly pageant, for the most part I still don't, but I did have the opportunity to meet our very own Miss Missouri. I was in Vegas Monday and stopped at the Planet Hollywood Hotel & Casino for lunch on the buffet. Can you guess where all 50 contestants grabbed there food from on the buffet, for those of you that answered the salad bar you are correct. Pretty amazing 50 women all eating salads and fruit when there were so many other foods to choose from. Guess with the swimsuit competition right around the corner, everyone was playing it extremely safe.

As for the ride today. Well I had been off the bike for about a week due to the vacation so I didn't want to press hard, only wanted to stretch the legs. Started out up the ascent and another cyclist turned out behind me about 100 yards back, got the feeling he was trying to catch me so goal was just not let him catch me. That was successful, next task I notice someone about 400 yards in front me,goal was to catch that guy and then really just relax the rest of the ride. I caught and past this guy then got caught in miserable head wind. Took my time by choice and cause I couldn't go much faster anyway riding into the headwind. I make my turn for the next flat 8 mile stretch and what do you know there was no wind. Seems like the legs had a mind of there own because before you know it I was cruising around between 25-30 mph. I can never usually hold that speed for to long but to my surprise I had alot in me and the speed was not tapering off....cruising at 30 mph I see 2 cyclist in front of me, one on some road bike with mountain bike handle bars and the other on a road bike. I blow past them and the guy on the normal road bike grabs my wheel and tries hanging....Not looking back at all after about 200 yards of holding my wheel he retired. When I noticed the guys shadow it definitely gave the legs some extra life even though they were already alive and moving. With that said I'm very happy with this 8 mile stretch where I was able to keep the speed at or above 25 mph.