Yes that's right, believe it or not, Nicole Cooke, 2008 Olympic and World road champ, on a mountain bike, belting along the Yarra trails with the local motley crue.
Ya don't get that every day... and yes she hooks along on the fat tyres very tidily indeed.
Wow.
And apparently yawl get to see her form at the Kona this weekend too.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Dirt crits
A healthy and formidable turn out last night for the half hour of fat tyre power.
20 or so riders funnelled into the tight single track. Ben was on fire. Great to see a couple of chix.
And an honourable mention to dirt crit virgin Jim who jumped in on the Shogun,
without hesitation, and has vowed to be back for more.
1st Ben R
2nd Russ C
3rd Shaun H
7th for me
Next in 2 weeks
20 or so riders funnelled into the tight single track. Ben was on fire. Great to see a couple of chix.
And an honourable mention to dirt crit virgin Jim who jumped in on the Shogun,
without hesitation, and has vowed to be back for more.
1st Ben R
2nd Russ C
3rd Shaun H
7th for me
Next in 2 weeks
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Gravity 12hour - raced and WON!!!
Yep, that's right, the 'Emergency Merkin' team of Tim and I slogged it out in the heat to eventually win by 8mins in the male pairs category and possibly more impressively, 5th place overall against the more widely resourced teams of 3 and 4 riders (and much younger ones also).
A couple of laps pre-race roll around the 10.8k (by my GPS measurement) circuit revealed the same familiar course but sporting the effects of a bushfire some 8 months before. Burnt out bridges, black ash in the dust, more exposed to the sun through lack of foliage and quite a bit of loose gravel on the usual well packed surface. 'Sketchy', I thought, and it was but the track soon packed down.
I got a bad start in the run with the majority of riders in front of me, so I just sat in until I could overtake. Tim took over and showed that we were here to race! by belting out a quick first lap. We tagged each other for the next 12 hours with barely a "nice work", time gaps and "GO!!!" spoken between us for the period. About half way through the day I followed our category leader, the strong Brad Davies, for a lap and eventually we overtook his team and slowly extended the gap.
Tim rode like a pro, the best I've seen him and my times were pretty consistent all day.
We were glad to see the sun disappear for a couple of cooler laps at the end of the day.
Both shelled by the end, but elated at pulling the win.
I couldn't have done it without Torq products to fuel me all day, no cramps, no flat spots and no bonking.
Great race on a great course as usual.
Well done to all of the 600 or so competitors.
Well done to The Spin Room boys on winning their category.
Thanks Tim.
Mountain biking, as much as it takes out of me and hurts at times, I just fucking love it!!! (der...)
A couple of laps pre-race roll around the 10.8k (by my GPS measurement) circuit revealed the same familiar course but sporting the effects of a bushfire some 8 months before. Burnt out bridges, black ash in the dust, more exposed to the sun through lack of foliage and quite a bit of loose gravel on the usual well packed surface. 'Sketchy', I thought, and it was but the track soon packed down.
I got a bad start in the run with the majority of riders in front of me, so I just sat in until I could overtake. Tim took over and showed that we were here to race! by belting out a quick first lap. We tagged each other for the next 12 hours with barely a "nice work", time gaps and "GO!!!" spoken between us for the period. About half way through the day I followed our category leader, the strong Brad Davies, for a lap and eventually we overtook his team and slowly extended the gap.
Tim rode like a pro, the best I've seen him and my times were pretty consistent all day.
We were glad to see the sun disappear for a couple of cooler laps at the end of the day.
Both shelled by the end, but elated at pulling the win.
I couldn't have done it without Torq products to fuel me all day, no cramps, no flat spots and no bonking.
Great race on a great course as usual.
Well done to all of the 600 or so competitors.
Well done to The Spin Room boys on winning their category.
Thanks Tim.
Mountain biking, as much as it takes out of me and hurts at times, I just fucking love it!!! (der...)
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Gravity 12 hour - this weekend
After whipping around in the erratic B grade, Kew Blvd, crit last night, there will be no more hard efforts before the Gravity kicks off this Saturday at 9am.
Tim and I are set to take it on as a pair (of idiots), which will no doubt take it's toll by the races end, some time after 9pm that evening.
The weather is expected to be, well... perfect!
Consistant, quick laps that are faster than last years consistant quick laps, is the aim.
A great event on a course I could ride with my eyes closed after having done the last 6 or so years.
Good luck to all, stay upright ay!
Sunday will see a trip over to Bright to ride to Mt Hotham return.
Recovery? I think not.
There's time to recover next week...
Tim and I are set to take it on as a pair (of idiots), which will no doubt take it's toll by the races end, some time after 9pm that evening.
The weather is expected to be, well... perfect!
Consistant, quick laps that are faster than last years consistant quick laps, is the aim.
A great event on a course I could ride with my eyes closed after having done the last 6 or so years.
Good luck to all, stay upright ay!
Sunday will see a trip over to Bright to ride to Mt Hotham return.
Recovery? I think not.
There's time to recover next week...
Friday, October 30, 2009
Functional Threshold Power test - complete
Why did I feel more nervous about doing this test than racing?
*#^! knows?
It was warm, it was on the trainer, I hadn't done one before, no one else home, was I gunna pass out on a max effort? Why worry? It's just a 'simple test' isn't it?
After following the protocol to the letter/number for warm up, it was BANG! power down!
5mins - yeah, ok
10mins - what only half way?
15mins - ouch, hang in there, whoa feeling a bit...dizzy
20mins - power off, thank ^$*! for that!
That's why I was a bit nervous, scared even, as I won't give up until the task is complete. (maybe that's the problem)
Testardo (stubborn).
Anyways 1st one over, I'll know what I'm in for next time at least.
Does that help? Hmmm...
FTP result? A little better after a month of coaching. I'll wait for Jen's feedback though.
Thanks Jen. I'll get there (damn it!)
The great thing is... I just feeel good on the bike and enjoying it at the moment, MTB and road.
Crits on Sunday, St Kilda or Glenvale.
Gravity 12hour the following w/end, bring it on!
*#^! knows?
It was warm, it was on the trainer, I hadn't done one before, no one else home, was I gunna pass out on a max effort? Why worry? It's just a 'simple test' isn't it?
After following the protocol to the letter/number for warm up, it was BANG! power down!
5mins - yeah, ok
10mins - what only half way?
15mins - ouch, hang in there, whoa feeling a bit...dizzy
20mins - power off, thank ^$*! for that!
That's why I was a bit nervous, scared even, as I won't give up until the task is complete. (maybe that's the problem)
Testardo (stubborn).
Anyways 1st one over, I'll know what I'm in for next time at least.
Does that help? Hmmm...
FTP result? A little better after a month of coaching. I'll wait for Jen's feedback though.
Thanks Jen. I'll get there (damn it!)
The great thing is... I just feeel good on the bike and enjoying it at the moment, MTB and road.
Crits on Sunday, St Kilda or Glenvale.
Gravity 12hour the following w/end, bring it on!
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Recovery week
Taking it easy this week with a self administered (max. effort) fitness test at some stage.
Arrrgh...
Arrrgh...
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Triggers out and Gripshift in
Good riddance to the 3x9 Sram triggers I have been using for the past 3 months and welcome back to the trusty 2x9 set-up with Gripshift.
Don't get me started.
Thanks James @ Spoke(n) for the switch back.
Don't get me started.
Thanks James @ Spoke(n) for the switch back.
Surfcoast 6Hr - wash up
The brothers Kellett teamed up for the first time ever, to ride a pretty consistent race to finish 4th in male pairs and 8th overall. The Anglesea scout camp course and the conditions were excellent. We were beaten by the Apollo and Felt teams who won the the event overall but considering the lack of training that brother Dean does, he rode an awesome one, albeit on a course he's familiar with. Top work Deano! I had a great race too and am feeling good on the bike at the moment. I think Jen's coaching is certainly doing the trick and looking forward to taking some good form into the Gravity in a couple of weeks.
Result: 4th (male pairs)
Over and out now for a recovery spin and giggle around Torquers.
Result: 4th (male pairs)
Over and out now for a recovery spin and giggle around Torquers.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Flat Hill Dirt Crits - Tuesday hitouts in Ivanhoe
Daylight savings fires up a lot o things and one that I've been really hanging out for is the Tuesday dirt crits. I missed the first but rode this Tuesday with a dozen turning out including a few quick young stars, MTB hardmen and I.
The course was run in reverse, no problem (apart from the hole at the top of the small pinch). After 30 minutes of racing I ended up 3rd behind some Van Der Ploeg bloke
and Matt. I'm happy with that but will still try and hunt down (or stay with) the young guns a bit longer next time...
1st Paul,
2nd Matt,
3rd me!
Dirt crits again in 3 weeks...
The course was run in reverse, no problem (apart from the hole at the top of the small pinch). After 30 minutes of racing I ended up 3rd behind some Van Der Ploeg bloke
and Matt. I'm happy with that but will still try and hunt down (or stay with) the young guns a bit longer next time...
1st Paul,
2nd Matt,
3rd me!
Dirt crits again in 3 weeks...
Jayco Hun Tour - Lygon St support crits
The chance to race with a great bunch of blokes on Carlton streets (closed to traffic) in front of a bit of a crowd was just too much to pass up. Ben at The Power Tool Specialists in Carlton and Sam at The Spin Room invited me to join their motley crue to try and win our Masters B grade race, and that we did! After spending half the race on (and off) the front of the bunch, I tried my best to lead the team into the sprint by burying myself on the last lap. It worked and Ben came away with the win, and the cash!!!
Great fun on a great street circuit that suited me with 3 hairpin corners and 2 fast left handers. A bit sketchy when the we had the light shower and my back rubber slid a few inches sideways on a fast corner, but great fun.
Again next year? You betcha!
Friday, September 25, 2009
Marathon Champs 2009
Hmmm...
I've had better races but was still pleased I stuck it out to finish despite chronic back pain after about 20k into the race. Don't know what triggered it, maybe even trying to move my weighty Kurt Kinetic trainer around at home with disregard to my delicate back, doh!. So to be able to battle on through the race meant getting off the bike every 15 or so k's to do a yoga session on the side of the track. It's not great for you're race time though. And it showed in my 5hrs51min race time. Disappointing.
All the masters of the masters category were there, Wornes, John, McColl, McCrory, Williams and me ol' (friendly) nemesis McGrath. The start was off, as expected, to a solid pace on the undulating fire road. As I kept telling myself to start a little slower, ride my own pace and finish faster for a change, I let go of the lead group a bit.
But after the slippery in places, paddock section the ol' back started to come back to haunt me.
The course was much better than last years with much more single track and less frickn bitumen. Always good for a MTB race. A gold stamp to the organisers for this years course.
Ride, pain, more pain, stretch, repeat, repeat, repeat. (excuses, excuses, excuses)
13th place in Masters - grrrrrrr...
Core exercises for me I think.
Oh well, let's move on....
Next?
Gravity 12hr?
I'm comin' to gitcha.
I've had better races but was still pleased I stuck it out to finish despite chronic back pain after about 20k into the race. Don't know what triggered it, maybe even trying to move my weighty Kurt Kinetic trainer around at home with disregard to my delicate back, doh!. So to be able to battle on through the race meant getting off the bike every 15 or so k's to do a yoga session on the side of the track. It's not great for you're race time though. And it showed in my 5hrs51min race time. Disappointing.
All the masters of the masters category were there, Wornes, John, McColl, McCrory, Williams and me ol' (friendly) nemesis McGrath. The start was off, as expected, to a solid pace on the undulating fire road. As I kept telling myself to start a little slower, ride my own pace and finish faster for a change, I let go of the lead group a bit.
But after the slippery in places, paddock section the ol' back started to come back to haunt me.
The course was much better than last years with much more single track and less frickn bitumen. Always good for a MTB race. A gold stamp to the organisers for this years course.
Ride, pain, more pain, stretch, repeat, repeat, repeat. (excuses, excuses, excuses)
13th place in Masters - grrrrrrr...
Core exercises for me I think.
Oh well, let's move on....
Next?
Gravity 12hr?
I'm comin' to gitcha.
MTB worlds
The trip to Canberra to ride and watch the racing was as expected, F*%#@'N GREAT!!!
I just couldn't keep off the bike, so I spent pretty much all day, everyday riding. With some spectating thrown in there.
Those blokes and chicks ride fast at that level, real fast (oh really?).
To watch the two mens XC leaders still belting it out at break neck speed at the end of the race was awesome.
Just fantastic to ride Stroms and Sparrow's without it being a race and with mates for a change.
I could nearly move to the nations capital just for the riding, road and MTB (no really).
Can't be fagged writing anymore detail, just to say the trip was well worth the effort.
I just couldn't keep off the bike, so I spent pretty much all day, everyday riding. With some spectating thrown in there.
Those blokes and chicks ride fast at that level, real fast (oh really?).
To watch the two mens XC leaders still belting it out at break neck speed at the end of the race was awesome.
Just fantastic to ride Stroms and Sparrow's without it being a race and with mates for a change.
I could nearly move to the nations capital just for the riding, road and MTB (no really).
Can't be fagged writing anymore detail, just to say the trip was well worth the effort.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
The test.
It's been a couple of weeks since 'the test' and shall try to remember it as it was.
A 9am Saturday start with Dean (Torq boss), Cam (physiologist) and Jamie (set-up expert) in attendance and after an explanation of the process, a short while to set-up the test bike to my previous bike position they had me getting comfortable with an easy warm up. Easy.
Then mask on, no talking and light resistance applied.... easy.
Take blood for lactate level via pricked finger then increase resistance by 50w, 3 minutes pedaling then repeat, repeat, repeat process until my V02 levels reach their peak then start to drop off. Resistance off, light spin, recover, drink Torq recovery, test completed!
Actually not as painful as I was expecting but no stroll in the park mind you.
The detailed results were forwarded to me, and my new coach Jenni, the next week.
Jen peruses the results and constructs the cunning plan to make me ride faster for longer.
Next I was under the instruction of Jamie to assess/change my current bike/s set-up to create more power, less fatigue and more comfort. First up was my Scott road race bike then the Scapin roadie and finally the Yeti. All bikes are now significantly different to ride and from the riding I have done so far they are more comfortable and I feel somewhat stronger on them. My seat and bars were lifted from my super low euro pro (wank, wank) position and seat moved forward to allow me to power more over the top of my pedal stroke. It so far feels real good!
Now all I have to do is ride it, follow it, eat well, rest well, stay injury free and avoid the pig flu (and any other nasty bugs) and podium here I come..... hopefully.
The process was a wonderful experience and I reckon anyone with enthusiasm about their bikes and racing, at any level, would get a lot out of it.
I certainly did.
A 9am Saturday start with Dean (Torq boss), Cam (physiologist) and Jamie (set-up expert) in attendance and after an explanation of the process, a short while to set-up the test bike to my previous bike position they had me getting comfortable with an easy warm up. Easy.
Then mask on, no talking and light resistance applied.... easy.
Take blood for lactate level via pricked finger then increase resistance by 50w, 3 minutes pedaling then repeat, repeat, repeat process until my V02 levels reach their peak then start to drop off. Resistance off, light spin, recover, drink Torq recovery, test completed!
Actually not as painful as I was expecting but no stroll in the park mind you.
The detailed results were forwarded to me, and my new coach Jenni, the next week.
Jen peruses the results and constructs the cunning plan to make me ride faster for longer.
Next I was under the instruction of Jamie to assess/change my current bike/s set-up to create more power, less fatigue and more comfort. First up was my Scott road race bike then the Scapin roadie and finally the Yeti. All bikes are now significantly different to ride and from the riding I have done so far they are more comfortable and I feel somewhat stronger on them. My seat and bars were lifted from my super low euro pro (wank, wank) position and seat moved forward to allow me to power more over the top of my pedal stroke. It so far feels real good!
Now all I have to do is ride it, follow it, eat well, rest well, stay injury free and avoid the pig flu (and any other nasty bugs) and podium here I come..... hopefully.
The process was a wonderful experience and I reckon anyone with enthusiasm about their bikes and racing, at any level, would get a lot out of it.
I certainly did.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Physiology test (or breaking point) and other stuff
This Saturday morning's bike time will be a little different than usual in as far as I will be undertaking (or suffering) a physiology test and 3D bike fit. (oooo, 3 dimensions)
This will be done with the Torq Australia crew who know a thing or two about elite level cycling, especially MTB. And hopefully they can help me achieve either; a/ Olympic gold, b/ National success or more realistically c/ better results than I get now.
Also with my very limited time to train, I have become extremely interested in training with a coach, training program and power meters to get the most out of the time I do have to train.
So I have arrived at the decision to pretend like, I'm like, a pro n that and have a crack and I'm really looking forward to putting myself under close review.
Am I a slug, a pocket rocket or just extremely average? We'll soon find out ay?
MTB World Champs trip to Canberra is only a week away now, very exciting, beer and bikes, no babes though.
This will be done with the Torq Australia crew who know a thing or two about elite level cycling, especially MTB. And hopefully they can help me achieve either; a/ Olympic gold, b/ National success or more realistically c/ better results than I get now.
Also with my very limited time to train, I have become extremely interested in training with a coach, training program and power meters to get the most out of the time I do have to train.
So I have arrived at the decision to pretend like, I'm like, a pro n that and have a crack and I'm really looking forward to putting myself under close review.
Am I a slug, a pocket rocket or just extremely average? We'll soon find out ay?
MTB World Champs trip to Canberra is only a week away now, very exciting, beer and bikes, no babes though.
Friday, August 14, 2009
The Loop.
3 fun laps of Hans' loop last night in the dark and mud with Cam.
Clockwise, then anti clockwise, 2 tracks in one.
I could enjoy riding that all day.
One day I think I will, soon.
The Yeti loves everything.
I love the Yeti.
Clockwise, then anti clockwise, 2 tracks in one.
I could enjoy riding that all day.
One day I think I will, soon.
The Yeti loves everything.
I love the Yeti.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Spoke(n) Classic + maiden You Yangs roll...
A last moment decision was made to have a crack at the Spoke(n) Classic/Northern combine 100k race .... in A grade.
What???
Oh well I thought I'd be right, maybe not win it or even come close but a goal to survive and learn (Grasshopper) was set. And survive and learn I did. A mix of conservation of energy and work for others where I could. Although I still can't seem to avoid the evil cramp at precicely the wrong time, despite keeping well hydrated with Torq product , resulting in being dropped from my bunch 10k from the end. No matter. Otherwise is was a training exercise and I think I came in 15mins behind the winner. Not too bad in my books for the stage I'm at, at the moment. I enjoyed riding/racing with my Degani/Spoke(n) mates for the first time in a road race. Mal, Tim, JJ, Mark, Jarrod and Simon all rode strongly, top work.
But really, after all that road work, I was looking forward to Sunday at the Yangers with Bruce, JD, Cam Wells, Gez and Jez for a fat tyre adventure on the wonderful trails that make up the network there.
An 8.30am start and 3 hours riding time was perfect and with JD setting a consistant pace most of the time, the legs were tired but ok.
The ASR is such a joy to ride, whatever trails I have used it on so far, I've been stoked with the ride. Perhaps not set-up perfectly yet but the process is underway to get it there. I'll say it again, "...rides like it's on rails" (in a good way).
Onto this weekend.
Starting with the Spoke(n) shop ride on Saturday with maybe an extended roll to Mt Eliza.
Then.
Chase the Sun (round 4)
I have entered to ride solo but will belt out as many laps as I can until I'll have to leave at 12noon to enjoy an afternoon family gathering.
No riding this week thus far but a road session wit Cam Wells to Eltham tonight is on the agenda.
What???
Oh well I thought I'd be right, maybe not win it or even come close but a goal to survive and learn (Grasshopper) was set. And survive and learn I did. A mix of conservation of energy and work for others where I could. Although I still can't seem to avoid the evil cramp at precicely the wrong time, despite keeping well hydrated with Torq product , resulting in being dropped from my bunch 10k from the end. No matter. Otherwise is was a training exercise and I think I came in 15mins behind the winner. Not too bad in my books for the stage I'm at, at the moment. I enjoyed riding/racing with my Degani/Spoke(n) mates for the first time in a road race. Mal, Tim, JJ, Mark, Jarrod and Simon all rode strongly, top work.
But really, after all that road work, I was looking forward to Sunday at the Yangers with Bruce, JD, Cam Wells, Gez and Jez for a fat tyre adventure on the wonderful trails that make up the network there.
An 8.30am start and 3 hours riding time was perfect and with JD setting a consistant pace most of the time, the legs were tired but ok.
The ASR is such a joy to ride, whatever trails I have used it on so far, I've been stoked with the ride. Perhaps not set-up perfectly yet but the process is underway to get it there. I'll say it again, "...rides like it's on rails" (in a good way).
Onto this weekend.
Starting with the Spoke(n) shop ride on Saturday with maybe an extended roll to Mt Eliza.
Then.
Chase the Sun (round 4)
I have entered to ride solo but will belt out as many laps as I can until I'll have to leave at 12noon to enjoy an afternoon family gathering.
No riding this week thus far but a road session wit Cam Wells to Eltham tonight is on the agenda.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Powerful owl TT
I've just discovered round 2 of the Powerful Owl time trial at Bruce's loop is on tomorrow night. I think that will be the first hit out for the Yeti in a race.
Better fit the candles on then ay....
Better fit the candles on then ay....
Molto grazie! Spoke(n)
I'd like to sincerely thank the Spoke(n) crew for their support and supply of my new ride, nice work and it's greatly appreciated. And if you want to experience the joy of a Yeti ride, trust me and put your current ride on ebay or bike exchange or sumfink get your ass into the shop and get one.
It's as easy as that!
Gush, gush, gush...
The Yeti ASRc was rolled out for a 4 hour ride out to Hans' loop yesterday and if the body wasn't telling me to turn and head home to eat, I'd probably still be out there now!
It quite simply must be the greatest MTB riding experience I've ever had, possibly an unfair advantage over those without one or, sex on wheels.
As previous reviews from others who have experienced the ASR, I can confirm it begs to be ridden FAST!!! Feels like it's on rails and all that gush, gush, gush...
My initial concerns about passing up the highend xc hardtail race experience were quickly put to rest. I am happy to carry the extra 1kg or so extra bike weight to bang around on the plushness of a quality dually that the ASR is. The slacker head angle is great and I'm happy to adjust to it from the twitchier set up I was running previously.
I was able to hunt down other riders on the trails with stealth as the bike is, as we all dream of, quiet. No chain slap, no squeaks, no knocks.... love it!!!
But, bikes don't ride themselves (good one), so I'll just have to get myself up to top speed to ride it to it's full potential.
The Yeti ASRcarbon is a 5 star ride (if not better).
I'm like a kid at Crissy at the mo' and all week I'll be dreaming of hitting the Yangers on Sunday to enjoy the great and varied riding out there.
It quite simply must be the greatest MTB riding experience I've ever had, possibly an unfair advantage over those without one or, sex on wheels.
As previous reviews from others who have experienced the ASR, I can confirm it begs to be ridden FAST!!! Feels like it's on rails and all that gush, gush, gush...
My initial concerns about passing up the highend xc hardtail race experience were quickly put to rest. I am happy to carry the extra 1kg or so extra bike weight to bang around on the plushness of a quality dually that the ASR is. The slacker head angle is great and I'm happy to adjust to it from the twitchier set up I was running previously.
I was able to hunt down other riders on the trails with stealth as the bike is, as we all dream of, quiet. No chain slap, no squeaks, no knocks.... love it!!!
But, bikes don't ride themselves (good one), so I'll just have to get myself up to top speed to ride it to it's full potential.
The Yeti ASRcarbon is a 5 star ride (if not better).
I'm like a kid at Crissy at the mo' and all week I'll be dreaming of hitting the Yangers on Sunday to enjoy the great and varied riding out there.
Friday, July 31, 2009
The new ride...
Drum roll please...........
Introducing the Yeti ASRcarbon with Pro kit set-up!
No time to discuss now but will blab on about it after the weekend.
Off to ride now......
There's a pic near the end of this blog, take a deep breath and scroll below.
Introducing the Yeti ASRcarbon with Pro kit set-up!
No time to discuss now but will blab on about it after the weekend.
Off to ride now......
There's a pic near the end of this blog, take a deep breath and scroll below.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Melbourne to Ballarat Classic
All signed up for this 99 year old race (yes it's as old as the Giro pretty much).
It's a handicap and I'll be riding off 16mins (mid way in the field).
Strong northerlies predicted and I'll be doing my best to conserve, conserve, conserve energy, as us smaller blokes must do in the wind.
93 kms of uphill and flat to Ballarat.
Result posted next week.
I'll be telling myself "It's all good training!" and "ya gotta suffer for success" and all sorts of weird and wonderful things en route.
Look'n forward to it.
New Yeti not far away now... WOOHOO!!!
It's a handicap and I'll be riding off 16mins (mid way in the field).
Strong northerlies predicted and I'll be doing my best to conserve, conserve, conserve energy, as us smaller blokes must do in the wind.
93 kms of uphill and flat to Ballarat.
Result posted next week.
I'll be telling myself "It's all good training!" and "ya gotta suffer for success" and all sorts of weird and wonderful things en route.
Look'n forward to it.
New Yeti not far away now... WOOHOO!!!
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
.....and back again.
Big things have happened since last posting to say the least (blogging not being a grand priority. No really.) What with moving house, renovating, blending families harmoniously, falling pregnant, work trips, etc..... WHAT? PREGNANT??? How did that happen? Let's not worry 'bout that then ay. I am extremely excited to be having a baby with the wonderful "Baroness of Pizza", but this is not the place to gush my excitement so I shant.
Also I'm stoked to be now riding for Spoke(n) after a generous offer to jump ship from MBC. I sincerely thank Warren at Melbourne Bicycle Centre for his support over the last 15 months or so, it is greatly appreciated and I still recommend them if your looking for a new ride (with wheels I mean).
The Spoke(n) relationship means the Scott Scale LTD has gone to a new home:-( but a new Yeti ASR Carbon is on the way, hip horray. Can't wait and I will be giving my humble critique when I've given it a good ol' fashioned thrashing!
Training pretty hard at the mo' and feeeeling good after 6-8 weeks off the bike.
Melbourne to Ballarat is in my sights on 18 July, so I'll soon find out just how I'm track'n.
Got that itch goin.....
Itch'n to race.
Also I'm stoked to be now riding for Spoke(n) after a generous offer to jump ship from MBC. I sincerely thank Warren at Melbourne Bicycle Centre for his support over the last 15 months or so, it is greatly appreciated and I still recommend them if your looking for a new ride (with wheels I mean).
The Spoke(n) relationship means the Scott Scale LTD has gone to a new home:-( but a new Yeti ASR Carbon is on the way, hip horray. Can't wait and I will be giving my humble critique when I've given it a good ol' fashioned thrashing!
Training pretty hard at the mo' and feeeeling good after 6-8 weeks off the bike.
Melbourne to Ballarat is in my sights on 18 July, so I'll soon find out just how I'm track'n.
Got that itch goin.....
Itch'n to race.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
The Mont 24 wrap up
What a crack'n weekend of racing and laughs!
The trip up took in such high (and low) lights as The Holbrook Settler, the noisiest motel ever (so no sleep there) and the Coffee at Niagra Cafe in Gundagai (2x *%#'n strong coffee, off me chops was I).
Straight out to the track Friday with a coupla bonding practice laps with 5/6ths of the motley crew that was the 'Optical Illusion' (sans Chris H). The course was seriously the greatest enduro track ever (especially if you don't like the climbing bits of MTBing). At 18km's long our reasonably paced laps took around 55mins, ish. Lighly undulating, well routed, smooth pine forrest floor mostly but not much tech, unless travelling at top speeds.
Blah, blah, blah, Friday night pizza and beer with much bike/race verbal crapola flowing (love it!)
Rain overnight.
Arrival at the track on Saturday was met with a bit of dampness underfoot but a warm-up roll around revealled perfect track conditions.
Tim had a crack'n first lap (including run) and put us right up there and we never looked back. Great to see Malachi back on the fat tyres, let's hope to see more of his experience & smoooth lines on the dirt.
Bruce Dickey was solid and consistent as ever. Cam Wells and Chris Haydon both in great form.
Many laughs were had, many fast laps on an ideal course (the best ever enduro course in my opinion) and the result we were after, finishing a full 3 laps ahead of the competition.
We also would have finished 6th or 7th in open which is a fair effort for a team with an average age of 48. Blah, blah, blah.
I am in for next year.... no doubt at all.
Looking forward to the BMC 100k marathon at Woodend on the 19th April.
Keep peddling! (and breathing)
The trip up took in such high (and low) lights as The Holbrook Settler, the noisiest motel ever (so no sleep there) and the Coffee at Niagra Cafe in Gundagai (2x *%#'n strong coffee, off me chops was I).
Straight out to the track Friday with a coupla bonding practice laps with 5/6ths of the motley crew that was the 'Optical Illusion' (sans Chris H). The course was seriously the greatest enduro track ever (especially if you don't like the climbing bits of MTBing). At 18km's long our reasonably paced laps took around 55mins, ish. Lighly undulating, well routed, smooth pine forrest floor mostly but not much tech, unless travelling at top speeds.
Blah, blah, blah, Friday night pizza and beer with much bike/race verbal crapola flowing (love it!)
Rain overnight.
Arrival at the track on Saturday was met with a bit of dampness underfoot but a warm-up roll around revealled perfect track conditions.
Tim had a crack'n first lap (including run) and put us right up there and we never looked back. Great to see Malachi back on the fat tyres, let's hope to see more of his experience & smoooth lines on the dirt.
Bruce Dickey was solid and consistent as ever. Cam Wells and Chris Haydon both in great form.
Many laughs were had, many fast laps on an ideal course (the best ever enduro course in my opinion) and the result we were after, finishing a full 3 laps ahead of the competition.
We also would have finished 6th or 7th in open which is a fair effort for a team with an average age of 48. Blah, blah, blah.
I am in for next year.... no doubt at all.
Looking forward to the BMC 100k marathon at Woodend on the 19th April.
Keep peddling! (and breathing)
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Ay Up! for the Mont
Just ordered some neu Ay Up! lights for the upcoming Canberra experience. After a bit of tossing around options, the Ay Ups seemed to be the best balance of reliability, function, economy, light weight (for the weight weenie I am) and fuck me, they're 'Astrayan made!!! Ridgey didge, dinky di.
More winter MTB? You bet!
1 week 'til the Mont bus leaves... woohoo!!!
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Change of plan
It was decided by the 'Neenan Eckbo Confederacy' members that a 4.30am rise, 7hrs of driving and a return time of around 9pm for 2hrs of racing per rider was, well...... not on.
So the alternative was a crack'n urban epic Mullum Mullum loop. I had only riden parts of it in the past so following B.Dickey and C.Wells for the route was the call for the day. 80k's of pretty good riding with some excellent flowing sections and a few climbs. Gee the older bloke in the group can hook into that single track better than most, not bad at 58. Post ride, the legs were feeling it (not that good at only 40, harden the fuck up !!!). An bike unrelated highlight was Bruce's spotting of a couple of powerful owls near Heidleberg, them is big intense look'n birds them is.
I'll be out there again to try and retrace the tricky route (since it does come very close to work and the other end is home) but a GPS or Mullum loop experienced rider would help as there is quite a few track switches.
The team is looking strong for Canberra in 2 weeks as I got to ride with 4 of the other 5 riders over the weekend. (even if one M.Moxon is now a roady)
Get out there, the trails are great after a bit of precipitation over the last coupla weeks.
So the alternative was a crack'n urban epic Mullum Mullum loop. I had only riden parts of it in the past so following B.Dickey and C.Wells for the route was the call for the day. 80k's of pretty good riding with some excellent flowing sections and a few climbs. Gee the older bloke in the group can hook into that single track better than most, not bad at 58. Post ride, the legs were feeling it (not that good at only 40, harden the fuck up !!!). An bike unrelated highlight was Bruce's spotting of a couple of powerful owls near Heidleberg, them is big intense look'n birds them is.
I'll be out there again to try and retrace the tricky route (since it does come very close to work and the other end is home) but a GPS or Mullum loop experienced rider would help as there is quite a few track switches.
The team is looking strong for Canberra in 2 weeks as I got to ride with 4 of the other 5 riders over the weekend. (even if one M.Moxon is now a roady)
Get out there, the trails are great after a bit of precipitation over the last coupla weeks.
Monday, March 16, 2009
Mt Beauty 6 hour enduro
2 weeks off the bike??? hardly a break after over-training, but more a result of too many other stuffs going on. Anyway, with an invite to join the star studded (Cam Wells & Bruce Dickey) 'Neenan-Eckbo Confederacy' team for this coming weekends race, I will be turning the legs over again this week in an effort to help propel our mighty team to victory!!! Hopefully.
I always love racing at Mt Beauty and don't mind making the 3.5 hr trip to do so.
My erratic Summer of racing with little training continues.
So I think I'll go out on the fat tyres tonight for a bit of fun and skills honing.
Yay! the Mont is coming up in 3 weeks and our 'ol' fellas' team should be up there to back up our victory in the Scott. Which will prove nothing and only inflate our already healthy egos (wankers).
Roll on...
I always love racing at Mt Beauty and don't mind making the 3.5 hr trip to do so.
My erratic Summer of racing with little training continues.
So I think I'll go out on the fat tyres tonight for a bit of fun and skills honing.
Yay! the Mont is coming up in 3 weeks and our 'ol' fellas' team should be up there to back up our victory in the Scott. Which will prove nothing and only inflate our already healthy egos (wankers).
Roll on...
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Golden Plains - festival of munters
Back in the real world (or is it?) after a fine, leisurely weekend spent with 'the First Lady of Pizza' . Firstly down the coast for a surf and then off to Meredith for tunes n beers.
Saturday night, Black Mountain kicked it off for us and set the bar high, early with their 70's inspired prog rock noise, and harmony. A consistently good You am I show also.
Sunday's highlight for us was The Old Crow Medicine Show, great country/bluegrass fun. The Drones, who I reckon should write a more appropriate 'Astrayan' national anthem, were also rock'n. Gary Numan? well, hmmm, gee Woody, don't know about that one, but it's all about variety I suppose. Good to have a few slurred words (and drinks) late with a couple of blokes who do it best (Max & Wayno, cheeers!).
A slow exit on Monday for an epic car journey to retrieve 'Pickle', getting home way too late.
Back to work...
Saturday night, Black Mountain kicked it off for us and set the bar high, early with their 70's inspired prog rock noise, and harmony. A consistently good You am I show also.
Sunday's highlight for us was The Old Crow Medicine Show, great country/bluegrass fun. The Drones, who I reckon should write a more appropriate 'Astrayan' national anthem, were also rock'n. Gary Numan? well, hmmm, gee Woody, don't know about that one, but it's all about variety I suppose. Good to have a few slurred words (and drinks) late with a couple of blokes who do it best (Max & Wayno, cheeers!).
A slow exit on Monday for an epic car journey to retrieve 'Pickle', getting home way too late.
Back to work...
Friday, March 6, 2009
Golden Shower Festival?
No, I don't think so. It is looking like it will be fine for the 3rd Golden Plains Music Festival, unlike last Decembers MMF which was a mud bath (glad I skipped that one).
Looking forward to soaking up the sounds with the Baroness of Northcote by my side, yeah!!!
With a few must see acts i.e. Mogwai, The Drones, Old Crow Medicine Show, Brant Bjork, You Am I, The Church, Tony Allen, Gary Numan??? and the band I'm bust'n to see live, Black Mountain from Canada, oh joy!!! No doubt there will be some great surprises, as there always is, with the lesser known acts (to me anyway).
So it's a bike free weekend (WHAT!!!) with a surf Saturday morn'n and music n beers for the rest. Looking forward to catching up with many munted mates that I don't get to see that often (what with being bike obsessed, parenting young Pickle and work).
If you're off to Golden Plains, Black Mountain'd be my pick I reckons.
Looking forward to soaking up the sounds with the Baroness of Northcote by my side, yeah!!!
With a few must see acts i.e. Mogwai, The Drones, Old Crow Medicine Show, Brant Bjork, You Am I, The Church, Tony Allen, Gary Numan??? and the band I'm bust'n to see live, Black Mountain from Canada, oh joy!!! No doubt there will be some great surprises, as there always is, with the lesser known acts (to me anyway).
So it's a bike free weekend (WHAT!!!) with a surf Saturday morn'n and music n beers for the rest. Looking forward to catching up with many munted mates that I don't get to see that often (what with being bike obsessed, parenting young Pickle and work).
If you're off to Golden Plains, Black Mountain'd be my pick I reckons.
Monday, March 2, 2009
HHCCC - another great event!!!
Firstly, thanks to Bruce and Steve for another slick event!
Great, well supported route and the weather was ideal (perhaps a lil' smokey but whadaya want?).
I may be actually learning to ride a little more cleverly by not getting sucked into the wrong surges or breaks (I know it's an event, not a race, but seriously, everyone at the pointy end is racing).
Taking it easy and riding tempo for the first 58k stage was the plan and was adhered to, great warm up.
12.30pm saw the start to the Mansfield to Mt Buller stage and the lead bunch rolled out to Merrijig relatively slowly (excellent). The surges and breaks came from there on in. A break of 4 was let go first, then the Sram boys (Rob and Dan) went. I had a crack at Pinacle Valley with no takers and by Changue Rd decided it was pointless and sat back in the bunch. Mirimbah servo was time to go and 3 of us chased. I settled into solid climbing tempo and felt pretty good, catching the Sram boys about half way up. There was no looking back now, no cramps, no dehydration, I crossed the line in 5th place. Gez Mc Hugh apparently not to far behind, and the strong riding Tim Ross also up there, top work chaps.
A quick massage, chat a few buddies, load up with new biddons and back down the mountain at a rate of knots (much to a few riders surprise on their way up) into a bit of a smokey head wind back to Mansfield.
Unfortunately no staying on the mountain this year to ham it up and no Sunday stage as Coco was waiting for her Dad in Melbourne (thanks Nanny Dee).
Again, an event not to be missed!
A no-bike weekend coming up as Golden Plains is next weekend and probably a few waves on Saturday as there should be a pretty solid swell on the way.
Lets hope all goes well and there are no more lives or property loss due to the predicted extreme weather tonight/tomoz. Shit! I'm flying to Sydney in the morning...
Great, well supported route and the weather was ideal (perhaps a lil' smokey but whadaya want?).
I may be actually learning to ride a little more cleverly by not getting sucked into the wrong surges or breaks (I know it's an event, not a race, but seriously, everyone at the pointy end is racing).
Taking it easy and riding tempo for the first 58k stage was the plan and was adhered to, great warm up.
12.30pm saw the start to the Mansfield to Mt Buller stage and the lead bunch rolled out to Merrijig relatively slowly (excellent). The surges and breaks came from there on in. A break of 4 was let go first, then the Sram boys (Rob and Dan) went. I had a crack at Pinacle Valley with no takers and by Changue Rd decided it was pointless and sat back in the bunch. Mirimbah servo was time to go and 3 of us chased. I settled into solid climbing tempo and felt pretty good, catching the Sram boys about half way up. There was no looking back now, no cramps, no dehydration, I crossed the line in 5th place. Gez Mc Hugh apparently not to far behind, and the strong riding Tim Ross also up there, top work chaps.
A quick massage, chat a few buddies, load up with new biddons and back down the mountain at a rate of knots (much to a few riders surprise on their way up) into a bit of a smokey head wind back to Mansfield.
Unfortunately no staying on the mountain this year to ham it up and no Sunday stage as Coco was waiting for her Dad in Melbourne (thanks Nanny Dee).
Again, an event not to be missed!
A no-bike weekend coming up as Golden Plains is next weekend and probably a few waves on Saturday as there should be a pretty solid swell on the way.
Lets hope all goes well and there are no more lives or property loss due to the predicted extreme weather tonight/tomoz. Shit! I'm flying to Sydney in the morning...
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Holden High Country Cycle Challenge
Get on board this one as it is the best run bike event with a great format in the beautiful high country around Mansfield. The 2nd stage from Mansfield to the Mt Buller village, is a good opportunity to put to bed any arguments over who is the strongest climber amongst ya mates.
Saturday night on the mountain is a cracker!
Saturday night on the mountain is a cracker!
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Otway Odyssey - more wash up
Oops! Well done to all the other MMBCC members that raced Tom and Dan McMunn that supported each other and finished together in 103rd and 104th overall. Also Richard Eisner in 339th place, I think that's all. Good work lads!!!
Otway Odyssey - the wash up.
What a buzz it is to be one of 1750 MTBers willing to test themselves on what is a pretty hard day on the bike, no matter what the conditions. I truely marvell at the wide variety of riders and skills that take this one on. Yeah, yeah, there's the elite riders that train for it and finish sub 5 hours but it's also the riders that are average recreational cyclists that can spend 9 or 10 hours out there, I dips me lid to all of ya!
Yes, it wasn't as hard a slog as last year in the mud but still, well..... hard! And what a race of many parts it is, a significant bitumen climb, steep 4wd climbs, fast water rutted descents, sweeet singletrack climbs and descents, sand, just about everything except rocks I suppose.
My race started probably a bit slow (for a change) but probably too slow and lost a bit of time on the initial climbs (ya really gotta train on climbs to blitz the climbs but anyways). The pace was pretty hard from the get go and I decided to hold back and save for the true MTBing, the singletrack. Cramping is not something that usually affects me much but *#%! me, it did on Saturday, from the 35k - 60k I had to nurse the legs through but after the first transition at the 65k mark, it was game on, trying to peg back some riders I wasn't feeling too bad and the caffeine kept me pretty wired. The final 13k section climb seemed to never end and I was weary of going over the bars on the final descent as was the case last year. Not before time, I raced to the end with no idea of time or position, releived. 5hours 51mins 45secs, 71st position overall and 9th in vets catagory. I'm pretty happy with that considering I would be lucky to get 100 -150k's in for a week and certainly haven't been doing any MTB marathon stuff. (...but we've all got our excuses).
Deano Bravo cruised in, all smiles, in 388th posi overall, in a time of 7:31:00, great work bruva considering the bike has taken a distant back seat of late.
Gezza arrived in 238th posi, 6:51:23 after the start, and after throwing down the challenge last year to beat the Kellett boys, ya gunna have to get on the programme now for next years race.
As predicted, Jongers smoked it again, in 4:30:46, confirming that yes he is a robot but I hear he did put on his granny ring for the race (perhaps I should have also, doh!).
Great day, great race, I'll be back next year, well done to all fellow riders, just finishing is a considerable achievement in my books.
Great to have Mum, Dad, Becko, Sassy & Nina Jean there for support, thanks muchly it was greatly appreciated.
Holden High Country Cycle Challenge next Saturday, (it's an event and not a race you know).
Bruce and Steve run a stellar event, get on board the Buller train Saturday arvo and hit the tins on Saturday night, beer and bikes, a match made in heaven. Always love going up to ride with my cycling country cousins (fellow club members), let's just hope for weather under 30degrees.
Yes, it wasn't as hard a slog as last year in the mud but still, well..... hard! And what a race of many parts it is, a significant bitumen climb, steep 4wd climbs, fast water rutted descents, sweeet singletrack climbs and descents, sand, just about everything except rocks I suppose.
My race started probably a bit slow (for a change) but probably too slow and lost a bit of time on the initial climbs (ya really gotta train on climbs to blitz the climbs but anyways). The pace was pretty hard from the get go and I decided to hold back and save for the true MTBing, the singletrack. Cramping is not something that usually affects me much but *#%! me, it did on Saturday, from the 35k - 60k I had to nurse the legs through but after the first transition at the 65k mark, it was game on, trying to peg back some riders I wasn't feeling too bad and the caffeine kept me pretty wired. The final 13k section climb seemed to never end and I was weary of going over the bars on the final descent as was the case last year. Not before time, I raced to the end with no idea of time or position, releived. 5hours 51mins 45secs, 71st position overall and 9th in vets catagory. I'm pretty happy with that considering I would be lucky to get 100 -150k's in for a week and certainly haven't been doing any MTB marathon stuff. (...but we've all got our excuses).
Deano Bravo cruised in, all smiles, in 388th posi overall, in a time of 7:31:00, great work bruva considering the bike has taken a distant back seat of late.
Gezza arrived in 238th posi, 6:51:23 after the start, and after throwing down the challenge last year to beat the Kellett boys, ya gunna have to get on the programme now for next years race.
As predicted, Jongers smoked it again, in 4:30:46, confirming that yes he is a robot but I hear he did put on his granny ring for the race (perhaps I should have also, doh!).
Great day, great race, I'll be back next year, well done to all fellow riders, just finishing is a considerable achievement in my books.
Great to have Mum, Dad, Becko, Sassy & Nina Jean there for support, thanks muchly it was greatly appreciated.
Holden High Country Cycle Challenge next Saturday, (it's an event and not a race you know).
Bruce and Steve run a stellar event, get on board the Buller train Saturday arvo and hit the tins on Saturday night, beer and bikes, a match made in heaven. Always love going up to ride with my cycling country cousins (fellow club members), let's just hope for weather under 30degrees.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Otway Odyssey... again getting on board the train o painnnnn
In 2 days time the heart rate will be up, up and away yet again in what is a cracker of a test of ones mettle. 999 others munters and I will tackle the 100km's of extremely varied terrain of this Otway race and another 750 riders covering shorter distance versions. With a strong drive to perform better than 51st place last year and this year cracking into the 40 - 49yr old bracket, my expectations are high, even though I've probably been training less than last year but we'll just have to see ay.
Deano Bravo is back and has a date with the monster that is the Odyssey after crashing out last year on an extremely slippy descent. Gez has been training hard (lots o secret miles working for Worldtrail me thinks) and has put out the challenge to smash the Kellett lads, good luck with that.
Weather should be spot on, low 20s and possible morning showers. I reckon the winning elite time's gunna be &*%k'n quick, under 5hours me thinks and I just can't see anyone beating Jongers for the honour (and $$$), he's is a robot you know.
Lots to organise still.
Preparation is paramount.
All the best to all competitors.
Look out nemisis (you know who you are)
Deano Bravo is back and has a date with the monster that is the Odyssey after crashing out last year on an extremely slippy descent. Gez has been training hard (lots o secret miles working for Worldtrail me thinks) and has put out the challenge to smash the Kellett lads, good luck with that.
Weather should be spot on, low 20s and possible morning showers. I reckon the winning elite time's gunna be &*%k'n quick, under 5hours me thinks and I just can't see anyone beating Jongers for the honour (and $$$), he's is a robot you know.
Lots to organise still.
Preparation is paramount.
All the best to all competitors.
Look out nemisis (you know who you are)
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